On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

“Feel free to relax. There’s no status here, just… a group of family and friends having a nice meal.” Fukumoto Kenji-san, Hinata’s grandfather, declared, his brown eyes twinkling with amusement. “Oh, and don’t worry about your bodyguards, they’re all having a meal of their own, but not having them present helps create the right atmosphere. Besides… it isn’t like any danger can befall you here, is it? I saw your performance on the television, Eri-chan. My Hinata didn’t lose either. And word from the nobility is that you were terribly brave, Miyu-chan. You too, Sakura-chan, Honoka-chan.”

“My, I’m feeling left out here.” Mayumi-san drawled. “Though to be honest, I was no more than baggage for Hinata and the others. I can’t even use the excuse that I don’t have a Divine Favour, as Sakura-chan and Honoka-chan fought bravely. But you’ve missed someone else, Fukumoto-san.”

“Call me Kenji. Like I said, we’re all family and friends here, yes?” He then turned to their last companion, Kana, who seemed a little uncomfortable still in the refined company of so many noble daughters, but Eri knew she was strong-willed, almost too much so, and had a thick skin and sense of pride, so she’d manage to adapt. “As for you, Kana-chan, I hope that just as Eri-chan does, you can feel free to come to me for advice. This old man is not washed up yet, and having one foot in the world of nobility, and another in more traditional big business, I can offer perspective.”

Kana, still wearing her richly decorated shrine maiden attire from the Pilgrimage, as nobody had time to change, instead rushing here once the final tasks at Hikawa-Kawagoe were completed, not even having time to catch the end of Arisu-san’s broadcast, nodded. “Don’t worry, I’m fine. And I don’t feel left out. Honestly… I don’t really like to think about my own actions.” Her smile was a little sickly. “But if I had to, I’d do it again. They came looking to hurt and kill us.” She observed Honoka-san and Sakura-san with sympathy. “Your school proved that. So… it was a good deed. But…”

I don’t sympathise with our dead enemies. Like Kana said, they were the aggressors. If they left us alone, we’d leave them alone. Akio’s going to rule, yes, but that doesn’t mean he’ll dominate everyone. But I guess some people can’t bear the thought of not being in charge. Eri had noticed that a number of the girls had been troubled after the Church attacks, which was understandable, but Eri herself… it’s no different to when I killed that Kijo. I didn’t go looking for trouble, but trouble found me, and I’ll be damned if I’m going to lie down and die just so as not to hurt others. I know we Japanese are often seen as pacifists, but I’ll fight for what I want! That doesn’t mean I don’t get it though…

Fortunately, Akio, while busy, was making time to relax everyone, and Haru-san’s Light was particularly effective at calming raging emotions. “…it’s not like you should feel bad over it, Kana.” Eri reassured her, voicing her thoughts. “If anything, I respect the way you leapt into action, despite being all alone, and you even dashed back to your shrine to help others.”

“I know. And I have a renewed understanding for what Akio went through when he saved me from those yakuza who invaded the shrine and also protected us from the American agents. Okay, enough of this.” Kana took a deep breath and smiled tremulously. “We’re not here to be all miserable, are we?” She glanced around the table, which was set with a delicious meal for them, prepared by the Fukumoto house chefs, the starters smelling delicious and tantalising. “We’re here to relax after another exhausting day!”

“Indeed so. Feel free to enjoy yourselves and set aside your worries for a while.” Kenji-san agreed. “Though if you want to talk about it, my Hinata will attest I’m quite a good listener. I promise not to judge.”

As Hinata giggled at that, Kenji-san frowned. “It’s a shame that Motoko-chan and Natsumi-chan aren’t here. Working themselves too hard isn’t a good thing. Time to rest is important too. In business as well as any other endeavour. I didn’t build Nichibotsu from scratch just for the sake of wealth. You build it for those you cherish. Family.”

“Akio says the same.” Eri agreed. “And ordinarily I’d have insisted they come. But… the circumstances are a little special. They want to obtain their Favour even a day, an hour, a minute faster. Akio’s expending a significant amount of resources on holding multiple at once, and even though he says he’s got a better control over the drain and greater adherence coming in… no, I understand it. Next time, I’m sure… Grandpa.” Eri felt embarrassed with such a manner of address in company, but Kenji-san leaned back in his chair, seeming well satisfied.

“It can’t be helped then. Motoko-chan is a serious young woman, and Natsumi-chan follows her lead. A shame. But we have some newer faces here today.” His smile was gentle. “Who would have thought that I’d be hosting all of the granddaughters of the Three Great Houses, certainly not me, even with my daughter-in-law being your aunt, Sakura-chan.”

Sakura-san, who was wearing the shrine maiden version of an Adamant uniform, seemed oddly embarrassed. I quite like her though. She’s usually softly spoken and listens, unlike brash Mayumi-san. I know Hinata has had trouble with her cousin in the past, but it sounds to me like both of them needled at each other.

“I hardly feel worthy of the title.” she muttered. While it was bad manners to talk while they ate, the clinking of forks and spoons could be heard, as Kenji-san had insisted this was a particularly informal gathering, where even words that gave offense could be shared, if they were genuine. “With father in seclusion due to his unwise actions, and my aunt currently assisting with the day-to-day running of house Takatsukasa, and… Hinata being the heir… I feel like I have lost my place in the world.” Delicate features and her dark hair framing her face made her seem almost ephemeral. “I am not complaining though. I understand it is simply… a consequence of our own actions.”

“Change is always frightening.” Miyu-san agreed, once she had gently placed down her spoon and dabbed her mouth with a napkin. “I was terrified when I gained the Favour of Ame-no-Uzume. Fortunately, matters resolved themselves to my satisfaction, although…” She glanced down at her feet idly. “I must say, I never thought it possible, but I grow weary of dancing!”

Hinata giggled at that, and Mayumi-san broke into a broad, cheeky smile. Even Eri had to shake her head, sympathising. “At some point you’ll get a break… maybe.” Eri amended, knowing that usually after one goal was reached or a crisis overcome, a new need or disaster cropped up like clockwork. “I think we all know why we need to be strong, though.”

As those at the table fell silent, Mayumi-san particularly pensive, Kenji-san clapped his hands. “Indeed, but it is quite the gloomy subject. At least enjoy the soup. It’s a Western recipe but styled to our Japanese tastes. My personal chef is quite excellent.” He laughed heartily. “When you get old, you realise it is the simple pleasures that make life worth living. Good food, good companionship.”

“I think Shaeula understands that already, grandfather!” Hinata giggled. “It’s fortunate we do a great deal of exercise, and our bodies burn more calories, as no doubt Shaeula will have arranged a feast for us after this.” She paused for a moment. “Are you sure you won’t come, grandfather? I can get you a device to make it safe easily enough, and Shaeula assures me it’s not to be missed.”

“I think I’ll pass.” Kenji-san demurred. “It’s all far too strange for me. Besides… doesn’t it happen several times a year? Perhaps next time. If it’s that spectacular, you could probably make a fortune treating it as an exclusive event for the wealthy and influential, and selling tickets.”

Hinata leaked another giggle, this one wicked. “Funny you should say that, father. Shaeula and I have already planned that. But for next time. This first time since Shaeula met us, she wants it to be just family, friends and colleagues.”

“Never miss out on an opportunity.” Kenji-san agreed. “You will only regret it later. And speaking of…” He turned his attention to Eri. “Have you given matters any more thought? I have to say, your face looks far brighter recently, and your eyes seem unclouded. Has your hesitation been swept aside?”

“For now.” Eri agreed, before glancing around the table at her companions. I’m not the only one who has struggled. But I’ve had a lot of help. And… my own efforts have borne fruit as well. If I look back at the me from a few months ago, I feel both shame, and pride at how I’ve overcome my selfish dependence on Akio. Not that I’ll ever not love him, want to be with him forever, but… it wasn’t healthy. “In part thanks to your advice, and the help from Hinata and our fellow sisters. Though not all of her deeds have been helpful.”

Hinata flushed a brilliant crimson but still managed a cheeky smile. “I know! And I’m sorry. But Adamant was vital, and will be more so, now we have a clearer indication of its purpose and best methods of strengthening its members. But I do understand keeping you in the dark was unfair of me. I did it for my own convenience, figuring you’d just be angry.”

“And indeed I was. But… we all know Shaeula, and what she’s like. Shiro too. Honestly…” Eri took a mouthful of the soup, and it was indeed good. Mother-in-law Emily occasionally cooked some British dishes. This reminds me of that, though, and apologies to you, Emily, but… this is far superior. But then, this dish was made by a highly paid chef…

“…Shiro’s more frustrating. Shaeula’s a Fae, I get why she doesn’t have concepts like monogamy or get the fierce desire to monopolise Akio. But Shiro… she was on my side to start with, warding off others! Then all of a sudden, she broke!”

“It’s ego.” Hinata laughed. “Shaeula keeps saying she was an arrogant, bratty child, but honestly, out of all of us, Shiro’s got the highest opinion of herself. Though I think it’s more to cover up her sense of inferiority too. She’s Yin and Yang, as Daiyu might say. I invited Daiyu too, grandfather…” she changed the subject. “…but apparently she wants to discuss some matters with Tamamo-no-Mae, she thinks she’s close to an insight on something…”

“From what I’ve seen…” Mayumi-san spoke up. “…it’s very much an ‘if I can’t have his love all to myself, then instead all of the beauties of the world should be his.’ situation. Perhaps it’s a streak of stubbornness, but she is very stubborn.”

“That’s the pot calling the kettle black, as Akio says.” Hinata pointed out. “You’re quite the stubborn woman yourself, Mayumi. But I agree. Honestly, I feel bad she’s not apologised to you Eri. At least… not in any conventional sense.”

“I’m used to it. She’s incredibly socially awkward. I don’t think she can say she’s sorry without falling into depression. But she won’t do it again.” Eri agreed.

“Somehow, I feel rather confused, yet also… a little bit ashamed, like I have done something bad?” Honoka-san, the youngest here, spoke to Sakura-san. She too was wearing an Adamant uniform, though in her case it was… complicated.

It always is, isn’t it?

“I do not think we can be blamed.” Sakura-san reassured her. “Besides, I had a choice. You… it is hard not to feel sorry for you, Honoka-san. Or is that too presumptuous of me?”

“If an old man can interject…” Kenji-san spoke, just after putting down his sake bowl. “…while most dislike receiving pity, genuine compassion is never an imposition. But the situation sure is complicated. Honestly, being a commoner isn’t so bad, is it, Eri-chan, Kana-chan?”

Kana snorted, amused. “Being a rich commoner, sure. But there’s nothing fun about being poor.”

Eri nodded, remembering her past all too well. Akio’s family wasn’t well-off at all, but the Mori household was close to the poverty line. She had lost count of the number of times Aiko had helped her out with her own clothes and even books on occasion. There’s no such thing as a debt between best friends, but… I do want to repay you someday, Aiko.

“Of course. Though I’m a firm believer in working hard and making something of ourselves. Not only does hard work lead to a better life, but it also leads to self-respect and pride.” He narrowed his eyes meaningfully. “You should know that well, Kana-chan. After all, aren’t you labouring away to prepare the facilities for the new factory, as well as various other projects?”

“Yeah.” Kana-chan agreed. “I’m certainly working hard. But the oddest thing is… I feel a bit strange, not having to help with the construction during Pilgrimage. I always thought I wanted a life of lazing around, shopping and being pampered.” She winked at Eri cheekily then. “I wanted to be a housewife just like you did Eri, and for equally stupid reasons. Now, there’s certainly nothing wrong with wanting to be a good wife…” she declared hastily. “…when the time comes for me and Akio to reach that stage of our lives, I’ll not be selfish. I’ve grown up. And there’s something rather heartwarming about our husband coming back after a long day of work, welcoming him home and spending time together. But… we need to be more.”

“Right.” Eri agreed. “I still very much love the idea of being a traditional housewife. Doing the chores, making meals… attending to his needs…” Eri’s face reddened a little, and it took quite the effort to prevent cat ears and a tail from materialising. “…but a lot of that was my selfishness too. I didn’t like people, or associating with them, so if I shut myself away, devoted myself to Akio, I wouldn’t have to face that. And… he’d see my isolation and dote on me. He’s like that. Too kind.”

“Yes, you’ve come a long way.” Kenji-san chortled. “If you truly desired to be a housewife from the bottom of your heart, that would be one thing. But you want far more.”

“That is the noble way.” Miyu-san pointed out. “We are trained, taught to be subservient, to listen to our husbands, always be modest, never talk back, stay out of business and the affairs of the house, stick to raising the children… to be the ideal Yamato Nadeshiko, the flowers of Japanese womanhood and nobility. Although…” She glanced at Hinata before confiding loudly to the others. “…Hinata-chan was not very good at that. Why, when she visited my home, she and Akio-kun showed me no respect at all, and trampled on my feelings, breaking my heart. Although… they did it so that they could rebuild me afterwards. I hold no grudges.”

“You’d better not.” Hinata giggled. “We don’t stand for that level of stupidity here. I’m glad you finally manage to talk with us more informally now though.”

“It is a little hard.” Miyu-san admitted. “After all, I am merely Akio-kun’s Vassal. But… it does not mean in the noble sense.” She addressed her cousin. “Honoka-chan… you are in a similar position to me. You know why grandfather did it, don’t you?”

Honoka-san nodded. “Yes. I can think of many reasons. My father… he did a terrible thing. To the rest of the nobility, I am now worthless, tainted. But that means… you will have to inherit Fujiwara house. There is no-one else.”

“That depends on Akio-kun. Should he deem it in my best interests, he will allow it. Or perhaps he will rehabilitate you, Honoka-chan. Rest assured though, our fate as daughters of the nobility, to marry who grandfather chooses… is over. Though we are still beholden to Akio-kun’s control, he is not unreasonable. And would not force us against our will.” She paused. “Except to train and to dance… I pity you, Honoka-chan, Sakura-san. Soon you will know the horrors of relentless forced self-improvement, as I do.” She shuddered theatrically, and Kenji-san seemed a little surprised.

“I definitely never thought I’d see this sort of scene. Old Shige-kun’s granddaughter being so… so human.” He chuckled. “Eri-chan, Kana-chan, you have your worries, but the daughters of nobility have it hard too. A lot of privilege and wealth yes, but… no kind of life at all. I worried for you, Hinata.” He addressed his granddaughter fondly, one hand stroking his beard, even as he sipped at his sake between sentences. “You were like your father, wanting so badly to be accepted. But those that don’t fit the narrow framework the nobility insists on break or are broken. Motoko-chan wasn’t able to fit in, was she? While I have rather mixed feelings about Akio-kun and his many, growing number of wives… I weigh your happiness, Hinata.”

“And I am happy. And will only continue to grow ever more so!” Hinata insisted. “Sakura, I’m sorry I resented you. We were the same, but because everyone treated you differently, I grew angry, even though you tried to help me fit into the framework grandfather spoke of, so as to not get hurt.”

“I was jealous too.” Sakura-san sighed. “You were free, compared to me. Takatsukasa house is noble yes, but… we are a shell. Or we were…”

“Yes.” Mayumi-san agreed. “Its finances and influence is stabilising. And it’ll only grow ever more brilliant.” She grinned at Kana. “You’ve done good work. While the tunnels still need completing, I believe the main factory site is already done. I can hardly wait until the business is up and running and the wealth starts rolling in!”

“Don’t forget you’re only invested in part of our enterprise.” Hinata teased. “Sure, you’ll make more than the share of Ichijou heavy Industries we gained is worth, but the real money is going to flow to our pockets.”

“I told you I’d invest…” Mayumi-san pouted, but Hinata merely chortled, amused.

“We don’t need your money, we’ve plenty of our own. Besides, we need to keep this in the family, as it were. Of course, if you wanted to break away from Ichijou house and start your own branch house, we’d consider cutting you in…”

Mayumi-san blinked, mouth open to rebut her, before she paused, brown eyes thoughtful.

“This is a fascinating conversation. Our main meal will be arriving soon, but before it does…” Kenji-san suggested. “…it might be worth an outsider’s perspective. Eri-chan, a question for you, and for you too, Kana-chan. All right… Eri-chan, what do you see as the strengths and weaknesses of the nobility as it stands, and for you, Kana-chan… firstly, why is Akio-kun paying you for your construction work, despite your relationship, and why did Hinata suggest to Mayumi-chan that she should break away from her dependence on Ichijou house?”

“Hmm…” Eri considered it. “Bear in mind this is just my opinion, and I mean no offense to any of you here…”

“I understand.” Miyu-san smiled softly. “I am well aware of your forthright nature by now.” The others nodded too, so Eri gathered her thoughts, trying to articulate them.

“Strengths, hmm… unity, consistency and support, I suppose.” After all, they’ve clearly endured for as long as the Imperial Family has. The shrines and temples too, although there have been… failures… Glancing at Sakura-san, who was merely listening for her answer with well-mannered silence, Eri felt a little bad for her. I like Hinata a lot, but… being her cousin, and maybe even rival… that must have been rough.

“The nobility seems rather unified, though the way that it is all tied together I can’t say I approve of. I have to admit, you’re all beautiful, well-mannered girls, most of you, anyway…” As Hinata snorted at her teasing, Eri continued. “And there’s no question that you’d make excellent wives, but… just like I’d been stuck in that mindset, now… now I’m more.”

“Yes. Have you made up your mind then?” Kenji-san asked, and Eri shrugged.

“Not exactly. I’m going to be strong, learn how to fight, but not because I relish fighting, or think it’s my best role. It’s because I’ve tasted helplessness, being a burden, and I’m never going to put myself or Akio in that situation again. I’m still feeling out just what I want to do, but I’ve taken your advice, and I listen, learn and experience many things… anyway, grandpa… don’t interrupt me, otherwise we’ll get off topic.”

“Yes, of course.” Kenji-san chuckled cheerily. “I must say, it’s a delight to have so many fine friends of my granddaughter over for dinner. A shame you all have to rush off, or we could go all night!”

“You’re not as young as you used to be, grandfather, even with Chirurgery! Act your age!” Hinata warned, before she fell silent at Eri’s stare. “Sorry, you carry on!”

“Basically, unity secured through marriage is fine. Akio’s doing rather more of it than I’d like, but… it’s not merely a foundation of shared interests, despite how some may have started. There’s love. And we know there’s no greater binding force than that. Duty and responsibility are fine and important… but I’d rather do it our way. Consistency… the nobility always knows where they stand, and who they are. It’s hard to join, as your family’s story shows, Grandpa Kenji. It’s also hard to leave. The rest of the nobility try to support their fellows.” Sakura-san seemed sad at that. “And that support comes with additional bindings, preventing anyone from stepping out of line. Ties of obligations again.”

As several of the girls nodded, Eri moved on to the weaknesses. “The weaknesses are basically the strengths, just reversed. Unity rejects the necessity to grow. The nobility is insular, and focused on preserving, not expanding. And if you never advance, that means every setback, every lost battle… you decline. Consistency also prevents change and growth. And in a changing world… that’s fatal.” I hated change, wished Akio would stay in Nishimorioka, and that our world would just be us and our families. But… not all change is bad. And even change for the worse can be managed to lead to a better outcome. I’ve learned that…

“Support… how can that be bad? Simple… too many rotten apples are supported, empowered by the inflated sense of permanence and importance brought on by being nobility. I’m sorry, Honoka-san, but your father was evil.”

Honoka-san nodded. “I am aware of that. And I am terribly sorry. Hence why grandfather ordered Akio to take charge of me, so I may atone…”

“No, that’s you just falling into the bad habits of the nobility.” Eri shook her head, frustrated. “Akio wouldn’t take you in just because he was ordered to. He’s worried about your wellbeing, and because you are Miyu-san’s cousin, he wants to help you. And you don’t need to atone. Your father was garbage, not you! That’s the problem with such a rigid system. Don’t they say a mighty oak is blown down by a storm, while a flexible willow tree endures?”

“Your points are interesting, as I expect from you, Eri-chan. Your perspective is fresh. Kana-chan, go on now.” Kenji-san urged.

“Putting me on the spot, huh?” Kana smiled wryly. “All right, honestly, I was a bit annoyed at first that Akio was paying me. It made me think that he still thought of me as a mercenary girl. I was, certainly, but I’m serious about him, just as I hope he is about me. But thinking about it, and asking around… he pays Grulgor, and Ixitt too. Not just them…”

“Yes, if we do tasks that benefit the Territory as a whole, we get paid.” Eri agreed.

“We don’t need money, Akio will give us anything we ask for, but it shows how committed he is to establishing a fair system for his Territory and the wider world when change comes. If the nobility is an oak, then we’re the willow, right Eri?” Kana winked, and Eri couldn’t help but smile back. Her banter with Kana, while often frustrating, seemed very natural nowadays.

“And as for Hinata’s suggestion…” Kana glanced at Mayumi-san, who was listening, still deep in thought. “…I doubt it’s just so Mayumi-chan can avoid her own arranged marriage. Honestly, much as you are an arrogant, entitled brat…”

“Hey, that’s so rude!” Mayumi-san spluttered, but Kana just winked at her.

“I didn’t say I didn’t like you, Mayumi-chan, but you certainly make a tough first impression, and you stick your nose in everywhere, as if you’re the Queen of the world…”

She gasped, shocked, but soon recovered. “I… can’t say that’s not true… old habits, I suppose. But I’m learning. Just because I’m Ichijou Mayumi doesn’t mean I’m going to be treated well. In fact, the reverse might be true…” She shuddered, remembering past events.

“Exactly. Just as Eri needed to move beyond her own view of herself as Oshiro Eri, devoted housewife…” Kana couldn’t resist teasing Eri, who pursed her lips silently. “…you need to be more than Ichijou Mayumi, noble daughter. Everyone else here has taken that journey. You’re the final one… although…” Kana smiled sympathetically at Honoka-san. “…you’ve not taken the step freely. You think you have, you agreed, but… you agreed for the wrong reasons. Hinata…”

“Don’t worry!” Hinata stuck up a thumb. “I’m already working on it. In the end, Honoka-chan, you don’t know it, but you’ve got a lot of choices. You’re riding a big ship now, the biggest!”

“Riding a big ship, hmm?” Kenji-san seemed pleased. “Trust my granddaughter to get it. So… oh, wait, dinner is here.” The maids of the penthouse brought out the food, and soon everyone was eating merrily and drinking, chatting casually. As the sound of knives, forks, spoons and chopsticks faded away, Kenji-san leaned back, satisfied.

“A good meal. Nothing beats being surrounded by my cute granddaughter, my granddaughters-in-law, and their friends. Akio-kun is going to have a lot of these blissful days in the distant future. Now… let this old man pick up where we left off. It wasn’t just my whims, grandpa is here to dispense some wisdom. So, let me ask a final question to tie everything together. Just why is the nobility so influential still, and why do they not allow wealthy businessmen such as me to join, or powerful political families, or those of famous entertainers?”

“It is because of influence. Long-standing influence.” Miyu-san answered. “The nobility have carried both wealth and political power for fifteen hundred years. Whereas a modern political family such as Prime Minster Abe-sama’s… a single shift in sentiment, and they are discarded. It is the same with large enterprises. Nichibotsu is indeed wealthy and has endured, hence why grandfather offered you a position in the Three-Hundred. But there have been many companies worth hundreds of billions of yen on paper that have vanished as quickly as they rose.”

“Exactly. Well answered, Miyu-chan.” Kenji-san clapped his hands, well satisfied. “Shige-kun is a shrewd one. Your grandfathers too, Mayumi-chan, Sakura-chan. Though Shige-kun was the driving force behind the Three-Hundred. But they are right. Compared to political heavyweights such as the Tsumura family, modern political dynasties are lucky to last two generations, or a couple of decades. And yes, the technology boom of the early twenty-first century led to many new powerhouse companies appearing, and then collapsing even faster, leaving nothing behind but debts and empty promises. So yes, the nobility disdains such… upstart and unstable influences. Ater all, they have history, and financial and political power in excess, and the unity to use it.”

Everyone listened to Kenji-san as he talked. He certainly is a grandpa… he likes talking to the younger generations. Although, mother’s father, my grandfather… he’s a bit annoying, too much of a gossip…

“Of course, this isn’t just idle chatter, pleasant though that would be.” He winked, and Eri wondered if her thoughts were showing on her face. “Does their money and power guarantee survival?”

Once more, Sakura-san answered him. “No. The War… after that, Takatsukasa house was ruined, only kept alive by help from the other nobility, and many families disappeared.”

“The shrines too. So many were lost over that period.” Kana agreed softly.

“Exactly.” Kenji-san agreed, impressed. “Trust you to know of that, Sakura-chan. It is your family after all, despite everything. But yes… against change so monumental, and power so unreasonable… money, influence… it’s largely meaningless. Not entirely, as Shige-kun so shrewdly proved, keeping in with the leaders of the American occupation forces, thus preventing worse outcomes. But… in the face of such change…”

“I get it.” Mayumi-san agreed, blinking, coming out of her own thoughts. “You’re saying that such a change is upon us now, aren’t you? And that it doesn’t matter how long Ichijou house has lasted, or how wealthy and influential we are… we’re an oak, and the gale is blowing…”

“Exactly. And do you disagree?” Kenji-kun asked. As she shook her head, he nodded, pleased.

“Yes, the world has changed. And the nobility has to bend, if it is to endure. Nobody can predict the future, but it doesn’t take a prophet to see that what’s coming will reshape the world more than any mere war. And at the heart stands Akio-kun. Simply put… if events conspire to defeat him, to crush all he is building, then nothing my wealth could do, or the nobility and their influence, will turn it aside. So… do you want to stay confined, Mayumi-chan, or step out of your safe cocoon, as my granddaughter suggests, and accept that while there is always going to be a place for the nobility, the Imperial Family, and the faith… it is a subordinate one.”

She exchanged a glance with Hinata, who nodded firmly, and Mayumi-san let out a long sigh. “I don’t know. I’ve been thinking about things for a while. South Africa… that showed me how naïve I was. The Tengokusentou incident too, and don’t be sad, Honoka-chan, I don’t blame you for that.”

“All you can do is think about it.” Kenji-san agreed. “But if you ever want some advice, I’m more than happy to listen. Sometimes it’s very hard to talk to your family or friends about things. While talking to me might not be suitable for every worry, I’m a man who can see the nobility from both sides. I started as an ordinary man and built Nichibotsu from nothing. Of course, I’m not arrogant enough to think that makes me an expert on everything, but you don’t get to where I am without seeing all sorts of people and all sorts of situations. I know a thing or two.” His grin was broad. “Let Grandpa Kenji help you think about things in a different way. Now…” he was suddenly serious. “I don’t want you to think I disdain the nobility or have no love for tradition.” His brown eyes were sparkling mischievously, and Eri knew he was about to say something cheeky.

“In fact, I adore tradition. I can hardly wait to see my granddaughter wearing the shiromuku and uchikake kimonos on her wedding day.” As Hinata blushed, his grin broadened. “Though I’m not a slave to tradition. Seeing her in a Western wedding dress will be lovely too. And of course, my honorary granddaughters too…”

Eri rolled her eyes at that, but did feel a sense of affection for the irreverent old man. He was right in that it was certainly sometimes helpful to have someone to speak to that wasn’t Akio or her immediate family. “I don’t know if you’ll be as happy as Natsumi’s family, Grandpa Kenji…”

“Oh yes. After all, what better advertisement for their beautiful designs.” Kenji-san agreed. “It will be a state affair, broadcast around the world, especially with Akio-kun marrying into the Imperial Family… speaking of… that poor idiot Prince Gorohito.” He clicked his tongue, despairing. “He’s probably quite familiar to you girls, isn’t he? Not personally, but… brothers and fathers…”

“Not all of them!” Mayumi-san protested. “My brother is actually level-headed, but… I’m afraid there certainly are plenty like the Prince.”

“Father would not accept reality.” Sakura-san agreed. “Stubborn pride blinded him.”

“Yes. It’s a symptom of the way that the established system twists men. It isn’t just women who suffer, though I’m not so crass as to compare your circumstances. But many of the sons of the nobility are well educated, yet as they are isolated from the rest of society and fawned on, they grow arrogant. That reminds me…” Dropping his jovial tone, Eri found herself sitting up straighter as he stared at her, Kana and Hinata. “…Akio-kun’s in a position of great responsibility. It will be hard for him not to change. See that he doesn’t become arrogant and overestimate himself. I know he often tends towards being too humble, which is as big a sin for a leader, but… keep him grounded. Don’t let his ego run wild.”

“You can count on us.” Hinata giggled. “Eri, we’ve got him in hand, don’t we?” She winked at Kana then. “You’ll see what we mean soon enough.” She then tittered wickedly as Kana flushed shyly.

“Oh my.” Kenji-san coughed, a little embarrassed himself. “It’s certainly true that women have many weapons that can bring down a man. But I know you, Hinata, don’t get carried away!”

“I won’t!” she promised. “I’m too busy for that. Once the Pilgrimage is done, we’ll be racing headlong for the opening of our new industries. It’s taking up a lot of my time. As is managing Adamant.”

“It’s fortunate then that I’ll be leaving Nichibotsu to your brother, Hinata.” At his words she nodded, unsurprised. “Of course, I’m not one to leave you penniless. Your share has already come out of our cash reserves, and I’ve been investing in Akio-kun’s endeavours at your insistence, Hinata. But Hiroto would be penniless in comparison. If the products and technology your factories are going to produce deliver even a quarter of their promises, then your company will outstrip Nichibotsu in short order. Then maybe I’ll be coming to you for handouts, granddaughter!”

“I’ll have to think about it.” Hinata snickered. “Maybe you should step up your investments.”

“How rude!” Mayumi-san cried. “You said you didn’t need my investments!”

“You come with a lot of baggage, Mayumi.” Hinata shot back. “Grandfather does what I say, most of the time.”

“Baggage? I’m your dearest friend. You should be happy I’m willing to support your endeavours.”

“And get rich along the way?” Hinata shot back, and Mayumi-san shrugged shamelessly.

“Of course. Who invests to lose money? But…” She glanced over at Kenji-san, who was listening to their banter. “I’ve been thinking. If I go into business with the assistance of my family… they won’t let me fail, will they? Something will always come along, a sudden spate of orders, a new hire which has great talents… can’t let Ichijou Mayumi fail, it would hurt my prestige. But what you are doing is real. And not just you, Hinata. But Kana-chan, Eri-chan…”

Eri frowned a little at her informal manner of address, which she wasn’t comfortable with, but she had spent enough time with Mayumi-san to know it was just how she was, so she contented herself with merely rolling her eyes grumpily. “…Miyu-chan. Even you now, Sakura-chan, Honoka-chan. Me, I’m enjoying myself, playing around, but…” Her face was pale, and her brown eyes were twitching a little. “…when the fun stops, it makes me think.”

There was silence, nobody sure of what to say, and then Kenji-san interrupted. “That’s quite the heavy topic. So why not have something sweet? Sugar kickstarts the brain and soothes the spirit. Let an old man enjoy a fun time with his gaggle of granddaughters.”

Moments later the maids brought out a selection of homemade desserts, ice creams, fruits, puddings, parfaits and more. Even Eri was unable to resist their allure, and soon everyone was digging in. Seeing that, Kenji-san smiled triumphantly. “I told you this grandpa knows his stuff. Now, I think it’s a good thing you are all comfortable enough to share your thoughts and feelings. And if you ever need to talk, well, my son largely runs the company now, I only need to intercede if there’s a problem, so I do get rather bored…”

I see. Hmm, in that case… “Have you ever considered, Grandpa…” Eri spoke up. “…helping out with some of the business side of things? I know we have support from Chase Midas Gold and also from Barclays, but ideally, we’d like our own people. And you are family, aren’t you, Grandpa Kenji?” Eri hammered home the point. “You’d not be bored, and you’d get the opportunity to see a lot more of your new granddaughters, and Hinata too.”

Hinata agreed. “I’d love that, grandfather. I’m too busy to spend much time at home now, and if I’m honest, I want to spend time with Akio and everyone else, so having you a part of this would be interesting. Besides…” She smiled wickedly. “You’ll never guess who one of the new Adamant members we’ve recruited is?” As he shook his head, indicating he didn’t know, she smirked triumphantly. “Lee Da-eun!”

“You don’t mean one of the Lee daughters from…” he began incredulously, before Hinata cut him off.

“That’s right, the youngest from the Lee family, whose Chaebol runs your biggest and bitterest Asian rival. Yu-mi did good, bringing her in. I’m still extremely angry with South Korea for their actions, betraying our faith like that after we helped them. I don’t think its right to take it out on their citizens… but the political power base and their industry… we’ll claim our price!”

“I see. Ruthless as ever, Hinata.” Kenji-san was showing both amusement and pride on his face as he looked at his granddaughter. “It won’t be easy though, she’s… fifth in line, if I remember correctly?”

Hinata nodded. “Like me, she doesn’t need to inherit. She chose Adamant, after all. But she’s also like me in that she’s got something to prove.”

Eri decided to support Hinata. “If you want to be called grandpa, wouldn’t it sound all the sweeter from a daughter of a rival?”

Kenji-san laughed loudly at that. “You’re a wicked devil, Eri-chan. Wicked indeed. I’m not sure whether you got it from Hinata, or you’ve simply reinforced what she already has. Anyway…” They had mostly finished the desserts, and time was passing. “…you need to go to your viewing party, don’t you. I’ll…”

“No.” Eri exchanged glances with Hinata, who nodded. “You’ll come with us. There will be spare devices, and even if not, we’ll prevail on the Mortal Engineers to whip one up. It’s not like having a few extra lying around isn’t helpful.”

“That’s right.” Hinata agreed. “It’s not anyone who gets an invite to such a spectacle, but it’s also a family affair. I know Akio’s parents will be there, Eri’s too. Come on, grandfather, don’t be so stubborn!”

“I can’t say I wouldn’t enjoy talking more about business. I can ask my own grandfather, and he’ll talk to me, but Ichijou house has long been successful, so it’s not quite the same.” Mayumi-san supported them.

“Yeah, my parents are coming too.” Kana-chan agreed, and as further support was added and he conceded, Eri and Hinata exchanged a slight smile.

This was fun. I don’t normally enjoy company, or at least… I never used to. I’m growing up. And while I shouldn’t downplay my own efforts, it’s certainly thanks to a lot of good people who have supported me and offered good advice. Kenji-san among them. What will I do in the future? I’ve still not decided yet, but I know this… it won’t be to the detriment of my life with Akio, but… it will be of use to him, and also… it’ll be fulfilling for me. Because I see it now. If I only strive to make Akio happy, neglecting my own desires… he won’t be, and I’ll have failed us both. Kenji-san, no… I suppose he’s family now, so calling him Grandpa Kenji is fine, if a little informal for my usual style… has given me a lot of advice, or just even listened to my complaints, and helped me see that. Now then…

Eri couldn’t help but look forward to the spectacle that was about to unfold. Shaeula had been praising it constantly, and when Eri had asked Asha, she wasn’t quite as ebullient, but had confirmed it was a surreal and beautiful sight. Also… Her black cat ears and tail materialised, much to Kana’s and Mayumi-san’s amusement. I just get a feeling… something is going to happen. Not a… bad… feeling, just one… of anticipation?