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>>2527956
It has been twenty-two years since that moment, and you are now listening to the human, then half-demon, your companion, and the representative of your nest to negotiate a proper price for the task. Your companion strokes your thigh slowly, seeking comfort in the touch, rather than trying to comfort. It always struck you as odd that this would be the case for her. Then again, such creatures as she was born from, half of their blood, were strange even by the standards of your people, to whom strange was not merely an appellation to be applied, but a desperate and endless struggle to be fought against.

Your name is Hebekaya Kei, and you are going to kill someone.

>Hebe-san can chose one, or combine two; however, if she combines two, she loses one choice in the next set of choices and cannot combine two in it. Write ins, as always will be considered first and may ignore the previous rule to an extent.
[] Wait patiently for your representative to finish negotiating with the human.
[] Interrupt and begin negotiating with the half-demon directly.
[] Kiss your companion's hand and reassure them.
[] Have your representative request an explanation of why this person needs to be dead.

>>2527956
>[x] Wait patiently for your representative to finish negotiating with the human.
>Listen carefully.

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>>2527956
Twitter: @XsQuestmistress

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

Previous Thread: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2508014/

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.” Currently held by Yuuhi.

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. Currently held by Inau.

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)
Yuuhi – Onyx Fox-mask Bracelet (Yako)

>>2527966
Time for Ryukusa!
Or, not so much?
>[x] Have your representative request an explanation of why this person needs to be dead.
Some interesting voting rules this time around.

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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.
Mo Ku Jen is 4' 6” and apparently straight and a demon.

>>2527966
>[] Have your representative request an explanation of why this person needs to be dead.

>>2527966
>[] Have your representative request an explanation of why this person needs to be dead.

>>2527966
>[] Have your representative request an explanation of why this person needs to be dead.
Definitely wanna hear which reason she's fed

>>2527966

Supporting >>2527982


The reason might not matter, in the end, but only a poor negociator would not take the opportunity to turn that to the clan's advantage.

Plus it gives us more loopholes if we need a way out.

>>2528053
It seems a little early to be looking for a way out already! Even if it's probably prudent to do so.

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[X] Have your representative request an explanation of why this person needs to be dead.
[+] Listen Carefully.

Representative Guzei is a shrewd and capable negotiator for the nest. You are generally content to allow him to do his duty uninterrupted and without fear he will undersell your skills or allow your nest to be taken advantage of. You don't like these people, however. Not merely because they are Yakuza thugs, preying upon those they deem unworthy of their concern, treating them like cattle or even farmland to be cultivated and harvested from without regard for their lives and desires, but because they are working with a demon.

It does not matter that the demon is hiding his nature from those in the room. You are above such petty things as appearances and masks. Demons are anathema to your kind to begin with, ans always have been, though the reasons and causes are lost in history. His parentage isn't an excuse either; half demons have choices. Spirit children are not bound by the nature of their spiritual parent. They have human blood, and human choice. Any excuse is admitting weakness, if not outright cowardice.

Your companion calls you a hard-case, which you have come to understand means you do not brook ignorance or stupidity. She is not wrong.

“The people around the target can be as puissant as the target herself may be, and it will not matter. Hebekaya-sensei is very capable, and will not require any support from you or your people, leaving you entirely in the clear, Hojo-sama.” The big man, heavy of flesh, his voice scarred by the cigars that paint the room in acrid and sweet aromas, merely grunts. Guzei leans forward and you tilt your head slightly, more to listen to the faint movements of the half-demon rather than to catch Guzei's voice.

Your companion notices your movement and takes your hand in theirs, her thumb sliding up rubbing your knuckles lightly. They do not like thee half-demon, which is understandable; her kind has much reason to hate them, and she more than most. They are similar in so many ways, and different than all others of the spirit children. Only demigods are more fearsome to her people, and you are thankful she is with you for this duty. They are nearly of a kind.

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“You must understand, Hebekaya has never failed a client, in either performance or in loyalty. Only the death of her entire family would prevent this job from, being successfully carried out, and she has many siblings.” Twenty-seven at last count. “The price may be steep, but you receive what you pay for.”

“Did you view the recordings? Explain to her what occurred?”

“You be an ass,” your companion pipes up in her imperfect Japanese. “If you ask her, ask her!” She sits back and takes her hand from yours, waving one hand around and then placing them across her chest. Hojo-sama's heart works harder, but he says nothing, while his supposedly tame half-demon makes an irritated noise.

“It is vital that she understand what she is up against.” Ah, the demon speaks, and his voice is haughty, laced with supposedly servile noise and barely hiding his contempt for everyone in the room. He hates, he hates well, and his voice cannot hide that from you.

[] Remain quiet and continue to listen.
[] Chastise your companion mildly.
[] Inform them of your understanding as it now is.
[] Have Guzei address their concern for you.
>The previous vote still applies.

>>2528114
>[] Remain quiet and continue to listen.

>>2528114
>[] Inform them of your understanding as it now is.

>>2528114
>[] Inform them of your understanding as it now is.

>>2528114
>[] Inform them of your understanding as it now is.

>>2528114
>[x] Inform them of your understanding as it now is.

>>2528114
>[] Remain quiet and continue to listen.
Ugh Hojo plans trying to ruin things again

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[X] Inform them of your understanding as it now is.

“I am fully aware of what she is and what abilities she has demonstrated.” Their silence is immediate and attentive, though the demon's heart beats a touch faster. He leans forward in his chair, curious. Hojo simply sits. Guzei becomes very still and relaxed, aware than offending you would incur the wrath of your companion, and she has no qualms about obeying the niceties of the nest if she deems that you have been offended. As she has obviously demonstrated to the room. “Your reliance on technology is charming but inadequate for the purposes for which you are hiring me. I have taken the liberties of securing my own lines of information and knowledge of the target. Please do not concern yourself with what I need to know of her capabilities and instead concern yourself with the negotiations.”

The moment of silence following your comment is broken by Hojo-sama's loud guffaw. “HA! You are just what they told me you were. You have my apology for doubting your skills!” Hojo turns towards Guzei and the half-demon leans back in his chair, though his muscles are still tight and his tendons creak and grind against each other in his tension. You have discomfited him, it seems. “

Good.

“Continues, Guzei, if you would please.” His heart beats much faster, and Hojo-sama snorts, understanding the statement for what it is – a threat that he is starting to displease you. The half-demon doesn't catch it, or doesn't seem to notice, which doesn't necessarily mean much.

The slender shoulder of your companion is pressed along your arm and you lean into her. Raising one hand you don't need to really wait for her to place hers atop yours. You write on her palm, English letters and shorthand you've made between the two of you. DEMON EYES ON WHO?

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>>2528312
RLY U NOTRLY GUZEI she informs you. Impatient and young, both very good qualities in someone you do not like. They make more mistakes that way.

“You may not like this, but Lady Hebekaya is an ethical person, and would like to know exactly what it is this woman has done to necessitate her death in such detail.” Guzei is apologetic, but he fakes embarrassment well. The nest cannot be threatened.

The half-demon speaks up. “Does that really matter?” He is polite, apologetic sounding, and not even close to being naïve.

“She's kidnapped my daughter.” Hojo-sama's explanation is interesting, but not all of the truth. Barely a quarter of it at best. “She's in an arranged marriage to another clan, and in addition to losing face, I'd have to deal with some very disappointed sorcerers and warriors. With Clan Ryo in upheaval and the local crime lords having some kind of internal squabble, I can't afford to fail the head of that clan.”

[] If they cannot be honest with you there is not point in continuing.
[] That is interesting but not even half a truth.
[] Get up and make ready to leave to make your point.
[] The maneuver is transparent and you will play your part.

>>2528321
>[x] Get up and make ready to leave to make your point.
How can we do the job without honesty from our client?

>>2528321
>[] That is interesting but not even half a truth.

>>2528321
>[] That is interesting but not even half a truth.

>>2528321
>[] That is interesting but not even half a truth.

>>2528321
>[] Get up and make ready to leave to make your point.

>>2528448
>>2528321

Eh,
>[] That is interesting but not even half a truth.
Is probably fine, doesn't really seem worth it to use multiple options right now.

>>2528321
>[x] That is interesting but not even half a truth.

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[X] That is interesting but not even half a truth.

Your own tendons and muscles creak as you tighten your free hand. It is all the demonstration of irritation you allow yourself. “I see,” Guzei replies agreeably enough. “It makes an certain amount of sense, and is certainly worth the price of-”

“Five hundred thousand.” Guzei stiffens as you interrupt him. Hojo doesn't seem to react but the price prompts his pet demon to ask a question.

“That does not seem like a great deal of money, honestly, Lady-”

“American.”

Guzei's heart actually stutters in terror, while Hojo's increases in tempo to a nearly worrying degree. “That's a preposterous amount of money, Lady Hebekaya,” the half-demon murmurs in a conciliatory and frankly offended tone, as if you are a playful child. “Surely that amount could be put to better use-”

“One hundred thousand for each fifth of the truth you add to the minuscule amount you have given me. The forces that surround your target are nothing insignificant and those who seek her life are just as powerful and far more wealthy than those who seek her death at this moment. You are being ridiculous. I do not care about the morality of your issues with this woman, nor the power of those around her to cause me issue. If that were the case we would not be speaking at this moment.” He doesn't try to interrupt you, which is very wise of him. You can only tolerate so much idiocy at a time. “The kami have a vested interest in her well being, Kumatori Hojo, and if it is as simple as the kidnapping of a beloved daughter and a prized bride, you would not have bothered to make the offer to my people. You have received the attention of their most valued and capable person. Please do them the courtesy of treating me with the respect my position and my skills command.”

The big man leans forward, making his chair creak in an alarming manner, while his pet demon bristles angrily at your diatribe. He reaches into his pocket and your companion leans forward herself, her hand slipping out of yours as she balls her fist and raises it, somewhere in front of you. She is most adorable when she is protective.

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>>2528620
“Give me your word that you will keep what you learn between yourself and those in this room.”

“Guzei, leave.” He immediately rises and walks out of the soundproofed and well insulated office. Hojo leans back, his heart slowing a bit at your abrupt dismissal of the man.

“He's around the corner,” your companion murmurs. You frown and start tapping your cane on the floor. “He's taking the elevator,” she adds and you cease.

“Anything you say may be said to her as well as me. We are as one in all matters.”

The big man leans forward again, his effort winding him slightly. “Understand that if this is learned by anyone, the repercussions will be disastrous.” You frown towards his voice. “It is no more or less a threat to you, than it is to me,” he explains and you nod shortly. “She must die so that her clan is destroyed, my daughter can be given to her husband and provide the material needed to make my clan relevant as well as assuage their anger, to mollify the leader of the Ryo clan before she does something at a level that we cannot compete at, and to remove the greatest threat to the military industrial complex of Japan that exists currently. Either she dies, or a hundred years of planning and careful preparation is ruined, and the major powers that rule Tokyo and by proxy, most of Japan go up in flames.”

Now that is much more interesting.

[] Of course you'll accept....at half that price.
[] Very well. A mere one hundred and fifty thousand American will suffice.
[] And what does the demon get out of it?
[] It is interesting enough that you must refuse.

>>2528633
>[x] And what does the demon get out of it?
>How the target is such a threat is another omission. What is her nature?

>>2528633
>[x] And what does the demon get out of it?
Info, info, gathering the info

>>2528633
>[X] And what does the demon get out of it?

>>2528645
Hebekaya says she is fully aware of what Ryuykusa is and will be.

How much to that is true is yet to be seen.

>>2528633
>[] It is interesting enough that you must refuse.
Hm, while the person we're playing as seems dedicated enough that if she accepts the job, we'd have to kill her, and interesting enough that that would be at least mildly regrettable, but I'm not seeing a strong reason for her to reject it just yet, so I'm a little intrigued to see that she potentially found one.
>>2528645
I think Kei has somehow gleaned her target's nature already with
>I am fully aware of what she is and what abilities she has demonstrated.
Though I guess it could be interesting to hear what they've missed or are trying to ommit.

I must make an errand, but we will continue a little later today as well. Should be gone no more than one hour from now.

>>2528676
>>2528682
I see. I was assuming that we did not know she was capable of what he described. If that *is* the case, ask away. I had the sense that the whole. demigod thing is maybe where the line would be drawn.

>>2528716
Later XS!

>>2528633
>[] It is interesting enough that you must refuse

>>2528633
>[] And what does the demon get out of it?

I've just seen Avengers Infinity War.

That's... an interesting movie.

>>2528646

Can she still refuse if she asks this?

>>2528815
I'd certainly hope so!
None of the info so far has been a real security threat and they're relying on us being professional in any case.

Must admit I'm confused why half a million dollars would be considered a lot of money in this context.

I mean... It's not THAT much money all in all.

And Ryukusa would probably cost them 10 times that if she's still alive at the end of the week. To say nothing of the month.

>>2528682

Honestly she has no reason to help either the little man who has admittted his business was basically ruined and the half-demon-shaped leech that's parading next to him

>>2528864

I mean, money is one thing, but there is some things money can't buy. Like still having a clan

>>2528633
>[X] they dont seem worth the trouble to work with.

>>2528864

Plus those jerkfaces are still hidding things, and while I'm no expert, the snake's name and the language difference between her companion and Hojo means she is Chinese.

The death of Japan's greatest military complex would be a boon for China, and a boon for assassins who will find many more custommers due to Japan's turmoil.

>>2528633
>[] And what does the demon get out of it?

>>2528815
She has the option of still refusing, so long as there is
a) no tie between it and one of the other choices that solidifies a yes or no
b) no multiple write-ins that pushes a yes or no situation.
and
c) no double choice that includes a yes or no that combines with the question that gains more votes than the single options.

>>2528831
They just admitted to corporate collusion with military buildups (illegal in Japan, as they are not to have their own military) and also to being a Yakuza group that interferes with the government directly (massive corruption).

>>2528917
She's Japanese - her name means "Serious Beauty" or "Night Rain" depending on how it is written. Her companion, on the other hand....

>>2529012
Yeah but that is stuff that Ryukusa and most of the Hojo clan's enemies already know, no? The government might not but I doubt they're scared of going to trial over what amounts to hearsay here either. We don't have any evidence.

>>2528849
It's not just the money. It's the reputation and potential for other business, as well as hojo perhaps calling in favors to have reduced the price. The money is almost on the order of a toke, a evidenced by the potential steep drop. also, it's in American money, which is worth a lot more yen in addition to being easily (and untraceably) used elsewhere).

>>2529029
Not really - remember, Ryukuza is dealing with the top echelon of the varied yakuza groups. Hojo is THE head of his group, and most of the rank and file of the three clans have very little idea of how precarious their clans' situations are.

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[+] How is the target a threat?
[X] And what does the demon get out of it?
[+] They seem to be unworthy of the trouble they will cause your people.

“It seems to me that all this person needs to do is to simply avoid your attempts to seek control of her captive bride and your world will come crumbling down.” Hojo's heart remains surprisingly calm. He knows this already of course, which is why he's requesting the nest's assistance. “So her threat to you is so pervasive and widespread that you are willing to pay me for this duty and accept the presence of our people among yours and in your lands.”

“If she succeeds, then it is a moot point – the Kaga won't tolerate you, and you can be sure that Clan Ryo won't put up with people like yourselves here.” You wish you could call it a threat so you could be done with this – these people are more trouble than they seem to be worth. Still, the nest must be cared for.

“And the demon? What does he get out of this?” Your companion stiffens, but you lay your hand upon her thigh, and she relaxes. A tiny bit.

Hojo's heart speed up a bit more, but the half-demon is angry now, the smell of burning ash and sulfur spreading from him like a wave. His heart pounds heavily and you can feel his hate focusing on you directly.

“Taisho Ryoga is my confidante and has my utmost support and trust.” Bright sparks of ozone rip through the sulfur and ash – the demon is surprised? How odd. Unless....he wasn't aware Hojo knew he was a demon. For a human, this man is extremely dangerous after all. Perhaps not directly, but very much indirectly. “His skills have provided the Hojo group with soldiers and tools, not to mention the money and skills to change the face of war upon all the continents. I have every faith in his capacity to continue his work – if he has the right materials to work with, which will be much more readily available with the scattering of the dragonette's newly formed clan and the people whom she has gathered to do her bidding.”

“I do not like demons or their spawn. It is as a personal courtesy to you, Kumatori Hojo, that I remained here to listen to your offer.” You lower your head, which others seem to have taken to meaning you are thinking. Which you are, but the gesture also lets you listen more acutely to the things around you, particularly the high pitch of the electronic devices and their varied radio signals. Of which there are surprisingly few active in here. Only two cameras, one of which is broadcasting outside the room. No need to mention it of course. He must take care of his own nest. “The opportunity is interesting. Possibly too much so.”

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>>2529233
Hojo-sama leans back in his chair and his voice is distorted by his hands being in front of his mouth slightly. The half-demon's hatred is boiling over, and you suspect some poor thing will be horribly maimed or killed this evening when he escapes to a private place. “I will pay the five hundred thousand American, and I will guarantee your people jobs and living places in the areas of the city under my control when we are finished, up to one thousand of them.”

That is enough to maintain two breeding colonies. If you could manage that you might be permitted an entire family to breed with in Japan, as opposed to having to travel and stay overseas for a year every time you need to breed.

[] Accept the duty. Ryukusa dies, or your family dies.
[] Refuse. There is nothing he can offer worth annihilation of your family.
[] There are conditions to be discussed....
[] You must consult with the head of your clan. You wish to refuse; he may not allow you to.

>>2529239
>[] You must consult with the head of your clan. You wish to refuse; he may not allow you to.
Hm. This offer seems too good to pass up, especially since Hebekaya has no way of knowing she's opposing the protagonist.

>>2529239
>[] You must consult with the head of your clan. You wish to refuse; he may not allow you to.

>>2529239
>[x] You must consult with the head of your clan. You wish to refuse; he may not allow you to.

>>2529239
>[x] You must consult with the head of your clan. You wish to refuse; he may not allow you to.
I wanna see this head.

>>2529239
>[] You must consult with the head of your clan. You wish to refuse; he may not allow you to.

>>2529239
>[] You must consult with the head of your clan. You wish to refuse; he may not allow you to.

>>2529239
>[] Accept the duty. Ryukusa dies, or your family dies.

>>2529233
That consequence of failure is pretty shit, I don't know enough of whats going on to subvert it though. They have warning of Ryukusageddon, they may also want to make preparations it happening.

I guess I'l suggest considering outright betrayal if they could work it to their advantage. Them allying with clan Ryu over this would be hilarious, if improbable.

>>2529239
>[] You must consult with the head of your clan. You wish to refuse; he may not allow you to.

>>2529239

>The offer is too good to be true. You must warn your clan bout it.

>>2529233
>The critically needed correction of Japan's spirituality can't happen because we need our profit margins from creating spiritual abominations to act as living weapons
Ryukusa needs to ramp up preparations fast.

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[X] You must consult with the head of your clan. You wish to refuse; he may not allow you to.

“I must consult the head of my people. He is a wise and powerful person. He will know what must be done.” The heavy man reeks of satisfaction and his heart slows down as he calms. He is so certain of the master's desires and needs that he cannot see a refusal. The demon is not mollified, which is at least a pleasant thought to come away with as you rise. “I do not like this situation. You are being less than forthcoming, and that leaves me with doubts about the sincerity of other offers you have made.”

“I assure you, Lady Hebekaya, that the Hojo Group....” he says as he rises from his seat.

Your companion is up in an instant, stepping between you and the half-demon, as well as between you and Hojo-sama. Her sudden movement surprises them both. You slowly get to your feet, and wrap both hands around your stick. “I assure you, Kumatori Hojo, that I am unsatisfied with the offers you have made because of the way in which you have answered my questions. Regardless of the decision I am given, I will not be pleased with you. While I may not have the pervasive influence or the large numbers of soldiers you and your clans have....”

With a flick of your wrist and without turning you drive the tip of your stick into the bulletproofing of the doors behind you and twist it, sending cracks throughout the heavy plasticine material. You push and the supposedly indestructible polymer material shatters, collapsing into fist sized chunks in the hallway. Lowering your stick, you lift your head and murmur very quietly. “I am not someone you would wish to earn the enmity of.” you open your unseeing eyes, and the soft gasp the demon gives is worth the shame of your disfigurement.

Your companion humphs happily at the paired Yakuza as you slowly make your way around the couch and into the hallways, moving easily through the scattered debris. You felt where every piece dropped; there is no need to move your stick or shuffle your feet. “Hey, are we really going to try and kill that monster?” your companion asks in English.

“A home for a thousand of my people is an offer the king may not be able to refuse. The opportunity to have a breeding group here may not be an offer I dare refuse. I hate traveling so far, even with you there.” She runs a hand through your ankle length hair slowly, and you slow down. “Perhaps we should speak with her ourselves....” Her giggles are dark and give you all sorts of bloody thoughts.

If the opportunity arises....perhaps you'll-

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>>2529487
Elsewhere.

You are sitting with Ryuu Akari, Hebiki Rishi, and Rie-sama in the shrine, as Akari half sobs, half laughs, and Rishi run a hand through her hair in embarrassment, a tomboyish gesture that makes you adore the soft hearted little killing machine all the more. Rie's twinned tails sway back and forth as the tension drains form your new warrior, and your lover and best friend. The horrific discovery of the breeding program that their clan and specifically their families have been practicing have really made you upset.

So upset....

[] Ask them to come up with a workable plan for you to eliminate their family, or at least the worst of it.
[] Explain to them that you didn't realize it was that bad, and if you had, well, nothing really would have changed because they're yours now anyways.
[] Ask Akari-niji-chan to explain why she didn't say anything sooner....surely she knows you well enough by now!
[] It's not like you don't understand the pressure the clan places on people; they're not only blameless but just need reassurance.
[] Ask Rie-sama what she would do in your position as guardian of a family – you need an opinion, though there's no chance it's objective!

>>2529490
>[x] It's not like you don't understand the pressure the clan places on people; they're not only blameless but just need reassurance.
>[x] Ask Rie-sama what she would do in your position as guardian of a family – you need an opinion, though there's no chance it's objective!
Back to our regularly scheduled Ryukusa!

>>2529490
>[] Explain to them that you didn't realize it was that bad, and if you had, well, nothing really would have changed because they're yours now anyways.
>[] Ask Akari-niji-chan to explain why she didn't say anything sooner....surely she knows you well enough by now!
>[] It's not like you don't understand the pressure the clan places on people; they're not only blameless but just need reassurance.

>>2529490
>[] Explain to them that you didn't realize it was that bad, and if you had, well, nothing really would have changed because they're yours now anyways.

>Ask them if there is anything more you should know about this situation.

>You -the Ryu Clan, that is- will find an appropriate response to this problem. Ask the two girls and the cat kami for their input.

>>2529490
>[] Explain to them that you didn't realize it was that bad, and if you had, well, nothing really would have changed because they're yours now anyways.
>[] It's not like you don't understand the pressure the clan places on people; they're not only blameless but just need reassurance.

>>2529490
I'll support >>2529522

>>2529522
>>2529571
Agreed.

>>2529604
Also maybe take a moment to explain to the cat that it isn't just about breeding, but violating ones hearts desires. Maybe she'll get that better. Maybe not?

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>>2529609
[X] Explain to them that you didn't realize it was that bad, and if you had, well, nothing really would have changed because they're yours now anyways.
[X] It's not like you don't understand the pressure the clan places on people; they're not only blameless but just need reassurance.
[+] Is there anything more they need or want to tell you?
[+] Clan Ryu, as a clan, will deal with these atrocities together. Is there anything that they can tell you, or input that can be added?
[+] Rie-sama may not quite get this violation of personal feelings, even if it hasn't actually happened yet.

The tension lowers and you glance over to Yui, who is calmly watching her bride-to-be, her eyes bright and filled with love. The blue-green glow of them is soft, and gentle, but you can see the beginnings of rage, deep within her. She might not realize it herself, but it's there, a faintly smoldering thread of golden light that will soon grow, becoming a streak of violence to be directed at those who threatened her beloved Akari, who made Akari cry.

Who made her Akari afraid.

You're not going to do anything about it. You've already decided that Hebedokei Clan needs to be purged, or at least the Hebiki family needs to have the upper branches pruned so the lower branches don't have to live in terror of becoming forced breeding material to refine the wani blood in their veins. Which brings up a point. “Rie-sama?”

“Mmm.”

“It's not really that it's family that is the real problem, though it is a problem for people like us. It more that they would be forced into it, that they wouldn't have any choices and they would be used for breeding against their will.” She blinks at you, clearly not getting it. “It about their hearts desires, their desires to be cherished and to cherish another, to make a family of their own, of their own free will.” She seems to start getting it. “It would be like me tying you up and forcing you to guard my family like an onmyōji would do, rather than letting you have the opportunity to choose.”

Rie's rails stick straight out at slight angles and bush out wildly. Her pupils spread, taking up her entire iris except for a sliver of bright blue at the edges. “Call me. I'll be there.” She immediately stands up and stalks into the shadows under the altar as a cat, and is gone.

“....Ryukusa, that is one angry nekomata,” Rishi points out quietly.

“God's Eye Nekomata,” you correct her mildly. “She's on the same page and Yui and I.” Yui glances at you and then squirms in place, looking discomfited. “Just so you know, this doesn't have to leave the shrine. I am pretty sure than everyone will obey my command, but I won't do that, not against wani blooded spirit-children. I'm going to ask for volunteers to deal with a problem, and I'm going to take Yuuhi, and we're going to make sure the Hebiki family understand just how displeased I am for threatening people I love.”

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>>2529802
“You can't do that, aniki,” Akari-chan says softly. “They have our bothers, sisters, cousins, hostages to our good behavior.” You stare at Akari. “I knew you wouldn't put innocent lives at risk, so when they came for me, I would have gone with them.”

“Why would you do that?” asks Yui softly, and Akari turns wide eyes to her lover, who looks sad and a little confused. “Why would you do something that you wouldn't let me do?”

Akari looks down. “You didn't have anyone in Heaven to hold you there. No one loved or missed you or cared about you. You weren't responsible for anyone....”

“You can't protect hostages when you're one of the hostages, Akari-niji-chan. Oh and ah might not be good people, but they were excellent teachers, and if you're scared for them now, you'd be helpless in the hands of the Hebiki.” Her expression is miserable, of course. “thi is not your fault. You're not responsible for putting those people, those siblings, into the danger they're in. but you can get them out – but not if you're suffering in chains and bondage along with them.”

“They'd never let you keep her,” Rishi says, and Akari goes white. “Even if they let you have her at all, you wouldn't get to keep her. She'd be a burden, and she'd be tested for her value to the bloodlines. Then, when she was old enough....”

Akari lunges.

You're already there, your sapphire claws at Akari's throat, your other hand under her arm and against the the back of her head, trapping her between your body and the razorblades at her throat, tiny beads of blood growing where your indestructible claws are pressed tightly against her skin. Rishi remains where she is, fallen back against the cushions, looking into the pools of darkness that are Akari's eyes. She's not afraid, she's not even worried....but it was still brave to only fall back instead of flee. If Akari got one hand on her....

You whisper softly to her, your voice gentle, filled with all the love you have for her. “If I had known it was that bad, Akari....nothing would have changed. I would still, without any of the power of gifts I have, walked into your family and destroyed them as best I could, because no one, absolutely no one, hurts my Aki. You would still be my best and dearest friend, and I would have fought them all, fought all of Clan Ryo, if I had one inkling they would dare to cause you pain.” You hold her close, but slowly, slowly pull the talons from her throat. Her eyes are still black, though. “You're mine, Akari, you have always been mine. And I have always been yours. They will pay for this, because I will not see the mother of our child, the child Yui wants to be the father of, be tortured for her love.”

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>>2529807
Akari's breathing is slow and steady, and the dark pools slowly fade into soft carnelian, but there's not much of anyone home in them still. She slowly relaxes, but you still hold her. Yui slips close and turns her head, leaving her in your grasp. “I want your baby, Akari, inside me. I can't have that if you go to them.”

The emptiness of those carnelian eyes fills with realization, and Rishi watches, still unmoving, but relaxed, calm and collected, as though she just hadn't tried to commit suicide by Akari. “....but....” Yui shakes her head and places a finger against her beloved lips.

“I love you, Ryuu Akari. I will never not love you. No one can take that from me. Not my family. Not your family. Not even Ryuu Ryukusa.” You slowly let go of Akari, and Yui kisses her, softly and deeply, sliding her arms around her lover's neck and moaning happily, while Akari simply accepts the kiss, only returning it slowly, and soon, eagerly.

You slip over to Rishi. “We should probably leave,” you murmur, any further discussion pretty much eclipsed by Yui and Akari's rapid escalation from involved kiss to much more intimate kisses.

“Sukeban?” You glance at her as you help her up and you both quietly leave the shrine. “....um....will it be like that with Fuuta-sama and me?”

“Maybe. If you're lucky.”

“....it might be nice,” Rishi says softly, glancing back at the two lovers in the dark.

>To Be Continued....

>>2529812
Thanks for running!
As is typical, there is no easy solution to a problem like this one.

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Thank you for Reading, Playing, and your patience.

I hope it was worthwhile.

I must sleep immediately. I will be available in five or six hours for questions and answers and such.

>>2529837
Thanks for running XS

>>2529837
Thanks for running, so was that the blind albino snake-girl you were thinking about including earlier, or was there a different one you had in mind?

Either way, I'd like to see her and her clan again, even as enemies (though that's not really my preference), and I'm glad Akari did receive some tangible assurance that she's still loved.

>>2529862
Different snake, not albino, different clan/family group. She has been written about before, under a different name.

Thanks for running

Lovely ending

>>2529487
>“Perhaps we should speak with her ourselves....”
This refers to Ryukusa, correct?

>>2529878
Yes.

>>2529879
Excellent, that's what I was hoping for.

Not that it won't be a terrible mess regardless.

And I gotta ask, we're taking terrible risks in putting off destroying Japan, how far along are our plans for preparation? How long is Ryukusa willing to take?

>>2529868
Ah, I thought Kei was the white snake in the opening post.

>>2529879
XS, would it be possible for Ryukusa to talk to various people and/or representatives of other faiths that she knows aren't garbage and actually care about the state of things? If Enma-Oh knows what might happen, others should know too, to a degree.

>>2529944
I recall an older XS one shot with a lovecraftian theme, that was basically a timeline where Ryukusa went critical, caused a worldwide domino effect of armageddons, the masquerade was shattered and civilizations, powers and faiths were screwed up worldwide.

I'd... rather that not come to pass, amusing as it was.

>>2530648
I forgot to make the point I was getting at: some coordination might go a long way, and we should look into that.

>>2529901
Unfortunately, Ryukusa and friends are months away from being even moderately prepared. There will be time skips.. this will change for each group she can coerce into assisting.

>>2529944
Yes it is, if that is what is desired.