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File: Ryukuza Quest.jpg (123 KB, 1144x532)
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Stage 173:

There are large holes in you.

A fair number of them.

Enough that even with regenerative powers as good, perhaps better than a Wood dragonette's, you are not healing very fast at all. Minor cuts are being ignored by your healing capability, when they would normally heal in minutes or seconds. You are currently wrapped up I enough ace bandages under your clothing that it would not be a far stretch to try out for a part in any movie staring an ancient Egyptian princess as the long dead star of the show, wandering about unsolicited. There is more of your power being used to keep your organs and muscles in place than you would usually use to create storms. You have just finished four tiers of barrier combat, and you're absolutely exhausted.

Still, you stand before Shinkai Yamada and the mercenary bodyguard called Tachibana with your mon-decorated jacket and belt in and a sleek black business suit and your mukade=spirit infested wakizashi as though nothing more troublesome than a butterfly bandage on your forehead is amiss. You have dispatched not only the nue-child Natto, but also the horrific abomination that was once Yamada-sama's bodyguard Hiei. You did so in what appeared to them mere seconds, if that, and you are wearing the biggest, toothiest grin you can muster.

Placing one hand on the hilt of your sword, you look down at the terrified Yakuza thug, very much aware that simply killing him will anger the boss of the Shinkai clan to an intolerable extent. Tachibana stands up, facing towards the side, his arms outstretched and ready for a fight. With a smirk, you incline your head, studying his stance. He's got real skill, and he's perfectly aware you're more than a match for him, yet he's still ready to go the distance. “That's some real nice loyalty you got there. It would be a shame if it got....misplaced.”

Your name is Ryuu Ryukusa, head of the Ryuu Clan of misfit dragonettes, oni-children, nogitsune children, and you're pretty certain you should be under professional medical supervision in a hospital at this very moment.

[] Cut him with expert skill, see how strong Natto's lieutenants actually are.
[] Talking is probably your safest and best option at this very moment.
[] Tell them to beat it – you'll see them at the official meeting, and the play is going to start soon.
[] Tachibana s only human – you can defeat him instantly, and should do so without harming him.
[] A few throwing darts and knives should suffice to make your point t\hat Yamada is at your (distinctly lacking) mercy.
>>
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Twitter: @XsQuestmistress

Previous Thread: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2015777/

Interlude: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/37879167/

Kissing! http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/574453/

Threads in Chronological Order, including writeups by XS : http://pastebin.com/Z53TyK0N
or search for tag: Ryukuza on Suptg

Megaupload of the RTF document of Ryukusa Quest (links to archive included): https://mega.nz/#!d2xySaAJ!jUydCgDx6Q68PH6u4L_qFR03IhSGrAxak_m0PBorN5o

Barrier Combat Guide: http://pastebin.com/rZLwzvGx

>Ryukusa's Treasures

Her name: Ryuu Yorihokura

Rie, the God's Eye Nekomata that protects your Family.

Matagama-no-Shitoki, a necklace kami in its own right that protects Ryukusa from inimical magic.

Ame-no-Omukade-no-Musume – Ryukusa's mukade possessed wakizashi; a kami. “Daughter of my Centipede of Rain.”

Gendai-no-Muteki-no-Buki - Invincible Weapon of the Present Age, a secret kami-blade given to Ryukusa by Wakaba that appears to be made of some alloy of titanium.

Seido-no-Shinpi-Tekina-Ken – a mysterious bronze sword given to Ryukusa by the mermaids of Japan; actually found to be the legendary blade Ame-no-Ohabari.

Go-Yurei-no-Rensa, the Five-Ghost-Chain, used to summon or send messages to your (actual) older sister Ryuu Nabiki.

Her Penthouse in the Secret Apartments of Tsathoggua in Shikoku prefecture, Tokyo.

Shikoku Naya, her fashion teacher and seamstress.

Hisaka Subaru, her weaver and dressmaking teacher.

Ryukusa's Family.

>Talismans:
Akari – Black Jade Centipede (Mukade)
Er Yin – Black Jade Scorpion (Sasori)
Kiki – Black Jade Toad (Hikigaeru)
Kiku – Black Jade Lizard (Tokage)
Yui – Black Jade Snake (Hebi)
Inau – Black Coral Ear Cuff (Amatsukami)
>>
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Ryuu Ryukusa is tall at 5' 8"; 6' in her true form. She is fully grown. Lesbian top.
Matagama Kiku is 4' 1” for ever and ever. Lesbian submissive.
Ryuu Akari is 5' 3" and has another few inches to grow. Sexuality is weird, switch, cosplayer.
Ryuu Yui is 6' 3” and will only grow due to circumstances beyond her control. Dyke, switch.
Ryuu Kiki is 5' 6" and is at full growth. Bisexual bottom.
Er Yin Long is the tall at 5' 10" and is fully grown. Lesbian dominant.
Ryuu Jinyuu is 5' 7" but persistently hovers an extra three inches. Straight.
Hinata-hakase is 6' 3". Sexuality is terrifying.
Hidesato is 5' 5". Straight.
Kushinada is 5' 8". Straighter.
Taisho Ryoga is 5' 9". Who knows.
Hyun Chisato is 5' 4” and is fully grown. Lolicon with plausible deniability.
Rie, just Rie, is 8” tall or 5' 5” and is fully cat. Her sexuality is cat.
Hagyu Genso is 12' 5” standing upright. He is by and large gay.
Mizumi Shoko is 7' 2” is fully grown. Bisexual top.
Yuuhi is 4'11” and is fully grown. Yuuhi a cute.
Tokei Isusangi, Inau-kun is 5' 3” and is much less confused.
Reiha is 5' 5 1/2” and is milfy.
Peta is 3' 2” Peta is \>.</ aka Her Most Imperial Highness Patanjali Piri Yokuhime Kuronogitsune Pa
Detective-san aka Mugon Chujo is fully grown at 5'11” and straight.
Kenji Soomi is 5' 4” and gothic lolita.
Musumi Kanako is 5' 6.5” and is pretty straight.
Hebiki Naoto is 5' 9” and belligerently omnivorous, sexually. You hope only sexually.
Kodachi Umetsume is 5' 4” and fully grown. Practicing asexual.
Melinda Blitzenberg is scattered to the winds and blessed in death.
Toshida Ginka is 5” 3” and fully grown. Turtles have a reputation.
Ryuu Wakaba is a head shorter and also deceased.
Margaret Steinhausen is gratefully dead.
Ryuu Sakumo is dead and spread far and wide.
Ryuu Nabiki is 5' 3” and fully transformed. Embarrassingly straight.
Ryuu Shinju is 4' 11” and fully grown. She is coy, maybe a dodomeki-child.
Ryuu Himeyuri is 5' 5” and is supposedly straight.
Ryuu Fuuta is 5' 6” and slightly less soft.
Kaga Kei is 5' 4” and fully grown. Might be experimental.
Kyubi-san is 6' 3” and fully grown. Hard to say.
Hisaka Subaru is 5' tall and 9' tall, and peculiar as all get out.
Shikoku Naya is 5' 4" (not including heels) and is fully grown. Entirely flexible.
Shinkai Yamada is 5' 7” and is straight.
Shinkai Mikurabe is 5' 2” (without heels) and is probably less straight than you thought.
"Shinkai" Hiei is a possible curse in the Theater.
"Shinkai" Serious Onii-san is 5' 6" and is asexual.
"Shinkai" Yoshihano is 6' 1" and may be a little gay.
Tachibana is 5” 7” and mostly asexual.
Natto is a wisp of black smoke in the wind.
>>
>>2055566
Ryukusa time!
>[x] Tachibana is only human – you can defeat him instantly, and should do so without harming him.
Let's just make sure Yamada is properly cowed before we send him off til the meeting at least.
>>
>>2055566
>[] Tachibana s only human – you can defeat him instantly, and should do so without harming him.
>>
>>2055566
>[] Tell them to beat it – you'll see them at the official meeting, and the play is going to start soon.
>>
>>2055566
>[] Tachibana s only human – you can defeat him instantly, and should do so without harming him.
>>
>>2055566
>[x] Tachibana s only human – you can defeat him instantly, and should do so without harming him.
Also make time for some words probably.
>>
>>2055566
>[] Tell them to beat it – you'll see them at the official meeting, and the play is going to start soon.
>>
>>2055566
>[] Cut him with expert skill, see how strong Natto's lieutenants actually are.
Morning XS gope youre doing well
>>
>>2055626
>gope
Hope sorry
>>
>>2055566
>[] Talking is probably your safest and best option at this very moment.

>Ask Yamada what he planned to do with Tachibana, given what happened to the other human under his service.
>>
How are you, XS?
>>
>>2055566
...Shit I just noticed that the Stage title is left blank. That seems... bad.
>>
>>2055758
Bad or good or oversight, who knows! We should probably be on guard though.
>>
>>2055776
Oops wrong thread. Deleting.
>>
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[XX] Tachibana is only human – you can defeat him instantly, and should do so without harming him.
[X] Tell them to beat it – you'll see them at the official meeting, and the play is going to start soon.
[+] Might want to give Tachibana a little warning about Yamada's evil!

“Sho Chiku Bai, huh? Kenpo, looks like Shorinji Style. You have a good grasp of the methods, and I have to say that I'm impressed by your dedication. Two, three dan, I'd say, just from your stance.” He clenches and releases his fist, his understanding of both the hard and soft techniques of the original karate style pretty impressive. “Does your master know you've stopped following The Eight Fold Path?”

Tachibana grits his teeth but otherwise keeps his stance soft and fluid.

“I see.” You're inside his defenses before he can even respond to your movement, and while he is fast, you're faster. So when his hands move to slam into your shoulders, yours are already between his and spreading his arms wide, before you bring them in close and almost topple him with a simple Ba Gua two handed push. He staggers but you're already moving stepping forward and striking face and solar plexus, snapping his neck back and driving the breath from his lungs. Another step and you're doing the same thing with opposite hands, and he goes down, gasping for breath through a bruised throat and trying to recover his breathing and normalize it.

The other Yakuza thugs in the hallways are all staring, including Sharp Dressed Man With Nice Tie – another spirit child, and very capable of hiding his true nature even from you – and Serious Onii-san, who is quite alarmed by what he's witnessed so far, and is merely human.

“Only three steps? You should be able to manage at least six at your level of skill! Tell your teacher you need remedial lessons, Tachibana-san; that was not even half my strength using an internal style!” Yamada is gaping at you, and you turn to him, taking off your jacket. “You on the other hand....I'll deal with you later, Yamada. You have a lot to answer for, and my sukeban is going to make your bancho look like a kindly old saint who is very gentle.”

“Who the hell is your boss!?” he asks angrily, getting to his feet finally.

“Amaterasu-Omikami, and she is very unhappy with you. I hope you don't do to Tachibana what you did to Hiei....it doesn't seem to have ended well for him.”

He starts towards you and you give him a pitying look as you lay your hand on the handle of Omukade-san. Tachibana grabs him by the arm and covers his throat, his voice a distressed croak. “No! She won't....she won't kill you....but if you attack....she can defend....”
>>
He yanks his sleeve out of Tachibana's hand and glowers at you, fury eating him alive. You tap Tachibana in the chest with your floor and he gasps, rolling onto his belly, his lungs working properly again. “Listen to your bodyguard. Remember who walked out that room....what didn't. That goes for you too Tachibana. You might reconsider whom you're working for!” Yamada blanches, suddenly remembering the previous five minutes, and you slip off your jacket and whirl away with a flourish, headed back to the theater.

When you're in the elevator, you take a slow, deep breath....and then fall to your knees, drawing every last bit of strength you can from every reserve you possess. You manage to keep your power up, barely, but you hurt badly, and it's not very likely that you're going to be able to ignore the pain entirely this time, especially if you do stupid stuff like take on an actual master at kenpo, human or not. You breathe slow and deep as the elevator descends, and by the time it reaches ground floor, you feel a little better.

By the time the door opens, your on your feet looking like a million yen. Well, maybe a few thousand, anyways. With about ten minutes left (you thought it took longer, but Barrier Combat will do that to you), you waver between returning to your seat and taking a moment.

[] Stepping outside to visit the fountain might be good.
[] Some alcohol will help you recover a little.
[] Finding a secluded spot to pray might not be a bad idea.
[] Seeing if one of your clan is nearby so you can send them to fetch something more potent than the local drinks might be worthwhile.
[] Calling on some benevolent deity might be a very good idea.
>>
>>2055788
>Only three steps? You should be able to manage at least six at your level of skill!
Is that shittalking or honest?
>>
>>2055626
>>2055708
Doing all right, thank you.

>>2055758
>>2055762
Not an oversight.

>>2055779
Now I'm curious.
>>
>>2055794
>[] Seeing if one of your clan is nearby so you can send them to fetch something more potent than the local drinks might be worthwhile.
>>
>>2055794
>[] Finding a secluded spot to pray might not be a bad idea.
>>
>>2055798
Honest, actually, especially injured and tired as she is.
>>
>>2055794
>[x] Calling on some benevolent deity might be a very good idea.
I mean, if the colored text tells me to...
>>
>>2055794
Is the invoke a deity meant to be using our one-time invocation of Amaterasu? Because despite what you told us earlier about how the balance of good and bad stuff works, that still doesn't feel right.
>>
>>2055794
>[] Calling on some benevolent deity might be a very good idea.
>>
>>2055794
>[] Seeing if one of your clan is nearby so you can send them to fetch something more potent than the local drinks might be worthwhile.
>>
>>2055811
Ryukusa has already invoked Amaterasu, and her one time invocation of Inari would be stated as such.
>>
>>2055794
>[] Calling on some benevolent deity might be a very good idea.

>>2055809
Or a bad idea. But this is probably maybe the Kenku we were chided for not calling upon.

>>2055803
>Now I'm curious.
Just asking people in /tg/ about a new D&D sourcebook.
>>
>>2055794
>[] Calling on some benevolent deity might be a very good idea.
>>2055823
Oh right my bad. And I wasn't really sure if it was an unspoken assumption or not
>>
>>2055811
At the same time I don't feel like it's useful to look at these favors and prayers and allies as a bunch of one-use items we hoard in an RPG. Rather using them organically as the opportunity presents itself and trusting our ability to accumulate new favors and allies in the future seems more sensible, especially in our current situation. It's not life-or-death so it's not perhaps necessary, but then again Ryukusa's enemies have a nasty habit of showing up when we least expect it (and when we most expect it, they show up quite a lot really).
>>
>>2055830
Xanathar's right, did that finally come out?
>>
>>2055853
Yep, no scan yet but clips are floating about.
>>
>>2055834
That is true yeah, like the Tengu definitely are something we should have used earlier, and I'm glad we used the Wishing Jewel when we did. I guess we just need to keep an eye on the right time.
>>
>>2055794
>[] Seeing if one of your clan is nearby so you can send them to fetch something more potent than the local drinks might be worthwhile.
>[] Calling on some benevolent deity might be a very good idea.
>>
>>2055874
I guess the challenge is always in balancing it. We need to trust Ryukusa to manage things without help as well. I'd say situations like this one where she's pretty beat up is a fairly ideal time though.
>>
>>2055794

>[] Finding a secluded spot to pray might not be a bad idea.

>Contacting you loved ones and allies to tell them of your situation (and the situation in general) is very important, even if you keep it brief.

>[] Calling on some benevolent deity might be a very good idea.

Well, I just hope my idea of the previous thread didn't cost us the humongous personal power this could have given us.

If it did indeed cost us that, I'm really sorry, everyone.
>>
>>2055893
Well we'll probably never know if that was in fact the case, so you're safe from anon wrath anyway!
>>
>>2055893
Given our QM's description of the mechanics I'd say the benefits are merely delayed. Their nature may change, however.
>>
>>2055874

The Wishing Jewel was kept for a long time, maybe, but we used it precisely at the best possible moment. At least, nothing that we've seen since made me think "man, using the Wishing Jewel here would have been nice".
>>
>>2055893
There can be no expenditure of Good Stuff without commensurate reward/gifts/tools/allies.
>>
>>2055910
It's not called the Could Have Been Better Stuff after all.
>>
>>2055902
>Their nature may change, however.

That my point, yes.


Also, on unrelated news, I have to point out part of the reason we're so weak and beat up despite going to Tier 4 and not 5 is because we gave our energy to Naya (at least, I think it was said it would weaken us in case of Barrier Combat). It might be nothing, but I get the impression we should keep that in mind for what happen next.

Also, question: do you guys think we should send people to grab Mikurabe before her husband lose all sense of reason?
>>
>>2055924
I don't think grabbing her will help matters much, but there should be some communication attempted. No matter how much of a threat they are at this point I'd still like to not have them as hostile.
>>
>>2055924
I wouldnt be opposed but I think the yakuza might take us 'abducting' his wife somewhat badly
He shouldnt have a reason to do anything to her right?
>>
>>2055935
> No matter how much of a threat they are at this point I'd still like to not have them as hostile.

I think this is too late for Yamada
>>
>>2055924
>>2055935
Yeah, I think simply contacting her first might be smart.
>>
>>2055893
I think you probably misunderstood what the QM meant by
>>2055823
She's saying it ISN'T Inari
>>
>>2055949
Like I'm pretty sure XS is saying that invoking Inari will be clearly stated and that's not what's happening now
>>
>>2055794
>[] Calling on some benevolent deity might be a very good idea.
>>
>>2055944
We haven't earned any favors, but I feel good about our bargaining position.
>>
>>2055794
>[] Calling on some benevolent deity might be a very good idea.
>>
>>2055794
>[X] Calling on some benevolent deity might be a very good idea.
>>
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[X] Seeing if one of your clan is nearby so you can send them to fetch something more potent than the local drinks might be worthwhile.
[XX] Calling on some benevolent deity might be a very good idea.
[+] You really should inform some people of your situation.

Even demigods have their limits, and you've just about surpassed yours entirely. You could probably make it through the play, but making it through the play without alarming Kiku-chan and Er Yin-sensei? Not very likely. And of course, if you had to leave during the play, Kiki-hime would worry, to say nothing of Yui-niji-chan, while the enemies who are still here – and there are plenty – might decide to take advantage.

Recalling perfectly where you had everyone re-stationed and placed, you turn away from the main lobby and down the side corridor. You spot the nogitsune-born and his pretty Yakuza girl-ganger companion immediately, halfway down the hall, and some others down the hall. She's leaning against the wall, wearing a high school uniform with an unusually long skirt and the armband of the Student Morals Committee. She's not in high school anymore, but she's got the pretty, slender looks to pull off the outfit.

Her companion glances at you and grins, and you smile, but his nose twitches and his expression begins to change to alarm. You hold up your pointer fingers crossed, warning him to keep his mouth shut, and he forces himself to relax, and casually starts walking towards you. As he passes his companion she turns to you, and suddenly smiles; Fuchiko, one of Chisato's favorites, who had a crush on her when you first met them all. Apparently one of those girls who really did grow out of her fascination, mores the pity.

“Hey Fuchiko-chan. Whose your handsome friend?” The nogitsune-born grins, but you can see he's forcing it a little, even if Fuchiko pretends not to. She is fascinated by how you look and you lash your tail for her – slowly, but you manage it.

“This is Gan; your hair really is blue!” she exclaims, pushing herself off the wall.

“I kept telling Chisato that,” you point out mildly, while bowing slightly to Gan, who bows very deeply, even lowering his eyes. “Could you two have someone replace you for a moment? I need you to go to a store and buy the strongest alcohol you can find.” You pull a half dozen bills out of your wallet. “Better make it two bottles.”

Gan nods casually and takes the money you offer, which is immediately taken away from him by Fuchiko, who bites her tongue at him, as he shakes his head and sighs theatrically. “You got it boss. I'll take care of it.”

“He means I'll take care of it,” Fuchiko says as she starts off down the hall.
>>
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>>2056096
You smile at Gan. “Should have chosen someone more tractable maybe, Gan-san.”

He laughs and runs a hand though his gel-slicked hair. “Nah, she's great! She keeps me out of trouble!” You silently admonish him once more to keep his mouth shut, and Gan saunters off, hands in his pockets while Fuchiko waits for him near the exit, tapping her foot and hands on her hips.

That taken care of, you lean against the wall yourself for a moment, concentrating on your power. It's not untenable, but your body is taking it's own sweet time to heal, which is not a good thing. On the other hand, you should probably be dead, or should have died already, so you're doing....good? Not the word you'd use, really.

You close your eyes and drift for a moment, allowing your body to work on itself while you feel your blood, hold it carefully in place, keep damaged organs and muscle together with it. Merciful kami, please succor your servant in her time of need. Grant me a moment's respite and allow me to protect the smiles of my family a while longer, even at the end of my strength.

“Are you okay?” The tone of the voice is almost at odds with the question, and you open your eyes. “That's kind of a cool getup you have, miss! It's kind of, hot dyke in charge combined with bad girl gone wild, with a little total elegance thrown in! It's pretty neat!” You blink and look down at the barely-high-schooler with the rather amazing bust who is grinning up at you with bright eyes and a sunny smile that just makes you feel a little better because it's just that genuine a smile. “It's not some kind of cos-play is it? You look way to cool for that.”

[] Actually, no it's not, so thank you.
[] It might be just a little cos-play. My best friend loves it.
[] Well, yes and no. Kind of?
[] These kinds of things attract all sorts of people, you know, even us bad girls.
[] There isn't anything dyke about wearing pants-suits nowadays, you know!
>>
>>2056110
>[] Well, yes and no. Kind of?
>[] These kinds of things attract all sorts of people, you know, even us bad girls.
New people!
>>
>>2056110
>[x] It might be just a little cos-play. My best friend loves it.
>[x] These kinds of things attract all sorts of people, you know, even us bad girls.
I feel like the last option, while technically true, would be undermined by Ryukusa's everything.
Now, who's this kid?
>>
>>2056110
>[] It might be just a little cos-play. My best friend loves it.
>>
>>2056110
>[] Well, yes and no. Kind of?
>[] It might be just a little cos-play. My best friend loves it.
>>
>>2056110
It seems like the kami really get Ryukusa
>>
>>2056128
Right? Or perhaps its simply a matter of convenience.
>"Sir, we have another incoming call for divine aid. It seems to be urgent!"
>"Again? Us-dammit, let's see here...oh, it's just that kid again. I was worried this was going to be another one of those nagging...well, nevermind."
>"Sir, course of action?"
>"Just send the cutest kami on call and things will work out."
>"Bu-"
>"Don't worry about it."
>>
>>2056110

>There's nothing uncool about cos-play. My best friend is particularly loves it, and I do it sometime. But this is not really it, unless you take "costume play" very literally.

>[] There isn't anything dyke about wearing pants-suits nowadays, you know!


>So, what can the resident "hot dyke"-looking/"bad wild girl"-looking miss can do for you?
>>
>>2056110
>[] Well, yes and no. Kind of?
>[] It might be just a little cos-play. My best friend loves it.
>>
>>2056119

Not sure who she is, but she sure has nothing in common with the Tengu.

>>2056110

Adding to my vote here >>2056147

>If you're interested in an outfit of that style, I could design one for you.
>>
>>2056110
>"I can assure you it's quite authentic, though if you know a character with this look I'd be interested in more information."
>"You seem to have some knowledge of fashionability and styles miss. A hobby of yours?"
>>
>>2056110
>[x] Well, yes and no. Kind of?
>[x] These kinds of things attract all sorts of people, you know, even us bad girls.
>>
>>2056152
Whoever it is, she seems cute! And that's what's most important.

Well, I guess her ability to help us is technically more important, but I'm sure Ryukusa would agree with me that cuteness is always priority.
>>
Not that I mind the kami sending us women, but we have enough wives as is.
>>
>>2056167
It's tempting to argue the notion of ever having enough, but you're right. That doesn't mean us anons can't enjoy cute girls though! Even Ryukusa must be permitted to look.
>>
Wonder what she can do to help Ryukusa
>>
>>2056110
>[X] These kinds of things attract all sorts of people, you know, even us bad girls.
>>
>>2056188
I only worry about not having enough time for everyone else.
>>
>>2056237
Understandable. There's definitely never gonna be enough time with the wives.
>>
>>2056167

Arguable. We have a few girls we need to talk with before officially include in the count, and a few girls who might or might not get with Ryukusa (with at least one I really hope does)
>>
>>2056259
We have to be pure for our harem anon!
>>
>>2056265

Too late, Ryukusa did the butt stuff.
>>
>>2056259
>(with at least one I really hope does)
There are definitely some strong candidates for that position! I can understand the feeling.
I'm extremely torn between wanting Umetsume to somehow return for a wife position and wanting her to get over everything properly and dodge Ryukusa's danger-filled bullshit of a life entirely.
>>
>>2056270
Really like Umetsume so just want to see her happy.
>>
>>2056303
>>2056270
Who was she again? I'm overdue for a reread.
>>
>>2056318
Ryukusa's first "girlfriend". Killed her brother who has molesting her, she tried to kill us, we met her during the date at the tailor..
>>
[X] It might be just a little cos-play. My best friend loves it.
[X] Well, yes and no. Kind of?
[XX] These kinds of things attract all sorts of people, you know, even us bad girls.
[+] It's not really a costume, and it's an original design, but your interest interests me, and you're kind of cute and friendly, so how can I help?

You can't help but smile back at her interest and enthusiasm, of course, and she's an odd girl. Assuming, of course, that she is a girl, which at this point you aren't particularly sure of. She seems human enough, and genuinely friendly, so that's enough to go on as far as you're concerned.

“If it is cos-play, it's authentic cos-play, honestly. My best friend really loves cos-play; she's undoubtedly in heaven right now, with the show and all the cos-players here. So, kind of yes, and kind of no, I suppose.” Grinning you wink at her. “Even us bad girls like a good show, and Kumatori Kiki is pretty amazing. I was kind of surprised to find out what a following she has here. I kind of expected her to be more of a Chiyoda girl, all those aristocrats and such, you know?”

She bites her lip cutely, and bounces on her toes, which really gives her quite a bit of bounce for her age. Girls must hate her and boys must adore her, seriously. “Oh, she's great! I'm a big fan of hers, I got a signed pose-book of hers at home and a complete collection of her trading cards.”

“Trading cards?” you ask, genuinely bemused.

“Oh, she did a series of poses and art mock-ups for a bunch of card games! She's not actually in them, but it's pretty obvious who they're modeled after.” The darling girl leans forward and whispers surreptitiously, “I actually got some of her Midnight Collection, when she was modeling for Lazy Hazy Fashion! Very rare finds, you know!” The way her eyes sparkle and her cheeks flush you'd think she was modeling lingerie, which you're certain is not the case. She sands back up straight. “I kind of thought it was a Fate-Stay sort of look you were going for. Saber is one of my favorites, she's got that very cool, elegant style. Not quite kei style, though, all that blonde hair.”
>>
>>2056329
“Well, if you're interested I could probably make something nice for you; it wouldn't be too hard, I'm used to working with extra chest size,” you comment, accenting your curves with your hands, though not touching yourself of course; you're not that lewd in public. At least that you recall. “I think I could make you something really extraordinary.”

Her eyes light up but she shakes her head. “No, I'm way too girly-girly for that! I'd look like a potato dumpling or something!”

“What?!” You can't help it – you laugh, because the image is utterly and totally ridiculous, and yet she's not entirely wrong. “No, I – aha ha, I'm sorry, no, I could make you look nice! It probably wouldn't be slacks or anything, but you could look very nice. I'd probably use white, maybe pink trim. A wide belt and some very shiny, thick-heeled Mary-Jane style shoes. Gold both buttons and buckles. Your hair tucked back and short, with a bright pink quartz or maybe Swarovski crystal.”

Her eyes are wide and sparkling and she tilts her head. “That sounds really cool, miss! Are you sure you're a bad girl, 'cause you're really sweet and nice!”

[] ….I, uh, thanks?
[] Well, appearances are deceiving, but thank you.
[] I am getting better, honestly. You're pretty cute, and very kind.
[] Shouldn't make that kind of assumption, sweetheart.
[] You're a good girl; you take this to a certain shop in Harajuku-Shibuya junction area....
>>
>>2056324
I don't know if she deserves those quotation marks anon, sure it was a more innocent time and they were probably awkward about things but they were still going out I'd say!
>>
>>2056333
>[] Well, appearances are deceiving, but thank you.
>[] I am getting better, honestly. You're pretty cute, and very kind.
>>
>>2056333
>[] I am getting better, honestly. You're pretty cute, and very kind.
>[] You're a good girl; you take this to a certain shop in Harajuku-Shibuya junction area....

>>2056335
Yeah, I guess. I do have a bad habbit of overusing quotation marks. Was just trying to summarize it as short as possible.
>>
>>2056333
>"You'll come to find, that's what makes me the baddest girl of all."
>"Was that too cheesy do you think? I'll have to practice my lines."
Dumpling? This girl has some weird ideas about herself.
>>
>>2056333
>[] Well, appearances are deceiving, but thank you.
>[] I am getting better, honestly. You're pretty cute, and very kind.
>>
>>2056333
>[] Well, appearances are deceiving, but thank you.
>[] I am getting better, honestly. You're pretty cute, and very kind.
>>
>>2056329
Cutest happiness potion around!

Speaking of happy, maybe this girl's power is just the power of happiness?
>>
>>2056333
>[X] I am getting better, honestly. You're pretty cute, and very kind.
We all think she's a kami right? or at least sent by them?
>>
>>2056333
>[] I am getting better, honestly. You're pretty cute, and very kind.
>[] You're a good girl; you take this to a certain shop in Harajuku-Shibuya junction area....
>>2056365
It would be quite the coincidence if she isn't although I suppose unwitting servants of the kami can't be rules out either. Someone who just happens to be right for the job, nudged in the right direction to be here at this time

Or I guess a random girl
>>
>>2056333
>[x] Well, appearances are deceiving, but thank you.
>[x] I am getting better, honestly. You're pretty cute, and very kind.
>[x] You're a good girl; you take this to a certain shop in Harajuku-Shibuya junction area...
>>
Do we actually want to send this sweet, innocent girl to the shop? She might get corrupted.
>>
>>2056409
Sacrifices must be made if you want to look as spiffy as Ryukusa
>>
>>2056333


>Who says bad girls can't be sweet or nice? I've met several who were...

QM, if we send her to the shop, does it mean we don't do the outfit for her ourself?
>>
>>2056442
I'm afraid that is a hopeless endeavor, now 'almost as spiffy as Ryukusa' would be worth aspiring to!
>>
>>2056333
[] ….I, uh, thanks?
[] Shouldn't make that kind of assumption, sweetheart.
[] I am getting better, honestly. You're pretty cute, and very kind.
[] You're a good girl; you take this to a certain shop in Harajuku-Shibuya junction area....
>>
>>2056464
That is correct, but I will point out that Subaru was Ryukusa's teacher.
>>
>>2056508
But Ryukusa loves dress-up, it would surely be a shame to miss out any chance!

Although, I dunno how much time we have until the play restarts.
>>
>>2056508

Well, sure, but I think Ryukusa would enjoy doing it herself, too.

>>2056521

We might have to wait for the next interruption. But that's ok.
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>>2056496
Oh, she wouldn't send an innocent girl to Naya-chan - Ryukusa's not insane.
>>
>>2056333


Adding to my vote here >>2056464


>If she wants to, you can do her outfit right now -or next pause in the play. If she'd rather not, you know a shop she can visit... .


Sorry for the change of vote so late, I think my intent wasn't clear before.

>>2056541

Well, not THAT insane.
>>
>>2056508
Why not both, XS?
>>
>>2056569
You think she can handle both?
>>
Well, I'm not sure who is this girl, but that's certainly different from a Tengu boon. Don't think we're getting personal power or an item.

>>2056569

you want a pure girl to give her body to *two* tailors to dress?

How lewd.
>>
>>2056580
I know she can. Send her over with the outfit and she'll have a modeling career for sure.
>>
>>2056590

Ask Kiki to give her an audition and she'd manage to have one.
>>
[XXXX] I am getting better, honestly. You're pretty cute, and very kind.
[X] Well, appearances are deceiving, but thank you.
[X] You're a good girl; you take this to a certain shop in Harajuku-Shibuya junction area....
[+] Bad girls are special, and not always wicked or cruel, you know. I would know, of course!

“The very baddest of girls can be very sweet and nice, and that makes me the very baddest of all girls,” you say leaning down just a little, smiling wickedly. You're not at all surprised when she bursts into peals of girlish laughter, not laughing at you, but truly laughing at the delivery. “Too dramatic? I always over do that. I'll have to practice more.”

“You're really cool, onee-chan,” she declares brightly, her eyes glittering brightly. “I'll remember that though! Can't be too careful, after all!” She takes a step back. “I have to go, Onee-chan, I really hope you succeed at being the good cool girl you want to be! But bad girls turning good is also pretty cool, it happens sometimes! Even in the cartoons!”

“Well, I am getting better at it, imouto-chan; you're a good girl, very cute but also very kind. It's nice to see a girl who isn't spoiled or unhappy sometimes. There aren't enough.” You pull a notebook out of Nowhere and scribble some thing on it. Measurements, style notes, and suggestions, and one request. You also write down a note saying it's on you, special. “I want you to take this to a small shop on the street of the cat, hidden behind a lot of the other shops. Ariadne's weaves. Ask for this to be delivered to Subaru-sensei. The tall girl with the sword will make sure if you ask her, so if she's there, she's the one to ask.”

She takes the piece of paper with an awestruck expression. “But how will I be able to pay for it?” she asks in a ridiculously small voice, her eyes huge and trembling nervously.

“You won't. I said I would make you an outfit, and since I may not be able to, I am going to make sure you get one from the person who taught me.” With a smile you reach out and stroke her hair, and she sighs happily, relaxing almost instantly. It's softer even than Kiku-chan's fine hair. “Bad girls are allowed to be sweet and nice, you know, but that doesn't make them any less bad. But I think, in your case, I can be nice and cool. I'm not that way often enough, I think. My family would disagree.”
>>
>>2056746
“Oh yes. Family can be all sorts of trouble. My uncle was a drunkard and very violent. My aunt and he had such a row, it was a mess. But they made up eventually.” She elans close and puts her hand up to guard her whisper. “I think my aunt is kind of ecchi; she keeps peeking at me in the mirror when I'm bathing!”

She steps back quickly, beaming at you as if she's told a very funny joke. You're rather dumbfounded by her rather personal revelation, and you step away from the wall. “I have to run, the play's starting! I hear that the punch line's a real killer! Bye, nice cool bad girl lady!” The cute girl waves and quickly darts off down the hallway, and you watch. She moves like a dancer....a very clumsy dancer. The startled squeak when she gets her somewhat short skirt caught on one of the rope pylons is utterly adorable. Unfortunately the pylon's hook opens just enough o catch her skirt...giving you what should have been a nice glimpse of her panties, back and front, as she turns around and fights the pylon off.

If she'd been wearing any.

Being stunned by such a sight should be beyond you, but realistically....well that doesn't happen realistically! If this were some goofy harem cartoon maybe! Or some stupid slice of life with drama! But really???

“Hey boss. It's the strongest they had.” You turn and look at Gan, while Fuchiko bows, offering you a bottle of some very, very expensive Scotch. You take the bottle and literally slice the top off with your left hand, and upend it. Gan and Fuchiko both stare at you as you drain the entire contents of the bottle. You exhale a soft whoosh, and shake your head. “Holy crap boss, are you gonna be okay!?”

Fuchiko just stares as you hand her the empty bottle. “Just fine. Watch out for....huh.” You run your hands down your body. You're still horribly, horribly injured....but you feel pretty good. Not nearly one hundred percent, or even fifty percent. But you're definitely not running on empty anymore. “I feel fine. Oh, that glass edge is sharp, be careful.”

Apparently, a bottle of scotch and a schoolgirl lolita with a no-pan preference was just what you needed.

Who'd have thought?

>To Be Continued....
>>
sorry for the long delay. I have been informed I'm working an extra two hours for my shift tonight and had to take care of life things. However, we will continue with this thread tomorrow at 10 am. once again. Hopefully with less delay.
>>
>>2056761
Thanks for running XS. Was fun as always.
>>
>>2056761
Don't worry about it, thanks for writing! Comfy times with Ryukusa and no-pan girl was fun.
>>
The Kami agree, No-pan is best Pan
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>>2056785
If less is more, no-pan is everything.
>>
>>2056753
...huh, I didn't know Tsukuyomi had a daughter
>>
>>2056761
Thanks for running

>>2056785
Better not let Peter hear you say that
>>
>>2056785
All pan has its appeal, anon! Elaborate lingerie for example, or the classic panties under pantyhose under skirt combo.
>>
>>2056792
Close.

Wrong fight.

The clues are all in the last post.
>>
>>2056761

Thanks for running!

>>2056792
Not sure she's his daughter

I don't think Amaterasu would watch the Moon Kami's daughter bathing, given her and Tsukuyomi's....issues.
>>
>>2056801
Elaborate lingerie are just elaborate lacy chains, no-pan is freedom
>>
>>2056804
Clearly we must get the thread's resident Japan experts on this mystery ASAP.
>>
>>2056822
But the elaborate lingerie is so much fun, anon! It's like a package on Christmas. First you stare longingly at it imagining the contents, then you enjoy unwrapping it until you can play with what's underneath.
>>
>>2056804
How many quests have you completed XS? Not dropped but completed with endings?
>>
>>2056804
Ah of course, I was caught up by the familial relations as opposed to what she did. Given how delightful she was, she could be little else but Ame-no-Uzume
>>
Given her "clumsy" dancer-like moves, her niceness, her enjoyably-sizeable Dumplings, the fact she run around butt-naked and how she doesn't seem bothered by being watched in the bath, I think that this girl is the daughter of Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto, goddess of dawn, mirth and revelry, inventor of the strip-tease, and big beautiful woman by excellence.

She was the one who managed to make Amaterasu go out of her cave when Susanoo was so much of a jerk he made her go full hikkimori (which changed from their other altercations where Amaterasu could also be a big jerk), notably thanks to her invention of the striptease.

Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto is also linked to Inari.
>>
>>2056861
>>2056866
Excellent detective work that I was definitely not too lazy and ignorant to do myself, anons!
>>
>>2056753
Can we keep her?
>>
>>2056922
I don't think she's capable of being kept
>>
>>2056939
but shes certainly capable of something
>>
>>2056866
Some versions of the myth I encountered was that Ame-no-Uzume wasn't enough to get Amaterasu out of the cave outright, only get her attention. What got her to venture out was a shiny thing and her own reflection. Because apparently, in some aspects, Amaterasu-Omikami is not dissimilar from a goddamn parakeet.
>>
>>2057032
>What got her to venture out was a shiny thing and her own reflection.
Yata no Kagami, the Mirror.
>>
>>2056853
5 or seven. All shorts, but still enough. I have dropped three.

>>2056861
Correct.

>>2056866
Not daughter, only temporarily possessed by.

>>2056922
Sorry, no. She won't remember most of this, but she'll be safe and happy; and she feel good about herself and trust in her own goodness and beauty for the rest of her life.
>>
>>2058272
Getting possessed sounds like a pretty sweet deal. Well, in this ca at leastse. I presume domination by certain other kami is less positive.
>>
>>2058287
>Well, in this ca at leastse.
Christ I'm tired.
>Well, in this case at least.
>>
>>2058287
You would be correct.
>>
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Stage 174: Just because it hurts doesn't mean....

Making your way back to your seats is a little trickier than it was last time you did so. This is largely because bumping anyone or anything would be very unpleasant for everyone involved. Still, you do what you must for those you love, and it would break your wifes heart to look out at the audience and not see you there, you suspect. Oh, sure, it might be a bit of conceit on your part that she would notice or see past the stage lights, but you like the idea nonetheless.

Does that make you a reverse romantic? Wanting to be needed so badly your lack of presence might hurt them? Or just a cruel person? Definitely narcissistic, but you like to pretend your that anyways.

Okay, so you're maybe better, but not really all there yet.

You do notice the distinct lack of Yamada's and Shinkai's men alike; they seem to have decided the play wasn't worth watching, or at least moved locations, which is far more likely given the price of tickets and the quality of the show. Inau-kun, Kiku-chan and Er Yin-sensei are where you left them, though all three are on high alert. The only reason you know Er Yin is on alert is the sensation of her Void Eyes moving across you, which makes you wince.

So much for hiding your injuries from her. Kiku-chan looks over at you, and glares at you seriously, while Inau-niji-kun looks relieved more than anything else. You cautiously finish making your way to your seat and sit down carefully, though with as much grace and dignity as you can manage.

“Thank you, Inau-kun,” you murmur softly. “You did just right, perfectly timed, when I needed you most. You may consider yourself my rescuer, and I am quite sure Yuuhi-chan will be totally jealous of you for at least two minutes.”

Kiku-chan hisses angrily. “You're hurt!”

[] I am well aware, thank you, now get on my lap.
[] It's nothing to be concerned with, dishonestly.
[] Yes, but I'm staying here anyways, for obvious reasons.
[] I'm not entirely sure why this surprises you, my lovely priestess.
[] I've been worse at least once!
>>
>>2058573
>[] I am well aware, thank you, now get on my lap.
>>
>>2058573
>[] I've been worse at least once!
>[] Yes, but I'm staying here anyways, for obvious reasons.
>>
>>2058573
>[x] I'm not entirely sure why this surprises you, my lovely priestess.
>[x] It's nothing to be concerned with, dishonestly.
Just an average day for Ryukusa so far!
>>
>>2058573
>[] I am well aware, thank you, now get on my lap.
>>
>>2058573
>[] I am well aware, thank you, now get on my lap.
>[] I'm not entirely sure why this surprises you, my lovely priestess.
>>
>>2058573
>[x] I am well aware, thank you, now get on my lap.
>[x] I'm not entirely sure why this surprises you, my lovely priestess.
>>
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[x] I am well aware, thank you, now get on my lap.
[x] Yes, but I'm staying here anyways, for obvious reasons.
[x] I'm not entirely sure why this surprises you, my lovely priestess.

Catching the start of this just as i'm about to go to work. Alas, cruel fate. . .
>>
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[XX] I am well aware, thank you, now get on my lap.
[X] I'm not entirely sure why this surprises you, my lovely priestess.

Inau-kun's warm blush is gratifying, of course and she inclines her head and closes her eyes, accepting the high praise as you meant it, despite the seeming humor in your words.

Pulling Omukade-sama from behind you and placing her on the seat next to you – on your left – you lean back in the cushioned seat slowly and sigh, the pressure actually helping keep things intact and in place. “Considering the company we were keeping, the persistence of our enemies, and the fact that I'm me, I really don't know how this can possibly be a surprise to you, Kiku-chan,” you comment mildly as Inau-kun hands you a bottle of very cold water. You drink gratefully, the water soothing and refreshing, though not nearly as nice as the liquor you gave to Gan and Fuchiko as a gift for the services well rendered. “I am aware that I am injured, but thank you for the reminder anyways.”

She starts to say something quiet, intense and angry, but a set of silver talons descends on her delicate shoulder, and she glances at her master with wide, surprised eyes. “You are doing well, Ryukusa-sama?” asks Er Yin, and that kind of makes you squirm a little, because she is far more able to see your situation than Kiku-chan and her gentle request for reassurance is a lot harder to simply lie about. One should not lie to one's diviners.

“There are....complications, yes, but I will remain anyways. If my priestess would deign to grace my lap with her presence, I would feel a lot better, though.” Er Yin runs her hand down Kiku's back; the Fire dragonette's expression changes immediately. Kiku looks worried now, rather than angry.

Sliding out of her seat, the dragonette makes her way to you, and then stops when she reaches you. Her golden eyes gaze at you seriously and you smile a little before picking her up and carefully setting her upon your lap. She shifts a little but you control the pain as best you can, though even Inau-kun notices your movement and expression. Not good.

“Don't wiggle, please,” you ask her softly as you pull her back against your body, her head cushioned by your breasts. She stills and slips her tail around your waist, careful not to prevent you from being able to reach your wakizashi. “Thank you, kasan,” you murmur as you place your hands about her waist and cross them, casually and gently holding her as you relax your body, if not your power.

“You should be in a safe place, healing, idiot dragon.” she comments, more mildly than you expected as the lights start to dim.

[] I refuse because I must refuse.
[] I am healing, and you're helping, lovely dragon.
[] I would like to, but this is more important than you know.
[] I will do so when everyone is home and safe.
[] I must present an unbeatable and terrifying visage for our enemies.
>>
>>2058624
>[X] I am healing, and you're helping, lovely dragon.
>>
>>2058624
>[] I would like to, but this is more important than you know.
>But I'll tell you what I can as soon as the next intermission starts
and besides
>[] I am healing, and you're helping, lovely dragon.
>>
>>2058624
>[] I refuse because I must refuse.
>[] I am healing, and you're helping, lovely dragon.
>[] I would like to, but this is more important than you know
>>
>>2058624
>[] I will do so when everyone is home and safe.
>[] I am healing, and you're helping, lovely dragon.
>>
[] I am healing, and you're helping, lovely dragon.
[] I would like to, but this is more important than you know.
[] I must present an unbeatable and terrifying visage for our enemies.
>>
>>2058624
>[x] I refuse because I must refuse.
>[x] I am healing, and you're helping, lovely dragon.
>[x] I must present an unbeatable and terrifying visage for our enemies.
>>
>>2058624
>[x] I am healing, and you're helping, lovely dragon.
>[x] I will do so when everyone is home and safe.
>>
>>2058624
>[x] I am healing, and you're helping, lovely dragon.
>[x] I would like to, but this is more important than you know.
Well damn, I'm late on this one. Oh well!
>>
>>2058624

>"I AM in a safe place, beloved." *hug her with affection* "between you, Er Yin-sensei, Inau-kun, the delightful actors of the play, and our other allies, I'm safe. And I'm happy to be here with you all."

Honestly there is no place we could reach quickly that would be safer, or with more people who wish us good.
>>
>>2058689

Hoping it still gets in.

Sorry for the late vote.
>>
You know, I think we should re-contact this ESPer girl who had been captured by the Kaga Clan to be used in their "angel" scam.
>>
>>2058695
For what purpose, anon?
>>
>>2058703

We're going to have to handle the Kaga Clan sooner or later, and she was opposing them.
>>
>>2058712
Fair enough, we can always give it a shot.
>>
>>2058716
>>2058712

Plus I think she had some beef against the Chinese demons our clan dealt with
>>
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[X] I refuse because I must refuse.
[X] I must present an unbeatable and terrifying visage for our enemies
[X] I will do so when everyone is home and safe..
[XX] I would like to, but this is more important than you know.
[XXXXXXX] I am healing, and you're helping, lovely dragon.
[+] I AM safe, loved and protected.

“I can't do that. Not just because of my duty, either.” She lays her hands on yours and you gently feel the firming place along her belly where her egg lies beneath. If makes you feel giddy to know that you'll be a father soon, despite the cognitive dissonance involved in the biology. The role of fatherhood you can cope with easily, though you'd enjoy being a mother just as much, you suspect. “While I must present the image of being invincible-”

Now she really does look at you like you're crazy, while Inau-kun wisely hides her smile, having heard about your claims of invincibility from one or another of your clan, no doubt. You gently turn her head forward by the horn that pokes you in the breast, and are very glad hers aren't as sharp as some of the niji-chans are.

“-and believe me, our enemies here believe it for the moment, I can't leave for a much more important reason.” Er Yin mouths an 'ah' to herself, getting it immediately. In some ways her culture is even more intensely bound by rituals and promises than Japanese are. “When everyone is home and safe I'll happily submit to Yui-niji-chan and your tender mercies, but right now it is absolutely necessary I remain here, safe and protected and where my family and loved ones can watch over me.” You gently hug the dragonette in your lap, and run your tail along Inau-kun's leg lightly. Er Yin smiles, your words enough for her – at the moment, anyways.

“What could possibly be more important than being well enough to take care of Kiki-hime, aniki?” asks Inau-kun. She's relatively innocent in these matters compared to Kiku-chan and Er Yin, and at the moment Kiku-chan's worry is overriding her sense of propriety and duty. Though it's not entirely a typical situation either, which she can be forgiven for.

As the light dims further and the taiko drums start their thunderous booming you point up at the top of the 'temple' that the noh players sit within. Two pairs of eyes follow your finger and look at Fuuta-chan, dressed in her paper and silk scales, lazing on the beams of the temple and idly making cotton clouds swirl about the glowing moon globe above her.
>>
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>>2058767
Inau-kun looks understandably confused, but Kiku-chan gets it immediately, her already pale skin going nearly white as she realizes why you can't possibly leave. “I am afraid I don't understand, Ryukuza,” Inau-kun whispers softly. You can't explain because Akari is rising, her peasants clothing artfully decorous in their false simplicity. The beauty of having Akari play the role of Yui is delightful in a Water dragonette sense. Er Yin leans over and gently takes Inau-kun's hand, and it is only a few seconds before the blood drains from her face as well.

Pissing off the Dragon God of All Weather by leaving in a play you specifically told him you would create to punish his people after you showed up to it would be suicidally stupid, to say nothing of being a monumental insult.

The Least Demon in the House of Kuraokami is clearly shy, and delicate, boyishly cute and terribly fragile despite his age. He has failed his master, but in his master's place he has been given a new master, and new tasks. He basks, he rejoices in his new place within the tiny mortal household! His master does not mind this new household; they are honorable, they are true, and they are kind. His new master and his new friends are beautiful and kindly and generous beyond measure.

But what is this? His uncles have come seeking him! He throws himself upon their mercy, for he owes his new master his life! He cannot break the bond of life and death that he now owes. But they will not relent! They will destroy this upstart mortal, and reduce his family line to ruins and ashes!? It cannot be allowed! He begs, he offers his life, he promises to return – but it is too late! Master, oh master, forgive your weak and foolish slave! How can he repay the kindness sand peace he has been given with pain and blood – it is awful, it is tragic....

And yet....?
>>
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>>2058782
As Akari kneels, hands clasped, her head tilted up and her expressionless face creating a visage of anguish and hope alike, the entire theater is on edge, anticipation bubbling throughout the entire hall. Akari rises, and returns to her cushion, head bowed as she kneels once more.

The flurry of conversation and awestruck amazement combines with the anticipation she's created in her audience, and you sigh, stroking your priestess' hair.

“She certainly knows her stuff,” you murmur softly.

Inau-kun is staring, and Er Yin is smiling beatifically. Kiku-chan nods slowly, her eyes bright and her heart racing a little faster than normal, clearly moved by the play.

[] Explain what happened to your companions now that you have a moment.
[] See about getting some more alcohol into you; you really need more fortification.
[] Consult Kiku-chan about the etiquette of talking to one of the members of the play via the Void.
[] Meditate on your family for a while. Perhaps thinking of them will speed the process.
[] Pray to the Tengu as an apology and for guidance and instruction one what you should have done.
>>
>>2058789
>[] Pray to the Tengu as an apology and for guidance and instruction one what you should have done.
>>
>>2058789
>[x] Meditate on your family for a while. Perhaps thinking of them will speed the process.
Hmm, I'm not so sure about another one of our boons at this early point. No-pan schoolgirl was just earlier!
>>
>>2058792
that's true, but I don't think XS has ever done this blue text before. I think it's a combination of the thorough and unnecessary asskicking we got throwing the karmic scales out of balance, and us being in greater danger than we know?
>>
>>2058789
>[] Explain what happened to your companions now that you have a moment.
>>
>>2058789
>[] Meditate on your family for a while. Perhaps thinking of them will speed the process.
>>
>>2058798
Now that's a scary thought.
Although we seem relatively safe as long as we stay around and watch properly. I hope.
>>
>>2058789
>[] Explain what happened to your companions now that you have a moment.
>[] Pray to the Tengu as an apology and for guidance and instruction one what you should have done.
...Yeah I don't know, panicking is in some ways worse than hoarding but I'm just gonna trust that we'll be getting an equitable trade.
>>
>>2058789
>[x] Meditate on your family for a while. Perhaps thinking of them will speed the process.
>[x] Pray to the Tengu as an apology and for guidance and instruction one what you should have done.
In character I suppose Ryukusa got a little caught up in the moment.
>>
>>2058789

>[] Explain what happened to your companions now that you have a moment.

>[] Pray to the Tengu as an apology and for guidance and instruction one what you should have done.

>>2058792
>>2058798

The Blue Text means that our psychic powers are kicking into hyperdrive to indicate us something that is related to the Good Stuff we spent yet got nothing in return.
>>2058800
>>2058803

Let's not ignore the Tengu again, please.
>>
>>2058798
QM chided us for earning a massive favor and not cashing in on it when appropriate during the battle by calling on the kenku. The blue text indicates correcting this mistake because we have incredibly thick skulls.
>>
>>2058789
>[] See about getting some more alcohol into you; you really need more fortification.
>[] Pray to the Tengu as an apology and for guidance and instruction one what you should have done.
>>
>>2058798
>>2058808

Also we aren't in greater danger than we know. We just can't mess with the insult we're in the middle of delivering to Yui's tormentors.
>>
>>2058817
>>2058821
>>2058826
I guess a justification could be that Hiei was only the first line of Abominations 2.0 they're only gong to get stronger and more bullshit so it's not completely unreasonable to want to see how we can stack up against presumably the weakest one on our own instead of a stronger model.

On the other hand, it's important to keep in mind that we -aren't- on our own, that we have a lot of great and powerful friends and allies and in some ways the universe is on our side and there's nothing wrong with taking advantage of that as long as we don't get complacent or neglect our own efforts which Ryukusa will already never do? ...I guess?
>>
>>2058839
Just because there are no trap options doesn't mean Ryukusa can't make mistakes or incur consequences. The players did nothing wrong, only forgot an important aspect of this particular game's mechanics (and after 3 years of play, no one can really blame them!)
>>
100% honest though

If the requirement to meet the little no-pan Kami was us getting hurt and if us calling the Tengu woulda prevented that I regret nothing
>>
>>2058852
No yeah that makes sense, I'm just saying that I'm not really sure what we're meant to do against the likes of Hiei in the future (since Ryoga almost certainly made more) beyond hoping to have them outnumbered and that the concentrated amount of bad stuff that is having to fight an abomination karmically causes good stuff to arise preemptively like when we met those tengu earlier, and just keep an eye out for that?
>>
>>2058869
I'll also keep an eye out and try and make things clearer (which for this peculiar game is not easy) as much as I can without spoon feeding. It's a delicate dance.
>>
>>2058839

We DID ask for help in that fight. Inau-kun killed the Nue-child. And we would have had allies with us if the circumstances had let us.

>>2058869

We'll be stronger and we'll know those Abominations' tricks and habits, next time. And we won't be alone.
>>
>>2058901
>Inau-kun killed the Nue-chil
Oh right she did, I forgot which is weird since that was a really cool moment.
>>
>>2058789
>[X] Explain what happened to your companions now that you have a moment.
>>
>>2058789

adding to >>2058926
>[X] Pray to the Tengu as an apology and for guidance and instruction one what you should have done.
>>
>>2058894
I think in that case rather than only appearing as an option, if Ryukusa had a thought about the kenku in the dialogue it might have jogged my memory of the context.
>>
>>2058945

Honestly I thought it was only put in the vote because it was mentioned in chat and XS wanted to give the option to vote for it even if it wasn't related to this fight.
>>
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[X] Explain what happened to your companions now that you have a moment.
[X] Meditate on your family for a while. Perhaps thinking of them will speed the process.
[XX] Pray to the Tengu as an apology and for guidance and instruction on what you should have done.

You wrap your hands about Kiku-chan's waist once again and she carefully settles back into your lap, crossing her legs and settling a little. You suddenly tense, and while you make no sound, she's perfectly away she hurt you and freezes. The diminutive and thankfully light dragonette waits until you relax again before moving to adjust her position again. This time you assist her, preventing any further issues.

When you begin speaking, it is in a low, soft tone, almost melodic, and your Seer and your Hunter pay rapt attention, while Kiku-chan closes her eyes and seems to slip into a trance, her body heat becoming strong and suffused throughout her form, a better heater than any kotatsu ever was. The singsong chant is fluid and soft, and while you avoid the use of any actual names, the euphemisms and hints – bandits, bodyguards, priests, and hunters – are pretty obvious, they're not so obvious that casual listeners would get the references.

By the time you are done, telling how the warrior sought a place to get drunk after his terrible misadventure, you have a small audience of your own, even before the kyogen has started. There are a number of delighted listeners and one young fellow, leaning over the seat he is sitting behind, outright asks. “Hey, have you ever thought of writing that tale, maybe having it made into a noh play of your own?”

You chuckle softly and that hurts a little, but it's worth it. Still, Kiku-chan is a warm and soothing presence, and you feel good. “No, I';m nowhere near the writer Kumatori Kiku is, I'm afraid.” That gets some attention. You look up. “Didn't you know? She's the writer, as well as the actress and producer. This play is her creation, not just her venue.”

That gets a flurry of startled and awestruck conversation and you lay your head back, taking deep, slow breaths. “Moron. She doesn't need even more publicity.” Kiku-chan doesn't even open her eyes or flick her tail-tip at you.

“I agree with Ryukusa-sama,” says Er Yin, startling the other two warriors. She continues in Ainu. “We can no longer trust entirely in anonymity. So more publicity is possibly a better defense than strictly hiding her. If something untoward happens, let it be in public view. That will force Taisho Ryoga's hand and reveal more of his resources to us.

Inau-kun nods. “The tactic is sound. Appealing prey as well as the inability to simply send scouts and assassins. The Righteous Helpful society might not have such qualms, but it will allow us to root out the rotten places within their meat.
>>
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>>2059017
That is an absolutely disgusting visual, and I do not appreciate it,” your priestess murmurs, and you smile, gently running your talons along her bared belly. “Undoubtedly the idea is sound.

My family is argumentative and precious,” you observe, earing a blush from Inau-kun and a smile from Er yin you feel more than see. “I think I will sit here and bask in the heat of my beautiful little sun as long as she allows..” Inau-kun and Er Yin-sensei rise, leaving you to your meditations and Kiku-chan to her protection and what healing she can give you.

It's not entirely true of course. Your family is not all that fractious or argumentative. Usually, when they are, it concerns something critical or a misunderstanding, or someone's ignorance being taught away. Kiku-chan,for all her temper and irascible attitude, is a teacher and a mystic, and surprisingly good at healing and taking care of the troubled minds of those around her. Er Yin, her subtle ways and strange visions, can be shockingly forthright and incredibly bold in her actions. Kiki-hime, full of surprises and adoration, yet dangerously capable of turning your household into a singular force if she thinks you need them to be that. Yui and Akari, two sides of a strange coin, the soft spoken oni and the terribly violent Stone dragonette, both complex and surprisingly simple in their natures. Yuuhi, childlike and earnest, while utterly terrifying and insightful. Shoko, a woman who need a man, and Inau-kun, a man who needs a woman; a husband and a wife made for each other.

Even your quickly growing clan is becoming tightly bound and stronger. Kaga Kei, and enemy turned student, learning the truth that was hidden from her. Fuuta-chan, a friend and once the heart of enemy plans, now your staunch ally. Hebiki Rishi, eagerly joining your clan to escape hers and learn from the very best. Chisato, of course, Peta-chan and Reiha, Detective-san, and more. Even people who aren't suppose to like you, sacrificing their ties to their own clans to become entangled in your life. Umetsume, Rie, Slowly you're beginning to become a power, and you might yet manage to win this.

You mouth the words, more than say them, but you concentrate on the Five Brothers Tengu, who offered their services to you.

[] The penitent dragonette shall pass....uh, no wait. You're sorry, really.
[] My ignorance and lack of skills has proven to be nearly an undoing; grant me guidance.
[] My enemies craft more terrible and frightening monsters – how does one fight abominations?
[] I seek the skills of those greater than I am, that they may be put to the use that Amaterasu Omikami requires of me.
[] Guys, I fucked up a little. Can you give me a hand?
>>
>>2059020
>[x] Guys, I fucked up a little. Can you give me a hand?
>[x] My enemies craft more terrible and frightening monsters – how does one fight abominations?
>>
>>2059020
>[x] I seek the skills of those greater than I am, that they may be put to the use that Amaterasu Omikami requires of me.
>[x] Guys, I fucked up a little. Can you give me a hand?
I like the contrast. Proper eloquent respect followed with humility.
>>
>>2059020
I think there was a certain way we spoke to the Tengu earlier, but I don't remember what thread it was we did that.
>>
>>2059020
>[] My enemies craft more terrible and frightening monsters – how does one fight abominations?
>>
>>2059020
>[X] My enemies craft more terrible and frightening monsters – how does one fight abominations?
>>
>>2059020
>[] I seek the skills of those greater than I am, that they may be put to the use that Amaterasu Omikami requires of me.
>>
>>2059020
>[] The penitent dragonette shall pass....uh, no wait. You're sorry, really.
>[] My ignorance and lack of skills has proven to be nearly an undoing; grant me guidance.
>[] My enemies craft more terrible and frightening monsters – how does one fight abominations?
>>
>>2059020
>My ignorance and lack of skills has proven to be nearly an undoing; grant me guidance.
>I seek the skills of those greater than I am, that they may be put to the use that Amaterasu Omikami requires of me
>>
>>2059020
>[x] The penitent dragonette shall pass....uh, no wait. You're sorry, really.
>[x] I seek the skills of those greater than I am, that they may be put to the use that Amaterasu Omikami requires of me.
>>
>>2059020
>[] The penitent dragonette shall pass....uh, no wait. You're sorry, really.

>[] I seek the skills of those greater than I am, that they may be put to the use that Amaterasu Omikami requires of me.

> Be respectful and as proper as required. This is a prayer, still.

>>2059026
>>2059040
>>2059049


The "seeking the skills" one is better. We're not going to only face Abomination, after all.


For exemple, the Nue-child on his own could have hurt us a lot, too, if not for Inau-kun.

And then there is things like the Mill Pond Demon or the Nuke Specters,
>>
>>2059034
>[] I seek the skills of those greater than I am, that they may be put to the use that Amaterasu Omikami requires of me.
I think there might be a limitation here I'm not seeing but then again, I can't see it.
>>
>>2059020
>[x] I seek the skills of those greater than I am, that they may be put to the use that Amaterasu Omikami requires of me.
>[x] Guys, I fucked up a little. Can you give me a hand?
>>
[x] My ignorance and lack of skills has proven to be nearly an undoing; grant me guidance.
[X] Guys, I fucked up a little. Can you give me a hand?
[X] The penitent dragonette shall pass....uh, no wait. You're sorry, really.
[XX] My enemies craft more terrible and frightening monsters – how does one fight abominations?
[XXX] I seek the skills of those greater than I am, that they may be put to the use that Amaterasu Omikami requires of me.

[+] Mostly, I seek guidance, help, skills, and teaching so I can do my duty as best as possible. I'm sorry, but I've failed to live up to my masters teachings finally, against foes I fail to understand well enough, that will only become worse as my enemies reach greater skills.

Taking slow, deep breaths, you lay your horns against your priestess' horns, and she leans back into you. You're too relaxed physically for the movements to pain you, and if they did, well, it is only the price you pay for underestimating your enemies capabilities.

Something you cannot allow to happen again.

(Guide my words, Priestess of Horobi, personal priestess to Ryuu Ryukusa.)

(As best I can, aniki.)

You mouth the words of the prayer, careful and neither too humble, or too proud. Honest, forthright, and honorable, if not necessarily truthful. Beseeching the Brothers Five of the Sword for their guidance and instruction. How does one slay abominations when they can slay even immortals? How does one kill demons who are not of the mortal world and exist within the realms of the gods? You might be a swordswoman, but even your skills have limits. There is only so far that instinct can take you, only so far Cleverness and Deadliness can reach. There must be something more to be achieved, some aspect of the blade that you have failed to grasp properly.

Will you guide this dragonette, who comes to you bearing the marks of her failure, so that she will not fail her family, her clan, or the Benevolent Sun who has given her the duty she must not fail in?

At once you feel the contented peace of your true nature, that of a deadly and Clever creature, fall upon you. You see Buki-sama, Omukade-sama, Ohabari-sama, the parts of them, the pieces that make up the weapon that they are. You are instructed, taught carefully and well. But you are not just being made aware in the manner of instinct or mystical talent. You are being instructed in a more basic, simple way of fighting, something beyond your awareness and more of a focus.

this is the ken, the blade

this is the tsuba, the quillons

this is the tuska, the hilt

this is the kashinagame, the pommel

you are the sword
>>
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You open your eyes, watching as Hiei charges you. He moves like smoke, like water, like a cloud, and you slowly lift Buki-sama, Omukade-sama, Ohabari-sama with your right hand, placing your left hand at the base of the hilt, the simplest, most basic attack, the first one taught to any student of the sword. Hiei charges, and you slowly, calmly lift, tearing through the barrier and wards alike without even deigning to notice or allowing the sword to shift position one angstrom.

this is your heart

this is your mind

this is your will

this is you movement

these are your weapons

As the barrier collapses around you with infinite slowness, as the monster comes for you, you stop the sword behind you, and lift your left foot, slowly placing it before you as you slice – not swing, not cut, but slowly slicing through the air between you and Hiei. Hiei reaches for your face, to tear your jaw off and rip open your throat while breaking your neck.

demons, abominations, untamed youkai are all the same

they wish only to cause pain and suffering

the only good demon is a dead demon

it is a sad but unavoidable truth

remember your lessons well

You step forward and the point of your weapon and the tip of your katana travels in a high arc, slowly curving in and towards you as well as down, the most delicate of arcs added to the arc of the weapon. A slice, never a cut or a chop or a stroke. It passes through Hiei without resistance.

You step to the side and flick the blood from your weapon, three times, once for each weapon, once for each stroke you made with each weapon you held.

Hiei stumbles, and looks confused, the red glow of his eyes fading. You lower your head, looking at him as he turns towards you. Hiei slowly reaches for you, then collapses, ichor and black smoke exploding from the bisected corpse.

Your eyes shoot open and you sudden;y understand with perfect clarity how to kill demons and abominations. It isn't just fighting them, the techniques of battle, the Barrier Combat. It's the decision to kill them that makes all the difference in the world, the thought not of how, why, when, or in what manner....just....

Deciding that they are going to die.

Yuuhi is looking at you, unmoving and still, and you look at her. Your hands tighten around your priestess' waist as you and she share something, something more intimate than sex, more intimate than history or love of friendship. It is a knowledge, an understanding, one that you both acknowledge: to decide upon an immortal being's death is to have already killed that immortal. Demons, abominations, gods, all of them. They live in your thoughts and dreams, and when they no longer do....

....you can kill them.

>To Be Continued....
>>
Thank you for reading and playing. Things will become more clear to Ryukusa as time goes on.
>>
>>2059253
Thanks for running! That was quite the Good Stuff indeed.
>>
>>2059253
Thanks for running!
>>
>>2059253
Thanks for running XS
>>
>>2059250
Yeah that would have been nice to do when it was appropriate. Ah well.
>>
>>2059250
I'm not sure I get it 100% but I know it was super meaningful. That's really cool.
>the only good demon is a dead demon
That doesn't necessarily mean half-demons does it? Like Ryoga sucks, but that's not 100% because of what he is.
>>
>>2059320
You would be correct, though the Tengu wouldn't consider being half-human much of a difference.
>>
To the anon who wondered about finished quests:

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=a+matter+of+taste

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=deadpan

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=dramatic+princesses

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=The+End+of+the+Aftermath

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=tale+of+x

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=tager+quest

I really do plan on continuing Tager Quest. Incidents at an Orphanage should be over in a couple of weeks at most, so we'll see.
>>
>>2059323
So... Don't introduce them to Naya, in other words?
>>
>>2059370
That would definitely end badly, especially as Naya is friendly.
>>
Thanks for running! So, Ryukusa's issue with the Abomination is that she was thinking "I'm fighting you" rather than "you are dead."


We're not going to follow the"kill all demons" part, though, probably. Ryukusa gives a chance to beings, and aside from being a Demon Tamer, Ryukusa also had reasonable discussions with demons and got them to change their mind a few time
>>
>>2059551
We didn't try to charm them this time.

>>2059385
Ryukusa would understand why that's a bad thing, and the Kami only go where they're needed, so it's best that we don't invite them where they aren't needed.

>>2059250
Thanks for running, XS. That was a rather terrifying and amazing thing to realize, thank you.

I had also just realized today that Yuuhi might be in this state because she mistook western destruction from a Susanoo type rather than a Ryukusa type. We'll see what Ryukusa has realized changes Yuuhi.
>>
>>2059245
>>2059250
We path of the gunslinger now.
>>
>>2059666

What do you mean, "in this state"? Yuuhi is an Enlightened Buddha, who was tortured by the malevolent spirits who appeared when the Americans nuked Japan. That's pretty much it for her "state"
>>
>>2060411
The state that she's in. The damage to her psyche.
>>
>>2059335
I will be honest Tager Quest was what made me find you as a QM and hearing you want to continue it makes me almost giddy with excitement. You really catch some kind of vibe when it comes to Lovecraftian stuff that I just adore reading.
>>
>>2060799

Then I don't get what "mistook western destruction from a Susanoo type", sorry.
>>
>>2061082
Probably because I spend a lot of time thinking insane things and having terrifying nightmares when I manage to sleep.
>>
>>2061152
My gf is similar so I can understand you. Her dreams are quite gruesome when she dreams. Either way I am trying to emulate the portrayel you manage in both Tager and the End of the Aftermath when I gm Call of Cthulu rpgs. Its a hard thing to nail down.
>>
>>2061179

Well, it doesn't help Call of Cthulhu isn't really keeping the tone of Lovecraft's works, most of the time.
>>
>>2061640
Which is why I try to get such a tone in my games. I know a few players of mine would have an absolute field day if I managed but right now it simply devolves into more lovecomedian then craftian sadly.
>>
>>2061666
Part of the trick is to play off 80-90% as easygoing and slightly rediculous....but when it's time to get serious, make a distince lack of gore, a lack of terrifying elements. A little more the next time. A little bit more, and soemthign unreal or surreal....then an entire scene of "what fresh hell". Modulatign your voice, keepign it lower when you describe the gruesome and surreal scenes, while keepign it normal and casual for almost everything else helps too. It makes your player's brains go into overdrive without them knowing it when you change your attitude and voice for no apparent reason before describing the dark scenes.




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