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>>38949448
Hidesato made her escape, despite the fact you wanted to speak with her some more, and that is how Father Cristobal Harris, the only reasonable priest you've met so far, got into the Barrier. She did keep the angel off your back, without killing the young woman who was the focus for its existence, and she didn't turn on Yuuhi-chan when you had her assist. You did tell her that her friend Kushinada was in Hinata-hakase's care, but what she'll do with that information, along with the knowledge that you're a nascent demigod, you're not sure. You're hoping that the remainder of your Barrier Power over her will keep her from bandying that information about for a little while longer.

Now you have to deal with the aftermath of this mess, including the massacre of a group of Clan Ryo warriors and the Christians who were here.

[] Talk to Shoko and Yuuhi-chan, see if they can deal with some of that problem between them.
[] Go talk to Father Harris and the young lady, see what Inau-san has learned if anything.
[] First things first, interrogate those damned sorcerers, and see how badly they've fucked shit up in Tokyo.
[] Have Shoko-san and Yuuhi-chan take care of Wakaba's body first. Priorities and all.
[] Take five and cool down – you're in no condition to be dealing with anyone in the mood you're in.

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Previous Thread: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/38675358/

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

Search for Title: Ryukuza on Suptg
Barrier Combat Guide: http://pastebin.com/rZLwzvGx
Twitter: @XsQuestmistress

Hebiki Akari's Tale: http://pastebin.com/3JjNVKbY

Kurao Yui's Tale: http://pastebin.com/qYJa4PwH

Kumatori Kiki's Tale: http://pastebin.com/pdjfAEEU

Akari's Lesson (R-18): http://pastebin.com/bnGavrhP

Kiki's Gift (R-18): http://pastebin.com/sLP3NcbC

Aniki, Senpai, and Me (R-18): http://pastebin.com/U1AxYhxK

A Few Sentences from Stage 64: http://vocaroo.com/i/s1AqiYYp1QXw

Kiku, the shortest, is 5' 1" for ever and ever. Lesbian submissive.
Akari is 5' 3", and has another few inches to grow. Sexuality is weird, switch, cosplayer.
Yui is 5' 4" and will only grow due to circumstances beyond her control (though she will be able to change her size, being Void oni). Dyke, switch.
Kiki is 5' 6", and is at full growth. Bisexual bottom.
Ryukusa is tall at 5' 8", but this becomes 6' in her true form. She is fully grown. Lesbian top.
Er Yin is the tallest at 5' 10" and is fully grown. Lesbian dominant.
Jinyuu is 5' 7" but persistently hovers an extra three inches above the ground or floor because of her nature as a seer. 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 is 8” tall or 5' 5”, and is fully cat. Her sexuality is cat.
Ryuu Wakaba is deceased.
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-san is 5' 3” and confused.
Reiha is 5' 5 1/2”, and is milfy.
Peta is 3' 2”. Peta is \>.</

>>38949468
>[] First things first, interrogate those damned sorcerers, and see how badly they've fucked shit up in Tokyo.
[] Go talk to Father Harris and the young lady, see what Inau-san has learned if anything.

>>38949468
>[] Have Shoko-san and Yuuhi-chan take care of Wakaba's body first. Priorities and all.
>[] First things first, interrogate those damned sorcerers, and see how badly they've fucked shit up in Tokyo.

>>38949468
>[x] Have Shoko-san and Yuuhi-chan take care of Wakaba's body first. Priorities and all.
>[x] Go talk to Father Harris and the young lady, see what Inau-san has learned if anything.

>>38949468
>Talk to Father Harris and the young girl
Then
>Interrogate the apprentices.
Helping people first, whenever we can.

>>38949468
[X] First things first, interrogate those damned sorcerers, and see how badly they've fucked shit up in Tokyo.
[X] Have Shoko-san and Yuuhi-chan take care of Wakaba's body first. Priorities and all.
XS pls, I have to play PoE now I don't have time to quest.

>>38949468
[] Go talk to Father Harris and the young lady, see what Inau-san has learned if anything.
[] Have Shoko-san and Yuuhi-chan take care of Wakaba's body. Priorities and all.
[] Interrogate those damned sorcerers, and see how badly they've fucked shit up in Tokyo.
[] Tell Shoko and Yuuhi that they need to be ready to return immediately to defend Kiki-hime.

>>38949468
>[] Take five and cool down – you're in no condition to be dealing with anyone in the mood you're in.
>[] Have Shoko-san and Yuuhi-chan take care of Wakaba's body first. Priorities and all.

>>38949468
Good to have you back XS!

>>38949628
This.

>>38949628
>>38949720
Thank you.

>>38949545
Pause buttons.

>>38949815
Path of Exile is online and thus can't be paused when not alone.

>>38949826
>Path of Exile
Obviously I meant Pillars of Eternity anon.
And pausing is fine as such but remembering to tab out and check every so often is tougher.

>>38949839
Windowed mode leads to higher frames.

>>38949468
>[] First things first, interrogate those damned sorcerers, and see how badly they've fucked shit up in Tokyo.
>[] Have Shoko-san and Yuuhi-chan take care of Wakaba's body first. Priorities and all.

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[X] Go talk to Father Harris and the young lady, see what Inau-san has learned if anything.
[XX] First things first, interrogate those damned sorcerers, and see how badly they've fucked shit up in Tokyo.
[XX] Have Shoko-san and Yuuhi-chan take care of Wakaba's body first. Priorities and all.
[+] Warn Shoko-san and Yuuhi-chan that you might be leaving in a hurry....just in case.

You don't have time to collect yourself, not yet, so you steel yourself and prepare to deal with the usual unpleasant aftermath of any fight. It doesn't matter that you didn't actually get into much of one – a human sorcerer, no matter how good, is no match for your claws after all – but the trauma and horror of blood affects people differently, and some of these people haven't had any exposure at all.

As you walk towards Shoko and Yuuhi, though, a momentary wash of warmth fills your body, and your Pearl throbs heavily in your chest, momentarily eclipsing your heartbeat. Love, and the knowledge you are cared for, that someone believes in you, fills your mind and heart. The sensation fades quickly, but the strength it gives you does not. A prayer, said just for you.

You glance at the folded parchment paper with Wakaba's prayer on it

I am born from Stone
For others I have lived
I die as myself

Suitable, thoughtful, and eloquent. Mad poet indeed. “Shoko-san, Yuuhi-chan....”

“Yes, Ryukusa-sama?” Shoko speaks for them both.

“Wrap her body, and prepare it for burial as best you can, or at least for taking elsewhere. Clan Ryo deserves to have her back. And be ready to leave quickly, as there may be trouble at home.” The Barrier will keep things hidden, and the lack of time passing outside of it will help, but even that doesn't guarantee there won't be problems.

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>>38950109
Shoko-san bows her head. “Of course, Ryukusa-sama.” She is subdued, even for an oni-child, and you don't particularly blame her. Yuuhi simply nods, silent and respectful of the scene she's just witnessed.

A step forward turns into a sinuous, sliding flight through the distance that separates you from the others, and Father Harris recoils at your swift movement and silent landing before him. You really don't get much opportunity to fly, and it really is something you enjoy a lot when you can manage it. “Father Harris, I'm going to try and help you out. I have things to discuss with you, and there's the matter of what will happen when we leave, but I'm not planning to leave you out on your own.”

Inau-chan steps aside and gestures to the young Japanese woman who is looking at you with a great deal of awe. “Ryuu Ryukusa, this is Bishonten Mizumi. She's a diviner from Clan Uzumi, from Aomori, near Hokkaido.” Mizumi-san stands up and bows deeply, blushing. Bowing back, she stands and still looks awestruck. “Her clan isn't very active among the spirit-children,” Inau adds, explaining her shock.

“I wish we could have met under better circumstances, Bishonten-san of Uzumi. Please remain with Inau-san, and I will try and explain the situation as best I can later. Inau-san, if you could explain to Father Harris and Mizumi-san why this has happened as best you can, I will deal with the way ward acolytes.” Father Harris' brows knit and he frowns. “They're be fine. They have to answer for their master's doing though.” You lash your tail in emphasis, and the priest looks a little cowed, but seems mollified enough by your suggestion that they'll survive the experience.

>>38949468

Best Quest and Best QM are here! Yeah!

>Deep breath, baka-dragon.
>Have Shoko and Yuuhi take care of Wakaba's body

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>>38950123
Inau-san takes the priest and the young lady away, and you take a deep breath. Explaining to the young woman what happened is going to be problematic, especially if she doesn't have much experience. On the other hand, you might learn a little more from the people who victimized her....

[] Wake them all up – they're no threat.
[] Try and figure out the most senior and wake them up.
[] Wake up both girls – they'll be easier to deal with.
[] Wake up the guys, they'll be easier to manipulate.
[] Lock them in a Barrier – you'll deal with their shit later.

>>38950141
>[x] Wake them all up – they're no threat.

>>38950141
>[] Wake them all up – they're no threat.
Don't get cocky, but best to deal with them now, and all at once.

Also, just checking, but don't we still have that secretary locked in a seal or barrier?

>>38950141
> Lock them in a barrier...
Time to return to the home front. This was meant to be a distraction.

>>38950141
>[] Try and figure out the most senior and wake them up.
Might as well.

>>38950141
>[] Lock them in a Barrier – you'll deal with their shit later.

>>38950141
[x] Lock them in a Barrier – you'll deal with their shit later.

>>38950141
>[] Try and figure out the most senior and wake them up.

>>38950141
> [] Waking them all up would mean they feel the strength of a group. Take a deep breath (you have time enough for that, Ryukuza) and wake up one of the women.

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>>38950109

>tfw Best QM uses your shitty poem in-story

>>38950141
>[] Lock them in a Barrier – you'll deal with their shit later.

>>38950190
Yes, your sister has her. You also have two of your cousin's people secured and sealed.

>>38950336
Man I bet anons are gonna forget about someone we stored for later, eventually. Sucks for them huh.

We have to keep Harris and Mizumi from speaking about our demigod-hood, and protect them against the ones who wants infos on us.

Wonder if Reiha is looking for a lover...

>>38950473
Anon please, your matchmaker addiction is showing.

>>38950617

Anon, how do you want to start a fire without a matchmaker?

Alright, I'll try to be lighter in the future.

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[X] Lock them in a Barrier – you'll deal with their shit later.

You take a deep breath, giving yourself enough time for at least that....and then decide against waking any of them up. Part of the problem is that they're young, hardly older than you are, but the real issue is that they're on church property and there's a priest here. He could technically give them sanctuary.

Which means absolutely nothing to you, but you don't really want to freak out Father Harris or the diviner any more than you absolutely have to, especially with your interrogation techniques. Which really aren't THAT bad, to be honest. You've never had to do much ore than threaten. The fact that you have no qualms about backing those threats is what makes them effective, of course, but you don't really want witnesses for that.

You really ought to do something about the collection of prisoners you're making, you're running out of places to store them.

Their wounds are bound – Inau-san, most likely, there's salve and herbs in the bandaging – and they're all relatively healthy, so you sink them into the Depths of the Abyss, only a first tier technique but it's enough to bind humans tightly enough that they'll be no threat to you or to each other. Returning to Father Harris and Mizumi-san, you see Shoko-san and Yuuhi-chan approaching from the other direction, and there is a distinct lack of Wakaba's body. Inau-san is gently explaining how the prayers made Wakaba 'sick', which is a pretty huge understatement.

Now you just have to decide what to do with the other bodies.

[] Call in a Clan Ryo cleaning team.
[] Call in another favor from Chisato-chan.
[] See what Yuuhi-chan is capable of managing.
[] See what Father Harris would like done.
[] Politely but firmly correct Inau-san.

>>38950367
Nah, they either have something semi-immediate or are being taken care-of.

>>38950661
[] See what Yuuhi-chan is capable of managing.
[] See what Father Harris would like done.
[] Politely but firmly correct Inau-san.

>>38950661
>[] Politely but firmly correct Inau-san.
>[] See what Yuuhi-chan is capable of managing.

Le'ts see what she can do. At worse, we can call the Ryo goons and tell them they were ambushed by the Kaga bastards.


XS, are the Void dragonettes who warned us about the magic trees among the dead?

We need to find them, too.

>>38950661
[] See what Yuuhi-chan is capable of managing.
[] Politely but firmly correct Inau-san.
I don't want to seem like we're over-riding or micromanaging Inau-san, but we don't want convenient lies leading to future mistakes.

>>38950661
>[] Politely but firmly correct Inau-san.
>[] See what Father Harris would like done.

>>38950718
>If you mean the Void dragonettes who enchanted the trees, two are dead, and one is your prisoner.

>>38950661
[x] See what Yuuhi-chan is capable of managing.

>>38950661
>[] Politely but firmly correct Inau-san.
>[] See what Yuuhi-chan is capable of managing.

>>38950661
>[x] See what Father Harris would like done.
>[x] Politely but firmly correct Inau-san.

>>38950661
>See what Yuuhi-chan is capable of managing.
>[] Politely but firmly correct Inau-san.

>>38950846
This. We have people for bodies. The priest needs the truth.

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[X] See what Yuuhi-chan is capable of managing.
[] See what Father Harris would like done.
[X] Politely but firmly correct Inau-san.

“I'm afraid Inau-san is being gentle about the repercussions of what an exorcism can do to most spirit-children like us, Father Harris.” He turns to you, and quickly notices that the other acolytes are gone. You quickly reassure him. “They're safe and well protected, and unharmed. Well, no more so than they were after Inau-san tended their wounds. I'll let them go once I've finished speaking with them and finding out what Julian was doing exactly.” Mizumi-san is staring at you in awe again, which is actually making you a little uncomfortable to be honest.

“What do you mean, 'what he was doing'?” Father Harris isn't being aggressive about it – he seems to be genuinely concerned with how you phrased it.

“Inau-san was right – the prayers you use during an exorcism do make us sick, but it's quite a bit worse than just being 'sick'. A spirit child like myself, or Yuuhi-chan, or Shoko-san is both human and spirit at the same time, but it's not half-and-half at all. We are wholly part of both worlds, and you can't separate one from the other. It's like trying to exorcise a human soul from the human, or trying to separate hydrogen and oxygen from water. You can do it, but the consequences are just as tragic and just as terrible.” Father Harris looks ill. “How many fox-spirits did you try and exorcise from the people who seemed to have them, Father Harris?”

His answer is almost too quiet for human ears to catch. “....fifteen....” Yuuhi-chan swallows a breath, and looks like she's going to be sick; Shoko-san is about ready to engage in murder. Inau-san shakes her head sadly and poor Mizumi-san looks a little lost.

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>>38951295
You control the flood of emotions that threatens to overwhelm you. “....how many of them turned into demon-foxes when the exorcism was done?” You're not very hopeful.

“Almost all of them.” Your stomach does a slow turn. “Three of them passed away.”

“The ones that transformed are probably going to be causing a lot of trouble eventually. I know someone who can inform the proper authorities.” Your sister will be able to tell proper spiritualists and priestesses about them; you'll probably have to let Hinata-hakase know too. If too many prayers go to the demon-foxes that could be another problem. You're fairly certain that it's not going to be your problem you have plenty of your own. “I think we'll be able to make sure Mizumi-san gets home safely too; the Kaga must have had a reason for grabbing her,”

That stirs the young woman into life. “Yes, I remember, I was trying to find where the Kaga Clan were coming into the mainland from, because they were bypassing the airport and boat security. I remember locating some in a church like this one, but then....” Her excitement falters quickly. “....I don't remember what happened next. I was dreaming of fire and wind...:”

Father Harris lays a gentle hand on her shoulder and she blushes, looking down. You suppress a grin; he has no idea how familiar he's being there, you're sure of it. Yuuhi-chan is also blushing and Inau-san is studiously looking elsewhere. “I'll take responsibility, Ryukusa-san. It's the fault of my church that she's in this position, and it's only fair that I take care of her.”

….oh, come on, you only have so much willpower!

[] “Well, if you'll take responsibility then....”
[] “....aren't there vows concerning that though, Father Harris?”
[] “I have more than enough responsibility to take on my own, so that would be fair.”
[] ….no, no, that's just too much.
[] “....Father Harris, you're embarrassing her.”

>>38951308
>[] “....Father Harris, you're embarrassing her.”

>>38951308

>I'm afraid that this affair too much for you alone to handle, Father Harris.

>Mizumi-san, be assured that the Kaga clan are my foes as well.

>>38951308
[x] “....Father Harris, you're embarrassing her.”
[x] "Please be mindful of what "taking responsibility" and touching another person mean in the context of the local culture, Father."

>>38951308
[] ….no, no, that's just too much.
[] “....aren't there vows concerning that though, Father Harris?
[] “....Father Harris, you're embarrassing her.”

We are still trying to be serious, failing, but trying. It's the effort that counts right?

>>38951308
>[] “....aren't there vows concerning that though, Father Harris?”
>[] ….no, no, that's just too much.
>[] “....Father Harris, you're embarrassing her.”

>>38951396
This. Poor guy.

>>38951308
[] ….no, no, that's just too much.
[] “....Father Harris, you're embarrassing her.”
[] “....aren't there vows concerning that though, Father?”

>>38951308
>>38951396
I'm way late so I'll back this too. Stupid showers.

>>38951308

>[X] “Well, if you'll take responsibility then....”
>[X] ….no, no, that's just too much.
>[X] “....aren't there vows concerning that though, Father Harris?”

>>38951308 #
Adding to >>38951463
"I understand what you're trying to say, Father, but...maybe you should read more about our culture?"
Give him advice about where to look, along with the best anime currently around.

Sorry XS, don't want to tease too hard, but this is too much.

>>38951655
Don't worry anon, embrace it.

>>38951740
I know, but we should be respectful to Mizumi and I'd rather not push Harris into anger.

>>38951295

We shoud find clothes like that for Yuuhi.

>>38951910
Seconding. She needs special outfits as well.

>>38951308
Hooray, XS is back! I'm glad you're feeling well enough to QM

[x] “....Father Harris, you're embarrassing her.”

>>38951308
>[] “Well, if you'll take responsibility then....”
>[] “....aren't there vows concerning that though, Father Harris?”
>[] ….no, no, that's just too much.

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[X] “....aren't there vows concerning that though, Father Harris?”
[XX] ….no, no, that's just too much.
[XXX] “....Father Harris, you're embarrassing her.”

Resisting the urge – and Shoko-san is right there with you, trying to resist the deep-seated urge to tease – you smile gently. “I was lead to believe there are certain vows involving that sort of thing that most priests took, Father Harris.” Mizumi-san blinks and then looks terribly relieved. Father Harris is looking utterly baffled of course, and you explain as gently as you can, considerate of his ignorance, “When you are touching someone for whom you are taking responsibility in Japan, Father Harris, the implication is that you've been indiscreet or will be marrying them.” Of course, there are much more interesting scenarios, but you've said more than enough by how red he's turning.

This would have worked a lot better if the next words out of Mizumi-san's mouth weren't “Please take care of me, Father.”

Note to yourself, your horns stick out a lot further forward, so face-palming is not safe in this form.

Father Harris turns beet red and takes his hand from Mizumi-san's shoulder, while she smiles shyly and glances sidelong at him. Yuuhi-chan's jaw drops and Shoko-san turns around and is trying to stifle her laughter, and is failing miserably. Inau-san murmurs softly to you, “I think she is serious, Ryukusa-sama.”

“Marriage proposals aside,” you continue more seriously, “I need to know something Yuuhi-chan.”

“Hai, aniki?”

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>>38952133
Mizumi-san looks at you curiously, and you use both hands to indicate that it's not what she thinks. “Can you really use Ghost Flame, or was that a product of my insanity?” That sobers up Shoko-san very quickly. “Because we have a lot of bodies on this lawn, and a lot of them are spirit children.” Clan Ryo, to be precise, and this is one instance where you'll take names and collect ashes only. You won't have the time to do more outside a Barrier if you want to get home quickly..

Father Harris is looking around, confused, but Yuuhi nods slowly. “I can do that, aniki. There won't be anything left.”

Turning to look at Father Harris and Mizumi, you explain softly. “The bodies aren't here, in the Barrier. They're in the real world. Time doesn't pass there, or if it does, it does slowly, but there are about two dozen bodies on the lawn of the church. I suspect many of them belong to your church, but many others are from my Clan, and are not human. I can get rid of them all, but if I do there may be questions. Those questions may be much worse for you if I leave only the human bodies behind....but they're human bodies, so I have to defer to you, Father Harris.”

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>>38952146
Well, you've made him change from red to white in less than two minutes, which has got to be a world record. “I....I need to consider this, it's not something I've had to consider before. Please excuse me while I pray for guidance.” He walks a short distance away and kneels, facing the greyed out edifice of the church, hands clasped tightly.

The thing is, you have the distinct impression that it's not quite true, especially after he mentioned the trio of deaths of the nogitsune-born.

[] Ask Mizumi-san if she meant what she said about accepting his help.
[] Take this time to explain to Mizumi-san about your interesting relationship to the Kaga Clan.
[] Ask Mizumi-san why her clan was interested in the movements of the Kaga Clan.
[] Explain that she can't talk about how you look to anyone outside the Barrier, gently.
[] Examine her and Father Harris with Water Eyes.

>>38952170
>[] Examine her and Father Harris with Water Eyes
>[] Ask Mizumi-san why her clan was interested in the movements of the Kaga Clan.
>[] Explain that she can't talk about how you look to anyone outside the Barrier, gently.

>>38952170
>[] Explain that she can't talk about how you look to anyone outside the Barrier, gently.
>[] Examine her and Father Harris with Water Eyes.

>>38952170
>[] Examine her and Father Harris with Water Eyes.
>[] Explain that she can't talk about how you look to anyone outside the Barrier, gently.
>[] Take this time to explain to Mizumi-san about your interesting relationship to the Kaga Clan.

>>38952170
[X] Examine her and Father Harris with Water Eyes.
[X] Ask Mizumi-san why her clan was interested in the movements of the Kaga Clan.
[X] Explain that she can't talk about how you look to anyone outside the Barrier, gently.

>>38952170
>[] Take this time to explain to Mizumi-san about your interesting relationship to the Kaga Clan.
>[] Ask Mizumi-san why her clan was interested in the movements of the Kaga Clan.
>[] Explain that she can't talk about how you look to anyone outside the Barrier, gently.
>[] Examine her and Father Harris with Water Eyes.

>>38952170
>[] Examine her and Father Harris with Water Eyes.


>[] Take this time to explain to Mizumi-san about your interesting relationship to the Kaga Clan.

>[] Explain that she can't talk about how you look to anyone outside the Barrier, gently.

>If she is looking for allies...

>>38952170
>[] Ask Mizumi-san why her clan was interested in the movements of the Kaga Clan.
>[] Explain that she can't talk about how you look to anyone outside the Barrier, gently.

I can't tell whether Father Harris is a cool guy in over his head or not. He seemed a bit suspicious.
And I keep expecting him to draw a Magnum out of nowhere and ask whether these punks feel lucky or not.

>>38952170
>>38952199
Supporting!

>>38952248
Ah, I guess anon deleted. I'll go with >>38952220 then.

>>38952170
[] Examine her and Father Harris with Water Eyes.
[] Ask her not to tell anyone outside the barrier of our appearance inside it.
[] Ask Mizumi-san if she meant what she said about accepting his help.
[] Take this time to explain to Mizumi-san about your interesting relationship to the Kaga Clan.
[] Ask Mizumi-san why her clan was interested in the movements of the Kaga Clan.

>>38952263

you may be looking for my post here >>38952245

Sorry for deleting it

>>38952170
>[x] Explain that she can't talk about how you look to anyone outside the Barrier, gently.
>[x] Ask Mizumi-san why her clan was interested in the movements of the Kaga Clan.
>[x] Examine her and Father Harris with Water Eyes.

>>38952170
>[] Examine her and Father Harris with Water Eyes.
>[] Ask Mizumi-san if she meant what she said about accepting his help.
>[] Explain that she can't talk about how you look to anyone outside the Barrier, gently.

>>38949479
>Ryuu Wakaba is deceased.
Man, that kinda hurts more than if you had just removed her from the list.

>>38952628
We just gotta be strong, anon!

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[x] Take this time to explain to Mizumi-san about your interesting relationship to the Kaga Clan.
[X] Ask Mizumi-san why her clan was interested in the movements of the Kaga Clan.
[XX] Explain that she can't talk about how you look to anyone outside the Barrier, gently.
[XXX] Examine her and Father Harris with Water Eyes.

You study Mizumi-san with Water Eyes and see pretty much what you expected to see: a shy young woman who is dedicated in her duty to her family and her people, who is out of her depth yet enthralled by the wonder of her experience, and who has a small but very solid core of strength hidden deep in her softness. Not to mention a rather wicked sense of humor.

You've studied Father Harris before, but this time is slightly different. It's not that you don't trust him, but the things that he has done that he regrets pain him more than they used to. He doesn't consider his ignorance an excuse, and his new understanding has caused him a lot of turmoil. Even more so that he doesn't wish to let Mizumi, whom he sees as an innocent, know about those things that have tainted his past if he can help it. His prayers for guidance are less for his own sake than they are for the sake of not harming the innocent in your midst. Yet you don't see anything to indicate his intent to betray you or cause you trouble. If anything, he's more determined than he used to be to assist you and make things right.

It's been your experience that very few spiritualists of any sort, especially those with a 'clan' appellation, are innocent. But you might be a touch biased. Well, okay, really biased.

Closing your Water Eyes, you smile at Bishonten Mizumi. “Your name is a little unusual – isn't that very similar to the name of a railway station near your home?” She brightens significantly.

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>>38953181
“Yes, Ryukusa-san, it is a shortened version of Bishamonten, which is the name of the train station, named after the Buddhist deity Bishamon, the guardian of the Northern Territories.” That makes sense, given that aside from Hokkaido itself, Aomori is the northernmost point of Japan. Her profession and her interest in the Kaga Clan's activities also become a little more clear. “My clan is tasked with protecting the island of Japan from undue influences from Hokkaido, especially from yuki-onna and shiryo.” Snow ghosts and dead spirits – that also makes a certain amount of sense.

“So why were you interested in the Kaga Clan's activities? They're not especially ghostlike, and they really don't have much reason to be causing trouble to the mainland.”

She nods. “I would agree with you, but recently they have been moving things from Hokkaido into Aomori by boat and in secret. Usually it is boxes of dirt and stones, but there must be some supernatural element or reasoning, because they do not want to move them by plane or by the ferry system. The leaders of my clan asked me to investigate, but when I confronted them, something happened....” She looks a little distraught. “I don't remember what happened, really. I suppose someone must have used some charm or talisman against me.”

A diviner wouldn't have much defense against a sorcerer's seal, despite being spiritually awakened enough to use some magic themselves. Given time to prepare Julian would have been a formidable foe....which is one good thing about this entire mess. You're not sure if it was worth it, though. Still, you did your duty at the very least. Speaking of....

“Mizumi-san, I realize that this is a very new experience for you, seeing the spiritual aspects of spirit-children without help, but I'm not a typical dragon-child.”

“You're not? You look....well, you look amazing, Ryukusa-san.” She smiles and her eyes get wide again.

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>>38953211
“Well, because of what I am I'm very different from the other dragonettes. But it means you can't tell people what you saw inside the Barrier. I look much different outside of it, and you can tell anyone you like about how I look then, but if you tell anyone about this form, you might be in very serious danger.” You smile at her and she looks at you seriously. “I don't want you to get hurt on my account, so keep this appearance a secret.”

“What about the others?” she asks curiously.

“They don't look any different outside the Barrier, as far as spirit-children go.” She turns and looks at Inau-san with some surprise. Inau-san blushes faintly under her regard. “Inau-san is Ainu, so that's how she really looks, yes.” You notice Father Harris returning. “Thank you for your consideration, Mizumi-san, I appreciate it.” You give her a bow, and she bows back deeply.

Father Harris is looking a little more careworn, but you can see he's made his decision, and it's the hard one. “Ryukusa-san....please allow me to take the names of the parishioners down....and then you can dispose of the bodies.” He bows deeply. It's something of a surprise, you thought he'd take responsibility for there deaths in the less personal manner that would leave difficulties for the church, but would leave the families with bodies to inter.

[] “If you're certain, father....”
[] “I won't be able to help you with questions that may follow, if we do it that way.”
[] Take his request at face value and do as he asks.
[] ….you could stick the bodies ~Nowhere~....there is always a use for murder victims, especially if it points the finger at the enemy.
[] Ask him to say a prayer over the bodies; he's still technically a representative of the kami.

>>38953250
>[x] Take his request at face value and do as he asks.

>>38953250
>[] “If you're certain, father....”
>[] “I won't be able to help you with questions that may follow, if we do it that way.”

>>38953250
>[] “If you're certain, father....”
>[] “I won't be able to help you with questions that may follow, if we do it that way.”

>>38953250
>[x] “I won't be able to help you with questions that may follow, if we do it that way.”
>[x] Ask him to say a prayer over the bodies; he's still technically a representative of the kami.

>>38953250
>[] “If you're certain, father....”

>>38953250
>[] Take his request at face value and do as he asks.
>[] Ask him to say a prayer over the bodies; he's still technically a representative of the kami.

>>38953250
[x] “If you're certain, father....”
[x] “I won't be able to help you with questions that may follow, if we do it that way.”
[x] Ask him to say a prayer over the bodies; he's still technically a representative of the kami.

>>38953250
>[] “If you're certain, father....”
>[] Ask him to say a prayer over the bodies; he's still technically a representative of the kami.

>>38953250
>[] “If you're certain, father....”
>[] “I won't be able to help you with questions that may follow, if we do it that way.”

>>38953250
>[] Take his request at face value and do as he asks.
>[] Ask him to say a prayer over the bodies; he's still technically a representative of the kami.

Then we move as the wind

>>38953250
[] Take his request at face value and do as he asks.
[] “If you're certain, father....”
[] “I won't be able to help you with questions that may follow, if we do it that way.”
[] Ask him to say a prayer over the bodies; he's still technically a representative of the kami.
[] "Regarding the dead Nogitsune, may I have their bodies, to present to their clan?"

>>38953348
This.

>>38953510

Good idea for the remains of the Nogitsune.

>>38953510
>>38953589
Yeah, we probably should hear if that's possible.

>>38953589
Heck, we should consider looking into the sorcerer's room, see if there is anything there.

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[X] “If you're certain, father....”
[X] “I won't be able to help you with questions that may follow, if we do it that way.”
[X] Ask him to say a prayer over the bodies; he's still technically a representative of the kami.

You study him for a long moment, and while he doesn't meet your gaze, he seems sure of his choice. “All right, Father Harris. But if we do it this way, then I won't be able to help you answer any questions that may come afterwards. There won't be any evidence at all left -not even ashes will remain.” Inau glances at where the body of Wakaba had been, and realizes why there won't be blood left either.

“I understand Ryukusa-san; but I think it truly will be better this way.” He sounds more sure of himself at least.

“If you are sure, then that is what we will do. But I would ask that you say a prayer for the fallen, Father Harris.” He looks confused, as do the others. “You are still a priest in the eyes of the kami, so you can say a prayer for us in this case.” He nods solemnly. All right. Everyone, come over here please.” Taking them aside you place Mizumi into Inau-san's care, and have her keep the relatively naïve diviner towards the back. Seeing that, Shoko-san also steps towards the back, while Yuuhi-chan moves up to your side.

Father Harris crosses himself as you drop the Barrier.

The smell of blood and viscera slaps you in the face; you're sensitive enough when it's just one or two, but two dozen or more bodies is an atrocity. Father Harris chokes a little but you whisper softly, “Be strong; we have to wait until your done or they won't have peace in their afterlives.”

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>>38953866
Your words galvanize him a little, more for their sincerity than for the tone or reliance on his prayers. Yuuhi-chan listens to his prayers curiously, though you know she doesn't speak anything other than Japanese and Ainu, and you're somewhat surprised to discover his native tongue is German. He nods when he finishes and you clap your hands twice, closing the ceremony for him. It occurs to you that you should see what he did with the nogitsune-born bodies.; but this takes precedence for the moment.

You nod to Yuuhi-chan, and she holds out her hands, her eyes bursting into sickly green flame....then the corpses ignite, Ghost Fire consuming the bodies entirely. You watch as they burn, and call down rain to wash the blood from the lawn into the earth, where it will nurture the grass. Yuuhi-chan is breathing hard by the time she's done, and it takes a good four or five minutes for the flames to consume the dead. She goes to her knees, breathing heavily when the last flame dies out, her ears as limp as her tail.

[] Check on the others, then help her up.
[] Hugs for your nogitsune-chan.
[] Thank her softly and stroke her hair gently, then make sure Mizumi is all right..
[] Have Shoko-san scout the area on a cloud quickly, and help Yuuhi-chan to her feet.
[] Say a prayer yourself, and say one on behalf of Yuuhi-chan too.

>>38953940
[x] Thank her softly and stroke her hair gently, then make sure Mizumi is all right..

>>38953940
>[] Hugs for your nogitsune-chan.
>[] Thank her softly and stroke her hair gently, then make sure Mizumi is all right..

>>38953940
>[] Hugs for your nogitsune-chan.

>>38953940
>[] Hugs for your nogitsune-chan.
>[] Thank her softly and stroke her hair gently, then make sure Mizumi is all right..

>>38953940
>[] Have Shoko-san scout the area on a cloud quickly, and help Yuuhi-chan to her feet.
>[] Hugs for your nogitsune-chan.
>[] Say a prayer yourself, and say one on behalf of Yuuhi-chan too.

>>38953940
[] Have Shoko-san scout the area on a cloud quickly, and help Yuuhi-chan to her feet.
[] Say a prayer yourself, and say one on behalf of Yuuhi-chan too.
[] Hugs for your nogitsune-chan.
[] Thank her softly and stroke her hair gently, then make sure Mizumi is all right..

>>38953940
>[] Check on the others, then help her up.
>[] Hugs for your nogitsune-chan.
>[] Say a prayer yourself, and say one on behalf of Yuuhi-chan too.

>>38953940
>[] Check on the others, then help her up.
>[] Hugs for your nogitsune-chan.
>[] Thank her softly and stroke her hair gently, then make sure Mizumi is all right..
>[] Say a prayer yourself, and say one on behalf of Yuuhi-chan too.

>Water Eyes

>>38953940
>[] Hugs for your nogitsune-chan.
>[] Thank her softly and stroke her hair gently, then make sure Mizumi is all right..

>>38953940
>[] Hugs for your nogitsune-chan.
>[] Say a prayer yourself, and say one on behalf of Yuuhi-chan too.

>>38953940
We should probably let him know about our need for priests to help make a home for the cats that he's been hunting.

>>38954087

Not now, I think

The compensation his church owns to the Nogistune and cat yokai is big enough for this, anyway.

>>38953181
I think we've found Kiki-hime's beach outfit!

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[X] Take care of the dead, Yuuhi, the location, and everyone else. That's what you do.

When Yuuhi-chan is finished, you lay your hands on her shoulders and pray softly, for the rest of the spirits you've set free, for the sacrifice that Wakaba made for everyone's safety, and for the gifts that your family brought to you, in your need. Yuuhi-chan smiles up at you, clearly exhausted; Ghost Fire apparently uses her Shen as well. You stroke her hair as you pray, and she lowers her head, listening and relaxing under your touch.

When you finish you hug her from behind, nuzzling her carefully, and she smiles and rests her hands over your arms lightly. “I will be okay, aniki. It's just hard.” You nod, knowing what she means.

Mizumi-san stares at you as you turn and gesture at Shoko, who looks confused until you back the gesture with orders. “Shoko-san, do a quick circle, see if we're going to have any trouble after that display. Don't engage, just look.” She nods and leaps a good fifteen feet in the air before landing on a cloud which whisks her away at a surprising rate of speed. Mizumi-san watches with wonder in her eyes, and you have the feeling that any trauma she might have suffered from the sight of the bodies is going to have less impact than what she just saw.

“Thank you for your prayers, Father Harris, but now I'm afraid I have more difficult things for you.” He nods, and steels himself. “What happened to the nogitsune-children that didn't make it.”

The priest looks down, unhappily. “They were cremated an their ashes interned in holy ground.”

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>>38954822
Well, not exactly unprecedented, though it's a little unusual to your thinking. “I would like to return their ashes to their clan, if I could. And please, don't allow any more of your people to perform exorcisms on anyone. There are many spiritualists and priests who can do such things with more familiarity concerning the local....inhabitants.” You suppress a shudder, thinking of what might have happened if they'd been unlucky enough to encounter Rie in person, or a powerful youkai that didn't feel like being exorcised.

“Believe me, I'll make sure nothing like this ever happens again, Ryukusa-san. I appreciate the amount of forbearance and concern you've been showing us.” You blink at him, and incline your head.

Inau-san and Mizumi-san are all right it seems, and Mizumi-san walks up to you. “Thank you for rescuing me, Ryukusa-san. Her is a number where you can reach me at.” She presents you with a card, and you reciprocate. “I'll try and see if my clan has found out anything more of the Kaga Clan's activities. Inau-san said that they were involved in some shady business with your enemies.” Technically correct, if not quite accurate, considering the head of their clan is marrying his son off to your wife. Well, would be, if you hadn't stolen her heart first. Aaaand got her pregnant.

Shoko lands nearby. “There isn't any shit going down that we can't fucking handle, aniki.” Kamidamnit! “But we should get a move on.” She take a large jar of sake out of ~Nowhere~, and takes several large gulps; going to one knee, she sprays the alcohol into the cloud she's created, and it swells to twice it's size. “It won't last long, but this will get us home in a fucking flash.”

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>>38954851
“She's right – I don't want to take the chance that they'll move their timetables up for us.” You bow to the priest and the diviner. “Thank you for your help and for your understanding. We'll talk again soon.” Shoko helps Inau-san and Yuuhi-chan onto her cloud, and you step onto it, immediately getting a sense of how it will move and what it can do. “Home, quickly.” You settle onto the front of it, sitting half-lotus at Shoko-san's feet, and the cloud whisks you and your warriors away.

The trip is quick, and she lands you on the back porch. You walk in first, unsurprised to see Akari-chan at the table, working on her computer. She holds up her hand and you stop dead, and prevent anyone else from coming inside.

“Somebody set up us the bomb.”

“...what? Was that even English?”

“It's on the coffee table.”

….Well. There is indeed a box with magical seals on it, addressed to your apartment, and you can smell the explosives in it. You haven't had to deal with one of those in years.

Apparently, someone got bored of waiting on you.

>To Be Continued....

>>38954871
Thanks for running XS!

I hope you've enjoyed playing and reading.

With any luck I will be continuing tomorrow morning.

>>38954871
Geez, bombs? How quaint.
Thanks for the thread.

>>38954905
It is nice that you are well enough to run quests again. Thanks for the thread, looking forward to tomorrow.

>>38954871
>sealing a bomb
Sounds like the delinquent version of a girl inside a cake. Put a spirit girl inside a bomb.

I arrived late, but thanks anyway, XS.

>>38954905
Thank you for running, XS. Would it be possible to set up an exchange of information with Father Harris and other like-minded priests so something like this doesn't happen again?

>>38954905
Looking forward to it! Was a fun session today, if a bit sombre being post-Wakaba and such.

Thanks for running!

>>38954962
It is possible, yes. Typically that sort of thing doesn't happen, as most of those who have such problems go to Japanese mystics and spiritualists. "Father" Julian and his fellow out of towners came with an agenda - hence the prisoners you plan on interrogating.