[what the hell is this?

jiuqing thinks this, but doesn't say it - the only outward indication that she's discomforted is a very brief flash of fear on her face as she sits up, but it's a blink-and-you'll-miss-it sort of thing. once she's upright, she takes a deep breath to steady herself, and her expression becomes carefully neutral as she takes in her surroundings calmly.

this is an unfamiliar place, and these are unfamiliar people. but just sitting around isn't going to do her any good. she gets to her feet, dusts off her newly-monochrome skirts, and looks to the nearest person.]

...well, there's little point in just staying here. Why don't we take a look around?

[walking through one of the archways has taken her to... the temple!

this shrine is dark and spooky indeed, and while visiting shrines has brought her peace before, there doesn't really seem to be much peace to be had here. her shoulders are a little tense as she explores the area to the best of her ability, frowning slightly at the shadows as they fuzz out and then -

she jolts slightly, her head snapping toward the direction of the locked door inside the shrine, when the banging noise starts up. she gives an involuntary gasp, then puts a hand to her chest to steady herself. calm down.]

Well, that sounds thoroughly unpleasant.

[later in the day, her wanderings take her to the carnival.

it's similarly creepy. she doesn't recognize any of the things here (the shrine, at least, was vaguely aesthetically similar to ones she's been to in the past). her expression is a little grave as she examines some of the bloodstains on the rides, but without any way to tell what caused them, she prioritizes gathering more information for now.

so! into the house of mirrors she goes.

this is a terrible idea. upon seeing a reflection that isn't hers, she immediately whirls around to face whoever else is there, her stance defensive.]

Who—?

[breathe, jiuqing.]

Who are you?

[if none of the above works for you, just hit me with whatever and i'll roll with it! you can also grab me on discord or plurk to plot something out/grab me for a pc if you want!]