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>>1886452
Obviously you're not going to do anything rash – Yamada has shared sake with the oyabun of the Shinkai Yakuza, and that makes him essentially untouchable if you want things to go smoothly. And you seriously doubt he's stupid enough to push you too far in any case, especially since you let him know you have regular dealings with the Hojo Technical Group. They straddle the worlds of supernatural and human criminal underworlds, but you suspect Mikurabe has already told him more than he should know about such matters. If he can see your supernatural natures, he hides it better than she did.

The winning smile that you put on for the bartender conceals all these thoughts of course, and he doesn't ask you for an identification card, because currently you're looking marvelously adult, even though at 19 you really shouldn't be drinking. You hold up a hand to Yamada-sama. “Please allow me, I insist!” He politely refuses twice, of course, then relents as you insist on paying. Unlike many of your kin, you have actual money set aside, and not just for situations like these. Kiku-chan gets oolong tea, while Yamada-san gets a very nice smoky scotch, while his wife insists on sparkling water. Plum wine for yourself, the sweet liquor warming you though it's not nearly potent enough to do anything more.

[] Water Eyes; see what you can glean of them now that you have more information to work with.
[] Fire eyes; you need to see deeper now, and find out what you are up against.
[] Relax and open the conversation with some polite chit chat for the moment.
[] A couple of gentle probing questions to open them up before using Water Eyes is good.
[] You're really quite curious about one thing – his wife seemed very interested in your preferences earlier.

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Twitter: @XsQuestmistress

Previous Thread: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/1849048/

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

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

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

Megaupload of the RTF document of Ryukusa Quest (links to archive included): https://mega.nz/#!Biwj0bIb!r0TxRfhDf6PeTXNE9N1EQFF6mmGzFho3u_IcQvC7Ga8

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

>Ryukusa's Treasures

Her name: Ryuu Yorihokura

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shikoku Naya, her fashion teacher and seamstress.

Hisaka Subaru, her weaver and dressmaking teacher.

Ryukusa's Family.

>Talismans:
Akari – Black Jade Centipede (Mukade)
Er Yin – Black Jade Scorpion (Sasori)
Kiki – Black Jade Toad (Hikigaeru)
Kiku – Black Jade Lizard (Tokage)
Yui – Black Jade Snake (Hebi)
Inau – Black Coral Ear Cuff (Amatsukami)

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Ryuu Ryukusa is tall at 5' 8"; 6' in her true form. She is fully grown. Lesbian top.
Matagama Kiku is 4' 1” for ever and ever. Lesbian submissive.
Ryuu Akari is 5' 3" and has another few inches to grow. Sexuality is weird, switch, cosplayer.
Ryuu Yui is 6' 3” and will only grow due to circumstances beyond her control. Dyke, switch.
Ryuu Kiki is 5' 6" and is at full growth. Bisexual bottom.
Er Yin Long is the tall at 5' 10" and is fully grown. Lesbian dominant.
Ryuu Jinyuu is 5' 7" but persistently hovers an extra three inches. Straight.
Hinata-hakase is 6' 3". Sexuality is terrifying.
Hidesato is 5' 5". Straight.
Kushinada is 5' 8". Straighter.
Taisho Ryoga is 5' 9". Who knows.
Hyun Chisato is 5' 4” and is fully grown. Lolicon with plausible deniability.
Rie, just Rie, is 8” tall or 5' 5” and is fully cat. Her sexuality is cat.
Hagyu Genso is 12' 5” standing upright. He is by and large gay.
Mizumi Shoko is 7' 2” is fully grown. Bisexual top.
Yuuhi is 4'11” and is fully grown. Yuuhi a cute.
Tokei Isusangi, Inau-kun is 5' 3” and is much less confused.
Reiha is 5' 5 1/2” and is milfy.
Peta is 3' 2” Peta is \>.</ aka Her Most Imperial Highness Patanjali Piri Yokuhime Kuronogitsune Pa
Detective-san aka Mugon Chujo is fully grown at 5'11” and straight.
Kenji Soomi is 5' 4” and gothic lolita.
Musumi Kanako is 5' 6.5” and is pretty straight.
Hebiki Naoto is 5' 9” and belligerently omnivorous, sexually. You hope only sexually.
Kodachi Umetsume is 5' 4” and fully grown. Practicing asexual.
Melinda Blitzenberg is scattered to the winds and blessed in death.
Toshida Ginka is 5” 3” and fully grown. Turtles have a reputation.
Ryuu Wakaba is a head shorter and also deceased.
Margaret Steinhausen is gratefully dead.
Ryuu Sakumo is dead and spread far and wide.
Ryuu Nabiki is 5' 3” and fully transformed. Embarrassingly straight.
Ryuu Shinju is 4' 11” and fully grown. She is coy, maybe a dodomeki-child.
Ryuu Himeyuri is 5' 5” and is supposedly straight.
Ryuu Fuuta is 5' 6” and slightly less soft.
Kaga Kei is 5' 4” and fully grown. Might be experimental.
Kyubi-san is 6' 3” and fully grown. Hard to say.
Hisaka Subaru is 5' tall and 9' tall, and peculiar as all get out.
Shikoku Naya is 5' 4" (not including heels) and is fully grown. Entirely flexible.
Shinkai Yamada is 5' 7” and is straight.
Shinkai Mikurabe is 5' 2” (without heels) and is probably less straight than you thought.

>>1886454
>[x] A couple of gentle probing questions to open them up before using Water Eyes is good.
Give us a basis to work from! Today's Ryukusa is espionage-flavored with zero calories.

>>1886454
>[] Relax and open the conversation with some polite chit chat for the moment.
>[] A couple of gentle probing questions to open them up before using Water Eyes is good.

>>1886454
>[X] Relax and open the conversation with some polite chit chat for the moment.

>>1886454
>[] Relax and open the conversation with some polite chit chat for the moment.
>[] A couple of gentle probing questions to open them up before using Water Eyes is good.

>>1886454
>[] A couple of gentle probing questions to open them up before using Water Eyes is good.

>>1886454
>[] Relax and open the conversation with some polite chit chat for the moment.
>[] A couple of gentle probing questions to open them up before using Water Eyes is good.

>>1886454
>[] Fire eyes; you need to see deeper now, and find out what you are up against.
>[] Relax and open the conversation with some polite chit chat for the moment.
Morning XS

Hi XS!

I hope things are as good as they can be for you and your friends.

>>1886454
>[] Water Eyes; see what you can glean of them now that you have more information to work with.
>[] You're really quite curious about one thing – his wife seemed very interested in your preferences earlier.

I think we should start strong with Water Eye, but also that if Ryukusa found something curious, we should go to the bottom of it.

To be very interested in our preferences, the yakuza's wife must have some ideas involving them in mind, and knowing what the Kago do it's not reassuring.

>>1886495

Leave Fire Eyes to Kiku, we can't do everything ourself

>>1886508
Though Ryukusa certainly is the type to try! But it's her job and ours to stop that kind of nonsense, and the opportunity cost of using Fire Eyes first is a waste as well when we could cover both types with Kiku in less time.

I suppose if we asked Akari to hack into those two people's files, she wouldn't have the time to finish it during the pause, right?

Even if Yui helps

Well, we could ask Akari to do it over several interruptions, but it'd be difficult and she already has tons of work

>>1886520
Not during the play - remember a Noh Drama is partly religious in natureand she's dedicated to it at the moment.

>>1886520

On the other hand, leaking all the compromising info to the oyabun and have the Yakuza come to grab them at the end of the performance -if they have done something to warrant it, of course- would be fitting.

Especially when the whole play is about not abusing your family, not threatening Ryukusa's family, and sure as hell not keep trying to attack and bullshit Ruykusa when she gives you a way out.

>>1886528

Completely understandable.

I have a question about this, though. It was mentioned way back that including supernatural beings into works for the mortals was a way to empower said beings, due to maintaining them into public consciousness. So, did the first act technically give power to the dead Oni' soul?

>>1886536
Technically, yes, but he's still and forever stuck in Yomi - it's essentially a prayer of sorts, and one prayer isn't really enough to give him the power to break free of Yomi's grasp. Yomi is nigh inescapable - Izanami is a VERY jealous being, and would be very upset by a mere dead person succeeding where she failed.

>>1886578

If she escaped, how bad would it be?

>>1886594
Don't even joke anon.

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[X] Relax and open the conversation with some polite chit chat for the moment.
[XX] A couple of gentle probing questions to open them up before using Water Eyes is good.

With that disarming smile – which is genuine in its own way – you lean over, your tail sliding casually to brush across Kiku-chan's lap under the table. Mikurabe-sama is definitely following the movement, though it is hardly more than a twitch of the eyes; she doesn't see what you write along the leg of your Fire dragonette's thigh (because of the table, of course). Kiku-chan simply looks at the Shinkai's with those golden eyes that reveal nothing, her expression unchanging.

“Scotch, Yamada-sama? I would have been embarrassed if I'd ordered you the sake that I thought you would have preferred,” you admit honestly, much to his subdued amusement.

“I acquired a taste for it when I was younger; my old man was a connoisseur of such things, and while I've never fallen into the same pattern of drinking as he did, I do enjoy the occasional drink with polite company.” He swirls the glass of scotch slowly, letting the liquor wash over the ice. “Plum wine? A Chinese delicacy, I understand.”

“Mmh! I have a sweet tooth, which is something a woman my age should never have, it will definitely make things difficult in the upcoming years!” He chuckles at your self inflicted joke, as Kiku-chan sips her own drink through a straw, her eyes bright and wide. “Ah, my apologies! This is Matagama Kiku, a close friend, who attends the same schools I have. Her minder needed a moment to herself. She is a very intelligent young lady and is, as you can clearly see, one of Kumatori Kiku's adoring fans.”

Taking the cue immediately, Kiku-chan nods twice, making soft affirmative noises. Yamada is unimpressed, but Mikurabe is immediately and thoroughly charmed, her eyes lighting up and a genuine smile making her much prettier than makeup ever will.

“She's lovely – and where on earth did you get that costume! Though, it's hardly a costume, is it....” Mikurabe-sama leans close and offer her hand, which Kiku-chan unhesitatingly takes, rather than bowing. The flare of Kiku's Fire Eyes is immediate and potent, though naturally no one else notices. “I'm honored to meet you, Matagama-san!”

“You may call me Kiku,” she replies immediately, her tone bright and cheerful, her smile indistinguishable from the real thing. “As for this....Ryukusa-sama made it for me.”

Yamada's eyebrows mount an assault on his forehead, while Mikurabe looks rather startled. You incline your head demurely, and look happily apologetic. “It's a hobby of mine, nothing more, really.”

“That is an amazing amount of talent; I am surprised yet again,” comments Yamada-sama with interest. “You are a woman of many such talents it seems, Ryukusa-sama.”

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>>1886623
Mikurabe-sama is looking over Kiku-chan with interest above and beyond her draconic nature now, and not merely the clothing. Kiku-chan surreptitiously rubs her fingers together, orange sparks and fine black ash falling away while she conceals it with her sleeve. “Only a hobby? It seems a waste, Ryukusa-sama – the costumes on stage are only a little less elaborate and well designed!”

“You really are flattering me too much; I wouldn't be worthy of such comparisons.” You blink and smile, your Water Eyes showing you what they work so hard to conceal.

Yamada-sama is uncertain of what your angle is, and that makes him understandably wary; despite that he suspects you could be cultivated into a very powerful ally, one that couldd tilt the balance of power into his favor. He's not really wrong, of course but he's placed himself against you already. His ambitions are high, but he is a realistic sort of fellow and is well aware he's not really high enough to be considered for the promotions and power that he seeks just yet. This is part of what bothers him about Chisato's unusual extracurricular activities; she seems to have gained the kind of support that he has been seeking for several years overnight. His attempts to push her are more an attempt to see how extensive her new support is, and where it stems from, than any true malice towards her. His thinking is that if he can get her benefactors to reveal themselves, he will be able to make them a better deal.

Well, he got his wish....which is he most likely going to regret sorely.

Mikurabe-sama is another matter entirely. This arranged marriage is annoying, but fortunately Yamada is something of a hedonist and a sophisticate, willing to indulge her in many ways that another might not. Half of her indulgences are to distract him from her real work, and the other are to keep her occupied while she waits for orders or to gather strength and power to manage her work. The Kaga need her here, she understands that, but it is galling to be so far away from the centers of power, relegated to what is – for her – a backwater city with no real power for her to take. The Million Gods of Japan already fill the place, leaving little for an outlander sorceress to take and use. Still, every little bit of personal power she can accrue is worth it, be it nogitsune-born criminals, tiny wellsprings of Chi from the Dragon Lines that haven't been fully concealed or used, or a clever and interesting dragon with ties to her Clan's allies. The latter, of course, being you, and she is willing to go to great lengths to gain your interest, trust – even if it means debasing herself in an attempt to gain your affections.

Very informational, and not a little disturbing.

>>1886623
>bringing prettyboys to a Ryukusa Quest
Yamada is very poorly prepared!

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>>1886637
(She's a moderately skilled sorceress but she has very little power, aniki. Her charm would have worked on anyone except you, me, or my master, though Yuuhi is probably beyond her skills entirely. Yamada is entirely human, and does not see the real world. He is ambitious, terribly ambitious, but has enough patience to achieve his goals in time – he lacks malice in his actions, but he is ruthless. She is chafing, desperate to attain her own goals soon, but this place is too foreign to her for her to gain any headway. She is dangerous, aniki, because she lacks the patience to wait for the strength to come to her. She would make deals to garner her power.)

Well, that's terrible news. You're damned lucky that Oba-san didn't find out about her. If she had, it would have been obvious – this woman isn't exactly subtle.

With ten minutes left, you can easily continue the conversation and possibly lay some groundwork. Or set them up even further. What to do, what to do....

[] Make it clear that you're amenable to a clandestine and personal meeting later on....
[] Polite chitchat continues – and perhaps maybe another chat at the next interlude.
[] Offer to make more immediate arrangements to see Kumatori Kiki with them in tow.
[] Focus a little on Yamada, see if he can be guided away from his foolish actions.
[] Focus a little on Mikurabe, see if she can be convinced that her actions are dangerous.

>>1886637
>>1886643
Hmm, Mikurabe is interesting. I do wonder how much she cares about her pal's underworld dealings in the grand scheme of things. Unfortunate how she's a giant powder keg and all.
>[x] Polite chitchat continues – and perhaps maybe another chat at the next interlude.
>[x] Focus a little on Mikurabe, see if she can be convinced that her actions are dangerous.
I just hope the latter isn't too premature.

>>1886643
>[x] Polite chitchat continues – and perhaps maybe another chat at the next interlude.
>[x] Focus a little on Mikurabe, see if she can be convinced that her actions are dangerous.
>Failing that, turn her greed against her.

>>1886647
Maybe, but she's the only person that really matters in this exchange.

>>1886643
>[] Polite chitchat continues – and perhaps maybe another chat at the next interlude.

>>1886643
>[] Polite chitchat continues – and perhaps maybe another chat at the next interlude.
>[] Make it clear that you're amenable to a clandestine and personal meeting later on....
It's possible we might need to get more involved to get this matter settled decisively.

>>1886643
>[] Focus a little on Mikurabe, see if she can be convinced that her actions are dangerous.
If it works great, if not invite them for a personal meeting later so we can deal with her then

I'm not opposed to a meeting as such, but will we have time to deal with outside matters once the play is over and Ryukusa has to shower her family with affection and, in the case of Kiki, perhaps some lightly amused reprimands?

>>1886643
>[] Make it clear that you're amenable to a clandestine and personal meeting later on....
>[] Focus a little on Yamada, see if he can be guided away from his foolish actions.

>Shinkai Mikurabe is 5' 2” (without heels) and is probably less straight than you thought.
>even if it means debasing herself in an attempt to gain your affections.

Uh.

>She's a moderately skilled sorceress but she has very little power, aniki. Her charm would have worked on anyone except you, me, or my master, though Yuuhi is probably beyond her skills entirely.

Isn't this contradictory, though. I mean, to be able to charm anyone but those four is very impressive.

>>1886643
>[X] Focus a little on Yamada, see if he can be guided away from his foolish actions.

>>1886672
Charm uses more skill than power, I imagine. Also, specialization.

>>1886643

>[] Make it clear that you're amenable to a clandestine and personal meeting later on....

>[] Focus a little on Yamada, see if he can be guided away from his foolish actions.


I say focusing a little on Mikurabe won't be enough, right now.

We need to try to make Yamada stop doing his foolish stuff, and then meet Mikurabe in private to really discuss with her.

Also, we need to know how much Mikurabe knows about her family's operations.

>>1886657

Of course we will.

>>1886672
>Uh.
XS certainly has a polite way of saying she'd be more at home in a lewd quest! Clearly she should have signed up for slave duty over in Raiders instead.

>>1886680
I kind of agree with that hence my worrying it would be premature. If we end up going for a meeting then I'm for switching to working on Yamada for now since he's gonna be easier to handle (especially now we know he'll probably let off Chisato with barely any pressure).

>>1886672
A powerful sorceress wouldn't have needed a charm to try and influence anyone - Er Yin could very easily trap Yui or Akari in illusions and bindings just by talking to them. Mikurabe had to build a magical device to attempt it at all, which requires skill, and an investment of power over a long time.

>>1886672
Personal preference matters less in the path for power. In any case, that description is from before our further insights in thread.

>>1886675
>>1886689
We shouldn't underestimate her either way
Clearly she's crafty at least, and apparently willing to go to great lengths to get her way

>>1886686

This quest is lewd, though.

All those dragonettes and oni-girls walking around with bare horns.

>>1886740
Dragonettes are innocent and chaste! Ryukusa is a loyal family woman! Foreign temptress go home!

>>1886745

No, we're keeping Er Yin.

>>1886747

Though it would be accurate she's keeping us, too.

what with her hoarding our priestess.

>>1886747
>>1886748
Ah, but Er Yin falls under the category of innocent and chaste dragonettes, and therefore cannot be a temptress however foreign she may be.

>>1886751
Well... I'll grant her "pure" at least.

Pure sex.

>>1886751
>>1886776
I feel like Er Yin might take a claim that she 'can't be a temptress' as very rude defamation, haha

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[XX] Polite chitchat continues – and perhaps maybe another chat at the next interlude.
[X] Focus a little on Yamada, see if he can be guided away from his foolish actions.
[X] Focus a little on Mikurabe, see if she can be convinced that her actions are dangerous.
[X] Make it clear that you're amenable to a clandestine and personal meeting later on....

You lean back in your seat and stroke Kiku-chan's neatly mussed hair lightly, smiling at Yamada and his wife. “To be perfectly honest, I had dreams of becoming a costume designer, but the glut of cos-play professionals has really made it quite difficult to catch a break, especially so close to Harajuku. Really, between the Phantom Designer and the recent spate of....mmm....self published photographers,” this last said with a wink at Yamada's wife, who smiles and looks away unblushing, while her husband chuckles softly, “there's just no call for someone like me.”

“That is unfortunate. On the other hand, you seem to have made quite a bit of headway into certain professional worlds, which is not a small accomplishment, Ryukusa-sama. The Hojo Technical Group is very discerning, and even as a woman you've made some headway into that organization. I really would hesitate to say you're untalented in many ways.” You blush a little, entirely artificial on your part but effective. “In all seriousness, Miss Ryuu, you really could become quite the powerful young woman if you desired to do so.”

Well, if he's opened the door, it would be silly not to walk him through it.

“That almost sounds like a counter-offer to an offer I wasn't aware was made, Yamada-sama! I mean....” You pause and look thoughtfully at your 'ward', and the at the clock. “Well, I couldn't possible think of discussing such delicate matters in front of a child -” Said child sticks her tongue at you and makes a face, exactly as she should as you're not her mother and talking down to her at her age. “-but her minder will be available next intermission, and I would really love to hear about what you are considering.”

Mikurabe glances at her husband and lays a hand on his thigh, leaning close. “I think that's a lovely idea. Perhaps we could borrow one of the private rooms in the theater?” You watch with Void Eyes wide open as she using just a touch, just a tiny smidgen of Shen, enough to encourage him to listen to her suggestion. Skilled, but not powerful perhaps, but Kiku-chan's version of 'powerful' may not match up to your broader definition.

“That is a very good idea. I'll arrange it with the owner of the theater; he's a dear friend.” Under the thumb of the Yakuza, of course. Shinkai has a lot of strings to pull in Tokyo. “Not that your company isn't lovely too, young miss – you're very polite, and I respect that.” This Yamada directs to Kiku, who widens her eyes and blushes, squirming a little in her seat at the attention of a handsome young man, as appropriate.

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>>1886838
You really have to give her credit for not immolating him where he sits.

“I think that would be fine, of course – though I hope it won't be as crowded there as we have to be here,” you mention with a sly look at his personal bodyguards. The one that you kicked out of your seat gives you a nasty smirk, while the other two grin and appraise you. She can't help it: Mikurabe glances at one of the other four men, the powerfully built and older gentleman who casually drinks his coffee and ignores her. Shinkai Kakunemo's man, and the other three as well. Definitely here to guard her. “Though if it were cozy that might be nice.”

Yamada-sama coughs softly, but he doesn't blush, affecting a slightly offended demeanor, while Mikurabe smiles at you, appraises you. Her smile is welcoming, warm, and utterly a mask for the desire she has. Not the base ones either, but her need to garner some measure of power. You bat your eyelashes for her, just once; her smile widens and she looks down, mostly, but there is no more actual heat in that glance than there was before.

It's going to be very difficult to guide either of these two away from their chosen paths, you surmise. He is too focused, she too needy. Still, it's better that you try and fail before ruining everything they've been working towards so far in your meeting with the oyabun. And despite your attitude and suggestive behavior, sex with Mikurabe is out of the question – she's still a sorceress, and she is way to desperate in other ways. There's definitely no attraction for you there, pretty as she is. You'd sooner have sex with Himeyuri.

A gentle tug on your blouse makes you glance at Kiku-chan. “Ah, I've just been informed it's time to get back.” Yamada stands, and then you, finally Mikurabe, who watches Kiku-chan dismount from the stool, coldly and calculating, wondering. As amusing as that might be, you'll definitely want to warn her off of any such ideas for her own safety. “Thank you kindly for your attention, Yamada-sama, Mikurabe-sama. I look forward to the next kyogen more than perhaps is polite!”

The bow and laugh politely at your joke, and they leave, as you settle the tab. “Oh, there you are, sweetheart!” The flamboyantly gay voice of the nogitsune draws your attention as she wraps his arms about your neck. You indulge him, sliding your arm about his waist and letting him feel your talons lightly at his side. “We've been looking just everywhere for you, sweetie!” His less flamboyant human half is smiling a little, indulging his friend, whose tail is quite firmly fluffed out in alarm despite his easygoing look. The human fellow strokes Kiku-chan's hair and then looks mildly alarmed, and slowly moves his slightly smoking hand away, tucking it into his pocket as she glares up at him.

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>>1886846
“Genma, I'm not that hard to find, really. We were just on our way back.” You take your change and Kiku-chan by the hand and the pair follow you.

Once outside Genma speaks softly but rapidly. “The redhead isn't human – he's a spirit-child of some sort, but I haven't the foggiest idea of what.” Now THAT is worth the familiarity alone. You didn't realize he wasn't human, and Kiku-chan's surprise is even more astounding given she had Fire Eyes active. “The others are all human, but the fellow with glasses could see us properly.”

“Just so you know, Yamada's bodyguards have done wet-work and cover-ups for him in the past. You've gotten on Hiei's bad side, and he's a frightening bastard,” Agato informs you. The asshole you kicked out of your seat, apparently. “He might not realize it, but he's taken down several nogitsune as well as their human partners. He hasn't killed any of us – yet – but we're not pushovers, sukeban.”

“Thanks – that's helpful. You don't have to worry about us any more. Just....hmn.”

[] Have them and their friends focus specifically on Kiki-hime and Fuuta-chan.
[] Arrange an “armed” escort for the actors one and all, just to give it the veneer of realism.
[] Just have them go on as Akari has arranged; she's done well enough so far.
[] See what can be arranged at the 'booth' if they can figure out which one Yamada wants.
[] Ask if he can arrange something to disguise your power level – not that power level! The other one!

>>1886852
>[] Arrange an “armed” escort for the actors one and all, just to give it the veneer of realism.
>[] Ask if he can arrange something to disguise your power level – not that power level! The other one!

>>1886852
>[] See what can be arranged at the 'booth' if they can figure out which one Yamada wants.
>[] Ask if he can arrange something to disguise your power level – not that power level! The other one!

>>1886852
>[x] See what can be arranged at the 'booth' if they can figure out which one Yamada wants.
>Inform Akari of the situation, and invite her to make security changes using any or all of our available resources if necessary.
As an extension of our trust in her, but with being better informed.

>>1886852
>[] Just have them go on as Akari has arranged; she's done well enough so far.
Sorry I'm having kind of an off day today, so I'm kind of confused. Is Ryukusa worried that Hiei and Yamada's bodyguards are gonna attempt to attack people at this venue?

>>1886852
>[X] Just have them go on as Akari has arranged; she's done well enough so far.
Best not tamper with Akaris plans.

>>1886884
No, she's worried that Kiki-hime and her allies will be mobbed by adoring fans, and as powerful as Yui, Akari, and Yuuhi are, they can't go all out on helpless mortals, and they can't use a Bartrier because there are lots of spirit-children fans as well (and possibly other....things....watching).

>>1886852
>[x] Arrange an “armed” escort for the actors one and all, just to give it the veneer of realism.
>[x] See what can be arranged at the 'booth' if they can figure out which one Yamada wants.
>[x] Ask if he can arrange something to disguise your power level – not that power level! The other one!

>>1886852
>[] Arrange an “armed” escort for the actors one and all, just to give it the veneer of realism.
>[] Ask if he can arrange something to disguise your power level – not that power level! The other one!

I must go and fetch lunch for my friend and I. I will continue upon return. I plan on extending my usual time to 4:00 or maybe 5:00.

And writing the next act in my head for the play.

>>1886852
Shit, almost missed this vote.
>[x] Arrange an “armed” escort for the actors one and all, just to give it the veneer of realism.
>[x] See what can be arranged at the 'booth' if they can figure out which one Yamada wants.
I do imagine Akari has it controlled but this looks good at least.

>>1886934
That's fine, take care XS! I'll try and make it to the end even if it's drawing late!

We still have most of the play to go, right?

>>1887021
yupyup

>>1887047
Gonna be fun to see what performances we get then

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>>1886934
Back, writing.

>>1887053
>>1887021
4 more parts.

>>1887054
>boobs with nameplate
Censorship is getting out of hand!

>>1887054
Murcielago is quite fun
A bit tough to take the drama seriously with how goofy the characters are though

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[X] Arrange an “armed” escort for the actors one and all, just to give it the veneer of realism.
[X] See what can be arranged at the 'booth' if they can figure out which one Yamada wants.
[X] Ask if he can arrange something to disguise your power level – not that power level! The other one!
[+] Inform Akari of your interference with whatever plans she may have set up – just in case.

After marveling a moment at the fact that someone recognizes you're a female, and then debating on whether being called a female gang banger is offensive or not, you decide to run some very minor but possibly very important things by the flamboyant nogitsune and his partner.

“Give me a rundown on the basic security protocols Akari-niji-chan has implemented.” After a quick and somewhat startled glance at his companion Agato, Genma wraps an arm over your shoulder and grins, talking softly but moving expansively and gesturing wildly.

“We're arranged in five groups, covering the actors exit in back and the two for patrons. Another in the crowd, scattered, and another spread around the streets. Twenty-four pairs in total, with the two extra pairs in the audience and the street, respectively. Every group has a whisperer-”

“Void-capable,” explains Kiku-chan and you give her an odd look before Genma continues.

“-and a few other talents spread among us all.” You take his wrist and make a show of putting him into a wrist lock, which he plays along with readily. “Itai itai itaiaiaiii!”

Pulling him close you whisper into his ear. “Pull a pair each from the street and the crowd, make them security for the actors; make sure they're used to deal with large groups of humans. When the play ends, pull a pair each from the exits and have them group with actors exit, and make sure they maintain a perimeter. Hime-chan is first priority, Fuuta-chan second. No killing if you can help it, but feel free to maim people if it becomes necessary.” You push him gently away and he bows several times and then falls back into step while Agato smirks at him.

“I'm going to be meeting Shinkai-sama and his wife upstairs. If you can figure out which booth and listen in or otherwise gather anything useful from it, please do. Also, anyone who can obscure my power will get kudos from me, and Chi-chan will be very happy with them, I'm sure.” They both look startled, and then bow in unison before separating and making their way into the theater away from you. “I hope they can manage something but no great loss if not.”

>>1887134
I just view all of it as comedy.

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>>1887141
“I think this is very unwise, aniki,” murmurs your priestess, who takes hold of your sleeve as you enter the lobby. You can hear the high, sweet voice of one of the kyogen players – a young man, maybe castrate, definitely smelling like freshly minted innocent, which you find hilarious – and the soft conversations and amusement of the audience. “She may be weak, but a sorceress is still dangerous, and she has most likely prepared many such charms, and perhaps talismans.”

“Honestly, they're both dangerous,” you tell her, ignoring her dubious look. “Men like him, patient, thoughtful, ruthless men, can do more damage to plans than any number of unforeseen obstacles. You can plan around them, but only if they can't see your plans. Besides, I have to give them a chance.”

“Idiot dragon, what makes you think they deserve it?”

[] What makes you think I deserved a chance?
[] My hands are not bloodless, Kiku-chan....
[] I gave Goto-san a chance – why not these two?
[] Your dislike of humans is showing again, bitsy dragon.
[] You seem to have issues with these people above and beyond the norm....

>>1887150
>[] My hands are not bloodless, Kiku-chan....
>[] You seem to have issues with these people above and beyond the norm....

>>1887144
Probably wise

>>1887150
>[] I gave Goto-san a chance – why not these two?
>[] Your dislike of humans is showing again, bitsy dragon.

>>1887150
>[X] What makes you think I deserved a chance?
>[X] Your dislike of humans is showing again, bitsy dragon.
>[X] You seem to have issues with these people above and beyond the norm....

>>1887150
>[] I gave Goto-san a chance – why not these two?
>[] Your dislike of humans is showing again, bitsy dragon.
>[]I... really don't want to get into what people do or don't deserve.
Greater Good or not, doesn't change the effect our actions will some day (getting closer all the time) have on an individual level. Though that might not be something Ryukusa wats to lay on Kiku right now.

>>1887150
>[] I gave Goto-san a chance – why not these two?
>[] Your dislike of humans is showing again, bitsy dragon.
>[] You seem to have issues with these people above and beyond the norm....

>>1887150
>[x] My hands are not bloodless, Kiku-chan....
>[X] Your dislike of humans is showing again, bitsy dragon.
>[X] You seem to have issues with these people above and beyond the norm....

>>1887150
[] What makes you think I deserved a chance?
[] I gave Goto-san a chance – why not these two?
[] You seem to have issues with these people above and beyond the norm....

>>1887150
>[] What makes you think I deserved a chance?

>"You know me, my darling. I give people a chance, when I can. Several, in some cases. If I didn't, I'd have killed many of those who later became my allies, like the young Fire Dragonette you helped a few hours ago. And if I didn't give people a chance, would I be me? Would I be someone you'd want to be the priestess and the child's mother of?" Hug the Kiku.

>[] You seem to have issues with these people above and beyond the norm....

>>1887168

What "greater good"?

>>1887150
>[x] Your dislike of humans is showing again, bitsy dragon.
>[x] You seem to have issues with these people above and beyond the norm....
Risks are unfortunate, but inescapable. Else Ryukusa wouldn't be Ryukusa, after all!
I do hope we can dissuade at least one of them properly.

>>1887196
The spiritual health of Japan which we will most likely help heal via causing great destruction?

>>1887192

Affirmation of self is good, and Kiku needs hugs

>>1887200

Oh, that's not the greater good, it's just good for a greater being.

Not the same.

Ryukusa's not the kind to think there is a "greater good" to justify something.

>>1887150
>[] I gave Goto-san a chance – why not these two?

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[x] My hands are not bloodless, Kiku-chan....
[X] What makes you think I deserved a chance?
[XX] I gave Goto-san a chance – why not these two?
[xxx] Your dislike of humans is showing again, bitsy dragon.
[XXX] You seem to have issues with these people above and beyond the norm....
[+] ….not really my place to discuss 'deserved'....
[+] Hey, who do you think I am lady?

You take a moment and seriously consider her comment, thinking back on her interactions with people – not just spirit-children but humans, over the course of time you've known her, and the things you've heard from others.

(Akari-niji-chan, I have made some slight changes in the arrangement of Chisato's people here. Forgive me for interrupting.)

(There is nothing for forgive, and I was made aware of the changes when they started to occur, aniki.) She sounds calm and happy, which is nice, and you're actually pretty pleased they contacted her as well. (I made their status here very clear, as well as yours.) Oh, well then; that isn't as much of a surprise now.

(Then carry on, my love. ….huh. I wonder if the fact that there are seven actors on stage makes a difference.)

(Aniki!) You grin as her amused outrage at the suggestion that her and Kiki's pregnancies count as actors is immediately noticed by your clever companion in arms.

“Kinda depends on what you mean by 'deserves', Kiku-chan, because last I checked I'm not really on that list either. If anything, I should never have been given any of these opportunities and should have just been wiped from the world when Oba-san possessed me at the opportune moment, probably after sacrificing some other undeserving soul to manage it.” She starts to protest but you continue over them. “I'm not going to get into the semantics of who deserves what – because to me, it really is a semantic concept rather than an ethical one – but even Kurao Goto got his chances.”

That makes her frown and look at you angrily. “I'm the way I am now because of things I chose to be. I'm not going to deny the humans I deal with any lack of chances either. These two are little different from the two we met in the shop, and there are hundreds, thousands more like them.” You sigh softly, and show your wristband, and Kiku-chan follows suit, which gets the concierge to let you back into the theater. “I have managed to make allies because of my forgiving nature, and yes, it's cost me several times, but I think the few times it did work it was worthwhile. Kei-san, the Fire dragonette from Akari's old clan, heck, even Inau-kun, whom I was suspicious of at first have becoming important people.”
She growls and you sweep her into your arms, picking her up. She doesn't protest, and instead lays her head on your shoulder, careful not to injure you with her long, delicate horns. “I am who and what I am, and I'm not going to change over a pair of ambitious people, human or not.”

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>>1887316
“They have no respect for you, Ryukusa. It pains me that they treat you like so much property or a tool to further their own ambitions.” Her voice is quiet and earnest, and you feel you may have misinterpreted something.

You start to ask her what she means, and then close your mouth. Kiku-chan lifts her head and looks at you with confusion. “Literally or figuratively pains you?” She gets what must be the same expression that surely crossed over your face not even seconds before, and thinks rather hard on the matter. Once she put it into her perspective, you can see why she finds the situation annoying, even maddening: she's your priestess, and they're treating you like a person rather than a god, even a little god. Of course it would piss her off.

“Figuratively, I think. It doesn't hurt me to see them treat you like that, but it is offensive. Other spirit children at least treat you with the respect due a dragonette, you know.” It would make sense that their deference, however mild, for your nature as a Water dragonette would at least mollify her nature as a priestess. “But humans treat you....”

You smile and stroke her hair as you slide down the aisle. “Like a human.” She nods, and and lays her head back on your shoulder. You give her a squeeze and then gently set her down before Inau-kun who pulls her legs back to let her slide into her own seat. Kiku-chan looks mollified by your understanding, and also by the fact that you don't see a reason to press further. She's aware enough that she doesn't need further admonishment, but the hugs undoubtedly helped.

“Was it anything critical, Inau-kun?”

“No, a little satire on the efforts of a ghost to try and get a head in the afterlife where nothing works right,” she replies. You smile, the idea appealing in its truthfulness.

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>>1887326
The slow thunder of the taiko drums gives rise to a slowly swirling Yui, while Shoko's sweet voice narrates the scene and places the words in her mouth when they should be. Demon number two is the 'living' Kurao Goto, and Yui, in the white robes and silvery shimmering foils of a retainer of the God of Rainfall slides her way towards the middle of the floor. He is perfect in his duties, keeping the gates of his lord's castle. How dare the half-breed by blow of a travesty of humor deign to exist in his perfect Heaven! But what's this? Someone has taken her prisoner? No, not prisoner! The little bastard has been granted sanctuary, and been given a place in the world rather than a place in heaven! UNTHINKABLE! the drums thunder, and the zither crashes.

He ignores the ts-king figure of Fuuta upon the rooftop – playing the role of Kuroukami, and inciting laughter and soft murmurs as she shakes her head, lamenting her servants foolishness!

Kurao Goto goes forth, seeking vengeance upon those who would dare bind the servants of a Great Kami, even if they are useless, worthless, pointless trash. They are trash that belongs in Heaven, not with the worthless dregs of the world! But what is this? A warrior speaks up for the worthless trash?! How dare they! HOW DARE THEY! For this, they will die, accursed and doomed, brought low by the cunning of the servants of a god! But....no! How can this be! Death? How can the perfect servant of a perfect god die?! How can one lowly mortal being slay an immortal servant of a god?! But what is this? No – not this! Anything but....!

Your heart is beating quickly as you break free of the trance Yui's performance put you in; it was almost like being there again, facing that monstrous oni and his friend. The metallic taste in your mouth is familiar only because you have tasted it before. The rest of the audience shares your trepidation, but the fear is yours along.

Inau-kun takes your hand without looking; you grip it tightly. You know it hurts her a little, but she says nothing, does nothing. Just....holds your hand.

And it's enough.

>To Be Continued....

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Thank you for reading and playing, and your patience these past weeks.

I am healing nicely, and should be entirely healed in another few weeks - the smoke hampered things a bit, but it's cleared out nicely. My friend is doing as well as can be expected, and will be staying with her mother for a while to help her through it.

All in all, things are going well - at least, better than they did for Kurao Goto!

I'll stay a short while if there are any questions.

...bloody autocorrect turned my "alone" into "along."

>>1887336
Thanks for running XS

>>1887336
Thanks XS, that was a great thread.

>>1887336
Thanks for writing! Great fun as usual.

>>1887340
I try not to mention them, because I understand what you mean to write and that's enough.

Let me know if you'd like Twitter PM's or something of that nature to correct your write-up of the quest after each episode is done.

I a, g;ad you are enjoying. 3 years!

>>1887394
I often go back over the entire thing, rereading what has come before and catching my mistakes and correcting them as I go. I'll be re-posting it to the mega upload in full again at the end of the month.

>>1887336
Thank you for running, XS. May I ask what Ryukusa might think would be enough for either to be swayed from their current habits and actions?

>>1887336
Thanks for running, I had fun and it's nice to hear that things are at least a little better

>>1887414
At this point, she sincerely believes that if Yamada can get out from under his wife's thumbs and be reminded what the Yakuza was meant to do, he might have a good shot both redemption and not getting embarrassed at the meeting with the oyabun.

Mikurabe is harder, as she is desperately needy, and not very happy in her current situation. Ryukusa suspects she knows things, really important things, are happening in her clan, but on the 'mainland' she's not only out of the look, but doesn't have any access to the power she's used to having because the power she can currently collect is only extant in small, out of the way pockets or already under the control or in use by powerful spirits (Rie, Hinata-hakase, and Rie's little friend have a significant portion of that power under wraps). Unless she's willing to align her ambitions with her husbands, or makes a complete break from her clan in favor of the new order, she's going to be very disappointed.

>>1887331
So we're about to see someone portray Ryukusa herself?

>>1887525
As a matter off act, that will be the last part.

In many Noh plays, time is not necessarily linear. It this particular one, the flow seems inverted, rather than forward - at least, that is the impression you should be getting.