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Twitter: @XsQuestmistress

AskFM: https://ask.fm/XSQuestmistress - For any and all quest or story related questions.

Previous Thread: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2275477/

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

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

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

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

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

>Ryukusa's Treasures

Her name: Ryuu Yorihokura

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shikoku Naya, her fashion teacher and seamstress.

Hisaka Subaru, her weaver and dressmaking teacher.

Ryukusa's Family.

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

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

>>2292995
>[x] Ask Peta-chan if she'll witness this act as daimyo of her own clan.
Time for Ryukusa!
Respect seems best.

>>2292995
>[] Salute the nogitsune-born empress, and Rie too.
>[] Ask Peta-chan if she'll witness this act as daimyo of her own clan.

>>2292995
>[] Salute the nogitsune-born empress, and Rie too.
>[] Ask Peta-chan if she'll witness this act as daimyo of her own clan.
>[] Ask Kiku-chan though the Void if it is appropriate to ask your family's guardian spirit to be a member of a Yakuza clan.

>>2292995
>[] Ask Peta-chan if she'll witness this act as daimyo of her own clan.
>[] Ask Kiku-chan though the Void if it is appropriate to ask your family's guardian spirit to be a member of a Yakuza clan.
I'm guessing no, but I think asking is unlikely to hurt.

>>2292995

>Explain the meaning of the ritual to those who don't know, the history behind it, and the reasons why you are doing it now.

>Politely and warmly ask Rie and Petta, before even making the smallest move to pour them a glass, if they wish to participate. You would be happy and honored to be part of their family, and have them part of yours, but you're not going to impose an implied position of subordination on them unless they want to, freely.

We should *not* assume anything about them. Maybe they will want to, maybe not, and we'll respect their choice.

>>2293012
>>2293033
>>2293064

I really think we should ask them if they want to drink with us, or keep more independance. Marking the separation between Peta's and our clans, no matter how politely done, should not be done without her input.

>>2293070

And we can ask Peta to bear witness as a daimyo if she doesn't want to participate.

Question: if Peta does indeed drink with us, and her and Chisato's relationship is official, does it make her a member of our family even though she belongs to a different organization at least on paper?

>>2293075

I meant: does it make Chisato a member of our family?

if yes we might have a cute marriage for them

>>2293070
I don't mind asking. Peta-chan is still Peta-chan even if she has her own clan though so it's not a big deal I'd say. Unless she really wants to be family I suppose.

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[XX] Ask Peta-chan if she'll witness this act as daimyo of her own clan.
[X] Salute the nogitsune-born empress, and Rie too.
[+] Of course, if they wish to participate they may....

You glance at your young and untested warriors, and those your clan has adopted, and smile faintly. “as you can tell by Chisato-chan's less than subtle reaction and Rishi-chan's shock, it's a very serious thing to drink with the oyabun of a Yakuza clan.” You set the bottle aside and place the cork back in. “It is, in essence, becoming their nephew. You aren't just a member of the clan, but a descendant of the leader of the clan, one of his children. That means if someone hurts you or causes you trouble, the leader of the clan is obligated to take steps to make sure the people who have made this terrible mistake never do so again.”

“That's why you couldn't do anything to Shinkai Yamada himself, right?” asks Shoko in her sweet and girlish voice. Rishi-chan is still to shocked at your intention to be distracted even by that.

“Exactly so. If I had, Shinkai Kakunemo would be obligated to teach me a very firm, possible – probably – fatal lesson for laying a hand on his nephew, regardless of his status in the clan itself. He's not that high up, actually, a middle manager at best. But having had sake with the oyabun of Shinkai clan, he is now a beloved nephew and must be treated with the respect that the oyabun has given him.” You pick up one of the glasses and swirl the amber liquid within. “This also places responsibility on your shoulders, though. You represent Clan Ryuu in much more than just name. You are my family, and what you do, how you do it reflects on me too. It won't stop me from taking any steps necessary to make sure those who hurt or trouble you are taken care of, but your actions and deeds are mine. So this is trust, and honor, and face, between us. I believe in you all, and I place my faith in you.”

The others look at the glass, and Shoko suddenly looks startled. “Wait, me too?”

[] What on earth do you mean, you too?!
[] Of course. You've bled and fought for Hime-chan. How could I not?
[] Is there a reason you'd refuse?
[] It isn't like Horobi wouldn't do the same. We're just formalizing it, right?
[] Do you need beans thrown at you to make you realize that you're a part of this family already?

>Reminder that previous votes are in effect and current one will be finished in full after sidetracks.

>>2293082
It would.

>>2293083
Depends on if Peta offers Ryukusa sake. It would technically be a marriage of clans at that point, cementing their ties in a more formal manner.

>>2293088
>[x] Do you need beans thrown at you to make you realize that you're a part of this family already?
Shoko please

>>2293088

>"Yes. Shoko, you have been a steadfast ally and a wonderful friend since the day we've met. How could I exclude you from this?"

>[] Is there a reason you'd refuse?

I'm not sure if flirting and teasing is appropriate in the circumstances, but if won't disturb the ritual:

>"Of course, you might become part of my family in a few other ways~. Isn't it right, Inau-kun?"

Loving Shoko with Inau and loving Inau with Shoko would be great, if they wish so. But we'll support them either way.

>>2293088
>>2293106
Sure I'll support

If we make Shoko part of our family, do we have to chain/collar her like we did with Yui?

She might be worried about that.

>>2293144
I'd suggest a choker instead but somehow I think she would prefer a proper collar if anything...

>>2293144
She wears cuffs under her jacket already.

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[X] Do you need beans thrown at you to make you realize that you're a part of this family already?
[X] Is there a reason you'd refuse?
[+] Srsly, plz.

You glance at Shoko and look at her in a bit of surprise. “Do you need to refuse? It's not like you haven't been at our side as a friend and an ally alike since you came to our home. You're duties to the God of Destruction don't really include fighting battles for us or dealing with evil sorcerers or fighting assassins, yet you've done all those things.” She opens her mouth to protest and then looks consternated, realize you're right. “I could throw beans at you to remind you you're a part of this family....they can't harm you or drive you off if you're at home, after all.”

“Please don't,” she says, blushing. “I mean....sure I've done those things....but....”

The others are a little embarrassed by her reactions, and Rishi is looking at her strangely. She suddenly hops onto a barstool (and you're very glad her wings are not present) and points her finger at Shoko. “AH! YOU'RE NOT [I]SWEARING[/I]!!!”

Shoko looks as startled as anyone and you take the glass of whiskey and one of her large, gnarled hands, the metal bands in her gloves keeping them somewhat human-like. “No, they stop doing that when they're in love. After all, her lover is a member of our clan, closer than family already.” Inau-kun touches the black coral ear cuff you gave her, blood rising to her cheeks. “When they get married, she'll be an even closer member of our family.” Now Inau-kun is pinching her nose and turning bright red. Hinata is looking at her with some concern, which eases your ire towards her....a little.

The Water-oni-chick, looks at the whiskey and hesitates. “And if you're thinking of the curse, do you honestly think your curse can nearly measure up to my karma?” You ask as you hand Fuuta-chan hers, and pick up the third, giving it to Rishi, who collapses into a cross-legged sit on the stool and looks at the whiskey with a surprisingly serious expression. “What?”

“I can't drink this with you, Ryukusa-sama. I mean, I'd really bring the wrath of my clan on you if I did, you know. Chisato's people are only human but....” She looks at you seriously and offers the glass back to you.

“That's precisely why I'm offering it to you. If you're part of my clan – like your cousin Akari,” you remind her, as Fuuta-chan and Shoko look at your dark schoolgirl warrior, “then you're mine to protect and nurture and teach. It's not like we don't have enough weird ass people already, you know. If they have issues with it, they can get in line.”

>>2293167

Do Oni or Oni-children get new ones if they serve someone else?

>>2293160

All of Ryukusa's beloved women would look great wearing collars. Same for Ryukusa herself.

Ryukusa's, Kiku's and Er Yin's date demonstrated that.

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Rishi-chan looks at Akari, who is steadfastly watching Hinata-hakase prepare the ritual. With Er Yin and Kiku watching over her, you are quite certain if Hinata tries to pull something underhanded, Akari will be given permission to smite that bitch into the stone age. She looks at the whiskey and you lean over and trace her shoulder though the denim of her new vest, where the bandages are visible. “People should never be allowed to do this, especially to their own family,” you murmur softly, and Kaga Kei looks away, her shame burning through her cheeks as she recalls where you met her, and who you rescued from the spells that made her an angel.

Rishi nods slowly. “You're right. I'd be honored.”

You look at Kaga Kei and Fuuta-chan. Fuuta-chan simply nods; there's really not much point in discussing it with someone who sees the future!

“Why me? I'm your enemy. I haven't done anything to warrant this honor. I'm not even sure it's a good idea.” Kaga Kei is still flushed from the thought of what was done to a member of her clan by one of its own leaders.

“If I didn't think humans were worth saving, I wouldn't be having this meeting with the Shinkai leaders, Kei-san. You're smart. You're willing to stay and learn. You're willing to help us.” She starts to protest, and you hold up your hand. “You spoke up first when I asked how to defeat Hinata-hakase, even though you know she's a much more powerful priestess and a spirit-child of great power. You put yourself in danger because you knew the right thing to do was to help protect the people who are here, rather than to let us muddle about on our own.” She looks troubled by that. “Your reasoning doesn't matter – it's what you did. So, here.”

The young sorceress looks troubled as you hand her the class of whiskey....but she takes it. You turn and look at Peta-chan and Reiha. “Would you like to witness this, as a bystander? Although....” You pick up the bottle and gesture to Peta with it. Her eyes widen a little and she pats a very concerned Reiha on the shoulder. Reiha sets her down, and Peta walks over, while Reiha follows, concerned. Almost everyone nearby looks confused. Peta looks up at Reiha and snaps her fingers softly.

Reiha looks deeply concerned, but she usually does. Then she pulls out a small clay jar, and two glasses. Peta gestures to the counter and it is Shoko who picks her up as Reiha pours the plum wine into the wide dishes. Rishi REALLY wants to say something but stays quiet. Your sister silently take another glass out of the cupboard and sets it aside for you, and you fill it silently as Peta pushes one dish towards you.

Rie merely shakes her – currently human, though largely unnoticed – head.

[] Accept the offer of clan-wide friendship officially
[] Ask her if she's sure.
[] Politely refuse, as best you can.
[] This is what you've been working for, in a lot of ways. Gladly accept.
[] Is she joining your clan or are you joining hers?

>>2293190
>[x] Is she joining your clan or are you joining hers?
Teasing if possible!
Things are going great so far.

>>2293190
>[] Accept the offer of clan-wide friendship officially

>>2293190
Also that image for Kei makes her look like powerful secretary material

sexual harassment optional

>>2293190
>[] This is what you've been working for, in a lot of ways. Gladly accept.

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>>2293212
Reiha is literally Peta's mouthpiece. Asking her opinion would be like asking a professional translator their opinion of the meeting - it could be exceedingly rude to Peta-chan and incredibly embarrassing to Reiha. That said, it's still an option, and Ryukusa has certainly done weirder things.

>>2293190
>Rie merely shakes her – currently human, though largely unnoticed – head.
Wait is that her acting as our guardian spirit advising us that taking Peta's drink is a bad idea, or is Rie just indicating not to make her a similar offer?

>>2293251
The latter, I think.

>>2293190
>[] This is what you've been working for, in a lot of ways. Gladly accept.
And we can investigate what Reiha's problem is later if we want, but right now I don't think it's appropriate.

>>2293250
I'm not in favor of rudeness I think, even if the embarassment would be fun.

>>2293251
I assumed the latter from the context of the rest of the updates and discussion, though ignoring that context makes it kinda look like the former.

>>2293250

Consider it dropped, then. I just wanted to know the opinion of one of the other people this will concern.

Though I suppose she already gave any input she considers herself allowed to.

>>2293190

>If she's sure about this, gladly accept.

>>2293260
Yeah that's what I'm concerned about, since even though we said to in the prompt, we didn't get around to doing it, and timing wise it seems like it's response to Peta's offer.
Though if this alliance will come with downsides, I don't think they'll be insurmountable. I'd still like Rie to clarify but don't know a polite way to ask.

>>2293251
>>2293260
>>2293254
The latter.

>>2293276
Clearly she's just a jealous cat miffed that Ryukusa's paying attention to other fluffy ears!

>>2293279
Thanks for clarifying.

>>2293279
Thank you

>>2293276
>>2293260
>>2293251
>>2293254
Your guardian spirit will make her actual opinion known if she thinks something is actually dangerous to your family - like showing up uninvited when Hinata has brought a dangerous spirit into your home.

Remember, they're not family until they drink the whiskey, so Rie won't show herself to them until they are - if she is so inclined.

>>2293190

+The moment is too serious to cheapen with teasing right now but god damn is Peta-chan cute when she's acting all official and bossy. Take a moment to lighten the mood a bit before we pivot to dealing with Hinata's bullsh- I mean, Hinata's ritual

Just want to say XS, I've been reading this quest since the first thread and not only is it by far one of my favorite quests ever, but your writing has been stellar ever since. You've done an amazing job with pacing, style, and character development at every turn. I mean even your smut is detailed yet tasteful, who the fuck can do that shit nowadays? I enjoy every live, and with your irl struggles (what little you've told us about) it is honestly inspiring that you'd dedicate yourself to such a volatile (often toxic) medium. And I wont even get started on how great the community you've built is, especially considering the deplorables I spend most of my time with. Thank you for all the days of entertainment, and for pushing me to write myself. It has been a pleasure to play along with you. Be well.

>>2293190
>[X] This is what you've been working for, in a lot of ways. Gladly accept.

>>2293293
It's definitely impressive how long she's managed to keep running her quests without serious burnout or running into some kind of bullshit drama, like seemingly every other QM. And it's very enjoyable questing indeed.

>>2293293
I am glad you're enjoying it.

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[XXX] This is what you've been working for, in a lot of ways. Gladly accept.
[X] Ask her if she's joining your clan or you're joining hers.
[X] Accept the offer of clan-wide friendship officially
[+] Mood lightening powers: ACTIVATE!

You look at Peta-chan seriously as she sits on the counter-top, looking for all the world like a little girl who should be out playing or in her room coloring. Certainly not like the not-quite-evil mastermind that broke Chisato out of jail, controls an entire clan of inherently freedom-loving and potentially evil spirited yako-children with an iron hand, and could easily rival Clan Ryo for power and territory if she so desired (but not, however resources or political pull, which is undoubtedly why she hasn't). While typically you try and get other people's opinions, you know that Reiha is just Peta chan's public 'face' and the person she gets her work accomplished through.

Being little is pretty tough.

Still, she's adorable when she's acting....well, really, being imperious, and Chisato would have hearts in her eyes if she was in any kind of anime ever. You pick up the glass of whiskey for yourself and then eye Peta-chan, who looks up at you with her cutely nonplussed expression. “So, am I joining your clan, or are you joining mine? Because I'm pretty sure if we're marrying clans, The one who is joining is wearing the pants, and you're too cute for being a reverse trap.”

Rishi can't even help the snicker that escapes, despite covering her mouth, while Shoko rolls her eyes. Chisato gasps, while Fuuta-chan just smiles adoringly at you (which is a little odd).

“Ryu-chan....” Kiki-hime's voice drifts from across the room in mock warning, which gets a bunch of titters, giggles, and snickers.

“Ah, gomen, gomen!” you call apologetically, bowing over your free hand several times. Rishi giggles and you can feel Akari trying to hide her smile, despite her anger at Hinata.

Yui cranes her neck backwards and looks at you as though her neck is broken. “Hey, aniki she's getting done of here.”

You blank your expression and murmur softly, “Not yet she isn't,” and Shoko nearly spills her drink while Chisato gapes at you, while Kaga Kei and Fuuta-chan stare. Rishi is laughing now, and has to put her drink down, as puffs of flame erupt from, her nose and mouth. “Hey, not setting my whiskey on fire!” you admonish her. Peta favors you with a smile and offers her pinky.

You serious up, and then link your pinky with hers. “Deal.” Mutual support, and equal standing on either side that makes you both answerable to one another, while giving you free reign in your own situations. An actual and true alliance, made from friendship and shared hardships. “Best present ever. Now....to you all....kompai.”

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>>2293375
“Kompai!” They raise their glasses and everyone drinks. The range of expressions varies from the stoic to the curious to the disgusted, but everyone drinks. You and Peta pick up your dishes and slurp the sweet plum wine from them, upending the dishes and bowing over them. Chisato watches, and looks at you with bright, warm eyes, her gratitude immense, and not just about Peta. You've given her a place outside her clan to come to if things go bad, and your protection means a lot....especially since you and Peta combined could take on a human Yakuza group easily.

Rie smiles and gives you a wink. You solemnly bow your head to her, getting weird looks from the others. Chisato has no idea how well protected she is now.

“Why does this stuff taste like someone set fire to moss and held it over the burning moss?” Rishi asks curiously.

“....because they did?” you reply mildly.

“Oh. Well, that explains it then,” the Fire dragonette replies mildly, curiosity satisfied.

“Welcome to Clan Ryo and our family. Please take care of me.” you bow and they bow back, Kei, Fuuta and Rishi sliding off their stools. Your sister watches, mystified yet not unhappy about the goings on. You smile to her, and excuse yourself, while the others start asking Rishi and Chisato questions, not having been part of a clan before. You do stop and turn around with a wicked smile. “By the way, you'll all need to see Kiku-chan or Akari about your tattoos. Yes, that means you too, Yui-niji-chan.” The shock, surprise and squeaks of dismay are terribly entertaining.

Walking over to Er Yin-sensei and Kiku-chan, you look them over carefully. Water Eyes would be useless on them right now; with Hinata in the room, they'd be fools to let their guard down so much. Er yin is sitting with Kiku-chan in her lap, arms wrapped about the smaller dragonette's shoulders and crossed at her waist. Kiku-jinshu-chan looks moderately angry, which means she's still upset about before. Still, that's not really something you blame the two of them for.

[] Arms about Er Yin, tail about Kiku, and snuggle a bit.
[] Point out you're not exactly someone who can judge for them doing their duty – you've done worse, after all.
[] Tell them the tale of three Clan Ryo students who made a fatal error in judgment.
[] Settle next to them and see if they want to talk at all.
[] Start with something less touchy, like asking what Hinata is doing.

>>2293382
>[x] Settle next to them and see if they want to talk at all.
>[x] Tell them the tale of three Clan Ryo students who made a fatal error in judgment.
Tales are good. Just like tails.

>>2293382
>[] Settle next to them and see if they want to talk at all

>>2293382
>[] Tell them the tale of three Clan Ryo students who made a fatal error in judgment.
>[] Settle next to them and see if they want to talk at all.

>>2293382
>[] Arms about Er Yin, tail about Kiku, and snuggle a bit.
>[] Settle next to them and see if they want to talk at all.
>[] Tell them the tale of three Clan Ryo students who made a fatal error in judgment.

QM, if we tell the story of what happened, would Hinata be able to hear it.

Ryukusa might not want that knowledge to spread out.

>>2293382
>[x] Settle next to them and see if they want to talk at all.
>[X] Tell them the tale of three Clan Ryo students who made a fatal error in judgment.

>>2293390
>>2293399
>>2293415

>no cuddles

truly this is the darkest timeline

>>2293416
Hinata is currently doing something that takes all her concentration. If she does anything else, she could fuck it up, and with no less than 4 spiritualists nearby, fucking it up would be noticed, condemned, and might get her killed.

That said, Ryukusa can easily make sure only ErYin and Kiku hear it with her control of wind.

>>2293382
>[] Arms about Er Yin, tail about Kiku, and snuggle a bit.
>[] Tell them the tale of three Clan Ryo students who made a fatal error in judgment.

>>2293443

Not sure if she wants the others to hear it or not.

>>2293463
QM will err on the side of caution.

>>2293473

Thanks. I was just wondering what the other players thought.

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>>2293507
Sensible choices, I now want cuddles too.

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>>2293507
>>2293524
You all get cuddles

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>>2293530
I will only cuddle if it promises not to eat me.

>>2293534
That is my god of Adventure in one of my settings. He tells epic stories about every adventurer there ever been. People generally dislike him cause he gives people irresponsible Wander and Adventure lust making them drop their normal lives for it instead...

He is a very nice guy though, he just loves stories

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[XX] Settle next to them and see if they want to talk at all.
[XX] Tell them the tale of three Clan Ryo students who made a fatal error in judgment.
[X] Arms about Er Yin, tail about Kiku, and snuggle a bit.

You silently step up next to Er Yin and sit seiza next to her, your tail sliding along her bottom and over her own tail to slip around her waist, and then into Kiku-chan's lap. A delicate hand slowly strokes the soft vanes of your tail, almost hesitantly, and then with more confidence as you keep your tail still. It makes Kiku-chan's distress more acute, but Er Yin is stoically bearing it, ignoring or keeping her pain to herself as she comforts her much more emotional lover.

“Everything goes well here, aniki,” Er Yin murmurs with a slight smile after a moment. “Congratulations on our new alliance and your new family members.”

“I think that Rishi will learn well. She is very much a Fire dragonette. I look forward to teaching her.” Kiku-chan's voice is subdued and soft, and you can hear the note of regret within it. “It cannot make up for....” Her words trail off and you smile faintly, shaking your head.

With your voice toned and the wind carrying your words only to your priestess and her lover, you speak softly, keeping a rein on your own emotions. It's harder than you expected; the difficulty with trying to not control your feelings, you suppose.

“Kiku-jinshu-chan knows about this practice, but I doubt you've hard of it, Er Yin-sensei.” The dragonette's ear twitches and her tail slides along yours, wrapping Kiku-chan up even further in cooling dragonette flesh. “One of the things we must practice is an assassination attempt. Not an actual one, but planning and presenting said plan. It is usually conducted when we are between elven and fourteen, depending on various circumstances.” Er Yin inclines her head, and Kiku watching Hinata work. Er Yin isn't using her eyes to do so, but it undoubtedly also doing so.

“Mine was concerned with my cousin, who was a bit of an ass even back then,” you continue, gaining a half-amused snort fro Kiku-chan. She extends her hand under Er Yin's gentle hug, and you take it without looking. “Most were done by groups. Very few Water dragonnes and dragonettes do that. To high an opinion of ourselves, you know.” Er Yin can't help but smile; Kiku-chan doesn't, because she knows it's not a joke. “There was a trio, one of them unusual groups. Less....stable than some. They were curious to see if their plan could work. I suppose there are always such people.” Kiku-chan's head turns, she's looking at you very seriously. “Anyways, these three....they came up with a plan that seemed like it could work. Stone dragonettes are difficult to kill, you know, but these were exceptional students, with unusual skills, and of greater than average intellect.”

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Er Yin is frowning slightly, wondering what you are telling her this for. Kiku-chan is staring at you though, her eyes wide and bright. “It was a brilliant plan, spearheaded by a ten year old nezumi-child, and backed with an oni-child and a dragonette. If they hadn't tried to follow through with it, they would probably still be alive. Their bodies can't be found, of course. It's been a long time.” Kiku-chan raises her other sleeve and covers her mouth...and then suddenly turns her attention to Akari with eyes wide and her mouth a shocked moue, who is largely ignorant of the conversation.

…..SHIT.

Akari can feel vibrations through the floor. You may as well be speaking to her face to face.

In your defense you only recently learned about that ability, and you are really, really distracted between pain, using your power to keep parts of your body from falling off or out, and watching Hinata prepare some kind of ritual area with talismans, incense, chants, prayers, and meditations. Looking at Akari isn't going to tell you anything, so you continue on, accepting that she would learn it sooner or later.

“So, you see, I'm not in any kind of position to judge someone else for doing their duty, self imposed or not. Hinata-hakase I can blame for her selfish and unseemly actions, but there is no way I could, or would, ever blame you two for doing what was needed for the reasons you had.” You smile faintly and look up at Er Yin. “I'm going to be doing a lot worse than what you two did, regardless of whose request it is, you know. So....you shouldn't worry about what anyone here thinks of you.” You glance back. “Even Kaga Kei has regrets of that sort.”

Er Yin extends her hand and you turn, taking it in your other hand, as Kiku turns her attention to you once more. “Your compassion and kindness are exceeded only by your protectiveness, Ryukusa-sama. I am....we are cherished, and loved, and protected in your embrace.” Her soft word in her lilting voice make you feel all warm and melty inside and you feel the faint blush on your cheeks. You don't quash it, mostly because you kind of need your power on the rather extensive wounds still.

“I have....heard of similar things happening. I did not know then what it was, but I can see it for what it is now. It was more prevalent in my time, aniki,” Kiku's soft, childish voice murmurs. “I will say prayers for you and them.”

Inclining your head you kiss each warm hand softly, and not quickly either. “You may if you wish. I have made offerings twice every year for them. I won't sop any time soon.” Er Yin slips her hand from your and gently brushes your cheek with the back of those terrifying talons.

[] Take your leave, Rie time.
[] Hugs, hugs definitely.
[] Kisses must suffice, scandalous as they might be.
[] Excuse yourself and go talk to Akari; you really didn't mean for her to know that.
[] Sit for a moment more and let yourself calm.

>>2293550
>[x] Hugs, hugs definitely.
>[x] Excuse yourself and go talk to Akari; you really didn't mean for her to know that.

>>2293550
>[] Hugs, hugs definitely.
>[] Sit for a moment more and let yourself calm.
>[] Excuse yourself and go talk to Akari; you really didn't mean for her to know that.
I hate to leave Rie hanging, but I don't think we're doing so in a way that causes much offense

>>2293550
>[] Kisses must suffice, scandalous as they might be.
>[] Excuse yourself and go talk to Akari. You might have told her sooner or later, now that you're trying to be more open, but you didn't want her to find out like that.

Man, for Ryukusa to call it brilliant, it must have been an amazingly well-put together plan.

>>2293550
>[] Kisses must suffice, scandalous as they might be.
>[] Excuse yourself and go talk to Akari; you really didn't mean for her to know that.
Noooooo bad feelings

>>2293550
>[] Excuse yourself and go talk to Akari; you really didn't mean for her to know that.

>>2293550
>[] Kisses must suffice, scandalous as they might be.
>[] Excuse yourself and go talk to Akari; you really didn't mean for her to know that.

>>2293550
>[x] Hugs, hugs definitely.
>[x] Excuse yourself and go talk to Akari; you really didn't mean for her to know that.

I don't want Akari to feel down!

>>2293550
>[] Take your leave, Rie time.
>[] Hugs, hugs definitely.
All times are cat time.

>>2293550
>[X]Akari time! Somehow... Shit!

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[X] Kisses must suffice, scandalous as they might be.
[XX] Hugs, hugs definitely.
[XXX] Excuse yourself and go talk to Akari; you really didn't mean for her to know that.

You lean into the caress and sit up, wrapping your arms about the lovers who have shared your dangers and triumphs, your bed and each other with you. Kiku-chan nuzzles your cheek and you steal a soft, rather hot kiss from her. Your lips steam with you pull away, and you deliver the remnant of the burning kiss to Er Yin's lips, the three of you a warm, safe bubble of love and strength and understanding. The other quality you share with these to is age; you are the youngest, but you are still well over two centuries old.

You just happened to be in a nightmarish dimension for most of that.

Kiku-chan's hand traces the ideogram for 'heart' on your belly as you nuzzle her softly, and warm breath wafts across your ear as Er yin whisper her love to you as well. You would love to remain here for a moment more, but you're starting to ache, more from the awkward position and gentle squeeze than from exhaustion. Jinyuu-onee-sama's medicinals are stronger than that, and you're doing okay as far as energy goes. These moments help that as well.

Reluctantly you rise and they turn their attention upon Hinata once more, studying what she's done so far, though the others have been observing as well. They lack Kiku-jinshu-chan's insight and Er Yin-sensei's unique skills, but you feel confident that all will be well. Mostly because if they aren't, Hinata's going to be in a world of hurt.

You walk over to where Kiki-hime and the 'twins' are, though they're looking more and more different by the week. You run your hand through Yui-niji-chan's soft hair and bend over to kiss Kiki-hime lovingly, completely disregarding propriety and enjoying the bloom of pink across her pale cheeks. Cherries, sweet and lush, and the unique taste of Kiki-hime. You hum softly and she purrs at you, not seeming to notice the surprised looks that earns her (including a glance from Hinata-hakase, who is as surprised as some of the others). Akari-niji-chan watches with warm affection, and Yui-niji-chan squirms happily.

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>>2293695
“Yuuhi-chan, would you take Akari-niji-chan's place? I need to borrow her for a moment.” Yuuhi looks dubiously at you. “I promise I'm not leaving. Just to the bedroom, and not nearly long enough.” Kiki-hime giggles and Yuuhi looks mollified, while Yui murmurs a disappointed “Awwww.”

“Perverts, the lot of you,” you accuse mildly, as Akari rises to her feet in a smooth motion. You run a fingertip along Yui's horn and Kiki-hime takes up head petting duties for both Yui and Yuuhi, who slowly lean towards one another until they are shoulder to shoulder in front of the couch as she strokes their hair and horns or ears, as appropriate. Or inappropriate, really.

Akari walks with you into the huge bedroom, and you silently close the door behind you. The Stone dragonette tucks both hands behind her back, and smiles faintly at you, her carnelian eyes warm and trusting. She's not....well, she isn't threatening, or upset, which is a little worrisome. You're not reading her body language, per se, but simply trusting your understanding of Akari to judge her attitude and feelings.

[] Ask her what she's thinking.
[] Apologize for not telling her before.
[] Admit you're not quite sure how she feels about this situation.
[] Acquire her hand and kiss it softly, before explaining.
[] A deep breath might be good for starters.

>>2293698
>[] Acquire her hand and kiss it softly, before explaining.
>[] Apologize for not telling her before.
>[] Admit you're not quite sure how she feels about this situation.

>>2293698
>[x] Acquire her hand and kiss it softly, before explaining.
>[x] Apologize for not telling her before.
>[x] Ask her what she's thinking.
Sorry! Love love!

>>2293698
>[] A deep breath might be good for starters.
>[] Admit you're not quite sure how she feels about this situation.

>>2293709
It's sounding like Ryukusa is starting to get worked up a bit, which is not great since she's still holding herself together with magic.

>>2293698
>deep breath. Ask her what she is thinking

>>2293698
>[] Ask her what she's thinking.
>[] Apologize for not telling her before.

>>2293698
>[] A deep breath might be good for starters.
>[] Acquire her hand and kiss it softly, before explaining.

>Apologize for not telling her. Ask her what she thinks of all that.

>>2293698
>[x] Acquire her hand and kiss it softly, before explaining.
>[x] Apologize for not telling her before.
>[x] Admit you're not quite sure how she feels about this situation.

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[0] A deep breath might be good for starters.
[1] Acquire her hand and kiss it softly, before explaining.
[2] Apologize for not telling her before.
[3] Admit you're not quite sure how she feels about this situation.
[4][+] Ask her what she's thinking, afterwards.

The best and most important thing is to calm yourself, which you try to do by taking a slow, deep breath. Once you have done that and noticed how miserably it has failed to actually calm you down, you reach for and are allowed to take her surprisingly delicate hand, barely calloused despite all of the training you do. You bring it up and kiss it, ring, then the two fingers next to it, then the delicate back of her hand. Akari smiles at you, lowering her head slightly, and half closing her eyes.

Another deep breath does help you calm down a little, and you lift your head to explain. Before you do more than part yur lips, a gentle, soft, cool fingertip is pressed to your lips. You look into those soft carnelian eyes, the rich red-brown of them glittering with love and amusement. Confused, you look at her, those half lidded eyes gazing up at you from her slightly lowered face. You shake your head and try again, but she places her fingers against your lips, stopping you from speaking. Even more confused, you stare at her.

All she does is tilt her head ever so slightly, her smile widening just a touch.

Understanding blooms and you feel like an idiot. “You knew. You knew the whole time.”

Akari lowers the hand at your mouth, but keeps a light grasp of your other hand and steps closer, her head still lowered as she leans into you, her tight, compact body cool and supple along yours. “I followed you. I felt you get up and waited until you were far enough away that you wouldn't feel my presence.” Her Stone nature would make her even more a part of the environment than you would be able to sense, of course, especially half trained and not entirely in your full power as you were. “I saw what you did, and it wasn't difficult to figure out why, of course.” Her smile is coy, though her eyes shine with affection and love.

“Please allow me to apologize for not telling you before. It is something that I didn't want to burden you with.” She takes your other hand and sighs softly into your bosom. “It's something that I chose to do on my own, and without being told.”

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>>2293867
“No different than what they had planned, really, except yours was to protect me,” she says and you have to admit you're a bit taken aback by her point of view. Technically, you did assassinate them in the same way they had intended to do to Akari, and it was effectively the same project. You just happened to preemptively strike before they could get close enough to be a threat to Akari. “It makes you shinobi, instead of ninja or Yakuza, really. My protector. My defender. My beloved friend.” You have to control the tears that spring up. If you didn't you'd be letting go of your power too much to be safe. “It proved beyond any doubt that you were never the destroyer or murderer they wished you to become. You could be, if you needed to be....but you thought only about protecting me, not killing them. Just like Umetsume-san.”

With a sigh you rest your head against hers, careful of the sharp jade horns. “Don't I have any secrets safe from you?” you ask quietly, without a trace of exasperation or annoyance. More like happy resignation, really.

“Probably,” she admits softly, before she lifts her head to look you in the eyes. “Thank you for rescuing Rishi-chan. She's very warm hearted and bright. She isn't really cut out to be an assassin.”

“It is my pleasure to serve you, Akari-niji-chan,” you whisper softly, before leaning down to kiss her deeply and slowly. She kisses back, fervent, cool and soft against you. Her fingers laced with yours, you let the kiss linger a little longer than you probably should. Worth every second. “I guess I know what your feelings are on the matter....”

She smiles and looks you in the eyes. “You are my beloved Ku-chan. I am your perfect Aki-chan. You saved me, and I will always protect you, your princess, and all of our children. You may always rely upon me, my prince, and I will always be yours to command.” You nod and kiss her again, and you are both quite breathless after. “They're waiting for us, my daimyo.”

“Yes, my beloved harbinger.”

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>>2293868
You walk out and look at Hinata-hakase, standing in the corner with the mask in hand. The matagama gem on her prayer bead necklace is shining and the shadows roil and seethe near the mask. Inau, Yuuhi, and Kiki-hime all have leaf-tip arrows readied; Kiku-chan has two handfuls of charms; Er Yin holds her right hand before her chest with two fingers raised, the other hand far to the side, and her two fingers split and the others curled tightly.

The others are as ready as can be; even Jinyuu-onee-sama has a set of prayer beads rapped about her neck and hand, while the other grasps an odd crystal object, kind of a double bell curled in two fingers with pinky and pointer and thumb extended. Shoko's gloves are off, and Fuuta-chan sits before the other youths as well as Peta and Reiha, her Dream scroll set before her, half unrolled and piled high as she murmurs silently to herself and pens things into it.

You and Akari return to your places, she in front of Kiki-hime and Yuuhi-chan, next to a taiko-stick armed Yui-chan, while you step forward, drawing all your strength and power to yourself. “Ask your questions, gatekeeper! I am not afraid!”

The serious atmosphere is utterly ruined and giggles and soft laughter erupt around the room. Even Hinata-hakase can't help but crack a smile. Now if only you were as confident as you sounded....

>To Be Continued....

>>2293871
All is well!
Thanks for writing XS.

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Thank you for reading and playing. Finally getting to the nue.

Thanks for running, it was a lot of fun. Family times are always cozy.

>>2293871
"WHAT! Is your favorite color!"

>>2293887
Thanks for running XS

Thanks for running!

How did Clan Ryo handle the disappearance of the three wannabe-killer kids, QM? Did they think someone else decided to test their assassination exercise for real, or did they figure out Ryukusa was probably responsible but they just wrote this off as being destructive tendencies?

>>2293871
Thanks for running, should have figured on Akari knowing the whole time, but it was still very nice, and cute to see Ryukusa be surprised in a context beyond "about to be mauled"

>>2293919
Generally speaking, such incidents happen, and they do investigate thoroughly. Ryukusa was exceedingly careful. Deaths aren't unknown in such cclans of spirit-children, either during training, due to youkai predation, or the occasional murderous impulse from other supernatural beings (or even humans who are afraid and see more than they should) so it's not terribly unusual for a young spirit-child or two to go missing.

>>2294002
It's hard to do, but if anyone can, it would be Akari.

>>2294588
I suspect Ryukusa felt there was a reason she couldn't alert a teacher or other adult, was that because there wasn't time/they wouldn't believe her, or was it more "people who try to kill Akari shouldn't be alive"?

>>2294605

Pretty sure she said she *could* have told a teacher, and they'd have stopped it. She just didn't.

>>2294605
>>2294907
Ryukusa, half trained and running mostly on the insticnt of a Water dragonette, reasoned that allowing people who would plan an execute an assassination multiple chances to do so would be unhealthy in the extreme, especially since they had a working plan already. The adults are also trainers, and were unreliable about ending situations that could provide more training - after all, if you failed to keep your own ass alive, you couldn't be very useful in a shadow war. So she skipped straight to the most expedient and effective way of stopping them from further attempts. Killing them was nearly incidental to that solution.

Of the dragonettes, Water tend to the most alien thought process (as opposed to oni-children, where wood is the most alien mindset).

>>2294993
>(as opposed to oni-children, where wood is the most alien mindset)
Now you've got me curious, what are they like? I don't remember us meeting one.

>>2301870
You haven't met one as of yet.

They are thoughtful, wise, and extremely patient, unlike most oni-children. they are also utterly implacable, and far more destructive than others of their ilk. Though they don't regenerate nearly as well as dragonettes, they feel little or no pain and bleed even less. Trying to change one's mind is usually an act of futility, and while they are slow to anger, their anger destroys city blocks.

Many of those oni tales where you have a cunning on who rules a group of oni? Wood oni children are descended from those.