>>35563398
>[] Remind Zen-ue about his meeting.
>[] Make sure appropriate quarters are set for the appropriate guests.

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You're in your office in the main hall of Ryutaku-ji checking over his appointment lists for the next few days. Not exactly the most stellar work in the Temple of the Swamp Dragon, but as close as you can get. Despite the name, it's not even remotely a Buddhist temple, nor is it any relation to the one on the mainland of Japan, since it's in the Hokkaido Sea. It amused Zen-ue to call it such, given that it was his current abode.

The Water dragonne was absolutely infuriating sometimes.

Today there are three arrivals that you need to meet with personally, and one meeting you need to prepare Zen-ue for with one of those guests, and then it will be business as usual, except for arranging a guard for the Princess. She is usually pretty tolerant about such things, but lately she's been touchier than usual. You haven't been able to get either of the Stewards to calm her down either, but those two know more about the Princess than you do.

So....

[] Try and speak with the Princess.
[] Speak with Oji-san about setting up a guard detail.
[] Remind Zen-ue about his meeting.
[] Make sure appropriate quarters are set for the appropriate guests.
[]

>>35563424
Noted.

>>35563426
Aww yee!
>[x] Remind Zen-ue about his meeting.
>[x] Try and speak with the Princess.

>>35563426
[] Speak with Oji-san about setting up a guard detail.
[] Make sure appropriate quarters are set for the appropriate guests.

>>35563426
Damn, I'm late.
>[] Remind Zen-ue about his meeting.
>[] Speak with Oji-san about setting up a guard detail.
>[] Try and speak with the Princess.

>>35563426
[]
[] Try and speak with the Princess.
[] Speak with Oji-san about setting up a guard detail.
[] Remind Zen-ue about his meeting.
[] Make sure appropriate quarters are set for the appropriate guests.

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[XX] Try and speak with the Princess.
[X] Speak with Oji-san about setting up a guard detail.
[XXX] Remind Zen-ue about his meeting.
[] Make sure appropriate quarters are set for the appropriate guests.
[] ?

The most critical thing – and it is pretty fucking critical because Zen-ue is a slacker despite how fucking brilliant he is – is making sure your master knows you're going to be making sure he's properly dressed and outfitted for his meeting tonight. Insulting a major Kamuy would be trouble even if he is the servant of the Sun, the Moon, and the Hearth. The Princess is the next order of business, mostly because she NEEDS that guard detail, and if you can't convince her, then you'll convince Oji-san that she needs one anyways.

Because realistically, if the staff don't have quarters in proper shape you'll beat the crap out of them personally, dragons and youkai though they may be.

You sweep out of your offices and through the grand halls of crystal and stone, the water features in each hall consisting mostly of cascades of water along the walls falling from-and-into-troughs along each hallway. The main hall has fountains and the like, mostly to honor the moon, as the ones meant to honor the sun are in your master's private chambers.

Which never made any sense to you, but fuck it, he's a dragon-child, he doesn't have to make sense.

It isn't the master or a servant who knows where the master is that you run into first – it's his Steward of the Left, the Stone dragon-child blessed by Nikne Kamuy. “Hey, numb-skull! Have you seen the master anywhere?” She smiles at you faintly, that easygoing, relaxed expression almost sickening in it's calm.

>>35563426
>[] Speak with Oji-san about setting up a guard detail.
>[] Remind Zen-ue about his meeting.
>[] Make sure appropriate quarters are set for the appropriate guests.

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>>35563747
Akane-sama shakes her head. “I haven't seen him up yet. He's not in the bed-chambers either though. You'll have better luck with Kuanshi.” The Chinese woman who serves your master as a seer.

“....well, where the fuck is she?”

“The reflecting pools, Shoko-sensei.”

“Thanks, bitch.” You stalk off, already feeling the frustration mounting, though Akane-sensei merely smiles and continues on her way.

[] Find Kuanshi, that'll be easy.
[] Continue hunting for Zen-ue.
[] Go by the bedchamber first, it's closer.
[] Go by the Princess' Chambers since it's relatively on the way.
[]

>>35563376

hey, sorry to interrupt but do you have a source on that pic, OP? artist's name or blog or something?

>>35563767
>[x] Find Kuanshi, that'll be easy.
Fuckin'...

>>35563800
http://www.pixiv.net/member.php?id=3771635

>>35563767
>[] Go by the Princess' Chambers since it's relatively on the way.

>>35563767
>[] Find Kuanshi, that'll be easy.
>[] Go by the Princess' Chambers since it's relatively on the way.

>>35563767
[] Go by the bedchamber first, it's closer.
[] Go by the Princess' Chambers since it's relatively on the way.
[] Find Kuanshi, that'll be easy.

>>35563767
>[x] Go by the bedchamber first, it's closer.

>>35563767
>[x] Find Kuanshi, that'll be easy.
>[x] Go by the bedchamber first, it's closer.

>>35563827
>japanese language site
>artist's screen name is literally a fucking period "."

WHY

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[XX] Find Kuanshi, that'll be easy.
[X] Go by the bedchamber first, it's closer.
[XX] Go by the Princess' Chambers since it's relatively on the way.

Well, since Kuanshi is an easy find – assuming she doesn't leave the Pools of Deepest Reflection – you head towards the Princess's personal chambers. It's more or less in the same direction, so if the Chinese dragonette decides to head towards the castle proper you have a chance of catching her.

Sometimes you wish the haremites had their own personal servants that didn't actually hang around them so much. Then you could at least coordinate with someone so you could find any one of them easily! When you enter the curved halls leading to the Princess' chambers, though you slow down; the Steward of the Right is kneeling before the Princess' door, staring into nowhere as though meditating or considering. The Void oni-child is probably communing with her personal kami, like as not....

Despite your irritation, you politely and quietly wait until she notices you, which she does immediately. “Can I help you, Shoko-sensei?” She looks up, her eyes bright and her smile genuine, and totally lacking in the proper invective and epithets.

Sometimes, she freaks you the fuck out.

[] Sorry, bitch, but I gotta talk to her Hineyness.
[] What are you doing here, you mongrel Void-spit?
[] You seen the master, dragonne-bait?
[] ….hey, is it true what they say about you and the other steward, babe?
[]

>>35564144
>[x] You seen the master, dragonne-bait?
>[x] Sorry, bitch, but I gotta talk to her Hineyness.

>>35564144
>[] You seen the master, dragonne-bait?

>>35564144
>[x] You seen the master, dragonne-bait?

>>35564144
>[] ….hey, is it true what they say about you and the other steward, babe?
>[] Sorry, bitch, but I gotta talk to her Hineyness.

>>35564144
>[] You seen the master, dragonne-bait?
>[] ….hey, is it true what they say about you and the other steward, babe?
I wanna knoooow!

>>35564144
>[] You seen the master, dragonne-bait?

>>35564144
[x] What are you doing here, you mongrel Void-spit?
[x] Sorry, bitch, but I gotta talk to her Hineyness.

>>35564144
>[x] You seen the master, dragonne-bait?
>[x] ….hey, is it true what they say about you and the other steward, babe?
Shoko doesn't seem very nice.

>>35564479
From what XS says, this is actually normal for oni-born. Yui is a freak.

>>35564501
It does keep getting mentioned we need to teach Yui how to swear and insult properly.

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[X] Sorry, bitch, but I gotta talk to her Hineyness.
[XX] You seen the master, dragonne-bait?
[X] ….hey, is it true what they say about you and the other steward, babe?

“You've seen the Master today, dragonne-bait? I mean, aside from in bed and naked.” Yukari-sama smiles, sharp teeth and sweetness. Kamidamn but she's so....so....so NICE!

“No, Shoko-sensei. He was up before anyone woke.” Her glowing eyes gaze into yours, that soul reading stare unnerving. “Are you that worried?”

You sigh softly. “He's a slob, and I don't mean that in the usual epithet, but an actual human slob.” She snickers softly and you walk over, crouching with her. “We got two kamuy and a bunch of human sorcerers from Hokkaido coming in today, and he should at least LOOK like a fucking god!” That makes her actually laugh and she shakes her head, knowing exactly what the fuck you're talking about. “Hey, can I ask a question?”

She inclines her head, curious as ever. “Is it true that you and the Steward of the Left are....” You press you fingers together in a double scissors gesture.

Yukari-sama snickers again. “There are just some things you need someone as tough as you are for, Shoko-sensei....” You can't help but grin. They're the two toughest bitches in the entire temple, that's for kamidamn sure.

“Well, I gotta see her Royal Butt-Pain, so you gotta get the fuck out of the way, Yukari-sama.” Her expression goes serious and you take a step back as she rises to her full eight feet, towering over you by a head. “The Princess isn't taking visitors, Shoko-sensei, even you.”

[] Ah, Yukari-sama....you know I'll be the soul of gentility for ~her~!
[] Fine, fucking sonovabitch, I'll go bug Kuanshi then!
[] ….well, I happen to have tickets to a Noh play for next week, Yukari-sama....two of them....
[] Well, fuck, off to find the Master again.
[]

>>35564144
[] What are you doing here, you mongrel Void-spit?
[] Sorry, bitch, but I gotta talk to her Hineyness.
[] You seen the master, dragonne-bait?
[] ….hey, is it true what they say about you and the other steward, babe?

>>35564540
>[x] Ah, Yukari-sama....you know I'll be the soul of gentility for ~her~!
>[x] ….well, I happen to have tickets to a Noh play for next week, Yukari-sama....two of them....
Anything to get through!

>>35564540
>[]
Testing.

>>35564540
>[x] Ah, Yukari-sama....you know I'll be the soul of gentility for ~her~!
>[x] ….well, I happen to have tickets to a Noh play for next week, Yukari-sama....two of them....

>>35564579
[X]

Getting her drunk right now would take hours.

>>35564540
>[] Fine, fucking sonovabitch, I'll go bug Kuanshi then!


It's not like bribe would work

>>35564540
>[] ….well, I happen to have tickets to a Noh play for next week, Yukari-sama....two of them....

>>35564615
The world conspires against us.

>>35564540
>[x] Fine, fucking sonovabitch, I'll go bug Kuanshi then!

>>35564540
>[x] ….well, I happen to have tickets to a Noh play for next week, Yukari-sama....two of them....

>>35564540
>[]
>[] ….well, I happen to have tickets to a Noh play for next week, Yukari-sama....two of them....
>[] Ah, Yukari-sama....you know I'll be the soul of gentility for ~her~!

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[X] Ah, Yukari-sama....you know I'll be the soul of gentility for her!
[X] ….well, I happen to have tickets to a Noh play for next week, Yukari-sama....two of them....

Well, though you were saving them for your Oji-san, you pull out two tickets to a private box in a Hokkaido theater. “Well, I do have these two tickest to a fucking bona fide, actual Noh play in the Kobayashi....box seats....priate box, near the front....” Her eyes lock onto those tickets and you know you have the hook set. “And you know me....in front of the Princess I will be the perfect servant, and as polite as you are....”

Her eyes flick up to mine, and, and they narrow. “Promise?”

You offer your pinkie to her, and she locks hers with it. Yukari-sama is no one you'd dare break a promise to, but it's easy to be polite to the Princess, even when she's being a fucking bitch. Which really hasn't happened all that often, usually when she's feeling neglected by the funking haremites.

“When she kicks you out there,” she states as she moves to open the door for you, “I'll definitely be escorting you out.” Yeah, you didn't think there would be an if there. You slip the tickets to her and she puts them in her ~Sleeve~. Tapping on the door lightly, Yukari-sama speaks in actual Japanese to the young dragonette inside. A very irate response make her color slightly, a darker brick red than her natural color. Still, she speaks on your behalf again, and a sullen answer is her response.

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>>35564877


“All right, Shoko-sensei. Please don't keep her long” Freaky polite.

You slip inside and are presented by a pair of pretty dragons in human form kneeling on cushions at either side of the princess, who, while dressed, looks distinctly pale for a Japanese. She could almost pass for Ainu. You bow deeply and she gestures for you to sit on the cushion before her. Despite her paleness, she looks positively beautiful, and fragile. Kimiko-hime, wife to Amako Zen, bride of Destruction.

[] Princess, I've come to request you submit to an honor guard, at least.
[] Please, please, PLEASE will you reconsider your stance on a guard detail?
[] Your highness, there are two great kamuy and human sorcerers, I insist you have guards.
[] Bitches, leave, this is private between the Highness and myself!
[]

>>35564897
>[] Please, please, PLEASE will you reconsider your stance on a guard detail?

>>35564897
[]
[] Princess, I've come to request you submit to an honor guard, at least.
[] Your highness, there are two great kamuy and human sorcerers, I insist you have guards.

>>35564897
>[] Princess, I've come to request you submit to an honor guard, at least.
>[] Your highness, there are two great kamuy and human sorcerers, I insist you have guards.

>>35564897
>[] Please, please, PLEASE will you reconsider your stance on a guard detail?
>[] Your highness, there are two great kamuy and human sorcerers, I insist you have guards.

>>35564897
>[x] Princess, I've come to request you submit to an honor guard, at least.

>>35564897
>[x] Princess, I've come to request you submit to an honor guard, at least.
>[x] Your highness, there are two great kamuy and human sorcerers, I insist you have guards.

>>35564897
[x] Please, please, PLEASE will you reconsider your stance on a guard detail?
[x] Your highness, there are two great kamuy and human sorcerers, I insist you have guards.

>>35564944
[X]

You could probably extort a promise to not be without one of the Haremites at all times by pointing out her husband's reaction if she were harmed.

>>35565133
Then let's go with that if others fail.

>>35564897
>Princess, you know Zen-dono prefers to know you are safe

>>35564944
>>35565133
If all else fails:
>[] At least have Yukari-sama with you, Princess, who knows what your husband might do if you are harmed?

Say, XS, is the empty option Mystery Box, or a typo?
And if they weren't speaking Japanese, what were they speaking? Ainu?

>>35565347
I think the empty option is using her power to get a hint as to what would be best in the current situation.

>>35565347
Read the first post.

>>35565511
>>35565526
Welp, I'm blind.

>>35565347
They are speaking Ainu.

The empty box is a hint, yes - it's her Water oni-child cunning. If she uses the power it's filled constantly, but that exerts a lot of energy.

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[X] Please, please, PLEASE will you reconsider your stance on a guard detail?
[X] Highness, there are two great kamuy and human sorcerers, I insist you have guards.
[X]

You kneel before her, one hand on the ground, the other at your chest – palm to the side, instead of fist to your chest, a supplicant, rather than a warrior, though you're not incapable. “Kimiko-hidenka. Please grant your humble servant her request – that you kindly allow her to protect you by stationing a guard detail for you. I only ask this of you again as the most humble of requests.” Fuck that's a lot harder than you wish it were. But then again, you're not sure you'd want to offend her delicate Japanese sensibilities. Her sister might hear about it and burn down your wing of the palace. You're even using her formal suffix as royal consort.

“Absolutely not, Shoko-chan! I really won't.” Her cheeks are flushed and strangely she's blushing. You frown and look up at her.

“There are two Great Kamuy, Kimiko-hidenka. Kinashut Kamuy, the snake god, and Pauchi Kamuy, the bringer of madness. Then there are a cadre of human sorcerers from Hokkaido, who are to perform tonight. Please, your highness, please reconsider your stance, for the sake of your servants if not your own!” You lower your head again, though you look up with your all too human eyes at her soft blue ones that remind you of the sky.

She looks like she might reconsider, then goes even more pale, causing you to bring your head up. “No, no absolutely not. Please-” you interrupt before she can finish telling you to leave. The height of rudeness, perhaps, but you're an oni-child, you're allowed it.

[] Zen-dono would rather have you safe, even if it seems embarrassing, Kimiko-hime.
[] Very well, Kimiko-hime, as you wish.
[] I apologize, but I must insist, once more!
[] Then, promise me you will have one of your people with you at all times....because if you were harmed, I fear Zen-dono's wrath.

>>35565652
>[x] Zen-dono would rather have you safe, even if it seems embarrassing, Kimiko-hime.

>>35565652
>[] Then, promise me you will have one of your people with you at all times....because if you were harmed, I fear Zen-dono's wrath.

>>35565652
>[] Zen-dono would rather have you safe, even if it seems embarrassing, Kimiko-hime.

>>35565652
>[] Zen-dono would rather have you safe, even if it seems embarrassing, Kimiko-hime.

>>35565652
>[] Zen-dono would rather have you safe, even if it seems embarrassing, Kimiko-hime.
>[] Then, promise me you will have one of your people with you at all times....because if you were harmed, I fear Zen-dono's wrath.

>>35565652
>[] Zen-dono would rather have you safe, even if it seems embarrassing, Kimiko-hime.

>>35565652
>[] Zen-dono would rather have you safe, even if it seems embarrassing, Kimiko-hime.

>>35565652
>[] Zen-dono would rather have you safe, even if it seems embarrassing, Kimiko-hime.

>>35565652
>[] Then, promise me you will have one of your people with you at all times....because if you were harmed, I fear Zen-dono's wrath.

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[XX] Zen-dono would rather have you safe, even if it seems embarrassing, Kimiko-hime.
[X] Then, promise me you will have one of your people with you at all times....because if you were harmed, I fear Zen-dono's wrath.

You look her in the eyes and speak softly, but firmly. “No matter how embarrassing the situation, my Princess, Zen-dono would rather have you save than be at the mercy of the Kamuy or the humans for an instant. You are of Wood, and can survive much, but madness and the powers of a kamuy are not things that will threaten your health.” She places a hand over her belly, but you keep your eyes on hers.

….two handmaidens and looking so pale? She can't be ill....no, wait, she CAN be ill, but only from one thing. Kamidamnit, this was the LAST thing you needed!

“If you will not accept the guards, then promise you will have one of the Stewards, or the Seer, or the Priestess at your side at all times, my Princess!” There's no way you'll let her be even the slightest bit unguarded now! She starts to speak and you take off one of your gloves, which stops her in her tracks. Both of the pretty dragons immediately look away, politely. Your ugly, hag-taloned hand cracks and stretches, the muscles spasming weirdly. “If you do not, I will make the final protest I am allowed as our master's servant!”

While seppuku is not part of your culture, it's a very important part of hers, and by her blanch she thinks you mean it.

“All right, Shoko-chan, I promise you! I'll keep one of them near me always!” You sigh in relief and pull your glove back on, forcing your fingers into the correct positions with some effort.

[] I am your humble servant, my lady.
[] Your gracious acceptance is too kind, my lady.
[] Thanks babe....gotta find the hubby now.
[] Areegahtoe, Kimiko-hime.

>>35565952
>[x] Your gracious acceptance is too kind, my lady.

>>35565952
Oho, so she's pregnant, then.
>[x] Your gracious acceptance is too kind, my lady.

>>35565952
>[x] Thanks babe....gotta find the hubby now.

>>35565952
>[] Your gracious acceptance is too kind, my lady.
>[] Thanks babe....gotta find the hubby now.

>>35565952
>[] Thanks babe....gotta find the hubby now.

>>35565952
>[] Your gracious acceptance is too kind, my lady.
Stay polite, for fuck's sake.

>>35566020
>>35566024
>>35566060
What the hell? We gave a pinky swear to stay polite, and you're going to just break it?

>>35565952

>[X] I am your humble servant, my lady.
>[X] Your gracious acceptance is too kind, my lady.

>>35565952
>[] Your gracious acceptance is too kind, my lady.

>>35565952
>[] I am your humble servant, my lady.

>>35566222
Being sarcastic isn't polite either.

And yes, saying "gracious acceptance" when you literaly threatened to kill yourself is either sarcasm or severe delusion

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[X] Your gracious acceptance is too kind, my lady.
[X] Thanks babe....gotta find the hubby now.

You give her a more formal salute, as you stand up. “Your gracious acceptance of your servants fondest desire is too kind for her humble stature to believe, your Highness.” you smile and wink at her. “Gotta go find your husband now, babe. That dork is somewhere around here.” That makes her giggle, rather than angry, and you relax further.

She might be all high and mighty, but really, she just wants to be taken care of properly. And the Master knows you'll bully her into what you have to when it comes down to the wire.

You slip outside and shut the door behind you, rubbing your left temple as you close your eyes. “Man, she's one ridiculously insecure little bitch, Yukari-sama....”

“Mnh hmn. Gets it from her older sister probably.”

You laugh and open your eyes, to see the dashing figure of Kimiko's sister Keiko looking at you with a wry smile. “Bitch, how did you manage to get a Japanese half-sister?” The preistess of Ame-no-Horobi-no-Mikado looks at you with glittering golden eyes.

“Oh, you can blame dad. He likes those darkies.” She leans against the wall. “I'm guessing you figured it out?”

You sigh softly. “Kamidamnit, yeah....it couldn't be worse timing. Oh, by the way, she's promised me to keep one of you people with her, or I'll kill myself.” You grin wickedly.

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>>35566372
Yukari-sama blinks and looks confused. “How does that work?”

Keiko-sama smiles. “I'll explain it some time, Yukari-chan. Oh, you were looking for Kuanshi. She's still at the pools. Come on, we can go see her if you like.”

“I was looking for the Master, actually....” She shakes her head, but you were expecting it. “Not in the bedroom is he?” you ask hopefully. Again that head-shake. “Finnnne....”

You hit Yukari-sama as hard as you can on the shoulder and she kind of glances at you before lightly patting your arm. Such a fucking FREAK. Then you and Keiko-sama head towards the Pools of Reflection.

[] What do you think of these Kamuy, Keiko-sama?
[] What do you think of these sorcerers, Keiko-sama?
[] What the fuck is up with your sister's attitudes, woman?
[] So, about you and the Seer....

>>35566398
>[x] What do you think of these Kamuy, Keiko-sama?

>>35566398
>[] What do you think of these Kamuy, Keiko-sama?

>>35566398
>[] What do you think of these Kamuy, Keiko-sama?
>[] So, about you and the Seer....

Nonstop eyebrow raising.

>>35566398

>[X] What the fuck is up with your sister's attitudes, woman?
>[X] So, about you and the Seer....

>>35566398
>[] So, about you and the Seer....
>[] What do you think of these Kamuy, Keiko-sama?

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[X] What do you think of these Kamuy, Keiko-sama?
[X] So, about you and the Seer....

The slightly built Fire dragonette keeps pace with you easily, despite your distance eating stride that is so important in the immense temple. She almost prances along with you, her golden eyes searching every inch of space before her. The Priestess, unlike the Stewards, is the epitome of Fire dragonette – excitable, hyperactive, combative, easy to talk to, and thoroughly outgoing. Can't hold a single drop of liquor, but no ones fucking perfect.

“What do you think of these kamuy visiting, Keiko-sama?” you ask casually, but she merely glances at you.

“You mean, why are the Snake Goddess and the Madness Goddess visiting our Master at this time?” You feel your cheeks darkening and you look at her squarely.

“Of course that's what I fucking mean, you fucking hyperactive twit!”

She smirks, and turns around, walking backwards with as much facility as she does walking forwards, so she can look at you. “I think that the Moon has asked them to come and deliver a plague upon the humans. Yin poison, madness, and destruction? Moon trouble, it has to be.” That makes you relax quite a bit. That does make a certain amount of sense. The Kamuy of that sort of lunacy would have to seek permission if they planed on something that might affect a lot of people after all. “It's really the only reason they would bother visiting here. Mass hysteria would make sense for Pauchi Kamuy too, but at the same time as the Snake Goddess? It has to be something impressive.”

Reasonable and quick thinking, is the Priestess, and that is why you fucking talk to her about this shit. “Say....I head from a butterfly that you and the Seer....” You make the double scissor motion and she laughs, bright, joyful noise that would life the spirits of the fucking dead.

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“My lady is sweet on me, it is true! She wants to petition the Master for permission to marry....”

“Marry? That's....how the fuck does that even work?”

She smiles and turns around, hands behind her back. “Apparently, in the South of China, it's permissible under the right circumstances. Barbarians that they are, but apparently, sophisticated ones!” you and she walk up the glass steps with the living ocean under them, corals and brightly colored fish darting away from your footsteps. The two of you come up to the crystal doors to the reflecting pools, and your friend opens the doors, the vast caverns of the Pools gleaming in the soft blue light.

Kuanshi is there, looking down into the deep pools of black water, murmuring in her native tongue, the power of the Void whispering in your head.

[] Coming back later now!
[] Quietly follow Keiko-sama in.
[] Fearlessly walk in, but do not disturb.
[] Water Eyes.

>>35566850
>[x] Quietly follow Keiko-sama in.

>>35566850
>[] Quietly follow Keiko-sama in.
>[] Fearlessly walk in, but do not disturb.

>>35566850
>[] Quietly follow Keiko-sama in.
Fucking void

>>35566850
>[] Quietly follow Keiko-sama in.
>[] Fearlessly walk in, but do not disturb.

>>35566850
>[x] Quietly follow Keiko-sama in.
Respect!

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[X] Quietly follow Keiko-sama in.
[X] Fearlessly walk in, but do not disturb.

You follow the Fire dragonette into the void-heavy room, careful not to let any of your robes or your wakizashi strike any of the crystallized water – not ice, but literally solidified water. Zen-ue was playing with some of his power and crafted this place specifically for his Seer to use as she wished. That brat Keiko-sama, of course, waltzes in without a care in the world, her very nature ensuring that she would never touch or strike anything she didn't intend to.

Kuanshi's sightless golden eyes shine in the darkness as she gazes at the black pool. It is hot in here, mercilessly for the unprepared, but heat and cold mean little enough to you. She slows and then stops her chant, her hands outstretched over the pools of smoky water. Zen-ue told you once that he summoned the water from the deepest, most lightless depths, where strange life thrived and the water was so hot that it couldn't even be considered boiling.

Turning, the strange Chinese dragonette's leaden hair flows, rather than moves, and she looks at you with eyes seeing nothing more than spirits and ghosts. “He's in the uppermost tower, Shoko-sensei.” She bows, politely, and Keiko moves up to her, taking one hand and clasping it softly. Fucking husband and wife for sure. Keiko will make a great hubby though!

“....uh, thank you, Kuanshi-sama?”

She smiles and inclines her head in your direction.

[] Cast my fortune, hot stuff?
[] Cool, finally cornered the bastard!
[] Gotta run! Hey, congrats on the marriage!
[] ….oh, while I'm thinking of it....
[]

>>35567225
>[] Cool, finally cornered the bastard!
>[] Gotta run! Hey, congrats on the marriage!

>>35567225
>[] Cool, finally cornered the bastard!
>[] Gotta run! Hey, congrats on the marriage!

>>35567225
>[] ….oh, while I'm thinking of it....
>[] Cast my fortune, hot stuff?

And then,
>[] Gotta run! Hey, congrats on the marriage!

>>35567225
>[] Cast my fortune, hot stuff?
Eh, why not? We've still got a good while to take care of things.

>[] Gotta run! Hey, congrats on the marriage!
And can't forget a proper congrats to them!

>>35567225
>[] Gotta run! Hey, congrats on the marriage!

>>35567225
>[] Gotta run! Hey, congrats on the marriage!
>I'm sure Keiko will make a great husband!

>>35567225
>[] Cool, finally cornered the bastard!
>[] Cast my fortune, hot stuff?

>>35567225
>[] Cast my fortune, hot stuff?
>[]

>>35567225
>[] Cast my fortune, hot stuff?

It'll be better to know sooner rather than later if there's something ill lurking around.

>>35567434
[X]

Your fortune being told will only bring you sorrow.

>>35567225
[] Cool, finally cornered the bastard!
[] Gotta run! Hey, congrats on the marriage!
[] ….oh, while I'm thinking of it....

>>35567595
Then let's not get our fortune told.

File: Not suitable for Vegeta.gif (2.04 MB, 400x444)

2.04 MB GIF

>>35567595
...Well sanctus nunquam

>>35567225
>[] ….oh, while I'm thinking of it....

>>35567595
Sometimes you need to hear the hard hitting stuff.

File: Amako Zen.jpg (39 KB, 331x400)

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[X] Gotta run! Hey, congrats on the marriage!
[+] I'm sure Keiko will make a great husband!

“Congratulation on your marriage – I'm sure the old lizard will say you can!” You grin and wink at Keiko, who laughs, that beautiful, sweet laughter tumbling among the shining crystals and the pools of smoky water, as Kuanshi wraps her arms about the – HER – slender priestess. "I'm sure Keiko-sama is the best fucking man for the job!" That brings more laughter and smiles, and maybe even a faint blush...?

You carefully make your way out....and when you get out the door you bolt, heading for the stairs leading to the upper reaches of the temple.

The upper temple is silent, and unlit except by the flicker of luminous fish and the faint gleam of the temple below this small dome. Here, only the Water spirit-children can truly feel at home, for it is cold, dark, and the immensity of the ocean presses about the shrine. A small, plain altar with branches of coral with shaved sides are bundled before it, nusa from the ocean. Amako Zen sits in the center of the room, the light from below catching on his glasses, and the ratty old robes he's wearing.

Fucking hell, this is the God-of-fucking-Destruction, and he looks like an over-tall, underfed peasant.

He looks completely human to you, save for his left arm, the bone-like coral dull and lifeless looking, and containing enough power to destroy cities all by itself. He beckons you with it slowly. “Come in, Shoko. Here to reprimand me again?”

Somehow, his casual treatment doesn't feel insulting, or cruel, or rude. It feels....generous. Kind, as though you're his friend. It's enough to make you blush.

[] Um....about the meeting today....
[] Master, you're a fucking mess!
[] Quietly kneel before him, he seems...moody today.
[] I got the princess to have a bodyguard detail! Fucking amazing, right!
[]

>>35567917
[] Quietly kneel before him, he seems...moody today.
[]

>>35567991
>[] Master, you're a fucking mess!
>[] I got the princess to have a bodyguard detail! Fucking amazing, right!
>[]

>>35568002
Noted.

>>35567991
>[] Master, you're a fucking mess!
>[] Quietly kneel before him, he seems...moody today.
>[] I got the princess to have a bodyguard detail! Fucking amazing, right!

[X]

Trust in Ame-no-Horobi-no-Mikado. He is less the scatterbrained scholar than he seems.

>>35567991
>[x] Quietly kneel before him, he seems...moody today.
>[x] I got the princess to have a bodyguard detail! Fucking amazing, right!

>>35567991
>[x] I got the princess to have a bodyguard detail! Fucking amazing, right!
>[x]

>>35567991
>[] Master, you're a fucking mess!
>[] I got the princess to have a bodyguard detail! Fucking amazing, right!

>>35567991
>[] I got the princess to have a bodyguard detail! Fucking amazing, right!
>[] Um....about the meeting today....

>>35567991
>[x] Quietly kneel before him, he seems...moody today.

>>35567991
[] I got the princess to have a bodyguard detail! Fucking amazing, right!
[] Um....about the meeting today....

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[X] Master, you're a fucking mess!
[XX] Quietly kneel before him, he seems...moody today.
[XXX] I got the princess to have a bodyguard detail! Fucking amazing, right!
[X]

Rather than crouching in the manner of a soldier, today you silently step into the room, and sit seiza before him. He smiles at you absently, his dark eyes gazing well beyond you.

“I managed to make Kimiko-hime to accept a bodyguard detail....kind of. I know, I know, it's fucking amazing. She'll keep one of your harem with her at all times., I got her promise.” He smiles at you, still absently, but now he's actually looking at you at least. “Also, you're a fucking mess, Master. I mean really, those are fucking peasant's robes.”

He reaches out and runs his human fingers along your horn and you fall silent, the soft caress soothing, gentle and somehow....affectionate. “My lord?” You gaze at him curiously, cautiously.

“I promoted your grandfather. He now heads my warriors.” You stare at the God of Destruction in shock. “I also promoted Fujitsu to head of household, and Yuuhi to the status of Shinobi.” your guts twist in a knot, worrying about what he's going to do with you now that he has a new majordomo. Though, Fujitsu is a very capable and powerful youkai-born, and she'll do a good job, she's been a fucking wonderful assistant.

You hesitate....open your mouth....and then relax. He knows how much this works means to you, though you wouldn't admit it aloud in centuries. Zen-ue runs his fingers along your horns slowly, then lowers his hands to his lap. “I want you to take the place of Genso as keeper of the grounds. You are promoted to castellan, and I expect you to treat this home as though it is your own, always.”

[] Thank you master!
[] Are you fucking NUTS, Zen?
[] Uh....okay....what the heck....
[X] Trust in the Master, he's not crazy. You hope.

>>35568632
>[] Uh....okay....what the heck....
>[] Thank you master!

>>35568632
>[X] Thank you master!
>[X] Trust in the Master, he's not crazy. You hope.

>>35568632
>[] Trust in the Master, he's not crazy. You hope.
>[] Thank you master!

>>35568632
[X] Thank you master!
[X] Trust in the Master, he's not crazy. You hope.

>>35568632
[X] Thank you master!
[X] Trust in the Master, he's not crazy. You hope.
[x] What's Genso going to do?

>>35568632
>[x] Uh....okay....what the heck....
>[x] Thank you master!

>>35568632
>[X] Trust in the Master, he's not crazy. You hope.
>[] Thank you master!
>[] What about Genso?

>>35568632
>[X] Uh....okay....what the heck....
Are we like one of your horned girls now?
>[X] Trust in the Master, he's not crazy. You hope.

>>35568632
>[X] Trust in the Master, he's not crazy. You hope.
>Water Eye

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[X] Thank you master!
[] Are you fucking NUTS, Zan?
[x] Uh....okay....what the heck....
[X] Trust in the Master, he's not crazy. You hope.

He smiles at you calmly. “I want you to arrange everything as though you are still majordomo and head of household. Treat everyone the same, and do not let anyone know what promotions have been made.” This is getting weirder and weirder. Convoluted even.

….unless....

He suspects them.

Zen lifts that massively taloned hand and looks you in the eyes, his diamond-shining grey eyes boring into yours. “You have done incredibly well by my family. I appreciate it immensely and will hope that you find that one day, you will gain all I wish for you to receive.” Amako Zen reaches out and takes your thick-gloved hand in both of his and presses gently. “Shoko, you are very dear to my family. They treat you as their Grandmother, their obaa-san. And I think that suits you fine.”

You blush, and incline your head. “Many thanks, Master.” You feel that something is happening that you're not quite grasping. “So....what is the old bastard Oji-san to do?”

Releasing your hand he flexes the ceramic claw slowly, three fingers curling into his palm. “I've explained his new duties to him, and he will perform them perfectly, I am sure, just as you will.” He rises slowly, but easily, in no wise the old man he seems to be with his flowing white hair. “I will prepare for the meeting, and you will do as you always have – perform your duties well.” He gestures faintly, urging you to leave before him.

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>>35569163
~~~Later

To your shock, everything goes incredibly well.

The Kamuy and their entourage of servants – only a few each – arrive and are flattered and made welcome.

The sorcerers arrive in splendor and panoply, and are greeted with the same, and shown to their rooms.

The meetings go well – incredibly well, as a matter of fact, things being resolved and prepared for all in what seems record time.

The feast is glorious, perfectly catered, and no one insults one another unduly, oni-born and oni-excepted of course.

It's freaking weird.

And when everyone else is settled, and the mater and his pretty girls are all settled, and the even guards are prepared for their night....

[] Go ahead and sleep.
[] Stay up and prepare your duties for tomorrow.
[] Find your Oji-san and ask him what's up.
[] Go find a handsome boy or pretty girl to help you relax.

>>35569204
>[] Stay up and prepare your duties for tomorrow.

>>35569204
>[x] Stay up and prepare your duties for tomorrow.
>[x] Find your Oji-san and ask him what's up.

>>35569204
>[] Stay up and prepare your duties for tomorrow.
We've got a job to do, after all.

>>35569204
>[] Stay up and prepare your duties for tomorrow.
>[] Go find a handsome boy or pretty girl to help you relax.
If we can combine them. I'm thinking back massage as we do papereork.

>>35569204
>[] Find your Oji-san and ask him what's up.

>>35569204
>[] Go find a handsome boy or pretty girl to help you relax.
They're just laying around?

>>35569435
Well, it IS the temple of Ryukuza's previous incarnation

>>35569204
>[] Stay up and prepare your duties for tomorrow.
>[] Find your Oji-san and ask him what's up.
Damnit Master, something is very off here.

>>35569204
>[] Stay up and prepare your duties for tomorrow.
>[] Find your Oji-san and ask him what's up.
>[] Go find a handsome boy or pretty girl to help you relax.

Got talk to the old geezer, then find a cute assistant to help us (and "help" us) as we prepare for tomorrow

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[X] Stay up and prepare your duties for tomorrow.
[X] Find your Oji-san and ask him what's up.
[X] Go find a handsome boy or pretty girl to help you relax.

Being able to see in the dark, regardless of how human your eyes look, means that working late in your office is easily accomplished and very little trouble. Part of it is preparing the basic paperwork and duties for your new replacement. Yuuhi is a very pretty little youkai-child, not a kitsune as much as merely a black fox. She's surprisingly good as a swords-woman, and she is both clever and dedicated to the Master, and she takes very little shit from anything.

You don't envy her at all – now, after all, you are in charge of every aspect of the Swamp Dragon's Temple, inside and out. Castellan, or more simply, the custodian of the temple. More duties....but at the same time, a much greater honor than you expected.

In fact....maybe you should see if you can find Yuuhi and show her the ropes....so to speak. Or maybe not so much so to speak. You stretch slowly, the things that Zen-ue said percolating through your brain. Maybe find Yuuhi, or Negi, that hot little wan-youkai, and get a massage....maybe both....after you talk with Oji-san.

Fuck, you're never going to relax until you talk with him.

You slide the door to your office open and take the sorcerer with the weird hand roller thingy by surprise as he was in the middle of setting it up on the floor in front of your office – almost in the middle of the temple.

[] Kill him.
[] Disable and capture.
[] Hit him and call for help.
[] Bind his water and freeze him in place.

>>35569892
[] Bind his water and freeze him in place.
[] Disable and capture.

>>35569892
>[] Bind his water and freeze him in place.

>>35569892
>[x] Bind his water and freeze him in place.
>[x] Disable and capture.

>>35569892
[x] Bind his water and call for help

>>35569892
>[x] Bind his water and freeze him in place.
Welp

File: Pauchi-chan.jpg (132 KB, 499x700)

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[X] Bind his water and freeze him in place.
[+] Raise the alarm!

You make a quick and potent gesture, grabbing at him and seizing the water of his body, binding him in place as he starts to lift the tool, whatever it may be, up to point at you. He gasps and grinds his teeth, trying to move or break your power.

Being much older and much better trained than him it takes you no time at all to bind him utterly. He struggles for a few seconds more....and then chokes, blood pouring out of his mouth and tainted black by the poisons in his mouth.

You scream the only word that could possibly point out this situation.

“ASSASSINS!”

And with the wind to carry your words everywhere, it gets the message out quickly.

You first, most dreadful thought is of the newly pregnant Princess. And it is that which drives you pelting down halls, moving with the inhuman swiftness of the torrent or the hurricane. The scent of blood fills the master's hall and you realize there is one thing you are not hearing from down that hall....

The sound of Destruction, or Fire, or Wind, or Water, or the powerful blows of Stone or lightning conjured from the Void.

The master's hallway is silent.

Yuuhi-chan arrives almost seconds after you do, her nodachi drawn and covered in poisoned blood. You can see the same, desperate, haunted, pained look in her eyes as is in yours. And when a shadow steps from the room, all four eyes turn to that shadow, hate and fear boiling out of them.

Pauchi Kamuy, green flames circling her, her robes spattered with blood...holding a sword stained red with the blood of your Master and his loved ones. His family.

Your clan.

[] Blood Frenzy
[] Barrier
[] Drown her.
[] Angry Face.
[]

>>35570225
>[] Drown her.
>[] Angry Face.
>[]

>>35570225
>[]
I don't want to go into a Frenzy and kill our friend.

>>35570225
>[] Drown her.
>[] Angry Face.
>[]

>>35570225
>genuflect

>>35570225
>[]
we need to be careful here

File: Yuuhi.jpg (1.32 MB, 2400x2300)

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[X]

Only vengeance remains now, but you can kill even a Kamuy in Blood Frenzy....it is the only way you have to kill a god.

>>35570225
>Scream to Yuuhi-chan to flee, force her to if necessary
>[] Blood Frenzy when she's out of the way

>>35570225
[] Blood Frenzy
[] Angry Face.
[] Drown her.

>>35570225
>>35570325
Well then
>>35570366
>>Scream to Yuuhi-chan to flee, force her to if necessary
>>[] Blood Frenzy when she's out of the way

>>35570225
gotta agree with >>35570397
get Yuuhi-chan away and blood frenzy

>>35570366
Changing to this from >>35570298

Keep the angry face, though.

File: Never Again.jpg (395 KB, 1500x1500)

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[X] Blood Frenzy
[X] Angry Face.
[+] Terrify Yuuhi into flight, if you have to!
[X]

There is no question of what you must do. You tear off your gloves, your bones twisting and cracking as you relieve yourself of their binding nature, their control of your hands. You scream at Yuuhi, your voice a torn shred of song, horrible in it's beauty.

“rrrrRRRRRUUUNNN!!!!”

She takes one look at your face turning black and twisting into a hideous mockery of humanity, and flees for her very life. Pauchi Kamuy turns and slowly walks towards you as your heart pounds, your brain turns into molten fire, your fangs and tusks tear open your lips as they jut from your jaw....your vision turns into crimson and you shriek, a banshee as you stare at the delicate goddess....and just before your world turns into a nightmare, you see the horrified understanding on her face.

The look of someone who has just realized they they themselves created the monster about to destroy them.

~CRRRUNCH~

>To Be Continued with Ryuu Ryukusa....

>>35570564
Thanks for running, XS.

>>35570564
Shokos head wasa fun place to be in, thanks for running.

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Thank you for staying and playing. I hope it was an interesting, if not entirely enjoyable ride.

Sorry about the connection interference.

In case you were wondering, yes, Shoko killed Pauchi Kamuy, who is the one who granted Water Oni their Blood Frenzy. In doing so she lost an eye.

>>35570639
Thanks for running, XS.

What ramifications does killing a kamuy have?

>>35570689
You'll need to ask your spiritualist. Or Shoko.

>>35570689
Depends on the situation, Anon.

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” ans is fully grown. Yuuhi a cute.

>>35570564
Thanks for running! Was a lot of fun.

>>35570770
does Shoko know that Genso is her dad?
and is Yuuhi still alive?

>>35570921
No.

Maybe. Shoko does know she definitely did not kill Yuuhi.

>>35570564
Thanks for running!

>>35570770
Is Yuuhi still around?

I'd ask if she's still around Shoko, but seeing someone transform in a terrifying god-killer tend to drive people off. Or arouse them, depending of their tastes.

>>35570564
>>35570639
>The look of someone who has just realized they they themselves created the monster about to destroy them.
>Spoiler

I love the irony.

Never create something you can't destroy. Never give a power you can't take back.

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Time for bed. Thank you for playing.

>>35570984
well she was the god of Madness. Maybe she was crazy. Crazy people do Crazy things, like make crazy god killing powers for foul mouthed water Oni.

>>35571101
Night!

>>35571101
Thank you for this Quest and this thread! I love them!

>>35570984
Shoko doesn't know where she is, according to
>>35570948

>>35570639
Badass.
Thanks for running