On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

At the base of Mount Atago, where the polished stone steps wound their way up the mountain to twice the height of its Material form, we met up with a small group waiting for us. Chen Na nodded apologetically, before sharing a weak smile with Haru, the owner of her Throne. Beside her was Prince Shōtoku, his face covered in his usual bone-white powder makeup, and his robes as immaculate as always. And also…

“It has been a while.” Emperor Ōjin, the effective Avatar of Hachiman, greeted us, before glancing at Haanōbō and Arangbō with a mixture of amusement and disdain. “I could not miss this event, not with Tarōbō stirring up quite the ruckus.” Indeed, things at Mount Atago had changed. From high above we could already hear the sounds of shakuhachi flutes, taiko drums, the koto and shamisen, and more, as well as the songs of the Tengu. Even a casual glance up the mountain revealed that the torii gates set regularly along the steps had been hung with festive paper lanterns glowing in a myriad of colours, as well as…

“Is that… the Sacred Flame?” Haru asked, instinctively reaching an arm out for the distant glow, before her pale face flushed slightly, and she dropped her hand. “It is. Sorry, I got confused for a moment there. It’s got quite the resonance with me, and it stirs inside me.”

“A fascinating display, to use the Flame you guard so zealously as a mere accessory to the ceremony.” Ōjin’s voice was as powerful as his regal figure, still wearing his lacquered crimson armour under his robes, and sporting an Imperial crown. That was at odds with his wise face, with small beard trimmed neatly giving him an almost scholarly air, but his eyes also held barely leashed ferocity as well as wisdom.

Poor Prince Shōtoku looks rather outclassed… and speaking of… Interrupting the tense scene, ignoring the quiet giggles of Tear behind me, as she was whispering to Bell, I asked the Prince about Pilgrimage, and his answer surprised me.

“I merely let Tsukiko-sama have my authority to extend my favour to any she deems worthy this day.” He shrugged, silk robes rustling. “After all, I hold Tsukuyomi-jinja for her and always have. My will is her will.”

“You can do that?” Kana asked, interested. “Does that mean that Shirohebi could afford me the same authority? Not that getting his blessing is anywhere near as impressive as yours, Prince.”

“You might be surprised. The skeins of belief, the adherence of faith, have gathered around Shirohebizumi shrine. I saw such when I visited. We rise, we fall, upon the whims of the faithful. Adherence is a great power, never doubt it, yet… it is a power that is fickle, like a double-edged sword.”

“Your words are wise.” Emperor Ōjin agreed. “Faith is near inexhaustible, but… it shapes the wielder as surely as a chisel shapes a carving from raw stone. It is a tool, naught more…”

“But some tools are best left unused.” Daiyu joined the conversation. “A dagger that slips in the hand, or could break when wielded, or worse, turn and cut one’s own flesh, is a dagger best discarded. It is why I am wary of even these Favours, though… now I know how to make it my own, my misgivings have diminished.” She glanced at my excited sis as she said that.

“Simply know that it takes a great deal of effort to ensure a consistent and pure adherence that can be dyed as you would wish it. But… that aside, Kami Shirohebi is doubtless pleased with their growth. So do not disdain them, child of the shrines.”

“Sorry. Force of habit…” Kana muttered, embarrassed, stepping closer to me, before she apologised to the two Tengu. “Oh, sorry Haanōbō, Arangbō, we interrupted you before you could speak.”

Haanōbō merely dipped her wings in answer, but Arango boomed out a heartly laugh. “Oh, it is just the posturing of an annoying leftover. Not even the real thing.” I could hear the smirk in his voice, even if I couldn’t see it due to his crimson mask hiding his expressions. “But we are all… friends… here now. The Flame is pure again, we retain guardianship of the mountain, even under another…” He nodded to Haru, who waved that off casually. “…and we are… in accord… with those who dwell in Kyoto. To answer his impertinent question, the flames are beacons, to light the way. Just as we shall ascend the steps, the four of us.” He nodded at me and my sis. “While we Tengu disdain the ground, belong in the skies high above, or upon the lofty perch of Mount Atago… today is a special day. We four must climb together.”

“Speaking of…” Bell grinned at Motoko and Natsumi. “Do you remember our game of tag last time? Want to go again? Although…”

“Yes, Natsumi would be rather unstoppable now.” Motoko grinned, and Natsumi flushed, smiling wryly.

“Obviously I wouldn’t use Chollima’s Favour for that. But judging from the pomp around us, I think we should be respectful.”

“Indeed.” Haanōbō agreed. “This is a solemn and sacred day. One our father, Great Tarōbō, never imagined would come. That… we would needs replace two of the Directions. But such was our destiny, I can think no other way, for that would be too sad and painful. Come then… Akio, Aiko, brother Arangbo…”

“No ‘brother’ for Akio?” Arangbō laughed loudly, and Haanōbō’s head tilted, her golden-yellow eyes staring at him until he bit his lip. “Never mind. I suppose this is no time for teasing. At least you are in far better a state than your last ascent on foot, dear sister Haanōbō. There you were quite wretched, wings denuded of many feathers, your mask bent and battered, your robes and remaining feathers, even your hair, drenched in fetid mud…”

“All right, let the past go.” I interjected. “A bit of teasing is fine, but… keep it good-natured.”

“Protective, are you not?” Arangbō chuckled. “But I mean no disrespect. I merely illustrate how things have changed. Now… we ascend. Each step… consider well your duty, your affinity. Akio, you walk the path of Summer, of the South, of Flame and all that entails. An easy and meaningful route, considering what we guard here. You, Aiko…”

“I’m ready!” My sis stood straighter, hand up as if she was at school, her blue eyes sparkling with anticipation, like the sapphires she was named for.

“Your path is that of Autumn, to the West, and the Metal that forms the bones of the earth.”

“I like Autumn, it’s a pretty season. As for metal… thanks to everyone, I think I’ve got it.” She lowered her hand, now also slightly pink-cheeked, and balled it into a fist. “I’ve got this. The days of me bottling things at the last minute, tripping over my feet at the final hurdle, are done!”

“Love the confidence, Aiko-chan.” Kana approved, but Motoko had some other advice, echoed by Daiyu.

“Confidence is indeed a good thing, but do not let it stray to arrogance.”

“Yes, it is as Motoko says. Remain wise to both your strengths and your flaws, and you shall not be led astray by either.”

“I’ve been told.” my sis shrugged. “Yeah, my bad. I guess… I’m just eager to get started. So… shall we go?”

“Indeed. We four shall ascend. At each gate, bow to the flames, and meditate on your calling!” Arangbō repeated, and soon we began the climb, the rest of our companions following behind us. As we ascended, we reached the first torii gate, and I squeezed shut my eyes, concentrating on the flame within me, that of the hungry, ever greedy Foehn. Once I had contemplated that, and the others were ready too, we climbed further, again stopping at the numerous gates. Once we had reached around half-way, I glanced back out over Kyoto, the skies of the Boundary above streaked with silvery lightning.

The music and singing of the Tengu was growing louder as we slowly approached the summit, and from above, several shadows passed over us, and it began to rain, flower petals pouring down over us, many caught in the sparks of flame element given off by the braziers of the Sacred Flame, turning into fragrant motes of fire. Some smaller, hard objects also landed on and around us, and my sis nudged one with her foot.

“Rice, huh? Isn’t that…”

“Oh, rice is the basis of sake, and we believe in the spirit made from such a grain, and the meat of a boar, is sacred, and shows hospitality. After all, we are not merely welcoming you, but also… those who rule the Four Directions.”

“Okay, wow, no need to speak so fast. I get it. I do.” My sis rolled her eyes, before glancing at me, a small smile on her face.

“What is it?” I asked, and she merely shrugged.

“Nothing that matters, bro. Just… a little funny. Anyway, I’m totally calm, listening to everyone’s advice. So let’s go.”

As we climbed, at each gate, more petals and rice were showered down, and they burned and turned into sparkling motes of warm light. Behind us, Kana was cooing and making noises of amazement at the spectacle, while Motoko and Natsumi were whispering. As we neared the summit, the fallen petals and grain had formed a colourful pathway up the steps, and on the peak, waited Tarōbō, who was carrying his majestic staff and wearing his customary robes of yellow embroidered with crimson. Before him was set a large table, beside which rested many gourds of sweet-smelling sake, and it was also heaped with boar meet, freshly cooked, the fat sizzling and smoking, giving off a rich scent in the breeze that blew here, one of the few places in the Boundary the air wasn’t still.

“Come. Your climb, I hope it proved fruitful, and you understand the intimate connection between yourselves, the Season, the Direction, and your element?” Tarōbō was unusually jovial, and as we stepped onto the summit, Tengu from above, those that weren’t playing instruments, anyway, began to descend, lining up behind the heaped table.

“It did indeed… father.” Arangbō answered for us. “So now… we feast, for only through celebration can we know our duty!”

Tarōbō’s gold-inlayed crimson mask dipped as he nodded, and as Arangbō grabbed a bowl from the table, his father poured out the sake until it was near overflowing. Haanōbō was next, then I and my sis, and once we had ours, he bade us drink it down.

It’s good.

Beside me, my sis smiled. “Wow, yeah, this hits the spot. And my dad’s not here to tell me to stop. Still…” she winked at me. “…I’m not going to get drunk and spoil things.”

As Tarōbō was filling sake bowls for Kana and the others, Haru, professional as ever, produced a barrel of Fae alcohol from her storage, depositing it by the table, earning Tarōbō’s approval. “But do have some more.” Arangbō insisted.

Tarōbō refilled his and my sister’s bowls, but before I could have mine refiled, a Tengu, clearly female by her bodyline and robe which was gaping at the chest a bit, took mine with a giggle. Beside me, a male Tengu had taken Haanōbō’s bowl, and she let out a rather irritated sigh, like a bristling cat.

“Here. Rejoice.” Tarōbō passed us new cups, and we drank again. Before I could get another refill, as my sis was on her fourth bowl now, and despite her earlier boasts, was showing no sign of slowing down, a second Tengu snatched away mine, and soon Haanōbō and I were being handed fresh bowls by her father.

“I’m from Shirohebizumi, yeah?” Kana was whispering to Motoko and Natsumi, the Elves listening in with great curiosity, even as they drank the rich sake. “If you ask me…”

“Best not to say anything. It’s probably part of the ritual.” Natsumi shook her head and Motoko agreed.

“Yes, discretion is the watchword here.”

Huh? Finishing our third bowls, Tarōbō clapped his hands, and the giggling Tengu retreated. Behind the initial table, were arrayed many more, and again, other than the Tengu performing or serving, all were soon seated, though at the head table where we were, there were five seats, two on each side of Tarōbō.

“Today…” Tarōbō’s voice spread out over Mount Atago’s summit, the Tengu waiting on his every word, other than Arangbō, who bid my sis to sit down beside him. She needed little urging and cheekily drank more sake as she did so. Seeing that, Haanōbō and I sat on his other flank, listening, as Haru led the others to the table behind us, which was heaped with more steaming pork. “…is a day of renewal. The Directions, through treachery and envy, were disarrayed. But that cannot stand. Order must be above chaos. If the four corners are sundered, the centre cannot hold. And we must hold!”

The Tengu hooted and cheered at his words, and the music sped up, becoming harsher, more majestic.

“Now more than ever. Times of change are coming, so… the old constants must endure. To this end… those who seek the trial of Courageous Byakko, and Dutiful Suzaku… my… descendants, not through blood, but by honour and desire, and ties of… kinship, my dear, only daughter snatched from me and claimed…”

“…as a sister…” I muttered to myself, getting a knowing look from my own sister, but I wisely didn’t disrupt Tarōbō’s speech.

“…as kin, a sister, he says…” Tarōbō at least acknowledged me. “…but it is enough. We shall all be one family again, and under the auspices of Noble Seiryū, Dutiful Suzaku, Courageous Byakko, Wise Genbu, and the Divine Yellow Dragon, whose name we dare not speak carelessly… Mount Atago, and all we hold under our protection, shall once more thrive, free of fear and corruption!”

The Tengu hooted and applauded, stamping their feet and slamming their wings together like clapping. Motoko and the others in our party also applauded gently, though Daiyu, and oddly enough, Chen Na, seemed rather overawed, perhaps at the mention of the Yellow Dragon, which… that’s the Huánglóng isn’t it? Didn’t that feature on China’s first national flag, if I remember my history lessons correctly?

“Drink, eat and enjoy these moments!” Tarōbō boomed. “And then, the rituals, to centre our challengers, and attest their worthiness to stand before the Directions and the Immortal Dragon who holds the Centre.”

With raucous shouts and cries, the Tengu needed no second invitation, and they dug in, chattering happily. Beside Tarōbō, Arangbō did the same, and he urged my sister to eat as well, and she quickly seized the nearby meat and began to wolf it down, and her hands and mouth were soon smeared with rich juices as she munched on the heaped meat. I glanced behind me, to see Motoko, Natsumi and the others digging in, remembering the pleasure from last time we were here during a festival, and Motoko’s plate was truly heaped high, and I even heard several of the Tengu address her by her old nickname here, the ‘hearty eater’, to which she graciously nodded and thanked them with a warm smile.

“By the Moon, you got to enjoy this last time and I missed out?” Tear complained, Fae Elves, unlike their fantasy counterparts, having no issue with eating meat. The green-haired Elf was pouting, but her blue-haired companion merely laughed and patted her shoulder, leaving smears of grease on the leather.

“You’re here now, aren’t you, Tear? Just enjoy it. A break from the endless days, and not the last…”

I reached for the food in front of me, only for Tarōbō to halt me. “If you would, I have a wish to try some of the liquor your comrade graciously provided on your behalf. As… cultural exchange.”

“Father…” Haanōbō was being rather more informal, perhaps due to the circumstances. “…very much enjoys the variety of drinks your Territory provides. He ventures down the mountain rather more often than he should. Especially…” Her golden-yellow eyes were as flat as her tone. “…with the Directions in disarray.”

Tarōbō coughed, like an old uncle caught heading to the izakaya when he was supposed to be working. “Daughter, Akio, do… break open the barrel for me. I would take the first toast.” He produced a pair of small, heavy hammers and prybars.

Taking them, I glanced at Haanōbō, who dipped her wings, and soon we were before the barrel, a rather nice brandy, one of our finest new products. It didn’t take us long to broach a hole with the hammers, and then pry the lid off, and I could hear Kana muttering to the others behind us.

“Like I said, I’m from Shirohebizumi! That’s totally kagami-bi…”

“Hush now.” Motoko advised calmly, though the effect was spoiled a bit by the way she was devouring bites of meat, still somehow elegant despite her haste, between speaking. “Different lands and different times have varying traditions…”

I poured out some of the rich, fruity brandy for Tarōbō, before at his urgings filling Arangbō’s and Aiko’s cups, before we poured for ourselves. “I hope you remember your earlier words, sis?” I whispered, and she simply grinned knowingly.

“Don’t worry bro. I promised you I had this. I’m not putting pressure on myself, but… yeah, it’s fine. I’m using Ether Healing to keep it at just a nice enjoyable level. Besides…” She turned to Haanōbō and winked. “…I think this is quite the interesting experience. I’ll consider it a study session.”

Study? It seemed I was missing something here, but it surely wasn’t important. Tarōbō gestured for us to drink, and we raised our cups, and toasted those who ruled over the Directions, and the Huánglóng. Two female Tengu, those who had stolen my cups before, grabbed the barrel and hefted it, refilling our bowls, before heading to the guest tables and also pouring out the liquor.

“And a toast… to you, the Directions, whole again. A family.” Tarōbō declared, his golden eyes, a deeper, more metallic pair than Haanōbō sported, glancing at us all.

“I shall drink to that. Haanōbō, dearest sister. I was… unkind, but… in misery comes opportunity, no?”

“Oh, me now!” Aiko grinned, raising her own cup. “To my bro, who as usual means well but always gets into trouble!”

“Fine then. To you, dear sister.” I retorted, my own cup raised high. “May this be the day you prove I don’t have to constantly worry about you anymore.”

“Wow, low blow there. But you’ll see…”

“Then I…” Haanōbō paused. “…suppose I must toast you, brother Arangbō.”

“Yes. Such a shame. I expect you would rather raise your cup to another. But please do, father is waiting.”

“Then… older brother, you… were quite the nuisance, and indeed unkind, but… you were far from the worst of my brothers.”

“Oh, such lukewarm praise.” Arangbō boomed out with laughter, as we all drank deep. “If our Flame burned that cool, then we would be guarding Sacred Ice. Though that might suit you, dearest little sister, you are quite the frosty woman, as befits the Winter North. But you have thawed, over time…”

“Ice Queen, huh? Yeah, she seems the type.” my sis agreed. “But when they melt … no stopping them then, I reckon.”

“Hey now. That’s a little mean, comparing him to Fungbō. Though I admit, when I saw him mock and bully you, Haanōbō, I very much did want to teach him a lesson. Brothers should always treasure and protect their little sisters, even when they can be annoying…”

“Wow, slandering me much, bro?”

“Then you should take greater care of Haanōbō.” Arangbō teased. “Though while she is doubtless far older than you… a sister is still a sister, yes? Family is… family.”

“A toast to… that. Unity. Family.” Tarōbō interrupted our banter, and we raised our cups, tossing back the brandy.

“Then… eat. Though… perhaps first…” He clapped his hands and asked me a question. “Do you… have your mask that Haanōbō gave to you?”

“Yes, here.”

“Then… return it. You will need to receive it before the… trials. Not challenges, but… a ritual that speaks to what we honour, what we are.”

I produced the mask from my storage, and Haanōbō took it carefully. With a smile, Arangbō brought out another wrapped bundle. “This one is yours, little Aiko.”

“Hey, I’m only small compared to you, but… cool. If you’re giving it to me, then… there are no… expectations, right?”

“None at all, cautious girl. You are far too scrawny for my tastes regardless.”

“That hurts my feelings. I’ll make up for it by eating until I burst!” she countered, only for two female Tengu to step up and lead her away. Haanōbō was also grabbed by some more well-endowed girl Tengu, and males led Arangbō and I to a pair of small tents.

Once inside, I saw there was a set of black robes, resembling a more traditional Japanese kimono. I was confused, as surely they should have been red, but I changed quickly, and as I exited, I blinked, seeing that Arangbō was wearing a fancier bluish-green robe, with richer brown detailing.

“Oh, how dashing.” he mocked, and I snorted, only to see my sis come out next, followed by Haanōbō, who was a beat slower, head down, eyes lidded. They were both wearing white, my sis in a robe the same style as Arangbō’s, just with a rather more feminine cut. Her robe was embroidered with metallic golden threads around the bodice and hems, and she did look rather stunning. Haanōbō’s robe was actually closer to a kimono, like mine, just with a different sort of charm and elegance, and the same white as her wings, and lacked any such detailing.

“Ah. How… positively charming.” Arangbō snorted but got no answer from his sister. “Here.” He handed the bundle to Aiko, who unwrapped the cloth, revealing a crimson, long-nosed mask, with a rather feminine bent.

“Oh cool, it’s like a festival mask. I get it, you Tengu hate showing your faces to others.”

“Except those you are as close as family with, or perhaps even closer.” Arangbō agreed. “Obviously, we would not force you to adopt our ways, but while upon this mountain…”

“Yeah, it’s fine. When in Rome, and all that…” She slipped the mask on, her blue eyes peering through the artfully crafted eyeholes, which even had a fringe of golden eyelashes added. “How do I look, bro? Bet it’s a crime to cover my beautiful face, yeah?”

“You’re the one complaining guys hit on you because you’re cute.” I chuckled. “But yeah… you look fresh, sis. It’s different.” With her pigtails spilling out from behind the mask, she definitely cut a different figure to Haanōbō, who suddenly straightened up, her gaze meeting mine.

“You look nice too. But I thought black was your colour.”

“It is, of course. But this has… significance.”

“I bet it does, sis.” Aiko interrupted, earning a flat stare for an uncomfortably long moment, before Haanōbō shook her head, violet hair swaying.

“Not in that manner. Father is simply… making sure that those we are to see accept we are family. And… it is very beautiful a dress.” She plucked at the kimono-like robe with her fingers, admiring the way the cloth was draped. “I seldom have the leisure to adorn myself for fashion as you humans do.”

In her tent I could hear the other Tengu whispering quietly, and giggling. “Yeah, it definitely suits you. Matches your wings.” I agreed. “So…”

Haanōbō nodded and presented me my mask. I placed it over my face, feeling it settling on comfortably, and as my sis seized my free hand, she urged Haanōbō to take my other arm, which after a moment, she did, pulling close to me.

“I’m thirsty, bro. Wait, how do I drink through the mask?”

“You get used to it, the bottom part is rather slanted, making it easy to reveal nothing while taking sips and bites of food. Now, where is my escort, dear sisters?” Arangbō chuckled.

“I suppose some brothers are just more favoured.” Aiko winked at him. “Sorry, bigger bro.”

“Oh, how my heart bleeds.” he snorted. “We shall return then.” The music the Tengu were playing had changed, it was now softer, almost contemplative, more flutes and less drums. As we passed by the table where all my friends and lovers were gathered, Kana shook her head, letting out a shrill, exasperated cry.

“Oh, come on…”

“Yeah, I have to agree this time.” Natsumi giggled. “Akio, all you are missing is the family crest.”

“Do not be mistaken.” Haanōbō insisted, shaking her head, and I noticed her hair had also been braided at the back, and strung with white ribbons. “This is not… not what you are thinking!”

“It looks it to me.” Kana disagreed. “That’s dishonest. If you want him, just say so, instead of playing hard to get up to now, like you didn’t care.”

Uh? Wait a minute… I’d been to extremely few weddings, and Nishimorioka was a poor town, so a lot of the traditions were rather scaled back, but… “Hey, Haanōbō…”

“This is not a binding marriage ceremony. It is… symbolic. Just your word alone will not appease the Divine Yellow Dragon. Though family through conquest is a… rather strange idea.” She shook her head, still holding my arm. “Besides… it was… not unpleasant. As Winter North, my own happiness is secondary to my duties. I am not sure how you… balance yours so.”

“That is quite simple.” Motoko spoke for me, putting down her near-empty plate. “By sparing nothing of himself. We worry, but…” her smile was gentle, affectionate. “…we believe he is happy with his life, with us.”

“I am.” I promised them. “I wouldn’t change a single thing. No, that’s a lie. I’d change two things, no, I guess three.” I shook my head. “I’d have put a stop to Kondou Kazuo before he ever found you, Haru…”

“If so, we’d never have met, and your plans would be set back a long time…” she whispered, and I agreed with her.

“Yeah, you’ve been indispensable in so many ways, Haru. But… what I’ve received isn’t worth what you suffered. Besides, I believe we’d have met at some point and become friends, just like now. I’d definitely have wanted to meet the original Haru, before your tragedy, but… the Haru here before me now is the true Haru, the Haru I can never replace.”

Her face flushed, and she fanned herself with one hand. “If you say things like that, Akio, especially with such an expression, you’ll kill me with kindness. No, wait, I’m already dead, aren’t I? If so, why is my heart that shouldn’t be beating racing?” She then pursed her lips, her brown eyes glowing a mystical blue, the energy of the Sacred Flame leaking. “Of course, flirting with me while you’re wearing wedding kimonos and clinging to another woman is so very like you. If we were like that, your womanising would be the death of me.”

“I’m just…” I began, and she smirked.

“I know. I’m merely teasing you. So… the second change?”

“Obviously, I’d have stopped Uchida Yamato from his stupidity and saved the lives of our trainees.” That way, Mine-san and the other Chosen of Susanoofaction would still be alive. “And lastly…” I smiled solemnly at Haanōbō. “I’d have beaten Fungbō so bloody he’d have been unable to do the foolish thing he did. Then my sis could have taken his spot as Autumn West in his place, and you wouldn’t be missing two brothers.”

“If you wished that, then…” I heard a soft sigh from Haanōbō, whose wing curled around my back, and I could feel the gentle touch of feathers through the thin silk of my robe. “…things might have been rather different, yes. But what happened is already set in stone, and the past can never be rewritten. Not even the Divine Yellow Dragon, with all its might, can do such. Still…” She tilted her head, reaching up, just a little, and tugged aside her mask, revealing the bottom half of her face only to me, and her bare mouth, her thin, delicate lips pink. “…I thank you for your thoughts. They are very… brotherly.”

My sis burst out laughing at that. “Yep. Looks like you’ve struck out at your own wedding, bro. A tale for the ages…”

“You’re saying that, Aiko-chan?” Kana was incredulous. “I’d have thought you, of all people… anyway…” she coughed, perhaps wishing to change the subject. “What about Tsukiko? Shouldn’t you want to change her death too?”

It was Prince Shōtoku who spoke up for me. “Tsukiko-sama would not wish to change anything. Without such a shocking end and her rebirth, she does not believe she could have ever put her desires on the same level as her duty. While she mourns the innocent dead… she believes in being a little selfish now. As you all should be.”

“Yeah.” I agreed. “Obviously if I could have stopped the Kyoto attacks, saved a thousand lives, I’d do so, but… where does such wishing end? I’d best not be greedy and only wish for the happiness of those within my arms.”

“Within your arms, is it?” Emperor Ōjin’s smile was amused, as he stroked his small, neat beard with one hand. “If you wish the Shinzen kekkon, the vows before the Gods, I am not merely an Emperor and a Kami, but also a priest too. I could officiate?”

There was laughter around us, some of it nervous, and catcalls from many of the Tengu, quite a few of the males expressing disappointment, and Haanōbō trembled a little against my side. Seeing that, I shook my head. “Come on, that’s not funny. Don’t mock her. She’s just heeding her father’s request and doing what is needful. She’s my family even without such, and I’ll protect her from harm, and also from mockery, if needs be.”

“I’m so damn jealous, Tear.” Bell was complaining, and her fellow Elf slapped her on the back, commiserating.

“Me too, but… we’re archers, Bell. Hunters as well as Way-Wardens. One day our arrows of love will bring him down! We’re Elves, there’s no rush for us, is there?”

“No, but… maybe I’m infected by mortal ways, but I’ve grown to hate boredom and waiting for things!”

Yeah. I really have to have a heart-to-heart with those two. But… it’s hard…

“Your sarcasm is most annoying, Ōjin. But since this is a sacred day, I shall allow your insolence.” Tarōbō banged the butt of his staff on the stony ground and bade us return to our seats. I led Haanōbō back, and now I really felt all eyes upon us, and even though this wasn’t actually a wedding, in the truest sense, I was feeling the pressure. Damn, my actual wedding is going to be a very stressful affair! I’ve no one to blame but myself, yet still…

“Careful, don’t get grease on your kimono.” I warned Haanōbō, and she laughed.

“I am not such a messy eater as my brother.” Indeed, Arangbō was devouring the food ravenously, and my sis had slid away from him a little, so as not to get her robes stained, and she was trying to work out how to eat beneath her mask.

“Still…” her voice was quiet, barely audible even for my ears over the music. “I thank you for your concern. It is… rather pretty.”

“I imagine it’s a pain finding suitable attire when you have wings, but I’m sure Natsumi’s family would be more than happy to make you some nice, cute clothes. Just charge it to me. Can’t a brother treat his sister now and then?”

“He sure can. Speaking of…” my sis chuckled, though it sounded a bit weird, as the mask muffled it a little. “…I won our wager, didn’t I?”

“Yeah, but I still have your Christmas gift…” I teased. “And Eri… she’s got three over you, hasn’t she?”

“Don’t remind me. She’s a devil, you know! A real yandEri for sure! She left her phone out on a page about home appliances just so I could find it!”

Appliances… oh. “She’s just teasing, and you bring it on yourself.”

“I know I do. But you’re to blame too.” Aiko disagreed. “Anyway, yeah, Haanōbō, might as well let bro spoil you. It’s as much for him as it is for you. A bro that isn’t spoiling me… or I guess you, and there’s also her now…” She glanced down at my waist where Tsurugi was sleeping as a sword. “Suzu… the little Goblin girl too… our family sure is getting large. And then there’s Asha’s pregnancy… mom’s delirious with joy all the time…”

After that, the girls began to chat, and I exchanged a wry glance with Arangbō, who merely quaffed brandy, smacking his lips. Yeah, say nothing. We men know anything we do say will just get us into trouble anyway.

The feast continued for another hour. Natsumi and Motoko were challenged to eating contests, and despite having already stuffed themselves, defeated several challengers, and now they had faced defeat, they were sparring with each other in an open space beside the festivities, putting on a show, to work off the calories. Haru had been drinking with Chen Na, the Prince and the Emperor, while Kana was consoling the Elves, who were rather tipsy, long ears drooping, and Daiyu was demonstrating some moves of her own to an audience of curious Tengu.

“I like this a lot more than last time…” I reminisced, and Haanōbō nodded.

“As do I. I am suffering no disgrace this time. I may be embarrassed, yet not shamed.”

“I’m glad.” I smiled, even knowing she couldn’t see it beneath my mask, but as her eyes locked with mine, I hoped she understood. “Because I’m embarrassed too. To think these were fake wedding rites. Seriously though, I didn’t claim you that way. I promise.”

“I know that well enough.” Her wings dipped. “Our first meeting was… a mistake… and events beyond that tragic, yet… your consideration for me was far from unpleasant. Just as your sister is pleased by your care…” Aiko nodded at that, pigtails bouncing. “…as am I. So do not think I was unwilling to endure such ridicule as today. Besides…” She glanced down at her arm, which had been linked with mine. “I am a woman, even as a Direction. The Winter may be cold, but I am not icy, no matter what my arrogant brother says. I too desire to wear beautiful clothes, and… experience the joys of womanhood. So… I shall remember this day.”

“I see. Well then, definitely take my advice and have Natsumi’s family take care of your wardrobe. And after Pilgrimage, you can come play in the Material more often, as Nie Ling won’t be killing herself transporting people constantly back and forth…”

As we chatted, eating and drinking, Haanōbō listening to me intently, occasionally responding, my sis and Arangbō interjecting when they felt amused enough to do so, the feast came to an end, and Haanōbō and I were whisked away again, to change out of our finery…

That was fun, and… probably the most honest conversation I’ve had with Haanōbō since we met. She’s… surprisingly womanly, once you get past her… stoic… exterior. Now then, the fun’s over, so I’m curious to see what happens next…

***

Haanōbō and I returned. She was wearing her customary black with orange embroidery now, though the robe, like Aiko’s, was rather more feminine in style and prettier than it was functional. I’d changed into a grand robe of crimson cloth, with yellow patterns along the cuffs, hems and chest. Investigating them, they seemed a little like Talismans and were probably related to Onmyōdō. I daresay Uncle Daimon would enjoy this, but he’s returned to the Imperial Palace in Tokyo now he’s satisfied the Regalia and Yukiko are safe in my care…

The four of us were lined up before the Sacred Flame, our friends in the front row watching on with amusement, as Tarōbō spoke, staff in hand. “We have feasted, upon the flesh of sacred boars, their lives giving meaning to ours as sustenance, allowing us to burn unabated, as the Sacred Flame does. It is a tradition, a grand one… to send worthy warriors to hunt the boars, bringing back only what we need, never too many, never too much, never dripping with greed like…” he paused, glancing at the Emperor and the Prince, two Kami with wry smiles on their handsome faces.

“…fools.” he finished. “But just as… the symbolic can be real….” Tarōbō’s masked face turned our way, and under his gaze Haanōbō dipped her head. “…so too, when we are short on time, can we symbolise the hunt.”

The Tengu cheered, and the musicians, who were now different to before, the Tengu having swapped so all could feast and celebrate, intensified the music, the beat of the drums like thunder, or a rapid heartbeat.

“So then…” Tarōbō declared loudly. “…our boar shall run, and you shall all hunt it! An hour, to bring down the prey. Any strike landing cleanly on a vital area shall count as a kill. So… who shall run?”

“Not it!” my sis declared, pointing at me, and with a chuckle, Arangbō did likewise. Haanōbō was slower, but moments later she too was gesturing my way.

“Fine then. But I’ll not be easy to take down.” I promised, remembering the time I’d caught a boar here on the lower slopes.

“In that case…” Bell cried. “…this is our chance, Tear! Akio, you like to gamble, so… how about whoever strikes you down gets a date with you, a long, leisurely date!” Beside her, Tear nodded, smiling brightly, and they had both unslung their longbows.

“Hey, that’s not fair, is it? What use is that for me?” my sis protested, and Kana shook her head.

“Not exactly true, don’t you think, Aiko-chan? You liked Christmas Eve just fine, and don’t press me on how I know. Besides, you could always give your prize to someone else, couldn’t you?”

“Oh… yeah, you’re right.” My sis winked, the effect a little disturbing as she was masked. “I’m all in then!”

“It is truly useless for us men…” Arangbō brandished his heavy, metal-tipped staff for emphasis.

“Not all men, if Aimi-chan has anything to say about it…” my sis giggled, before she shrugged. “I’m sure my bro will give you a suitable prize if one of you wins…”

“Eri’s going to be mad, Aiko-chan…” Kana warned, a smile on her face, and my sis shrugged, unconcerned.

“It doesn’t matter, nobody’s winning the prize but me, and even if by some miracle I lose, one of you hungry girls will get it, I’ve no doubt. Wow, it’s like watching hyenas eyeing a juicy, helpless rabbit.” Indeed, Motoko, Natsumi, Daiyu, the Elves, their gazes had all narrowed onto me, and I felt the instinctive fear of being prey. Tarōbō seemed greatly pleased by this turn of events, so I stood straighter, using body language to convey my emotions since my face too was hidden behind a mask.

“Fine then. But here I’m the only one who doesn’t get anything…”

“Don’t be a spoilsport, bro. Play along.” My sis spoke up, seeing the imploring faces of Bell and Tear. “I’m sure if nobody catches you, you could ask any girl here for a date and they can’t say no. Uh… apart from Haru-chan, okay? No being a dick, bro…”

“You know I wouldn’t.” I grumbled. “Well, it’s not like I need a date, but… hey, I’m up for a challenge. Might clear my head, dodging you all.”

“Excellent. It is decided. Normally, you should have a thirty second start to flee down the mountain, but alas, you have no wings…” Tarōbō’s tone was oddly light.

“Thirty is plenty. After all…” I turned and accelerated, moving at tremendous speed as I leapt down the mountainside, dodging trees and thorny bushes, the impacts dispersed by my strong body. Tilting my head back, I called up to them. “…I’ve got crystal element now…” Blessing Of Indestructible Jade is running, boosting all my stats a lot. I’m not full yet, it’s still building within me, but… it’ll do.

“Oh damn, sometimes I forget just how absurd my… or maybe our… bro is, right Haanōbō?” My sis nudged her with one elbow, her blue eyes shining with excitement. “Anyway, someone count down. Let’s hunt dear moonstone the boar!”

“Nineteen. Eighteen. Seventeen…” Kana did the honours, and up above, Tengu were flocking, brandishing bows and javelins, and even Haru was readying herself. I met her distant gaze, and her thoughts sounded within me, quite an impressive feat due to the rapidly expanding distance between us.

I’m getting stronger, of course. Who isn’t? As long as we can still see each other, I can always connect. Anyway, no need to fret, I understand what sort of man you are. As for my participation, I’m simply doing it because this is an important moment for you and Aiko-chan. So… see if you can dodge everything for a whole hour. Good luck!

Thanks. Yeah, might be best if you win, at least you’ll probably give the prize to someone sensible, who knows what my sis would do with it. Anyway…

“Five. Four. Three…” Kana’s excitement was building, and the ground under her feet liquified, forming a slippery, viscous layer, similar to a mudslide. Or maybe that should be a lahar, considering we’re on a mountain topped by a Flame?

“This shall be most entertaining…” Daiyu declared, her bells suddenly in hand.

“Two… one… and go!” Kana cried, heeding her own words and surfing down the steep slope on her muddy wave, pursuing me. The Elves raced down on fleet feet, and overhead, the Tengu blotted out the lightning-tossed skies above as they flocked towards me. Arangbō and Haanōbō joined them, and even Chen Na had been swept up in the competition, it seemed, only the Prince and the Emperor remaining composed by Tarōbō’s side, observing.

Arrows started to fly towards me, propelled by jade sparkles of wind element, and I changed direction, the motions more than enough to easily snap ligaments and even bone in someone with stats below a few hundred in Fortitude and Might. Blades of wind and other projectiles were heading my way, and up above, the Tengu were closing in as they rode the winds, descending the mountain like falling daggers.

Still, I found myself grinning. Compared to some of the troublesome problems of the last days, this was a relaxing diversion. Come on then, sis, everyone. Do your worst. Catch me if you can!