On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

“This is the first time in years I’ve been free for new year.” Kana told me, as we walked, our arms linked together, through the expanded grounds of Shirohebizumi shrine. We’d taken a pause (and advantage of Arisu-san, honestly, but she was happy enough, since she was finally free of her harsh Pilgrimage duties, so she complied with minimal acerbic grumbling) to return to our estate and change into traditional kimonos. Ordinarily, due to the winter chill, we’d also be wearing coats, the women often in rather cute ones layered with fake fur, but with our stats, we could show off our kimonos proudly. I was in blue, as my sis insisted on it for some reason, but since everyone said I looked great, it wasn’t a problem. Though I do think it’s a shame I didn’t get to see what my sis, Eri and the others were wearing, but Kana was desperate to get to spend some extra time with me… I could have checked via Eri’s or Shaeula’s thoughts, of course, but my curiosity wasn’t enough to spoil their fun over.

Kana was in a white kimono, with fiery crimson higanbana flower patterns, matching the hairclip I’d brought her back from Las Vegas, which she still often wore. Damn, that seems so long ago now. Life… was simpler then, that’s for sure. Not so fulfilling, though. Seeing me paying attention to her words, and also admiring her beauty, she tightened her grip on my arm, and her smile broadened.

“Normally Keomi-chan and I would have to attend the shrine, but this year my parents and grandfather said I could go on a date with you. Even Iroha-chan and Nana-chan agreed to help out in their capacity as shrine maidens. I suppose they really are now, not just part-time help. I’m glad I don’t have to listen to their complaints about how they were left out of things before. Oh…” Kana continued. “…Keomi-chan’s gone with Hotene-chan. She’s keeping her company, considering it’s the first new year since… well, you know.”

I nodded, and Kana finished up. “Oh, and Asami-chan and Mio-chan went to Hikawa-Kawagoe, the traitors! Choosing Ren-kun over me…”

“Isn’t that what you’re doing?” I teased playfully, and Kana sniffed, pretending to be upset.

“It’s totally different. You’re you, Ren-kun is Ren-kun. They did drag poor Marika-chan along too, but it’ll do her good to have some fun, I suppose. Before she spends the rest of winter break with her family back home. Anyway…” Kana changed the subject. “I’ve never seen Shirohebizumi so crowded with worshippers. Though I guess most of them are gawkers. It’s no wonder, we have Asha’s Tree, and Tsukuruyama was hardly subtle.”

We’d had to draft in the Fae to help out here, as the mass of visitors was indeed spectacular. Still, the maid corps we’d been training were competent enough to handle the duties of shrine maidens, giving out fortune slips and selling good luck charms, blessed arrows, wooden ema plaques, and also here, small statuettes of white snakes, and replica torcs. Oh, and selling hot amazake and festival foods.

In addition, we had weaselkin warriors amongst the crowd. They were proving popular with tourists, and were constantly hassled for pictures, but they were also on hand to prevent any trouble. I doubt we’ll see a major attack, though we’re taking suitable precautions anyway. More likely there will be pickpockets and bag snatchers in such a crowd, with ready distractions. But we won’t let today be spoiled for the guests of the shrine…

“We should go and get our fortunes before it gets too crowded. What am I saying? It’s already packed…” Kana sighed. “…anyway, this is… nice? Is that the word for it?”

“I’d prefer romantic.” I chuckled as we moved through the crowds. “It is a date, after all.”

“I know, but… nice is… well, nice.” Kana’s usual eloquence seemed to have deserted her somewhat, and as I raised an eyebrow, she blushed and clung closer to me. “I do feel my heart racing, but I guess, after last night, it’s a rather soothing sensation. That was crazy. I don’t know how Princess… oh, sorry, how Eleanor was so brazen. I guess it’s like they say and foreigners are more decisive?”

“Hardly.” I disagreed, but I understood what Kana meant. “Ellie was pushing herself. She always does. But I like that about her. She’s earnest in whatever she does, even something as frivolous as last night.”

“Don’t call it that. To her, to me, to all of us, it’s the most important thing.” Kana knuckled my head with her free hand gently.

“Oh, I know. To me too.” I agreed. “But what I mean is, nobody would complain if she sat it out. But since she decided she likes me, she’ll do her very best, even if embarrassed or ashamed. You… didn’t have to do anything either, but… I can’t say I wasn’t thrilled.”

Kana’s flush deepened. “I bet you were. Honestly… it would have been extremely easy to just go with the flow and give myself to you. Right there, in front of everyone.” Now Kana’s face matched the colour of the flowers on her kimono. “And I’d not be unhappy, but… then this walk would have a different flavour. Don’t worry…” She leaned up, kissing my lips softly, and I tasted a faint flavour of a subtle lipstick she must have been using. “…soon. There are just a few more things I want to experience, want you to experience first. But this… it’s definitely one of my dream dates. I bet you are a bit jaded though.”

“Oh? How so?” I asked, and she snorted.

“You know why. Eri and Aiko were with you back in your hometown, remember?”

“Yeah. But back then, I was too foolish to see the treasure I had.” I was the one sighing now. “And they never dressed up as beautifully as you, Kana. And…” I hurriedly forestalled her. “…you’re as beautiful as they are. And don’t lose to anyone.”

“Liar.” Kana giggled, pleased despite her harsh words. “I lose to Tan, Shiro, Tsukiko… Mae. Honestly, Hyacinth now too… Asha, Shaeula, if one likes petite…”

“Hey. Don’t put yourself down.” I tightened my hug. “Comparing humans to spiritual beings is unfair. And Shiro and Tsukiko are a special case. But… you’re more beautiful now than when I met you, and honestly, you know I couldn’t look away from you even then…”

“True. I thought you a pervert, using your wealth to seduce cute young beauties like Shaeula, and that you’d definitely lust after me. I’m not far wrong.” she teased me playfully. “But I came to love you. I don’t care if it’s the suspension bridge effect. What I feel, I know…”

“Yeah. I liked you a lot too. But I couldn’t allow it to be love.” The crowd were taking pictures of us on their phones, which was a bit of a nuisance, but I was well used to it now. Fortunately, they also parted before us, perhaps in awe, or maybe respect. “Because… quite frankly, because…”

“You’re bad with girls? Or at least you were.” Kana finished for me. “I didn’t need you, so you felt I’d be happier elsewhere? Love’s not about need. It’s about emotion.”

“Yes. And I know that now.” I agreed.

Kana nodded at that, her expression suddenly wry. I’d promised myself I’d never wallow in the guilt of loving many women, but it was hard sometimes, especially since the unexpected confessions of the last few days. Even so, I was resolved, more firmly so than ever. The events in the cave, and what happened after, had firmed up the last cracks in my will.

“I don’t regret loving you, Kana. I never will. And I’ll take things as slow as you want. But I don’t want you to think I’m not eager to go further.”

“Oh, don’t I know it. And I feel flattered, and delighted.” Kana kissed my cheek softly. “Me too. And that scares me a little. I worry I’ll become a lust-crazed idiot like I used to criticise other girls my age for being. But I suppose… I always have my work. It’s madness, thinking about it like that. But… I’ve come to love the satisfaction of making things. If it’s for our future, anyway…”

“Oh, how adorable. Kana-chan, you’ve changed so much!” Nana-chan, the younger of the shrine maiden sisters, cried out, as we approached the booth she was manning, where fortune strips were sold. “I don’t hate it though, not at all!”

She was short and had a brown ponytail pulled behind her head, making her seem fresh and cheerful. The shrine maiden hakama suited her well enough too, but I had Kana jabbing me with her elbow, so I simply smiled politely. All right. I know I’m not going to wallow in guilt anymore, but I’m not interested in just any cute girl who crosses my path! I have standards!

“Nana-chan, don’t embarrass me. There are other worshippers and… tourists, I suppose? Well-wishers, maybe?” Kana seemed unsure. Instead of having to queue up for a long time, we’d made it to the front thanks to the crowd letting us by, and with my expanded vision I could see the lines forming again. “Anyway…” Kana finished. “Best behaviour. We’ll take two fortunes.”

“All right. Two Omikuji coming up!” Nana-chan declared cheerfully, and soon we were holding the traditional paper slips. We stepped aside to let others get theirs, and Nana-chan cheerfully greeted the next in line.

Opening up my paper, I grinned. If I got this one, Shaeula must get one that has a printing error, giving her luck above what’s possible… Kana, however had frozen, face white and red alternatively. “Hey, it’ll be okay. It’s only a superstition. If you got Dai-kyō, Great Misfortune, then think of it as an opportunity for growth…”

“No, I didn’t. I got… damn that Nana-chan, I’m going to pull her braid out by the roots!” Kana, now scarlet, pressed the slip into my hand, and I grinned, before changing it to a sympathetic smile.

“Dai-kichi Anzan Kigan…” I could see that the later two words had been added to the strip of paper. “Well, you are the daughter of a fertility shrine. Besides, it doesn’t count if they rig the draw…”

“I thought you said it was superstition?” Kana pouted. She then retrieved the fortune slip and tucked it away in her drawstring bag. Not that she’s wearing that for anything but fashion, as her valuables, as well as a pair of comfy shoes to change into later, as wearing geta sandals is painful if you walk a lot, even if her stats mean it won’t give her blisters, is stored in her ring.

“Never mind. Great Fortune And A Healthy Delivery? I’m not even pregnant… forget that. What did you get?”

“Dai-kichi, of course. Here.” I gave her my winning fortune. As she seemed surprised, I kissed her, and this time our tongues entwined, Kana not caring others were watching. As we parted, Kana’s lipstick now slightly disarrayed, I winked. “I don’t need it. I’ve already got my Great Blessing. Here.” I patted her head, and she snorted.

“That’s so cheesy. If it came from anyone else I think I’d be sick. But I know… that you mean it.” Kana was red-faced, but I nodded.

“Indeed I do. I have more blessings than most, more than I deserve. So… next year, I’m going to strive to finally live up to what I’ve been entrusted with. Walk with me, Kana?”

“Always. I told you. I’m not an easy girl. And when I make up my mind, I keep it.”

With those bold yet tender words hanging in the air, we walked around the site, taking in all the changes. The ruined training school was being rebuilt at pace, and since this area was now effectively merged with the lower Astral, we had made plans to revamp it and make it taller, since Asha’s Trees had already shattered planning and ordinance laws about the heights of structures, even a twenty-story building would be dwarfed.

We laughed and joked with each other, exchanging kisses, and after a while, Kana said she was hungry, so we headed for one of the stalls, only to run into a group of acquaintances.

“If it isn’t Akio and Kana? Good evening… or morning? I don’t know quite what to say…” Christina grinned at me. She was walking again, though her gait was unsteady and her face, under what seemed to be carefully applied makeup, was rather pale. Still, she looked… that’s quite the change.

“…I often did all-nighters for my research, but to stay up simply to celebrate, I don’t hate it. Now then…” she glanced at Bethany, who was beside her, before closing her mouth, but by the way she was trembling and fidgeting, she was waiting for my comment. Kana sighed in defeat, and I felt the same way.

“Christina, you look… different, certainly. Not bad though. It’s a lovely kimono, and you’ve changed your hair.” Indeed, Christina was wearing more fashionable glasses, her hair was braided and mot messily uncombed like usual and she was indeed wearing makeup, heavier than I found attractive, but the reason for that was obvious. Her appearance was rounded off by a rose-gold toned kimono, quite a rarity, likely a custom order. Her sash was white and seeing her with a matching kinchaku bag like Kana carried, and in geta sandals… yeah, it made her feel totally different.

“I guess you look good.” I finished, and Christina looked as if she was fit to burst, but after a glance at Bethany, who was in a black kimono with purple clouds as a pattern, and who also looked rather fetching, it being always interesting seeing Westerners dressing up for festivals, Christina took a deep breath.

“Thank you. I did make the effort. But not just me…” Her smile was lopsided as she gestured to the others accompanying her. I nodded at Zachary, who was wearing white, maybe to match his sister, as well as… yeah, awkward.

“Everyone here, especially little Aine, are very pretty. I never particularly thought about it…” Bethany hissed quietly, but Christina merely waved her free hand. “…but it’s better to be beautiful than not, isn’t it? Now come on, say something nice about everyone, like a gentleman.”

Wow. I aped my sister subconsciously. I’m getting lectured by Christina, of all people. She’s not wrong though…

“You are very cute, Aine.” I smiled at the little Goblin, who was in a pale cream kimono. A half-dozen Goblins were with her, and I recognised one of them as her protector. They bowed politely, and the air they gave off now they’d regained their horns and their skin tones had mellowed was actually quite noble.

As the little Goblin smiled at the compliment, face still smeared with sauce, which Christina reached down and cleaned off, using a handkerchief, and not the sleeve of her yukata, like I’d seen her do with her lab coat at times, I turned to the others. “You’re looking great as well, Mizuki-chan. And…”

“Don’t fucking say it. Sorry. But I don’t understand it.” Abe Hotaru-san grumbled. She was in red and white, though it wasn’t as fetching as Mizuki-chan’s deep crimson.

“What’s not to understand?” Mizuki-chan crossed her arms imperiously, looking smug. “You’re not his type. You got shot down…”

“For someone who’s just a pair of big jugs you’re awfully fucking cheeky…” Hotaru-san shot back, and Christina chuckled, leaning in close to whisper to me.

“They’ve been like this all night. The other two Takakura sisters have gone home, but they let Mizuki come out to play. I learn a lot, observing them…”

“Don’t learn the wrong lessons…” I reflexively warned, and Christina snickered softly, and continued talking, even as the two argued, Hotaru-san swearing profusely, Mizuki-chan on the offensive for once.

“I know. I’m a quick learner. I’m proud of that. Anyway, I’m feeling a lot better, so if you need me to Donate any more parts…”

“No way. Wait until you’re fully healthy again.” I shook my head.

“Oh. It makes my heart race…” She then held up a hand, forestalling my retort. “I know it well. You care for me purely as a useful tool, or the way you care for anyone, because you are kind. I’m ot so deluded to think it genuine affection. But… I shall still take it. Beggars can hardly be choosers, after all. But do still use me. I understand your mindset well. Prison, or even death, might make the victims of my experiments, their families, feel relief, but it won’t help me atone. So I’ll suffer and grow and make a difference.” She winked, and I nodded, not needing to say anything more.

“Come on, how did you do it?” Kana was asking Bethany. “She’s like a different woman.”

“I hate to say it…” Bethany grumbled. “…but she is a genius. Once she realised the benefits, she started listening to my advice. Of course, go too far off-script, and she falls to pieces, but the more she learns, the better she is at extrapolating how she needs to behave. The worst thing is…”

She breathed into Kana’s ear quietly, and Kana let out a knowing giggle.

“I bet. Don’t worry. Akio’s already learned how to toss out the trash.” Unlike Bethany she didn’t keep her voice down.

“Hey, that a fucking dig at me? Shit, from your perspective, I probably deserve it, but fuck me, what’s wrong with what I did? I just fucking offered to be a concubine, yeah? It’s not like he’s not horny, is it? He let the little ninja firecracker blow him right there in front of me…”

As Mizuki-chan reddened, Christina scowled, and shocked me with her next words. “Hotaru, if you persist, then I am afraid there will be punishment. Aine is too tender to hear such. It’s bad for her education.”

Hotaru-san wasn’t the only one blinking. I did too, the shift in perspective shocking. Seeing that, Christina blushed, looking oddly shy.

“I know what you are thinking. Normally it’s me who can’t read the time nor the place. But I can’t continue like that, can I? Now let me answer you, Hotaru.” Christina winked, before addressing the fiery young woman. “It’s because there’s no sincerity. I think that’s it.”

“Shit. I’m sincere.” Hotaru-san grumbled, and it was Mizuki-chan who hammered home the final nail.

“What? In being a kept woman? Sorry, Hotaru-chan, but your body probably isn’t worth enough for him to upset Kana-chan and the others. Not if your heart doesn’t come with it.”

“That’s right. The little ninja firecracker… as you put it…” Kana chided. “…might be even more brazen than you, but she’s infinitely more likeable. Because she loves Akio. Why is a bit of a question, but… who can ever rank why in love?” Kana shook her head, holding me tight as if to prove a point. “I’m not saying relationships need that to start with passion and love, not all the time. Interest is often enough. Motoko and Natsumi… I wouldn’t dare say Hinata, as she claimed she loved Akio from the moment she saw him… weren’t exactly love matches at first. But when they fell for him, he responded. You… sure, you might find Akio handsome, probably even like him a bit, but… you only love yourself, Hotaru-chan. Eri would see to it you were… removed.”

No kidding. I have a horrible vision of coming back to find Eri cleaning off her axe in the sink one day. I’m sure she wouldn’t, but… yeah, I’d rather not put her in a position where she feels she has to take action. Even if all she did was throw her out and threaten to punish her, I still don’t want Eri bearing that burden. Not because of poor choices on my end…

“If I may…” Christina added. “…Hotaru, my situation is worse. At least before, he had no cause to despise you. But I feel I must add my emotions are love. Deep lust, confused chaos, wistful longing, endless excitement… oh, it’s such a fresh tangle I can hardly bear it…”

“Yes, but… that was Haru kickstarting your brain, somehow fixing what wasn’t quite right. You don’t know the world, nor the truth of your own feelings…” I insisted, and she shocked me again by agreeing.

“Oh, very much so. And you are right. Perhaps when I know more about myself and these feelings, I’ll change again. But… the truth at this moment is I am as genuine as I can be. But… and do stop glowering, Beth, I haven’t forgotten…” She took a deep breath. “…I’ll stop pressuring you. Of course, all I ask is that you do not assume my feelings have changed, just because I am being less annoying. I simply… don’t want you to hate me anymore. Is that so wrong?”

“It might be.” Zachary spoke up hesitantly. “You… did bad things.”

“Yes. I did. But if there’s no hope of redemption, I think that rather sad.” Christina’s words were quiet, before she waved one hand. “Now, we are bothering Akio and Kana on their date.”

“Hang on a minute…” Mizuki-chan puffed out her cheeks, grabbing my sleeve. “…just because you haven’t been staring, don’t think you can fool me! I know you can widen your vision with aether! I know bigger chests look stupid in kimonos! You can laugh, I know you want to!”

Kana was the one to giggle, shaking her head, signalling for me to deal with it. I looked Mizuki-chan up and down, and her face reddened, but she stared back defiantly. I then reached out a hand, and she flinched, shutting her eyes, only to open them in shock as I patted her head.

“You’re a very funny girl, Mizuki-chan. And yes, you’re beautiful tonight. The kimono suits you well. That deep red is definitely your colour, it sets off your hair and eyes wonderfully. But honestly, what answer can I even give which won’t get me in trouble?”

“He’s got you fucking there!” Hotaru-san snorted, pleased she wasn’t the only one getting criticised, but she was mistaken.

“But regardless, you’re like a cute younger sister to me, Mizuki-chan. You and Kiaria-chan. Katsuki-san too, I guess. I like you because you’re amusing. But seriously, not every man is a pervert only out for you because you’ve got a large chest. Now, my sis…” I was aware of Aine listening, so I kept my tone light and my explanation clean. “…she’s got a similar problem. She wishes she was bigger. Mom’s on the larger side, being British, but Aiko, she’s… not small, but certainly more modest than a lot of women we hang around with nowadays. So don’t denigrate yourself. What you have is who you are. And you’ll be happy when you find love one day, and they adore your figure. So have more confidence, okay? Stand tall and proud! Besides… I’ve high expectations for you in the upcoming year, Mizuki-chan. You and your sisters too. So… let’s do our best together in the future, okay?” I patted her head again, and Kana snickered.

“This was fun, but Akio and I are on a new year date, so we’ll be leaving. I’ll see some of you later, won’t I?”

As Bethany and Zachary nodded, I said my own farewells, strolling off, leaving a crimson-faced Mizuki-chan behind us. After a moment though, she put on what she surely considered a proud expression, raised her hand high, and waved.

“She’s so transparent. And you know it…” Kana punched my arm playfully. “She’s definitely amusing though. Reminds me of Keomi-chan, in some ways. But you’re expecting a lot from them, are you?”

“Yeah. The three of them have the potential to take a lot of pressure off Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan and help everyone go further. With Rose’s assistance…” I paused suddenly. “You know what, that’s talk for another time. It’s not romantic enough.” I pulled Kana close again. “Tonight we’re on a date, so I’ll at least try not to talk about other women.”

“And you’ll fail. But I don’t mind.” Kana snuggled against my shoulder as we walked. I grabbed us some hot amazake from one of the weaselkin maids, and we enjoyed walking around and chatting, the warm, barely alcoholic drink warming us up. The crowds were a little much, but we were in our own world, until Kana looked at her watch, a little sadness crossing her features.

“I guess all good things must end. It’s time to hand you off. There they are now…” She waved her free hand, and Natsumi cheerily returned it, while Motoko gave an elegant bow. They were wearing inversed blue-and-white kimonos, while behind them…

“Don’t be shy, Kanami-chan.” Natsumi pushed forward the younger girl, who was wearing a yellow kimono with black bird patterning.

“Oh, my apologies!” She gave the Adamant salute, but I shook my head.

“Don’t worry, we’re all friends here, you know. Besides…” I gazed at her sympathetically. “…it’s been rough for you, hasn’t it?”

“It… it has.” Kanami-chan admitted, her expression faltering for a moment, before she adopted her usual cheery appearance. “But… I won’t look back. I can’t.”

“And you won’t have to. Motoko and Natsumi will look after you, won’t you?” I asked, knowing the answer, and before they could reply in the affirmative, Kanami-san panicked a little.

“I couldn’t ask Motoko-sama…”

“I have warned you about that.” Motoko chided, gently but firmly, cutting her off. “Natsumi and I seek no aggrandisement. Instead, we welcome you as a dear friend, who gave up everything for what she believes in, to fight, to protect…”

“That’s right, Kanami-chan.” Natsumi agreed. “Besides, Hinata might be your High Commander, but she’s got your best interests at heart too. It will be rough, without parental support, but your financial needs will be met, you’ll continue at Hanafubuki until you graduate, and your career path… Adamant is a noble one.”

“Your spiritual and emotional needs will be met too, I hope.” I added my own support. “It’s early for you to go it alone in the world, especially for a sheltered young noble daughter, but… you’re not alone. Adamant forges bonds stronger than diamond. Stronger than Hihi’irokane now, I hope.”

“That’s right.” Kana held out her free hand, and Kanami-san stared at it for a short time, puzzled, before Motoko urged her to take it. Kana shook then, grinning. “We’re not fond of physical contact, we Japanese, but… I think we need it, you know? It affirms we’re alive and loved. Otherwise, why would I be walking arm in arm with Akio?” she teased. “Oh, but I’ll have to relinquish it soon. Want to come with me, Kanami-chan? We’ll meet up with the others, have some fun…”

“There is no need for that.” Motoko’s smile was gentle. “Natsumi and I agreed not to take time from you, Kana. Not tonight.”

“Why?” Kana was puzzled. “Don’t you want a new year date with Akio?”

“Of course we do.” Natsumi sighed theatrically. “Everyone wants to spend time with Akio. But last night… well, I suppose it was only a couple of hours ago, so calling it that seems odd… it was a lot of fun. Everything’s better together, isn’t it?” She turned back to the slightly withdrawn Kanami-chan. “You know that too. Don’t worry. We’ll treat you as our sister, Kanami-chan. And we’ll help you until the pain of loss and betrayal fades. It’ll never go away, I imagine, but… we’re here. Akio’s here.”

“He’s got a free arm.” Kana chuckled. “He’s warm and comforting, Kanami-chan...”

At Kana’s devilish temptations, I stifled a grin. “It’s true. I’ve had a lot of practice giving hugs and head pats. And you’re never too old for them, I promise. And as one of Adamant… I understand just what you mean to me.” With a smile, I felt my affection deepen for the poor, betrayed girl, who’d proved in her own time of desperate trial to be true to herself and her friends and classmates, a far superior person to her greedy parents. Kanami-chan felt it too, as her brown eyes widened.

“Akio-sama, did you…”

“Nope.” I insisted firmly. “For a warrioress of Adamant, one of Earth’s Valkyries…” Sorry, I know it might be unseemly, us weaklings claiming such a title… I apologised mentally in Wisdom World. “…and more importantly, someone who cares, who never yielded, not to fear, pain, death nor betrayal, my affection is boundless. And will keep you safe and help you grow. Now then…”

Motoko and Natsumi immediately understood. “Your breathing has changed. Your centre of balance too.” Motoko observed Kanami-chan, and Natsumi echoed her.

“Yes, I can see the changes. Lovers’ Link has Ranked up. I wonder what Rank…” her tone was cheeky but kind.

“I think Akio should spare her blushes. But are you sure you don’t want that hug?” Kana teased, and Kanami-chan reddened, eyes watery.

“No! I’m fine, I promise. I wouldn’t dare, anyway. What… what if I liked it too much? I’m not Megumi-chan. Thank all the Gods.” She managed a tremulous smile. “She would have leapt in your arms with no hesitation, figuring she could invite the two of them to join in the hug, and… a lot more.”

“Yeah, she’s got a dangerous gleam in her eyes, Watari-chan has…” Kana agreed. “…though she’s not as bad as Hotaru-chan. They’re both equally impure, but…”

“Yes, it’s hard to explain, but Watari-san is at least acting out of honest emotions. Crazy ones, and I’ll not let her have either of you…” I reassured Motoko and Natsumi, making them blush. Minds made up, the pair of them quickly played rock-paper-scissors to decide who would take my arm first, and Motoko won. My amazake was taken by Natsumi, and she had the task of helping me drink as I walked, since both my arms were occupied.

“…have no fear. I have no interest in her romantically.” Motoko promised, before Natsumi, giggling, fed me some amazake, and even wiped my mouth, not by handkerchief, but by kissing and licking up the spilled drops. Not to be outdone, Kana and Motoko took turns cleaning up the remaining saliva with their own lips, until Kanami-chan burst out laughing, doubled over.

When she could breathe again, she wiped at her eyes, and did indeed seem more cheerful, before producing her own handkerchief from storage and cleaning my face. “If you let them carry on, you’ll end up all sticky. You know… I’m kind of amazed.”

“At what?” I asked, and Kanami-chan, admiring her handiwork, flushed a little.

“That you don’t seem irritated or bothered. I mean, you let them do whatever they want…”

“I think you misunderstand me a little.” I chuckled. “They’re good girls, of course they won’t do anything too bothersome. Just like I make sure to always keep their wants in mind. But they’re having fun. And how could I hate it, three beauties all eager to kiss me? Besides, what they want is usually what I want. That’s what being in love is.”

“I see.” Kanami-chan seemed enlightened. “It’s… not dissimilar to Adamant then. You know, I’m starting to understand Megumi-chan a little better, but she’ll be crushed to hear your cold words, Motoko…-chan?”

At her nod, Kanami-chan was relieved.

“Hey, there are probably a lot of guys that would let their girlfriend have a threesome with another girl, if they got to have a taste of her.” Kana teased us. “Especially if she’s pretty. Watari-chan may be a little pervert, but she’s got that cute, girl-next-door bookworm look, which I know is your type. You like elegant, pretty girls, and studious, hardworking ones.”

“I also like you, and tough fighting girls like Motoko and Natsumi too.” I winked. “But I’m a jealous man, you know? My love is heavy…”

“It’s Eri’s that’s heavy love. Shiro’s too. I had thought Shaeula was in the same category, but she’s matured so much…” Kana chuckled. “But we’re flattered, aren’t we?”

Natsumi smirked, teasingly kissing the bottle of amazake, before pressing it to my lips. “An indirect kiss. I prefer direct… but I don’t want to make more work for Kanami-chan. Anyway, you miss the point, Kana. If Akio wants Megumi-chan, he doesn’t have to offer us, she’s Adamant, and…”

“Yes. She takes it as seriously as I do.” Kanami-chan promised. “…everyone does. We’ve seen it. Felt death. It’s not a game, or a noble obligation. Not anymore, after what happened at Hanafubuki.”

“Don’t worry. I may have… reached for Yu-mi, but that wasn’t because she was in Adamant.” I promised. “I have no need of casual sex, just for thrills or to be different. And if I’m being honest… I respect everyone in Adamant, you as well, Kanami-chan, far too much just to see you as tools to gratify my lusts or desires.”

“What was it that you said earlier, Akio?” Kanami-chan seemed to have come to a realisation. “Your desires are for theirs to be fulfilled. We… shall be the same. I will be the same.” She knelt, and we were drawing gazes, and this seemed rather a private moment, so I shielded us from view with a wall of light element, making it an interesting pattern, to at least give those watching a memorable photo.

Making the sign of the diamond, she bowed, almost into dogeza, before lifting her head, smiling at me knowingly. “I apologise for embarrassing you. But the High Commander is right. Organisations need order.”

“Indeed they do. The military more so than any. Grandfather and father, and all those I have studied with, such as master Ulfuric, and Shaeula’s brother and sister, those who have seen bloody battle, know it to be true.” Motoko agreed.

“So I shall show proper respect. But from now on… my heart shall be fully in this. I shall rise as far as I can, for those I admire…” she gazed at Motoko and Natsumi with adoring eyes. “…for those who have proved worthy to stand at your side…” Kana nodded, her smile showing she was entertained. “…for my comrades, and… for you, of course. One day, I shall stand amongst the top, and… I’ll offer my hand to those below me, who will inevitably lose and be betrayed, as I was. And show them there is a life here worth living, a future!”

That’s… one hell of a speech. And resolve. I exchanged a quick conversation mentally with those I could reach, and everyone was in agreement. My sis surprised me a little, but then I realised there was no need to be. After all, the tangled threads wrapping her heart and mind came undone. She’s no need to suffer anymore.

“A noble goal. Let me aid you then.” I held out a hand, and she took it, and I pulled her up. “In that case, Kanami, I’ll consider you my honorary sister now. And that’s no mere title. I’ll… with everyone’s help of course… take responsibility for ensuring you can reach your dreams. But that’s a grand goal. For now… the five of us should enjoy the evening. Oh, but do pack your storage. You’re coming with us to London.”

As Kanami-chan smiled warmly, looking down at her hand, Motoko and Kana clutched my arms tightly. The differing sensations were amusing, but sensing that, Motoko, determined not to lose, pressed one of her prized, muscular, yet somehow still slender, legs against mine as she walked. Kana, perhaps amused by the slight jealousy Motoko was showing, unusual for her, retaliated by pressing her chest together, emphasising her size.

“As you wish. And… I’d like that.” Kanami-chan saluted again.

“It is rather admirable.” Gerhilde, her deep black hair down almost to the ground and crimson eyes giving her an imposing air, even as a miniature self in Wisdom World, observed. “Yes, to call them Valkyries is to make light of our strength, but… to call them worthy prospects would be no mistake.”

“Come now, eldest sister.” The blonde and motherly Brunnhilde’s small form chuckled. “Do not be so stingy. They are not as we are, but… who is to say our traditions are flawless? From what I see, they are closer to the Einherjar, but, in time, and nurtured properly… who knows what they can achieve? What they could become? In time…”

“Time, huh?” Run repeated. “Ordinarily, they’d have a lot of it, but…” she fixed her gaze on my projection there, orange eyes knowing. “…setting aside Alta, who’s going to get a whipping… oh, how scary…” she joked, as Waltraute’s mossy stare fixed on her. “…I fear we’re in a bit of a rush. Still, I wonder when our gift will get there…?”

As the Valkyries chatted, Eri or the others occasionally joining it, I strolled around, enjoying the atmosphere. We’d slipped away when I deployed my light barrier, though obviously there was no escaping the crowds. Kana was particularly stunned, as she was comparing it to other years, with barely a couple of hundred to maybe a thousand locals. Natsumi had swapped with Motoko, and was hugging me close, and we continued to gossip happily, Kanami-chan back to her bubbly, animated self, which Motoko told me was well-liked by the older students at Hanafubuki, and loved by the younger.

“So, yes, mother was beside herself…” Natsumi was saying. “…getting a call from the Lord Chamberlain, Earl Peel. Obviously, we have the nobility here in Japan, but compared to titled nobility from Britain, it has a different flavour…” Her smile was rueful. “I guess Eleanor remembers me saying that my parents and I wanted to work on our wedding outfits. It seems a bit of an international issue now. Earl Peel was polite, certainly, but…” Natsumi launched into a complicated talk about ‘Honiton lace’ and ‘traditional ivory silk’.

The women seemed interested, but I felt my eyes glaze over, until Kana chuckled, poking my cheek. “Wake up, Aki. Sorry, but as a playboy who loves and is loved by many, you’ll have to get used to fashion talk. And every girl dreams of her wedding day. Ours… it’s going to be something, isn’t it?”

“You’re not wrong, Kana.” Natsumi joined her in playfully prodding my face. “But normally Akio’s very good. Don’t you agree, Motoko?”

“Indeed he is. He does not compliment us just for form’s sake. He individually assesses our outfits and style.”

“Of course I do. It’s like how I immediately noticed the pair of you are in reversed outfits, and they bring to mind your training hakama. More importantly, you wear them differently, to emphasise your most attractive features. Of course, your style is impeccable. As if you’re both models. You too, Kanami-chan.”

“Of course. We do attend Hanafubuki. It would be a matter for our parents if we… oh, sorry.” Natsumi apologised, and Kamami-chan shook her head.

“It’s fine. It happened, but… I’m still more fortunate than some of my colleagues. I hear that Kyoto was ghastly. My parents are still alive. You’re right though.” She forced a smile, and I inwardly applauded her effort. “I wear the kimono well because we are taught the proper form and way to move to emphasise the beauty of traditional clothing.”

“So I suppose I wear it like a commoner?” Kana pretended to be angry, and I soothed her as she wanted.

“Hardly. You look beautiful in it Kana. And you have your own style. Bold, eye-catching but not trashy. You make even plain clothes fashionable.”

“Indeed. You carry off casual clothing far better than I do.” Motoko added, and I shook my head.

“You just haven’t found your style. You’re slender, with long legs and arms. Skinny jeans and a t-shirt would suit you. Maybe in London we’ll get to see you dress up differently…”

“Motoko’s right.” Kanami-chan told Natsumi. “He does watch you all closely.”

“Of course. I’m a Dragon, guarding my precious treasures, and I want to hold them and gaze upon them every day.” I winked, and Kana snorted.

“That’s so lame. But I do feel treasured, so I’ll let it slide…”

As the conversation turned, the girls ganged up on me playfully, and it was both warm and excruciatingly embarrassing to listen to. I then caught sight of someone out of the corner of my eye and smiled. Salvation from this topic of conversation!

“Over there. Look.” I nodded my head, and Ginneka, now the centre of our attention, lashed her silver tail sourly. Beside her, Kinneka, who was quietly performing his tasks ever since his rebirth, shrank in on himself.

“Oh, it’s the Bakeneko pair.” Kana added. “They seem oddly popular with the locals.”

Indeed, Ginneka had secured some alcohol significantly stronger than amazake from somewhere, and she and her brother were clearly tipsy. Though at my steely gaze, Ginneka’s tail drooped and her ears flickered.

“Nya, don’t be mad. I’m not drunk, n-ya know!” she insisted as we approached. “Tell her, brother! It’s just… a celebration. We’re Yōkai. And… it’s unusual to be welcome on hallowed ground, nya!”

“I apologise.” Kinneka bowed low, shocking his sister.

“Nya, you do, brother? Ah…” Sweating, Ginneka tried to offer us the half-drunk bottle, but I shook my head.

“It’s fine. I understand wanting to have fun. But you’ve an important task shortly. You’d best be ready.” I warned, and the Bakeneko nodded frantically, twisting her body as if to appeal to me.

“Have no fear, nya, it’s all in hand! I spoke to the Ling woman, we will be ready, nya! Not a problem! That rat did the calculations. Everything will work, nya!”

“I think she is sincere.” Motoko added, and Ginneka’s head was bouncing as if it was on a spring.

“Me, I’m just looking forward to it succeeding. If it does… then the possibilities are endless!” Natsumi cried out with excitement.

“Me, I’m just expecting more work.” Kana said to the listening Kanami-chan. “Ones on water are beyond me though. But Eleanor said everything is prepared on their end, so…”

What Kana was about to say was swallowed in an explosion of colour and sound. Red, green, purple, gold… fireworks flashed in the skies above, and not just them. The magnificent display was amplified by lasers, tracing patterns in the sky. I recognised Fae, mythical Dragons and other monsters, and more. As we watched, the crowds at the shrine also looking up in wonder, Natsumi released my hand, allowing Motoko to cling to it.

As we observed the skies, the Bakeneko pair and Kanami-chan also enraptured by the display, the four of us gazed at the fiery blooms. “You know…” I used wind to shield us from the sound so it was easy to talk. “Fireworks at new year isn’t a Japanese tradition. It’s popular in Britain though. But Hinata thought we ought to make a spectacle of it, considering the expected visitors. It makes a lovely piece for WTV as well. And speaking of…”

I smiled, unable to wave due to my position, as Hinata, Shaeula, Shiro, Eri and my sis approached us. Of course they knew where we were, Shaeula and Eri could tell any time they wanted. As Kana and Motoko waved, I watched as they approached, dyed in all the colours of the fireworks and lasers above. This… is a wonderful new year. Dai-kichi? Of course I have Great Fortune. Who in this world could claim to have more than me right now?