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/tg/ - Traditional Games


PREVIOUS EPISODES: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Ghost+Busters

LAST EPISODE: You turned down a trip to Okinawa.
- - -
"Mom," You say. "It's....it's really good to hear from you. How's Dad?"

"Your father is fine." She says. "Daisuke, we would like it if you came home. We have some issues to talk about, and some matters to arrange."

"I'm not changing my mind." You say. "I'm not apologizing for doing the right thing."

"What's done is done, and the time for that has passed." She sighs. "You need to start to think about the future, both for yourself and the family's."

You frown. "Kaede sent me a strange text. She seems to think that this future involves both of us becoming arranged to be married."

You mother sighs. "Kaede is not your concern."

"She's my sister, I think I'm allowed to be concerned about her!" You snap. "I'm not going to let you make her miserable just because you think that..."

You trail off. You have to. You can hear your mother crying on the other side of the phone.

"Mom...Mom, please." You sigh. "Can we just talk about this first? All of us sitting down at a table, together, for once?"

There's a few rummaging sounds. "Daisuke." It's your grandmother on your mother's side. An elder voice that speaks with steel and years of cigarettes. "You have made your mother cry again."

You hate this woman. You hate BOTH your grandmothers really. As a child, you compared them to monsters. Now, you can now accurately compare their looks to Lovecraftian Toad Gods.
>>
>>34302752
"What do you want?" You snarl through the phone.

"Speak properly to your elders, boy." Grandma says.

"Say your piece and let me get back to my work." You say.

"Disgraceful." You can HEAR the scowl. "You speak to him. I won't have anything to do with this."

Another moment. "Hello Daisuke." Lovely, it's Father's Mother now. You hope Kaede is considering her options, being trapped at home with both of them. Options like jumping out of the window and running. "We've seen you on tv. I'm impressed as to how well you've come back after your mistake."

"I. Did not. Make. A. Mistake." You say slowly and calmly.

"Oh, well, you are mistaken...but let's move on." Granny says. "Your other Grandmother and I have worked very hard, and we've fixed the damage you accidentally caused. Isn't that wonderful?"

"Huh." You say. That's a bit of a surprise. Those two women hate each other. The idea that you finally got them working in harmony is...worrying.

"Now, we've set up for you and your sister to attend a sort of...what do you call it? A Date Cafe." She laughs. "Please be there. It will mean so much to the family, and it'll make things much easier for Kaede. It's not fair to place all the burden upon her, yes?"

> "Granny...why don't you and Grandma go and (CONTENT REDACTED)
> Hang up
> "Fine...where is the place?"
> Other
>>
>>34302762
>"Fine...where is the place?"

We might hate the idea, but we need to do what we can to make things easier on Kaede.
>>
>>34302762
>"Fine...where is the place?"
The contractual obligations of an omiai gives final say to the two participants; either one can reject the pairing with no loss of face.

Also, with the Registry, GBJ has an unprecedented opportunity.
P-COC, and by extension the entire field of paranormal extermination, now has LEGAL backing from the Diet and the cultural force of Imperial Decree. Anyone tries to call us conmen, we shut them down with the P-COC being an international agency with the full backing of the government of Japan and the Emperor, and the P-COC recognizing the Ghostbusters as a paranormal tactical response corporation.
>>
Question for players who have more in-depth knowledge of the Ghostbusters canon (because I haven't finished the game yet, and I haven't read the comics): how well-known and widespread is P-COC and the supernatural?
I mean, we had a giant Stay-Puft Marshmellow Man go Godzilla on New York City, not once, but TWICE.
Wouldn't skeptics of the paranormal, at this point, be treated more like Moon Landing Deniers and other conspiracy theorists?
>>
> "Fine...where is the place?"
Get there, convince Kaede to join us or otherwise run, gtfo.
>>
>Whatever you two are planning. I can wait very patiently for you two to finally kick it from old age and free everyone from your everything mongering. YOUR influence and being stuck between her children and your gerrymandering and manipulations is the reason my mother is crying. She's trapped by you because she doesn't know how not to play your games. All you have is your little leverages and tricks, which for a long damn time I have been immune to. Say your peace, say it clearly, and I will give your my answer and my terms.

of

>Fine...where is the place
>>
>>34302943
>>34303009
"Fine...where is the place?" You ask.

Granny gives you the address and the time you have to be there. It's tomorrow.

You hang up, and then see the others all looking at you.

You sigh. "My grandmothers are making Kaede and I go to a group date thing tomorrow so we can get arranged marriages and secure the family."

You aren't sure what you were expecting.

It certainly wasn't laughter.

Sachiko is actually on the ground, looking like she's having trouble breathing.

"It's not that funny." You say.

"It kind of is." Star says. "I mean, oh my god, lets look at the facts, you live in a dumpling factory, your friends with monsters and ghosts, your job involves getting slimes on a regular basis, and you're a stubborn asshole with so-so looks."

"Gee. Thanks." You say, flipping your partner off.

Star laughs and waves her hand. "And it's why we love you, like for sure. But stop wigging out, you just need to tell the truth and any girl will, like, totally flee."

"I'm a little afraid of that, actually." You say. "Mostly I'm worried about Kaede."

"Oooh, add Sister-Complex to the list as well!" Sachiko cackles.

"I hate you all, SO much." You mutter.
>>
>>34303820
"Do you want us to come with you?" Sato asks. "As the ancients say, A man who's soul bleeds with others feels no blush in his heart...or something like that."

"As much as I like the idea of humiliating Daisuke," Akira says. "Shouldn't the rest of us check out that maid cafe with the man-eating plants?"

"It isn't like they're gonna move." Star says. "They're, like, plants."

"I dunno, YOUR plant moved." Akira says. "And we know that they know that we know. And no, I'm not saying that we should go in with flame throwers, but the sooner we secure and identify the site the better."

He's got a point.

Still...the idea of your Grandmothers having to deal with your friends is one you relish.

> Sure, the more the merrier. Come meet my loathsome grandmothers and maybe if we're lucky the place will burn to the ground.
> Nah. If you guys come it'll be worse on me and Kaede, my grandmothers are vile people. Best we face them on our own and spare others their wrath. Go check out the maid cafe, and call me if things get hairy.
> Eh, if we go to the cafe early in the morning I can maybe make the appointment later in the day. Big deal if I'm late...screw the old hags.
> Other
>>
>>34303820
>add Sister-Complex to the list as well!
Daisuke really doesn't have a retort for that, does he.

>>34303854
> Nah. If you guys come it'll be worse on me and Kaede, my grandmothers are vile people. Best we face them on our own and spare others their wrath. Go check out the maid cafe, and call me if things get hairy.
And don't forget to pack a PKE Meter and a pair of ecto-goggles, just in case our omiai counterpart happens to be non-human.
>>
>"Kaede sent me a strange text. She seems to think that this future involves both of us becoming arranged to be married."
Wait, did this happen in a previous game or was this just revealved today?

>>34303168
I wouldn't call it Moon Landing deniers, but yes we are somewhat well known though in game there is still room for doubt that Daisuke considered us "con-artists".

Because it is always easy to doubt what you see on television as smoke and mirrors.

That said, the more and more these events occur, and the more governments and scientists take part, there is increasingly less room for doubt, as "if they were con-artists why is our government believing them?"
>>
>>34304009
And what about turning the Statue of Liberty into a Gundam to break Vigo's slime shell?
Are we going to dismiss the eyewitness and photographic evidence?
>>
I'm considering the ramifications of us being late, as well as the pro's and con's of bringing "backup" and just who that backup should or should not be.

I have a feeling we ought not to get our friends involved in our personal life,

However, I also feel that it would be a good thing if we went to the cafe ourselves and monitored the situation
>>
>>34304163
People dismiss the holocaust and there are plenty of eye-witnesses and photographic evidence for that as well.
>>
>>34303854
>> Sure, the more the merrier. Come meet my loathsome grandmothers and maybe if we're lucky the place will burn to the ground.

Is this the place that the plant girl asked us to go to?
>>
>>34303854
> Other
Why don't we go to this Cafe today and right now? So we'd know if there are legitimate reasons we shouldn't be able to make it tomorrow?

If people are DYING, this really should be considered and emergency and shouldn't wait even a moment.
>>
>>34303854
>other
The team can do research in the morning, Daisuke goes to the date, then everyone goes to the maid cafe after.
No need to be late for our appointment and we can still investigate the cafe in the evening.
>>
>>34304222
I like this plan. I second this plan.
>>
>>34304222
>>34304275
Someone could be killed and eaten in the span of this morning to the afternoon, would it be so wrong to put the cafe on lockdown and quarantine the cafe workers until we can conduct a thorough investigation?
>>
>>34304216
>Is this the place that the plant girl asked us to go to?
No, it's in a different area of Tokyo all together.

As for the deniers...well...most people buy 'swamp gas' explanations that the press or law enforcement come up with when they have no clue as to what's going on. Those that believe, believe, those that don't don't. There are a lot of dinner table arguments over the issue. One of the issues is that Dr. Spengler's explanation of PKE is so mind numbingly boring that people just glaze over the accurate rational explanation.

Ghostbusters don't really concern themselves with it. People can believe or not, as long as they call and pay for services rendered, they can think it's swamp gas all they want.
>>
>>34304296
That said, if we recieve word of actual lethal and killer ghosts or entities, placing the area on lockdown and quarantining the potential anomaly does sound like something out of both GB and PCOC protocol.
>>
>>34304304
So some people think the Registration Act is just a piece of pork barrel legislation?
>>
>>34304222
I'll go with this, because at least it is reasonable. I would have liked to use our authority to lock down the cafe right away though, but this works.
>>
>>34304222
You groan. "Let's do the paperwork and research first. Then I'll go get rejected on my date, and we can all raid the cafe in the evening."

It's a good plan. Sachiko bids you all farewell, as she has her own duties to attend to. (You have a sneaking suspicion that it either involves a futile effort to beat Sana in fighting games, or going out with Kali as a 'Vampire Hunter' again.)

"So," Star says. "I'll check out the cafe. Akihabara, medieval theme, grove in the middle. Shouldn't be too hard to find."

"I'll check the database for plant creatures." Akira says. "See if there's any that fit what we've seen that have feeding habits."

"Guess that leaves me on tech." Sato says with a big grin. "Spores, sap, vines, plenty of stuff to get ready for. Should be able to cobble some stuff up."

> Help Star
> Help Akira
> Help Sato
> Other
>>
>>34304304
Bringing up something that was hinted at in previous threads, how are intelligence agencies and militaries reacting to controllable, repeatable magic?
The assassination and spying potential of paranormal agents is immense; would agencies really be held back by skepticism?
Are we going to experience cameo appearances by the Laundry?
>>
>>34304548
>Bringing up something that was hinted at in previous threads, how are intelligence agencies and militaries reacting to controllable, repeatable magic?
>The assassination and spying potential of paranormal agents is immense; would agencies really be held back by skepticism?
Who says our Governments haven't already been engaged in magic since the get go?

The russians had Rasputin, the Nazi's their occult, the Americans seemed very concerned on reigning in state shinto after the war.
>>
>>34304539
> Help Sato
Respirators, goggles, heavy-duty gloves.
Maybe some home-made flamethrowers as close-in protection/interrogation tools.
>>
>>34304539
> Help Star
Remember the buddy system.
>>
>>34304539
>Help Sato
>>
>>34304539
> Help Star
>>
File: MassContainmentField02.jpg (128 KB, 593x458)
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>>34304589
We should have some actual biohazard suits somewhere.

As for the second, we do have the meson collider as a last resort disintegration weapon.

I suggest we bring along a Mass Containment field generator, so we'd be able to hold down these plant people in a forcefield if need be.
http://ghostbusters.wikia.com/wiki/Mass_Containment_Field
>>
>>34303854
>> Sure, the more the merrier. Come meet my loathsome grandmothers and maybe if we're lucky the place will burn to the ground.
At least bring Sachiko, so we can flirt with her.
>>
>>34304539
> Help Star
Let's make sure she doesn't get herself tangled up in anything as hot as that might be
>>
>>34304539
>> Other
"Help" Sachiko.
>>
>>34304614
>>34304640
>>34304858

"I'm with you Star." You say.

There are a lot of maid cafes in Akihabara, an a lot of niche ones as well.

"Think we'll be able to close this place?" Star asks as she slowly goes through the search hits.

"Don't see why not." You say.

"Well, we only have the say so of one person." Star says. "We're calling up, or showing up, in front of their place screaming about how they need to shut their business down. They might take exception."

You nod. "True."

"You have any plans on how to deal with your upcoming nuptials?" Star asks with a grin.

"Hang on." You say.

> Roll 1d12
>>
Rolled 3 (1d12)

>>34305002
Come on Youkai Date!
>>
>>34304539
I'd say Star, if only because traveling alone should be avoided whenever possible.
>>
Rolled 6 (1d12)

>>34305002
>>
Rolled 12 (1d12)

>>34305002
rolling
>>
Rolled 1 (1d12)

>>34305002
Against better judgement, here I roll.
>>
>>34305002
C'mon, no whammies.
>>
>>34305020
>>34305063
>>34305066
Oh boy, we're in luck. Lucky number 3, AND a nat12, oh and don't forget 6 and 12's are multiples of three even if that doesn't matter.
>>
>>34305086
email field.
>>
>>34305107
I know, I was jumping between threads and wasn't paying attention.
>>
>>34305020
>>34305066
"Not only do I have a plan, I have the BEST plan!"
>>
>>34305020
"Jackpot!" You say. "Guinevere's. Got a picture too."

The girl dress up in ladies-in-waiting costumes, the chairs are all made up to look like thrones, fake wood tables...and a 'magical grove' in the center. A table of crystal, white spindly looking 'fairy' chairs, and a large tree dominates the area that's covered in flowers, vines and other cheery looking plant life. There's a large puckered slit in the tree as well.

"That's probably where they keep their victims." Star says. "Go ahead, make the vagina joke." She says.

"Nah, too easy." You say. "HEY, AKIRA." You shout to your partner across the floor. "THE TREE LOOKS LIKE A...what is that?"

"Let me get another picture that has a closer look." Star says. A few clicks later. "That...is a sycamore leaf."

"How'd you know that?"

"You get bored REALLY quick on a farm. You read anything that you can find." Star says. "And naturally, that kind of tree shouldn't be able to grow there, or like that."

"Okay, ANYTHING ABOUT SYCAMORES?" You shout at Akira.

"GOT IT." Akira says. He walks over to where you two are with Tobin's Guide. "We are dealing with an Aluraune."

(cont)
>>
>>34305583
"That's a real yokai?" You ask.

"It's actually a yurei. It just has a physical manifestation." Akira says, reading from the book. "The ghost possesses plants so it can walk around."

"She didn't look like a naked girl in a rose or a green skinned girl." Star says. "She looked like a pile of mulch."

"Well, reality rarely caters to the wills of horny gamers." Akira says.

"Why does it need to feed?" You ask.

"It keeps the Aluraune strong enough to dominate the plant." Akira says. "Huh, as long as it has life force to strengthen its PKE, it can force the World Tree to its will, and use it to create a body for itself."

"Wait, wait, wait..." Star says. "The TREE is a HOSTAGE?"

"That's what it says." Akira nods. "It's also apparently a tree that's connected, somehow, to the yggdrasil, it grew from a seed or a branch that was part of it. There's a bunch of the things all around the world."

"So...the plant girl is nordic, a people-eating ghost, and a tree-parasite." You say.

"Yup." Akira says. "Which is good."

"How is that good?" Star says.

"Because we've got protocol for Nordic entities. We can go in with runes, specific wavelengths, and variances." He grins. "We've got her by the acorns."

"Never say that again." Star says.

"How long will it take us to get ready?" You ask.

"We'll be fine." Akira says. "Now that we know exactly what we're going to get, we'll have this settled by the time your 'date' is done." He looks at his watch. "Which also means that you should change and head out if you want to show up on time."

> Change into your best clothes and get ready to face the piper. (You can bring the PKE scanner with you if it makes you feel better,)
> Screw looking nice. You are a Ghostbuster, so you're showing up AS a Ghostbuster. Spectro-goggles, PKE scanner, and other tech.
> You know what? Forget the old hags and the date. Kaede doesn't need you to rescue her all the time. You DO want to help save a Yggdrasil sapling from a parasite.
> Other
>>
>>34305606
>> Screw looking nice. You are a Ghostbuster, so you're showing up AS a Ghostbuster. Spectro-goggles, PKE scanner, and other tech.
Look in the mirror and tell yourself. I am a blatant conman and I'm going to show all my dates that.
>>
>>34305606
>> Screw looking nice. You are a Ghostbuster, so you're showing up AS a Ghostbuster. Spectro-goggles, PKE scanner, and other tech.

Join Ghostbusters: Get bitches
>>
>>34305648
>>34305671
Guys, think about it this is an arranged marriage meeting you don't dress up in your profession as far as I'm aware.

Don't be rediculous

>>34305606
> Change into your best clothes and get ready to face the piper
>>
>>34305606
>Go as a Ghostbuster
Let's be foolish! Give the date who is obviously a trap a real run for her money
>>
>>34305606
>Change into your best clothes and get ready to face the piper. (You can bring the PKE scanner with you if it makes you feel better,)

If we make it obvious we're trying to sabotage this, The Hags are just going to try and get us some other way. Let's just let our winning personality solve this.
>>
>>34305606
> Change into your best clothes and get ready to face the piper. (You can bring the PKE scanner with you if it makes you feel better,)
Let's not embarrass Kaede anymore than we need to. We'll say we're a ghostbuster, but there's no need to get into costume.
>>
>>34305747
>We might make things worse for Kaede
Oh shit, I didn't think about that.
>>
>>34305606
> Change into your best clothes and get ready to face the piper. (You can bring the PKE scanner with you if it makes you feel better,)
>>
Fuddy duddies.
>>
>>34305747
You change into your best (only) suit, slacks, dress shoes, and put on your best jacket that doesn't have any slime or burn stains on it. (Again, only) You tuck a PKE meter into the pocket of your jacket though, it's a comfort, a reminder of what you all, and possibly you could club your grandparents to death with it.

Okay, probably not, but lets not rule the idea out.

You bid the others goodbye, who are looking forward to a fun and violent evening. Then you head down to the train station, and take a ride downtown.

You wonder how it all went sideways. If you had kept your mouth shut you'd probably be half-way into your residency by now. Having sleepless nights keeping people from death. Now you're on the other side...keeping dead people. Well, it beats standing around train stations, getting drunk and seething in righteous anger.

Maybe you shouldn't be so stubborn. You know this is going to end with a fight with your grandparents. So many things did, even before all of this. Mom and Dad would quiver and fold under their statements, and they'd blink is shock and surprise at your defiance.

How did Mom and Dad get married anyway? You know that Grandma and Granny hate each other, and they certainly didn't approve of the marriage. Maybe they used up all of their courage getting married.

You arrive, the 'Date Cafe' is in a nice western style restaurant, A large dining/ballroom set-up with people clumped together in families. You see well dressed boys and girls in age ranges from as old as your parents, to younger than Kaede.

You see your family and you walk over to them. There's Kaede, dressed in a simple blue sundress. Modest, yet still too much for your tastes.

There's Mom and Dad. Standing there in drab, plain, worn clothes, looking just as drab and worn themselves. You love them, but some days you wish you could grab them and shake them and scream 'CHOOSE LIFE!' at them.

(Cont)
>>
I just had an awful thought; what are the chances we're being set up with someone who's a believer, maybe even a fan?
>>
>>34306128
What if the person we meet is actually our literal soulmate and perfect girl for Daisuke, but we're to scared of conspiracy and end up shunning her away?
>>
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>>34306128
>>34306153
Wait, Sana is his soulmate!
>>
>>34306213
>not Saichiko
>>
>>34306153
So grandmas set us up with Sachiko?
>>
>>34306095
Then there's Grandma and Granny. Dressed in traditional clothing that reeks of Old. You've been around plenty of elderly people, and in homes that have smelled of Old. Normally, it's just an odd smell, but in their case it's the Old that smells of misery, spite, decay, and rot. That special kind of Old that hates youth.

Grandma is a shriveled old crone. She stoops, her hair is a grey mass, and her face is a chewed wad of wrinkles. Her hands are wrapped around a metal walking cane, and her skin is papery thin and covered with spots and blotches. Grandma's face has one setting: Frown. The severity of it is the only changing factor.

Granny is pretty much the opposite. Standing as stall as mother, she looks like a bloated drowned corpse. Fat ankles, fat arms, and a bulging mass around her neck. Her hair's a wig, her face is caked with make up, and her smile is as fake as the rest of her.

"Daisuke, so wonderful that you came!" Granny says as she actually walks up and hugs you. Her flesh is cold, clammy, and slightly gelatinous. You'd rather Yurei touch you.

The rest of your family do polite bows. You and Kaede are shunted to the side as the 'adults talk for a bit.' They're comparing names on a piece of paper. You fight the urge to scream.

"K." You say to your sister.

"D." She says. "How's everyone?"

"Good." He says. "They said you should visit soon."

"Mother and Father don't want me to go back there." She says. "They say you aren't going back there either."

"What?" You say.

"They told me that you're here, so you've agreed to stop being a Ghostbuster and will go back to being a doctor. It's been arranged." She says.

"First I've heard of it." You say through gritted teeth.

"I...umm..." Kaede wipes her eyes.

"What's wrong?" You ask.

"Mom and Dad are going to get divorced if we don't do this." She sniffs. "Mom's already got a new boyfriend in Nagano. Grandmother says that if I fail here, that I'll have to start over there."

(cont)
>>
>>34306459
You find yourself having to sit down. "Mom's...cheating on Dad?" You ask.

Kaede shrugs. "Dad's been sleeping around for the past year."

"WHAT?!" You shout. That's even before you...

"Sssh!" Kaede shushes you, and then her face droops. "You didn't know?"

You shake your head. Kaede gives you a hug.

"Your phone is vibrating." She says when she lets go.

That's not your phone. It's your PKE meter. You take it out, something in this place has set it off. Something strong.

> "Kaede, we need to get out of here. Now." Grab your sister and go.
> Scan the entire room with the PKE meter, find out exactly what we're dealing with.
> Pull the fire alarm, or start a fire, or do anything to clear out this restaurant. You need to get everyone out of here.
> Other
>>
>>34306459
Oh god, not more incredibly tough and gutwrenching decisions that we'll probably mess up and choose the worst option.

I love this quest to pieces and this is significantly much more challenging and elaborate and realistic for it, but oh how I hate these situations with a passion.
>>
>>34306459
Okay, this is NOT okay. This is just.... You know, I warned about us going full gaijin with the Kaede choice back there, but THIS is intolerable.
This is NOT okay. Gaijin mode activate, man. Gaijin mode to the max.
>>
>>34306588
And to think we were worried about our family disintegrating without Kaede when they were already destroying it themselves. Our father is NOT the type of man to just kill himself with a lack of "honor"...
>>
>>34306576
>Scan the entire room with the PKE meter, find out exactly what we're dealing with
Its the crones. I bet my last dollar on it.
Also, keep Kaede with us if we have to bolt, keep her safe.
>>
>>34306576
> "Kaede, we need to get out of here. Now." Grab your sister and on your way out pull a fire alarm.
>>
>>34306576
>> Scan the entire room with the PKE meter, find out exactly what we're dealing with.
You know K, we can't let our parents and grandparents live our lives for us. Honestly, I'm happier as a Ghostbuster then I've ever been.
You should come too, I'm sure we could set you up and find a way to get you through school if you want.
>>
>>34306576
>Scan the entire room with the PKE meter, find out exactly what we're dealing with.

If nothing else, focusing on a problem we understand should give us time to think.
>>
>>34306630
>>34306618
>>34306612
>>34306576
Don't forget to CALL BACKUP.

When the PKE rings, so should our phone.
>>
>>34306576
> Scan the entire room with the PKE meter, find out exactly what we're dealing with.

Also talk about how Kaede staying in the Rject Zone would be better for her and that Mom and Dad are 'adults' and can handle themselves.
>>
>>34306588
Oh, so now you choose to completely revert those big angry rants about "stop trying to push filthy Gainjin ideals on our sister and family cohesion"

Finally
>>
>>34306664
Before it was us being inherently selfish and ruining a family because we, the audience, were putting our grubby western ideals all over Japanese morality.

However, that was a different situation. Now it's blackmail. Blackmail is NEVER okay, no matter what.
>>
>>34306712
>were putting our grubby western ideals all over Japanese morality.
And now it turns out our parents don't seem give a shit about "Japenese morality" in the first place.
>>
>>34306576
We gave it a week. The week is over. Paris or Bust for Kid Sis.

But first, business. We might have to call for backup.

>Scan the entire room with the PKE meter, find out exactly what we're dealing with.
>>
This smells incredibly like a trap of some sort to get us to make a mistake. . .
>>
>>34306762
Now it got me thinking
Does scanning the rooms means that we scan it in our seats or we excuse ourselves then scan?
>>
>>34306660
>>34306630
>>34306618

You take out your scanner and you try to locate the source of the trouble.

"You know, K." You say as you scan your family. It's not the hags...damn. "We don't...we're allowed to make our own decisions. Other people can live with their own choices and their own..." You look at your sister. "A year? Really?"

Kaede gives you a nod.

"Why are they even staying together then?" You ask.

Kaede shrugs. "For us. It looks bad if parents divorce. Once we're married, they'll be able to..." Kaede wipes her eyes as she sniffs. "They want what's best for us. Grandmother just likes to phrase things..."

"As if it was your fault." You say through gritted teeth.

There! You've found the source of the PKE. It's a woman. She's dressed in a business suit, an expensive one, and she's standing alone. She has a confident smile on her face and is scanning the room with an appraising eye.

MATCH FOUND. The scanner beeps. Ah, the add-on from Chicago works! It found an identical PKE signature in its memory...and the winner is...a match from the raid on the arcology.

Oh shit.

She's a kitsune.

Not the same kitsune, she clearly has both hands, and she doesn't look anything like the one you fought...but she's a kitsune.

This could be trouble.

> Roll 1d6
>>
>>34306849
I just hope we don't look like an idiot waving a big glowy stick around for perhaps what might be a false alarm or malfunction.
>>
Rolled 2 (1d6)

>>34306858
And here's where we have to seriously be prepared to shield Kaede with our body if necessary.
>>
Rolled 1 (1d6)

>>34306858
I summon the dark powers of this Ghost Roll
>>
Rolled 1 (1d6)

>>34306858
>>
>>34306885
>>34306887
>>34306897
This is going to be very unfortunate
>>
>>34306885
>>34306887
>>34306897
Well, at least it's not a four...
>>
>>34306870
I guess we do now
>>34306925
>34306925
At least its not a ghost roll,right?
>>
>>34306925
Not really, it's 4 that's a crit fail not a 1. We didn't do great by any means but I think that since we avoided a ghost roll we should be ok.
>>
>>34306885
>>34306887
>>34306897
So let me guess, the Kitsune is our counterpart in this omiai.
She's doing it to fuck with us and make us suffer before killing us.

As for dad, this is one of those rare opportunities in Japanese culture where the son takes the father out behind the shed.
Of course, usually it's with a noose and a stool, or a knife, but a good roughing up is fine.
>>
>>34307179
>but a good roughing up is fine.

I'd settle for a rock-hard backhand and a stern talking to, but your milage may vary.
>>
>>34307179
In the back of my mind, there is a possibility we're being played. Why is kid sis only telling us about this now? Someone could be pulling strings.

Let's not kill our parents just yet.
>>
>>34306885
You hide the PKE meter before the kitsune woman can notice you.

"Daisuke, Kaede." You mother says as she walks up to you. She hands you a piece of paper. It's a list of names, some of them are circled. Kaede has the same. "These are the most suitable partners. Please pick them when it comes time, and when you are interviewing them, please be personable and attractive."

"There are some women circled in my list." Kaede says.

"Men in mine." You say.

Your mother gives a shrug. "It would be best for you two to be open. Even if it doesn't result in a match, there are uses for a positive meeting later in life."

"You want me to flirt with the people you THINK are homosexual, just because it might be helpful later? That's horrific! Also, you're asking your daughter who's still in her teens to do this?"

Your mom takes a step back and blinks. "Daisuke, please...you're causing a scene."

"And what's this about me not being a Ghostbuster anymore?" You snap. "I'm going back to the Dumpling Factory after this. Actually, I might even go straight from here TO bust a ghost!"

(cont)
>>
>>34307525
Actually, I wanted to yell at our grandmothers.
"Your generation is the one that lost us the war! The best of your generation are bones at the bottom of the Pacific, and you're nothing but the cowards that stayed behind while your betters went out to die!"
>>
>>34307593
"Daisuke..." Your mother says. "Please...we made the arrangements. It wasn't something we just did. There were costs. It would be very embarrassing for us if you didn't return to a proper vocation. Please, do what's best for the family."

Screw it. You're angry, and you aren't taking this shit anymore. "The best thing for the family was when you let Dad fuck you on two occasions, and it sounds like you've got doubts about that these days too. How's Nagano? Is it so pleasant that Kaede and I can except a step-sibling by Christmas?"

Your mother steps back as if she's been slapped. Tears are in her eyes. She retreats back to the hags and your father.

You turn to Kaede, who punches you in the shoulder. Hard.

"Ow!"

"You're a jerk!" She says.

You sigh and after a moment. "Sorry."

"Go apologize to Mom!" She snaps. "And MEAN it. Don't just do it because I want you to!"

> Go over to the rest of the family and apologize to Mom
> "I'll apologize to Mom when they stop emotionally blackmailing us, and making us feel like crap!"
> "No."
> Go talk to the Kitsune. Maybe you'll get into a fight, you're looking for one.
>>
>>34307613
>> "I'll apologize to Mom when they stop emotionally blackmailing us, and making us feel like crap!"
>>
>>34307613
>"No."
> "I'll apologize to Mom when they stop emotionally blackmailing us, and making us feel like crap!"
> Go over to the rest of the family and tell Dad that we will have WORDS with him, outside. NOW.
Sometimes a stand must be made, even in the face of our little sister.
And if our father is so spineless that he cannot stand up to a rebellious son, then he has no right to be head of the household.
>>
>>34307613
>> "No."
>>
>>34307613
> Go talk to the Kitsune. Maybe you'll get into a fight, you're looking for one.
And the public exhibition of power by the kitsune will cause the date thing to be cancelled.
>>
File: escalated-quickly.jpg (33 KB, 624x317)
33 KB
33 KB JPG
>>
>>34307663
>>34307613
Seconding
>>
Well, I guess they were right about Daisuke being a family breaker after all.

But really this entire situation is fucked up and I hope the people voting here have some sort of plan they're following, because I sure as hell don't.
>>
>>34307613
Tell Kade you'll consider doing so after you've cooled off a bit then:
>Go talk to the Kitsune. Maybe you'll get into a fight, you're looking for one.
>>
Daisuke is a terrible son. He bring shame and dishonor upon the whole family. First by that college thing, now by trying to fuck up arranged marriages that will salvage the family's future.

What's he going to do next? Run off with some shrine maiden?
>>
>>34307765
If we have our way, totally.
>>
>>34307613
>"I'll apologize to Mom when they stop emotionally blackmailing us, and making us feel like crap!"
We'll play ball when they will and not one second sooner.
>>
>>34307765
While true, to be fair our Family don't seem to be the very honorable type except superficially.
>>
>>34307613
>No
No, I will NOT apologize. I was lured here under false pretenses at the whim of those two busybodies! And to top it off, SHE *point at the Kitsune* is here! We are past the point of being nice, this is BLACKMAIL now. I thought that staying out of your life would help the rest of you move on and you could ignore me. I refuse to be dragged back in just so our parents can be absolved of their own transgressions.
>>
>>34307733
Situations like this don't really have a right answer, so you can't really make a plan. All you can do is work towards an outcome that lets you still look at yourself in the mirror once the smoke clears.
>>
>>34307809
I like most of this, but outing the Kitsune that carelessly can only lead to bad things happening.
>>
>>34307874
Let's give her the benefit of the doubt. At worst, she'll be polite and personable. At best, she'll start acting like a maniac and completely burn down the building and ruin everything.
>>
>>34307874
Well, then let's not do that part. Especially since she DEFINITELY knows who we are and might decide to gut us.
>>
>>34307733
My plan is this:
1. Tell Dad that he is a disappointment to us. That he didn't even have the balls to tell us why he's pushing us to do this himself.
2. Be cordial and polite to all of the people on our list. Tell the men outright, that sorry, but we're not gay. However, give them our professional details. Simply say that there are irreconcilable incompatibilities, and let our counterparts save face.
3. When we get to the Kitsune, ask her why she's here. Why has she betrayed Inari?
4. Tell Kaede that since our parents are getting divorced anyway, there's no need for her to go through with anything here, and to come back to the Factory with us.
>>
>>34307953
>When we get to the Kitsune, ask her why she's here. Why has she betrayed Inari?
Maybe she's just here for lunch, heh
>>
>>34307953
>4. Tell Kaede that since our parents are getting divorced anyway, there's no need for her to go through with anything here, and to come back to the Factory with us.
After the stunt we pulled in front of Kaede she is seething and this is no longer an option until a significant change occurs.

Best we salvage what we can of our sisters love, or at least leave her in the best position we can, but last week would have been the best time to convince her to be with us. Now, not so much.
>>
>>34307992
Especially since we refuse to apologize.

Basically unless we pull of a social miracle, Kaede will not be joining us and we gave up the chance when we didn't convince her to stay previously.
>>
>>34308019
>>34307992
>>34307953

We should at least offer to help her out even if she won't come with us. Give her Sana and/or Kali's number.
>>
>>34307790
>>34307663
>>34307659

"I'll apologize to Mom when they stop emotionally blackmailing us, and making us feel like crap!" You snap.

Kaede groans. "Oh, not again."

You stare at Dad, he's just standing there with his head slightly looking at the ground. He's not reacting to you, and he's not doing anything as his mother and mother-in-law scold his wife for her inability to raise a son.

You're four seconds away from running over and screaming at the man, when a soft bell chimes.

"Will the ladies please take their seats?" An announcer says.

It's a Men/Women speed dating set-up at first, only it's a tad longer than just 5 minutes. It'll mix around a bit later, so the women and men can 'network' but this is the 'important' phase.

Kaede sighs and squeezes your hand. "I don't want to be a part of this family anymore." She says. "And that includes you...I don't like you when you're with them. You're rude, and mean, and angry."

You sigh. "I...I don't like this me either." You give your sister a smile. "After this, want to come with and see me and the others fight an evil plant?"

"Can I come to the factory after?" She asks.

"You can come home." You say.

She shakes her head and mutters something in English that you're pretty sure is unflattering and insulting. "We'll see." She says.

You take your first seat. Okay, how to handle this? At least how to handle the regular people? Of course you're going to be polite and cordial. You may be a dick to your family, but you're not an ass. However the devil's in the details.

> Tell them about your scandal. Yes/No
> Tell them you're a Ghostbuster. Yes/No
> Tell them that you live in an abandoned factory with three other people and four ghosts. Yes/No
> Tell them you live in the Reject Zone. Yes/No
> Tell them that you're only here because of emotional blackmail. Yes/No
>>
>>34308350
Yes, no, no, yes, and yes.
>>
>>34308350
>Scandal. No
They'll probably know anyway, though.
>Ghosbuster. Yes
>Living conditions. No
>Reject Zone. No
>Emotional blackmail. No
No need to air our dirty laundry any more than need be.
>>
>>34308350
>> Tell them about your scandal. Yes/No
No
>> Tell them you're a Ghostbuster. Yes/No
Yes
>> Tell them that you live in an abandoned factory with three other people and four ghosts. Yes/No
No
>> Tell them you live in the Reject Zone. Yes/No
Yes
>> Tell them that you're only here because of emotional blackmail. Yes/No
No

We won't bring it up, but we won't lie if asked outright, either.
>>
>>34308409
I like this one
>>
>>34308350
> Tell them about your scandal.
No
> Tell them you're a Ghostbuster.
Yes. They are gonna find that out anyway. Also say that we're gonna get a PhD out of it. Japanese and Asians like PhD's.
> Tell them that you live in an abandoned factory with three other people and four ghosts.
No. We live in Ghostbuster Japan HQ. Any resembelence to that and an abandoned factory is purely coincidence.
> Tell them you live in the Reject Zone.
Yes
> Tell them that you're only here because of emotional blackmail.
Yes. Inform all of them that you are able to live your life your own way and if they want to hitch up their wagons with yours then they gotta decide to allow you to be the boss.
>>
>>34308350
>No, unless directly asked about it.
>Yes
>No
>No
>Hell No

Let's just get this fucking over with. No need to go making any more of a scene than we already have, and everyone who gives a damn about the scandal so far seems to have recognized our name instantly, so it's not as though drawing attention to it will make much of a difference.
>>
>>34308350
>Tell them about your scandal. No
>> Tell them you're a Ghostbuster. Yes
>> Tell them that you live in an abandoned factory with three other people and four ghosts. No
>> Tell them you live in the Reject Zone. Yes
>> Tell them that you're only here because of emotional blackmail. No
>>
You tell people that you're a Ghostbuster, and that you live in the Reject Zone. The younger girls are very enthralled, but the older women are not. The Reject Zone is a big deal killer with a lot of people. Turns out the idea of living next door to Korean refugees is not the ideal life for some people.

You have the horrible suspicion that you're going to walk out of here with marriage proposals from 7 high school girls, and one gothic lolita that has to be approaching your mother's age under all that make up.

The others must never know.

Finally however, you sit down at the table across from the kitsune.

"Salut, mon beau ami." She greets you in French with a wide smile. - -Welcome and be treated as a guest.- - She says in English. "Sind Sie der Glückliche heute Abend?" She says in German.

You blink. She laughs in that tell-tale yip-laugh that kitsune do.

"My name is Kuzu. It is a pleasure to meet you." She grins.

> My name is Daisuke. It's a pleasure to meet you.
> My name is Daisuke. I'm a Ghostbuster.
> My name is Daisuke, it's a pleasure to meet a Kitsune like yourself.
> Other
>>
>>34308955
>My name is Daisuke. I'm a Ghostbuster.
Makes our point without being outright hostile, plus it's not like we haven't told everyone else the same thing.
>>
>>34308955
>> My name is Daisuke. I'm a Ghostbuster.
She comes in peace. She leaves in peace.

She breaks the peace. She leaves in pieces.
>>
>>34308955
>My name is Daisuke. It's a pleasure to meet you.
Let's be polite, courteous, and on-guard like a Japanese negotiator dealing with a Russian negotiation team from a likely Mafia front.
We know that all of the Kitsune we've met so far have been clinical sociopaths.
>>
>>34308955
>> My name is Daisuke. It's a pleasure to meet you.
Basic courtesy, introduce yourself, then tell her your a ghostbuster, we're here to introduce ourselves, not introduce ourselves as a ghostbuster.
>>
>>34308955
>My name is Daisuke. I'm a Ghostbuster and it's nice to meet you. Are you looking for a place to live that's safe for yokai?
>>
>>34308955
>> Other
Touch fluffy tail.
>>
>>34308988
>>34309017
We can tell her what we are when she asks us what we do for a living.
"I am an Ur-Exorcist. Actually met our progenitor, you know. Likes to have fun at the expense of his younger employees, and all that."
>>
>>34309032
This
>>
>>34308955
> My name is Daisuke. I'm a Ghostbuster. Pleasure to meet you.
>>
>>34308955
>> My name is Daisuke. It's a pleasure to meet you.
Let's play along, we haven't confirmed she's malicious, and to set up a stereotype of kitsune's, even if it is heavily supported by precedence, isn't the way to go.
>>
Besides, she would most likely deny our claims and call us crazy anyway.
>>
>>34308955
>My name is Daisuke. It's a pleasure to meet you.
>>
>>34309117
>set up a stereotype of kitsune's
But it would be racist and xenophobic, which is perfectly Japanese.
>>
>>34309168
>>34309117
>>34309036
>>34309032

"My name is Daisuke. It's a pleasure to meet you." You say.

Kuzu grins. "Well, let me get straight to the point. I'm looking for a mate with a steady job, and who's willing to have children. Also, I love to travel, so if you aren't willing to leave Japan for at least a holiday, then we can just chat about baseball or movie."

"Do you have any particular job types?" You ask.

She shrugs. "I want my children to be raised in a safe, stable, home and never have to fret about their next meal." She touches your hand. "You could be a garbage man, or an undertaker, and I wouldn't mind. I would be honored to be the mother of your children."

Whoa...even an undertaker? Your job may deal with death...but in Japan, THAT is a social strata that looks UP at you.

She raises an eyebrow at you and grins. "Of course...that implies that you DO have a steady job. Right?"

> Oh yes. I have a very steady job in...pest extermination.
> Oh yes. I have a steady job. I'm a Ghostbuster.
> You are very different than the other kitsune I've met.
> Other
>>
>>34309374
> Oh yes. I have a steady job. I'm a Ghostbuster.
I'm also skilled in medicine, too!
>>
>>34309374
>Oh yes. I have a steady job. I'm a Ghostbuster.
Honest but not rude.
>>
>>34309374
I'm not sure if our profession allows for much travel, we're sorta like firemen and work locally

> Oh yes. I have a steady job. I'm a Ghostbuster.
>>
>>34309374
"I'm a Ghostbuster, but I'm not really sure how steady that could be described as."
>>
>>34309374
>> You are very different than the other kitsune I've met.
>>
>>34309433
Yeah, the only way I see us going on a trip is if another branch calls for backup.
>>
>>34309374
>Oh yes. I have a steady job. I'm a Ghostbuster
>Talk up the Financial Opportunities and our currently expanded academic education through Ghost Busters International
>Its exciting using cutting edge equipment and familiarizing myself with all the truths of folklore from across the world. And of course travel sounds divine.
>>
>>34309374
>> Oh yes. I have a steady job. I'm a Ghostbuster.
I'm ready to believe you. Ask about the Ghostbusters Hot Beverage Thermal Mug and free balloon for the kids.
>>
>>34309374
>Other
"Hmm..The work is steady but sometimes there are deluges and slow weeks. You've been very forthright with me, so please allow me to be upfront as well. I'm a Ghostbuster."

Kitsune wives were said to be exemplary housewives, so long as you didn't do something that made them divorce you.
>>
>>34309374
> Oh yes. I have a steady job. I'm a Ghostbuster.
> You are very different than the other kitsune I've met.
>>
>>34309374
>> Oh yes. I have a steady job. I'm a Ghostbuster.

"I was studying to be a doctor, but…"

>> You are very different than the other kitsune I've met.
>>
>>34309374
>raised in a safe, stable, home
Whelp, that knocks us out of the running. I doubt anything we do can be described as "safe" or "stable."
>>
>>34309492
Yeah I'm not really sure how consistent our job is.
>>
>>34309527
What about our life insurance?
Surely that would be enough to help support them as long as it is invested wisely.
>>
>>34309374
>Other
"I'm....Look, you seem really nice, but it's time to put my cards on the table. I'm a Ghostbuster, which is neither safe nor particularly stable. Also, in about a month, something very big is going to go down that I'm trying to stop. I'm not sure if I'll survive, but you might want to try being overseas when it happens."
>>
>>34309461
Then again, we have been offered some sort of scholarship to study abroad towards parapsychology/nuclear physics/or perhaps even medical school.

Also, maybe a vacation is possible. Our teammates handled themselves without us before, surely they could stand a week or a few days of vacation.
>>
>>34309553
Good point, maybe once the whole Oiwa thing is over we can check that out.
>>
I know that it's far more likely that this is another plot by Mae to have one of her agents seduce us and to knock us out (either by making us go overseas or kill us in our sleep), but I'm really curious about the whole 'all kitsune are sociopaths' thing and whether that's always been true or a result of Inari disappearing.
When your god/goddess who is your moral compass disappears, I think losing your sense of right and wrong is understandable.
>>
>>34309433
>>34309461
At best we have rare periods where all the stars and planets align* where we're both unoccupied and fiscally well off where we can head to the nearest beach and spend a few days Feet in the Sand, Drink in Hand.

*(Not literally, since those are generally some of the busiest times.)
>>
>>34309396
>>34309411
>>34309433

"Oh yes, I have a steady job." You say. "I'm a Ghostbuster."

Kuzu's eyes widen and then they narrow, and then she looks around. "I don't know what kind of joke you're playing." She hisses. "But you tell that whore that I am NOT helping her, also, this isn't funny."

"What isn't funny?" You ask.

"Insulting me like this. Yes, I am looking for a partner. I am in heat. It's a normal thing. I don't know how much she's paying you, nutsack, but I can still kick your swollen sack up one street and down the other." She scoffs. "Ghostbuster my ass, you think I'm so incompetent that I can't hide myself from a bunch of mortals? I am Kuzu-no-ha. I kicked the tails of the slut you worked for. I've forgotten more lore than you'll ever know. And you think you can spook me by pretending to be a Ghostbuster?" She laughs again. "I've seen them on the news, you don't even have the face right."

She rolls her eyes. "Okay, so what does the bitch want?"

> "No...seriously. I'm a Ghostbuster."
> "Which whore-slut-bitch are you talking about exactly? I want to make sure you're talking about MY boss."
> "Why exactly are you here, in a middle-class marriage market?"
> Other
>>
>>34309651
>"No...seriously. I'm a Ghostbuster."
Wave the PKE meter perhaps?
>>
>>34309651
> "Which whore-slut-bitch are you talking about exactly?
I mean we've busted so many of those lately I don't know which one you are talking about.
>>
>>34309651
>I'm so incompetent that I can't hide myself from a bunch of mortals?
>>34309695
My thoughts exactly.
>>
>>34309651
>"No... seriously. I'm a Ghostbuster."
PKE-Meter on the table.
"I'm seriously a Ghostbuster and this is an honest mistake. I'm being blackmailed by my family to get married so they don't have to admit that they're all cheating on each other."
>You tell that whore that I am NOT helping her
Confirmed for all Kitsune not being complete sociopathic wackos.
>>
>>34309651
>> Other
Kuzu-No-Ha mother of Abe no Seimei? No way?

>> "No...seriously. I'm a Ghostbuster."
And then we wrap our arms around the Fox Girl and take her back to the Dumpling Factory and feed her booze until sex and information happens.
>>
>>34309651
>"No...seriously. I'm a Ghostbuster."
> Other
Place our PKE Meter on the table.
"I'm sorry to tell you, Kuzu-san, that technology has come a long way for the Ur-Exorcists.
"But actually, that you aren't working for HER does actually make me very curious about you. Please, may I ask some questions?"
Pour her some tea if there's a tea pot available.
>>
>>34309651
>Other
>Being as nonthreatening with our body language as possible, calmly place or PKE meter on the table.
> "Which whore-slut-bitch are you talking about exactly? I want to make sure you're talking about MY boss."
>>
>>34309597
I'm honestly wondering this as well, we really don't know much about the culture and lives of Youkai, the ghostbusters know more about ghost and underworld civilization and ancient cults than we know of those who live among us.

Perhaps this is a wonderful opportunity to learn more. How are they born and raised? Do they know their Youkai from the get go? What is their relationship to the gods?
>>
>>34309651
>Kuzu-no-ha
>Quick google
Oh dear, she's one of the nice ones.
Let's NOT piss her off, yes?
>>
So, this is shaping up to be pretty interesting. Anyone else for asking for a second date with Kuzu?
We got 3 dates with her before we have to make a decision, after all.
>>
>>34309758
And ruin our hot streak?
>>
>>34309758
Let's not piss her off, but it could still be a trick. Also I wonder if Youkai ever name their children after famous Youkai. That or she's lying about her name.

>>34309765
Of course, and who knows, she might even shape up to be an actual choice in the end.

Or she's just a spy, and is our Tamamo-no-mae to our Yasuo.
>>
>>34309823
If we DO go for a second date, the guys back at the Factory will have enough material for a week.

I mean, come one. Hot kitsune MILF who is a sound financial investor, great cook, doesn't nag, isn't passive-aggressive so she'll actually tell you why she's angry; what's not to love?
>>
>>34309713
You calmly reach into your jacket pocket and place the PKE Meter on the table.

Kuzu blinks a couple of times, and then opens and loses her mouth.

"No, seriously." You say. "I'm a Ghostbuster."

She purses her mouth and then points at you. "Wait...the one on TV has a rounder face?"

"That's Sato." You say. "He usually gets filmed because he's the one who usually gets hurt, or slimed."

"Tell him that I think he's cute." Kuzu says. "So...how does this end?"

"Well, I was hoping we could move on to tea." You say gesturing at the teapot.

Kuzu grins and pours two cups. "You know I've seen the ruins of the old ziggurats. Beautiful pieces of work. Also met Ishtar, best week in Thailand I don't remember."

"We aren't really associated with her." You say. "She just likes getting us in fights."

"Sounds about right." Kuzu says. "Oh, deal's off, just so you know. I don't mate with exorcists or other people in our business. No offense."

"None taken." You say. "I'm not exactly here looking for someone myself. My family is forcing me here."

"Drama?"

"Like you wouldn't believe." You sigh. "So, ummm, which whore-slut-bitch are you talking about exactly? We've faced a couple."

"Tamamo-No-Mae." Kuzu says.

"Really? I heard that she's in Okinawa." You say.

"Her? HA. No, she's here in Tokyo. Probably plotting to become the next empress, AGAIN. Honestly, it's one thing to be a sociopath." She gestures to herself. "Case in point, but to go straight to the power-hungry evil genius bit?" She shakes her head. "She's just an unhappy person."

"So, all kitsune are sociopaths?" You ask. "What about Inari?"

"Yes, but there's a spectrum. For example, I don't really have empathy for other people, husbands included, but my children are my world." She shrugs. "Although it's up to the psychologists if that's empathy or mere possessiveness, since when they're old enough I do tend to feel less for them." She shrugs. "But Inari is different."

"How so?" You ask.

(cont)
>>
>>34310091
> "Oh, deal's off, just so you know. I don't mate with exorcists or other people in our business. No offense."
;_;
>>
>>34310091
Damn. She seemed like a nice girl. I at least hope we can (and I can't believe I'm saying this) be friends.
>>
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>>34310091
We should give her out business card.

She seems really friendly and a good source of information. We should also wish her good luck in her search for a husband.
>>
>>34310091
>"That's Sato." You say. "He usually gets filmed because he's the one who usually gets hurt, or slimed."
>
>"Tell him that I think he's cute." Kuzu says. "So...how does this end?"

Well, if that PAGAN chick don't work out…
>>
>>34310173
I agree, Kuzu is cool. Let's offer her a formal invitation to the Factory as long as she comes in peace as a friend.
She'd probably get along with the crowd, and just think of all the Hijinx a Kitsune of her age could get into.
>>
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>>34310091
>Oh, deal's off, just so you know
>no chance at hot kitsune MILF action
>>
>>34310203
She doesn't date exorcists, remember?

Although, if Sato ever wanted to retire...
>>
>>34310223
We get hot tsuntsun miko action instead!
>>
>>34310145
To be fair, this would be a nearly textbook example of sticking our dick in crazy.
>>
>>34310186
I'm sure she'll find someone, I'm inferring she finds someone to marry her, to raise children with, ages with him till he dies, and then once the kids are all grown up and on their own, she reverts her age.

She makes sure to get a good husband with a stable job to raise her children into adulthood.
>>
>>34310225
>if Sato ever wanted to retire...
What? No, we saw this fluffy tail first!

I'm not sure if it's a good thing or bad that she's so upfront about being a clinical sociopath.
At least she's honest.
>>
>>34310225
Yeah, I got to that part after I hit submit. Got an itchy trigger finger these passed couple of days.
>>
>>34310251
She might not care about people, but she's learned that not being an asshole wins her favors.

Like if her or her children ever needed Ghostbuster help, we'll prioritize it because she's not an asshole Kitsune.
>>
>>34310203
It'd be nice, but she doesn't do people in 'the business'.

Plus I really hope Sato and Rei get together. They were made for each other.
>>
>>34310270
Sato should get Rei
Akira and Yurei ought to be spoken for
That just leaves us, Sana, Star, and Saichiko.
>>
>>34310270
>hope Sato and Rei get together. They were made for each other.
I think you mean "they deserve each other".

>>34310267
So all kitsune are sociopaths.
Would Daisuke prefer tanuki or rabbit?
Rabbits are city-girls and sophisticated, but have those expensive tastes.
Tanuki are country bumpkins and avaricious merchants. The former could actually be endearing for some. Especially if they come from the Kansai region, and therefore fit both youkai and Japanese regional stereotypes.
>>
>>34310091
"Well, you ask the whore and she'll say that she only has empathy because she's a kami." Kuzu says. "I know her well enough to know that she's a kami BECAUSE she has empathy. I don't know how she got it, honestly don't care. I have a nice life, and many wonderful children. I don't need to be a God. Guess who think she does."

"Do you know where Inari, or the other kami, are?" You ask.

"No idea." Kuzu says. "I asked Inari in America and she has no clue either. They're not dead, they're not held captive, and no one is imitating them. Prayers sent to them are being received and answered by them, but they aren't present."

"Inari is in America?" You ask.

"Kind of. America's weird. The Inari there isn't the same here. Can't come here either. It's a bit meta and I don't understand it myself, really." Kuzu says. "Fun place to visit though."

"You really do like to travel." You say.

"Been around the world many times, and it still isn't enough." She grins. "Wanderlust. Love that word."

A soft tone is heard. You've only got about three more minutes with Kuzu before you have to go to the next person.

"Can we talk at the meal?" You ask. "I've really got to know more about Tamamo-No-Mae and her schemes."

Kuzu bites her lip. "I'm actually planning to chat up a few potential mates. How about after this is over, you and I can go out for drinks? Swap war stories, and I'll tell you how to smash Mae's face in? Have a little fun after business. Sound good?"

> I actually have a thing I need to go to with my co-workers. Another ghost, can we reschedule?
> Well, my sister's here and I want to make sure that she gets out of this drama in one piece. Can we set another time?
> Ummm...okay, sure!
> Other
>>
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>>34310343
Tanuki are extra assholes. And really, you should never get involved with a city girl.
>>
>>34310324
Star still has a thing for Akira, so I'm expecting some love-triangle hijinks with her, Yurei and Akira at some point.
>>
>>34310351
> I actually have a thing I need to go to with my co-workers. Another ghost, can we reschedule?
> Well, my sister's here and I want to make sure that she gets out of this drama in one piece. Can we set another time?
I'll give you my card and we can find out when we are free.
>>
>>34310351
>Ummm...okay, sure!
The others can handle the cafe, we might never get this kind of opportunity again.
>>
>>34310351
>Well, my sister's here and I want to make sure that she gets out of this drama in one piece. Can we set another time?

Maybe tomorrow night?
>>
>>34310351
>Well, my sister's here and I want to make sure that she gets out of this drama in one piece. Can we set another time?
>Other
"If you love to travel, I know of a vampire who lives locally and has done quite a bit of traveling herself. I can introduce you two if you want?"
And don't forget to offer her our business card.

And do it right, with both hands.
>>
>>34310351
>Ummm...okay, sure!
This is a golden opportunity for some great intel, I say we take it.
>>
>>34310351
>Well, my sister's here and I want to make sure that she gets out of this drama in one piece. Can we set another time?

We've got prior obligations, and she seems to have at least some understanding of familial loyalty, so this seems like the most polite option.
>>
>>34310423
I think this would work. Seconded.
>>
>>34310351
>Sister
>Another ghost
"Ah, no can do. First I've got to save my sister from this mess then I have to go meet up with the others to deal with some life-eating tree-people. Maybe tomorrow or in a few days, especially if you have expert advice on our mutual problem."
>>34310381
They could do a thing I saw in a Harry Potter fanfic once and have Yurei ride along in Star for.... fun times.
>>
>>34310351
>The Inari there isn't the same here. Can't come here either.
Sounds like American Gods series where each region has their own view of a certain diety, and thus the diety differs from region to region.
>>
>>34310453
...brilliant and weird madness
>>
>>34310351
>Well, my sister's here and I want to make sure that she gets out of this drama in one piece.

Unless kid sis finds someone she likes. If so, then sure… after we give the guy the TSA treatment.
>>
>>34310351
>> Ummm...okay, sure!
I'm worried that something will happen to Kuzu after tonight. I'm really worried.
>>
>>34310423
I dunno, all she cares about is her kids.

Tell her about a male, and she'd probably be interested.
>>
>>34310423
>>34310453
These might work
>>
>>34310484
If you mean the Old Man vampire she probably wouldn't be interested, one because he's old, two because I'm not sure if vampires can have three, and the biggest one he's immortal.

It makes sense for her to want to fall in love with mortals and live their lives through, because can you imagine how boring an eternal marriage would get? Especially a childless one.
>>
>>34310475
I'm pretty sure that older entities just get stronger. Like... early on, fully dealing with all those horror movie ladies would have been easy because they were new and pretty weak. Now it's decades later and we were in mortal danger just trapping them for a time.
Going after Kuzu with anyone short of Mae on-sight would probably be a slaughter.
>>
>>34310351
>Ummm...okay, sure!
Because it's possible that this might be a one-time thing.
>>
>>34310523
No, of course I don't mean the old vampire. I'm just stating her priorities.
>>
>>34310523
*if vampires can have children
>>
>>34310351
> Well, my sister's here and I want to make sure that she gets out of this drama in one piece. Can we set another time?
>>
>>34310537
If we mere mortals have the technology and assets to take on someone like Kuzu and other beings far more powerful, I don't doubt those on the otherside wouldn't as well.

Not that she hasn't been living for oh so long that it's unlikely she'll make a mistake anytime soon, of course.
>>
>>34310351
>Ummm...okay, sure!
It doesn't seem like it's a trap, and I think our teammates can understand, especially since they've got the plant thing in the bag with their research.
>>
>>34310615
>it's unlikely she'll make a mistake anytime soon, of course.
She obviously hasn't been keeping up with what modern technology can do, though, since she thought a glamour would be able to protect her from being detected.
Funny how it actually made her easier to detect.
>>
>>34310615
I'm saying that unlike mere mortals, Kuzu isn't going to exactly be able to get knifed on the street by some the spiritual equivalent of bum for her money, ya dig? If she's as old, or older, than Mae then it'll take a group/individual of equivalent power. Which means either throwing a shitton of mooks or having Mae come around to try and slap her. Which appears to have failed before
>>
>>34310351
>Ummm...okay, sure!
You don't pass up the jackpot, at most maybe call out team first and ask them for the okay.
>>
>>34310351
>Ummm...okay, sure!
If we don't take advantage of this now, she might already be starting a relationship later. She's in heat and looking for a mate; we don't have much time.
>>
>>34310351
>>Well, my sister's here and I want to make sure that she gets out of this drama in one piece. Can we set another time?
>>
>>34310801
Why would her finding a mate prevent her from being an informant? We're not gunning for a relationship regardless.
>>
>>34310710
>Which means either throwing a shitton of mooks or having Mae come around to try and slap her.
Yeah.

Unlike her, Mae is into the whole "World Domination" thing and has amassed all sorts of minions at her disposal. We're lucky to have faced only masses of Tengu mooks last time, and not a small coordinated force of highly trained force of spirits, monsters, or wizards working together.

Of course, there's no reason Mae would even want to bother a concentrated effort like that on Kuzu when she has other important matters.
>>
>>34310835
Cultural expectations.
She would need to meet with either Sana or Star, rather than any of the men.
>>
>>34310859
As long as we still get all the info out of her I don't see the problem with that.
>>
>>34310602
"Umm, okay." You say. "But, can I at least make sure that my sister gets out of this drama in one piece?"

Kuzu shrugs. "Family, I get it. But, remember, I don't really care one way or the other. I won't be keeping my schedule book open, and I like to do things!"

"I get it. I get it." You say.

"Look, if you want, take your sister along with us." She shrugs.

You laugh a little. She must think that Kaede is as old as you are. "Alright, I'll think about it."

The tone chimes. "Later, Ghostbuster." Kuzu says.

You go through the rest of the interviews, and its the same for the last three people. The older woman is turned off by the ghostbuster thing, the woman your own age doesn't want to dwell in the Reject Zone, and the younger girl thinks that being a Ghostbuster is The Coolest Thing Ever.

It finishes and you regroup with Kaede. "How you do K?"

"I think my age turned off a bunch of people," She says. "Also when a girl can speak more languages than the boy, they don't like it. I don't think anyone here wants to marry me."

"And you're upset by that?" You ask.

Kaede shrugs. "Maybe a little. What about you?"

"I'm going to have 8 marriage proposals by people in your grade." You sigh. "Ghostbusters are cool."

Kaede smiles.

You see your family approaching. Kaede pinches your arm.

"Ow! What was that for?"

"Be. Nice!" Kaede warns. "Or at least don't say anything. Okay, D?"

You make a grumbling noise.

"Hello dears." Granny says, giving you both another nauseating hug. "We're all going to eat now and go over who thought you two were acceptable!"

You bite your tongue and follow.

The meal is torture. The food is lousy croissant sandwiches, and every so often you are visited by either a too enthusiastic elementary schooler, who wants to know more about Ghostbusting, or a too enthusiastic salaryman, who sits too close to Kaede for your liking.

(cont)
>>
>>34311038
>I don't think anyone here wants to marry me.
Awww. I'll marry you, sis.
>>
>>34311038
>or a too enthusiastic salaryman, who sits too close to Kaede for your liking.

We really need to R&D a pistol-sized slimethrower for situations like this.
>>
>>34311183
Could always get Yurei to slime em, among other things.
>>
>>34311038
It doesn't help that Grandmother is glaring at everyone who comes up with the same intensity as a proton stream, and Granny makes nasty comments about the young girl's weight, looks, or social standing.

Four girls have walked away in tears.

Mom and Dad don't say anything. They just look at their food, or at the visiting applicant. Never at each other.

"You failed." Grandmother says to you. "You haven't attracted any suitable prospects. Just young girls. I'd suspect you to be a pedophile, but you haven't shown even the slightest attraction to them." She scoffs. "You didn't tell them that you were a doctor, you went with that nonsense." She prods you with her cane under the table. "You aren't going back there boy, we've discussed this. You're returning home with us and going back to medical school. There will be no argument."

You open your mouth, but Kaede gives her head a little shake. "No." You say. "There won't."

"Oh good!" Granny says. "You're finally doing the right thing for your family. I knew you'd eventually find your conscience." She pats you on the cheek.

Mom and Dad continue to say nothing and eat.

"Salut, Daisuke!" A vibrant voice says.

Kuzu has come by. "I'd thought I'd drop by and say "Privet!" She says in Russian.

"Salut!" Kaede chirps up. "Mon nom est Kaede, quelle est la vôtre?"

Kuzu's eyebrows shoot up and her face beams. "Is THIS your sister?"

You nod.

"She's ADORABLE!" Kuzu sits down and launches into a stream of French. Kaede keeps up pretty well and the pair chat for a bit. You can hear Kuzu quiz Kaede on her other tongues as well.

"You are Minori Kuzu?" Grandmother says.

"Yes, that is what they call me." Kuzu says with a smile.

"You are interested in wedding the boy?" She asks.

"Well...no." She says. "He's not quite what I was looking for, but he's so char-"

"Begone. We have no time for foreign tongued trollops." Grandmother says.

"What." Kuzu says.

(cont)
>>
>>34311260
Can we feed our grandmothers to the vampires? At least then they would be useful for once.
>>
>>34311260
>"Begone. We have no time for foreign tongued trollops." Grandmother says.

MY SIDES, who wants to place bets on what happens to Grandmother?
>>
>>34311291
I'm hoping Daisuke just hits her. Really.
>>
>>34311260
>"Begone. We have no time for foreign tongued trollops." Grandmother says.
>
>"What." Kuzu says.

Getcha popcorn ready
>>
>>34311304
Let the grandma suffer
Remember, they force us to retire from ghostbuster
let her taste fear
>>
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>>34311260
Oh shit.
>>
>>34311260
>We have no time for foreign tongued trollops
I really, really want to go into the whole "Your generation cost us the war and the Empire! We'd still have Manchuria if it wasn't for cowards like you!" rant, but it's probably better to let Kuzu handle this.
She's OLD MONEY, after all.
This will be entertaining to watch.
>>
>>34311260
>>"Begone. We have no time for foreign tongued trollops." Grandmother says.

"What." Kuzu says.

Oooooh, DIS GONE BE GUD.
>>
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>>34311260
>>
>>34311260
>"Begone. We have no time for foreign tongued trollops." Grandmother says.

This is not going to end well.
>>
>>34311373
Correction, this is going to end awesomely
>>
>>34311347
>>34311319
>>34311298
>>34311373
Hopefully our Grandmums aren't witches or something and Kuzu didn't misheard their order to actually begone
>>
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>>34311260
Oh shit
>>
>>34311260
>"There will be no argument"
>"No, there won't."
That's because we're going to ignore them and go about saving their thankless lives.
>>34311336
They can't FORCE us to do anything, but they can attempt a great number of things, none of which will work on a social outcast who has no inclination to rejoin the herd.
>>34311394
Like they'd have any traction after INSULTING KUZU
>>
>>34311260
>"Begone. We have no time for foreign tongued trollops." Grandmother says.

#shotsfired
>>
>>34311260
"You are disgraceful in bearing, too openly forward, and have a fetish for foreign things. Unacceptable. Leave." Grandmother says.

"Yes, dear. You really shouldn't encourage our little Kaede to be so foreign. It's ugly looking and won't help her get a husband." Granny says. "A nasty tongue in her plain face won't do her any favors. Why don't you go be more forward with someone who will appreciate you being so...open? We prefer things properly here."

Kuzu blinks. "Who ARE you two? WHAT are you two?" She looks at you, stunned.

"These are my grandmothers." You say. "That's also my father and my mother." You gesture to the two other people at the table.

"Why are you two letting them speak to me, or you children like that?" Kuzu says. "Speak."

"It's too much effort." Dad says. "I work, and I devote my time to the company. The girl just talks about France and the Boy ruins things. It's easier to just let mother and my wife deal with this. I don't want to be here, I'd rather be with Naka."

Kuzu points at Mom. "They...aren't what I wanted them to be. I wanted a sweet daughter and a handsome doctor son. Instead they do things that I don't understand. I love them, but I don't understand them. It's just so much work...I want to be in Nagano, with Jigari. Best to let mother handle it."

You see a muscle twitch in Kuzu's throat, and she makes a growling noise.

"Kuzu..." You say, getting up and taking her arm. "Can we talk? Over here? Please?"

The rest of the family seems to still be in a trance. Not notice what everyone else has said.

You walk a few steps away, leading Kuzu and she spins on you. "I'm killing them." She says.

"What?!" You say.

"I'm killing all of them, and I'll adopt your sister as my own daughter. She's wonderful. You can do as you will. You're a tad old to be my child, and you can take care of yourself."

> "You can't just kill my family!"
> "You can't just adopt my sister!"
> "Promise that she'll be safe?"
> Other
>>
>>34311528
>> "You can't just kill my family!"
No killing our family. As much as I hate them, the second that happens we have to deal with it. Honestly, I like you and would rather not have to attempt to bust you.
I'm just trying to get Kaede to come with me, the rest of them can go with their lovers and live their lives however they want from then on.
>>
>>34311528
>"You can't just kill my family!"
I don't think kid sis will like that either.
>>
>>34311528
> Other "You can't just Kill people"
>>
>>34311528
>"Promise that she'll be safe?"
Honestly? I'm totally down with this. Fuck those assholes.
>>
>>34311606
This more than anything.
>>
>>34311528
"While I would rather see the old hags dead, I don't think Kaede would appreciate killing our parents."
>>
>>34311609
They're assholes, but they're still people
>>
>>34311528
>"Promise that she'll be safe?"
It's a bit rash, but it's not like these jerks have a whole lot of redeeming features anyway.
>>
>>34311528
>Other
"You can't just kill them like that!
"They need to be made to suffer! To see how they're seen as worthless by all around them, and that the rest of their generation see them as cowards, who lived safe back in the Home Islands while the best of Japan died in the mud of foreign shores! They need to have everything taken from them, and have righteous judgement come down on their heads!"
>>
>>34311620
>>34311606
"Also I can't let you murder someone for a number of reasons, none the least because I am a ghostbuster."
>>
>>34311609
>>34311630
If she starts killing people, we get called. If we get called, we have to attempt to bust her.
I'd rather not have to bust the one Kitsune who isn't an irritating bitch.
>>
>>34311528
"Kaede probably wouldn't appreciate it, she's an affectionate sort.

Also, she's already on the cusp of adulthood unless you want her to be spoiled, I'd say you might be better off having a kid of your own."
>>
>>34311528
>Other
>No. Hell no! They're weak, horrible people but if you know anything about exorcists, you should realize there's not a chance in this world I'm going to stand by and let you do that.
>>
>>34311642
Yeah, I mean, beyond the fact that we'd be condoning actual murder, we'd be going against exactly what we're supposed to be preventing in our Job.
>>
>>34311528
>You can't just kill my family
>Other
"Listen, Kuzu... I.... well, honestly I'm a bit tempted to have the two biggest aches in my life gone for good, but you can't just kill my family! It's.... it's wrong! I'm a Ghostbuster, I protect people from reactions like this! I'd have to resign, or worse, if I allowed this! I hate my grandmothers and my parents are sleepwalking through their lives, but I don't want them dead. And more, Kaede would never forgive me if I allowed it, and she'd never forgive YOU for doing it."
"Look, I've already got a plan to get her away from... this *gesture at our family*. It doesn't involve murder but it DOES involve Kaede achieving her dream of seeing Paris. They say the best revenge is a life well-lived, right? Would you accept that instead; leave the bitter old crones to their memories of glory days that never really existed?
>>
>>34311528
> Other
Lets not kill them. I'd much rather my grandmothers be stuck with each other for their last few years alive. They hate each other, and I can think of no better revenge then being stuck with a person you hate for the rest of their lives.

As for mom and dad... That's my thing. You get the grandmas, I work on ma and pa.
>>
>>34311528
>You can't just kill my family!
>Other
>Can you make them forget about us?
>>
For someone who has supposedly lived with several husbands and raised human children over what is likely centuries, she seems surprisingly (or perhaps unsurprisingly) detached from basic human empathy and customs of not just killing people you don't like and then adopting their children.
>>
>>34311528
how about this?
"Not ONLY would Kaede not appreciate you killing these people, she REALLY wouldn't appreciate you killing me, since my job forces me to at least try to stop you from killing people, and... we both know how that's gonna end."
>>
>>34311694
She's trying to do us a favor, it's kind of sweet really.
Honestly, if it didn't cause us so many problems I'd be open to it.
>>
>>34311709
Yeah, good intentions, bad. . .everything else
>>
>>34311694
>detached from basic human empathy and customs of not just killing people you don't like and then adopting their children.

One could argue that she's old enough to be from a time where that sort of thing was actually an acceptable, even noble practice.
>>
>>34311755
Given what I've heard of 'killing rages' being an acceptable thing way back when, I'll believe that.
>>
>>34311694
She IS a clinical sociopath. And she specifically is not developing empathy because she feels she doesn't need it to live a full and entertaining life.
That and the era she's from is one where killing people for insults was a thing.
>>
>>34311528
"I appreciate the sentiment... which means I'm gonna have to take a long look in the mirror later tonight, but murder isn't the answer."

Though as long as Kaede's okay with it, and Kuzu promises not to kill her when Kaede gets too old, who else would be okay with Kaede being taken under Kuzu's wing?
>>
>>34311620
>>34311667
>>34311673

I vote for a mix of these.
>>
>>34311528
Are our parents autistic, or does Kuzu have some sort of "tell the truth" power?
>>
>>34311822
Kuzu is Major Hoodoo. She do what she want.
>>
>>34311836
Which is why our "please don't kill them" shouldn't take the form of a threat, or really anything that looks like telling her what to do.

Like don't say she -can't- kill them, or that she's wrong/insane, just do our best to say it's a bad idea.

...I mean, at least our mom said she loved us. That's worth something right?
>>
>>34311799
I can dig it.
>>
>>34311799
Seconded
>>
>>34311858
>just do our best to say it's a bad idea.
Sort of like >>34311634 where we go on about how we can't make them suffer if they're already dead (because then we'd have to go searching through Yomi and no one wants to deal with a rampaging Izanami)?
>>
>>34311858
I think she's been around the block enough to have dealt with a Morality Speech before. We're not calling her insane and 'you can't do [x horrible thing]!' before is a rather obvious appeal to the social contract/basic morality/human decency.
We're doing little more than begging her off. At least she had the courtesy of informing us and giving us a chance to talk her down beforehand.
>>
>>34311528
You can't just kill my family!
>>
>>34311799
I support this option.
>>
You sigh. "You can't kill them."

"Why not?" Kuzu says.

"Because if you try, then I'd have to stop you." You say. "It's my job. I think you're rather nice, and would like to continue our friendship. Also, it would upset Kaede and I'd have a lot of crap to deal with."

Kuzu sighs. "Fine."

"Anyway, I'm trying to help get Kaede away from them." You say.

"Want me to erase you from their memories then?" Kuzu asks. "You can ask your sister's permission."

You shake your head. "No. Then they'd just drift apart and go on making other people miserable. I know Grandma and Granny hate each other and make each other miserable, and if being together and being our parents is such a damn chore for Mom and Dad." You sneer. "I don't want them dead, and I don't want them to suffer. I want them to be miserable, joyless, and live long long lives. I also want them to see Kaede, and maybe myself if I don't end up killed, live long happy lives. Just so they can feel even more bitter and miserable."

Kuzu looks at you and blinks for a moment. "You are not going to be my mate, but I am so taking you home this evening. Also, I'm still adopting your sister...spiritually."

"Huh?" You ask.

"It means that she'll be fine." She winks. "Take her along with you after this, I wanna talk with her some more too. She can sleep on the couch bed." She then cracks her knuckles in both hands. "Now...may I give your family a proper curse, JUST how you said it. No harm, no suffering, no pain. Just a long hopeless life of misery. I'll even make it impossible for them to take the easy way out. And they'll all be stuck with each other." She shakes her head. "Ooh, this one is so good I'll have to remember it for later."

"Wait." You say and sigh. "Let Kaede know. She should have a say."

(cont)
>>
>>34311783
Which may not have been that long ago really. Kiri-sute gomen only ended but less than 200 years ago with the end of the Samurai during the Meji-Restoration.
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>>34311963
>You are not going to be my mate, but I am so taking you home this evening
We're not saying no to this are we?
>>
>>34311963
>Then they'd just drift apart and go on making other people miserable
This is a problem why?

>Now...may I give your family a proper curse
Leery of this. Karma should be respected, and it feels like our family is already cursed anyway.
>>
>>34311963
>I am so taking you home this evening
You see this sense of morality? It is a BABE. MAGNET.
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>>34312018
>implying we have a choice
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>>34312018
Don't stick your dick in crazy.

Wait. We're a ghost-buster. We might be the crazy one here.
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>>34312018
As if, this is gonna be a night we'll never forget! Specifically, we will never forget all the information on Mae she'll be giving us.
>>
I should have gone to bed three hours ago. Stop writing so well.
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>>34312036
Exactly. Since we're crazy, we have a moral obligation to only stick it in crazy, otherwise we'd be sticking crazy into some poor innocent girl.

Ironclad logic.
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>>34311963
Let's see if she'll give Mom and Dad an out. If Dad ever finds his spine, and Mom accepts her kids no matter what, they can have their happy ending back.
It's no fun without giving them a sporting chance after all.
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>>34311963
I have a sneaking suspicion this is going to seriously bite us in the ass at some point.
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>>34312060
I feel you. Being East Coast is suffering
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>>34312029
>This is a problem why?
Because, as far we know, Naka and Jigari are normal enough people that they don't deserve to be shackled to the failures that are our dad and mom.

>Karma should be respected
Curses like this are usually accounted for by karma.
"If you didn't have such shit karma, you wouldn't have pissed off a powerful kitsune to curse you" kind of thing.
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>>34311963
>"You are not going to be my mate, but I am so taking you home this evening."

Awwwwww yeah, 'bout to get some hot fox loving tonight!

The others will understand. We needed to *AHEM* 'pump' her for information.
>>
>>34312031
Indeed, might not be as potent as the wisdom of the ancients, but quite powerful.

As the ancients say "A pure clean bed is tempting to sleep on."
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>>34312070
To be honest with out mom and dad, I'd rather just see if they're less terrible when they're with their respective extra-marital partners.

Like maybe they're just awful together.

Also, I'm inclined to feel more sympathy to our mother, because not understanding your kids is hardly unique.
>>
>>34311963
"You ARE a good brother." She smiles at you.

Kaede blinks. "What's...what's going on?"

"Umm...some things are happening." You say.

You explain what's going on, what Kuzu is, and what she wants to do.

"So, I thought it should also be your call." You say.

Kaede looks up at Kuzu. "Make them say what they said again."

Kuzu nods and has your Mom and Dad say what they said before.

"And that's not you?" Kaede asks Kuzu.

"I swear upon my tails." Kuzu says.

Kaede fidgets in her seat, and then sighs. "I don't want them to be miserable forever. They were happy at one point. They deserve a chance."

You snap your finger. Ghostbuster Protocol Manual to the rescue. "An escape clause."

"What?" Kuzu asks.

"Give the curse an escape clause." You say. "You know, 'True love's kiss', 'when the sky is set aflame', 'no man of woman born.' Say they have to do something to break the curse."

"Huh." Kuzu says. "Never did that...nice idea. What shall it be?"

Kaede shrugs.

> Well? You're about to curse your mother, father, and grandparents to an eternity of dull misery and watching other succeed where they fail. If you want to make Kaede happy, you can give the curse an escape clause. Lets face it, they deserve it.
> Or, you can show mercy and ask Kuzu to call it off. Kaede will go with you on this. Since she isn't totally into the idea. Also, it'll be a reminder that you're a Ghostbuster and a better person than the four of them.
> Other
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>>34312108
>Or, you can show mercy and ask Kuzu to call it off. Kaede will go with you on this. Since she isn't totally into the idea. Also, it'll be a reminder that you're a Ghostbuster and a better person than the four of them.
Eh, it's a waste of a curse anyway.
>>
>>34312093
Or something like that.
>>
>>34312108
>Well? You're about to curse your mother, father, and grandparents to an eternity of dull misery and watching other succeed where they fail. If you want to make Kaede happy, you can give the curse an escape clause. Lets face it, they deserve it.
They brought this on themselves, though I'd be down with an escape clause.
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>>34312080
>Because, as far we know, Naka and Jigari are normal enough people that they don't deserve to be shackled to the failures that are our dad and mom.
Sounds similar to what we thought of our parents before today when we were concerned about them killing themselves over honor.

Now we're almost fine with killing them. Almost, if not for it being inconvenient in a myraid of ways.

Naka and Jigari are either unforgivably bad judges of character, or likely just as bad as our parents.
>>
>>34312108

I'm thinking something like 'a true act of selflessness' or 'sacrificing one's own happiness for another.'
>>
>>34312108
They're already horrible people who are trying to bribe their children with supposed family unity and love.
> Well? You're about to curse your mother, father, and grandparents to an eternity of dull misery and watching other succeed where they fail. If you want to make Kaede happy, you can give the curse an escape clause. Lets face it, they deserve it.
Escape Clause: They begin to truly love each other, and take joy in each other.
>>
>>34312108
>Well? You're about to curse your mother, father, and grandparents to an eternity of dull misery and watching other succeed where they fail. If you want to make Kaede happy, you can give the curse an escape clause. Lets face it, they deserve it.
You're right, they deserve it. Honestly, I'm not sure they deserve an escape clause, but if Kaede wants one then might as well.
>>
>>34312108
Curse with an escape clause. Let karma do the work for them, something like "May the happiness you bring to others be returned to you".

Could even be a blessing if they get their shit together.
>>
>>34312160
Fuck that, they shouldn't feel obligated to do that for one another.

Especially if they never did in the first place.

Having a divorce is the least of their problems.
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>>34312157
I like the true act of selflessness.
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>>34312108
>You snap your finger. Ghostbuster Protocol Manual to the rescue.
Why don't we read this book more, it seems extremely useful and we ought to have more moments of insight like this...
>>
>>34312108
>Curse with an escape clause
Let's go with the gifts of Oz, yes?
The nerve, the heart, and the brain?
>>
>>34312108
>> Well? You're about to curse your mother, father, and grandparents to an eternity of dull misery and watching other succeed where they fail. If you want to make Kaede happy, you can give the curse an escape clause. Lets face it, they deserve it.
Give them the escape clause
>>
>>34312171
I like this. It's not necessarily a punishment, but for the grandparents it will be. Remember, our parents had to grow up with them in their lives, that deserves some pity.
>>
Or if we want to be particularly vicious/vengeful.

"Do something that is RIGHT without any gain."

Make them have to become a pariah like us in order to find happiness.
>>
>>34312171
Ooooh, a curse that goes like
"What you bring unto other be returned threefold unto you?"
>>
>>34312108
>Other
Time limit with an escape clause. Remember that we're still answerable to Ghostbusters HQ; we can't make them miserable forever.
They are to be cursed for 4 years, 4 months, and 4 days from now.
Or, they grow a spine to be a man of the Yamato ideal (for dad), truly accept her son and daughter (for mom), or learn to allow future generations to make their own choices (for grandma's).
>>
>>34312108
>call it off
"On second thought, I'd rather not waste a curse to do something that's already gonna happen to them regardless."

Also the "eternal" part could totally bite us in the ass.

>>34312178
>>34312157
Depending on your definition, "true act" might be impossible, especially if you consider the endorphin rush being good gives you.
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>>34312206
Changing my vote from >>34312160 to this.
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>>34312108
> Well? You're about to curse your mother, father, and grandparents to an eternity of dull misery and watching other succeed where they fail. If you want to make Kaede happy, you can give the curse an escape clause. Lets face it, they deserve it.

For Ma and Pa, if they realize what they can and cannot change, and learn to be at peace with it.

For Granny and Grandma, learning to let go. Letting go of their past, of their regrets, of their prejudices.
>>
>>34312108
>Other
Just curse The Hags, with an escape clause. Your parents can still be salvaged, and if they find out how close they came, it might even scare them straight.
>>
Allowing another being to curse someone else is STILL unethical and against our principles as a Ghosbuster.

But at least it's not killing them, and these people deserve it, so we can turn a blind eye to this one. Kali and the old Vampire are technically worse because they actually do kill people.
>>
>>34312216
This
Totally this
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>>34312216
Four years might be too short, but I agree with their being a time period. Like otherwise they could be miserable for hundreds of years, that's not good.
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>>34312216
I like this.
A Kitsune Curse should teach a lesson and isn't straight up Malicious.
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>>34312248
Is a curse any different than an industry blacklist in terms of ethics? Or a smear campaign?
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>>34312216
Yeah that works I suppose.
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>>34312277
Two wrongs don't make a right. But it has its uses.
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>>34312267
Yeah, 4 years sounds too short for this.
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>>34312108
I'm really inclined to call it off, especially since they really don't need our help to be awful.

>>34312246
This seems interesting, but kind of vague and open ended.
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>>34312313
I changed my mind, I'm pretty sure any length of time at all is technically too long, but "four years, or until they know better" might be good.

I'm not sure about our mom though, like I'd say just taking pride in her children being happy and successful, even if she doesn't get what they're doing, would be enough.
>>
>>34312230
Nah, man, you can't force them to love each other. Not being dicks is good enough.
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>>34312216
This sounds much better. That way if they can't solve the puzzle, they'd probably be stuck in a rut forever.

>>34312325
>This seems interesting, but kind of vague and open ended.
It's two AM, I'm tryin' my best, OK? -grumble...-
>>
>>34312211

Voting for this. Because then, we're not really cursing them so much as letting them curse themselves, or not as the case may be. It's still kind of morally grey, but it's not outright evil. We ARE the good guy, still.
>>
About the "cursing someone is unethical", the original Ghostbusters have let certain curses and hauntings of people they don't like continue.

There was that one charlatan who was bilking Ray's aunt, and whose fake seances were pissing off the real house spirits. They saw that one of the spirits was going to continue fucking with the dude at the end of the episode, but they just let it slide because they hated him.
>>
>>34312373
No no, I changed from loving each other to doing the right thing. I realize now that it looks like I did the reverse.
>>
Yeah, lets go with the "You get what you give" curse. It keeps our hands clean, and gives them an out if they start to be nice to each other.

So, pretty much unending for Grannies who deserve it, and with some hope that at least our parents might get better.
>>
>>34312420
There's a difference between letting it continue, and actively participating in it.
>>
>>34312420
And in the first place, we're not entirely that ethical anyway, at least if you consider our prices and business methods. Lest you forget your warranty on rehauntnigs expired, due to failing to get the extended warranty, as stated in our invoice(s).
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>>34312436
To each other? Fuck that.
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>>34312456
>>34312420
Which in this case we are even engineering the type of curse used on them.
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>>34312108
Eh, should we really keep these awful people together? Wouldn't letting this hideous joke of a family implode be the best solution?
>>
>>34312495
Eh, to people around them, but I figure getting them to be nice to each other would be an escape clause they would never escape.

Or maybe I just want to see them use their powers combined.
>>
Let's ask ourselves. WHY are we cursing them?

Out of spite? Or is there a good reason they need to be cursed?

If it's anything but the latter or anything like the former, we should NOT curse them at all.
>>
>>34312216
"Okay, first, give them a time limit." You say. "How about...4 years?"

"I'm doing 44." Kuzu says. "That's a lifetime for those two, and enough of a life for these two."

You look at Kaede. She nods.

"Okay, 44. And if Dad grows a spine...umm fulfills the Yamato Ideal. He'll be free. Mom has to truly accept us. And Grandma and Granny have to learn to allow future generations to make their own choices."

"They also have to be able to wake up and smile freely." Kaede says.

Kuzu nods. "Not bad. You sure you don't want to be adopted, Kaede?"

"I'm sure." Kaede says.

"Done." Kuzu snaps her fingers and you see what look like six flames burst into life behind her.

You're back at the table.

"Thank you for your time." Kuzu says. "I'll see you two later!" She gives you and your sister a wink and walks away.

"You two will not..." Grandma starts, but then breaks into a fit of coughing.

The rest of the day is wonderful. Karma has come to pass, and it is glorious. Grandma keeps having coughing fits when she wants to be snappish. Granny's nasty remarks result in her biting her tongue. Mom and Dad look the same, but every time they try to 'step outside for a smoke' they find that they can't...or when they try to 'call the office' their phones die.

And nothing they say to you or Kaede has anymore weight. They're paper dragons that have gotten soggy in the rain.

At the end of the day, Kaede gets two requests for further interaction, and you've gotten four...all of them from girls in their puberty.

You shouldn't be this eager to be going home with Kuzu, but your ego and sanity slightly need this.

Kuzu comes up to your parents, and you aren't sure what she said, probably it was magic, but they agree to let Kaede's new Foreign Language tutor take you and her away for the evening.

Kuzu and Kaede chat all the way in different languages on the ride home. She has a very nice SUV, plenty of room for kids.

(cont)
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>>34312108
>Or, you can show mercy and ask Kuzu to call it off. Kaede will go with you on this. Since she isn't totally into the idea. Also, it'll be a reminder that you're a Ghostbuster and a better person than the four of them.
>>34312566
Has the right of it. I don't think it'll actually make them better people, it's just to make us feel better about ourselves, especially if Kaede is reluctant.
>>
>>34312566
This would have been better told an hour ago anon.
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>>34312574
>She has a very nice SUV, plenty of room for kids.
Damn. And I thought that Japanese roads would be like Italian roads. Too small for anything but toy cars and the shame of the inhabitants.
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>>34312630
>Too small for anything but toy cars and the shame of the inhabitants.
That's how many side streets are. Main streets are large enough to handle an SUV, but you have to be a VERY good driver.
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>>34312574
I feel like preventing our parents from seeing other people is a bit harsh, provided it was actually a good relationship.
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>>34312585
Wait, she just agreed that 44 years is a good amount, which is eleven times longer than our suggestion.

...It's really too bad therapy is frowned up in Japan.
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>>34312661
We're not preventing them from seeing other people, just from running away from their problems. They don't have to stay with each other, they just have to face their mothers and their children.
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>>34312723
Kaede agreed to 44 without much complaint, even though she was reluctant about the curse in the first place.
Guess she really did feel a lot of resentment.
>>
>>34312661
It is kind of a dick move, but is there anything that says they can't have an amiable divorce later on after working out their issues, rather than this big neurotic bundle of lies?
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>>34312789
An amiable divorce would probably fulfill the conditions of the contract as well if they do it in a certain way.
Like I said, Kitsune Curses should teach a lesson. Those are always the best ones.
>>
>>34312574
Her apartment is very nice as well. Very 'modern business woman.' All white and black with overstuffed couches and a large TV.

Kuzu goes to the kitchen and starts cooking. "I did find a few men I think will be quite nice. Boring salarymen who are slaves to their careers, but I don't mind the father having to work all the time." She shrugs. "Anyway, this place is just a rental. I have a proper house, but that's for family. This is fun. Speaking of which."

She shudders and suddenly the black haired woman in the business suit is gone, and a woman with a black...well...mane is standing there. She's got fox ears poking out from her head, and she's wearing a black and gold kimono. Six black tails with white tips are behind her. She smiles at the two of you staring slack-jawed. You see that her teeth are now more pointed, and her eyes are golden.

"Can I touch them?" Kaede asks.

"Go ahead, little one." Kuzu says with a swish of her tails. "YOU can't." She points a long nailed finger at you. "Not yet, at least."

"They're so soft." Kaede says.

"Why do you have six?" You ask. "Shouldn't you have nine?"

"I had nine." Kuzu says. "But if a Kitsune sets foot upon soil that is not of the Emperor's, they lose three of them, and the power they hold."

"You gave up three of your tails, just to see the world?" Kaede asks.

Kuzu smiles. "Worth it. I'd do it again in a shot. It was that first trip where I learned all my special tricks and secrets. It's how I beat Mae."

You perk up. "Go on."

Kuzu makes you wait until dinner. It's just rice, vegetables, and fish, but in a very good sauce. "Singapore recipe." She says.

"So, about Mae." You say. "Do you know what she's doing? Is she connected to the missing Kami?"

Kuzu shrugs. "I don't know. She and I aren't on speaking terms, obviously." She sighs. "Anyway, I wouldn't be surprised. The only kitsune Mae hates more than me is Inari, and that's because Inari is always keeping kistune on the straight and narrow."

(cont)
>>
>>34312789
>but is there anything that says they can't have an amiable divorce later on after working out their issues
No, there isn't.
And that's the thing; there is nothing legally stopping them, and with the kids being old enough there's nothing socially stopping them (in modern Japan at least).
It's just their own stupid selves stopping them.
>>
>>34312832
Kaede is just adorable.
>>
>>34312832
>Inari is always keeping kistune on the straight and narrow.
I guess you really do need to be a bit of a bitch to keep sociopathic power-mad kitsune in line. Can't really fault Inari for it, then.
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>>34312832
>"But if a Kitsune sets foot upon soil that is not of the Emperor's, they lose three of them, and the power they hold."
Note to self, we can use this.
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>>34312832
Hmm, I wonder is Kuzu the one the dickless bastards wanted us to take out? We should tell her that PCOC wanted us to take you down, but we declined the job
>>
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>>34312832
>"Can I touch them?" Kaede asks.
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>>34312890
>Hmm, I wonder is Kuzu the one the dickless bastards wanted us to take out?
What? No, of course not.
That job was for Okinawa; Kuzu is in Tokyo, and her house is in Shinoda, of Izumi in Osaka.
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>>34312887
Would an Embassy count?
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>>34312950
Possibly, another more radical alternative is to convince the National Diet to sell Tokyo and buy it back the next day.

Granted, we might get more than just Tamamo as a kitsune with that.
>>
>>34312832
>"Not yet, at least."

Note to self; if she invites in to a more private room, and we catch sight of chains and leather straps, just fucking run.
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>>34312832
Would it be wrong to ask some questions about the nature of Kitsune and other Youkai?

As in something we do over the timeskip between next episode, and can be put down as notes or in a book for reference.
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>>34312832
>>She shudders and suddenly the black haired woman in the business suit is gone, and a woman with a black...well...mane is standing there. She's got fox ears poking out from her head, and she's wearing a black and gold kimono. Six black tails with white tips are behind her.

Oh so she's less golden glory and more Pic Related.

I regret nothing.
>>
>>34312950
Kind of iffy. Legally that's another nation's land, but spiritually it might still count as the Emperor's.
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>>34312999
Come on man, live a little.
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>>34313010
Spirtualism and legalism are intertwined.
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>>34313003
Why not just ask if she wants to write a book, or have Kaede be her biographer?
>>
>>34312887
Wait, do you suppose Kali has a coffin with her native soil stashed somewhere? And would just laying down a solid layer of it on a floor count?
>>
>>34313036
That works too. It'd be good to learn more about the hidden world of Youkai.

>>34313045
I think in this case "soil" means "territory" and not in the literal sense.
>>
>>34313030
>>34313010
New guy butting in, how about throwing soil she gets on her next trip to somewhere else?
>>
>>34312832
"You know Kojoro?" She asks. "The maid? Yeah, that was the equivalent of community service." She chuckles. "Inari make that little brat sweep that temple for four years. She does, or did, stuff like that. There's really no difference between a kitsune and a nogitsune. Good kitsune are either being punished by Inari or are trying to suck up to her. Nogitsune are kitsune who haven't been caught. Yet."

"Isn't she a kami, can't she just stop them before they do bad things, or make them be good?" Kaede asks.

Kuzu shakes her head. "Doesn't work like that. I don't doubt if she could, she would, but it doesn't work like that."

"So, what is Mae after?" You ask.

"Well, she wants to rule. She'll feed you a line about female dominance, and liberation, and yokai/human equality, and it'll sound good and it'll probably even be true...but it's bullshit. She believes that she's the smartest and the best, and only she has the proper vision for the world...by which she means Japan." Kuzu shakes her head. "She REALLY wants to be God. Not just a Kami, but God-God. I shudder to think what she would want if she got to that level, because I feel that wouldn't even be enough for her."

"So, what are her weaknesses?" You ask.

"Well, you first have to understand her strengths." Kuzu says, as she finishes up dinner. "Help me clean."

You all pitch in the clean the dishes. "First, she's smarter than you. She's got an amazing IQ, and she's versed in just about everything. Second, she's more powerful than you. She's a Nine-Tailed Kitsune. Only Kami and She-Who-I-Dare-Not-Mention," Kuzu covers half of her face. "Surpass her power...maybe the Emperor, but that's a different kind of power. Finally, she's better in combat than you are. She's been in a bunch of fights, and she's won plenty, and lost plenty, and she's learned from her losses every time. No trick works twice on Mae. I know this for a fact."

(cont)
>>
>>34313059
>I think in this case "soil" means "territory" and not in the literal sense.
Faeries in western lore are often undone by wordplay like this. I kinda expect eastern to do that somewhat as well
>>
>>34313060
If I take some soil from Japan and throw it on the ground in America and step on it, I'm still on American soil.

Likewise the moment I cross the border into Mexico, I am no longer on American soil.
>>
>>34313063
So . . . we have to cheat. A lot. And no half-measures, there's no such thing as overkill in this situation.
>>
>>34313086
>If I take some soil from Japan and throw it on the ground in America and step on it, I'm still on American soil.
That's what we refer to as Manifest Destiny.
>>
>>34313101
It ain't a fair fight if you loose.
>>
>>34313063
So nine tailed kitsune>dragons?

Good to know.

Also it explains why Inari made it so any Kitsune who leaves Japan would have their power capped, because if she can't boss them around, she's not gonna let them steamroll everything.
>>
>>34313101
Arguably one solution would be to wait until she's doing some major ritual that could spectacularly blow up in her face, bump her elbow then run like hell.
>>
>>34313063
Great. So we have to effectively fight Evil Batman.
>Maybe the Emperor, but that's a different kind of power
Oh god, if we could get the Emperor to say something like 'Mae, knock that shit off and go away'....
>>
>>34313063
Hey, question... If a Kitsune loses three of her tails when touching soil not of the emperor, could that mean soil that is taken from somewhere other then Japan?
>>
>>34313079
So we carry some throwing soil, and if possible and we fight her, we find a way to lure her to an embassy.
Embassies are considered native soil of the nation they represent.
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>>34313152
I imagine his power is like King Arthur in the Excalibur movie. "He and the land are one" or something like that.

Command over all the loyal mystics and warriors and creatures of Japan. Maybe not the unloyal ones, since the old emperor still had to call on exorcists to hunt and kill Tam the first time.


He's still mortal though, and all it takes is one well placed bullet or a single drop of poison.
>>
>>34313205
That, or as previously mentioned, convince the Emperor/National Diet to "Sell Tokyo to a foreign power for a period of exactly 1 day, to be purchased again after 1 day."

That day being the finale night of the bloody moons.
>>
>>34313205
We really shouldn't rely on either of those.

Remember that she knows that weakness as well, and is likely prepared for it.

I wonder if Kuzu knows of any other nine-tailed foxes, and what they're like?
>>
>>34313203
>Hey, question... If a Kitsune loses three of her tails when touching soil not of the emperor, could that mean soil that is taken from somewhere other then Japan, then brought into Japan? Like, if I shook her hand when I'm covered in dirt from Colorado, for example?
>>
>>34313063
"Example?" You ask.

"Well, I know that a bit before World War One, she was causing trouble and some exorcists took her out by getting soil from China, bringing it here, and getting her to walk upon it." Kuzu says. "It didn't take her tails, but it sapped her power long enough for her to be defeated." She sighs. "So now, Mae makes her shoes with a layer of soil sewn into them. That way she's always walking upon Japan. She'd have to actively step upon another country's soil for her to lose her power.

"Which brings me to her first big, obvious weakness. She's insanely nationalist. If something doesn't come from Japan, it's barely worth her interest. She has no problem with modern things, or things that have been 'reworked' into Japanese things, but don't ever expect her in a McDonalds." Kuzu nods. "I've beaten her by using all the tricks and magic I've learned from around the world."

"And she hasn't come back for revenge?" You ask.

"That brings me to weakness number two. She's a coward at heart. She'll claim that she never seeks revenge because it's a waste of time a resources, and stuff like that. Nah. Bull. She'll never go up against someone who beat her because she's afraid of losing again. Any fight she goes into, she's already devoted time and resources into planning an escape. If she even suspects that there's a chance she could lose, she'll bail. She'll only start a fight if she's backed into a corner, or if she knows she can win.

"That said, never trust her. She's a habitual liar, and can convince blue that it's orange. Any attempt at surrender is a ruse, and any claim of redemption is a lie. That's how she got free of the killing stone she was stuck in. That priest didn't offer her salvation, he offered her a way out and she took it." Kuzu says.

"Anything else?" You ask.

"Well, she's a sociopath. So she can't understand empathy. She knows about it, and knows how to exploit it...but she can't feel it and she can't understand it."

(cont)
>>
>>34313249
That seems... really silly.

Like I don't think there will be an answer that easy.
>>
>>34313210
Yes, he is a man, but he is also the Emperor, who is, at least sprititually, the supreme power of Japan. That doesn't mean he can fly and shoot laser beams, but that the Emperor's Word is law.
Have him saw the right words and we can win without fighting. Trouble is, that is HER plan as well.
>>
>>34313251
Note to self: Put dirt in her shoes.
>>
>>34313251
No quarter asked or given. Alright, we can play that game and I imagine some will be quite happy for that license to kill.
>>
>>34313264
>Have him saw the right words and we can win without fighting.
Or at least make it a lot easier. If it were that simple, we wouldn't have various ghost stories of Emperors calling on exorcists to help solve their various spiritual problems, as mentioned, not being able to stop Tamamo-no-mae without calling in exorcsist to actually kill her.
>>
>>34313251
>So now, Mae makes her shoes with a layer of soil sewn into them.

Well fuck.

>If something doesn't come from Japan, it's barely worth her interest.

Ah, good ol' fashioned nihonronjin, or however that's spelled.
>>
>>34313361
Still think it'd not be a bad idea to have pic related in the back of the YOMI-1 in case we ever blast her shoes off.

Hell, don't just make it foregin sole, get some moondust and make it ALIEN soil not even from earth.
>>
>>34313384
*moondust having not been exposed to soak up thousands of years of human PKE might be able to act like a perfect energy sponge.
>>
>>34313251
"And, of course, she thinks she's right all the time. So if you find a hole in her plan, she'll never see it until it's way too late. At which point she'll bail and flee." Kuzu says. "And...I think that's it."

"That's not that much." You say.

"Well, Mae isn't exactly your average tanuki, kappa, or tengu." Kuzu shrugs. "It's not a weakness, but she also dislikes red ginger. Doesn't like the taste." She shrugs. "She isn't allergic or warded by it. She just thinks its gross."

"Never know what could be helpful." You say. "Umm, do you know anything about...Her?" You cover half your face.

"No." Kuzu says flatly, and don't ask me about her again.

"Okay, got it." You say. Your phone rings. It's Sato and, presumably, the guys. "I need to take this."

"Sure, Kaede and I need to have OUR talk anyway!" Kuzu says cheerfully.

You walk to the side and answer the phone. "Hey guys, everything okay?"

"Yeah. Where are you? Your date run long?" Sato asks.

You laugh a little. "Kinda. I may be late back to the factory...or there next morning."

"Wedding bells to come?" Sato jokes. "As the ancients say 'A broken in bed is always more comfortable for the bride.' Or something like that."

"No, no." You say. "Just...just one of those things."

"I bet." Sato says. "Anyway, job went fine. We freed the World Tree and cleaned up the maid cafe, they even forgave us for the property damage."

"How nice of them."

"Yeah, well, screaming flowers and tentacle vines change peoples tones quickly." Sato says. "But there's a bit of a catch."

"What is it?" You ask.

"The Aluraune wants to make a deal." Sato says. "We don't bust it, and it'll give us 'Her Master's secret plan' and she promises to leave Japan forever and to never take another human life. We had her say it three times, to enforce it."

"Opinions?" You ask.

(cont)
>>
We need to get a dog to help us sniff out other kitsune. Also, dogs mess with their heads. Kitsune may also be exposed while in human form by their fear and hatred of dogs, and some become so rattled by their presence that they revert to the form of a fox and flee.

Alternatively, we can look for her hoshi no tama, but she's probably paranoid as shit about that.

So, yeah. Those are the only two traditional weaknesses I can find.
>>
>>34313414
>"The Aluraune wants to make a deal." Sato says. "We don't bust it, and it'll give us 'Her Master's secret plan' and she promises to leave Japan forever and to never take another human life. We had her say it three times, to enforce it."
I don't believe we should negotiate with murderers nor should we let them go just because they give us something we want.
>>
>>34313414
Sounds legit.
>>
>>34313414
"What you expect. Star thinks it's a good idea, and Akira wants to bust it. I said call you." He says.

"Alright, anything else?" You ask.

"Well, we finally got that creepy connection to P-COC." Sato says. "Whomever there is manipulating things? They're screwing with nearly everyone there. Yokai and Humans are being conned. The aluraune only got to know more because the 'master' could wipe out the grove and the World Tree. The plant says that's how the master works, the more control he has on you, the more info you're given. The plant says that most of P-COC has no idea."

"Did we get a name?" You ask, though you have obvious suspicions.

"Nah, geas. Plant can't tell us." He sighs. "But the registry is going to be used during the conjunction to force nearly all of the exorcists and spiritualists in Japan to do one thing. Defend their own homes, and anyone who seeks their sanctuary."

"That's it?" You ask.

"Yeah, apparently whomever is doing this doesn't want the usual 'wipe us all out' bit. They want a fraction of the people alive, and they want them all to know that they owed their safety to mystical and magical power."

"Huh." You say. "Plant was very forthcoming."

"Yeah, well, she's kind of desperate for us to believe her." Sato says. "She says she can deliver us a physical copy of 'The Plan' by midnight. Said it three times too. So...what's the call?"

> Take the deal.
> Bust the plant.
> Other
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>>34313498
>Take the deal.
Provided that she goes to a place with a Ghostbusters branch, and agrees to be placed on their watchlist.
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>>34313498
> Take the deal.
But get ready for an ambush at midnight.

We found , not exactly an ally, more a neutral party who has information about the leader of whoever infiltrated P-COC.
>>
>>34313498
>Take the deal
We need that intel and we need it bad.
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>>34313498
>> Bust the plant.
If it were a human, we wouldn't let it go. Why should we treat it any differently?
>>
>>34313498
>Take the deal.
Put her on a watchlist and we'll take it, otherwise no deal.
>>
>>34313537
Unit 731.
>>
>>34313498
>Other
Have Akira go full Jack Bauer on them for info, then throw their asses in solitary.
>>
>>34313527
>>34313532
>>34313536
>>34313539
Fine then. I suppose all it takes to get away with murder is to bribe whoever can catch you.

If it had been Star or Akira that had been swallowed and digested, taken away from their grieving families and friends forever, I wonder if we'd be in a similar tune. But a man is a tragedy, and a million are a statistic I suppose.
>>
>>34313498
>Take the deal.
Nothing the original Ghostbusters wouldn't have done.
>>
>>34313565
We need the intel on The Plan, it sucks that she sorta gets off but it can't be helped if we're gonna save Japan. Looking at the big picture it's a pretty obvious choice to make.
>>
>>34313565
An eye for for an eye leaves everyone blind. We can't save those already dead, but it has bound itself now and we'll be watching. If it makes a move again, we will deal with it. But right now we have bigger worries.
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>>34313588
The original ghostbusters wouldn't even consider this an option.
>>
>>34313565
>But a man is a tragedy, and a million are a statistic I suppose.
We're saving a million, and the dead are already dead and getting "justice" for them seems selfish to endanger a million still-living.
>>
>>34313606
>>34313607
>>34313614
This altruistic way of thinking goes against Daisuke's character, who wouldn't pervert justice or not do the right thing just because it would spare more peoples lives.
>>
>>34313648
How is this perverting justice? We're letting the small fry go (and she'll still be under watch) so that we can bust the big boss. There's nothing unjust about that, hell real cops do it all the time.
>>
>>34313648
>who wouldn't pervert justice or not do the right thing just because it would spare more peoples lives.
No, this is perfectly in line with Daisuke's past.
He's willing to have some people die (the people whose lives he wrecked and who died because of the scandal) in order to stop the greater threat (expose the corruption).

Daisuke doesn't care if a few people die in his pursuit of what he thinks is right.
>>
>>34313532
"Take the deal, but register her PKE signature, and put her on a watch list for the others." You say. "Also, be ready for an ambush at midnight, maybe call Kali for backup."

"Got it." There's a moment. "Akira's pissed. No surprise."

"Yeah." You sigh. "Look, you know that rule about how we don't let Akira ride his horse down the street? Let him ride Musashi until he feels better."

"Musashi's getting kind of plump out in the back too, exercise would be good for him." Sato agrees. "Okay, have fun."

He hangs up.

A furry tail wraps around your stomach and gently pulls you back to facing Kuzu. "The business doing well?"

"Doing well by doing good." You say with a smile. You look over and see that Kaede is sleeping on the pull-out bed.

"Girl has had a full day." Kuzu says as she leads you towards the bedroom. Her tail still gently, but firmly, around you. "I'm impressed at how well you two managed, despite growing up in that hell. I know what did it though."

"Hard work and determination?" You ask.

"Yes, that..." Kuzu says. "But also, passion. You have a passion for living. I like that in people."

Kuzu's bedroom is like the rest of her apartment, simple, clean, and comfortable. It's a western style bed, that's very large and wide, and has clean white sheets.

"Now..." Kuzu grins as one of her tails closes the door. "Shall we?"

You nod.

- - -
"Behold!" Sachiko cries as she sees you from the gate of her temple. "The Ghostbuster walk of shame!"

You flip her off and go into the factory.

The other three are pouring over a three ring binder, and they don't look as amused as the priestess was.

"Oh, good you're back." Akira says. "Okay. I take back being pissed about the plant. We NEEDED to see this."

"Why?" You ask. "What is it?"

"Well, it's P-COC's plan on how to integrate yokai with society." Star says.

"Yeah, I read about that." You say. "There something wrong with it?"

"If P-COC does this?" Sato says. "It'll cause World War III."

END EPISODE 31
>>
>>34313659
Real cops don't let murderers go just because they promise them they won't do it again. Even informants still serve their time.

And there's nothing she said about being under watch, she just wants to leave.

>>34313690
The corruption wasn't stopped because it was a greater threat, it was stopped because it needed to be stopped.

More people died because of Daisuke's actions than if he remained silent.
>>
>>34313648
One could also argue that Daisuke's the guy that's willing to make the calls that would keep most people up at night for the sake of the greater good.
>>
>>34313701
...Well then it's a good thing we know about it! How do we stop it?
>>
>>34313701
>"Okay. I take back being pissed about the plant. We NEEDED to see this."
>>34313723
Feel like a dumbass yet?
>>
>>34313701
>Akira
>Apologizing for not getting to kick some spiritual ass

This can't fucking possibly be good.
>>
>>34313701
>"If P-COC does this?" Sato says. "It'll cause World War III."
You know what'd be great? If that part WASN'T Tamamo-no-mae's plan (she just wanted a different, but equally horrible course of events), but instead just completely came from her willful ignorance of international politics
>>
>>34313701
Okay, we've got the plan. We've got less than thirty days to poke holes in it.
>>
>>34313701
Thanks for the thread, GM
>>
>>34313749
No, because I still believe even if we ended up saving more peoples lives and this will be a great boon to us, we still did an evil to do a greater good. Even if Akira suddenly had a change of heart, I don't.
>>
>>34313778
Dude, if fucking AKIRA of all people thinks we made the right call in letting her go I think it's pretty obvious that we did the right thing.
>>
>>34313701
NEXT EPISODE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 28TH, 3-5PM PST
>>
>>34313813
And I still say that if it had been Kaede eaten, we would never have accepted this deal.

But nameless faceless people we'll never see don't warrant our attention I suppose, especially if their letting their deaths go in vain will save more people.
>>
>>34313776
It's a hell of a lot more than Ghostbusters usually get, so I'm confident that it will be plenty.
>>
>>34313701
>cause World War III
She's going to try to restore the Empire of Japan and set about rebuilding the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere?

Can we have the Public Security Intelligence Agency's Astrological Forecast Department make a house call?
>>
>>34313829
>will save more people
That right there is the key phrase to this whole thing. Those people are already dead and nothing we do will bring them back, but if we can get off the 'muh vengeance' train for a second it's pretty fucking clear that we can save a hell of a lot of lives this way. If she was holding a victim that we let her walk away with I might agree with you but under the circumstances this was the smart decision to make.
>>
>>34313701
>"Now..." Kuzu grins as one of her tails closes the door. "Shall we?"
>
>You nod.

That night, Daisuke found out the answer to the question: What does the fox say? Once for every tail of hers. Oh, yeah!

>>34313817
You make me So Happy It's Thursday. See you then!

>>34313829
Tree bitch said so herself, they don't eat the girls, just the guys.
>>
>>34313701
>"Behold!" Sachiko cries as she sees you from the gate of her temple. "The Ghostbuster walk of shame!"

I see bromance
>>
>>34313863
Why bother with giving murders and criminals prison time at all then? Just keep them all on tabs and probation and let em go if they promise not to kill anyone anymore.
>>
Isn't it basically in lock down/ house arrest? It is bound to the new rules, and we'll be keeping an eye on it, so it's not like it got to walk off with all the charges dropped.
>>
>>34313817
While we have you here, were you upset you didn't get the chance to do whatever setpiece you had planned that involved an 18-wheel truck and The Touch?
>>
>>34313895
It's not as if their victims are already dead and nothing we can do will bring them back, and it would save us a lot of money that could be used for better purposes.
>>
>>34313902
House arrest has the word house in it. This one is free to roam the world so long as it stops hurting anyone.

In essence it's saying "you killed people but helped us, so we'll give you a slap on the wrist and let you go as long as you never do it again." and creates precedence for others to do the same.
>>
>>34313909
Never say never. There's plenty more chances.
>>
>>34313895
That's not exactly the same thing, we don't have to worry about recidivism with her since she's both supernaturally bound by her word, which is a lot more conclusive than anything you can do to a human criminal without killing them, plus most criminals don't offer up the chance to save the entire fucking country on a silver platter when you catch up to them.
>>
>>34313909
>>34313962
Wait what? When/how was that going to go down?
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>>34313962
Neat. So, getting out of the habit of giving quotes from the next episode; is that because of the players' ability to take things so far off the rails you're no longer in the same country made it hard to work them in to the story?
>>
>>34313970
>plus most criminals don't offer up the chance to save the entire fucking country on a silver platter when you catch up to them.
Then in essence you can get away with just about anything so long as you offer a greater reward. The death of a million? You can walk out as long as we can permanently bind you to never harm anyone and you helped save the world.
>>
>>34313608
>The original ghostbusters wouldn't even consider this an option.
They have run from potential problems before.
Like an entire town full of vampires and werewolves.
Then there was Necksa, which caused a lot of havoc with the city's water pipes.
>>
>>34314010
Pretty much.
>>
>>34313989
I'd have to look up the archive to be sure, but it was hinted at somewhere between episodes three and six.
>>
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>>34314056
>implying that isn't true regardless
Passing over the death of a million or even millions is worth it to save the world, basically looking over any crime is acceptable if the fucking world is in danger.
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>>34314066
One last question, since I honestly should have been ready for sleep two hours ago; do you go in to these things with an overall plan for where the story is going, and adapt to the players, or do you improvise and see where things go?
>>
>>34314091
Except if they hurt Kaede, we'd burn their ass to ash if they touched her no matter what they offered.

It doesn't matter anyway, we did the right thing here and will do it again if offered. Daisuke is never wrong about his sense of justice.
>>
>>34314134
There's a plan. A vague framework. I know what's happening next episode. I know what's going to happen on the conjunction. I know what Mae is doing to hide the Kami. There are two or three solutions to everything that I hint towards...but apart from that, I just go with it.

Like for today all I went in with was 'Plant Girl is an Aluraune. Invited to wedding speed dating. Hateful grandparents, nothing parents. Kitsune is at the place who has intel on Mae.' That was it. The rest was on the spot.
>>
>>34314206
Just to clarify for some others, more people would have died if Daisuke didn't stop the corruption right GhostMaster? Will we ever find out more about exactly what happened that day?
>>
>>34314206
Well then thank you for you time and effort, we've all really appreciated it.

...you know, for someone who drank his way out of getting a journalism degree, it's frigging annoying how comfortable it is to fall in to "softball interview" mode.
>>
>>34314245
You mean what got him into this whole mess?

No. In fact, if Daisuke had kept his mouth shut, 12 people would still be alive. Although, there's a difference between causative and responsible.

I prefer to keep the details as light as possible on the incident. But Daisuke opened up Pandora's box on one scandal, which led to another, and another, and so on. Basically a lot of people were lying and doing bad things, and a lot of people threw other people under the bus. A "I'm not so bad, look at what THIS guy is doing!" kind of thing. Daisuke was just the guy who pushed the first domino.
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>>34314434
They died for the greater good I guess then, it had to be done.
>>
>>34314491
The only justice is what's good for everyone, the many come before the few.
>>
>>34314527
>>34314491
So Daisuke is a utilitarianist? Good to know

>>34313970
Prisons don't exist out of fear of recidivism, they exist as a form of punishment for wrongdoings, otherwise there would not be such a thing as parole or pardons.



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