> "Ooh, interesting. I am sure there are others far better versed in his works than I, but I do know enough to regret he only graced the world a few centuries after I began my hibernation."
> Nod, then turn to Reisen.
> "What about you, if you were afforded the opportunity?"
> Finish off our tea.
> Hold up a non-teacup hand to the dolls with a smile.
> "I thank you for your gracious offer, especially as your tea is quite delicious. But I fear I must continue my search for my companions. The sooner we all get answers, the better, I think."
> Give it the cup.
> "I do believe so, yes. Unless you two desire to catch up with each other further?"
>"I think it's probably best I find my companions before they do something ill-advised."
> Give an annoyed grunt.
> Head back to where we left Yuyuko and the underground folks.
> Are they playing Parcheesi or something else?
> "You could say that. Do any of you know who Seiga Kaku is?"
> "She is a hermit, and an exceedingly untrustworthy person. She did...something near the Saigyou Ayakashi, something involving a large amount of magic power."
> Frown.
> "I chased her through half of Hakugyokurou, but she seems to have tricked me for long enough to escape."
> "How long ago did she leave for the Saigyou Ayakashi?"
> How much of a threat does Yoshika pose to Yuyuko, given what Yoshika can do to spirits?
> "I don't suppose she gave an idea of when she would return, or what she planned on doing?"
> Frown.
> "I was thinking that perhaps I should go back there, yes. Would the three of you be okay by yourselves here for a little while longer?"
> Are we aware of Seiga being dismissed from Miko's entourage?
> Nod to our guests.
> "Thank you for understanding. I apologize that we have been such poor hosts. I will return as soon as I can."
> Make our way back to the Saigyou Ayakashi, keeping an eye out for Yuyuko.
> Give a bow.
> "My apologies, Yuyuko-sama. I pursued the culprit through a large part of Hakugyokurou, but her tricks proved to be too much for me, and she eventually escaped without proper punishment."
> Give a short, quick wave to Yoshika.
> "Hello again. You're not going to come charging after me a second time, are you?"
> Give an annoyed grunt.
> "Good."
> Turn back to Yuyuko.
> "I am not sure of the affects of what Seiga did. She laid out many, many talismans, and then raised her arms and all of the talismans caught on fire. Something obviously magically significant happened, but I couldn't tell what."
> Take a look at the Saigyou Ayakashi. Does it look any different from normal?
> "Mmm...it does, yes. Ah, I just remembered something. When I asked Seiga what she was doing, she said she was 'taking a little taste'. Maybe she is now siphoning power or energy from the Saigyou Ayakashi somehow?"
> Does that sound reasonable?
> "It certainly seems possible, yes. I think you are better able to tell than I, though."
> Nod.
> "Indeed."
> Gesture toward Yoshika.
> "It does not appear Seiga has escaped scot-free, however."
> "Can we keep her locked away somewhere hidden until Seiga fixes what she did?"
> "Perhaps the graveyard is worth investigating, then. Or maybe we could ask the other Taoists, if I can find them."
> Do we know anything about where Seiga lives, or frequents?
> "It is the biggest lead I know as to her whereabouts. I don't think I need to sit there and wait, particularly given I have other things to do, but there might be something there that leads to her."
> Frown.
> "I suppose that is true. I am not sure where else is worth searching, though."
> Gesture to Yoshika.
> "Is there any way we can track Seiga down using her?"
> "Then I guess I must seek out the Taoists."
> Do we know where we could find the Taoists?
> Nod.
> "Then I will do this. I believe Reimu may know where they are, so I will consult her first."
> Smile.
> "That is part of the reason I plan to visit her, yes. Ah, that reminds me. The first person I asked about the play who showed interest wanted to know what it was going to be about. What should I tell people who ask?"
> Nod.
> "I can relay this. I assume I can also tell people that we will not be asking them to do anything dangerous or vulgar."
> How's Yoshika doing?
> Does she still have that talisman on her face?
> "I am sure that won't be a problem."
> Gesture toward Yoshika.
> "Should we deal with her now, then? Or are you content where you sit for the time being?"
> "We can certainly both do so. I just want to be sure this is taken care of."
> Frown.
> "I am not pleased with how we have been treated."
> "By Seiga, I mean."
> "Right. Oh!"
> Look slightly horrified.
> "Oh, no! I did not mean to imply that I though our guests had been treated poorly. I am terribly sorry."
> Are we within Yoshika's line of vision?
> Is there anywhere in Hakugyokurou suitable for locking someone away?
>How much do we know of Yoshika's ability to eat anything?
> Does Yoshika appear to be breathing?
> "Well, we do not exactly have dedicated prisons here. Maybe we could ask a favor of Yukari-sama and have her stored away until Seiga resurfaces?"
> "Shall I make the request of her, then?"
> "All right. I shall leave at once, unless you wish me to do something else first."
> Give Yuyuko a bow.
> "By your leave."
> Head back Gensokyo-ward, aiming for the Hakurei Shrine. We should run as far as the top of the stairs and then fly the rest of the way.
>Approach shabby shrine.
> Gotta put on our best poker face here.
> Give Yukari a bow.
> "Good day, Yukari-sama. I have come on behalf of Yuyuko-sama to ask a small favor of you."
> Give Reimu and Suika a nod.
> "Good day, Reimu, Suika."
> Turn back to Yukari.
> "I caught Seiga Kaku performing some kind of ritual in front of the Saigyou Ayakashi. We have reason to believe she is now siphoning power or energy from it, and Yuyuko-sama also believes the tree is now dying. Seiga escaped, but we managed to capture her jiangshi minion, and we would like to sequester her away where Seiga cannot get at her without revealing herself. Do you have any ideas?"
> Nod.
> "Thank you very much. I only came across Seiga at the very end of what she was doing. She had laid down many talismans before setting them all on fire at once. She then told me that she was 'just taking a little taste', before her minion charged at me and she ran away. Yuyuko-sama is currently at the base of the tree, using the captured minion as a chair."
> "Do not worry, Reimu. I will handle this."
> "Yuyuko-sama and I are confident in Yukari-sama's ability to help."
>"Dammit Reimu, will you just let me be the protagonist for once? Geez!
>"Oh, I had something to ask you Reimu. I'm looking for people matching these descriptions for a play that Yuyuko-sama has written."
>Repeat our play recruitment schpiel.
>"Yes, but I may as well ask you while I'm here."
> Frown.
> "If you're really worried about the Saigyou Ayakashi going 'out of control', then you can rest assured that, if anything, the opposite is going to happen. It does not appear that Seiga is controlling the tree, only that she is killing it."
> Oh, that may be true. Is there?
> 'May'? Not 'will'?
> "Mrr...I suppose that is true. Still, Yuyuko-sama does not seem very worried about the situation..."
> "Ah! Yukari-sama, there is one other thing. There are currently a few living guests in Hakugyokurou. Due to the circumstances of their presence there, I must request they be given their privacy."
> How has our opinion of Reimu been over the years, anyway? We're what, the #3 or #4 incident solver at this point? We must have had sufficiently many run-ins with her, both incident and not, to form a proper opinion.
> Give Reimu a pleading look.
> "Please, Reimu, let me handle this. Seiga attacked my home and made a fool of me in her escape. I want to take her down myself."
> Are we aware of Mamizou and her spellcard where she turns into Reimu?
> Give Reimu a bow.
> "Thank you. Truly. I will not let you down."
> "Understood. Do you know where I can find the Taoists, then?"
> Nod.
> "I had heard that myself, yes. Apparently Miko's attendants has a small run-in at the Myouren Temple this morning. They left very quickly, though, which is strange."
> "From what I could tell, it actually sounded like that Temple was not their destination. Even Byakuren wasn't sure they were only there to cause trouble."
> Do we know the Kasen Reimu mentioned?
> "They probably did, just for not as long as one would expect. But that is another issue. Do you suppose Kasen would know how to find Seiga or the other Taoists?"
> Frown.
> "That is unfortunate. In that case, do you know if there is a way to use Yoshika to track Seiga?"
> How did our last encounter end, again?
> Wait. That means we should be upset with her rather than the other way around, yes?
> Sounds like she owes us, then. Unless we already took our revenge?
> We don't currently have any favors owed us by anyone, do we?
> Do we know of anyone in a high position that has it in good with Patchouli other than everyone else in that mansion?
> Blink.
> "That...sounds like I will be visiting Marisa first, to see if I can get an audience at all."
> "Thank you. I will need it."
> "Before I go, however, I would request again you consider Yuyuko-sama's planned performance, particularly the role she would like you to play. If it is any help, the Myouren Temple matriarch has expressed interest, so that is at least one person you can count on to not cause a fuss."
> "Yuyuko-sama wishes to keep many of the details a secret so as to not spoil much of the production, but she told me that it is about 'the ordinary daily lives of people who aren't ordinary at all. Then the days stop being ordinary.' We can also promise nothing offensive or vulgar. She plans for five players; one who is very tall, one who is medium-sized with red hair, one who does not have black hair, one who is in very good shape, and one who is...well. 'One who is Reimu' were her exact words."
> "Thank you. If it does interest you, it will take place at the Human Village, though I was told not to worry about the logistics of such."
> Nod.
> "That is all I have to say on that matter. I will now resume my investigation, unless you have anything else you wish to say."
> "Feel free. After all you have done for me today, the least I can do for you is let you vent."
> How close is Reimu?
> Hold our arms in front of us in a ready-for-a-hug pose.
> "In that case, I can at least offer you this."
> How cold are we?
> "I do what I can. Thank you again for everything."
> Break the hug, if we haven't already.
> "Best of luck with the rest of your day, Reimu. I look forward to hearing your decision on Yuyuko-sama's production."
> Take flight and head toward Marisa's house.
> Make a mental note of this location, in case we need to find it again in the future.
> "I see. That is a useful landmark, yes."
> Swoop on down into the cave.
> Point at the web sign.
> "It seems we are getting close to the earth spiders. I wonder who Kitichi is?"
> What is our opinion of oni?
> "Interesting. I suppose one gets their revenue any way they can. Ah, I believe I forgot to ask this earlier. Is there another surface exit? Or have we passed through the only one?"
> "Most fortunate. If my companions came this way, hopefully they will not be able to leave without our noticing."
> Gesture at the web sign again.
> "But first things first. I assume this means we are close to the earth spider colony?"
> "Excellent. May I ask you lead the way? Unless they are simply straight ahead, I suppose."
> Follow if she leads. If she doesn't lead, keep going forward.
> Let's make our way in that direction and see if we can pick up on the conversation.
> Do either of them look worse for wear?
> "Pardon me, ladies. Do you need some assistance?"
> Nod.
> "Very well, and please forgive my startling interruption. May I ask who has done this? I am currently following someone who may have come in this direction."
> Frown.
> "My sympathies. If I find who I am looking for and it turns out they are the ones that assaulted you from behind unprovoked, I will bring them back here."
> "I mean that I do not believe they were responsible, if for no other reason than because I would like to think I have instilled better habits than that in them. But I will still investigate, just to be sure."
> Nod.
> "If they have it, it shall be returned."
> "Ah! Yes."
> Give both youkai a simple bow.
> "I am Miko, a simple Taoist hermit. I come from a time long past, and my companions and I are relatively new arrivals to this land. It is fascinating just how much has changed since our slumber began."
> That was Seiga's doing, wasn't it? Or did we ask for that ourselves?
> Frown.
> "I must apologize for that if it caused any consternation. One of my advisors thought that I would want to return to my position as empress of this land when I awoke. While an understandable assumption, my inclination is no longer toward ruling. She has also been dismissed from my company until such a time she reflects upon her wicked ways and repents."
> "It pains me to think Seiga may have fallen so far. But I suppose you may be correct."
> "You speak as someone with much knowledge of what happened. If I may ask, what role did you play in all of this?"
> How much of the whole army thing do we already know about, up to and including the resolution?
>"I would be interested to hear your account of the events that took place in that case, I myself am not too clear on the details."
> How much do we know of Higan?
> Do we know how to get there, or how to contact any of their emissaries? Aside from the obvious, of course.
> Frown.
> "Higan was involved in this? That...could be worrisome."
> "Ah, I see. And you made sure this person was properly handled?"
> Nod.
> "Good. The less the activities of those in my company overlap with the activities of those in Higan, the better. You must be quite the formidable combatant to be able to defeat one of theirs."
> Gesture to Yamame.
> "Would that have been you?"
> "Ah, okay."
> Turn back to Kisume.
> "Whoever that may have been, I hope to meet them some day."
> We previously established that we don't know that name, yes?
> "Then I shall hope fate will smile upon me. I thank you for what you have done to stop those who would do such terrible things."
> "If I may ask about the previous topic, then, could you tell me perhaps the direction your assailant came from? Given they presumably came at you from behind, would they have come from the surface, or further underground?"
>Do Futo or Tojiko use 'real tricky familiars'?
> Alternatively, do Tojiko's lightning strikes come from above?
> "Did it feel elemental, such as electric, or just like normal danmaku? Or were you simply bludgeoned with something, perhaps?"
> Could Seiga or Yoshika have done such a thing?
> "How strange. Unfortunately, I am not sure any of my advisors, current or former, could do such a thing..."
> "Hmm...what does your wand look like?"
> "That should be fairly recognizable."
> Nod.
> "All right, let us see if we can narrow this down even just a little bit. Is this tunnel the only surface entrance to the underground."
> "So if whoever did this came from the surface, they would still be down here. Unless you were unconscious for a long time, I suppose, but that does not seem likely."
> Grimace.
> "That may complicate matters a bit. Have you seen anyone pass this way since you awakened?"
> !
> "Were they heading further downward, or returning to the surface?"
> "That is good to know. Those would be my companions. I wonder if they are still down there."
> Nod.
> "I will go investigate, then, while keeping my eyes peeled for your wand."
> Turn to Reisen.
> "Reisen, as I know you have your own business to conduct, I will not ask you to join me any further than is necessary for you."
> "Ah, splendid. Best of luck to both of you. I hope for a peaceful resolution to your situation, and I will have to visit again some time to see for myself. And thank you again for your help with the boar. If you see the wolf huntress, please let her know I have retrieved her trap and will return it to her next time I see her."
> "Thank you. Safe travels, both of you."
> Turn back to Kisume.
> "I shall return when I know more. Please excuse me."
> Head further down the tunnel.
> Let's avoid any risk of ankle-twisting by taking flight and heading further down the tunnel that way.
> Kisume told us to go straight ahead, so keep going northward.
> The place isn't burning down, at least.
> Land and continue on foot to the bridge.
> Head into the city proper and have a look around.
> Head down the long street (North?).
> Are there any shopkeepers on this corner that do not look terribly busy or drunk?
> Nothing else for it. Make our way over to a vendor currently having a drink, then.
> "Ah, forgive my rudeness, but I am only looking for companions of mine. Have you need a woman in white and a ghost in green pass by here today?"
> Inventory
> Give a slight frown.
> "Ah, that is unfortunate. I suppose it would be difficult to keep track of individuals in busy streets over the course of a work day."
> "I see. My apologies for hassling you. Have a pleasant day, and best of luck with your business."
> Continue northward.
> East
> Well, that's certainly different.
> Head to the manor.
> Make our way to the doors. If nothing unusual is present, knock.
> "Hello, yes. I am looking for companions of mine. Have you need a woman in white and a ghost in green stop here today?"
> "I see. What were they doing?"
> Blanche a bit.
> "They...oh dear. May I ask for the same directions to the clinic?"
> "Curious...did they say anything about where they were going instead?"
> Were we aware of a Buddhist clinic here underground?
> "Oh. I see. All right, thank you very much for your time and information."
> "Hmm...ah, yes. Did you notice if they had a long thin wrapped-up object with them, or perhaps a white-blue rod with wings that is about a foot and a half long?"
> "All right, that is good. I believe that is all I need to know, unless there was anything unusual you noticed about them."
> "I suppose they may come off that way. All right, I believe that is all I need to know. Thank you again for your help."
> Assuming the woman doesn't stop us, hurry back to the city entrance and head westward from there, looking for the clinic.
> Is there anyone outside the clinic that is clearly currently maintaining it?
> For that matter, is there anyone outside the clinic that is someone we know or otherwise recognize?
> Is there any indication on the outside of the building that the clinic is Buddhist-run?
> Take a cleansing breath. This is very likely to be unpleasant.
> Put on a neutral expression, as if we are not about to walk into a Buddhist-run clinic, and casually enter the clinic.
> Are Futo or Tojiko immediately visible?
> Look slightly taken aback for q split second, then nod.
> "As you wish."
> Exit the clinic and wait for her or someone else to join us outside.
> Nod knowingly.
> "This is understandable. No offense is taken."
> "Yes. It is my understanding that Futo and Tojiko were involved in a scuffle while visiting this city earlier today, and they were given directions to this clinic. Have they stopped by?"
> Frown.
> "That is unfortunate. In that case, have you seen anyone in the possession of a white-blue wand with wings, about a foot and a half long?"
> Sigh.
> "it seems luck is not on my side today."
> "A fine question indeed."
> How true is that? Do Futo and Tojiko typically not do anything unless we tell them, or are they given more personal freedom than that?
> Give a small smile and shrug.
> "As much as I am aware everything they do is a reflection of myself, they are still there own people in the end."
> Nod.
> "Thank you."
> "Of course. I am well aware of what oni are capable of, and if what I have heard is true, my friends have already experienced this first-hand."
> "Always. But, perhaps you could direct me somewhere that may have more information about who and what I seek, a place that would avoid such unpleasantries?"
> Have we ever initiated an attack on any of Hijiri's followers, or otherwise intentionally directly antagonized any of them?
> Has Hijiri ever done the same to Fujo and/or Tojiko?
> What about those other things? :(
> What about her and us being antagonistic personally, rather than having underlings cause mischief?
> "You mention a Palace...I did just come a rather large manor, set off from the rest of the city and notably more elaborate than the regular city dwellings. A red-haired woman in dark green answered the door. Is that the same Palace, or another house entirely?"
> How much are Futo and Tojiko for dancing? Presumably Tojiko doesn't, given current circumstances...
> "I shall look into the dance hall, then."
> "Excellent. I will detain you no further, then."
> "I will keep this clinic in mind. A good day to you as well."
> Assuming Shou does not try to stop us, follow her directions to The Felt.
> Enter and have a look around.
> Do they have our backs to us, are they facing toward the door, or somewhere in between?
> What kind of physical condition are they in?
> Is our sword visible?
> What are they doing?
> Put on a mildly stern face, in case they look up in the next few moments.
> Clasp our hands together in front of us at about hip level.
> Quietly but firmly walk toward Futojiko without saying anything.
> Dart our eyes to our wrapped sword (without moving our head, if possible), and linger our gaze upon it for two seconds, then shift our eyes back to Futo.
> Take on a calm but firm and pointed tone.
> "Searching."
> Frown for a couple of seconds, then sign and let our tone and expression soften.
> "Futo, dear, just look at the state you are in..."
> How tall is Tojiko?
> Cover the rest of the distance to Futojiko, if we haven't already.
> "I see...How did this happen?"
> Is Tojiko taller than us?
> Frown.
> "I suppose there is no accounting for lack of taste. I, for one, believe your faces are perfect the way they are."
> Glance at Futo again.
> "...Well, the way they normally are."
> Smile.
> "I only speak the truth. But that aside, I must say that the two of you left quite the wake of mischief in your travels."
> "Be that as it may, once we have returned to the surface, I must ask that we pay the blonde puppeteer a visit, so you two can apologize for giving her such a fright.'
> "I am not sure if that will happen, but it may. It turns out she is a very private magician, and she believed your window-peeking to be an attempt to steal her ideas and secrets. Perhaps learning that this was not your intent will be enough for her to return your gesture."
> Give a slightly sad look.
> "I understand your frustrations, but I also cannot blame someone for being upset if they look up and there are suddenly two strangers peering into their window. At the very least, I think it best if we are the more mature party about the situaiton."
> Smile again.
> "Thank you for your understanding."
> Have a seat next to Futo, so we can fuss over her condition if necessary.
> "So I must say, for as much as I was able to follow your adventure, I do not know too many of the details. What sorts of things have you done today? I do wonder if your day has been as interesting as mine has."
> Give a sympathietic look.
> "Really? That is most unfortunate."
> Take a look over at Tojiko. Now that we're closer, how badly off does she seem to be?
> "Ah, you are indeed both injured! I deeply apologize, Tojiko, I could not tell from the doorway."
> "Very well, if you insist. I do wonder if there is somewhere down here where we can get the two of you cleaned up, once you are physically ready to continue onward."
> "Of course. You still need to regain some energy."
> Frown.
> "Unless there is something else that troubles you?"
> What does she mean by 'neutral ground'?
> Ah, so it's not a known term amongst us? Okay.
> "What do you mean? Do you speak in terms of a propensity for fighting, or more related to those in charge of the clinic?"
> Nod.
> "I understand. I can accompany you when you are ready to leave, then, if you like. I was not harassed in my time searching the city for you."
> Nod.
> "I am not sure why I escaped negative notice, but I am certainly not going to complain. In the meantime, is there anything in the city I can obtain for the two of you while you recuperate here?"
> Give an unsure smile.
> "It seems you are conflicted. I would like to assist you if I can, but I will not force my help upon you if it not wanted."
> "Very well. I will take my leave. But may I make one request of you before I depart?"
> Nod.
> "Thank you. I will not pry into exactly what you are doing; I feel that if you wanted me to know, you would have told me by now. But...I know that despite the best of intentions, certain...conflicts tend to arise. Please remember that all we do is a reflection upon all of us. And, whatever you are doing, please try to avoid antagonizing -that- group with it."
> Grimace.
> "...Then make absolutely sure they are guilty before anything rash is done."
> ...Was something stolen from us?
> Blink.
> "...Was something taken from us? I don't recall missing anything..."
> "As far as I have been made aware, it has been in your possession this whole time."
> Look a combination of confused and regretful while waving our hands in front of us defensively.
> "Ah, no no no! I did not mean to imply you would steal from me! I had simply been told by several people that you had a wrap that looked like a sword."
> Gesture to the wrap.
> "I figured that you had needed to borrow it for some reason and thought little more of it."
> Change our look to one of shock.
> "...A...gift?"
> How common an event is gift-giving in our little family?
> Gently put a hand to our chest.
> "Oh my...thank you, my friends, thank you!"
> What are Futo and Tojiko's personalities like?
> Accept the gift and unwrap it.
YESSSSSSSSSSS
> Admire the cloak some with widened eyes.
> "This...this is gorgeous..."
> Stand up and put it on.
> Spin a little bit to see how it flows behind us.
> "You cannot tell me to not be so grateful if you are about to present me with something such as this!"
> "Yes, this is absolutely splendid! Thank you both so very much!"
> Give Futo and Tojiko hugs where they sit as best as can be done.
> "Please, are you absolutely sure there us nothing I can get for you from the city?"
> Come to think of it, where did Futo and Tojiko get money for their drinks and presumably this cloak?
> What sorts of things do Futo and Tojiko like?
> Put on a thinking face for a few moments, then slowly spread into a small smile.
> "I think I may have an idea or two. I must admit that they are not quick things, though, so I fear I will not be of much assistance in the immediate."
> "Very well. In that case, may I recant the minor adventures I myself had in my search for you today? I have met some interesting people, and I am curious how many you have met yourself."
> How much Gensokyo-wandering have Futojiko done before today?
> Have our seat again.
> "Perhaps not today, but in days past. For example, I visited a mansion to the south, overseen by a scarlet vampire."
> Nod.
> "I must bring you there for a visit some time, then. They have many interesting artifacts from the outside world and other various eras, as well as an unthinkably massive library. It is difficult to see the walls from the center, it is so large."
> "They have what we had and then some. It is possible they have more written works than there were in the entire world at the height of our time."
> "As luck would have it, the vampire matriarch especially desired to meet me, and I seem to have pleased her in our first meeting, so it is likely you would be welcomed as guests if you accompanied me on a visit."
> Smile.
> "It is amusing you mention that. It seems the vampire matriarch fancies herself the ruler of this land. A conversation with her chief librarian suggests the reality is different, though."
> "That is allegedly her ruling philosophy."
> Chuckle a bit.
> "Yes, I suspect the librarian's assessment of the situation is accurate. Should the scarlet vampire try to exercise any semblance of power, she would quickly become re-acquainted with a problem solver."
> "The vampire's manor aside, I also came across an old-style manor in the deep of the bamboo. The architecture is quite similar to what we are used to. It is home to many rabbits, including one that claims to hail from the moon."
> Nod.
> "Yes, to both of you. In terms of finding it, however, someone has helpfully set up directions involving a series of rocks that makes it possible to find. I could not verify the claims of the one rabbit that claims to be from the moon, but she does look substantially different from all of the other rabbits. A delightful individual as well, that one."
> "There appears to be a princess and another high-ranking medic within the manor as well. I was not able to enter, however, because the rabbits were performing some civil revolt. There is apparently a strong living conditions disagreement."
> "We shall see. The disagreement may end amicably soon; at my suggestion, the moon rabbit I mentioned has secured an earth spider for architectural advice regarding the core issue."
> "It may or may not shame them directly, but the costs will be coming out of their pockets. Hopefully this will teach them that if they want such large-scale change in living conditions, they must be willing to work hard for them, rather than expect their princess to simply hand them everything."
> Nod.
> "It is a tough situation for us to approach as we are, I feel. There are many considerations to make, both for them and for us. Ultimately, I feel my minor involvement is what will work out best for us, in terms of establishing positive relations with the local nobles."
> Smile.
> "This is my hope. I would like to meet this princess and her advisor medic some day; I am sure they will be a fount of interesting knowledge."
> "Hmm, who else...Ah! Did you happen to see a small girl in a bucket, higher up in the caves that lead here?"
> "Oh, yes, that. She has since come to, with the help of her earth spider friend. It seems that someone attacked her and took a white-blue wand from her. I wonder if there is a weapons thief on the loose?"
> "It is quite possible. It is also worth noting that the girl's attacker stealthily struck from above, probably using danmaku."
> "Almost certainly. The girl could not tell if her assailant was coming or going."
> Frown.
> "I am beginning to think we may want to report this to the Hakurei shrine maiden. Before that, however, I will want to visit that girl again. If what the girl says of herself is true, and if the two thefts are related, I have a sudden unfortunate suspicion as to the culprit."
> Shake head.
> "Please forgive me, but I would rather not say until we have more information. I do not want falsely accuse someone, or spread suspicion and paranoia without very good reason."
> Look around the area. Is there anyone within earshot?
> "I worry about other ears, not yours. But perhaps we are sufficiently isolated here..."
> Lean closer to Futojiko and lower our voice.
> "I worry that Seiga may be responsible."
> "The girl in the bucket claimed, without prompt, to have taken part in thwarting the plan to bring an army to this land in my name. She also claimed that Seiga was prepared to betray me, and that this army was prepared to betray both of us. The claims are rather...you know, but she brought them up herself after learning who I was, and identified another that assisted her."
> How exactly did that conversation go?
> Did we listen to Seiga's true desires at the time?
> Could she have hidden anything from us?
> And had we heard any traitorous thoughts?
> How much of her desires did we reveal to Futo and Tojiko?
> Look thoughtful for a moment.
> "...Hmm...That is a good point. I do not recall hearing of such plans..."
> Frown.
> "I will have to ask the bucket girl why she made such a claim."
> Nod.
> "It is only fair that we consider all that we know before forming a conclusion."
> Resume our normal seating position and tone.
> Nod.
> "This is certainly possible. We will most definitely want to collect evidence before formally accusing them, however."
> Did Futo really say that last thing? It seems more like something Tojiko would say, given the context.
> How many people did we tell we would be spending the night in the farmer's barn?
> Which invitation was this?
> "There are many layers to consider. Honestly, I am not too comfortable ruminating much more on this without more information from the bucket girl; I do not want us to get heavily focused on one or two ideas, only to learn later that there is strong evidence against them. Misdirected focus makes evidence against unconsidered suspects harder to catch."
> "Of course, this will wait until you are both ready."
> Give a sympathetic frown.
> "Ah, I see. Please forgive my insensitivity. Hmmm...I will question the bucket girl myself, then."
> What time is it?
> Do we have any means of instant long-distance communication with Futojiko?
> "Given how the situation has changed, I believe going on, at least without a good plan, is not advisable. I would prefer your company, for multiple reasons, until we reach a point where it is prudent to split up again, but I also do not want to push either of you too hard."
> Nod.
> "Then you two shall stay here until you are fit for travel again. I will not have you risking harming yourself further."
> "We should still make plans to meet up again later today, I feel. Once you are ready to continue on, can you wait for me at the Hakurei Shrine?"
> "I will see to it that she does."
> Stand up.
> "While you are there, remember the usual courtesies. If she asks for your help with something that is not unreasonable, do so. And should anyone uncouth wander by, allow her to deal with them. Unless, again, she asks for your help."
> Smile.
> "I am truly blessed to have you two at my side. Rest well and enjoy yourselves."
> "Farewell, and good luck. And, of course..."
> Give another little whirl to get the cloak flowing.
> "Thank you so much again."
> Let Futojiko give their final goodbyes, then exit The Felt.
> Head back to the Clinic, with a new bounce in our step.
> How far behind us are they?
> Continue at our current pace toward the clinic, acting like nothing is wrong, but keeping track of how far away this oni is from us.
> How far ahead of us does the crowd stretch?
>Would we be able to make out his desires, or would the crowd be too overwhelming?
> Are there any nearby side roads or alleyways?
>How well do we feel we would fare in a fight against an oni?
> Head into that alley.
> Does the oni have any distinguishing features?
> "I beg your pardon?"
> "Please forgive me, for I am new to this region. What exactly are we going to do? I do not believe I know you."
> "Ah, I see."
> Frown.
> "Your offer is most intriguing. However, as I follow the way of the Tao, I do not carry money on my person, or collect it anywhere else."
>Be thankful that this didn't turn out worse.
>Inventory.
> "Hmmm...I may have a possession or two I could part with, I suppose. Would you have any use for a bundle of incense?"
> "What about a bag of konpeito?"
> Frown.
> "And both together?"
> "With all due respect, it also depends on the volume of information you have available."
> "Hmm, very well. What is my current major concern?"
> "I do not plan on anything of the sort. I do not doubt the truth or pertinence of your information; I was mostly curious how you would answer that question. It gives me a frame of reference for what you know."
> "Now then. Would the incense and konpeita be enough to learn, say, the identity of someone in possession of a weapon that does not appear to belong to them? Or, perhaps, a description, or a travel destination? If none of these, would it be enough to learn the identity of another individual with a missing weapon?"
Oh please please PLEASE let Nue's trident have been stolen. MikoNue dynamic problem-solving duo like whuuuuuut
> Pull out the incense and a bag of konpeito.
> "Is someone else in the city missing a weapon?"
> Put our items away.
> "In that case, has anyone other than this Kay been seen recently with a weapon?"
> "What about a sword with a sun shape on the hilt?"
> "Hmmm....anything of a white-blue wand with wings, then?"
> "Well, I know it belongs to a young green-haired girl in a bucket. I would be highly interested if you have seen or heard anything about it being separated from her."
> Blink.
> "Thank you. I am mildly curious as to what you do know about that wand, then."
> "I see. I suppose you may consider that repayment, since I knew none of that. Fair is fair."
> "Mmmm, has anything notable gone missing in this city today?"
> "Then I must admit I am at a loss for what else I might want to know."
> "Hm?"
> "Very well. May I take this to mean there is nothing more to offer?"
> Frown, then shake our head after a couple of seconds.
> "I'm afraid I do not follow what you mean in regards to the last thing you said."
> "Ah. All right, then. Perhaps we would be best served if I made my concerns as clear as possible. You correctly discerned that I am missing my weapon, and yet you know nothing about it beyond the description I provided, nor are you aware of any thieves in the area. I am thus forced to wonder what you could possibly have to say that is pertinent to my situation."
> Shake head.
> "I only know it was stolen this morning, while I slept. It may be connected to the theftof the bucket girl's wand, but that is merely conjecture at this time."
> "There is a lot of theorizing that can be done, but not much that is concrete."
> "For example, if you were not aware the bucket girl's wand had been stolen, then it seems likely that it was stolen by someone on their way back to the surface. But then, it is also possible that whoever took it was coming to this city and simply managed to hide it on their person."
> "I do not know much of anyone down here, so I cannot speak on motive."
> "Hmm...you did say that both weapons and theft are not common here. I suppose that suggests the culprit was indeed on their way to the surface."
> Raise an eyebrown, then pull the incense and a bag of konpeito back out.
> "Or?"
> Pause.
> "That may also be, but it is hardly the conclusion your presence suggests."
> Pause for another moment, and then slowly hand over the konpeito.
> "...So which is it, then?"
> "Where would these places be?"
> Hand it over.
> Curse inwardly.
> Doesn't Nue have a weapon of her own?
> "I see. May I ask where I can find these individuals? I'm afraid I do not know where the Pressed Rose is."
> "I believe I can do that. Is there anything else you are willing to offer? I fear I am out of possessions with which I would easily part, so I would understand if you did not wish to share further."
> Shake head.
> "Nothing I would give without being absolutely sure of what I was getting in return. I have scant few possessions as it is."
> "I will relay this to my companion who made them. Thank you for your help, and please forgive my rudeness and ignorance."
> Nothing for it. Follow the directions we were given to Nue's place.
> Do we know anything about Nue's thieving ways?
> Make our way to the entrance and listen to the interior
> On second thought, simply enter the establishment, acting all business-like.
> Is the tanuki present?
> How visible is our empty sheath behind the cloak?
> Put on one of our fake-ass politician smiles.
> "Good day, Miss Houjuu. Please..."
> Gesture at the bottle she's fetching.
> "...Do not let me interrupt your tasks."
> "This is the Pressed Rose, is it not? Or is there another one elsewhere in town?"
> Tap a finger to our chin and put on a thinky face.
> "Hmm, I certainly hope that is not the case. I would hate to think I was lied to when directed here..."
> "That is possible, though I correctly identified the name of your establishment, which seems to suggest otherwise."
>How well do we think we'd fare in a fight against several oni?
> Give a sad frown.
> "How unfortunate. I had hoped not to disappoint the young lady in the bucket, but it seems I have failed."
> Are we still at least in the doorway, or is there room for others to maneuver behind us and block off our exit?
> Keep a calm look, but continue to observe the advancers.
> "She did not. But her wand is missing, and I was told this place tends to be a landing site for such things."
> "Very well, then."
> Back out of the doorway.
> How are her hands positioned?
> Which side is she coming from?
> Has she gone airborne, or just dashed forward?
> Are our hands currently full?
>How do we think we'd fare at running away from an oni?
> Quickly duck back and to the left, turning to the left as we do so.
> While turning, grab at our cloak with our right hand. If we succeed in grabbing it, hold it close to our body.
> Run!
> Given our current direction of travel, in which direction is southeast?
> How far ahead is the next intersection?
>Would the crowds be large enough to lose pursuers in?
> We're a smart chappy, we can analyze on the fly. As we flee, keep our eyes darting back and forth ahead of us, mentally assessing how the individuals in the crowd will be placed based on how they are moving when we see them, and plan a path through the resulting open spaces. It's just danmaku, except linear and with bigger and fewer bullets.
> Keep a calm look on our face at all times, as well. We got this.
>Curse our dazzling good looks and distinctive flair!
>Continue running for now, trying not to inconvenience anyone in the crowds too much.
>After a short while, look back and check to see how close the pursuers have become.
>How is our flight speed?
> We can still bemoan everything positive about ourselves that makes us easily identifiable.
> Are our pursuers still audible behind us?
> How is our flight speed?
>Look back only when a convenient opportunity presents itself, i.e a sparse area of crowd
>Continue through crowd, listening for cries of annoyance directed at our pursuers.
> Go around the group to the left.
>How close to the next intersection are we now?
> We presumably still have our forward momentum going, yes?
> How immediately are we going to plow facefirst into something or someone?
>Perform a flight assisted leap over the oni, manipulating our descent if necessary to not land on more oni.
>If possible take a quick look back while in midair.
> Not yet.
> "Apologies! Bill The Pressed Rose!"
> Fly forward several more yards until we're well clear of the crowd and the oni we just knocked over, then, once there's an open space to do so, land and continue running.
> Keep heading forward, dodging around people as need be. Aim for the left turn at the next intersection.
> Is there a left turn visible anywhere ahead?
> Do we have enough open space in front of us to chance a look behind us?
> Take a peek behind us. Maintain the calm expression.
> Do we see anyone from the Pressed Rose?
> Do we see the oni we ran into?
> When we turned around to look, did we have anything immediately in our running path?
> What kinds of buildings are to our left?
> Turn back around so we can get our forward bearings again.
[/quote
>You look ahead to see the crowds have shifted a little, but it should be nothing to worry about. The turn to the right is coming up fast.
>_
> Is there anyone presently between us and the turn?
> Do so and turn down the right-side street, then.
> Are there any immediate alleyways?
> How high are the roofs to our right?
> On which side of the road are the alleys?
> Are the buildings that compose the alleys of the one-story variety?
> Run to and duck into the right alley.
> Take to the air as straight upward as possible, jumping to help the upward momentum.
> Swoop up on top of the first story building to our right, getting out of sight of anyone that would be on the ground in the alley below.
> How flat is the stretch of roofs that run parallel to the street we just ran down?
> Get ourselves in a proper position to fly low along the rooftop, but don't actually start doing so yet.
> Listen to the group that just came into the alley for a couple of seconds.
> Was that second voice asking her question in a genuine tone or a sarcastic one?
> That's our cue, then. Take off flying down the roof line, staying as low as possible to avoid being visible from the street without dragging our clothes on the roof.
> Did it come from directly behind us, or from behind us on the alley below?
> Is our way forward clear enough that we can safely look behind us?
> Take a look behind us, then.
> Turn back around and continue our flight pattern.
> Raise our voice loud enough that the oni behind us can hear.
> "If we must fight, can we at least do so at Kay's?"
> "I must see Kay!"
> When we looked back, how much distance was between us and the oni?
> "It is complicated! I will stop if you are willing to listen!"
> Start slowing down.
> "I was chased unprovoked by those at the Pressed Rose! The collision was an accident!"
> Turn around and slow to a stop.
> Which fist is raised?
> Has she raised it over her head, or more cocked it back behind her?
> How close is she?
> What's our flight acceleration like?
Well, shoot. I kinda wanted to try the Giant Swing again since it worked really well the first time, but I've been dwelling on it and I think the lack of forward momentum is going to ruin our chances at it (at least in the short term). Gonna try something else.
> Put up our arms and fists in front of us in a defensive stance. Tilt our torso slightly so our left shoulder is out on front and our right shoulder is behind, if we have the time.
> As the oni throws her punch, lean sharply to the left, and attempt to block the punch by pushing on her punching arm from the side. Use both hands, and push her arm away from us to our right, so her momentum carries her fist (and hopefully more of her) past us. Aim as far down the arm as possible; shoving at her wrist would be ideal.
> We stumbled away from each other, or just our current position?
> Are we facing her?
> Is she facing us?
> Are either of her legs in grabbing range?
> Is this oni wearing shackles? Don't spent a tempo examining if we don't know.
> Make a dive to grab at her ankles.
> Did she pull away from us to do this?
> How far down did we go before she righted herself?
> How are the two of us positioned now, relative to the roof line?
> Who is the other?
> Back off a bit further down the roof line, but keep our hands in front of us in the same defensive position.
> How far away is she?
> Zoom upward, spreading our feet apart a bit past shoulder width so as to make it harder for the punch to accidentally connect with one of them.
> After we start moving upward, lean forward with our torso a bit, clasp our hand together, and swing them downward in an attempt to hit the oni in the back of the head with an axe handle strike on her way by. It is okay for the top half of our body to be moving forward with the lower half of our body still being flung upward if letting this happen reduces the amount of energy we spend on halting bodily momentum.
> Upside-down in the air is perfect.
> Swoop down with a hand outstretched, aiming at the back of the oni's head. Once we're two feet away from her head, fire a stream of our preferred shot type (arrowheads?) at the back of her head and slow down so we don't collide with her. If we see her starting to turn her head to look behind herself, however, fire our shots early. Tilting her head up is okay to keep waiting on, since she still won't be looking behind her; only fire prematurely with a left- or right-turn.
> Does 'from below' mean below relative to our current perspective, thereby being from our torso level toward our chin?
> Which hand did we use to fire at the back of her head?
> Tilt our head back and to the left, leaning the same way with our upper torso. At the same time, sweep our left arm, positioned more or less up-and-down, left-to-right across our body in front in an attempt to deflect her punching arm to the right. Time this sweep so our arm collides with hers; we don't want to get punched in the arm.
> Float backward long enough to right ourselves back into a proper vertical position.
> As we're repositioning ourselves, sweep our right arm in front of us down-to-up to let loose a vertical stream of arrowheads. Only do this if we can safely sweep our arm and not smack it into the oni's danmaku, however.
> Urgh, didn't expect that from fist shots. Won't make that mistake again.
> Can we at least still see?
> Keep watch of the oni as we give ourselves a small breather to regain some of our senses.
> Which hand is it?
> Has that moment of weakness passed yet?
> How far above the roof are we?
> How quickly can we descent when in an upright position?
> Dodge back and to our left, turning our body to face more toward our current right in an attempt to make our torso a smaller target.
> While moving back and to the left, if we can, use an open right hand to spray a few bullets in the direction of her oncoming fist. Do not leave our hand out long enough to get punched, however; cut the bullets off early if necessary to move our hand and arm out of harm's way.
> How much momentum do we currently have, and in which direction?
> Is her right arm still extended?
> How much forward momentum does the oni have?
> How are our hands feeling?
> How large are her hands compared to ours?
> How much shorter or taller than us is she?
> Keep our backward momentum going by continuing backward, but heading a bit back toward the right as well. While doing so, rotate our body back in the opposite direction so we face more toward our current left. Ideally, we'll move and twist far enough to the right to have her left punch just graze by as well.
> As her fist is coming, try to grab and clamp down on her wrist from above with our left hand. This should be possible if it's coming in at hip height.
> How far away from us is she now?
> Do we know how to teleport short distances?
> How much time and energy do we need to execute the double-spiral rainbow balls of light attack?
> What about the larger glowing bullets that explode into a number of tiny round bullets?
>How familiar are we with the concept of disco lighting?
> Can we also make the same large glowy bullets that DON'T explode into smaller shrapnel bullets?
> If the above is possible, would combining large glowy bullets that explode with large glowy bullets that don't explode be considered unsporting?
> If the above is possible, would combining large glowy bullets that explode with large glowy bullets that don't explode be considered unsporting?
> And if so, would it still be considered unsporting if there was a very clear distinction between them? (say, explodey ones are blue, non-explodey ones are yellow)
FEI that question is just checking for the future while I have it in mind now. If the battle progresses in such a fashion, I would like to go explodey shinies -> non-explodey shinies -> combo shinies. It's a simple fair gameplay difficulty progression.
> Give the slightest of grins.
> "By necessity."
> While speaking, sweep an open right hand in front of us in a circle about two feet in diameter, creating a ring of our shiney explodey bullets to be launched forward and a little bit outward.
> How much cooldown time do we require between waves of such bullets?
> Can we mix up these bullets with other bullets during the cooldown, or does everything stop until the cooldown period is over?
> Once the cooldown has passed, created another circle of glowy explodey bullets in front of us, this one only one foot in diameter. It should still go forward and slightly outward.
> What would happen if we were to run into our own bullets?
> Do the glowy bullets slow down before they explode, or do they just explode with no warning?
> How's her facial expression looking?
> Can we do giant lasers? Or do lasers require our sword?
> Let our cooldown time pass, then create another two-foot-diameter ring of explodey bullets, traveling forward and a bit outward.
> That's an odd thing for someone to say when they wanted to rip our head off for slighting their sister a few minutes ago. What does her tone suggest about the intent of what she said?
> "Thank you! You are certainly no slouch yourself!"
> When the cooldown period ends, fire a foot-diameter ring of glowy bullets, headed forward and slightly outward, that look like the explodey shots but don't actually explode.
> What's the current distance between us?
> Is she rearing back her right fist as usual?
> Is she coming from above, below, or on the same level as us?
> Do we use dagger danmaku?
> Fly back and to the left. Keep ourselves facing forward, though.
> While flying back, swipe our right hand from left to right in front of us to create a forward-traveling stream of dagger bullets.
> What kind of danmaku is this?
> Are the spheres, or petals, or daggers, etc.?
> Blooming flower patters that don't use the petal bullets? How uncouth.
> How much of this is coming toward us?
> Is it traveling faster than we can fly backward?
> Let's find out!
> "Hm!"
> Fly straight backwards for a full second and see how much faster or slower than us the bullets are. We should also be able to get a better bead on what bullets are going where this way.
> From our perspective, is everything in one giant layer? Or does the pattern have depth?
> Are all the bullets the same speed?
> Are there any immediately visible openings?
>As the pattern unfolds do any obvious holes present themselves, such as the inside of a "petal".
> Are the straight lines horizontal, vertical, both, or neither?
>Continue moving backwards, prepare ourself to capitalise upon any openings that present themselves as it unfolds.
>Do they appear to be homing?
> How much space is between the horizontal lines?
> How many horizontal lines are there?
> So if we went full horizontal, we could conceivably fit through the horizontal lines without getting smacked by them? Disregarding the other bullets, of course.
> Are any of the non-straight lines coming right for us, or is it just the straight lines?
> From which direction?
> But NOT above or below?
> So the horizontal lines above and below the ones that are right in front of us seem to be clear or non-horizontal waves of bullets?
> Once this line of horizontal lines passes, is there a second wave of horizontal lines? Or can we not tell from our current position?
> Do we have time to get up to the next highest gap between horizontal lines before we're overrun by the lines?
> Let's do that, then. Head upward while going full horizontal to get through the next highest gap.
> Are either of them headed for us? Logically they cannot both be headed for us if they are passing through each other, unless the angle of intersection is minute.
> How much left-and-right movement freedom do we have?
> Are we completely enclosed on both sides by the convex arcs?
> Which convex arc is closer to being within the horizontal lines?
> Which convex arc is closer to us?
> If they're both within the lines, how are we not completely enclosed on both sides?
> Staying within the vertical space allotted to us by the horizontal lines we're currently going through, bank to the left to get out of the convex scissors.
> In which direction are the stray bullets coming from?
> Do a hard turn to the left so we are parallel to the main large lines of bullets, and fly quickly in that direction to avoid the stray bullets.
> Are there any obvious gaps in the stray bullets?
> These are the locations of the gaps? Or problematic bullets?
> Have the long horizontal waves passed?
> So there are two bullets that are somehow both high and low bullets? Or are the one-high-one-low while lined up vertically?
> Are we at least clear of the main convex wave, or is that still a concern?
> Were the bullets we identified listed in any particular order?
> How much room do we have to maneuver up and down?
> Based on the speed and depth of the horizontal lines, as well as how long we have been at it between then, could we mentally determine if we are still restricted above or below by them?
> Are these stray bullets moving in the same direction as all of the other bullets, or are they aimed more toward us?
> Are they staggered relative to the long lines? Or do they all fall on a vertical plane that is parallel to the long lines?
> Would pictures be acceptable? Or does this all have to be done by text? It's hard to describe verbally what I'm getting at here.
> Actually, maybe we can get by on just text.
> Let's pretend for a moment that all of the bullets are at the same height. Would we be able to draw a straight line through all of them?
Okay, that addresses pretty much all of the long string of following questions.
> Given we are still sort-of-sandwiched between the two long horizontal lines, can we actually go down far enough to go under the high bullets, or up far enough to go over the low ones?
> Let's keep going and head under that first one, then. Slow down a tiny bit to maneuver ourselves better if either the stray bullet or the horizontal line get too close for comfort.
> Oh, well then.
> How about this next mid-level one? Is there enough room to squeeze under it? If not, how about over it?
> Have we been able to see the oni at all during this dodging time?
> Very well! Slip under the next stray bullet, again slowing down if necessary to avoid rushing through and getting smacked.
> Angle our flight path upward and regain a little bit of speed so we go right over the next stray bullet instead of crashing into it.
> We have just the bullet pair left, yes?
> Can we squeeze through the final two?
> Are we out of range of the main convex wave yet?
> Is there room above the upper stray or below the lower stray?
> Nothing for it, then.
> Aim ourselves for the space between the final upper and lower strays, slowing down for control as needed like with the second mid-level bullet.
> How is the position and orientation of this new row compared to the original large straight rows?
> Is it going in the same direction as the other lines?
> Is it at the same height as one of the other lines? If so, which one?
> Is there room between the convex line we're moving away from now and this new line?
> 'They'? Is there more than one line?
> Whatever, we'll worry about the new horizontal lines when we get there.
> Speed back up and make our way further forward to make it beyond the convex wave.
> Is there anything above or below us right now?
> How vertically wide is the incoming convex wave?
> Are they so wide that we cannot fly above or below them?
> Bars? Is the convex wave not simply a line of simple bullets?
> So the convex line is really a bunch of lines stacked on top of one another?
> So they have gaps between them, like the straight lines did?
> What is preventing us from flying above or below the incoming convex wave, then?
> How close is this wave?
> Isn't undodgeable danmaku forbidden?
> Well, we've established we can't go up, down, or forward...are there any gaps in the convex wave behind us?
> Did we see any on our way by the first time?
> 'Both'? Is there more than one convex wave coming at us?
> Is the wave behind us coming toward us?
> Is the wave in front of us coming toward us?
> Are both lines horizontal?
> And there are no sizeable gaps between bullets in either one? That is, we could not dodge these lines by flying forward or by flying backward?
> That would imply one is not direcly behind us. Where exactly are the two waves right now relative to our current position?
> All right. Just to be safe, let's have a quick review.
> From our current perspective, there is a line right in front of us, and a line right behind us. Flying straight forward or straight backward would fling us right into these lines with basically no hope of avoiding them.
> We have determined that it is very unlikely we have the time to fly upward or downward to avoid these lines, as they are quite vertically wide.
> Turning back to the right, which was originally forward (toward the oni) for us, and flying in that directions would make us eat at least one, if not both, lines.
> Turning left, which was originally backward (away from the oni) for us, would give us a chance to avoid both lines.
> Is all of this accurate?
> Is there anything stopping us from turning left and heading that way, like another line of bullets?
> Well, of course we're not going to run away.
> Anyway. There are only six possible directions. Five of them guarantee we will get a face full of bullet. Only one course of action to be had!
> Turn left and begin flying that way. Let's see what our options are this way.
> How's the other arc looking?
> What options do we have to make it not catch up with us?
> Is that a realistic possibility, give our current position and velocity and the line's current position and velocity?
> Are there any other possible dodging maneuvers available that we can tell?
> Given current locations and velocities of ourselves and the line, would we have a better shot of avoiding the incoming line if we changed direction, however slightly?
> Given current locations and velocities of ourselves and the line, in which direction would be the best to turn to avoid the oncoming wave?
> If the arc is coming from the oni, how would we move toward it and away from the oni?
> Is there actually enough time to get above or below the arc? There wasn't when we asked last time. Or was that related to the arc that has already passed by?
> Can we tell how the lines that form the main skeleton of the pattern are doing?
> We flew through one such wave of those lines already, didn't we? Or have we gone back through it at this point?
> Are there any visible at present, given where we are looking?
> So have we been between them the whole time?
> If we have, were they never considered when determining if we could fly over or under the convex waves?
> If we moved toward the line, how would we be dodging it?
> Sorry, user error. That question was referring to the convex line.
> So our options are to run away, to try to fly over or under the wave, which we've established is dangerous, or to try to fly between the bullets, which we've established is even more dangerous?
> Are we fast enough to pull that off?
> How much further back can we go before it's considered a dishonorable retreat?
> Given the current direction we are facing/flying, in which direction is this immediate-issue convex wave coming from?
> Given the current direction we are facing/flying, in which direction is the convex wave that we have already avoided?
> So the convex wave currently coming at us is coming at us from behind?
> In which direction is the oni? Give an estimate if we're not 100% sure.
> Are there any obstacles right in front of us?
> If we plowed straight ahead, would we run into them?
> How wide is the convex wave behind us?
> Is straight forward the direction of dishonorable escape?
> How long is the line, then? More specifically, does it come to an end anywhere near us?
> Is that end to the left or the right of us?
> Is the convex arc's ending point beyond the point of dishonorable retreat? Or does it come up short?
> Our choice is more or less made for us, then.
> Bank to the left, turning a little bit less than 90 degrees so our flight path is still traveling a little bit away from the incoming convex wave, and step on it to get past said wave.
> 'Go too far' in terms of the dishonorable retreat distance?
> So we now can't get around the wave.
> Is it still exceedingly unlikely that we can slip through the wave?
> Is it still exceedingly unlikely that we can get over or under the wave?
> Can we see the wave in any detail from where we're looking right now?