[ A little nod in confirmation. If the need arises they can revisit the offer of an 'arrangement' to collect each other's cards. At least in this moment Lan Wangji is still hopeful he won't need it, that he can find a way to dispel whatever this is, but we shall see. We shall see.... ]
What do you recall? Of the tales told in your world. [ There could be a clue in those tales, something missed that could be picked up by the fresh eyes and ears of an outsider. ]
We should research. Invoke assistance from others with similar intentions.
[Matoba will see, indeed. :) They always are so stubborn at first...]
[Matoba raises a hand to his chin.] Aah. There are many such tales, some merely folklore passed throughout the ages as tales of caution against spirits. And some are actual events that have been recorded within our community's histories from past jobs. All quite situational, with different ayakashi to blame...
But there are some common warnings. "Do not eat food offered by spirits, or while within the real of spirits, for eating of their food and drink will assimilate you into such a form". Haha, that one is probably true in practice, but we don't have a lot of choice, do we? If that were partly to blame for the state of the other mortals that have lost themselves, I would not be surprised.
However, if I were to guess based on my observations, it isn't merely eating or drinking, but the general excess that the resort encourages, that is to blame for the eventual loss of self. Much of it is laced with various drugs and additions that further encourage relaxing of wits and the corruption of one's facilities.
...There are others like us, [Matoba agrees, thinking of a few of those he's met and had similar conversations with.] There is a woman- Topaz-san. She also has been interested in this topic, and her area of knowledge is quite different. Quite, ah... scientific, shall we say?
[ They have similar such tales in their own world. Warnings to heed, against the offerings from spirits, yao, those possessing a human form or otherwise. Yet as mentioned, the nature of this place leaves them with little choice. ]
Hard to avoid, when our access to necessities is controlled. Food, water, shelter.
[ Sure, he could practice inertia for a while, refuse to take in any sustenance, but then what? Be too weak to fight anything, should the need arise? ]
This woman. [ Topaz? He said? ] Perhaps we can arrange a meeting point when opportunity arises. Discuss our observations.
Yes. We have spoken a few times, sharing theories and knowledge. I'm told she is in contact with some others who have been investigating the nature of this realm, as well. She is cautious, which I cannot blame... It is difficult to speak privately when the resort itself is our captor.
But not impossible. [Matoba gestures towards the spells he's posted at his doorframes, at certain corners of his room. The same principles governed the flow of energy and spirits in both cultivation and the practices adapted by modern exorcists.] Although it is wise to remain discreet when possible.
[He pauses thoughtfully, a little rueful.] ...It has been, I think, a year's time since I arrived. I cannot say there has been no progress- there have been... some incidents within the resort, slipping of power. Even Great Demons are not completely impervious.
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no subject
[ A little nod in confirmation. If the need arises they can revisit the offer of an 'arrangement' to collect each other's cards. At least in this moment Lan Wangji is still hopeful he won't need it, that he can find a way to dispel whatever this is, but we shall see. We shall see.... ]
What do you recall? Of the tales told in your world. [ There could be a clue in those tales, something missed that could be picked up by the fresh eyes and ears of an outsider. ]
We should research. Invoke assistance from others with similar intentions.
[ i.e. getting the hell out of here ]
no subject
[Matoba raises a hand to his chin.] Aah. There are many such tales, some merely folklore passed throughout the ages as tales of caution against spirits. And some are actual events that have been recorded within our community's histories from past jobs. All quite situational, with different ayakashi to blame...
But there are some common warnings. "Do not eat food offered by spirits, or while within the real of spirits, for eating of their food and drink will assimilate you into such a form". Haha, that one is probably true in practice, but we don't have a lot of choice, do we? If that were partly to blame for the state of the other mortals that have lost themselves, I would not be surprised.
However, if I were to guess based on my observations, it isn't merely eating or drinking, but the general excess that the resort encourages, that is to blame for the eventual loss of self. Much of it is laced with various drugs and additions that further encourage relaxing of wits and the corruption of one's facilities.
...There are others like us, [Matoba agrees, thinking of a few of those he's met and had similar conversations with.] There is a woman- Topaz-san. She also has been interested in this topic, and her area of knowledge is quite different. Quite, ah... scientific, shall we say?
no subject
Hard to avoid, when our access to necessities is controlled. Food, water, shelter.
[ Sure, he could practice inertia for a while, refuse to take in any sustenance, but then what? Be too weak to fight anything, should the need arise? ]
This woman. [ Topaz? He said? ] Perhaps we can arrange a meeting point when opportunity arises. Discuss our observations.
no subject
But not impossible. [Matoba gestures towards the spells he's posted at his doorframes, at certain corners of his room. The same principles governed the flow of energy and spirits in both cultivation and the practices adapted by modern exorcists.] Although it is wise to remain discreet when possible.
[He pauses thoughtfully, a little rueful.] ...It has been, I think, a year's time since I arrived. I cannot say there has been no progress- there have been... some incidents within the resort, slipping of power. Even Great Demons are not completely impervious.