On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

Sorting through our gains, I was both shocked and gratified by the scale of our profits. It’s quite the capstone for the end of the Pilgrimage, though I suppose it doesn’t officially end until the rededication at the Tengokusentou tomorrow…

Setting aside the Scale Ritual Mountain Of Sacred Fuji and the Grove Of Artificial Rhyming Trees, there was still significant other rewards. The fourteen Ether Spires, each at Rank 6, were the equivalent of nearly a single Rank 8 when it came to production, which was around, or perhaps even slightly exceeding the original performance of Asha’s Rhyming Tree when it had been grown by the adherence from the Tower of London and paired with Shiro’s buffs. Of course, since then, Shiro’s buffs had magnified in both number and scope, and the Tree itself had… kind of duplicated itself somewhat… it seems impossible, but honestly, I think it’s a clue to the path I need to take… so such wasn’t impressive anymore, but unless some other Chosen had lucked out and gained such a legacy, they’d be far behind.

Let’s see… a Rank five Ether Spire costs three and three quarter million ether and takes two thousand five hundred Astral days. And Rank six eighteen and three quarter million ether, and twelve and a half thousand Astral days. Even accounting for an average time difference of two and a half, that’s still getting on for fourteen years of Material time, though gathering the ether to build them would also have taken many years, most likely, at least until more and more Spires came online…

I didn’t even want to think about the potential Rank 7 and Rank 8 I could now theoretically obtain, as we were into the century-level timescales, without the scandalously expensive rush building. Yes, time is power here, time is power.

Gaining these Buildings had saved us so much potential time it was insane. And that was hardly all. The three Rank 6 Silos were paired with two Rank Six Expanding Silos, adding one hundred and twenty percent extra storage, meaning each was capable of holding just shy of fifty million ether… and they… were nearly full. It’s humbling, really. But it makes sense. Any Territory, no matter how humble, that endures for millennia, will be far more advanced than any of our own. Unless horribly mismanaged and used for a singular purpose like Duke Myrcolaxriath was doing, of course…

Such conclusions made me ponder in awe just how advanced the Pantheons were, and Run snorted in the Wisdom Word, when I voiced that thought.

“You can hardly believe it. Even our ballgowns are covered in a fortune in Etherites, compared to your poor little world. But… times can be hard, even up here. The elder sisters are emptying out their jewellery boxes in the hopes of contributing a little more power to the cause.”

“Do not be so vulgar, you will give him the wrong idea. I apologise.” The tiny eldest Gerhilde shook her head, red eyes wistful. “It is true though. We have wonders here that took millennia to build, through the efforts of many worlds. There are limits to what one can do alone. Indeed, the prison is time. But also…” She pursed her lips, glancing at Lin, who sighed.

“We are Valkyries. We never shy away from battle. Nor do the brave Einherjar, led by their Foringi. Yet… constant war is deleterious to the health of a world, the citizens who dwell there. Yes, there is respite… but such respites are brief, and only becoming briefer. Even the hardest stone is worn away by the constant drip of rain and breath of wind, and even the sharpest sword grows dull with use.”

“That’s not to say…” Rose smiled. “…it’s all doom and gloom. After all, even one more Astral Emperor would be precious. Your Goddess lover…” Rose snorted at that, but her cheeks had taken on a faint tinge, similar to her hair. “…believes we are too pessimistic. I… am not sure. But… if you are resolved to face your world, despite knowing the extreme, near-certain odds of failure… we are Valkyries. We are your wings, we are not here to clip your wings, are we, Lin?”

“No. My… my Verr, I do not wish for you to die needlessly, but… it is as Rose says. We are Valkyries. We do not love cowards. And while we never applaud reckless stupidity, the bravery and drive to challenge, knowing the odds are poor, yet make all preparations, mitigate what risks can be dealt with…” Now her face was red too, and as Run and Waltraute teased them, their miniature figures bobbing and weaving about, I nodded.

Yes. I’m not eager to die and leave the two of you behind, leave everyone behind. After all, I’m very much looking forward to my wedding night… I couldn’t help but add to the teasing, and cheeky Run slapped my mental image in the Wisdom World on the back heartily, guffawing so hard I feared she’d collapse. …I’m also not one to give up until it’s clear it can’t be done. I think… if I want Earth and those on it to have the happiest lives, I need this. I need to make it work. And… this is a small but meaningful step towards that goal. It may be a trivial step to those above, but here, it’s like years of effort brushed aside. And I’ll put it to good use…

The Silos also had two Rank 6 Elemental Silos attached, also overflowing with earth and flame element, with some metal and even a little water element.

In addition, there were six Rank six Defensive Emplacements at the peak of the mountain, where they could fire down in wide arcs. If we’d have come with hostility, that would have been a pain, no doubt. Sure, not so much for me, but if a weaker combatant was hit by one of those it would be potentially a huge threat.

There were also a couple more unique Buildings of note.

Sacred Fuji Obsidian Mine Rank 6 Unique – This Mine taps into the heart of the sacred mountain, and the Mine produces precious metals, gemstones and Etherites, as well as a significant quantity of Fuji Obsidian, a volcanic rock bathed in Adherence and potent Elemental energies, making it stronger and sharper than ordinary obsidian, and better able to be transformed into weapons or items.

There were actually two of these Mines, and in addition, we had…

Yōkai Proving Grounds Rank 7 Special – Special Rank facilities cannot be Ranked up by Ether, they grow as their requirements are met. These Proving Grounds are home to innumerable Yōkai of all persuasions, and functions as both home, feast hall, sparring grounds and more. All Yōkai who call Mount Fuji home have their Level Caps raised by Twenty-eight Levels, and it supports Yōkai of significant power.

No wonder the Yōkai here worried Muratsuno. One advantage of a fixed Territory rather than the nomadic Parade, I guess? Though I suspect there are Buildings inside Nurarihyon’s powerful mobile shrine Territory, but how that works with Ether Spires, say, I’m not sure…

Things such as Barracks were missing, but there was a final Building of note, a Rank Six Treasury, which also held quite the wealth of treasures from the Mines, and also a number of Etherites, including a handful of blues. We can put these to use immediately. Though I do feel kind of bad plundering them… but in the long run they’ll benefit….

“So, what shall you do now?” Tsukuruyama asked, and Sakura was waiting for an answer too. I merely smiled warmly.

“Don’t worry, I’m extremely grateful you joined us willingly. A trial such as this…” I glanced at the miniature mountain and our handiwork, the nascent equivalent of the Spring, and grove of living metal trees. “…was a welcome, refreshing change. And we have no prejudice against Yōkai. Though in our Territory, and indeed the mortal world…” I winked at Hinata, who was watching, and she smiled knowingly, waving her phone, which even though it didn’t work here currently… though honestly, that’s a problem Ixitt reckons he can solve quite swiftly now that there’s integration between the Astral and the Material… “…there are rules to abide by. Though for a group like you all, who’ve kept out of trouble, kept to yourselves, that shouldn’t be too onerous.”

“Better still… you’re coming with me, big guy!” Kana insisted. “Let Akio look after the mountain, and you can get into construction. Damn, it’ll be so easy…” Kana was delighted at potentially acquiring her new building buddy. That gave me an idea, but before that, I’d need to spend the ether we’d gained. There was one obvious option…

Don’t be foolish, Akio. Haru’s thoughts interjected. I know what you want even without my Telepathy. Since we virtually have the ether now, you’re thinking of just boosting me to Rank Four straight away. But if you do that, I know what’ll happen next. Then it’ll be… I did Haru’s, so it’s not fair to leave out Eleanor…no, you call her Ellie now, don’t you? No, that’s not the point. Then you’d find some reason to help out Yukiko, or one of Eleanor’s allies… it’d never end.

I listened to her firm lecture, a little bemused, but she was far from done.

We stick to the plan. We have to get your infrastructure up to a satisfactory level. Sure, stronger Territories are important, but with the extra ether we’ll be bringing in with these additional Ether Spires, we’ll be there quicker than you can imagine. Besides, we shouldn’t be too hasty. The effect on the Boundary isn’t fully understood, and whether Shaeula can do what she did before again with my Kyoto Territory is in question, and…

She continued to mentally berate me a bit more, eventually running out of steam, and as I was about to respond, I caught her smiling at me in a very unusual way for her.

If you insist on being my white knight and pushing presents on me, I suppose I won’t be tsundere about it. Honestly, what am I to do with you? I’ll take half and move it to Kyoto. But if you need it before I’m done, take it, okay?

Fine. I conceded. It was true that I wanted to upgrade Kyoto as soon as possible, as then Yukiko would be sheltered under Rank Four defences, but even now, we had Ring Gate access, so if that vile toad bastard came back, we wouldn’t be easy prey, and Yukiko would be protected, at least long enough to dismantle her Anchor and flee to safety.

Shiro, Shaeula and the others gathered, their eyes sparkling with anticipation. “So, Aki, what are you going to upgrade? You’re rich, right?”

“Yeah, it seems so. Well, might as well do it as I planned…”

I quickly spent the ten million ether to upgrade the White Snake Earth Altar instantly to Rank 3. I then blew another twelve and a half million adding the Rank 4 to the Anchor Spire’s Build Queue. The elemental energies in the Mount Fuji Silos were more than enough to handle that level of expenditure.

White Snake Earth Altar Rank 3 Unique – This Building can only be constructed at Shirohebizumi shrine. It will further strengthen all Earth-aspected creatures and allies under your command, and this ability will be magnified for the Kami of the shrine and its adherents. The Kami of the shrine will be able to gather more Adherence and utilise it more effectively.

Earth Element production and purity in the area will be increased, further slightly increasing the chance of unique Elemental Earths forming. Earth Element aspected allies have their maximum Level raised by Five. The Kami of the shrine, its adherents and devout worshippers have their maximum Level raised instead by Ten.

That was quite the boost to everyone’s potential power, as those of Fenrir and a lot of the Adamant members had worked on earth element for those boosts. Better still, when eventually… five thousand Astral days… which isa long time, but thinking on matters tactically, it’s fine… Miyu’s Dancing will help speed that up, and each day we don’t have to spend on rush building will save us quite a lot of ether, long term, and even if we need to do so before going to Rank Five with the Territory, the difference in scale is so huge that I’d barely notice the rush costs for the Earth Altar…  the Rank 4 upgrade to it completed, the benefits would be… Earth Element aspected allies have their maximum Level raised by Nine. The Kami of the shrine, its adherents and devout worshippers have their maximum Level raised instead by Eighteen. At that point it’s starting to get significant, and we always want further increased purity of our earth element, and a unique one forming would be amazing…

I then considered the upgrade to my Throne Of Heroes. There were still excellent reasons to do it, even if the merging with the Astral reduced the impact somewhat, but instead, I thought I’d focus on producing ether, as over the longer term, such advantages, which had propelled us to where we were today, would compound.

I had two Ether Spire slots left, after the windfall, so I quickly went all the way to Rank Four, at a cost of just over four point four million for the two. I had ten Rank 3 Ether Spires, so at the further cost of eighteen and three quarter million I pushed all those to Rank 4 as well. It’s a hurtful expenditure, but every day they’re at Rank four when they otherwise wouldn’t have been reduces the downside of the rush build, and it’s not impossible we’ll even turn a profit on the trade, and even if we don’t, time is priceless…

Thus, I’d quickly spent a bit over forty-five and a half million ether. That left around thirty million of my share of the windfall. We’d planned a dozen Barracks to provide a standing force to protect the new Ring Gate central hub, so I looked into those. They were already set up at Rank 1, and to Rank 2 was a trivial expense, but adding Rank 3 and Rank 4 as an instant build was five hundred thousand ether and three million one hundred and twenty-five thousand ether respectively. So I couldn’t quite manage to take the dozen all the way to Rank 4, but we did bring seven to Rank 4 and five to Rank 3. Then my ether would be spent over the next few days rushing those five to Rank 4 as well.

Are you sure you don’t want to just take from what you’re giving me to finish them off? Haru’s insistence was rather tempting, but I had to hold my ground.

No way. You’re getting your Territory to Rank Four soon. A few days’ delay while we build them up isn’t a problem. We’re vastly ahead of schedule now thanks to the mountain. They’ll be done by the time I have to leave for the Quest, and so will most of the Defensive Emplacements to Rank three…

Suit yourself. We’ll have quite the army though, won’t we? It’ll be reassuring.

It certainly was. We had a very large Territory to protect now, and key areas requiring extra support, and while our population was growing via integrating scattered tribes… I hear those Kappa who tried to demand sacrifices from us, the Edo Bitter River tribe, who we subdued on the way to save Mae, have surrendered once we reached them again. And not just them… as well as immigrants from the Seelie Court and Fae lands, though that flow was slowing down, we still needed a greater population, though eventually, we’d soon be able to count ordinary humans as labour and population as the integration between the Astral and the Material spread further.

Anyway, the Barracks upgrades give us the following…

This Barracks can recruit up to fifty Basic-class troops and fifteen Elite-class, based on those who serve your Territory. These troops will gain experience and have a maximum Level of Nine. Basic-class troops produced from the Barracks will start at Level Two rather than Zero. Elite-class troops produced from the Barracks will start at Level Three.

Though the difference between Rank 3 Barracks and Rank 4 Barracks was significant…

This Barracks can recruit up to one hundred and fifteen Basic-class troops and thirty-two Elite-class, as well as four Leader-class troops, based on those who serve your Territory. These troops will gain experience and have a maximum Level of Fifteen. Basic-class troops produced from the Barracks will start at Level Four rather than Zero. Elite-class troops produced from the Barracks will start at Level Six, and Leader-class troops will start at Level Nine.

With seven of those at Rank 4, that gave us twenty-eight Leader-class troops, which could be assets like Kamaitachi, which would significantly increase our military strength and flexibility, and they could be used to command. An added bonus was, with starting Levels and a cap equivalent to a Rank 2 Throne, the troops and their leaders would punch above their weight. Especially with Ulfuric, Anna and the Way-Captains to whip them into a unified fighting force…

“I feel a little guilty now.” I grinned shamefacedly at the giant Daidarabotchi. “All the resources you’ve gathered up over the centuries have been spent. Though now you’re a part of something greater, so…” I looked at Hinata, who nodded.

“We’re reasonable people. Yes, Akio won your trial fairly, but we can certainly consider your donation here an investment, earning you shares in the ongoing enterprise. And of course, you’re more than welcome to continue to manage Mount Fuji for us. This is an important site, as valuable as Mount Atago. We’ll discuss the exact details later, but we have a great many construction projects both here and back on the Material. We pay generously too, though assisting us out of civic pride is also good!”

Watching Hinata talk business with the ten-metre tall Tsukuruyama made me smile, and now we were done with the challenge, I turned to the slightly bemused Sakura, the Tennyo. “It’s like this all the time. Don’t worry. Anyway, we’re holding a ceremony which will be a part of both worlds tomorrow. It’s important for the spiritual faith and morale of the nation, as well as a way to get more worshippers for your own shrines and temples, and your Kami.” I scanned around until I could see them and then called out. “Nozomi-san, Arisa-san, if you would?”

“We come at your call, Akio-sama!” The older sister, her hair in a long ponytail so as not to disturb her black cap, made the diamond salute with her hands in front of her ample chest. “What can we do for you?”

As Hinata was distracted from her negotiations with Tsukuruyama briefly, giving Nozomi-san an approving nod, which widened her smile, I asked them both to inform the Tennyo of the details and see if we could reserve her a slot at the rededication ceremony. As Nozomi-san nodded, her younger sister hovering around her protectively, but no longer shooting everyone around them bitter, guarded looks, I considered how the two of them had changed in such a short time, as evidenced by Nozomi-san’s rank insignia. I do feel a little bad that the Tengokusentou owner is me now, though that’s not just for the Territory control aspect, but to stop their foolish parents from doing something idiotic with it. But Nozomi-san is effectively a real-life Vassal in that regard, she and her sister will run the Tengokusentou under me, so… I guess for them, it’s enough…

“All right then, we have to finish up, and meet the Fuji family at the summit back on the Material…” I pointed out, and before I could leave, Tsukuruyama asked if, as a celebration of the union of Mount Fuji and our greater Territory, we could indeed stay the night in the shukubo housing near the top, and awake to say prayers at the dawn, though how they determined dawn when the skies of the Boundary were so chaotic was a question I couldn’t answer.

“I don’t see why not. It might be fun…” Kana chuckled. “Though with your nightly plans tonight there might be a few problems.”

“Yeah. The thing is… I promised to spend some quality time with my girlfriends, so being in some sort of communal housing might be a little awkward…”

At my words, Sakura smiled. “Fear not. I can… arrange things. You will not be disturbed or bothered. After all, the shukubo is a place for quiet contemplation, although…” the Tennyo’s smile faltered a little, and Shiro snorted.

“Yeah. I get you. We can keep the noise down with a wind barrier. Not much contemplating will be done, though, unless you count Aki contemplating our bodies thoroughly.”

“Hey, don’t bully her.” Kana warned. “She’s probably not as worldly-wise as you, Shiro.”

“Now you’re the one blushing, Kana.” Shiro teased back, while Hyacinth snickered and Asha gently smiled. “Fine. I’ll go easy on her. But yeah, in that case, hadn’t you best ask Arisu to pick up the foxes? You did promise, Aki, and if you’re not going back…”

“Hey, if that’s the case…” my sis piped up. “…can I ask her to fetch some stuff for me? And you’ll need some nightclothes, unless you’ve got them in storage, Shiro?”

Shiro shook her head. “Nope. Got a change of clothes in case they get damaged in battle. Clothing damage is a hot trope, but only in fiction. I don’t want to be responsible for the genocide of all the men around me on the battlefield because I’m showing some tits and ass. Shit, my conscience couldn’t take it. But it’s also hot Aki’s so jealous. So, what do you need, Ai?”

“Oh, nothing much…” she began, only for Eri to come and haul her away, seeking out Arisu.

“Okay, I guess it’s settled.” I conceded. “But yeah, I’m sure we won’t have any problems, but even so, I’d like to set up some security for privacy. Are there any particular morning ceremonies we should know about?”

As Tsukuruyama explained that no, they did not strictly honour the Gods or Kami, but the Sacred Mountain and the land of Japan itself, alongside those who fell defending it over the millennia, in the Material, it would soon be time to meet with the true owners of the mountain there, for what would likely be tough negotiations, but before that, I had once last task to perform here.

When the explanation was done, Arisu-san had returned, bringing Hana and Mae, though Mae did seem a little ill-at-ease, being away from the Su family, but we had ample security on hand now that the estate had merged with the Astral, so the chances of an enemy successfully attacking them was non-existent.

Hana had bounded up to me, expressing her eagerness for my promised grooming, and I had to calm her down, insisting that was all it was, and she just smirked at me knowingly.

“Indeed.” she had agreed, her smile teasing. “I know, and it disappoints me. But I told you. I am currently rather enjoying life.” She waved her fifth tail for emphasis. “So, to pass the time until we must save my poor, foolish kind… this is certainly not so bad. And if I can reconnect with grandmother through this, all the better.” She lowered her voice, but left it loud enough for Mae to hear, as evidenced by her flickering fox ears. “I feared her greatly, but like all Kitsune, also envied, almost worshipped her. She is, after all, the pinnacle none of us could ever reach, the peak above peaks. Now… I can finally understand her. Though…” Hana’s smile was very alluring, but I hardened my heart. “…one day I too shall have nine tails. It is a far-off dream, but… I think it very possible, if I stay here.”

“But by then, Mae will probably be the twelve-tailed fox…” I chuckled, amused, and Hana shrugged, threatening to bounce her chest out of her loose kimono.

“Then that will be my new peak to aim for. Now, I know you are busy. I shall take my leave!” She blew me a kiss playfully, wagging her tails. “Until tonight.”

As she and Mae bickered, I first sought out Ixitt, who was at the Obsidian Mine, investigating the wealth of treasures found within. He’d also carefully gathered up materials from the Buildings here, ready to feed them to the Materia Tree. On seeing me, he lapsed into a long, delighted ramble about the potential of the obsidian in both weapons and industry, but I cut him off.

“Yeah, I’ll want to hear all about that. Later. First… I have a proposition for you.”

“Oh, how fascinating.” His tail lashed eagerly, his grin toothy. “Your offers are always so enticing. Though as I am not a woman, in return… perhaps one or more of my daughters? How is Quaela, by the way? I hear her training is going well.”

“She’s reached the point Hyacinth doesn’t scare her… well, not much, anyway.” I sighed. “Which is a sign a maid is competent at her job, But you know I’m not interested in your matchmaking…”

“I know. A jest, to lighten the mood.” Ixitt chortled. “Though if Quaela or any of my other cute daughters do catch your eye…”

Cute, huh? Being fair, female ratkin would drive the furries wild, they are quite delicate. Nope, not for me though! “Joking, you say? Never mind.” I shook my head to dismiss all this. “In any case… I was thinking that you might be perfect for one of the retrieved Favours. It needs a learned person with great imagination and precision.” I explained Bà Kim’s Heart Forge to him, and he was indeed interested, but he surprised me by, if not outright refusing, asking me to wait.

“It is indeed tempting, and I could make grand use of it.” he acknowledged. “And asking you to defer your choice when such will cost you significant adherence is indeed selfish, yet… perhaps there might be one who could use it better. Perhaps we might see this person sooner than you imagine, if all goes well. Their dreams, with what Asha has achieved here, coupled with that, could perhaps come true. And if it did… let me say this. I believe we would reach a level of potency that would make your goals very reachable. Though I do confess to wishing to try this Heart Forge out… no, waiting is best!”

They? I’m curious, but… “Fine. I’ve got a few more I plan to hand out today or tomorrow, so I can delay a bit, You’re not causing potential problems, are you?” I warned, and he denied it.

“Of course not. Simply…recruiting. Trust me, you will thank me, if all goes well. You would act yourself if you were aware of the situation, I know you very well now, Akio. My research budget is sure to increase, what with the factory operating well and a new potential ally!”

As he waxed lyrical about that, I sighed and considered my next options. Tomorrow morning will be fine. If I pass off two more then, we can at least start balancing the books. And I can deal with the partial Favours as well, since I’ve decided on their recipients, not an easy task…

***

In the Material, I’d been joined by Hinata, of course. Oddly enough, Miyu, accompanied by Michiru, just as Hinata was accompanied by Kazumi, had joined us. Mayumi-chan was here too, her bodyguard Katana-san following silently, dressed in her usual men’s attire, and Sakura and her bodyguard were here too. That’s Hinata’s cousin Sakura, not the Tennyo. Sakura’s such a common name. Still, confusing the two wouldn’t be easy…

When I’d asked Hinata why, she’d smiled and said it was both a show of political force, and a learning opportunity for both Mayumi-chan and Sakura.

“It’s very annoying, you know.” Mayumi was saying, as we approached the Okumiya shrine atop the summit, which was considered part of Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha. It was humble, the stone steps and guarding Komainu statues weathered yet still elegant, and the fact that the summit was snowbound gave the shrine an eerie yet beautiful appearance, the light from the stars above illuminating the scene. Meeting here was certainly a choice, as the summit route wasn’t usually open in the winter, and while it wasn’t snowing, and the temperature was around freezing, the wind was biting, though even Mayumi-chan wasn’t complaining about it, despite not wearing particularly warm clothes, her stats after Chirurgery enough that she merely felt a little cold, rather than frigid.

The shrine building itself was modest yet steeped in history, and no doubt the Fuji family wished to meet us here, rather than at the main Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha shrine below, to assert their authority and prove a point.

“What is?” I asked idly, and Mayumi-chan grimaced.

“The way you call everyone by name, yet I’m still Mayumi-chan. I admit that’s an improvement, but it’s kind of hurtful…”

Katana-san showed a rare expression of exasperated mirth. I’d feel better calling her Ohta-san, but she prefers Katana-san, to fit in with what Mayumi-chan wants. These bodyguards… they’re all so noble and self-sacrificing it’s kind of impressive, if a little sad. Though… I couldn’t help but observe Michiru, who was frolicking through the snow with a smug expression on her face, I could tell that even with her scarf, which for once was fitting for her to wear.

“I don’t see why.” Hinata shook her head. “It’s only natural to address Sakura that way. She’s family. And Miyu… we have ever since that first day, and besides…”

“Yes, besides!” Mayumi-chan protested. “I can’t believe you’d… go so far.” Her face was red, and not from the cold now.

“I would have gone much further.” Miyu admitted, her own face red now. “But Akio was right to forestall us. We panicked and are unused to the ways between men and women. We were also far too pushy. Yet perhaps a little misplaced courage was needed.”

“I see.” Mayumi frowned.

“Not going to complain about her throwing her future away on someone who isn’t truly noble?” Hinata provoked her as we padded through the snow up the steps, to where, inside the humble stone shrine building, grey stone covered in snow, our hosts awaited us.

“Really, am I such a fool in your eyes, Hinata?” Mayumi-chan shook her head. “I may be far too prideful, but I’m not stupid, Hinata. I’ve seen the factory… though I’m still bitter. Your products are far superior to what our deal manufactures.”

“Isn’t that only natural? But you’ll still make a killing.” Hinata insisted. “Anyway, you were saying…”

“Akio-kun, she’s bullying me. Don’t you feel sorry for me?” Mayumi-chan whined, but she was smiling. “I hate to say it, I don’t like being wrong, but… the world has changed too much, and if we don’t change with it, then we’re finished. All our wealth and influence are worthless against what Akio-kun and others like him can do, Hinata. Fortunately, Akio-kun’s a man who understands the value of the nobility…”

“…the demerits too.” Miyu added, and Mayumi-chan frowned.

“Yes. Those too. So… I don’t feel like I’m above Akio-kun. Or even any of the others. After all, even going by our own rules, obsolete as they may be, anyone who marries Akio-kun is part of his house. The leader of Japan.”

“She’s learning.” Hinata remarked to Sakura, who actually smiled. “Our stubborn Mayumi isn’t such a fool after all.”

“Rude! My grades are excellent. But then I suppose everyone here is the same. No, I… don’t want to be the only one Akio-kun is so formal with! It’s upsetting!”

“So you want Akio to be more intimate with you?” Hinata pressed, and Mayumi-chan flushed.

“You know what I mean, Hinata! Besides, I trust him. He’s a man I can feel safe around and respect. I don’t have to worry about it ruining my reputation or tarnishing the honour of Ichijou house either. Even rumours wouldn’t be a detriment. So…”

“Fine. Mayumi.” I conceded at Hinata’s nod. “Uncle Kira will no doubt be laughing.”

“Perhaps. But it’s not a matter for amusement. Hinata simply had better eyes than I did. It shames me, but it’s true. It seems you have the same vision, Miyu-san. You as well, Michiru.”

“In that case, if I’m doing it, no honorifics between any of us.” I insisted. “That goes for you bodyguards too…” Though as Michiru frowned in protest, I amended that. “Of course, I get that it’s your style, Michiru, so I’ll make an allowance just for you.” As Ohta and Sakura’s bodyguard, Sayuri, seemed troubled, I found it again amusing we’d found a second Sakura at the shrine.

“Anyway… you three, tomorrow morning, come see me before we go. I… have to talk to you about an… opportunity.”

As I said that, their gazes hardened with anticipation and desire, and they glanced over at Michiru, who puffed out her modest chest pridefully. Kazumi was the one to speak first. “I see. In that case, you’ll see our training hasn’t been in vain.” Ohta and Sayuri both nodded firmly, and though Michiru couldn’t resist teasing them, manifesting faint electrical sparks proudly, it warmed my heart to see their dedication and bonds. Such things… should always be rewarded.

***

“I bid you welcome.” We’d taken a moment to let the bodyguards compose themselves. They’d apologised for their lapse in decorum, but we’d all laughed that off, even Mayumi, who had slyly insinuated Ohta would be the best choice for any gifts, until Hinata had scornfully declared that Kazumi wouldn’t be beaten by anyone. Sakura and Sayuri were caught in the middle, until Miyu stepped in to smooth out the situation.

Now though, we had entered the main hall of the shrine, where a table was set up, a man and a woman both in their mid-to-late fifties, the man, clean-shaven and running to fat a little, the woman greying and a bit thin, with tired eyes, were sat next to a young man with black hair and dark brown eyes. He seemed rather ordinary, and was indeed in casual clothes for the weather, jeans, hoodie and thick coat. The man wore priestly vestments, a warm coat over that too, and a heater was set up next to them, the woman shifting her legs to soak up the warmth.

“Though there are… rather more of you than expected. We didn’t prepare enough chairs. How rude of me.”

“It’s fine.” I called on earth element and created some benches for us, as Hinata had briefed me that first impressions were important. I pulled out cushions from my storage and gave them to Hinata, Miyu and Michiru, Kazumi as well. Seeing that, Mayumi’s expression was amusing, but I quickly produced more for her, Sakura and their guards, not wanting to tease her too much.

“I’m always prepared.” I sat in the middle, Hinata on my right and Miyu on my left. “As for why so many of us, we were dealing with business in the Fuji of the spiritual world, and I’ll be blunt. There, it’s my Territory now.”

“I see. Straightforward, aren’t you.” the older man, the priest, insisted. “Perhaps introductions are in order, then? I am Fuji Touma, this is my wife Noriko and my son, Yamahiko.” They nodded politely at us, and Yamahiko was eyeing us curiously, or rather me. He was probably a little older than me, but even so for me to attract his attention when Hinata and the others were here, in light clothes despite the temperature, was unusual. Though not displeasing. I’m proud of Hinata, but I’m not keen on having her ogled…

I introduced us, and at the names of the Three Great Houses they seemed momentarily impressed, but again, their focus seemed largely on me. Still, I allowed Hinata to begin.

“Fuji-san, we very much appreciate you making time for us. Especially since you didn’t attend Conclave, I’m told.”

“Why would we?” the elder Fuji-san shrugged. “Don’t mistake me, we’re as pious as anyone, but over the years we’ve had rather more of our own troubles, to be bothered with the messy factional politics of the faith. And it was a good decision. After all, the factions are no more, and Uchida-san…” he trailed off, and I nodded.

“Yes, though it could all have been avoided. We’re not here to steal from you, Fuji-san, but to strike a deal of mutual benefit.”

“Mutual, you say?” He nodded to his wife, who rose, a trace regretfully, from the heater, and brought over a kettle, pouring us all cups of fragrant green tea. We nodded our thanks, and as she sat back down, Fuji-san leaned forward, his gaze inscrutable. “Of course I know of you, Oshiro-san. There’s almost nobody who doesn’t. And I’m not particularly close to the nobility, but Takakura-sama has always supported our family in our efforts to overturn the theft of Mount Fuji from us, so we are aware of the Three Great Houses, and what their daughters being here means. Even so… our history, do you know it? Of course you do, I doubt you came unprepared.”

He sipped at his tea, recounting his grievances. “Unlike many of the true shrines and temples, we of Fuji never owned the land. How could we? It was the Sacred Mountain. Yet, due to our efforts, and loyalty, Tokugawa Ieyasu gave us ownership, and the shrines and temples here flourished. Yet… even then, faith was diminishing, our bloodlines weakening. So over time… well, those idiots in the Meiji Restoration government attacked the shrines and temples, religion as a whole…”

“Not just them.” Miyu pointed out. “The Emperor then was rather foolish, and he upset the balance of the Three Pillars, trying to reclaim more power for the Imperial Family.” Hinata, Sakura and Mayumi all nodded, agreeing, and it was likely lessons taught at Hanafubuki. “Ultimately, in the longer-term it led to our defeat in the War and the American occupation, in which Takatsukasa house suffered significant damage which nearly collapsed it. A stool cannot stand on one leg, it needs all three, to balance and support weight.”

“Well said.” Fuji-san approved. “Yes, all must be in its proper place. After the War, our petitions, supported by Takakura house, finally bore fruit, and we were granted ownership again in nineteen seventy-four, but even then… we didn’t receive official sanction until fifteen years ago. And since, we have been unable to legally register our claim, a slap in the face.”

The expression on his son’s face was bitter, and Hinata smoothly took over from Miyu’s explanation, though she had placed her phone on the table, as if expecting a call or message. “No doubt. But the thing is, we’re not here to repeat history. Though we could.” Hinata added. “You’re sensitive to what you’re owed, which is understandable. But you also honour the Kami of the mountain, and the Gods. We have a number of shrines who have entrusted their land to Akio, but they retain control as his trusted subordinates and will never be faced to make uncomfortable choices. And… don’t you want to see the miracles the mountain hides? Besides, even with Takakura house supporting you, your coffers are bare. You’ve seen the offered contract…?”

“I have.” he agreed. “It is… not what we wish. Mere money is worthless to us.”

“I see.” Hinata’s phone beeped, and she smirked. Glancing at me quizzically, brown eyes shimmering with curiosity, she wondered if I could feel it, and indeed, I could. “The weather is… well, it’s a little chilly up here, but I don’t fear the cold now. Let’s… take a look.”

She stood, and everyone followed her out into the cold, though the Fuji family were reluctant, bundled up against the harsh mountain winter. “You see…” Hinata grinned. “…you couldn’t register ownership as Shizuoka Prefecture and Yamanashi Prefecture both claim part of the summit. The same is true for the main body of the mountain. But… we have friends in high places. And when we own a thing… see, a miracle. He’s a big one, isn’t he?”

“That…” Fuji Noriko-san blinked, rubbing her eyes. “…is the cold getting to me?”

“No…” Fuji Yamahiko-san whispered, breath steaming in the chilly air. “…I can see it too. It’s sparkling… and… there’s a giant… something.”

“Yes. We’ve established a trust fund and commitment to maintain the mountain, removing it from government hands. Sure, there might be some outcry from the public, but I think there’s plenty to distract them.” Hinata chuckled. “Oh, the registration issue is solved too. The border between Prefectures has been redrawn. Just a simple change… and you’ve been registered at last, Fuji-san.”

Hinata put her hands on her hips, grinning wickedly. “But what does that matter? See? That’s Tsukuruyama, the Maker of Mountains, said to have created this very mountain himself. He claims so, anyway, not that we believe him. He’s a Daidarabotchi. The mountain is crawling with Yōkai, and not just them, there’s Kami, a Tennyo maiden, a great beauty.” She winked at Yamahiko-san. “Yet they can never come to the summit. Not as it is now. Because Akio owns the lower mountain in both our world and the Astral that borders it, the lines have blurred. Oh, we’ll have to redo most of the tourist facilities, and we should make it possible to come all around the year. It should be easy now… though… if I’m not mistaken…” she retrieved her phone. “Yes, they’ll have to check the height again and redraw the maps. We’re bigger.”

“Bigger?” Touma-san parroted, shocked by the sight of the Daidarabotchi far below yet still visible due to his massive scale, and Hinata giggled.

“Yes. Bigger. More precisely, taller and wider, yet somehow occupying largely the same space. We’ll get some geodetic surveyors in with lasers to get an exact reading, but early satellite indications are we’ve breached four and a half thousand metres now. Isn’t that something interesting? It’s still increasing slowly too.”

“That… makes no sense.” he muttered, and in my heart, I agreed with him, but decided to step in, releasing a little flame element to keep everyone warm.

“Maybe not, but this is the truth of things. And we need your shrine and the rest of the mountain to fully realise its potential. Nobody’s going to steal from you. You’ll be… like a vassal, such as we had during the Shogunate era, your glory days. I’ll own the mountain, but you’ll own the right to remain in control of the shrine for as long as your family endures. In exchange, you’ll be taken care of. Money, wealth, security… whatever you need.”

“It’s an excellent deal. And one we don’t give just anyone.” Hinata promised, and Mayumi grinned.

“It’s truly a boon. Think of it. What you’ll see! More importantly…” she was serious now. “…it’s a scary world out there. I know. One day, if you refuse this offer… someone far less pleasant will come to seize what you have.” She shivered, and Ohta stepped closer, her presence reassuring her. “Oh, thank you Katana, but I’m fine. Thanks to Haru-chan, I almost never have nightmares now. Still…” Mayumi was about to continue, when Fuji-san actually smiled.

“We don’t want your money. Such is an insult.” We were about to speak, but he raised a hand. “Ichijou-sama here is wise. Now, how do I transfer ownership?” His words surprised us, as according to Hinata, he’d been stubborn and reticent before, but… perhaps our Maker of Mountains has shocked him into agreeing?

“It’s simple.” Hinata held up her phone. “Digital documents. Just sign here and its done. But first, we need to agree terms…”

“Terms?” he grimaced. “There’s only one thing we want. My son, Yamahiko-san… make him one of your inner circle, make him strong. I am not a fool. It is as you say, young lady…” he nodded at Mayumi. “…those who do not find strength will be preyed upon.” Watching as the giant and other Yōkai below were gazing out over the Material in both puzzlement and awe, he shrugged. “We didn’t fight for our rights all these years to give up for nothing. So… my son, teach him, train him, make him integral to the new world, and we’ll be your vassal.”

I glanced over at the man in question, and he nodded, expression eager. His mother seemed tense, but she too nodded, so I returned the gesture. “Sure, I could use a few more guys about the place. I’ll introduce you to my friends later. Though being in my inner circle isn’t all fun and games, you know?”

“I can imagine.” Yamahiko-san chuckled. “The envy must be tough to bear. Even now you’re accompanied by so many elegant beauties.”

“Flattery will get you nowhere… but we still appreciate it.” Hinata handed over her phone and the priest began to fill in his confirmation, and once it was done, it would immediately reach the relevant Prefectural office and be actioned, transferring ownership. “No, Akio means the hard work.”

“Yeah, I’m all for rewards, but you have to earn them. Anyway, tonight’s a celebratory night, but don’t worry, we’ll arrange a mini-Pilgrimage for you and some other late arrivals in the new year. Tomorrow, you and your family should join us at the Tengokusentou…” As we discussed plans, and I considered how to use our new ally, the transfer was done, and the land around us blurred, snow melting, as the slumbering crater of Mount Fuji behind us was suddenly full if churning, red-hot magma, and several truly magnificent shrine buildings and temples appeared, all edifices of black obsidian and crimson ruby. As the Fuji family gasped in awe, I grinned at Hinata and the others, pleased we’d managed to secure the whole mountain safely…

All right then. Now… now we can kick back and relax, at least for tonight. Though… it’ll be a busy one for me… the good kind of busy though. As the mountain shuddered around us, I smiled with anticipation, though there was a trace of worry too. Haru… I do hope you’re not pushing yourself too hard, but… I’ll do what Kana suggested. Listen, check, listen again, and if I’m not sure, I’ll make sure. It may be irritating, but I’d rather annoy her than hurt her. That, that I’ll never do, I swore it on the day she was brave enough to face that bastard Kondou Kazuo down…