Mirrorverse Yusuke Toplevels!

[bufubulous]

Who; Yusuke or (mirrorverse) Kitsune Yusuke & Anyone around!
What; Open logs for the mirrorverse event
Where; The market, the park, and the mirrorverse
When; The duration of the event
Warnings; None but will update if anything comes up



Bullies should be taught a lesson - Wandering the Market - Mirrorverse Kitsune Yusuke! Replies will come from the journal: paintingthestars - OTA

There was something odd about Yusuke.

Well, a lot of people who knew him tended to describe him as such, but something was a different kind of odd about Yusuke. He seemed slightly unfamiliar with the world around him, for one. Which was odd because he’d been here for months now, and the young man had really gotten quite good at navigating the place. But, instead, he was roaming the city with a light in his eyes like he was experiencing everything for the first time.

Because in all honesty? He was. This was not the Yusuke of this place, though he realized that the one here had something of an interesting life. He lived in the orphanage and clearly was also quite talented at painting. He didn’t paint enough stars, though. Someone should tell him that, the young man had noted to himself once he stopped rifling through the canvases stacked against the wall. He was also free by comparison, there was no Lord Madarame here. No one to boss him around or snap at him to get back to painting when he was behind schedule. If he wanted, he could go where he liked, paint what he liked, do what he liked, without a schedule.

Tossing the glowing orb from hand to hand as he meandered down a street, the young Kitsune felt at least a passing guilt for having switched places with the Yusuke of this world. But… He should be fine, right? It was only for a little while, and he’d never been to this side of the mirror before! There was so much to see! So many things to consider painting, and the sky. The night sky was so very different. It was beautiful compared to the gloom he was used to looking up at.

He wanted to paint the night sky before he went back; he wondered if the other him would mind if he borrowed a canvas and some paint… Surely he wouldn’t, right? From one artist to another, the desire to create should not be stifled!

The kitsune was startled out of his thoughts, though, as he heard something of a commotion nearby. Tilting his head at an angle, he took in the sight of a man berating a child for being in his way. A sharp frown crossed his face, and he traipsed closer with an annoyed aura about him. He hated people who picked on children for simply existing innocently. It wasn’t like the kid meant to get in the way. Rolling the orb between his fingers, he stopped a few feet away before he called upon a little fox-fire and the illusion of several very large oni were manifested menacingly behind the child who had his back turned to him, as though about to charge. The colour drained from the man’s face before he sputtered and ran off like a devil was following him, leaving a very confused child behind. But by the time the child turned, the illusion was gone and all that was left standing behind was a gently smiling young man in a summer yukata, looking absentminded and almost serene as he walked over to pick up a few things the kid had dropped.

Chuckling deeply, as thought slightly amused, he handed them over. “It seems as though he remembered he had somewhere to be. Here you are. You’re not hurt or anything, yes? Good. You should run home soon, it’s getting late.” He straightened as the kid smiled and hurried off, vaguely wondering if he should see about finding the man to make sure the lesson stuck… Or maybe a snack first… Then lessons once the night was a little later, timing was everything you know? Tilting his head thoughtfully as he tried to decide, his eyes glinted yellow in the lamplight. “I wonder what food tastes like here…?”




Admiring the Night Sky - The park - Mirrorverse Kitsune Yusuke! Replies will come from the journal: paintingthestars - OTA

The young kitsune had finally caved and collected a few supplies (a small canvas, a couple paint brushes and tubes of paint) from his other self’s room and stashed it away in a hollowed out tree in the park. He would paint the night sky, to interpret it in his own way and finally feel satisfied that he could paint a normal night sky.

But, for now, he had to wait for the sun to finish setting and for the stars to appear. So the kitsune shifted to his comfortable fox form, a white-coated creature with three tails and markings on its face rather similar to the other Yusuke’s mask. The star ball was carefully balanced on his tails with a practised ease as he took a nice little stroll around the park.

Keen eyes watching the world around him, he slipped behind bushes or under benches if he noticed someone nearby. Sometimes wandering closer to the sparse food stands that smelled rather good, hoping for scraps if he could get them. If not, he moved onward and back towards the tree that he’d hidden the supplies away in, finally deciding on a little nap while he waited for the night sky to reveal itself.

((ooc: Find him around the park or napping under the tree!))



Into the metaverse mirrorverse - Yusuke in the mirrorverse, replies will come from his normal journal: bufubulous - OTA

He most certainly should not have touched the mirror, Yusuke decided, as he stared at the world around him. How foolish of him to have given into his curiosity. He should have known that something bad would happen. It had just been so very odd when it appeared. He’d just been on his way out to meet up with everyone at the hide-out, only to see the mirror and to look at a reflection and know there was something other about it.

It had looked… Sad and… Tired… and hopeless.

Like he used to look in those quiet moments alone where he wasn’t quite up to convincing himself that things were normal and fine with his life. A hand had reached out instinctively to see if the mirror image might copy him, but it didn’t. He’d touched the glass, and then suddenly he was not in the world he’d come to know in the last few months.

The oppressive gloom of the place was heavy in the air. The teen frowned lightly as he took in the unfamiliar sights around him. It was hard to not liken the atmosphere to the metaverse, but… It was something else entirely, a beast of its own. “Where is this…” He murmured, looking one way and then another.

The teen soon discovered going back wasn’t an option granted to him, and he swallowed some anxiety at the fact that he was supposed to meet up with people… Would they realize where he’d gone? Should he sit here and wait to see if perhaps someone else came in through the same mirror? Or-

Then he heard a voice belonging to someone he hadn’t heard in a few months since even before arriving at Aterat. “Yusuke! Where are you?? It’s time to show me your next work” The voice sounded like it was getting closer, as though they were heading this way with purpose. The teen froze for a split second before reaching for that other part of himself, calling forth the thief disguise provided by his persona and feeling some comfort as the mask settled over his face. It was bolstering, gave him a strength in more ways than just combat. A reminder that he wasn’t that Yusuke anymore… This couldn’t possibly be his Sens- the Madarame of his world.

That said, one look at the man as he rounded a corner set off alarm bells in his head. The man approaching, adorned in a gaudy looking gold coloured kimono not unlike the one Madarame’s shadow had worn. If he didn’t know better, he would have thought that was what he was looking at. Stunned into silence, he stared at the man for more than a moment before turning tail and running down an alleyway. If it was his shadow, it would be foolish to try to take it on alone. He could just make out an angry shout behind him, though. “Where are you going?? Damn mangy creature, we had a deal!”

That was… a new insult…

He was wearing a fox tail and mask though, he supposed. Still, he didn’t think on it much beyond that, instead focusing on figuring out what way to go next… Because before long? The teen realized he was rather lost in what seemed like a far more maze-like city than he was used to.

Comments

[paintingthestars]

This woman asked a lot of questions, so he was pretty sure his earlier guess at what kind of person she was must be pretty spot on. The next question he could answer, at least. There were other yokai adept at illusions after all. Kitsune weren’t the only ones. So it wasn’t as though it would reveal too much about his background unless she knew enough about his kind to put certain pieces of the puzzle together. “I have, yes. Ever since I was small, but they have taken a lot of practice to improve on into something as believable as the display you just saw.” Illusions then had been comparable to the drawings of children, attempts at doing what others could do with more skill until he started to get the hang of it and find reasons to use them.

Just when he thought the questions might be at an end, there was another! His stomach grumbled lightly, reminding him that he was planning on getting a snack. “Not here, of course. They don’t just wander through crowded streets, not unless they have some disaster to spread. I saw them sometimes in the forests, going between their gates where I lived before. Do you want a snack? If you intend to keep asking questions, I think we should do it over food. I want to know what things taste like here.” He responded with a more blunt honesty compared to the vagueness about how his ability worked. So he wasn’t from around here either, if what he was saying was true.

Only fine?? His shoulders sagged, and he frowned with a dramatic tone entering his voice. “Only fine, then… I knew the colours were somewhat off! I shall have to refine it further before I try again. Put more thought into it, otherwise that would hardly be acceptable for someone to behold!” Yes he’d have to make the follow up better, it must be well timed and the lighting and surroundings must be picked with care if this was going to do its job. “Hm…? Then it’s a lesson that needs to be refined and adjusted until he learns it. Humans are good at learning, aren’t they? At some point, they have to learn to not be so terrible to those they should be caring for.” Did he say that as though he weren’t human? Oops. Sometimes the honesty just slipped out of the young man, even when he was trying to be careful. Or maybe he just had taken a liking to this human? So there was another clue for the inquisitive young woman.

And he glanced in the direction the man had run, an odd tone in his voice at her comment about revenge. “He could try to take revenge upon me, but he would need to first know what he was dealing with. He didn’t seem like the type to figure things out. I’m good at sneaking away, after all.” He seemed like a dull, lazy sort of human. The young kitsune also didn’t intend to let someone get the drop on him that Lord Madarame had that day in the forest… He would be cautious, but terrible adults needed to be taught lessons. If he had the ability to do that, it seemed only right that he try.

[bufus]

"I see." Though she truly didn't see. How was it possible that he had always had such an ability? It was mildly frustrating that he seemed so unwilling to offer further information on the subject. Now, after having already asked so many questions, she felt awkward about adding more on. Clearly he had little desire to elaborate, which just made her suspicious of him. Was he hiding something? If so, why was he hiding something? "That is quite impressive that you were willing to dedicate yourself in such a way."

Perhaps if she gave him a compliment of some kind he would offer more? That was how the researchers in the lab often acted. They had mentioned that small compliments could go a long way in getting someone to be more corporative. When she was younger she had wondered if that wasn't just a bit underhanded of them, but the more she had worked with her grandfather the more value she had seen in it. Sometimes it took a little creativity to get what they needed from the artificial Persona users.

"I'm afraid I am not overly familiar with what you might mean by between their gates." Her first instinct was to say no, but then she thought back to her previous line of thinking. "Certainly. It sounds as though you could do with one yourself. Besides, I have not tried any of the food here." Not that she was curious (she was definitely curious).

Oh, it seemed she'd hit a chord of some kind by saying only fine. "I apologize. I only said that because I have some experience with illusions myself. I believe anyone without experience would think it was far better than fine. That much should be obvious by the man's reaction." Perhaps adding that part to the end hadn't been as generous. It was strange how dramatic he was acting about the idea that it was only fine. Though...she would feel the same way if someone were to say the same about her own abilities. "So you're not human!" It was said in the voice of someone that was proud of having caught someone out and it was probably the first time her relative young age managed to shine through. Eighteen was a lot younger when you factor in that most of her life had been spent in a lab with her grandfather. With a grand total of zero friends her own age.

"You would leave it all up to your belief that you are good at sneaking away?" That seemed rather dangerous for him.

[paintingthestars]

Compliments were not a bad approach, honestly. The young man preened a little under the positive compliment with a smile. “Thank you! I believe if one is going to create anything, it should be done with care and attention to detail.” He responded with a small gesture, pleased that she recognized that. He took her at her word for saying she understood as well, tossing the ball lightly in the air as he turned to look at the market as he tried to decide what scent to follow. “Then you’ve only just arrived in this place as well? Wonderful, let us see what we can find. I keep hoping I might find something particular that was lacking in that other place.” He added thoughtfully, the food in that place on the other side of the mirror was lacking greatly.

As he started walking, he seemed to circle back to her comment about Oni and their gates. “Oni often reside in a different plane of existence, and move between gates that lead to them. Which is probably for the best. They’re not exactly something who you wish to run into regularly depending on their temperament.” He responded with some obvious knowledge on the subject.

Her apology and following explanation get a particular relief. She did make a good point. Illusions were not something as impressive to those who were used to them, and that man certainly had had the most satisfyingly horrified look on his face. “I see, then! Well, I still intend to keep your opinion in mind. There is always room to improve. I simply need to refine that one somewhat before I use it again in the future.” He nodded to himself, knowing full well it was going to make a return of sorts later that evening, after he’d parted ways from this woman.

He winced at her rather proud exclamation, as it struck him rather late that he had accidentally admitted that. Whoops. Awkwardly, he glanced at her, trying to sound slightly less concerned by his accident than he was. “No, I suppose if I must be honest with you about my blunder, I am not human.” To be truthful, before Lord Madarame he knew far fewer humans than he did other Yokai. It hadn’t been hard for some to figure out he wasn’t human, while others simply assumed he was prone to odd eccentricities.

“I would, yes. If I fail, then that is something else I must improve upon, though I have already learned to be more wary than I have in the past.” He responded with a nod, as though that were the natural response to her question.

[bufus]

Thankfully that seemed to have worked relatively well all things considered. "You're quite welcome. I cannot agree more with that sentiment. Hard work is the only way to accomplish true results when it comes to anything." Hard work and a willingness to do potentially questionable things. That was what her grandfather had taught her. She gave him a rather sharp nod to his inquiry. "Yes. Though I had been in that other place for...quite some time." Longer than she would have liked to have been." She couldn't think of a reason to argue with his decision to try to find food so she simply followed his lead. "Anything in particular you are interested in trying?"

For her part she really couldn't think of anything in particularly. Truth be told she was...interested in everything. Not that she wanted to admit to that. It felt rather childish to be so interested in such things. "I see. That's quite interesting to learn. I'm afraid I'm not particularly familiar with them beyond what myths have said." Which hardly meant they weren't real. "My grandfather would probably be quite fascinated by it."

She gave him a somewhat forced smile to further attempt reassurance. There was a stiffness to it, something that made it seem almost as if she were rather unused to smiling genuinely (she was). "There is indeed always room to improve. I would be curious to see how your illusions work." Though it seemed as though he would be hesitant to allow such. Still, she had been victorious in getting some sort of information out him!

"Then what are you?" That had taken up the entirety of her attention now.

[paintingthestars]

“Rather dreadful place to have been compared to this. I do feel rather bad for having snapped up the opportunity to switch… But this is a truly beautiful place by comparison, I couldn’t help myself.” He responded with a small sigh, glancing skyward for a moment before he focused on her agreement concerning food. “I should like to see what any number of things taste like in this world compared to the other, but I admit I have a particular craving for azukimeshi or maybe aburaage if any place here might have it.” He responded with an eager growl of his stomach. Some things were the same between alternate versions of people, it would seem. But food tasted better when you were hungry!

“The stories often get things wrong, as hard as they try.” He responded with a soft chuckle, if only because it was sometimes rather amusing the differences that there were. Sometimes it was easy to let them be wrong, especially if it meant things were a little safer for the yokai in question. Though he was sure some humans would feel rather annoyed by the fact… If only some of the stories about Kitsune that mattered were wrong, he might not have ended up in the situation he was in. “Your grandfather likes stories about yokai, does he?”

“Perhaps after a snack I will show you some other illusions. I should really practice for the next, anyway.” He responded with a lighter tone, noting the somewhat forced smile on the young woman’s face with a curious expression. Sometimes a forced smile was a rather… worrying thing. They hid true motives, after all. Though he had to admit, he somehow he got the feeling that it was something else.

The very direct question was actually rather admirable. She was getting right to the point! But, instead, the kitsune tilted his head again. The light catching his eyes in just such a way that they glinted. “You know, most yokai capable of taking human forms to blend in among humans do so for a reason. They do not naturally offer what they are freely.”

[bufus]

"I..." she shifted slightly, clearly debating with herself if she wanted to admit the following to a stranger. Eventually she came to the conclusion that since he had said it, there was nothing wrong with her saying it as well. "I cannot disagree. There was something very wrong with that place. I feel as though the people here may not have a proper understanding of how lucky they are." Even if this wasn't their world of origin either, they still had it better than those stuck in that mirror realm. "If the other me is anything like me at all, she will be fine over there." That was what this Mitsuru told herself to make herself feel less wrong about having jumped at the opportunity to take her place outside. If they were alike in any way, then that Mitsuru would certainly be able to summon a Persona and defend herself, right? Perhaps she wouldn't be quite as good at it (that was to be expected) but at the very least she should be capable of not dying. Though...a tiny thought crossed this Mitsuru's mind that if she did happen to perish...would that mean she would get to stay here? If that was how it worked then perhaps she could even find a way to return to her world of origin. It seemed as though finding answers would be much easier in a place such as this.

Ah, but her mind was brought back to focus with his mention of food. She blushed as her stomach let out a low growl indicating that his suggestions sounded good to her. "I have not had aburaage in...quite sometime." That was her way of saying it sounded very good. Admitting that it sounded like an amazing treat that she really wanted just seemed a bit too childish.

"That's not too unexpected to hear," she responded with a little nod. It made sense that stories of yokai weren't quite accurate. After all, much of what people claimed to know came from oral traditions, and those often became jumbled over the years. Besides that, there had never been true proof presented about the existence of such things. The world was all about evidence now and without that, well, myths fell into just being thought of as myths. She hummed contemplatively at his question. "My grandfather appreciates that a world beyond that of human understanding exists." Which seemed like a much more simple way of explaining that they had seen that there was something beyond what humans knew of.

"That would be quite generous of you." Given how reluctant he seemed to be share much of anything. Especially when considering he followed it up with evasion of her question. "I see. Then what would you want as a price for an answer?"

[paintingthestars]

“That is a good way of putting it…” He responded with a little hum. It almost made him feel a little better about his decision, even if a part of him still knew it was probably wrong to have dropped a human in the middle of all that. Possibly unprepared for such a world. “I believe with this odd situation, they will at least be aware of that now.” He wondered if this would be a onetime occurrence, though. Or if people would ever consider switching again one day, in light of the discovery of those who were trapped in that unfortunate place over their own world.

“Nor have I!” the young man responded in a slightly woeful tone. “That other place hasn’t the best or flavourful selection of foods, and my favourites were lacking. I would feel twice as luck to find either here.” He continued with an eager tone. Really, the foods mentioned were another small clue as to the yokai’s true self. Little slips of lore that he didn’t really realize considering he was so focused on the idea of food at the moment. The growl from Mitsuru’s stomach gets his attention easily enough. “Let us look and see what these vendors have, then! Perhaps we shall be fortunate enough to stumble upon some.” He gestured, leading over to the stalls and taking in the scents with a curious expression. Looking for something familiar….

“Your grandfather sounds like a wise man.” Yusuke responded with a curious tilt of his head. He almost wondered if the man would see through things more easily than his granddaughter was. Even in his world there were less and less humans every generation who knew or believed the old stories, in the presence of yokai, spirits of any kind really. Sometimes he worried the gods of shrines would wither away with less belief, and his that his own kind would dwindle into obscurity. It almost seemed like humans with a sense of spirits and the otherworldly were going extinct as well. It was sad…

Mitsuru’s comment is met with a smile. “It should be fun. I have not had someone to see and enjoy them for what they are in some time.” Most of the time they were used to teaching humans a lesson, like that man earlier, but a little light fun would be nice, too. He would have to think of a good one for this young woman, something beautiful, perhaps.

A price for an answer? What an interesting idea… “Perhaps the cost for that would be considered too high for a human?” He responded with a glint that hinted at mischief as he waved a hand dramatically, the ball glinting lightly. “Making deals with some kinds of Yokai can be a bad idea for humans. Surely you know some stories.” He’s not being serious, of course. It’s a bluff, but an important one. Other Yokai would absolutely take advantage of this young woman’s curiosity. She’d make a fine meal for the more predatory sort. Yusuke himself had no interest in those things, he only wanted to pursue the beauty that could be found in art. Be it illusions or painting. “But in this case, you seem like you possess a particular intelligence, so I believe you could figure the answer out if you spend enough time with me. Join me for this meal and allow me to show you more of my illusions and perhaps you’ll glean the answer.”

Basically, the price was spend some time with the yokai who wanted snacks and company and she could take a stab at figuring it out if she really wanted.

[bufus]

"To be frank, it reminded me of a place I have been," though that was all the 'frankness' she was going to offer up: the simple comment that it did remind her of somewhere else she'd been. Specifically, the wrongness of it all reminded her quite a bit of Tartarus, right down to the fog. However, there seemed little point in bringing that up with an alleged yokai. Or with anyone who hadn't been there. Her grandfather was quite particular about his desire to not share their findings with anyone else. Lately he had become so secretive that he even insisted they keep their more recent plans from her father. Which...no, no. She was not going to question things. After all she had seen how disappointed he had been with her father's questioning. She was not going to be the second person to disappoint him.

"Then perhaps you can think of it as another lesson?" It seemed as though he was rather focused on teaching lessons after all. "Perhaps it will give them more cause to appreciate what they had here." It didn't occur to her to think that their others might switching again by choice. Perhaps because she herself would never make that choice, so she simply assumed another version of herself would not either.

"It was strange how...empty everything tasted." Until his mention it hadn't truly occured to her just how strange that was. Why precisely were things lacking in flavor so much there? In truth she wasn't much of a food enthusiast, certainly nothing like the yokai seemed to be. However, she could certainly tell when something lacked flavor and everything there did. It acted as sustenance but it was hardly fulfilling. Still, she was quickly distracted by his compliment to her grandfather. She smiled proudly.

"He is indeed! He's a scientist though, so most of his work involves trying to find proof to support his theories. He is however someone who never discounts anything as being possible. Not after all we have uncovered." She gave a nod at his comment. "Is that so? Do you not practice with your own kind then? Did you not have a teacher of some sort?" It was not as though she knew how his society worked and he still hadn't given her a specific species.


"I do. But as you have already noticed, I find myself curious." And so she was willing to take a risk or two. At his suggestion though she gave a nod. "I do enjoy a challenge." And she had yet to meet one she couldn't best. This one simply meant she would have to hone her focus in even more on what he was doing. What traits could she pick out so far of this strange boy? He cast illusions, seemed focus on teaching lessons and perhaps playing tricks on others? That last one she would have to try to find out more to confirm. It stood to reason that illusions and trickery went hand in hand though. He also seemed very focused on finding himself some snacks, though perhaps that was simply due to the lack of taste in the food on the other side? "Are lessons all you do with your illusions? Or do you ever find yourself experimenting more with more entertaining uses?"

Perhaps she could start with a few questions now as they headed towards a search for snacks.

[paintingthestars]

Somewhere she had been before? Oh, dear… That didn’t sound particularly fun at all to the kitsune. There were realms, of course, where some Yokai dwelt that were not entirely dissimilar to the place they had just come from… But he had lived in the forests, under far more pleasant skies than the ones in that other place. “You have experience with such places already? That sounds quite unfortunate for you, even if it perhaps gave you some prior experience with dealing with such a place.”

The idea that he treat this as a lesson for his other self didn’t sound particularly incorrect, not really. It seemed likely that most would take things for granted if they didn’t know what the alternative might have been if they had been just slightly more unlucky… “A lesson for him… I like that line of thought.” He responded finally, with a small nod. It made him feel… slightly less guilty about the whole ordeal and his decision to stay long enough to paint the sky. He only hoped that the young man would handle being in such a place well, but… If they were the same person on some level, surely he’d be fine? The young kitsune had managed to get by without too much difficulty for all this time, after all.

Better to focus on the food. “It was terribly disappointing! Even when hungry, the food didn’t taste much better, so bland and dull.” He frowned at the memory. Yusuke was not going to look forward to going back to that! He wondered if he could… secret some food away in his pockets to take back, if it would make the return with him? Something to think about later, the kistune decided.

“How wise and rare for a man of science to not rule such possibilities out. So many seem sure that such beings like myself couldn’t possibly exist that they would deny a yokai to their face should they run into one, to their own detriment or not.” He responded with a surprised and pleased tone. Yes, Mitsuru’s grandfather sounded like an interesting human indeed. No wonder she was such a curious person herself, to have had such an influence in her life. “I have noticed that about you, certainly. It is an admirable quality, if dangerous, to risk with some yokai.” The young man agreed with her reply.

Still, it would be an interesting and slightly amusing challenge for him to watch her tackle. She seemed to be taking it seriously already, after all. If she didn’t figure it out by the end of the evening, he would probably reveal the truth to her in his own way… But it would be more interesting like this, and gave him company in searching for food. Though her question had given him some pause, while he tried to think of a way to answer. “I would if I were able to, but I have unfortunately been rather cut off from my kind for quite some time due to some circumstances I found myself in.” Did he mean that other world or something else? It was hard to say.

“They are the easiest way to teach lessons, or to warn some humans away from a place they should not be… but I do use them simply for entertainment at times. Making displays for particular yokai events often fall to my kind, like the lights for the night parade or for other ceremonies. Though I have not been able to join in for quite some time… Then sometimes younger humans wander a little too far into the forest from home, and they need to be occupied until found to keep them from ended up running into something less kind.” He responded with a small smile as they walked, still eyeing stands as they began to pass them as he looked for something delicious to eat. “In that other place I sometimes tried to create an illusion of the night sky as I remembered it, but… It never quite matched the beauty, or perhaps that world dimmed it in a disappointing fashion at my skill level.”

[bufus]

"I do. The place my familiarity lays is not quite the same, but it was close enough to leave me feeling less unsteady than most would. I assume my other self will feel the same." Or so she would hope at least. It might be a tad disappointing if her other self found herself lost and afraid in such a location. Weakness like that would be quite a strange thing to see on her own face. She shook her head though. "I would not agree with it being unfortunate, it was a valuable experience that taught me quite a lot." There was no need for any sort of sympathy towards her experiences in Tartarus or the Dark Hour.

"I thought you might," in a very strange way she was proud she had assumed correctly. Though, it was assuming the motives of a yokai and not a human. That was probably a bit different than assuming the motives of a human correctly. "All we can do is have faith in our other selves to learn and grow from this experience."

She moved a hand to her chin thoughtfully. "I found that rather strange, truth be told. The food looked fine in some instances, yet the flavor held nothing at all. I am somewhat curious as to how that is possible." What about the food caused that? Was it where it came from or was it something beyond that? Did that place cause food to lose it's flavor?

"My grandfather rules out no possibility. After all we have seen it would be foolish to do so," her brow furrowed and she shook her head. "There is much more to the world than most realize. Though I often wonder if it is not perhaps that most do not want to realize it." The world could be quite terrifying when one accepted all there was to it. "Why would it be dangerous?"

Mitsuru took just about everything seriously, even more so than her counter which probably said quite a lot given how serious her counter was. She made a thoughtful hmm'ing sound at his comments and tilted her head. "Do you mean that other world we found ourselves in?" It was all she could think of him meaning.

"You have events?" Why was that surprising to her? Immediately she felt embarrassed in regards to having asked such a blunt question. Therefore she chose to move on very quickly from that subject to the final statement he had made. "Perhaps it is not your skill level, perhaps you are correct that the other world dulls things. It might explain what happens to the food."

[paintingthestars]

“Is that so…? A more positive spin on a situation that would otherwise be seen as unpleasant.” He could appreciate that himself, given how little choice could be had in a matter outside of one’s control. It was quite interesting though, and he wondered what her circumstances had been… “You must be quite strong for such an outlook, though I dare say you may be correct… A lesson in survival in a similar place to the one we’ve been dealt probably made your time there somewhat easier.” He supposed he could say the same, if only when combating the disappointment and strain that being somewhere so stifling could be.

Even if he still wondered how their other selves would fare, it was nice to think of it in such terms. Her pride in having come up with a good way to look at the switched situations at least did settle his concerns some… And it would be interesting to find out the results, as surely they would know sooner or later. His other self seemed so very odd to him, so alike and yet… different in ways he couldn’t quite understand. Different abilities, while also some similar, it made him wonder.

“That is likely… Much exists under the noses of humanity, that they never would guess could be there. I would say some may be due in part to the advancements of the world and the unfortunate departure of the stories of yokai not being so widespread or commonly shared. Your Grandfather sounds like an exception to the more frequent views on such things. You are lucky to have had such guidance. What does he study specifically?” Yusuke asked, wanting to hear more about this seemingly wise man. What motivated him? What might have caused him to be so open-minded where others might not have been?

Her question gets a sidelong glance… Oh dear… It reinforced the idea that not everything was shared as often as it should be. “Some Yokai would happily use it as an opportunity for a quick meal, of course. I’m more fond of other foods, personally, but some are far more drawn to human kind or their souls when it comes to a delectable meal.” She did seem the confident sort with dealing with those seen more as monsters than mischief makers, at least if her thoughts on that other world were anything to go by… Still, it only seemed right to point it out. Who knew how many other yokai might find themselves in another world like he had, and take advantage of potential prey?

“I very well may, though that other world would count as a separation from my kind as well.” He responded vaguely, a frown gracing his features finally, as the question was not one he wished to answer. Less because it might be a dead giveaway and more because it was an unpleasant memory and situation to explain. That said, if pressed, then he would have to answer honestly for the sake of their little game.

“We do!” He rushed out rather quickly himself in favour of shifting the topic. Grand, beautiful events and ceremonies. Depending on the place and the yokai involved, they can be quite a lot of fun as well!” He responded with a more excited flourish of the hand holding onto the starball. “Though the Night Parade is often referred to slightly differently by humans, so you may recognize it as ‘the night parade of one hundred demon.’” It wasn’t inaccurate, perhaps, where some yokai were concerned concerning his earlier comment... But for those who were not as such to be likened to a demon also seemed a tad inelegant to the Kitsune.

Oh… Yusuke liked that hypothesis quite a bit! That it might be the world itself and not his own lacking talent! “The world does tend to constantly have a rather dark and oppressive atmosphere, you may be on to something!” He responded with a hopeful expression, that perhaps it was simply the way of things… But then, “I wonder if it’s a problem that could be corrected some how…”

[bufus]

"I appreciate you saying so." Though there was a hint of suspicion in her tone. Why was he giving her such compliments? In her experience with working with he grandfather, people who gave so many compliments often wanted something. At least that was what he had said about those below him that tried to pepper him with compliments in order to gain his favor. That was what she had always assumed would be the case with other students who had tried to gain her favor. Too often she found herself assuming that they simply wished to get special treatment at a school owned by her family. Luckily she had not had much time to contemplate her lack of friendship. "Though, I would say it has less to do with strength and more to do with experience." She did have quite a bit of experience traversing through dark and foreboding places.

"Perhaps it is best that they do not know though. Knowledge is often intertwined with power and fear." Who knew what humans might do if they all believed completely in the myths and legends of old. Her grandfather believed that if too many knew of what they had discovered there would be mass panic. It would be easy to see something similar happening if yokai were revealed to be real. Panic and perhaps a desire to learn how to capitalize on such mythical power. It could be quite a disaster. She put a hand to her chin and rubbed it thoughtfully at his question. "Most of our research is kept strictly confidential. However..." she trailed off as she seemed to consider if she should offer up more information. Perhaps she could say a few things. "Initially his focus was on the study of space and time. His research lead us to the discovery of an entirely different world than the one humans know of." So, she did in fact know of how much there was existing under the noses of humanity.

"I see. I suppose I should be rather grateful that you are not the soul devouring type then." Perhaps it was arrogant of her, but she felt as though she might be able to hold her own should he have turned out to be that way. "I see. Then you were separated from your kind before arriving in that world?" Since he did not seem opposed to her questions yet she pressed on.

"Hyakki Yagyō. Most myths spend a great deal of time emphasizing how humans should stay indoors during the parade lest you be spirited away. Though, I suppose it makes a great deal of sense that we would see it very differently. Would such a thing happen if a human were to stumble upon the parade?" She found herself somewhat curious if there was truth in the myth or if it was simply a tale told to keep humans from their festivities.

"It is only a theory, but it does seem to have considerable evidence behind it to suggest it might be worth more investigation. Perhaps it has a strange way of corrupting everything. As for correcting the problem...we would first need to determine more about it."

[paintingthestars]

Yusuke, rather like the one who resided here, tended towards being more truthful than anything. It was less a compliment to gain trust so much as an observation that he let slip out easily by nature. “I see…” He responded, though, wondering if she was being modest concerning her abilities. It seemed likely enough, because that other world was such a strange place to have to live… He found himself rather lucky most times, given his survival was mostly based on mischief and trickery by nature of Kitsune. She didn’t seem the sort, not really.

“True enough… And with the way the world has progressed, I dare say knowledge of yokai being real could produce some unfortunate situations with modern advancements on the side of humans.” He commented thoughtfully, though sometimes he felt bad for the unsuspecting humans that wandered a little too close to the less friendly of his kind. They always met such tragic ends… And then there were the sensitives who attracted them, plagued by Yokai who sensed or smelled the excessive amount of spiritual energy. But on a whole, for all humans to believe in them could be both a blessing and a curse.

“I am not. There are too many other delicious foods to be enjoyed, after all!” He smiled widely, a genuine tone at least. Though his expression turned thoughtful a moment later. Her questions seemed to be continuing to prod at his current predicament back in his own world. “Yes, that would be the case… There are some yokai who are tied to deals rather easily if they were not cautious enough when humans were near.” And honor bound to uphold their end of a deal, even the ones prone to mischief.

“That depends on what yokai notices that there is a human in their midst first.” He responded, folding his arms lightly. “Some would indeed sweep the human away to be a part of the festivities in a less than pleasant way… While others might warn them away if they weren’t the kind that preyed upon humans and didn’t wish the procession to be disturbed.” Chuckling lightly, he thought back to a few he’d attended years ago. “That said, there has been the odd human who joined the parade through their own trickery and simply enjoyed themselves by blending in. The more spiritually strong and those who know the charms to mask their humanity. A foolish risk to take, but interesting nonetheless.”

He nodded, supposing that Mitsuru was probably correct. “Perhaps that is something to test further once we’re returned to that place.” Not that he was looking forward to going back, but it seemed inevitable. The him that belonged here couldn’t possibly be kept there permanently…

[bufus]

"I can assure you it would." Her own experiences with how the researchers around her grandfather operated assured her of that much. After all, they hardly hesitated to experiment on her. She could only imagine what might befall creatures with no connections at all. Humans were a crafty sort, always with an eye towards advancement. If they were able to take anything from such powerful creatures, they would try to find a way. Either way, she imagined it would not be pleasant for both sides if the truth were found out.

"I see. Which yokai are those? The ones that are tied to deals rather easily?" Surely it would not be the kind he was, but perhaps if she got him to list some it would narrow the choices down on what he might actually be. She was still rather curious on that little fact.

"I see. That does seem like a foolish risk to take. What would a human even gain from joining in such festivities?" Was there some sort of power to be gained from it? Or were there truly people foolish enough to do it simply for fun? That seemed utterly ridiculous.

"Perhaps..." she frowned. "Though I must admit I do not particularly wish to return."

[paintingthestars]

It was sad in a way, to hear that certainty in her voice… Made him wonder about her experiences. At the very least, her actions had not indicated that she was a potential threat. Even if she was, it was a little late in the conversation to have considered that… Silly kitsune that he was. Instead, he’d let his curiosity lead him and taken a liking to the young woman.

“The ones who don’t think of humans as an enemy or a meal on sight, really. It’s easier to gain their trust and get the upper hand when they don’t see you as a threat on sight. Easier to best them at contests, or to steal something they cannot be without.” The kitsune responded with a small tilt of his head. He has a feeling she’s looking for a more precise answer here, but it was a bit of a long topic.

The kitsune agreed, it was a foolish risk to take… But humans did seem to love to take risks that weighed more heavily on the danger side rather than the reward. “That depends, really. Some, I presume, do it for the excitement, as some humans are prone to such folly… Others for a prize of some kind. We do have contests for them now and again, valuable magical talismans granted to the winner. Usually limited in use, but enticing all the same.”

The frown on Yusuke’s face indicated much the same, really. “Nor do I… But I expect we’ve been dealt the less lucky hand than our counterparts on that front.”

[bufus]

"I see," she said with a little sigh. Well, that had not worked out quite how she had hoped it would. "What would you say are some of the most friendly towards humans of your kind?" Maybe this question would go better! It was more specific, easier to narrow it down.

"You think some do it simply for the...thrill?" How ...well, yes, he was probably right now that she thought on it. Some humans did push things too far simply for that sort of thrilling reward. In a way she supposed she could count her grandfather among those. He was pushing the boundaries of that other realm every day simply for the reward of knowledge and potential power. Despite the obvious dangers of doing so, he still pushed on, believing the reward from each new fact he uncovered was enough to make it worthwhile.

"A physical reward at least seems more logical. I imagine if my grandfather knew of that he would have me investigate." It was quite logical that he would not go into a situation like that himself. He lacked the Potential, which would mean he would be in inordinate danger. She however could certainly take care of herself!

"Perhaps. We shall see when we return." It felt inevitable that they would, even if she wished it were untrue.

[paintingthestars]

“Hmm… That is a good question, though I believe those considered the most friendly are those who tend to reside in houses among people. Zashiki Warashi, for example, the guestroom child, is often good luck and only plays minor pranks on humans. Harmless tricks or disturbances, very childlike.” He responded, tapping his chin thoughtfully as he came to the conclusion. But given he described them as children, and he was young but not quite that young, it was unlikely that this yokai was one of those.

Yusuke smiled a little as she questioned him and her expression seemed to give way to the realization that humans would do just that quite easily. Perhaps she had some experience with someone like that. “Humans are funny creatures like that, in my experience. Though yokai can be just as foolish in their own ways, in that we’re all alike.” Curiosity and interest, looking for excitement or answers, they weren’t so different on that level.

“Would he?” That was interesting, but also potentially unfortunate for Mitsuru. What if she ended up on the wrong side of a yokai, more cunning or powerful than she could handle? That seems terribly irresponsible for an adult, even if he had felt respect for the man before. “Are you well-equipped to deal with something like a hungry or annoyed yokai, I wonder?” He digs himself now, between curiosity and something like concern born of his own bad experience with adult humans.

[bufus]

"That's not what you are though, is it?" He seemed like he played pranks, but he didn't seem as though childlike would be fit him as a description. Perhaps she should have spent more time studying the myths and legends of her own home. Between school and her grandfather's whims she had little chance to pursue things of her own choosing.

She made a thoughtful humming noise as she thought about his statement. "Strange to think there might be more similarities between us than we might otherwise note." But perhaps not surprising. The tales she did know often gave yokai certain human characteristics; such as a drive for revenge or the ability to love.

She blinked at his question and seemed a bit perplexed on how to answer for a moment. "I am." What she ended up choosing wasn't quite an answer though....hmmm. "Perhaps if you tell me what you are, I can tell you what I am." What had he said earlier about deals? Oh well, that was out the window.

[paintingthestars]

“It is not, I’m afraid.” He responded to her question with a not quite apologetic smile, having realized what she was angling for. A way to narrow down her options on what he was… It was a good way to go about it, but he also wasn’t about to simply give her the answer like that. Though… He was pretty sure it wasn’t too hard to figure out if one knew the stories. His favoured foods, the starball that he carried, being easily tied to a deal… Perhaps she was the kind of human who hadn’t had such stories shared with her. That was unfortunate, at least as far as their game went. It made him realize that she might never win… Which, despite knowing it made him the winner, was a little disappointing.

“I suppose it’s hard to imagine, given our different shapes and abilities, but I’m sure the similarities are greater than our differences at times.” He commented with a small shake of his head. It was probably just slightly more complicated when you factored in the ones that preyed upon humans… Though he could also point out that humans preyed upon each other in their own ways.

There was something rather amusing at how easily what he’d said about deals had been tossed aside to propose one to him, but he couldn’t really blame her either. “What you are is human, that much I can tell from your sight and scent alone.” He responded with a tilt of his head, eyes glinting yellow slightly before he finally nodded. “But I suppose if we adjust the terms to: I’ll tell you what I am, if you explain the abilities you possess that give you the capability to deal with yokai, who might be dangerous.” It was all about the wording. She could easily simply state her humanity with the earlier terms. This was more… specific to ensure the Kitsune learned what he wanted in payment for sharing what he was.

Holding out a hand, he continued. “Do we have a deal?” He at least had the decency to make it official, and to give her a chance to back out should she have second thoughts.

[bufus]

“Too bad," she said with a sigh. "I believe I should have spent more time on myths and legends. It's not like me to be at such a loss." There was a hint of embarrassment to her tone that she felt slightly ashamed to let slip through. It seemed like it should have been something so much more simple than it was and yet here she was struggling to try to place what myth he himself came from. Frustration was starting to mount in her in terms of their little contest. Losing was also not something she was used to. Or fond of.

"That would make a bit of sense given we both exist in the same locations." Perhaps they did not come from the same places precisely, but they both ended up in the same world. It would make sense that they were similar and that they influenced each other in some ways.

"That seems a bit unfair," she said with the shake of her head. "For you to be able to tell that much with only my scent." She contemplated the revision to her suggestion and nodded in agreement. She could see what he was trying to do and she respected it. It was clever and something she might have done had he been the one to suggest a deal with so little specifics. "Alright. We have a deal then. Do we have to do anything to seal this deal?"

[paintingthestars]

Yusuke could tell she was more than a little frustrated with the fact that she couldn’t figure it out, but it tied in to what he’d said earlier. The stories of yokai weren’t taught or told nearly as much as they used to be… The times had changed, and much was being forgotten or ignored. “I would put the blame more on those who failed to share the stories less and less with each generation, more than putting it entirely on yourself.” He responded with a small tilt of his head before shaking it. “But now that you realize the information you lack, I believe the only answer is to learn, is there not?” She was a smart human, clearly. The sort used to knowing things, inquisitive enough to ask or to seek answers herself.

A deep, slightly surprised chuckle escaped the kitsune at the accusation. “Can it really be called unfair if it’s something of a natural sense? I cannot help what I am and what comes naturally to me any more than you can.” He did have advantages, though. That much could not be denied. He was glad that she agreed to the deal, though, without trying to twist the terms at all in response to his own. “I believe humans shake hands to solidify deals, do they not?” He responded, holding out a hand again. He wasn’t going to ask for blood or anything like that, Mitsuru. Besides that, Yusuke tended to be a yokai of his word. More often honest than not, he was more honest than he should be.

[bufus]

"I prefer taking more responsibility than that," she said just a bit more harshly than she otherwise would have intended. Responsibility was a huge deal for her with her grandfather often focusing on her needing to be responsible and prepared to carry on his legacy one day. "You are right though, it has been made apparent that I should look into learning more about this subject." She heaved a sigh. "It makes it even more unfortunate that we will return to that other world." From the little she'd already taken in of this world there was a library filled with knowledge she could spend an eternity engrossed in. Having to return to that dismal other place seemed even more disappointing now.

"I suppose not." She admitted a bit reluctantly. He was depressingly correct about it not precisely being unfair given that he was just born that way. "They do," she took his hand firmly in her and shook it twice before letting go. "We have a deal then." One she assumed she would be the one to go first and so she she began. "I have the ability to summon something we call a Persona. Her name is Artemisia. To put it as simply as I can, a Persona is a physical manifestation of one's inner thoughts. Being able to conquer one's inner thoughts and tame them into a Persona is a natural ability to some but an artificial one for others. To control one you must have a strong enough will to overpower it and then use it for your own power. I have had the ability to summon mine since I was very young and have used her against many Shadows." She realized quickly that Shadows would mean nothing to him and so she quickly added on: "Shadows are monsters that appear during the Dark Hour, they feed on unconscious human minds during this time. Shadows are created from human emotions, usually negative ones. Shadows have varying types of bodies but they all wear a mask of some sort. The small types are the most common and they're rather easy to deal with. They often are capable of using elemental magic of one particular type. There are also larger ones that are able to strategize to some degree and that often posses a number of different attacks. My grandfather has sent me out to gather considerable data on both types."

[paintingthestars]

Yusuke found the harshness in her response a bit surprising, blinking in surprise. “Hm… If you wish.” He had been attempting to be kind there, but it seemed he had struck some kind of nerve… How curious. Though, given her description of her grandfather thus far… Perhaps she had taken it as a slight against the man. How odd that she would rather shoulder blame than admit that it didn’t fall entirely upon her shoulders. Though he had to admit, her education would likely not be an easy one now. “True enough, that world was rather lacking in its resources alongside its abysmal selection of food.”

He withdrew his hand once she shook it, feeling satisfied with that much for their agreement. It seemed a safe enough deal, and one that she seemed keen to deliver on if the explanation she launched into was anything to go by. The kitsune listening with a great deal of focus. So she had the ability to summon something to fight for her, that would indeed be useful in both self defence and offence if the situation called for it. Not to mention a surprise to Yokai, who might approach her for less than pure reasons. Few humans possessed such abilities, especially in the modern world. Even those who held contracts with yokai for their services were rare enough.

And shadows… Sounded not entirely unlike some Yokai. “I see… So between this persona of yours, and these shadow things you speak of, you certainly would not be on an uneven footing with most yokai.” He responded, tapping his chin lightly. “I suppose I have been concerned about that front for nothing. My apologies for underestimating a human.” He added with a little gesture, before a curious expression crossed his face. He had seen his other self, the one who belonged in Aterat, call upon something on occasion. It was hard to not wonder if it was something like that as well… “What does this persona of yours look like?”

He wasn’t stalling on sharing what he was, not really. The kitsune was simply curious by nature, and Mitsuru would have to gently nudge him to remember to share himself.

[bufus]

"Indeed it was." That was all she allowed herself to say on that matter. Even now she found herself wondering if there was a way she could stay here. Perhaps that was wrong of her, to want to trap her other there, but it was only fair to want to be out here.

"I would like to think I would at the very least be able to hold my own. The magic I'm capable of through her includes offensive ice spells as well as defensive healing magic as well as a few other more obscure things." It seemed a bit wise to keep at least some things to herself and what better thing to keep close than the fact that she could charm a foe or cause them to flee in panic. She gave a nod at his apology. "Your apology is accepted, but unnecessary. Most humans lack any sort of ability to do what I am capable of." It wasn't completely unique to her, but it was on the rare side of things. It seemed logical he would have never run into it.

"Hm." She looked at him for a second as if judging the merits of showing him. He seemed curious enough and there was no reason for her to not think he would keep to his word. While they hadn't agreed on any sort of displays, she wondered if she showed him if he might not show her a glimpse at what he might really look like. The form he had currently couldn't be all there was to him. Finally she made the choice to show him, thrusting her hand towards her temple. There was nothing in her hand, this version of Mitsuru had perfected summoning without an Evoker long ago.

"Come Artemisia!" A bitter cold swept the area as the Persona appeared in all her glory. The woman was solid and stiff, almost like a marble statue. She worse a dress that was accent with armor around the chest and shoulders. Her face was half covered in a red mask that hid any emotion that might have been present on her face. In her hands she held a long chain whip that seemed to flow around her like a flurry of snow.

[paintingthestars]

Truth be told, Yusuke himself rather wished the same for himself… Though he more wondered if there were some way to broker a deal with his other self to switch now and again, that at least seemed somewhat fair than being trapped there for the rest of his days… Perhaps he should write the young man a letter before he left, the Kitsune mused to himself.

His attention snapped back to Mitsuru, though, a light smile on his face. Clearly there had been far more to the young woman than met the eye, and he couldn’t help but muse to himself at how silly it might have been to have not considered that. People and yokai alike were terribly complicated, and if she had survived in that other place she surely had some kind of ability to help herself there… “So even among humans in your world you are an exceptional sort, hm?” That is quite interesting, it made him more curious about her world, if anything. The things her grandfather studied or had her assist with, shadows and persona, what an intriguing place…!

Truly, it was a smart angle to consider. He might just be willing to show more than simply telling what he was. Should she be so open with him in return? Though he wouldn’t have broken their deal at all, he was a yokai of his word… It was just that he was caught up in an eagerness to see such things, his curiosity leading him. The kitsune wasn’t disappointed, either, as she called forth her persona. Her ‘Artemisia’ was truly a wonder to look upon, Yusuke’s yellow eyes widening with obvious surprise. Mouth dropping open in an awed little expression, even for a creature who wasn’t strictly normal and could manifest such a wide and strange variety of illusions… This was nothing like that.

This seemed solid and real, and he could easily sense the power coming from it. “My goodness, she truly is a magnificent being…! I would say many lesser yokai would cower at the sight of something such as her, and the more powerful soon learn that underestimating you is a mistake.” He commented with a gesture and a small clap of his hands.