On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

After leaving the Imperial Palace, I finished the remainder of the day’s planned Pilgrimage with Yukiko and Arisu-san at a rapid pace. Despite the fearsome exertions of reawakening the Regalia, and then my display of banishing the storm and darkness, my energies were recovering quickly, and I barely even needed to pull light and darkness elements from the Elemental Silos back in my Territory.

Something’s changed. I can feel it. Like a pressure within me and outside me. I’ll have to investigate it later. But with my improved Skills and that, my generation is in excess of what I had anticipated. But that’s a good thing. Sustain is as important as raw power.

I had one stop to make before Arisu-san graciously opened her Room to save us the journey back across Tokyo, and it wasn’t a pleasant one. At the Ministry detention centre, I had retrieved Divine Favours from two of the prisoners there. The first was the foolish, obsessed stalker Sora, who was awaiting trial for his crimes against AKB0048, while the second… was a little more problematic. Under the new laws, Sora had forfeited his right to the Favour, and a Ministry hearing had already taken place to confirm that, elected Japanese judges making an informed, constitutional decision.

But the second man, the Chosen from South Korea… as he wasn’t our citizen, but a foreign national, the due process was a bit… spotty. Legally speaking, South Korea had acknowledged that he was to be tried under Japanese law, as per our agreement when we intervened in Choe-Museon and the terrible situation there. But… our agreements with South Korea haven’t exactly gone as planned. So we’ve been exceedingly careful. Morita Yuna-san, who heads the Ministry, and her staff, including Haru, have gone to great lengths to make sure due process was followed as much as possible, and we have solid grounds to justify our decision.

Before removing his Favour, I had run another check on him with my upgraded Eyes, in addition to the numerous psychiatric evaluations, and also the Telepathy of Haru, he had endured previously. Everything pointed to him not being affected by the Favour of Chae Cho-Hee, unlike the others, but that he followed her out of some sort of twisted love at first sight, or obsession. Regardless, a Ministry hearing was held, and his Favour was forfeit, and he would also see time in prison for attempted murder of my sister and others.

There’s never an easy solution, is there? It’s only going to get worse, too… As we stepped out of Arisu-san’s Room and headed past the heightened security at the Ring Gate Hub, ready to transport to the lands of the Fae, Yukiko smiled warmly, though there was a trace of nervousness on her face. “I’m looking forward to seeing the Faerie mansion. And… finally being a true part of the group. It’s still rather hard on my nerves though.”

Arisu-san rolled her eyes. “This is merely the collection of those who will be following his excessive training schedules. You might regret those excited words in a short while. Though if you mean group as in his women, I think it is long past the point to fret about that. Your friend, Matsumuro-san, will surely help you acclimatise, and White… I confess I do not entirely agree with her motives, but I believe that Suzanne-san was correct. If she cannot have him all to herself, she wishes to demonstrate his superiority and her own place in his heart by having many gather around him, so that he is the envy of the entire world, and she can bask in that reflected feeling of glory. Besides…”

Now her expression was unlike the rather cold one she usually sported, it was wry, almost amused. “…the step from one to two certainly feels like cheating, an affair. Even two to three seems uncomfortable. But beyond that, the stigma, the strain is gone. I suspect you will integrate smoothly, you and the other Princess. And Princesses to come, apparently. Besides… it seems he is not merely the envy of the world…” Her onyx eyes showed a mixture of wonder and exasperation. “…even the cold Red has been charmed. It takes a will of steel not to fall into your clutches, it seems.”

“Your will is quite firm then.” Yukiko laughed as we entered the Ring Gate and vanished momentarily, that frozen moment of dislocation something I always tried to feel with all my senses, aiming to gain further insights into spatial element. As we reappeared, a new security checkpoint manned by Way-Wardens seeing who we were and waving us through, Arisu-san snorted.

“I am a pragmatic woman. And… I have few friends. Because I know what it is to be betrayed by those I loved, those I trusted, those who should have been acting in my best interests. Now… White is my friend certainly, and Red also, though… who can ever be sure of the feelings of a Goddess? Suzanne-san, she is perhaps as a foolish little sister to me, but a friend certainly.” She glanced at me then. “You too, Akio-san. At first I had a very poor opinion of you, but I judge on deeds, not hearsay. And I know you well enough now to know you abhor betrayal as much as I do, and you find it hard to lie. Perhaps it is your new nature. So yes, I count him as a friend too, Yukiko-san. And right now, I simply desire a place where I can feel safe from the constant backstabbing and lies of the world.”

Yukiko nodded. “That makes sense. Sorry. I didn’t mean to tease you. I’m just… really nervous. I’ve been talking to the other girls a fair bit on the phone, exchanging messages, but… this feels awfully like a formal marriage meeting, and I’m not even marrying them!”

“It is a… complicated… relationship. After all, you are going to have to live with them for many years, share your life with them, so I suppose it is not dissimilar. But trust me…” As we approached the mansion, Arisu-san gave a dry laugh. “…within a few hours, you will have more pressing matters on your mind, and will be wishing this was all that worried you.”

As Yukiko giggled, saying Arisu-san was making her nervous, the door opened, and Velna, Klena and the other maids greeted us. Once shown to the packed grand hall, where we would be having a quick banquet, before launching into my planned training, I took in the guests. Damn, there’s a big group. But with this many of us, all trying different things, there should surely be some breakthroughs…

Obviously, Shaeula, Hyacinth and Asha were all here. Shaeraggo and Shaeranna, as well as Ulfuric, Grulgor, Ixitt, Bjarki and Selensha, rounded out the Fae contingent. No, that’s not right. In addition, the Elves, Bell, Teare and Moira were here, and so was Princess Ffionnan. But the surprise was that Princess Estalian was here too, the little Sylph looking rather tipsy already, flitting around a goblet of Fae wine almost the size of her body.

Motoko and Natsumi were sitting with Kana, Hinata and Eri. On seeing me, they all smiled, each different but expressing the same warm emotions. My sis was sitting with them too, and on seeing me, she waved. “Hey bro. We caught up on the broadcast. Wow, way to make a scene.” Beside me, Yukiko flushed at that, as well as the warm gazes she was receiving from the others.

Haru was here too, as well as Suzu. The twins Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan were as well, and they were sitting beside Christina Bakker, who was eyeing me like a hungry predator, her face pale. The three of them were wearing devices designed by Bjarki and Ixitt, set with yellow and green Etherites, which were designed to make the much higher ether density here bearable for them, although the aim was to adjust the protection to as low as the wearers could tolerate.

It’s like the pressure of diving in the ocean, or perhaps a better example would be athletes training at altitude. If it can be tolerated, then it’ll be beneficial for their efforts…

Tsukiko was sitting beside Mae and Shinkume-no-Hana, who when she saw me, flourished her five tails at me, giving me an enticing grin. Ginneka was lying down in the corner, clearly still fatigued, but on seeing me she gave a weak, mewling greeting. Daiyu was occupying another section of the table, alongside Suk-ja, Yu-Mi and Violet. Yu-mi was also wearing one of the ether absorbing devices. Shiro was sitting alone, a pensive expression on her face, one of her eyes a deep crimson, the other black, and on seeing me, the red eye quickly faded to onyx, and she gave me a rueful, embarrassed smirk.

Miyu was here too, alongside Honoka-san and Sakura-san and their bodyguards. It seemed that Mayumi-san had also managed to inveigle her way in as well, and she was gazing around in wonder, a device on her chest too. I know that some of Ixitt’s Mortal Engineers have been making these devices for Adamant, I guess it’s good so many are finished…

Then my eyes met Eleanor’s, and she flushed, probably remembering we had agreed to get married earlier today. Seeing that, David, who had accompanied her, snickered nastily and raised one hand. “Yo. You finally made it, playboy. Ready to go those sixteen rounds?”

“Mr Reckless, please show some decorum in exalted company!” the schoolteacher Mary-Jane declared. Beside her, the young woman Cassie was bubbling with excitement about being here for the first time. On seeing that, Eleanor coughed, covering her embarrassment.

“Yes, David. Not… not today, all right? We’ll… be far too busy. Yes, too busy!” Her blush deepened, and David smirked, enjoying her discomfort, before waving a hand dismissively at me.

“Yeah, yeah, whatever. Anyway, old man Arthur, little Miss Asian and Raidre are holding the fort, with support from some of your guys, so… we’re here to party all night!”

Haanōbō, who seemed rather uncomfortable in all this company, shifted her white wings, her red, long-nosed mask dipping, but I was pleased to see she was fitting in, clearly having been drinking.

Lastly, Zachary and Bethany Wright were here, Zachary delighted and curious, Bethany seemingly wondering if she should be here, eyes darting around nervously. Aliyah, Treyvon and Luciana rounded out that group, also with devices. Yeah, this is certainly a big crowd…

“Yae-chan wanted to be here…” My sis noticed me checking out the guests. “…but she’s not ready for this, and Hinata, Shaeula and Shiro all agreed. Since she volunteered for Adamant, she needs to get her basic training and indoctrination…” My sis made an ‘oops’ expression at that. “…uh, scratch that. Well, not that Yae-chan needs brainwashing anyway… but yeah, just because she’s my friend doesn’t mean she gets special treatment. There’s a lot of them like that. The idols, Daiyu’s disciples, other nobles. But just as we’re training in the evenings, so are they. Instructors have been arranged, yeah?”

Ulfuric nodded. “Indeed. In both combat and spiritual matters. And we will be evaluating performances, to see if any prove worthy of being admitted to this more tailored approach.”

“Great. Anyway, Yukiko, Arisu-san, take a seat. Might as well enjoy ourselves before the hard work starts.” I suggested, and Yukiko nodded, before sitting down beside Eri.

“How’s it feel to finally have taken that step?” Eri asked her curiously.

“It feels… relieving? I’m… just glad it’s over. I still feel bad about butting in, but…”

“Don’t.” Eri shrugged. “We’re long past that point. Feeling guilty just makes it worse.” She glanced at Eleanor too, who inclined her head in a flustered nod. “Instead, just remember that and convert it into feeling grateful. I do.” She paused thoughtfully. “Besides, it’s been a long time coming. Ever since Tsukiko revealed her prophecy of the Princesses of the Six Paths, and we knew Shaeula and Shiro were two of them, this was inevitable. So you two can join us in making sure the next two don’t cause trouble.”

“Thinking ahead already?” Shiro snickered, and Eri rolled her eyes.

“Always. It’s my role. And I can’t do it alone, but…” As Shaeula joined Shiro in laughter, Eri addressed the two newcomers seriously. “…look, I’m a slow girl, when it comes to feelings. But I’m not an idiot. And… I’ve had some good advice.” At that Hinata nodded, amused. “Sometimes it helps to talk to others… outside the chaos. To us… this is becoming normal. But it isn’t. But one piece of advice he gave me stuck with me. At the end of the day, getting given what you want isn’t as satisfying as working for what you want. It may seem the same, but it isn’t. And Fukumoto-san was right.”

“He told you to call him Grandpa Kenji.” Hinata giggled cheekily. “Though I knew you wouldn’t. You’re still too stiff, Eri.”

“Maybe so. But that’s the way I am.” Eri shrugged. “Regardless, we’re getting off my point. Yukiko… Eleanor…” She struggled to not use honorifics for them, which was quite cute. “…I call myself first wife, but… it was just something Shaeula gave me, a sop to my conscience, a treat to stop me feeling so bitter. But… I think it’s a role I want to earn. It doesn’t mean I’m any more favoured, that’s not what first means… but… somebody has to manage things. I won’t do it alone, I can’t. After all, how can anyone manage this chaos alone? But…I want to be the sort of woman you can come to if you have concerns, and even if I can’t help, I can be a bridge between you and the others or talk to Akio if you’re too embarrassed. I need to be more than just his childhood friend.” Her cat ears and tail flickered. “Of course, I’m a fighter now, and I’m grateful I can finally stand proudly by his side. But… I also want a role in the more ordinary parts of Akio’s life. So I’m studying a lot, learning a lot, trying things out… we’re young yet. So… we can make mistakes, so long as we all pull together, and rely on Akio. But we also have to strive so Akio can rely on us!”

“I understand.” Yukiko agreed quietly. “And I have relied on Akio, maybe too much. So now… I can finally accept my feelings and give back!”

Eleanor agreed. “Yes, well… for me, it’s… particularly shameful. Oh God, I feel such a mess right now.” She stood clumsily, before bowing in a fair approximation of the Japanese style. “I have… been judgemental, and rather petty, considering. It doesn’t become a Princess, and more importantly, nor does it become a woman. So while I have apologised before, for the final time… I’m sorry. To belittle your agency is to deny your very selves. I’m… a rather ill-tempered woman, and not too clever, I’m afraid. So… please bear that in mind and show leniency. Because… even though it has not been officially announced yet… I too have been accepted by Akio.”

“We know.” My sis laughed, but again there were congratulations for her and Yukiko, and as they both were flushed and smiling, my sis continued. “…so aren’t you going to call them out?”

I glanced at Yukiko, who nodded, and with a smile, we communicated with the Regalia. Sword, Jewel and Mirror all transformed, dissipating and then reappearing in their Tsukumogami forms.

“Father, the air here is clear! I like it!” Tsurugi enthused, as she took a deep breath. Her earlier exhaustion was starting to clear, and her pale eyes surveyed the great hall and the banquet curiously. “What’s going on here?”

“A celebration, of some sort.” Yata observed, taking in the scene. “Perhaps an extension of the betrothal between father… our brother…” She paused, changing her manner of address. “…and the Princess of Imperial lineage and Amaterasu’s bloodline.”

“Brother, huh?” I heard my sis mutter, and she glanced over at Haanōbō as she said that. Oh yeah, there’s that complicated relationship too, isn’t there? Well, it’s all for the best, as if we can untangle it, the benefits are clear. And I’m glad Yata is making the effort… even if she finds it hard, it seems.

“I’m not sure, Yata.” Magatama frowned. “It doesn’t seem so simple. Though… we have slept a long time. Slept. But…” She glanced at me with her black eyes, giving me a gentle smile, before picking her words carefully. “…brother surely has reasons for gathering everyone here.”

“Stop calling father brother! He’s our father, he gave us life!” Tsurugi clung to my hand, pouting, and Magatama laughed warmly.

“I know. Calm down. But… it makes him a little uncomfortable, so we will do our best to accommodate him. Though of course, we think of him as you do, little Tsurugi.”

“Yes. We reflect what he wishes.” Yata agreed. “You… are quite childish, yet we…” she contemplated that. “…just what are we? Are we as we were before, even if much of our spirit was lost, the rest stagnant, decayed? No, we shall have to redefine ourselves anew. Wisdom dictates we seek our own answers.”

“I’m not a child, I’m father’s daughter!” Tsurugi puffed out her cheeks, tightening her grip on me. There were a series of reactions from those around the table, from amused to compassionate, some bemused, and even jealousy from one, Aliyah shaking her head, beads jingling, and I could hear her grumbling about ‘lucky bastard, picking up more cuties…’ from here clearly. But one reaction was abnormal, and I glanced at Mae as she stared at Magatama, her face unreadable, until even she noticed.

“Do I… know you?” Magatama asked. “If so, forgive me. Our fath… brother… he restored us, brought us out of the darkness, and even… even brought back the sun. It is faint, distant, but…”

Yata took over. “I can feel the warmth reflecting from my very self. It is a spark, but… sparks can grow to flames, to blazes, to great conflagrations, if nurtured and fed proper fuel.”

“She’s right, father!” Tsurugi agreed. “I feel better, sharper! It’s all thanks to you and first mother, I’m sure!”

I suppose that might be the belief that the Imperial Family possess the Divine attributes of Amaterasu, and also belief in the strength and purpose of the Regalia, but… that doesn’t answer my question. At my inquisitive gaze and Magatama’s query, Mae sighed, her tails drooping. “Recognise? Not… exactly. You have gained a sense of self again. When I first saw you… many, many years ago, you were… quite different… a beautiful, polished stone, yet not a mere rock…” She fell silent as Magatama clutched her head.

“I…” Tears squeezed from her black eyes, so Mae, perhaps remembering her own struggles, shook her head.

“It hardly matters. I sympathise. I too am not… entirely who I was. Simply rejoice in who you are now. If you wish to speak of it later, I shall tell you what I know, but know… it changes nothing. The past is dust, only the now, and the future we wish for, matters.”

“I…” Magatama repeated, Tsurugi looking on with worry, Yata observing her with her calm golden eyes. “…I am sorry. For a moment… no. I am Yasakani no Magatama, daughter of my father…” Back to that again, I see. Brother didn’t last long again… “…and benevolence itself. I need… nothing else.”

At that moment Shaeula stood, tapping her spoon loudly on her glass, the noise ringing out. As we all turned to her, she grinned, amber eyes sparkling. “This is all quite-quite entertaining, but… we shall have ample time to discuss this later, shall we not-not? For now… the feast is waiting! As this-this is my home, our home, so-so graciously gifted by my brother, I shall do the honours. In mortal terms, a toast-toast, no?”

With that, I urged the Regalia to grab glasses as well and take seats, though Tsurugi still clung to me, like a baby chick afraid to be separated from her parents. I could see Bjarki looking at her curiously, and apologised in my heart for her actions in destroying Storming Moonlight. Grabbing my own glass, I raised the goblet as Shaeula called out the toast.

“To-to the success of the Pilgrimage, and our own-own strengths!”

“To our strengths!” we echoed, and soon the room was once more filled with laughter and merriment…

***

The banquet had been a cheerful affair, a lot of fun conversation and banter. Eleanor and Yukiko were settling in well, though Eleanor was still standoffish and embarrassed, despite David’s, and surprisingly, Callie’s, urgings to be more sociable. Everyone, especially Aiko, had fussed over the Regalia, though I still caught Mae watching Magatama occasionally. When she met my eyes, she merely flicked her vulpine ears, as if signalling she would talk to me later, but my Eyes had already given me enough clues. I suspect if Tarōbō was here, he might have a similar reaction, maybe?

Now we had refreshed our weary bodies and spirits, I was humming with energy, my recovery surprising me. It seemed Tan had something to say about that, as it looked like she wished to speak to me, but every time she paused, unable to get out the words, leaving Shiro rolling her eyes in dry amusement.

“All right then!” I clapped my hands, Tsurugi finally having relaxed enough to release my hand a while back, which was a relief, as eating one-handed wasn’t a problem with my stats, but it felt wrong. “We’ve had our fun, and it was great to see you all, but… now it’s time to work hard. Today’s been profitable already…” Not in terms of money, I shudder to think just how much the first day of Pilgrimage cost, but… “…I can see that Kami-Blessed is starting to Level up within most of us. It never hurts to have more stats and abilities. Speaking of…” A team of burly Dwarves and Kobolds had brought over a number of massive bluesteel batteries, each the size of a whiskey barrel. The mines were producing more than ever before, due to a surfeit of miners, as well as some new equipment the Mortal Engineers had made based on mortal principles.

I hear that a number of the Mines are likely to Rank up soon, which would be a welcome boon. We need a great deal of supplies and Etherites, we’re getting through everything on an industrial scale.

“…I just want to say a few words. I know you all desire Divine Favours.” There were nods at that, and Mary-Jane looked particularly torn. Seeing that, I felt a sense of frustration. It’s going to be difficult, but… now I have more reason than ever to help her recover. Though, now they have Callie on their team, is being a healer really necessary for her? The support role is still important, but…

“But let me stress this. Whether you have a Favour or not… it’s not the limiting factor. I’ve been thinking…” I started to speak, and everyone hung on my words, even without my Majesty and Charm amplifying my charisma. I had given a number of speeches, and while many were clumsy, I had learned, and was now a fairly decent public speaker, a far cry from my more hesitant self of a few months back. “… I’m a programmer, even if I don’t have much cause to use those skills now. But… I think there are some similarities between our situation, and a computer. Favours… they’re like plug-ins for apps, a pre-packaged series of code that implements a specific set of functions, and even those who don’t have much talent can drop a plug-in into an app, making those features work. But… if we understand how to code, how everything fits together, we can replicate them, or even make different versions. After all…” I grinned at Shaeula, Hyacinth and the others who had powerful Unique Skills. “…some of ours are a match for any the Gods handed out.”

At my inspiring words, Christina raised a hand. She had behaved herself during the banquet, though I had noticed her growing ever more uncomfortable as she adjusted the device she wore, reducing its protective effect in stages, and her face was rather pale. Her blue eyes were still bright and feverish, however, and her blanched cheeks regained some colour as she gazed at me, reflexively licking her lips. “That does make sense, however… if that is the case, why can you not simply transplant your eyes, as you tried before?”

“That’s right bro!” my sis agreed. “If your Eye is just a plug-in, then scoop it out, pop it in… wow, that’s a gross thought, but I’d still do it… and it should work just like from the anime with the brightly coloured ninjas, right?”

“A good question, and I should have expected you’d see that, Christina.” At my praise she giggled, pushing out her chest, and I looked away, but couldn’t help but sneak a peek. Well, her body has no sin, it’s just her heart and mind. Objectively, she’s a beauty with a great figure, so unlike the Japanese. I suppose Eleanor has a similar body line, if a smaller chest… not that Eleanor isn’t decently endowed.

“Anyway…” I set that aside. “You’re right. But some apps… they also need hardware. Like how a game can’t run without a powerful graphics card, or some programs need dedicated arithmetic chips or other specialised setups. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t still make it work. After all… we’re already working on our body’s hardware, aren’t we? In fact… isn’t that what you volunteered for, Christina?”

“Go easy on me…” She licked her lips again. “…or hard, if you prefer! I shall dedicate every nook and cranny of my body to your harsh inspection.” She glanced at my sis then, who looked rather disgusted. “After all, Akio loves you deeply, he wouldn’t want to damage your fetching blue eyes, leave you blind. So I shall be the guinea pig, so when we know it’s safe, and as painless as possible…”

“Wow. Uh… I don’t know how I feel now?” my sis grumbled. “You’re creepy, and I can’t say I like you, but… being kind to me makes me feel all petty and bitchy. Just wow!”

“Don’t worry.” David scoffed. We had been talking in a mixture of English and Japanese, but everyone here was either fluent in both, or learning, and with our stats it wasn’t hard to learn fast. Even Suk-ja, who spoke no English or Japanese when we first met, was picking up quite a bit while she served out her contract here.

“That bitch doesn’t deserve your sympathy…” he continued, eyeing her balefully. “…but if she’s going to make herself useful, I suppose I’ll give her a little credit.”

“Why thank you!” Christina missed the point, or perhaps she was being deliberately obtuse. She was changing so fast it was sometimes hard to tell. As David merely snorted at that, Yukiko raised a question.

“Akio, are you going to be all right? First you awoke the Regalia, and then you did that with me during the broadcast. You must be exhausted and rather low on elemental energies?”

Seeing her so concerned for me warmed my heart, and my other women seemed to take it well, smiling wryly and rolling their eyes at each other. Setting her mind at ease, I grinned cheekily, pleased that a marriage that was arranged was not based on gain, but on affection. Not that I’ll turn down the gains. I can’t afford to now. My Path leads to one destination. And that’s Astral Emperor, and… beyond.

“Actually I’m fine. Not only can I tap the Territory supplies, though I’ve been sparing with that as we’ll need it during these training sessions, the trainees back in Tokyo too, but… since I restored the Regalia and the broadcast, I’ve been positively humming with energy. Though there’s a certain discomfort and pressure within me.”

“I believe you are struggling to condense a Divine Spark, kindling Divinity.” Tan spoke up, overcoming her reticence. Shiro moved her arm, giving me a cheeky thumbs up, before her other arm moved, thumb and forefinger making a ring, her hand pushing her index finger through it rapidly, before Tan scowled, halting her movements. “Stop that.” Shiro’s face flushed nearly as red as Tan’s hair and eyes, and I felt it was Tan who was showing that emotion, a rare sight. “This is a serious discussion. Your strength has grown, but… we all have limits on our vessels. Life… is not equitable. Not here, and not in the Pantheons above.”

“I don’t get it?” Kana asked, having been listening intently. “I mean no disrespect to my Kami, but… Shirohebi, the Jade Beetle Kami, many of the others we met today… they all have Sparks, right? But they are far weaker than Akio. So why is it a big deal?”

“A pertinent question.” Tan allowed. “Now…” She turned to Daiyu. “Cultivation, what is it for?”

“It is the path to growing the self, obtaining and making power our own, to understand the world around us and our own Dao, and ultimately, to reach immortality, beholden to none but our own wills and Dao. And…” She smiled softly. “…those who share our Dao, our Companions, of course.”

“Well said. But… beings of spirit such as these Fae and Yōkai… would you not say they are immortal?”

“No.” Daiyu shook her head at Tan’s question. “Even the spirit eventually fails, I understand. Though compared to those of us standing on the foothills, even thousands of years of life is enviable.”

“Yes. You are correct.” Tan praised her with a nod. “Cultivation is indeed a Path beyond mere transient immortality. Else why not take Akio’s way and become a creature of spirit? It is far from easy, but… not too fraught with peril.”

Princess Estalian, who had been listening as well, nodded. “The Scotsman. The Queen did help him achieve such. And then there is… her. The Enchantress… if I never see her again it shall be too soon!”

“Vessels, then?” Kana asked, tying Tan’s words into the conversation with Daiyu.

“Indeed. One’s vessel is important. League is the strength of one’s true self, one’s vessel. A small vessel can hold strength, but a larger one… more room for greater strengths. Beyond the heights of Cultivation you see, young woman, are peaks above peaks. To be truly Immortal, beyond even the impermanence of spirit, and more… to have the strength to avert death. For even those who do not perish, can be perished.”

“I get it.” I nodded. “So, the Divine Spark, the power of adherence, it’s a way of breaking open and expanding my existence. Astral Emperor too?”

Tan inclined her head. “Indeed. Perhaps the strongest way. But to claim a suitable world is… challenging. And so few succeed, even in the Pantheons. Compared to the numberless dwellers of the higher Astral, as grains of sand on a beach, the number of Astral Emperors is but a tiny handful.”

“Cultivation is the pursuit of expanding our vessel so that we may fill it with strength?” Daiyu understood, and Tan smiled.

“Exactly. Cultivation, Divinity, Astral Emperor… there are others too. All Paths are separate, but all converge on one destination. And who can say which Path is superior? After all, it is he who walks the furthest that will know the true answer.”

I nodded. My Path… is a new one, apparently. But I certainly don’t want to toss aside the paved ways my forebears have laid for us. I’ll just… take the best of them all and use it to pave our Path. “That was fascinating. Thanks, Tan. As always, your insights are wonderful.”

She flushed anew, nodding, before her hair and eyes reverted. “She’s going to watch for a while.” Shiro grinned. “That took more of her courage than she’d like to… oh, who cares if he knows, Tan? Aki’s… no longer an idiot. I mean, he didn’t play dumb with Eleanor and Yuki anymore, did he?” Shiro chuckled, before glancing at Bell and Teare. “Might be a good time to bring your best moves.”

As the two Elves laughed, I shook my head. “There’ll be time for fun during the Pilgrimage. For now… it’s time to get down to it.”

As everyone agreed, I separated everyone out into the groups I had planned, before beginning to explain everyone’s roles… This is going to be hard work, but… with so many of us trying our hardest, some of us should have breakthroughs…

***

“So, I want you to pour out your metal element, Hinata. But not just that. Mutated gold element is probably going to have the biggest impact on Aiko’s Golden Sister Army, so I want you to practise turning your metal element into gold.”

Hinata nodded, brown eyes clearly showing her excitement. “I’ll do my best. You’re right, I still don’t know how to fully utilise my powers yet, but gold element also has the biggest effect on Claíomh Solais, I think.”

“I appreciate this, Hinata!” my sis enthused, all pumped up. “You too, Chiaki-chan, Chiasa-chan! And of course you, Haru-chan!” We had a battery-sized barrel shimmering crimson with earth element from the Territory, as first my sis was going to learn earth, making it theoretically easier to balance metal element.

As the three of them waved off her praise, I shook my head. “No, she’s right. My sis is very thankful, and so am I. But… it’s not just my sis I’m hoping to empower here. Haru, you two… I’d like you to help out everyone where needed, but also draw on everyone’s experience to enable your own gains.” I looked at the twins seriously. “If anyone can master all the elements, I think you two can. Oh, and you as well, Haru.”

Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan exchanged glances, before they both spoke together, bowing deeply. “Akio-sama, we will do our best to meet your expectations. After all, Divine Taṇhā declared you would soon spark Divinity, become a Kami yourself. We… would be your first shrine maidens!”

At their earnest, almost fervent gazes, I felt the pressure of their expectations, but I patted them on the heads gently, though Tsurugi, standing beside me still, glowered at them with a hint of jealousy, moving closer to me, until our bodies were touching. My sis held in a laugh at that behaviour, before snorting, unable to contain her giggles any longer.

“Damn, you’re both too cute. But… I’d talk that one over with Kana first, okay?” I noticed my sis was also making a greater effort to drop the honorifics for the rest of my women lately, which was a good thing. “Of course, she might not want to be his shrine maiden, it’s a bit weird, worshipping your husband, isn’t it? But… it’s polite to ask.”

They exchanged glances and some rapid communication, most likely, before nodding. “I thank you for your advice, Aiko-sama!” “We shall most certainly consult with Kana-sama, our senior!”

“Great.” I approved. “Just… don’t try too hard, okay? But I know you can do it. Haru, keep an eye on them so they don’t overdo it, okay?”

Haru rolled her eyes. “Sure. More work. But… I’ll do it. Honestly, I’m quite curious as to how all this will go. If our resident Goddess…” She looked over to Shiro, who was hanging out with Yukiko and Eleanor, Magatama and Yata beside them. “…is impressed, it’ll be worth seeing.”

“Yes.” I nodded. “Honestly, if even one of these projects pans out, we’ll make huge progress. So try your best, sis. We don’t want to disappoint Haanōbō, do we?”

The Tengu dipped her white wings, the set of her shoulders expressing frustration. “Disappointed? Me? It is Great Tarōbō who insists on this. We have no Summer South, nor Autumn West…” Her voice faltered a little, and I gave her a reassuring smile, which made her narrow her yellow eyes, tossing her head, violet hair flowing. “…and the Four Directions must always be our kin, to protect Mount Atago. Since… Great Tarōbō has accepted you as my brother, your foolish boasts being taken as fact…” I imagined she was scowling under the mask, but the exposed skin of her neck was somewhat pink. “…then your sister is my sister, and father’s daughter.” She had given up resisting. “And it so happens that as Autumn West, who praises Byakko, is of metal, and she possesses these metal warriors, gold being the noblest of metals… it seems like destiny.”

“Yeah, I get that, and I’m pumped!” My sis proved that by clenching a fist. “I want a cool Tengu mask too! But…” She narrowed her eyes. “You’re the older sister, right? Older than my bro?”

Haanōbō sighed, while behind us Eri was snickering to herself, well satisfied at my sister’s discomfort. Yeah, I imagine she’s enjoying the shoe being on the other foot here.

“I am no threat to you. It is simply father’s… Great Tarōbō’s folly, combined with Akio’s here, and my irritating brother Arangbō. He has changed his attitude towards me recently. It feels… complicated. But…” She sighed then. “The Four Directions and the Centre are all necessary. Therefore, train hard. It would be shameful for you to fail in receiving Byakko’s favour.”

“Training is my thing!” my sis insisted, and leaving them to it, I moved to the next group needing my attention, which was Motoko and Natsumi. I passed by Princess Ffionnan, who was drawing light element from a battery with an expression of concentration on her face. I had anticipated Moira needing to do similar work, but it seemed I was mistaken, as she had already mastered darkness element. She was certainly diligent, and I imagined it was mostly to spite Duke Vulpatrius. With that said, I sent her to aid her fellow Elves, and hoped they would get along better in the process.

Seeing me approaching, Motoko and Natsumi, who had changed to their favourite blue and white training hakama, as it made them feel the most relaxed, brightened. Ulfuric was with then, as was Shaeraggo and Shaeranna.

“Akio.” Motoko’s tone was loving. “I am glad to see you well.”

Not to be outdone, Natsumi hugged me boldly, the feel of her body through her hakama alluring. Seeing that, Motoko flushed, before joining the hug. After we parted, I took out a bundle I had Nie Ling transport over for me before I arrived here. “So then. All my talk about Favours…”

Motoko nodded. “I understand. We showed our strength during the attack on Hanafubuki. But…” She exchanged a knowing look with Natsumi, who nodded assertively. “…we still were nearly found wanting. Only the carelessness of our enemy enabled us to win, and we nearly perished despite that.”

“Yeah. I know that Favours aren’t our own strength, but borrowed… yet, we can make them our own, and use them to push on to greater heights!” Natsumi insisted.

“We are flowers, yes.” Motoko eyed Miyu and the other daughters of the Three Great Houses with her. “But we are roses with thorns, not delicate orchids to be admired. We shed blood, ours and theirs.” She bowed to Ulfuric then. “Master Ulfuric, do you think it is wrong of us to grasp for greater strength, to protect others?”

He shook his head. But before he could answer, David did. He had strolled over, obviously bored. “Nope. You and fangirl here, you’ve got guts. I heard all about your battles, wounded near until death, yet still pushing on until all your enemies were dead. You’ve got more fucking guts than half of Britan’s Gods’ Chosen, that’s for sure. I’m not particularly keen on letting women fight, but… shit, I’m not a chauvinist. The Princess never backs down, even when she’s afraid and crying.” He winked at me then. “Guess it’s your job to wipe those tears away now and be her shield. Glad you finally manned the fuck up when it counted and didn’t bullshit her.”

“I wouldn’t. I couldn’t.” I shook my head. “Despite our rocky start, I find her valour very appealing, and like Eri says, it just feels inevitable.”

“Yeah well, don’t phrase it like that. And instead of the way you put it, try saying you love her.” He winked at Natsumi and Motoko. “I’m right, yeah?” As they nodded, I gave in.

“Sure. Motoko, Natsumi, I love your dedication and bravery, your pride, your commitment, I love you both.” As they blushed, and David nodded in satisfaction, I soothed Shaeula’s siblings, who seemed unhappy. “I love Shaeula too of course, her loyalty, cheeky sense of honour, noble poise… don’t worry, tomorrow’s her day.”

“As it should be.” Anna nodded. “My adorable, darling little Ula is most excited, deeply thrilled at the prospect of spending the day with you. In exchange… we shall aid these two, assist this pair.”

Ulfuric nodded. “Yes. Take what strength is offered, but do not forget. Your own roots are the truest strength, for a tree without deep roots may appear mighty, but a strong wind will topple it.”

“What I think the big guy is saying is… you are warriors. So hone that. Leverage your gifts, your guts.” David agreed.

“In that case… there actually are options, you know? But I have a choice. You… want to be your own woman, not just Motoko’s shadow, right Natsumi?” I asked, and she glanced at Motoko, biting on her lip, before nodding.

“I love Motoko, and want to spend my life with her, together with you. I love Tsumura Arts, but… I also need to find my own path. I think that’s essential. My own Tsumura Arts. I’m Hori Natsumi, and Motoko is Motoko. We should compliment each other, not replicate one another.”

Motoko nodded, her smile warm. “Indeed.” Her brown eyes shone with emotion. “I love you too Natsumi, and also wish to spend eternity with you and Akio, and all our sisters and friends. I wish to see you take Tsumura Arts and improve upon them in your own way. Our future children deserve our best efforts in being our best selves, and bequeathing them the most beautiful and deadly Tsumura Arts we can forge!”

“How touching. Fuck, now I really wish I had time to beat you up.” David scowled at me, though he was clearly teasing. Honestly, David was quite good company, if you ignored his incessant swearing and boasting. Well, I’ll have to take him out for a drink or ten, since I’m stealing his Princess.

“Instead…” He smirked at Natsumi and Motoko. “…rejoice, fangirl, warrior woman. You pair get to receive personal instruction from the King of the Octagon, David Reckless himself! And I won’t go easy, because I know you pair have what it takes and don’t fear a little pain.”

“All right. Originally… I had two warrior-based favours. Ògún and Nkunim. I think with the methods that we’ve deployed before, and Miss Aditi’s insights, you could become compatible enough. But… they are both along the same lines. There’s… a third option.” I offered.

As they stared at me eagerly, I explained. “Ògún, I also have other ideas for that. And Nkunim is a God of Victory, as well as Battle, and I think the Favour doesn’t clash too much with your martial spirit. It’s… balanced with you, if you get what I mean?” As they nodded, I continued my speech. “Ògún certainly has a flavour that would suit you both, but… it’s more focussed on empowering your weapons and metal element. Instead… if you want to compliment, not mimic, each other… I think this one would suit.”

Chollima’s Thousand Li Wings: Crafted from concentrated Adherence, refined Ether and Soullight infused Truesoul strands, this Favour allows the bearer to move and react with incredible speed, as well as increasing affinity with Wind Elemental energies.

Just as the Divine Chollima, mighty winged horse that sparked its own Divinity, crosses a thousand li with a single beat of its wings, scattering the winds, so too shall the bearer of this Favour find themselves able to move faster than the wind, their strikes swift and true. [Class: Imperious] [Type: Principle]

“It’s not guaranteed…” I warned. “Yes, there’s wind element compatibility, and you’ve trained to be swift as part of Tsumura Arts, but… it could well fail. But if you ask me, a tough warrior tank, and a swift, unpredictable attacker, makes a great combination.”

The two of them exchanged a long glance, Natsumi grinning broadly, Motoko with a brighter smile than she usually displayed. Natsumi was the first to speak. “Akio’s right. He gets us well, doesn’t he? We’re lucky.” As Motoko nodded, she continued. “You know, as a bodyguard, I definitely should be taking blows to protect you from harm, Motoko. I’m proud I was a bodyguard… but now I’m more, and you’re more to me too.” Motoko nodded once more, smile amused.

“We’re sisters who love the same man. So while I want to protect you, keep you safe… I also want you to be your best self, Motoko. I’ll take the chance on speed!”

Motoko nodded. “Very bold, Natsumi. But… no, if there is the chance of failure, then I shall stake my claim on Chollima’s Wings. For to me, you shine Natsumi, and if anyone embodies victory, it is you!”

“Oh, so that’s how it is?” Natsumi naturally fell into a fighting stance, and Motoko mirrored that. “In that case…”

“We settle it in the ring!” David broke in. As the two girls glanced at him exasperated, he ran a hand through his brownish-blonde hair, smirking. “Don’t look at me like that. You got me fired up. So… we’ll do it my way. Get an Octagon built out here, and we four will guide you.” David grabbed the papers from me. “Details you’ve dredged up on Nkunim and Chollima, huh? Yeah, we can make this work.”

“Just remember…” I warned them, not that I had concerns. “Even when fighting, you’re friends, right?”

“You worry too much.” Natsumi giggled. “Motoko and me, we’ll never let anything come between us, even if one of us fails to gain Chollima’s Favour. And… there are no shortcuts to true strength. The Favour is just so we can prevent future tragedies like Hanafubuki from happening again.”

Motoko agreed. “Natsumi is my dearest friend, though all the others are dear to me too. Our rivalry is because we wish to be the best we can be in each other’s sight. And in yours, Akio. So… leave it to us. We will succeed, no matter what!”

“You heard the girls!” David snorted. “So get lost. You’ve got your own shit to do, and many more groups to check on, right?”

I nodded. “Fine, I’ll leave them in your hands. Teach them well!”

***

After leaving Motoko and Natsumi, I set several other groups to their tasks. I avoided Bjarki, speaking to Ixitt instead, but he knew something was up. I’ll deal with it later. Now I was approaching the group of Asha, Shiro, Miyu and Michiru-chan, along with Yata and Magatama, and also Suk-ja and Yu-mi. Oddly enough, Mae is with them too. I thought she’d be waiting with her granddaughter for me to join them. The other noble daughters and their bodyguards were milling about with them uncertainly, and I glanced at the devices they wore.

Truly ingenious. They use the side effects of Ixitt’s artificial Ether Spires, the lowering of surrounding ether density, in a controlled way to prevent the wearer’s Silver Cord being overly pressured. The possibilities are endless, and more importantly, it allows even those whose Cords are weak to visit the lower Astral…

My Eyes glowed softly as I observed Magatama again, seeing to the heart of her ability.

Benevolent Radiation [Class: Mythic] [Type: Law]

As the Kamuy Suma-no-kamuy, a brilliant stone in the possession of Apemerukoyan-mat Unamerukoyan-mat, Kamuy of the Hearth and Warmth, Suma-no-kamuy was responsible for absorbing and radiating heat gently, offering soothing, kind warmth in even the harshest winter. Lost to the Kamuy of the Hearth due to some unknown calamity, Suma-no-kamuy was broken, shattered, and the heart remained, a beautiful green jade-like magatama of unknown material.

Over time this magatama bead was infused with incredible Adherence of the Sun, and the warmth within was rekindled, and a Tsukumogami sparked into being, though it retains little to no memory of its previous existence. Yet the ability to absorb, strengthen and radiate remains.

Still compassionate and benevolent, powers used for destruction and evil will rebound upon the wielder, while blessings and energies used for good shall be magnified and radiated, becoming stronger, and due to the Adherence the Yasakani no Magatama, as she is now, possesses, Skills and energies related to Fire, Warmth, Growth, Earth, Stone, Crystal, Temperance and Benevolence are especially strengthened.

Yeah, just like when I used my light and Yukiko’s to banish the night and the storm. She’s a battery and amplifier both, but only of certain things. But for our purposes… I wasn’t sure what to say, and Mae was urging me with my eyes to keep silent, so I decided I’d talk it through with her first before speaking to Magatama.

“So, do you think you can do it?” I asked Magatama, who gave me a gentle smile, her shimming, crystalline green hair and black eyes giving her an unearthly appearance, somehow ethereal. “If not, don’t push yourself. But…” I nodded at Suk-ja. “You can help out with your crystal element. I think it’ll strengthen her.”

“Suk-ja will exceed your expectations, I’m sure. We have to prove that we Koreans aren’t all like those wretched politicians.” Yu-mi giggled, patting her back reassuringly, while she puffed out her chest, looking rather fetching in her Adamant Officer uniform, a device around her neck keeping the ether density from affecting her too badly.

“Thank you, Yu-mi-unni!” Suk-ja flushed, pleased at the praise. “I’ll do my best! I’m grateful for the opportunities I’m getting here, even though I’m just an employee Hunter.”

“That’s the spirit.” Shiro laughed, before yawning theatrically. “Tan’s going to offer her insights too, but she’s rather… distracted.” She glanced off to where Shaeula, Kana and a number of others were gathering, and that was my destination next. “Experimenting on eyes makes her shy. Pretty damn funny though. Shit, she’s such a blushing virgin. All right, all right, I’ll change the subject. Sorry.” Shiro snorted. “Anyway… I’m buffbot again, and Miyu here is going to dance until her feet fall off. Asha… well, we all know why we want to boost our buffs.” She cast a glance beside her, where the plundered wheel we had captured, or rather Mae had, the Rota Iudicii, rested. Another potential battery or amplifier…

Asha’s smile was warm. “My Tree, my second self, is eager to help. Though have no fear, I shall do naught to risk our daughters.”

“When Hyacinth and Princess Estalian finish, have them come help.” I suggested. I exchanged some more chatter with them, and as I turned to leave, satisfied that everyone knew what they were doing, Mayumi-san spoke up, a little hesitant.

“Akio-kun… what… what should we do?” Honoka-chan nodded as well, but strangely, Sakura-chan seemed much more composed than usual, merely waiting for my answer, her brown eyes contemplative.

“A good question. You could have been perfectly happy with training back in my Territory, but since you couldn’t be left out and nagged Hinata, Mayumi-san, you can join in training here. But… it’s going to be hard going. If you don’t master at least an element quickly, I’m going to be annoyed. And also…” Mayumi-san gulped as I stared at her, but she managed a slow nod. “…if I get a chance, Ether Healing training. It’s not standard for the trainees, but for Adamant members and those important to me… it’s vital. Hurts like hell though, so guess you’ll just have to deal with it.”

“How rude.” Mayumi-san crossed her arms. “Also… please don’t call me Mayumi-san… it makes us seem like we aren’t close!”

“Fine.” I gave in. If she wants to be close, I’ll give her too much closeness and it’ll make her back off. “Mayumi, you wanted to be here. I get it, you feel left out, but Hinata and Miyu would be here anyway, and Honoka-chan is under my care now, and Sakura-chan joined Adamant and Hinata wants her cousin groomed for command. Your bodyguards always accompany you, so… uh, what’s up?” Did I overdo it? Her face is red.

“Nothing!” Mayumi fanned herself. “Yes, much better. After all, Akio, we’re partners, who share the same fate. Business partners!”

If she’s got the leisure to joke about things, them she can’t be too stressed. “In that case, seize the opportunity. We have every one of the seven standard elements available, since Arisu-san is helping out. Make your choice and try hard. We have a lot of expertise here. Anyway…” I turned away, back to Shiro. “Buff me up before you get started?”

With a smirk, she waved a hand. “Sure. I’ll do my part. It’s quite the change that I’m the one lording it over Tan.” As I felt power surging through me, I couldn’t help but agree. It’s fresh seeing Tan acting so… so girlish. Normally she’s the brusque, cold, almost at times cruel mentor figure. But now… she seems so much younger. It’s cute, and it makes me wonder… Using all my Resilience to keep my face impassive, thoughts hidden, I nodded to everyone, before heading off for the final group…

***

“Stop-stop complaining, you worthless cat!” Shaeula criticised Ginneka, who was lying sprawled on the ground, still fatigued from the hard work of helping me restore the Regalia. Tsurugi was still with me, having followed me everywhere since, and she stared at the silver-furred Yōkai with some curiosity, perhaps vaguely remembering her aid.

“Nya, so cold! So cruel! It is true what they say, nya, the weasel princess is mean!”

“I shall give-give you mean, wretched slutty cat…” Shaeula narrowed her eyes, before Eri stepped in.

“Please leave her alone. I know you hold a grudge, but… she’s doing her best. Aren’t you… big sister Ginneka?”

Ginneka’s tail flickered. “Nya, at least you keep your promises. Yes, I try hard. So many handsome men about, and Ginneka has none. Ginneka itches so, feels the heat inside, but… nya, I remain composed. It would not hurt you to share a little, nya! I’m not asking for much, just…”

Eri’s obsidian gaze hardened, and Ginneka shook her head, ears flat against her skull. “Nya, poor me, even my new little sister won’t share with me!”

“Best quit while you are ahead, Bakeneko.” Shinkume-no-Hana barked a laugh, her five tails fanned out, waving like fans. “They have you all figured out, a shame…”

“That goes for you-you too, fox!” Shaeula warned. “You should not-not get too close to Akio!”

“Too close?” she snorted. “He holds my very spirit in his hands. We cannot get closer than that. But for now… I will defer to your angry warnings. So like your mother. No patience, all sharp winds and spite. Really…” She winked at me. “…I would be a kind, motherly woman, holding you to my ample bosom, and I would teach you so many things…”

There was laughter from some of the group, and dangerous glares from the rest, so I decided it was time to intervene. “All right. Enough playing around. We’re the last group to get started.” Ginneka and Hana had been joined by Shaeula, Kana, Tsukiko, Daiyu and the Wright siblings, who seemed a bit confused. Zachary had been buffed by Shiro, as had Shaeula, and I now wore the Anulus Fortunae around my finger, Shaeula having lent it to me. The jade glow of the fortunate winds also blew about me, stronger than ever, and Zachary was using his own luck manipulation ability to enhance me as well. If skill can’t succeed, I’ll take luck as a fallback option.

There were two other members of the group, Christina, who was toying with the device that protected her, seeing just how far she could push it before her Silver Cord started straining alarmingly. When I had warned her a Silver Cord snapping would kill her, she had just shrugged and pointed at Tsukiko, claiming I’d bring her back. I almost felt sorry for her when I told her there was no way she’d be protected by Kin Bonding, at least until she crossed her legs as if hiding something, her skin bright red. Damn, she’s one hell of a masochist. Then there was Mary-Jane, who was seemingly composed, but despite her calm demeanour, I could tell she was being tormented by a mixture of guilt, regret, anticipation and resignation. I’m not sure If I can solve her problem yet, but… these experiments will help towards that goal, certainly.

“It seems you are as popular as ever.” Christina chortled. “I know just how they feel though. We are natural allies! We should brainstorm together after this is done!” she suggested to the two Yōkai.

“Nope.” I shot that down. “Anyway… we’re here for some serious experiments on the nature of our Astral bodies. I’d like to wrap it up quickly, as I also want to try something else, well, a few things, really, but… this first.”

With the time dilation, we’ve likely got around a day of objective time before we have to restart the Pilgrimage’s second day, and more importantly… Shaeula was staring at me hungrily, and I knew she was looking forward to spending her birthday with me however she wanted. I had planned out a couple of events, but most of it was left to her, and she had promised to surprise me. I’m not sure whether to anticipate it or dread it. Certainly the former… though I suspect some of the day will be bad for my heart…

“Firstly, I’ll fix up your Favour, Ginneka. Now I’ve more experience after Azuki, I can mesh it properly. I also want to touch on your Night Orbs too. And… can you still use your Thieving Cat Skill? And return the stolen Skill afterwards?”

“Yes, no problem, nya.” she boasted tiredly. “For you, I shall do my best, nya! I yearn to be of use to such a hot, virile… nya, that hurt!” She clutched her head, blue eyes with tears in them, as Shaeula whacked her with a firm strike of wind element.

Ignoring that, I nodded. “Great. I learned a lot about my stolen Skills before, it’s another avenue to exploit. I want to check out your body as well, Nebisuki.”

“Oh, my body is open to you for whatever you desire.” she chortled. “Sadly, I am aware it is simply to prod, poke and tear me inside, in the name of research. But… even if you do not compel me, I have no regrets. And I trust…” She carefully cradled her fifth tail. “…in you. So use me as you wish.”

“I hate the way that sounded rather romantic.” Kana shook her head. “Anyway, Daiyu, we’ve got to investigate your network too, right?”

Daiyu nodded. “Yes. Though I must be handled with care. Cultivation is a very regimented system, to carelessly toy with my body with Chirurgery could cause untold complications and potentially lead to Deviation, which would be ruinous.”

“Which is where little Miss Christina comes in. Ta-da!” She spread her arms wide. “I can be the test subject. If I break, well, I’m not much of a fighter anyway, am I? And I’ll accept the sympathy as well.”

“You always undercut yourself.” I sighed, and she shrugged.

“It’s who I am. I won’t ever change, at least not my winning personality. But it’s a true point, isn’t it? I’m expendable. So long as my brain and senses function enough for me to direct others, it doesn’t matter even if I’m crippled, I can still conduct research. Though honestly, like the fluffy fox here, I doubt it’ll come to that.”

“She’s crazier than ever, Zack.” Bethany muttered, and he flashed her a grin.

“Yeah, but my respect for Akio is skyrocketing. To think he can even handle her!”

Just how am I ‘handling’ her? “Anyway, I also hope to perform some repairs on your Favour, Tsukiko. It wasn’t passed to me cleanly, so… at the least I hope I can give you a little more power, and if we’re lucky… no, there’s no point planning for what might not happen. Though I feel rather fortunate right now.”

Tsukiko agreed with a warm smile, which made Zachary flush, bringing a chuckle from Shaeula.

“Yes, though… I would be content either way.” Tsukiko promised, and Eri shook her head, tail lashing as well, as she was in her half-Bakeneko form.

“Maybe, but we wouldn’t be. Anyway, doesn’t it make you happy, knowing he’s thinking of you?”

“Of course.” Tsukiko’s smile was gentle now, and her ruby eyes held a certain heat I had never seen in them before. “And soon… I shall show you just how much I think of you, Akio. But please, do continue.”

Holding in my own smile, I nodded. “Basically, we’re hoping to see if we can utilise Kana’s eyes. While I’m certainly going to give Tan my Eyes as promised, not everyone needs that sheer level of potency. Shaeula’s Mystic Eyes would be better, but there’s a big difference.”

“It’s like earlier. Software app, versus hardware, right?” Kana suggested, and I nodded.

“Yeah, you got it Kana. Your Skill isn’t Unique, like my Eyes and Shaeula’s. It seems like one variant of a natural ability to see ether, aether and the like. So I think we can make it work.” I considered the Favour I had retrieved as well. Perhaps if we use this too… “It’s certainly an area to experiment on. Though that’s by far the only thing we’ll be doing here.” I glanced at Mary-Jane, and she nodded slowly, her face now expressionless.

Eri then managed a dry chuckle, as she too had tasks I had suggested. “I can hardly wait. But I’ll do it. If it makes me stronger. I have my Favour, but… I want more.”

“You impress me, Eri!” Christina praised her, which made her shudder, the corners of her mouth turning down. “I am so jealous of your potential. Although… perhaps we can make it work. The dangers…” Her enthusiasm cooled down, and Shaeula eyed her with contempt, only to be surprised. “…well, better me than anyone else, right? After all, I have informed consent, am entirely willing, and …have the best medical care on hand. Psychological care too. So… we’ll push the limits of science, and even impress a so-called Goddess!”

“I’m up for it, I trust you!” Kana promised too. “But… my Eyes Of The Shrine Maiden kind of suck. Yes, I can turn them on and off at will now, and I can see abnormalities, and map aether flows, but when it comes to fine details like Shaeula or you can see, it’s hopeless.”

“For now.” I chuckled. “Only for now. We might even be able to improve them, and like all Skills, they can change and grow. After all, I haven’t given up on Shaeula’s Mystic Eyes.” Unlike my Eyes, which seem to connect to the World Tree, thus they need the Seeds as a catalyst, Shaeula’s Eyes use her own unique spiritual hardware. It’s probably beyond us, but… if I can use them as a model to improve Kana’s eyes enough and then share them… well, my sis and anyone else taking up Chirurgery, and yes, Christina too… will be happy…

“I should think not-not!” Shaeula agreed. “My Eyes are quite-quite striking, and most-most powerful!”

“Do you get wat’s going on, Beth?” Zachary asked his sister, and she shrugged, seeming rather amazed by everything so far.

“Not really, but I’m not stupid, Zack. It seems like some sort of magical surgery. Honestly… compared to our efforts in America, this is like a completely different world.” Her hand went to her side, pausing just before touching her body, fingers shaking, and Zachary shook his head, a slight smile on his lips, his expression knowing. Bethany flushed and withdrew her hand. “What? I… it’s fine.” She took a deep breath. “It’s not so frightening here. Besides… I heard about Miss Suzuki from Aliyah. Maybe… maybe I’ll get her to wash out my bad memories with her light.”

I nodded. “Not a bad idea, though… sometimes a little fear and regret helps us avoid making the same mistakes again.” I hadn’t let Haru use her abilities on me, despite it being sorely tempting. I needed to own my mistakes, otherwise I couldn’t grow. “Don’t decide in haste. The Pilgrimage is only on day one. Anyway…” I clasped my hands together, eyeing Ginneka, who shrank under my gaze, while simultaneously twisting her body to display it in the sexiest light possible, an amusing contradiction. “We’ll start by getting you optimised, give you some aether, and then… we’ll begin.”

Glancing at Tsurugi, who was watching with almost child-like curiosity, I held in a knowing smile. It’s amazing what’s a bond, a connection, isn’t it? That… that’s my key to making this work. The Path is untravelled, but other Paths going similar ways are paved by others, so… I can walk behind my seniors. I’m not starting from nothing…

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