Seven Hundred And Seventeen

Deciding to pay attention to the twins first, as my sis had a very conflicted expression on her face, I walked over. As they say me coming, Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan exchanged a meaningful glance, not hiding what was in their hands. Is that…

In Chiaki-chan’s hand was what looked like a small golden ring, almost child-size, but it would probably fit her slender finger. I wasn’t sure just why that had her so excited, until my Eyes shone.

Aífe’s Golden Ring Of Pledge And Spite [Item Class: Imperious] [Item Type: Principle]

This golden ring is of modest craftsmanship, yet its purpose was not merely to be worn as jewellery, but to signify the lineage of the bearer. Given to Aife by the legendary hero Cú Chulainn when he left her, pregnant with his child, as per their agreement when he defeated her in battle after a wicked trick her sister played a part in, the ring was to be passed down to his son to identify him when he turned seven and came searching for him.

This was done, but alas, in poetic tragedy, just as the son was conceived via trickery, due to similar mischance, Cú Chulainn never recognised the ring until after he had slain his only son, for a Geas was sunk into the metal, the Fae that supported Aife bitter at her defeat by mortal wiles. None who wear this ring can willingly identify themselves to another, and will become an unknown, indistinct and threatening shadow, provoking enmity and fear, and this Geas can only be broken if the bearer is recognised as themselves despite this.

I see… Chiaki-chan slid the tiny ring onto her finger, the fit very snug, and my Eyes deactivated themselves, and for a moment, I wondered who I was looking at, a looming, shadowy figure suddenly there, only for the shadows to just as quickly vanish, and Chiaki-chan was there again. David snorted, lowering his guard suddenly, calling to the Knights to calm down.

“How did you know what to do?” I asked, as the rest of the information on the ring scrolled into my vision.

Though the ring carries fell Geas, it also, in stealing the identity of the wearer, has absorbed the talents of the two who bore it, fierce Aife, and her prodigious son with Cú Chulainn, who was slain at his hand, Connla. This knowledge can be imparted to the bearer of the ring, and, just as it steals identities, it will also absorb the knowledge of any new bearer.

“I am almost hesitant to say…” Chiaki-chan seemed embarrassed, but her twin, Chiasa-chan smiled at her, urging her to keep speaking. It was unusual for her not to finish her sister’s sentence, but I felt it a good thing, especially now. This is a moment they have to stand alone, as they each found a separate treasure. They may be incredibly close, but they are two girls, not a single woman.

“…but just as we have been learning from Ortlinde-sama and Rossweisse-sama within Wisdom World… oh, and now the other Valkyrie-samas too…” It was amusing, such beings being addressed with Japanese honorifics, but I’d certainly given up trying to make the twins talk less formally to those they respected. Even Ren-kun had one hell of a time with that. It makes them happy, so who am I to complain?

“…we are also learning from you. And… you are terribly mentally unguarded to us…”

“That he is.” Haru agreed, still idly toying with her gladius. “If Akio trusts someone, he has no walls. It’s both reassuring and terrifying, isn’t it?”

Both twins nodded, and Chiaki-chan continued. “So, with Rossweisse-sama’s help, we could trigger your Eyes, your mind automatically segregating the information into a Split Thought for us, thus… effectively, we had the ability to observe what you were, with your unconscious aid. So Chiasa and I, we saw these…”

“The ring is perfect for us. I could never mistake my own sister.” Chiasa-chan agreed. “And… the knowledge within is priceless to us as well. It is similar to the treasures Motoko-sama and Natsumi-sama retrieved, yet… here, we can access such talent, and help others train in it. And indeed, our own lessons shall be held inside the ring.”

“So then…” Chiaki-chan flourished her hand. “…we shall…”

“Use this to help everyone reach…” Chiasa-chan continued.

“…their peak! And help you, Akio-sama!” Chiaki-chan again took over, then for Chiasa-chan to finish.

“After all, our goal in life now is to be your First Demagogue!”

“That’s… quite the goal. And a heavy responsibility.” I wasn’t fully sure of what that entailed, only… the First positions on a Path were both incredibly rewarding, but equally as incredible a burden and a responsibility. It didn’t sit well with me placing such on the shoulders of two young girls, but…

“We will not be young forever, Akio-sama…” “…why, we grow a little older, day by day.” “We would say one day at a time, but…” “…we can actually age by more than a day each day, just as now!” The twins made a joke, astonishing me, and I realised, just like everyone else, they were changing too.

“All right then. But you’ll have to work hard… oh, what am I saying. You always do. Everyone’s so grateful to you both.”

“And that makes us feel fulfilled…” “…and eager to do better.” they agreed. “And speaking of…” They were suddenly rather shy. “…soon, Akio-sama, we will be ready.” “For darkness element. We are not entirely sure, yet…” “…we feel something will occur, so…” “…would you watch over us?” “We would feel most proud and also assured if you would.”

“Of course. You don’t even need to ask. I’m curious too.” I wonder. When I mastered all seven of the Primary Elements, I became a Faeduine, but I’m not sure if they meet the criteria for that. They might, though. Who can say? If not… I was High Human, at first, if I remember, before it shifted to Faeduine…

Changing the subject, I smiled as Chiasa-chan. “So, your treasure… it’s…”

“This!” she flourished her item. It was a brooch of bronze and ruby, wrought into the shape of a crossed sword and spear, and seemed to be the sort of object that would fasten the bodice of an old-fashioned gown. “It is a… sister object…” The twins tittered at that, another joke, both of them in extremely high spirits. “…to the ring.”

Scáthach’s Bronze Brooch of  Apology And Guilt [Item Class: Imperious] [Item Type: Principle]

This bronze brooch is of excellent craftsmanship, a token of both affection and apology. Given to Scáthach by the legendary hero Cú Chulainn, who she had trained in arts of spear, sword, bow and cunning, as both token of gratitude and apology, the brooch was to be forever be a reminder of the bond they shared as both master and pupil, as well as the betrayal Cú Chulainn perpetrated, when he had an affair with Uathach, her daughter, and accidentally broke her fingers, before slaying her lover in a duel as he was enraged.

This brooch contains the Adherence of Cú Chulainn and Scáthach, and will fortify the ability of anyone wielding it who tries to teach others, though martial prowess gains a further, significant boost. It also has been blessed by the Fae who flocked to Scáthach, though this blessing has been twisted due to their resentment at her role in the treachery which defeated her sister Aife, all to protect Cú Chulainn.

“Huh…” I paused for a moment, feeling a slight incongruity, before shrugging. “…so it’s another teaching aide?” I asked. “Although…” Glancing at Chiasa-chan’s skinny arms, I smiled ruefully. “I’m not sure you’ll be teaching martial arts any time soon.”

“That is quite rude, Akio-sama!” Chiasa-chan pouted.

“Yes, strength is not just from muscles now. And we have been working tirelessly!” Chiaki-chan agreed.

“Yes, as hard as any!” “Ask anyone!” “We can swing a sword or a spear now!” “Or pull back the bowstring on a longbow.” “And more…!” As they both surrounded me, circling around me and chanting at me in unison, I couldn’t help but smile at their childish but charming behaviour.

“All right, that was rather rude of me. And it’s true. When it comes to teaching others, you two stand at the top. Shaeula and Arisu-san are the other places on the podium. So… I’ve heard of Cú Chulainn and Scáthach, of course, but not Aife. Sisters, huh?” That made sense, that the twins would find treasures tied together in such a manner. “Just a shame we didn’t find Gáe Bolg here…”

At that, my sis, who had squeezed the object she’d found in her palm, which meant it wasn’t a weapon, but likely something similar to what the twins had obtained, frowned, her mental thought a little acidic. Of course you know him. Lancer, yeah? From that visual novel…

At least say Persona, sis… huh, wait a second…

Turning my attention back to Chiasa-san, I pointed out what had subconsciously bugged me. “Hey, that brooch doesn’t have a Geas. It sounds like it should have one, especially with the Fae meddling…”

“Have no fear, Akio-sama. This item is perfectly safe.” Chiasa-chan insisted. “Even were it to have a Geas, it would be of the same sort as Chiaki’s treasure. Between us, we would overcome it and it would be meaningless.” At her unusually long sentence, Chiaki-chan nodded.

“Yes, please do not be concerned, these items are meant for us. Yet…” She was smiling now. “…I do believe we shall not quarrel and scheme against each other as these foolish sisters from history did.”

“Quite so, Chiaki.” Chiasa-chan agreed. “These treasures, as long as we sisters remain united, cannot harm us. Indeed…”

“Yes, Chiasa. They can only benefit us. And through us, all of those who shall follow Akio-sama’s Path. For indeed…”

They then finished together. “…it is Bonds and Connections that will help us all inspire Growth!”

They are very inspirational. Rose agreed cheerfully. The other Valkyrie sisters were largely silent, as they were researching, but Rose and Lin were always watching. So weak and fragile, but with limitless potential. Much like many on your world. The more I see, the more I agree with Divine Taṇhā, even if it’s selfish, and makes my chest ache.

Do not be like that, Rose. Lin’s own thoughts were slightly self-mocking. It is our Verr’s decision. We Brúðr, guide, support, cherish… love… I knew her face was as red as her crimson hair now. …but we do not compel. It is Akio’s decision. And I believe in him. Whether it is possible or not… one more miracle pays for all.

That’s why you’re Rank eleven then… Rose conceded. …I can’t quite push down the fear Akio is throwing his life away, trying this. But… I can hardly wait to see the look on the face of Proud Sigrún and the other elder sisters when we unveil him. Even if we’ll still face censure…

The Norns promised to speak up for you… I reminded them. …and I’m hardly likely to allow anyone, not even the Gods, to bully my dear Brúðr, am I? Anyway…

That conversation took but a moment, and then I patted the twins’ heads, smiling warmly at them. “You totally get the Path I want to walk. Just… treasure yourselves too, not just what you can do, okay? Don’t be taking risks. After all, yes, you broke the Geas safely, Chiaki-chan… but…” I bent down to meet her eyes. “…it’s not just Chiasa-chan who’d be heartbroken to forget you, to see you as a figure of fear. Ren-kun, Hikawa-san, the rest of your family, your friends here… just… be careful, okay?”

There was a lot of laughter behind me, and the twins exchanged a rueful glance, before their brown eyes twinkled with amusement. “You should not be such…” “…a hypocrite, Akio-sama.” “Yes, if we ask Eri-sama, or Aiko-sama…” “…or indeed anyone, they would be angry at that!”

“Maybe so, but it’s my privilege to be so.” I declared piously, before bursting out into a chuckle. “Anyway, don’t forget to thank the Queen and Ellie for this opportunity. They didn’t have to allow it.”

“Oh, think nothing if it.” Liz waved her hand holding the Sceptre playfully. We’d been speaking Japanese, but there were plenty here who could interpret, and she had one of the translation devices now anyway. “At this point, best the treasures be used than rot in here. Your twins may not be British, but we’re all one alliance now.” She then glanced at Michiru. “…though I suppose some treasures are best left to gather dust, Akio.”

“True.” I chuckled ruefully. “I certainly think the thing that wounded Henry should have been consigned to a dark, deep dungeon somewhere.” As he nodded, scratching his cheek in remembered pain, I then turned to my sis. No point putting it off any longer. You okay, sis? If you want to keep it secret, I can.

I… no. It’s… well, I almost matched up with a bow, you know? But then, I thought of my precious partner, which Shaeula’s brother gave me, and I realised I’d not be able to give my all to it, and the feeling vanished. There was a leather breastplate too, but… you’ll be making me something better anyway, and what I have now isn’t inferior… so… it’s just… no, fine. It’s fine.

You sound like you’re convincing yourself of that, sis.

It’s just… damn it, see for yourself. My sis sighed loudly as all our eyes went to her. She was the last… no, that’s not quite right, Tan’s still searching. …so everyone was curious.

My sis then opened her clenched fist to reveal a delicate handkerchief, which was an odd item to have hoarded in the Tower. But then I suppose Michiru’s treasure, and Suzu’s Corn Dollie are stranger still. Maybe I shouldn’t judge.

It was embroidered with a twin-headed bird, I wasn’t sure what, each head looking in opposite directions, and it was slender and almost reptilian too. Is it a cockatrice maybe? It looks a bit like the Imperial Eagle on a lot of Adam White’s miniatures. Not sure he’d appreciate the similarity. Over one side of the cloth was a faint, dark stain, reddish-black, and giving off a faint tang of iron. That aside, I could see why my sis was annoyed. Girly indeed. And also not practical for her, and… it’s even bloody and used…

Queen Morgause’s Handkerchief Of Sorrowful Remorse And Pledge Of Denial [Item Class: Imperious] [Item Type: Law]

This was the favoured handkerchief of Queen Morgause, Queen of Orkney, Sister of King Arthur Pendragon. Embroidered with a two-headed sea eagle, symbolising the past lineage of the island, and the uncertain future, and dyed with priceless, near-unique dye made from imported saffron mixed with powdered gold, this was a treasure any woman, any Queen, would envy, and showed the love of both her husband, King Lot, who gave her this, and her brother, who provided the before unknown saffron from trade with far-off lands.

Due to trials and tribulations, and the meddling of her sister, the Sorceress, Morgana Le Fay, great suffering befell Morgause and her family, and this handkerchief is stained with the blood of her brother, and carries her tears and fervent wishes of grief and regret. However, her pleas did not go unanswered, as in response to the interference of Morgana Le Fay, who used Faerie arts of Oath, Weal and Woe, and more, to sow discord and advance her own schemes, the peerless Enchantress Lady Nimuë did make Oath, the blood and tears soaking this handkerchief bound to her will.

The bearer of this handkerchief will be bestowed with great Fortune and Fate when protecting her husband and her brother, and will find it easy to resist mental effects which dismay and confound. Resistance to Elemental energies in these circumstances significantly increases, and as long as the bearer’s faithfulness holds, her injuries shall not bleed until the battle is won. However, just as Weal comes with corresponding Woe…

My sis flinched, and I paused for a second, but she met my stare, so I allowed my Eyes to continue, and…

…so too is such a wish, bound with Adherence, and even Soullight, though Morgause knew not what that was, nor that her very Truesoul had been wounded, as had her brother’s, the once-King of these Lands where the Endless Knot and their myths remain, fraught with conditions. This Geas…

…

… … …

… … … … …

???? ????? ????? ????? ????? … ???? ?????!

Huh? I blinked, but the final information remained stubbornly veiled. It had been a while since I’d seen so many question marks, and indeed, the item was powerful, one of the best treasures the Tower had disgorged, certainly, yet it didn’t seem potent enough to have hidden information when my Eyes were at this Rank. I turned, glancing at Tan, figuring I could get a buff, but then…

Ah. “I suppose I could ask Lady Nimuë, since we’re meeting her in a few days…”

“Yes, I suppose you could, bro.” my sis agreed, glancing down at the handkerchief. “Uh, bro… I don’t suppose…”

I nodded. “I think I can. Can I borrow it?” She passed me the handkerchief, and I quickly wrapped it in a layer of almost transparent strands woven from some of the materials I’d received in my care package from the Valkyries. Tapping it with one finger, I nodded, satisfied.

“It’s still soft, but now you’re not directly touching the dirty surface, and you can use it as intended.”

“Thanks bro.” You can ask, ifyou want. It’s honestly nothing bad, or at least I don’t think so, it’s not like I have your Eyes, is it? She glanced away, her gaze pensive.

Oh. Yes, I suppose you don’t. But I know that people get a feel for these treasures, even without knowing why. Probably due to the Geas. It’s both Weal and Woe, I suppose. Huh. Many involve Oaths and Boons, as well. It seems that the Fae are clearly descended from or involved with the Endless Knot.

Of course we are! Shaeula added proudly. Am I not a Dannan? Did not Mortal Fragarach fit well in my hand, and answer to me?

True. I had to admit. And the mythology of such involves a lot of tales of mischievous, tricksy Faeries, just as are involved with these treasures.

Say playful! Shaeula insisted. It sounds far nicer! And we… or rather, Asha, Hyacinth and I, are indeed very… playful… with you.

Sorry! My sis broke in. I know last night was a missed opportunity for you…

I did enjoy it regardless. Shaeula promised. While I always crave lovemaking, computer games are fun too. And variety shall keep the long years fresh, no?

Guess so. my sis agreed, to a mental snort from Eri.

“Anyway, maybe I’ll just check with Lady Nimuë there are no hidden dangers. If not, then it’s good to go. Though I’m constantly amazed about how much of mythology is true… King Arthur and his Knights…” I couldn’t help but glance at my own Knights, David included. They’d all found treasures, which was a relief to them, as they were all laughing and joking, and I expected not finding a suitable item would be a huge blow to their prestige and standing as a Knight.

“You know, it’s almost comical, how nobody believes in him.” Liz was pouting. “It’s a matter of historical record that he existed. Of course, all the mythology and magic seemed absurd. To those who didn’t know better. But if you look at the timings…”

I nodded. “Yeah, late fifth and early sixth century. The same time as a lot of strange coincidences, just before the collapse of aether, and the formation of the Boundary. So magical swords, Faeries and the like are all extremely plausible. Of course, just ignoring all the evidence we have here anyway.”

“Indeed. We knew, of course.” Liz nodded. “But there was hardly much benefit in pushing such stories. After all, our Royal Family isn’t directly descended from that line, not like the Japanese with their unbroken descent.” She nodded at Yukiko. “If you think about it, their magical peak should be above ours, in terms of craft and spells, so I think we are doing rather well.” She winked at me now. “That’s why we hoarded as much as we could, not just us, but all the Royals since the magic left these Isles.”

“Not left, precisely.” Tan shook her head, and she seemed frustrated. “There were clearly small pockets left behind, just as in Japan. The Boundary is like a cloth, fine, but occasionally minor knots and fraying within the fabric allows aether to pool. Though wisely, it seems they kept hidden.”

“I would dearly love to find any remnants.” Liz agreed, and Ellie winced, as Sarah had confessed to having rooted out such enclaves with Mary Stuart, and not in a kindly manner. “But alas…” Liz continued. “…matters never work out as we wish them to. A lesson you’d best learn, Akio.”

“Oh, I know that already. That’s why… contingency planning and rigorous preparation and training matter! Today will be an example of how we do that.” I promised, only for mom, who’d been silent for a while, to speak up.

“Ai, dear… are you sure you should have that?” She nodded to the handkerchief, which my sis was idly playing with, now that she wasn’t touching dried blood and who knows what else directly.

“Mom, it’s fine. It’s totally safe, no more dangerous than Eleanor’s armour, see?” She waved it, and mom frowned.

“That’s… not exactly the point I’m making.” Mom was struggling for words. “It’s just… you’re a bit scatterbrained, Ai, and… that’s a cultural relic, isn’t it? A priceless piece of history. I’d worry you’ll lose it, or worse…”

“Wow.” My sis puffed out her cheeks, discontented. “I’m a little hurt. Mom, why is it you only pick on me? Eri’s got one too…”

“Yes, but that axe… it isn’t so… look, that belongs to King Arthur’s sister! That’s his blood! It belongs in a museum!” mom was saying, and I realised she wasn’t picking on Aiko, but was just flustered by exposure to the situation here. Though that’s a good thing. And the aim. Yes, they were involved with Yukiko’s family and arranging our engagement announcement, and mom very much dotes on Tsurugi, and to a lesser extent Yata and Magatama… it’s hard to mother Magatama, when she seems so ripe herself, though Yata isn’t so difficult…

“It’s no use there.” I pointed out. “Relax, mom… Aiko won’t be careless with it, no more than she has with her bow. Either of her bows. Besides…” I patted Tsurugi’s hilt. “…I’m carrying a greater treasure here. And if I’m honest…”

“Yes.” Ellie broke in dryly. “Other than Daiyu, whose water was consumable, and I suppose Asha, who took from what lies below rather than a treasure, there’s only one person here who has broken or lost their treasure…”

I suppose I’m equally as guilty. But then, you said it well, Akio. Rose shrugged, remembering her aid with this very issue. A gift that can’t be abandoned isn’t a gift, but a trap.

“Yes, I’m very sorry, but I don’t regret it. If I hadn’t acted, which unfortunately ended up destroying the Boots, but gave me their power, then Mayumi and Ohta-san, to say nothing of uncle Kira, might have suffered more than just bruising and a traumatic experience. But yes… mom, I’m the one who lost a treasure. Just… have a little faith in Aiko. See for yourself how much she’s matured, okay? The same goes for Eri…”

“Oh, we know how little Eri has grown.” auntie Hana agreed. “And we’re no longer able to hold her back, or you, little Aki. No, all we can do is support you both, and be here to remind you that you promised Eri would never cry. That’s the one thing we can hold you to.” Beside her, father watched on, quietly contemplating.

“Yeah, mom. Don’t sweat it. Just… trust me, okay? I know… you don’t want to, and you find it hard, but…” I had a feeling my sister wasn’t talking about the handkerchief anymore. “…but I’m prepared to make my own choices, and live with the consequences.”

She tucked it into her pocket, her blue eyes shining resolutely, hard like gleaming sapphires. “Anyway, it’s good. I don’t have a husband, but… I do have a brother.” She smiled at me warmly then, her impish humour, at least outwardly, back to normal. “So I’ll put it to use. Queen Morgause’s guilt won’t haunt me. Living with regrets… it’s shitty, mom. Ask Eri. She was dying inside, missing bro. So when he came back with Shaeula, even though she was terrified of rejection, as that would have put an end to her hopes once and for all, crushing her…”

She paused, considering her words carefully. “Mom, knowing is awful. If you just dare to dream, you can always hope for a future you want. Anyway, Eri dared, and she won. And nobody can say she’s not the happiest she’s ever been.”

Hana and Junpei grudgingly agreed, and my sis finished her speech. “Anyway, mom. I’m grateful to Eleanor and the Queen, because I don’t want to have to cry over bro’s bloody corpse, okay? And one day, if I get married, I wouldn’t want to weep over that, either. So I’ll use it with gratitude. Just like everyone here, right?”

The twins nodded firmly, hand in hand again. Yukiko, Tsukiko, Haru, the knights and everyone else, raised a cheer, and the only silent one here was Tan. I glanced over at her, as she was standing, arms folded imperiously, long hair ablaze, crimson eyes irked.

“No luck, oh Goddess?” Liz asked playfully, and Tan tossed her head, flames scattering and winking out like falling stars.

“It seems… nothing here is my equal. Not unexpected. I am Taṇhā, She Who Thirsted, But Has Now Found Cool Water.” The way she intoned that, we could hear the capital letters, as if it was a title. “Though I confess to being rather disappointed. It irks me not to receive a gift, when those around me have.”

“It’s fine.” Yu-mi consoled her. “That might even be better.” She gestured at me behind her back with one hand, and I understand.

“That’s right. I’ll make you something to soften the blow, okay, Tan?”

“That would be welcome.” Tan agreed. “Now then, are we done? I am… suddenly feeling a need to work out some frustration.”

As my sis snorted a laugh, and she wasn’t alone at that, I nodded, and once we’d checked everyone else had definitely secured their treasures, Liz spoke up.

“All right then, everyone. Who fancies a trip to the seaside? While it is off season, we feel…” She was back to her Royal manner of speech now, since it was no longer a… family, I supposed… discussion. “…though it may be dreary, windy and cold, we still get a hankering for ice cream on the beach, then a slap-up fish and chips supper and a few glasses of brandy for a nightcap. So, we implore you all, do your best for Britain, for my granddaughter, her fiancé and our alliance! Britain expects every man, and every woman, to do their duty!” She winked. “We shall fight them on the beaches! On the streets and the alleys, on the hills and the fields. And we shall win, for we are together!” She paused, satisfied. “We always wanted to deliver a rousing Churchill speech! How was it?”

As Ellie laughed helplessly, Henry nodded. “Not bad, granny, not bad!” He then gave her a thumbs-up, and as everyone joined in the laughter, the remaining tension people felt gave way to a nervous anticipation. Seeing that, I addressed mom and father.

“It’ll be fine.  But also it’s something you all need to see. Okay? So… when all this is done, we can talk. Over fish and chips, and brandy, I guess?”

At that, my father let out a gentle sigh. “I suppose so, Akio. I suppose so. Come now, Emily, we must not cause additional trouble. After all, here, Aiko is old enough to vote, fight in wars, and much more. Besides… here she is fighting in a war. I hardly approve of women fighting, but…”

“Yes, if you say that…” David added nastily. “…you shit all over fangirl and miss samurai’s entire existence. Your daughter too. Archery’s a sport, sure, but… it’s derived from, and made for, battle.”

“I…” mom met my gaze, and I nodded reassuringly, before, face red, eyes glimmering with tears, likely from stress, I imagined, she puffed out her cheeks, resembling Aiko greatly in the moment. “…fine! I’m just going to go and watch all my daughters-in-law show off. But Aki, you’d best not let anyone get hurt, okay? A real man protects women!”

“Sorry, no can do. Getting hurt is a part of life. But I can promise nobody will die, or suffer any lasting harm that can’t be washed away. I’m watching everyone.”

With that, all that I needed to say was said, and we left the tower, joining up with Eri and the others, who had prepared a number of buses for us. We’d also been joined, fresh through the Ring Gate at the Goring, by most of Adamant, bolstering our numbers. We were going to head to the motorway ringing London, the M25, and then follow it round, then heading down the A21, to our destination, where what awaited us…

It’s the sea, so there’ll naturally be a heavy concentration of enemies, but from what I’ve heard, this place is different, and the concentration of powerful foes is clearly abnormal. It’s also led to a higher instance of suicide and unexplained deaths in the local area before all this was known, just like Inuyama. Well then… time to clear this for when Ellie gets to Rank Four. It’s roughly ninety kilometres in a straight line, so she’ll immediately be able to claim it then.

Glancing at Ellie, who smiled back at me, I nodded. Yes, it’s time to show Ellie I mean business as her fiancé. If she, and Britain, has a problem, you’d best believe I’m going to solve it!