On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

“You had quite the night, didn’t you, bro?” my sis teased, as we ate breakfast together in the Palace. The staff, aided by our own maids, had whipped up a significant British-style breakfast for us, and since our party was quite large, they’d had to drag in a number of smaller tables to seat us all.

“That I did.” I agreed, both proud and slightly ashamed. Kana was sitting on my left, Michiru on my right, Miyu next to her. Michiru had tried to insist Miyu should sit beside me, but after they argued over it, in the end Michiru gave in. Of course, Michiru being Michiru, she was constantly rubbing her feet against mine under the table, and her hand kept slipping down out of sight occasionally, going for me, then for Miyu to chastise her firmly, but that only made Michiru blush and pout.

Thank the Gods Kana is well-behaved. Honestly, for a reserved Japanese woman, Michiru fails hard. I don’t hate it, but… it’s a little stressful.

Indeed, to prove that point, Michiru was eyeing her breakfast disconsolately. Yes, bacon, sausages, hash browns, black putting, fried eggs, toast, tomatoes, beans, mushrooms… it was a heavy breakfast by Japanese standards, but that wasn’t why. As she squirted condiments over her food, she glanced down at me regretfully, licking her lips, before speaking some shocking words. “I feel the best sauce would be your sticky, white one, Akio-sama! I wish I could have it on every meal!”

I choked, and Kana pounded me on the back, until I swallowed. Shiro burst out laughing, and Eri simply snorted, rolling her eyes. The looks around the table were a mix of bemusement, amusement and in some cases rather horrified disgust. Oh, I totally get it. Who’d ruin good food with that?

“Michiru…” Miyu growled, but unlike she normally would, Michiru didn’t back down.

“I am sorry, Miyu-sama, but you cannot fool me! You too wish to drink deeply of his delicious sauce!”

“I do not deny that, but… it is not a food, Michiru! You are shaming me in front of everyone, in front of our sisters…”

“Hey, I think you don’t have to worry about that.” my own sis shrugged. “Here, Michiru’s not your bodyguard, or your responsibility, but just bro’s woman. Same as you.”

“That’s right.” Natsumi agreed. “To the outside world, I am still Motoko’s bodyguard, and so have to make sure not to cause her any disgrace, but here, when it is just us… I’m no different to her.” Motoko nodded, and Natsumi took it upon herself to offer Michiru some advice. “Even so… that puts me off my breakfast a little. But you’re in high spirits, so I forgive you.” She glanced back at Motoko, and they were both blushing. “We remember our first night. We were… how do you say it here, Eleanor… ah yes, on cloud nine.”

“I am not doing it to be crude!” Michiru insisted. “I sincerely feel it would make my food rather more delightful! Akio-sama, please, squeeze me out some and I shall keep it here…” She produced a glass bottle from the leather tool belts she wore around her thighs, flipping up her skirts to do so, flashing me her cute pink panties. Well, more on the sexy side than cute, I guess…

“Hey, well, we know it is medicinal…” Shiro laughed. “But from what I hear, you two went hard. Kana here knows how to keep it modest…” Kana was the one flushing at Shiro’s praise now. “…but you pair are just shameless. Aki doesn’t hate that though. No guy would. Still, I hear you drained him to the last drop. Nobody wants to see the poor guy straining over a bottle like trying to give a sample for a doctor. So be a good girl and we’ll bottle you up some tonight. I daresay there’ll be plenty going everywhere…”

At Shiro’s teasing promise, Michiru grinned and nodded, and I had the sinking feelings she wasn’t joking. “All right, I’m going to have to insist you never do that outside of the family, okay?” I warned, and Michiru, at my firm tone, nodded passionately.

“As you command, Akio-sama! It is true, only we should savour the taste, or even the smell, of your wonderful manliness! And I, Koga Michiru, live to follow your orders, and those of Miyu-sama!”

“Right. Right.” I nodded, exasperated, but pleased she at least knew her limits. I’m now not quite sure if she really wants to use my semen as a condiment, or she just wanted me to order her not to, so she could feel dominated. Yeah… she’s certainly a complicated young woman. But then, so is Miyu.

Kana yelped suddenly as I pulled her into a hug, but she soon relaxed. “What’s this for?” she asked, though I could tell from the wry stare in her soft brown eyes she understood.

“You’re just so easy to be with, Kana. I love that about you.”

“Oh, you!” she giggled, and after a playful kiss, which tasted of tomatoes, we went back to our food, and the mood around the tables was playfully harmonious. I turned my attention back to my sis, who was wearing cute but modest clothes, skinny blue jeans and a red t-shirt, layered with a blue cardigan.

“That look suits you, sis. You look like a pretty tourist.”

“In a way, I am.” she agreed, glancing at Eri. “Today, while you’re busy, bro… Eri and I are going to hang out with our parents.”

I see. “That’s… a good idea. The way we left it was… rather tense. It’s just…” I glanced at Eri. Even a few months ago I’d have said she was too shy to argue much, but now she was explosively outspoken, and my sis… yeah, this means too much to her to just keep quiet. Troubled, I frowned. “…we need to keep cool heads, okay?”

“It is fine.” Tsukiko, also dressed in quite a reserved manner, white jeans and a scarlet jumper dress over the top, hem down to her mid-thigh, with a high neck so showing off none of her ample cleavage, spoke up. “I shall be accompanying them. I will… try and keep things civil.”

“Oh. Great choice.” I nodded approvingly. “You’re got a very calming presence, and mom and father respect your wisdom and past efforts. I just hope it’s not too much of an imposition for you.”

“Wow, rude, bro…” my sis complained, and Tsukiko shook her head, smiling slightly.

“Hardly. My own parents are fatigued after several days of activity they are unused to. So I believe they will be getting the tour of the Palace… by your mother, Eleanor.”

“Yes. Mother and father want to spend time with everyone and their families.” Ellie agreed. “After all, they do worry still…” Ellie today was in a sharp blue female suit, matched with a crisp white shirt and the bronze necktie I’d bought her, and she looked both professional and also imposing, which was necessary for… later.

“Which is understandable.” Tsukiko agreed. “So, yes, I am free to assist your sister and Eri. And keep things harmonious. There is nothing we cannot discuss civilly.”

Tsukiko’s on our side. Aiko added mentally, not willing to say such openly. Maybe it’s because she’s died once before, or because she worships Tsukuyomi… proper worships, not like most of us who just visit shrines because it’s tradition… but yes, she wants to help.

I see. But she can only help if you stay calm. We… didn’t do so well last time, did we?

I know, bro. But… I can handle it if mom and dad are furious with me, even if they hate me, but… it’s not fair how they always assume it’s you who is at fault for everything. Look at everything you’ve accomplished! I don’t know what more dad wants from you! You’ve done more good for the world that anyone!

It’s rooted in concern, we both know that. Even if father’s awful at expressing things. He just… worries. And I can’t say he’s wrong to. But… I promised you, my dear sister, Aiko…  I want you to be happy in whatever future you choose, as that makes me happy…

Wow bro, don’t make me cry. I’ve put on some light makeup to seem more mature, and it’ll run! Yeah, I know. I want to make you happy too, bro. Though I’ve got stiff competition… Her thoughts playfully turned to Kana, Michiru and Miyu. …still, yeah… I’ll be as calm and as composed as I can be, bro. Trust me. I saw how you handled Yu-mi’s mom. It was better…

I do trust you, sis…

“That’s right.” Eri spoke up, having listened in. “It’s reassuring to have you with us, Tsukiko. You can offer another, more unbiased perspective. Mother-in-law and father-in-law will respect that. As for my parents… I apologise. I don’t know what they’re thinking.”

“As for me…” Shiro changed the subject, since it was a bit heavy for breakfast. “…now I can pop back and refresh the buffs on Asha’s Tree without any difficultly, most of my day is free. So I’m going to see if Hayato and the gang want to hit the town…”

“As for us…” Motoko added. “Daiyu, Natsumi and I will be going to the Boundary with David and some of Eleanor’s team. To help Mrs Mary-Jane acclimatise herself to her new abilities. We shall be taking some of Daiyu’s disciples as well, for some impromptu field training.”

“Do not fret.” Daiyu added. “We will not be mounting a major campaign, the likes of which is scheduled for tomorrow, merely defeating a few minor enclaves of nearby foes. The experiment shall do everyone good.”

As everyone else added what their plans for the day were, we finished up breakfast, to Michiru’s disappointment, mercifully without the food having been subjected to bukkake. Once done, I let Shaeula, and oddly enough, Yukiko, fix my hair and clothes, making me look the part. Shaeula and Yukiko were both in business suits today as well, Yukiko in white, Shaeula in a dark pink, as they were accompanying me and Ellie to deal with the British Chosen, both the American prisoners and... and the traitors.

“You look great.” Yukiko approved, smiling warmly at me.

“As do you. White’s your colour.” I chuckled. Indeed, there was something special about women in suits, they always looked at least twenty percent hotter, and Yukiko, wearing fashionable glasses, definitely looked like a go-getter businesswoman.

“Thank you.” Yukiko’s pale skin reddened, a nice contrast to her clothing. “Now then…” She tapped her phone, and as we went to leave, two familiar faces appeared, also dressed up like working secretaries, their skirts a lot shorter and their blouses a bit more provocative, though still classy.

“We are here as requested.” Kokuren bowed. Her hair was pinned up, while her sister Byakuren’s was in a long ponytail. That and the colour of their stockings and ties were the only differences in their appearance.

“Yes. We have studied all the… candidates…” Byakuren gestured at the tablet computer she held in her hand. “…and have the background information.”

“You can count on us.” Kokuren agreed. “This is a far more pleasant task than most.”

Yukiko smiled at me as I raised an eyebrow. “Haru and I felt it was time to put them to use. They are masters of appearing to be what they aren’t. Here, who’d think they weren’t just civil servants accompanying us? And as Kunoichi, they excel in information gathering, and speak a number of languages, English included.”

“That’s right.” Byakuren added. “We can tell a lot from body language, word choice, intonations, micro-expressions and more. And we have another trick.” Turning invisible, Byakuren then spoke.

Not that I can’t see her via the flow of energies, but yes, most people would be fooled.

 “I can wait behind. People often talk to themselves, spit out their true feelings, once a tense situation is relieved, especially if they’ve been isolated or imprisoned away from others for a significant length of time.” She then reappeared, and Ellie nodded.

“Yes, I approve. Besides…” her expression was hard. “…I’ve heard tell of much of what went on. That life… you shouldn’t have to bear it. It’s too cruel.”

“It is… but it was for the Village, and for Japan.” Kokuren sighed. “We are relieved, but… we still feel terribly guilty that we are the generation who will no longer have to lay down our bodies and our hearts to protect others. Our seniors… they gathered much information on our enemies, at personal cost…”

“Unless…” Byakuren said slowly. “…it is your will or desire, Akio-san. Yukiko-sama, you too can order us…”

“Nope.” I shook my head. “No way I’m letting anyone do that. Hell, if we need to seduce someone for information, I’d rather learn Shifting Cat somehow from Eri or Ginneka and do it myself.”

“No-no, Eri says she does not-not wish you to start attracting males.” Shaeula snickered. “Let that stinking cat do it, rather than these fine-fine females.” The two Kunoichi flushed under Shaeula’s praise. It’s hard to tell though whether that’s genuine or just their training.

Genine, I would say. Shaeula added mentally so as not to shame them. At least the feelings. I suspect the blushes are forced, through long training in self-control. I do pity them somewhat…

Me too. But… “No, even Ginneka has a right to dignity. And she’s trying hard, for her, I think.”

“See, Akio has boundless compassion, even for those who do not-not merit it.” Shaeula chortled, and the two women nodded.

“Sadly, there will always be those like you in the world, just as there always have been.” Yukiko was solemn now. “I feel sorrow that it was my Imperial Family who oversaw Kōga and perpetuated such. But now…”

“Yes. We do hope…” Ellie added. “…that you can be useful in warding off such potential traps around Akio and his close companions. Since you have experience in these matters…”

“Just in the matters, fortunately…” Byakuren added, and Kokuren nodded agreement.

“Yes, our chastity remains. Though… we had a great deal of training in seduction from our tutors. Women, of course.”

“Yes. It’s too hard to fake the initial reactions otherwise. Though… after our first mission…”

“That’s right, Byakuren. Once a mission that requires a blushing virgin is done, then true seductress training commences…”

“Fortunately, we were spared that, Kokuren…”

Damn, this got dark fast…

“Yes, Byakuren. We didn’t have to endure having to learn under all the old men…”

“Ahem.” I coughed loudly. “Nor will you. So… don’t think about the past. Think about the future.”

“We will. Thank you.” Byakuren bowed again.

“In all seriousness, much as I loathe the topic…” Ellie sighed. “…Yukiko is wise. If anything, seduction is going to become a valuable weapon. Before, American honey traps, Russians with their kompromat, Chinese with their beauty stratagems… yes, they could secure blackmail and leaked information… now, now they might be able to control those like you, Akio. And that would be worth almost any price…”

“Oh, undoubtedly.” Shaeula agreed. “He who controls Akio or those-those like him, controls the world. And to control a male…” Shaeula cheekily gave my groin a quick squeeze. “…I have found there is no-no better way than pleasures of the flesh.”

“You can’t tell me you don’t like it. I won’t believe that.” Yukiko rolled her eyes, and Shaeula snorted.

“I would not-not lie. It is not-not just males who can be seduced so…”

“Exactly.” Yukiko agreed. “I… have heard tales, at university. I try to be ordinary there…” Beside her, Ellie nodded. Our limousine had almost reached its destination, and the driver was both separated from us by soundproof glass, and one of Henry’s loyal lads, as he called them. “…even so, everyone’s a bit distant. But people still talk. There was someone in my classes who stopped coming. Apparently she spent all her money going to a host club and ended up in huge debts, trying to chase a man. Women are no more immune to seduction than men.”

“It’s true.” Kokuren agreed solemnly. “We’re also trained to seduce women. But mostly, it’s the male Chūnin who are trained in ensnaring women.”

“They like it though. Except when the woman is ugly or old… I still don’t feel pity for them.” Byakuren pursed her lips. “It’s different for them, although…” Suddenly her smile was wicked, and I felt it genuine, not forced. “If the target is a homosexual, then they must play the part. I suppose it’s the closest they can come to knowing our own sorrows.”

“Yes, that does relieve the ache a bit.” Kokuren agreed cheerfully, before addressing us solemnly. “Don’t worry about us. We… cope this way. But we’ll adapt. And we’re both grateful and sorry. Thank you for helping Himawari recover. I hear she’s gradually learning what it is to fill a new role, as are the others from our Village. Trust me, she and they will be useful assets.”

“As will we.” Byakuren promised. “We will sniff out such predators and spies, prevent them approaching you.”

“I would say we’ve nothing to worry about, with Haru around, but…” I grimaced, remembering. “…your Village proved her talents aren’t flawless. What she can do isn’t well known, but…”

“A true master prepares.” Kokuren agreed. “And no secret is kept forever, unless all but one party to it is dead.”

And you don’t mean in the sense Haru is now. I get it…

“All that rather gloomy talk should be set aside.” Ellie insisted suddenly, as the limousine pulled to a stop in north London, at a hastily converted building, which was now Britain’s correctional facility and prison for Chosen, similar to Japan’s one at the Ministry. “We’re here.”

“It’s fine.” I took Ellie’s hand, squeezing it reassuringly. “We’re with you. And it’s best to finally get it done. After all, you said that Sarah seems more relaxed now she no longer has her Favour.”

“Yes. She says she’s at peace, according to David. He still visits her.” She balled up her free fist tightly, even as the door was opened for us. I got out first, helping Ellie, then extended the same to Yukiko and Shaeula. Byakuren and Kokuren merely smiled knowingly and got out the other door, straightening their skirts.

“Now then…” Ellie took a deep breath. “No point putting this off. And you have a busy day ahead of you, Akio.”

“That I do. Now then, let’s go…”

***

After passing through the admirable security, some of the ideas quite ingenious, with rooms that could flood with knockout gas, to hidden flamethrowers and more, we found ourselves sitting in a rather quaint little room. After all, it wasn’t right to have the kidnapped Chosen handle negotiations inside a cell.

“So, first up…” Byakuren consulted the tablet. “…Matthew Johnson. Age twenty-eight. Favour is… from Manannán mac Lir. Some sort of silver scale armour.”

“Send him in.” Ellie added, her voice level, likely through great effort. Kokuren opened the door, and the man, handsome in a rather ordinary way, with short brown hair and blue eyes, walked in. On seeing Ellie and Yukiko, his eyes widened, but Shaeula was smiling winningly, as she seemed to get the biggest reaction.

“Take a seat, if you would.” Ellie gestured to him, and he nodded, sitting on the comfortable sofa set before the table we were around. “Before you say anything, once more, I’d like to apologise to you on behalf of Britain and the Crown, for failing to protect you.”

“It’s… hardly your fault. I was stupid. I mean, I posted online about it!” Matthew snorted, embarrassed. “Sure, I didn’t actually think anyone would believe me, but…”

“The Americans can be damnably clever sometimes. And when it comes to pattern recognition and data sifting, they even outdo the Chinese.” Ellie grumbled. “Now then, do you understand the terms? Don’t worry, even without your Favour, you’ll still be under our watch.”

“I do. The money will allow me and my family a great life. And…” His eyebrow twitched, lingering traces of his trauma, no doubt. “…it’s not like I’ll be unprotected, is it? And… if the nightmares come back…”

“It’s very easy for Haru to come and give you another session with her Light.” I promised. “And yes, the government here will have guards on you and your family. You won’t be helpless either, I assure you. Even with the Favour removed, you’ll maintain a good portion of your physical enhancements, and I can see this one…” my Eyes glowed amber.

Manannán mac Lir’s Silver Salmon Scale Mail is a Divine Favour crafted from concentrated Adherence, refined Ether and Soullight infused Truesoul strands. It allows the bearer to call upon a coat of silvery scales made from Adherence, and Elemental Water energies. This mail is extremely resistant to impacts and piercing, and using Water Elemental energies also applies a strengthening to Might and Fortitude, though the body will burn through stamina at a higher rate. Flame Elemental energies directed at the wielder will also be subdued, though Flames of significantly more potent strength will evaporate the scales.

Just as the Manannán mac Lir’s silver salmon pass messages throughout the seas, rivers and lakes, their scales warding off all impediments, so too shall the bearer of this Favour be wrapped in the strength of the seas, silver mail protecting from arrow, sword, bow, mace and flame. [Class: Imperious] [Type: Rule]

“…also gives you water elemental Skills and has a good Status balance. So you’ll be able to protect yourself and your family still, from ordinary threats. In fact…”

“Yes. I am most-most curious.” Shaeula spoke up as agreed, but by the gleam in her amber eyes, she did want to know. “Just how did-did you get captured? Those who assailed Akio were a nuisance, but if he could withstand the impacts, I see no-no reason why you were defeated.”

“That stings, that does.” Matthew chuckled, ashamed. “Like I said, I posted on the internet about my impenetrable magic scales. So they ended up drugging me.”

I see. I didn’t show any particular abilities other than poison resistance, to Aliyah, so they’d have given up on that angle, and felt that sniping me would have worked just fine…

“Yes, information management is rather important.” Ellie agreed, and Shaeula rolled her eyes.

Hinata was always saying the same thing. Not that there are not good reasons to show off sometimes. But… keeping trump cards hidden is wise. I have certainly learned that.

I nodded in silent agreement to Shaeula’s mental communication. We continued to chat to Matthew, before it was time. He signed the contract, received the generous payment direct to his bank account, and then it was my turn.

“Don’t worry.” I answered his unasked question with soothing words. “I’m getting better at it not hurting that much.”

“How reassuring…” Matthew managed dryly, and soon he was sweating profusely as I worked, but he didn’t cry out, perhaps as I used a little of my overflowing adherence to make the experience less fraught. Soon, the Favour was in my hands, and I applied Chirurgery, giving him a lunar Chakra and fixing up his sacral Chakra which was rather battered. Water elemental energy started to gather, and it seemed I was correct.

“Here.” Byakuren passed over a flash memory chip. “This contains some training methods for your new state, as well as your water element. It can only be accessed via your biometrics when inserted into your phone.” Apparently it was the latest technology, the sort spies used, or indeed, ninjas. “And the data within can’t be manually saved. Don’t copy it… and if you don’t access it after seven days, it’ll delete itself.”

Honestly, the data isn’t so critical that it can’t be leaked, eventually, training methods will be publicised. But having it so secure is psychological. Haru said it would be a good distraction for him…

“I’m grateful. And…” He then apologised to Ellie, which astonished her. “…I’m sorry, for what it’s worth, Princess. If I’d been more careful, I could have been fighting alongside you. Instead…”

“Think nothing of it. You are not the only one to make mistakes.” she replied, and then Matthew turned to me.

“Akio, sir. Look after our Princess, won’t you? She’s Britain’s pride, if… rather clumsy, it seems. Be good to her.”

“You can count on that.” We shook hands. “If you ever need anything…”

“I know. I’m just sorry… I can’t do this anymore. Not that I even really started…”

“Yeah, it’s a damn shame, but… I made many of the same mistakes. I was just luckier.” I reassured him.

“Hardly.” He glanced at Shaeula, the most natural smile on his face yet. “I just think you had the guts to not let your mistakes bar-bar your way.”

As Shaeula smirked at his joke, I shook my head. “No, I just wasn’t alone. And Ellie never will be again.”

As she reddened, Matthew’s smile matched Shaeula’s for wickedness. “It seems so. Ellie, huh? I guess I wasn’t ever cut out for this. But tell whoever gets this gift… use it wisely, and well, and make up for my uselessness, okay?”

“I will.” I promised. “Though I’ll be more complimentary to you.”

As he laughed and left, legs a touch unsteady, Byakuren consulted her tablet as Ellie let out a long sigh, Yukiko patting her hand comfortingly.

“All right, it seems that next is Louisa O’Connor, age twenty-one, Favour…”

All right. Time to shoulder the weight, so that Ellie doesn’t have to…

***

“Thank you. It’s been… I don’t know what it’s been.” the older man laughed bitterly, as he said his farewells. Moments later, he was out of the door, and as Kokuren closed it behind him, Ellie slumped back on her seat, both relieved and tense, two opposite feelings welling up within her.

“Relax.” I patted her shoulder. “So far, everything has gone to plan.”

“Yes, but this was the easy part.” Ellie was actually whining now, not acting her age, and it was adorable, so I gave her a hug, and, despite being embarrassed hugging in front of others, she reciprocated, burying her head in my shoulder. I guess all of her time spent watching the others, and even playing a little bit herself, has helped…

Eleanor is both bold and timid. I find her a rather likeable female…

As do I. But yes, considering the heavy petting we’ve done, a hug is nothing. Maybe it’s because our Kunoichi sisters are here…

Indeed, they were focussed on their tasks, but I could tell that Kokuren and Byakuren were interested in our hug. Clearing my throat, I spoke to diffuse the tension. “So, anyway, we weren’t sure what he’d do in the end. Originally, he was going to give his Favour up, then keep it, then give it up again. Even here he wavered. We’re a bit behind schedule…” I checked my watch, and indeed, time was a little tight now, but we still had some flex. “In the end, everyone decided it was for the best to bow out though. I don’t blame then. The Americans have a lot to answer for…”

“But callous as it sounds…” Byakuren added. “…I feel that any of those you gift the Favours will perform better, with your guidance, than those who originally possessed them.” She tapped on her screen. “So, we have Manannán mac Lir’s Silver Salmon Scale Mail, Fides’ Dutiful Blessing, Discordia’s Disrupting Darkness, and Sucellus’ Earth-Sundering Hammer. This last one is…?” She waited for my answer.

“Belatucadros’ Shining Horns. It’s an interesting Favour, light and wind.”

“Let me add it.” Byakuren tapped away. “And done. I assume you have some ideas already?”

“Of course, though as always, compatibility is going to be key. Though thanks to Aditi, Motoko and Natsumi, oh, and the Elves, we have a better idea of how to raise lacking affinity. Now then…” I continued to let Ellie hug me, but we both knew time was passing, and delay wouldn’t make the medicine taste any sweeter. With a regretful groan, Ellie pulled away, and Yukiko quickly combed her hair straight again.

“Fine. I… can do this.” Ellie clenched a fist, pumping herself up. “The sooner this is done, the sooner I can drown my sorrows.”

“Oh? Drinking, are you?” I asked, and she nodded.

“But not alone. Yukiko will come too.”

“Yes. I wanted not just to support Eleanor, but… to learn.” Yukiko added, as we stood, ready to head off to the deep cells, where the actual prisoners were. “After all, I’m not sure just what being Empress of Heaven will entail, but I know that I can’t just coast along in life, expecting to marry out of the Imperial Family. I have to be as resolute as Eleanor is.”

“Resolute?” Ellie chuckled bitterly. “Hardly. I feel sick and full of sorrow. But… there’s no turning back now. At least we aren’t alone.”

“Indeed you are not-not.” Shaeula agreed. We descended a sloping corridor which wound around like a snake, as we talked. “And our support, Akio’s support, shall be yours always. Besides…” Shaeula’s amber eyes were hard now. “…show no-no pity for those who betrayed you. Treachery and disloyalty are a greater-greater evil than open wickedness.”

“Oh, I know.” Ellie sighed. The guards here opened the security doors, which were thick, solid metal and looked as if they could survive a nuclear blast and then turned off a grid of invisible lasers (which I could see, of course) which would trigger a cocktail of knockout gases to flood the area if tripped. Yeah, they are taking security seriously…

“Even so, it hurts. I know it isn’t personal, but… I treated everyone as my friends, my comrades.” Ellie finished, as we approached the first cell. “Even so, I was betrayed, but… from the ashes we rise.”

“Do not-not say such to Akai, the little Phoenix will grow too prideful.” Shaeula chuckled. We were now standing by a solid door, and Ellie pressed her hand to the keypad, entering a code, before a beep sounded, and with the hissing of pneumonic gears, the door slowly opened.

“Ah… visiting the condemned, Princess?” A hoarse, almost disused, voice sounded, only for the tone to shift as we all entered. “Oh, I am popular.”

At her sneering tone, I frowned. The woman before us, Kathy Parnell, was lying on her bed, arms and legs chained by thick, solid manacles. The chains were long, allowing her access to a shower block and a toilet, but they couldn’t have been comfortable. Of course, it’s not like I have any sympathy for her. Yet…

From the information Ellie had given us, Kathy wasn’t even thirty, yet now if someone had told me she was in her forties I’d have believed them. Her brown hair was thinning, her cheeks haggard, and her body was shrunken and oddly lumpen, as if bones had been shattered then reset improperly. Ah, I get it. They’d taken Cassie out of the picture temporarily as she was too loyal, so it fell to standard surgery to save her life from her grievous injuries, only for Cassie to keep her alive later. But once the injuries are healed, those sorts of abilities don’t work any further. It’s the same as the President’s brain. It’s not an injury, so Healing it won’t do anything…

“Kathy…” Ellie managed, and the woman snorted sourly.

“Looks like you brought your fiancé…” she gazed at me, and my group, Yukiko, Shaeula and Kokuren behind us. “…I’m so grateful you give me access to the TV…” she nodded slowly at the far wall. “…but I’d be more satisfied if I had my lawyer! You can’t keep me in here, I didn’t commit any crimes!”

“Oh?” Ellie pursed her lips, seeming insulted “I recall you cutting off my arm, Kathy.”

“It’s grown back, hasn’t it?” Her eyes held bitterness. “To you it’s no different than if I snipped off your hair with scissors. It’s barely even assault! I…” she coughed, her breath wheezing, and I frowned. Turning my gaze to Ellie, she shrugged, through her blue eyes gave away her true intent.

Yes, you’re so very…  human… indeed, my dear Princess of Humans. And far, far too nice…

“Yet, you did-did… how do they put it here… ah, yes, aid and abet…” Shaeula pronounced the unfamiliar term loudly, her gaze as if she was looking at human excrement. “…those who would seek not-not just to harm Eleanor, but to defile her. As a female, I hold you in far-far greater contempt than even that wretch of a male, Donovan. He deserves neither arms, nor legs, nor-nor that worm he called a manhood.” Shaeula raised her hands, jade winds blowing in small cyclones. “Be most-most grateful I am not-not here to show you the same retribution.”

“Hah. Might as well.” Kathy spat, literally, though Shaeula’s winds deflected it, and a puff of yellow flame dispersed it. “I’m broken, thanks to Eleanor here. And all chained up… what sort of life is this? Even a criminal has rights, we’re a humane country, even to our prisoners, yeah?”

“That’s quite a leap.” Yukiko spoke up. She never relished confrontation, but I daresay she was imagining her own circumstances. Fortunately, Japan had me, had us, so she never fell into the same mess Ellie had. “Self-pity, I get it. You’ve suffered. But what about what you’ve done to Eleanor? Aren’t you sorry?”

“Sorry? Fuck.” She spat again, though this time on the floor. “I told you at the time, didn’t I?” She gazed at Ellie, unblinking, her eyes bloodshot. “I didn’t want him to do it. Alistair, Donovan, the pricks got what they deserved, if you ask me. I’m sure Alistair’s being roasted in Hell even now. But you should be the ones apologising! You fucked everything up! Not only Mary Stuart, but…” Now her glare was focussed on me. “…I saw the BBC News. The attack on Japan. So many dead…”

“They wouldn’t be dead if they weren’t invading terrorists, going after women, children, the innocent.” I stared back, unblinking, and as my Eyes glowed amber, intensifying my gaze, she blinked, looking down, tired and beaten. I see. It’s as I suspected, but I can work with this. Kathy isn’t very high-ranking in their plans, it seems…

“Oh, and that’ll matter.” Kathy scoffed, before another wheezing series of gasping coughs rocked her, lumpen chest moving up and down. I’d noticed her internal organs were badly scarred and only functioning at around forty percent efficiency. Honestly, without her boosted stats, she’d never have survived the surgery, to make it to Callie’s subsequent patchwork healing. I remember Callie saying she couldn’t cure diseases, like cancer, hence why I had to heal Jeremy Staveley’s wife myself. Yes, there are definitely limits, based on our Skills and our understanding…

“Sure, Donovan wasn’t with us. Fucking traitor, Max Power, he was playing us all for fools, and Donovan only listened to him. The kid was a loose cannon, a…” Speaking so much had opened her cracked lips, blood dripping onto her drab, grey tracksuit which served as a prison uniform. “…spoiled idiot who thought he was the hero. The Lord doesn’t let such as him take centre stage. Fool.” She coughed again, hacking gasps. “But we needed to scare you, to break you, Eleanor.” She then turned to Shaeula. “You think I don’t know it’s a sin? You think, as a woman, I took pleasure in it? Fuck off. It’s because I’m a woman I knew it’d work. Alistair… I’d have killed him one day, and maybe myself, when matters were in hand. I’m faithful, not wicked. I know the wages of sin are death.” Her words went from bitter recriminations to oddly earnest ones, as if she was asking us to believe her, though Shaeula was unmoved, arms crossed, an expression of contempt. “And survival takes martyrs, willing or unwilling.”

“I disagree. A path paved on the sacrifices of others is a path I’ll never walk. I’d rip it up first…” I countered, and she scoffed at me.

“You arrogant idiot. Your actions have doomed many. I’ve not read the full Book, but True Revelation is clear. There’s not enough. When the shroud that hides this world is torn to shreds, the death toll will be enormous. We need what’s in the Tower, to ensure we can protect as many of the faithful as possible. The Ninth Heaven… ack… hah…” she panted, fatigued from speaking more than she had in months. “…is the shield and the sword. And you’ve robbed us of that, just to prevent sacrifices.”

“And I’d do it again.” I insisted coldly, and Shaeula spoke for me, her tone contemptuous.

“Wretched coward. You are most-most pitiful, yet I do not-not pity you. You cry out with your weakness and call it strength. Akio will not-not need such pathetic, hateful measures. If your Throne can not-not do it, we shall! Now then… we have heard quite-quite enough, I believe.”

“Yes.” Ellie nodded. “I can never forgive you, Kathy, but… at least you had deeper reasons than Donovan, or Alistair.”

“You’ll get nothing from me.” she warned, squeezing shut her eyes. “We all pledge the false power to the Angels, and when I die, or you try and tamper, they’ll take it…  ba…aaaaaaaah!”

Her words were cut off by her howls as I began Chirurgery, as well as Healing, but to Heal her… I have to break her again first. It’s not going to be perfect, but…

Rhiannon’s Swift Judgement a Divine Favour crafted from concentrated Adherence, refined Ether and Soullight infused Truesoul strands. It allows…

Linked Angel – This Divine Favour is one part of a greater, linked whole and allows access…

As suspected, she had a Linked Angel Favour, but this was the weakest one I’d seen yet, even if the functions seemed similar. It had encroached upon the glittering strands of energy which made up Rhiannon’s Swift Judgement, almost like horses’ tails wrapped around her ankles and wrists, so if I was going to remove it, I had to handle that swiftly. Fortunately, I had adherence to burn, and it soon lifted free.

“I’ll stop her biting her tongue.” Kokuren acted, forcing cloth in-between her jaws, using her tie. As Kathy thrashed in her chains, body breaking down under my aetheric assault, only to regenerate as said aether was converted to Ether Healing, I investigated the Linked Angel.

It’s hellishly complicated, and mostly adherence. But my Path feels disgust, yet a faint familiarity. Let me see… I had no confidence in extracting it, but I could certainly run a few more tests.

As Rhiannon’s Favour popped free, I let a little of my soullight repair the damage the Linked Angel had caused being attached to it like a parasite and added it to the collection. The adherence drain spiked again, but I could still support it, and would have to, as we still had more to gain. Bones cracked, tendons tore, and flesh ripped, blood spraying, but just as quickly, wounds Healed, and soon the sweat-soaked Kathy was moaning fitfully, nearly unconscious.

So, did anyone have any insights? I asked, as the Linked Angel shattered, energy somehow sucked away into a greater whole.

It does rather remind me of Duke Myrcolaxriath… Shaeula mused, and Hyacinth nodded.

Indeed, mistress Shaeula. It gives me an unpleasant feeling, seeing it. It… no, I have no wish to colour your perceptions…

It is unpleasant, certainly… Asha added, and Eri and my sis echoed those thoughts.

Yeah. Like the Duke, you say. Hmm… then is it… alive? It doesn’t have to be able to think or reason… huh… I’m not sure, but…

I saved the memories of the disintegrating Favour, and all the operations I did on it swiftly and what they’d done to it, in an instance of Split Thoughts, so that Rose, Lin and the others could examine it later. I wasn’t sure if it would help them, but it couldn’t hurt.

That done, I jolted Kathy back to consciousness, none too tenderly, and she let out a yelp, then glanced down, stunned by her own voice.

“You should thank Ellie.” My words snapped her out of her confusion, and she gazed between us, puzzled.

“She didn’t want you to suffer from your wounds for the rest of your life. I can’t say I’ve done a flawless job, but with the higher Statistics you have from your prior efforts, even with the lingering internal injuries you should be able to live a normal life. Though whether you can escape prison…”

“It’s true that she cut off my arm, but it’s also true that I’m unharmed now. It would count as Grievous Bodily Harm, legally, certainly, but… mitigated by the fact I have no lasting injuries or distress. Other than mental…” Ellie pursed her lips. “Your betrayal still stings, Kathy. Everyone’s does. As for aiding in Alistair’s attempted… indecency…” She didn’t want to speak the words, and I understood. If the bastard was still alive, him and the other fucker, they’d be lucky to end up like Donovan, for trying to rape Ellie, and leaving her with the traumatic mental wounds of her self-defence, which led to her killing them.

“…we’ve spoken of that. The betrayal itself… it’s hard to prove treason. Sadly, we can’t legislate retrospectively, or else we are not a democracy but a tyranny. So a few years in prison at worst, then you’ll be free, Kathy. You might even be able to sway a jury with your tears…”

“David will testify to see her go down.” I chuckled, knowing he hated all the betrayers, even while his heart ached. “But yes, justice is hard, in these matters. But… your Favour is gone, and you’re no longer Linked, so…”

“Yes. We don’t need to chain you anymore, Kathy. We’ll send someone to undo the chains in a few minutes. We have… your fellow conspirators to visit.”

As Ellie turned away, Kathy opened her mouth to speak, shut it again, and then, finally decided to say what was on her mind. “You’re a fool, Eleanor. Too soft-hearted. You’ll get yourself and those you love killed, and ruin the world…”

“No, she won’t.” I disagreed for her, as Ellie strode out without looking back, Kokuren, Yukiko and Shaeula following her. “Ellie needs to stay the way she is now. I’ll carry that weight, if she helps steady me. Besides, if the world is built on a mountain of bones, it deserves to perish. Wait and watch, Kathy Parnell, wait and watch, and see just how wrong you are. You could have been doing good, instead of following a misguided sense of righteousness.” With that, I stepped out, and Ellie reset the door, locking it again, and with my expanded vision, before the door clanked closed, I saw a look of terrible regret and bitterness on Kathy’s face.

“Right then.” Ellie tried to keep upbeat, an effort we all knew was false, but none of us broke the illusion, instead, we supported her silently. “That was… rather awful. The last three, they’ve all been involved in the planning and treachery enough to lose their Favours. Not legally, perhaps, we didn’t think it could be done and never thought to pass laws about this kind of thing, but… well, two of them agreed in exchange for leniency, the third for money and a pardon. It seemed… expedient.”

She paused for a moment, squeezing shut her eyes. “David, of course, was furious. He was shouting he was going to get you to work your magic on them, Shaeula, turning them into… how did he put it… oh yes, a ‘fucknugget sculpture quartet’.” She let out a dry snort. “Honestly, Akio, are you sure you want to let David coach Motoko and the others? He’s quite the character…”

“It’s fine, he’s a man after my own heart. But if we’re going to win, then I have to swallow my own anger, and do what helps us most. So yeah, taking their Favours is for the best.”

“Indeed. Britain already has barely half the Chosen you do in Japan, and… we’ve made a lot of mistakes. Disunity, treachery, those killed before we ever knew of them…” she was depressed, and as Shaeula and Yukiko consoled her, I kissed her forehead softly, willing her to feel my care and love.

“Don’t worry. We’ve got the Ring Gate, haven’t we? And the Goring is only half a mile away from the Palace. You can visit by taking a gentle stroll, and we can come to you any time. It’s not about how many, but how strong. Aren’t I worth ten of Kathy?”

“A thousand.” Shaeula snorted, and Yukiko nodded.

“So then… let’s get this done. Then you and Yukiko can just have fun. Shaeula too…”

“That sounds quite-quite wonderful. I enjoyed London greatly last time I was here…” Shaeula agreed. As we walked off towards the next cells, I smiled at Kokuren, whose lips curved up into a smile. Yes, I suppose you and your sister might as well enjoy the rest of the day off after this too…

***

“I won’t apologise.” the grumpy looking, yet powerfully muscled man in his early thirties, Marcus, grumbled, as he lay back, exhausted, his Favour in my hands. His Linked Angel had been shattered, the fourth of the day, and while I still wasn’t capable of interrupting or halting its self-destruction, or interfering with it, I had learned some valuable insights regarding it. I was sure now it was a giant Connection, yet not the kind I made. Being like Duke Myrcolaxriath isn’t entirely wrong. But the lesser Angel and Archangel versions might well be like the ordinary Myconids, mere puppet bodies. I’d need to investigate some stronger variants…

Shaeula and Hyacinth had offered insights of their own, and I’d stored the memories. So my work here was done.

Right, we’ve also retrieved Oghma’s Mighty Grip, Victoria’s Triumphant March, and now from this pleasant fellow, we’ve got Seaxnēat’s Blood And Iron, which is utterly wasted on him. I certainly don’t agree with many choices the Gods made, even if I understand them better thanks to talking to Rose and Lin.

“No, seems you never do.” I agreed, and his frown deepened. “But you’re fortunate you were apprehended before you could do anything irreversibly foolish. Luckily Cassie was unharmed during your schemes too…”

“I won’t waste my breath.” Marcus shook his head. “I am a man of unflinching conviction.”

“Hardly.” Shaeula scoffed in his face. “You are as untrustworthy as a fox, and I do not-not care for you.” She flapped her hand dismissively at him, and he crossed his bulky arms.

“I took the power, but I was always true to myself.” He ignored her. “Now then, when can I get out?”

“Tomorrow. Once everything is settled.” Ellie sighed, nodding as Kokuren worked on her tablet, making notes. “Of course, if you have any contact with the Church of True Revelation, that would be a breach of the agreement…”

“I understand. I’m not an idiot…”

“Which sadly, I find are the most-most popular words spoken by fools…” Shaeula wasn’t letting this go. The other two she’d despised, of course, but they had the grace to be ashamed, unlike Marcus here.

“We’re done then?” Marcus ignored her.

“Yes, we are.” Ellie agreed.

“In that case, get out. I’d like to sleep. That was most unpleasant.” He scowled at me, and I merely shook my head. Upon leaving, and once the door had shut, Ellie slumped against it.

“That’s done then. Thank you. Everyone. I wouldn’t have been able to face them alone.”

“Nor do you have to.” I assured Ellie, giving her a hug until her trembling stopped. “Now then, these three were even lower on the totem-pole than Kathy, but they still were involved in conspiring against you and arranging matters to hamper your allies or advance the Church’s agenda. So don’t feel bad. If anything, your forgiveness is more generous than mine would be.”

“Liar.” Ellie took a deep breath then forced a tremulous smile. “Miss Ling proves that you are the same as me. Perhaps it’s why we are so well-matched.” She then gazed into my eyes. “Actually… there are two more. Not villains or traitors, but… just good Chosen who lost faith, and want out. For a price, of course. I haven’t called them here today, as I know you are carrying too many, but…”

“Sure, once these burdens are gone, we can talk.” I promised. “And I know your fears. I’ll try and find British homes for most of them.”

“There’s no need.” Ellie shook her head. “If any fit, of course, by all means, but… you gave your word. Britain does not stand alone. So your people are my people too. Besides…” Her smile had regained some life and was oddly teasing for her. “…I know you wouldn’t wish me to be forced to kill myself, would you?”

“I don’t even like that as a joke.” I tightened my hug. “We had a different relationship then. But I’ll never betray your trust.”

“I know. I know. Now then, shall we go and retrieve our ninja?” Ellie asked impishly, and I nodded.

“Yeah, we should.” I agreed, and we made quiet conversation was we headed back to Kathy’s cell. The door was opened, and two burly guards went in to remove her manacles, while invisible Byakuren slipped out, and when safely blocked from view, she reappeared, dismissing her light.

“How was it? Did she notice you?” Ellie asked, and Byakuren tossed her head, feigning displeasure.

“Hardly. I’m a Chūnin. By our rank, we can breathe silently and move nigh-inaudibly. Though I wasn’t able to use my tablet, the hum is a giveaway in the quiet. But I don’t need to record.” She then rattled off everything Kathy had muttered to herself, even her voice sounding like her, the long solitude having affected Kathy’s habits, making her prone to talking just to hear the sound of her own voice. Byakuren and Kokuren had suggested this opportunity, since the British weren’t using recording devices in the cell, just a simple camera to watch Kathy’s health and behaviour.

“See, how could I be a Chūnin and not be able to flawlessly remember a long mission request, or perfectly capture intelligence? We can’t always photograph or steal the data.” Byakuren declared proudly. Most of what Kathy had said was self-pitying bitterness or remorse, but there were a few interesting pieces of information, which we’d surely follow up on. But before that…

“Oh, that’s right. You have another appointment, Akio.” Ellie snapped out of her melancholy after hearing Kathy’s words which she thought would be heard only by herself, so surely were honest. “Thank you for today. I mean it.”

“It’s fine. I was happy to do it.” I promised, and with that, my thoughts turned to what was next.  Dorte Andreassen, huh? I don’t exactly know what to expect, as Constantine and his sister have been rather evasive, but… I admit to being curious as to what my fellow Chosen of Tyr, and the woman Lin thought had better odds than me, is like…