Seven Hundred And Twenty-One – Contains Status- Ginneka 2, Eri 11?

As teams headed off to deal with the remaining enclaves, morale soaring despite exhaustion and injuries, my sis took our parents back to the Material, Tsukiko accompanying her. I had asked Eri if she wanted to go, since it was her parents who were exposed to their first taste of the true reality of what we were doing here in the Boundary, but she had shaken her head and grimaced.

“No, I don’t want to without you. If I do, then I’ll only…” She bit her lip. “…you know what Emily said, don’t you? After all, you’re with us constantly, just as we’re with you!”

I winced. This is one of those situations where being wilfully ignorant is the safest choice. There’s a lot to be said for being an oblivious protagonist sometimes. But Eri won’t let it go. “Yes, I can’t say I was giving it my full attention, but it’s not like I couldn’t hear your furious thoughts.”

“Well then…” Eri insisted, but I shook my head.

“I get it. I do. You don’t think I struggled with it, on Christmas Eve, when I thought my sis was asking… you know what, she was asking, wasn’t she? She just lost her nerve at the final hurdle as usual. My point is… I understand mom’s viewpoint. Just… well, yes, she could be handling it better. But what about your parents? Mother-in-law Hana seemed to take it hard, like when you were injured.”

“It’s fine. Father seems to have a clear head on his shoulders.” Eri praised him for once, something that might have squeezed tears of joy out of him, were he still here to hear it. Eri was not demonstrative with affection to anyone but Aiko and me, although that world had expanded to include Shaeula, Hinata and the others now. “And mother, when she calms down, she’ll understand. Besides…”

Eri’s smile showed her rather cute cat-like fangs, as her more bestial form she’d taken in battle with Glitonea had shrunk back to a more ordinary Bakeneko model. “…you have no idea how petty mother is. She’s bursting with glee inside, which has overridden her aversion to the situation. If she stopped to think…”

“She is quite-quite like you then, Eri.” Shaeula chuckled. “Your own satisfaction over principles. Not-not that I disagree. It is the Fae way. Our wants are priority to us, all-all else is secondary. But for now…”

“Yes, might want to stop the family drama.” Henry nodded. While many of my women were leading the purges of the last enclaves, desperate to squeeze out the final fragments of experience, ether and loot, Shaeula, Tan (and thus Shiro), Eri, Ellie, Yukiko, Liz and Henry had remained, and we were watching our trapped captive, the Fossegrim. Hinata was also here, but doing something else…

“Not that we’re any stranger to it, with Uncle, bad business that…” Henry finished, only to sigh as Ellie glowered at him. “If the wind changes, your face will freeze like that, Ellie, then Akio won’t find you attractive anymore.”

“Oh, shut up, Henry!” Ellie declared, seeming extra regal wearing the Crown and carrying the British Coronation Regalia. “Besides, much as it feels wrong to say it, this is nothing like Uncle and his vile mess.” She bit at her lip hard enough for blood to flow, though it quickly regenerated, her pain response dimmed by months of brutal injury and recovery, in an endless cycle, so she likely didn’t even notice. “I… do sympathise with your parents though, Akio. You know I do. But… forget that. Now…” She glanced at the Fossegrim, still wrapped up in Tan’s fiery chains, before casting a glance at the severed head of Glitonea which was staring sightlessly at us, and was starting to become transparent, ether leaking.

“…what about this mess?”

“A good question.” I grimaced. “That floating island wasn’t here, but it still had a tangible presence. If anything, it’s like a Domain or Reality Marble in anime… a projection of a powerful, existent space, into our reality.”

“Of course it is!” Fossegrim grumbled. “And you are all in deep trouble now. Though if you let me go… I can perhaps intercede on your behalf.” The Fossegrim, defeated and a shadow of his prior strength, wheedled desperately, his haughty pride forgotten. “You killed one of the sisters. She did not say how many there were, but that she was the sister who governed Lughnasadh… I hear you mortals call it Lammas now…”

“That’s the harvest festival…” Liz mused. “Curious.”

“…regardless, they are all powerful sorceresses or enchantresses, and now their blood is upon your hands. Vengeance will be savage. But when it comes to women… I have a way with…” Fossegrim screamed, his cries quickly devolving into a slew of what were surely foul curses we thankfully didn’t understand, as Eri ground the butt of her axe into his burned, weeping lower body. When she relented, the Fossegrim rolled in his fiery chains and spat out harsh words.

“…you wicked bitch! If I was free…”

“But you’re not.” Eri narrowed her eyes coldly. “And if you keep up your attitude, I see no reason to keep you.” She waved the severed head, in a barbaric fashion even Henry found rather uncomfortable. “You already sullied our eyes, forcing us to see your pathetic twig. And listen to your wretched songs…”

“Wretched? My music is fit for Bragi, God of Skalds himself!” Fossegrim boasted, and I winced.

“Lucky Carrie isn’t here to hear that, nor Helmwige in Wisdom World. Your music is just a wicked enchantment.” I grumbled, and Shaeula spat on the stony beach, quite unlike her usual fastidious nature.

“Vile indeed. A male with no-no charms of his own, trying such wiles. Which did not-not work on us at all, I do add! While it did-did begin to have an effect on the others, such as those of Adamant…”

“Their resistance was credible.” Yukiko added. “I wonder…” She glanced at me, and I shrugged.

“I have my ideas, and we’ll look at them later, now then…” I turned my gaze to the ocean, where in a spray of golden dust, Hinata emerged, her expression triumphant. In her hands she was clutching a pair of necklaces, one I recognised from around Glitonea’s neck, the other similar in design.

Enchantress’ Necklace [Item Class: Noble] [Item Type: Law]

This necklace is imbued with a simple Law. That of Concealment. Enchantresses often travel the world hidden and unremarked, and they disdain revealing their true selves.

… … …

Especially now. It seems that Glitonea was rather ashamed of her true nature.

I paused, blinking in astonishment, as the description seemed to be rewritten even as it scrolled across my vision. That’s something you can do?

Knowledge and Wisdom, they are not fixed, but grow and spread, like the roots and branches of the Greatest of Trees within the multiverse. It is only natural for you to understand this… as a…

…Bondweaver…

Your Path is also aspected to Growth.

Oh, yeah, that makes sense. But… you’re certainly becoming far more talkative and expressive. Why is that?

This necklace… It seemed Yggdrasil was going to ignore me yet again. …is shaped of a Law bound into metal and jewels, for such are Enchanted easily with certain imbuements. And it shrouds the true nature of the wearer, and increases the effect of Skills involving concealment, stealth or defeating scrying and perception of one’s personal information.

The second necklace which Fossegrim had was similar, and actually a little stronger, as it seemed that Glitonea had a nature which was similar to the necklace, and only used hers to bolster it.

“Great job.” I patted Hinata’s head, using a breath of fire and wind element to dry her off. “I think that Treyvon and Sayuri-chan could probably use these.”

“Of course no treasure escapes me! I’m practically Queen Midas, after all!” Hinata declared impishly, before smirking playfully. “Most men wouldn’t like wearing such feminine jewellery, would they? I suppose we should be thankful it’s for Treyvon.”

“Just because he’s gay doesn’t mean he likes womanly things.” I chuckled, getting her joke. “But to be fair, I’d certainly wear female jewellery, if the stat boosts are good enough. I doubt I’m alone in that.”

Henry nodded, understanding, and Ellie and Yukiko exchanged amused glances, before Tan let Shiro speak up. “Shit, now we’ve got to persuade Bjarki and Ixitt to somehow make the most badass armoured dress so that Aki gets to wear it.”

Eri shook her head. “You have some weird hobbies, Shiro.”

“Oh come on, Eri. You can’t tell me you and Ai wouldn’t love to dress Aki up like a girl, and go out as a trio?”

Eri paused, tail and ears lashing thoughtfully. She glanced at me, and I couldn’t help but chuckle ruefully. “I’m not a girl. You should be thankful for that.”

“Oh, I am, but… you’d still have been my hero, who I love, even if you were like an older sister to me, not a brother!”

“Now that’s love!” Liz clapped her hands together, eyes sparkling. “Eri, my dear, you are quite the complicated woman.”

“No I’m not. I’m very simple really. Aiko is the same. We love who we love. That’s all that matters.” Eri demurred.

“This is all a lot of fun and all, but…” Henry glowered at the trapped Fossegrim. “…this scoundrel still needs to be dealt with. I don’t know precisely what they had to do with the invasion from the ocean, but I do know this put Ellie and her allies at risk, and he almost killed you, Akio!”

“I’m more concerned about her nearly killing Hyacinth.” We’d sent her away to help clear out the enemies remaining to calm her down and also take the pressure off the Adamant recruits and Knights who were in their first proper battle. As with Hyacinth taking part, it’s as good as won. “That was a nasty ability. Very restricted, but lethal. Fortunately it was something I could perceive and redirect.” And it’s given me a little more insight into my Path, or rather, what my Path should be…

“If there are more-more sisters… what chance that Glitonea was the strongest?” Shaeula asked, and Tan snorted.

“It is best to assume that she was at best average. Overestimate your foes, never underestimate.”

“Yeah, makes sense. Anyway… as for dealing with our captive here…” My smile was cold, sensing our new arrival. “…I’ve got it in hand.”

“Ginneka has arrived, nya!” Our thieving cat bounded over, having come at my command. Today she was wearing a black summer dress, heedless of the wintery temperatures, and Henry eyed her with some approval. I’m telling Melissa…

“Oh, you’re here, little sister, nya?” Ginneka purred, spotting Eri. “And your mood, it seems rather stormy, nya. Lighten up, drink, fuck, have fun, nya! Life is too short to be miserable and bored!” Ginneka’s blue eyes glanced my way. “At least, nya, you have a lusty man to tumble with. Alas, poor Ginneka, cold bed, cold loins, nya…”

“Good cats get the cream. But you’ve been a rather bad kitten up until now, so it’ll take a lot to change certain people’s minds…” Eri glanced at Shaeula, who still held a grudge, for obvious reasons. “I get it.” Eri then glanced at me. “You called Ginneka…” At her grimace, Eri amended her words. “…big sister Ginneka… here to use Thieving Cat, yeah?”

I nodded. “Yes. Assuming you can?” I asked our lusty silver-haired Bakeneko, who frowned, narrowing her eyes.

“I have space within myself, nya. But…” She sniffed the air, moving closer to Fossegrim, eyes watering, expression ecstatic. “I want it, nya! It’s like me, just… hah, hah…” She started panting, face red, and Liz giggled, shielding her face with one hand, while Eri rolled her eyes.

“I guess we have a lot in common…” Hinata was telling Yukiko and Ellie. “…when it comes to treasures now, I get like that. Probably why Princess Ffionnan and I get on so well. Her first return on investment will only make her greed grow, and then she’ll be in the palm of my hand!”

“You’re rather frightening, you know that?” Ellie asked, and Hinata giggled.

“Only to our rivals. You’re one of us now, Eleanor, so have no fear, you’ll never be poor. Not that you would be anyway, since you’re going to be Queen!”

Ignoring that banter, Fossegrim was staring at us, his green skin blanching. “Just what…?”

“Hold still, nya. No struggling!” Ginneka locked eyes with him, licking her lips, and suddenly Fossegrim thrashed and squealed within Tan’s burning chains. “Oh, nya, how wonderful. Really, this foolish Bakaneko…” She self-deprecatingly called herself the insult she hated most, throwing herself onto the ground, rolling over to show her belly. “…is grateful, nya! So many wonderful Skills to steal!” She then transformed, leaping onto my shoulder, but this time…

“Hang on…” Eri watched as the miniature Ginneka, only the size of an anime figure now, perhaps ten or twelve inches in height, began rubbing herself against my cheek. “…your head… wait, huh… I feel… strange…”

“Eri’s right…” I turned my head, only for Ginneka to playfully press her lips to mine, though since her head was tiny, I barely felt it, even as she giggled and purred. “…you can’t shrink your brain, that’s your weakness, but…”

My Eyes glowed, and I soon understood.

Immaterial Cat – The ability of a Bakeneko to transform their appearance and form to other shapes, now integrated and enhanced by a more potent shapeshifting, Shape Of Immaterial Water And Wind.

The subtle bodies become greatly mutable and spiritual functions are dispersed throughout those subtle bodies, allowing survival even when reduced to mere fragments of oneself. Damaged parts, both Spiritual and Material, can easily be replaced, and Water Elemental energies and Wind Elemental energies are strengthened, and all abilities using these energies are enhanced.

Mental acuity is also increased, and clones can be created, though these will be unable to regenerate themselves or recuperate Elemental energies or Aether, so will perish after these run dry, returning to dust.[Class: Legendary] [Type: Principle]

“Damn…” I eyed the Fossegrim with a little more respect. “…turns out you were a bigshot after all!”

The exhausted Fossegrim, writhing as though something vital was ripped away from him, a feeling Shaeula and I could sympathise with, in a spiritual pain which outstripped his physical wounds, gritted his teeth, before spitting out harsh words.

“Of course I am! I am the Fossegrim, greatest of Nixies. I have been gifted tributes by men, and served by eager women, for as long as the waters of the fjords have run cold and deep. Why, I…”

“Enough.” At Eri’s petulant glower, he shut his mouth. “Guess you should have stayed there then, if it was so great.” Her furry tail and ears were standing on end, and even her long, black hair was bristling. “But no, you chose to come try and take from us. Turnabout is fair! Oh, I feel uncomfortable. Ah…” She started scratching herself, body subtly undergoing minute shifting tremors only those with keen eyes like mine could see.

I think… Checking out Ginneka’s full details would surely give me the answer I sought, so my eyes flashed as the tiny Ginneka playfully pulled on my hair, drawing amused smiles from Yukiko and Ellie, Liz too, as they found her tiny form adorable.

That’s… quite the boost to her performance. Although… I sighed internally to see that Ginneka had two Ranks of Lovers’ Link. One Rank, sure, that made sense, but seeing as she was already Bonded Kin… no, I get it. It might just be a desperate promise Eri made, but she genuinely did keep it and treats Ginneka as her older sister. A disappointing sister that frustrates her sometimes, but… that’s so very Eri, isn’t it? So it’s only natural I’d see Ginneka as kin too… huh… I think I get it. Connections…

Having understood a little of how Ginneka usurped Skills, by feeling it myself, from my bonds with Shaeula, and now from witnessing it with my Eyes as she plundered the Fossegrim, removing the most difficult barrier to us keeping him secure and harmless, I had more context in just what Eri was feeling now, as Shifting Cat was gifted to her by Ginneka, but she also retained a portion of it herself, and they were connected. Connection. Bond. Lovers’ Link… the self… that’s it! I can do this!

Setting aside the very interesting details of Ginneka’s Status for later, I began to work, calling on my Path, and Rose, as First Adherent, watched on with great curiosity and joy, offering me her support and confidence. Lin, after seeming rather jealous, started offering her endorsement, and those who had Lovers’ Link of Rank eleven or higher were also curious, Eri most of all.

What are you… doing? I admit, I feel unwell, like I’m too large for my body, but…

At Eri’s words, I smiled, speaking out loud. “This is what the path is for. Ginneka, you shared yourself and forged a Bond with Eri in difficult circumstances. Yes, it was selfish, but… there was compassion in you too. You may be a spiteful little kitten…”

“Mean, nya…” Ginneka grumbled, but she didn’t strictly deny it.

“…and fickle, but… there’s loyalty there too. To your brother, to Eri… maybe even to me. So… now that you are no longer a Shifting Cat, but an Immaterial Cat… Eri has to change her Connection too… but… such is difficult. Unless…”

There is a Path to hold you up! Lin declared, and Rose giggled, having been beaten to the punch this time by her eager youngest sister.

Exactly. Now… This necessitated adding Ginneka to the Path, but… most of those with Lovers’ Link growing were gradually joining anyway. Ginneka’s blue eyes widened as she felt the weight settle around her, and in a shocking act, as she leapt off my shoulder, landing gracefully on Eri’s, I saw her Lovers’ Link grow from Rank 2 to Rank 3 in an instant. Curious. No matter… let’s do this!

My Eyes burning, head aching, lingering aftershocks of the temporal weight I was subjected to by Glitonea, perhaps, I examined the Connection, the Bond, between Ginneka and Eri, which held the essence of the Immaterial Cat, Fossegrim’s power taken and integrated within it. It makes me wonder what would happen if it was returned? Though… I’m not sure it fully can be anymore. If anything, he’d end up receiving a portion of catlike nature, maybe… catboys, huh? Nope, only works with women…

Ordinarily, seeing such Connections, even with my Eyes, wasn’t possible. But the Path, I could feel that its existence, nascent as it was, shaped reality around it, both Material, Astral, and perhaps something more too, that we could only imagine. Thus I could not only see it, feel it, but to me the Connection had weight, a tangible presence, and I could work Chirurgery on it, Heal it, or indeed sever and rebuild it, like I’d had to do with Hyacinth’s temporary Woe Bond earlier. I don’t know how I created this Path, but then… how does any Path come into being? It’s a strange world, but there are underlying laws, definitely.

It’s a bit like being Astral Emperor. Rose added. Though obviously those who have Paths are more willing to talk about the nature of them, they are still rather reticent about how they form.

Which makes sense, I believe. Lin added. Paths are power, of the truest, most personal sort. None would wish others to find out their weaknesses or even be able to easily replicate such.

Paths are power, huh? Yes… but my Path... Knowledge. Bonds. Connections. Growth. Fortune… all wrapped together. So… Eri?

Just do it. All I am is yours, and all you are is mine. Her thoughts displayed no hesitation. Even if something breaks, if you fail, then we did it together, and we’ll still be Connected to each other. Some Bonds can never be broken. Only made better and more brilliant over time!

Bold words… Shaeula teased, and we felt Aiko’s approval, even if her mental state was… exhausted… to put it mildly.

All right. The Connection, Bond, Skill, belongs to Eri, but it’s also… heh, a bit like Schrödinger’s Cat, how apt. It’s fluctuating between the state of purely being Shifting Cat and becoming more like Immaterial Cat. This just leads to clashing and discomfort. I expect Eri would reject the change to the Connection automatically in time, but… my Path is to bring out the best of such Bonds, to make them warmer, better, brighter, kinder… stronger.

As everyone watched on, the glow of aether, adherence, soullight and more surrounding us… I know I have to be careful with soullight, but… I’m sure I can spare it. I’m taking a few days off to recover after this, for sure! And besides, Eri’s right. We’re each other’s, if she absorbs my soullight, I’m confident it won’t make her any less herself… I began to craft the Connection, and as I was lost in it, I barely noticed the new messages scrolling across my vision.

Your Class, Bondweaver, has increased from Level Sixteen to Level Seventeen. You are now better able to understand and manipulate the tangible reality of Bonds, Connections and the like, improving what is there, and mitigating downsides…

Your Class, Taker Of Paths Unknown has increased from Level Fifteen to Level Sixteen. You have solidified your Path slightly. All Bonds and Connections you possess will be slightly strengthened, and you can slightly perceive the causal chain of Connections that can affect said Bonds…

So close. Wait, I think… yes, got it! As my Classes Levelled, I understood, and moments later Eri shuddered, as if letting out a whole-body sneeze. Her features melted like clay, it was rather unpleasant, but Liz still watched on with fascinated curiosity, as if a child in a toy store, everything new to her.

That feeling is… bizarre. But… I’m not beaten! Eri gathered her will, and moments later, she regained control of herself, taking my hand, Ginneka laughing and meowing almost proudly. My Eyes flared, and I realised we had succeeded.

That’s me? Eri was shocked, seeing her own status through my Eyes. I’m… I…

We could all feel the weight of emotion Eri did. She was so proud that she could finally stand beside me without fear, and of all her hard work. And…

I always knew you had potential, Eri. Shaeula was proud too. I most certainly do have excellent taste in friends, as I do in males.

Indeed. Your hard work is most inspiring, mistress Eri. Hyacinth added.

For those of us who weren’t able to hear the mental conversation, Eri’s rapidly changing expression must have been confusing, but while that was going on I rechecked a few points of note on both their Statuses.

Kami-Blessed Yōkai is a variant of the Kami-Blessed Class, granted to pure-blooded Yōkai who have somehow found the Favour of several Kami. White it offers all the benefits of the standard Kami-Blessed Class, it is far rarer, and in this case was likely only obtained due to the Kami wishing to do a favour for the benefactor who planned and implemented the Pilgrimage, potentially growing their Adherence base significantly.

There was also…

Being Of Both Form And Emptiness is a Class gained by those who have the innate ability to shapeshift but are not restricted by certain physical immutabilities such as protecting Spiritual and Material centres, instead adopting a more distributed form, where one part of the whole can represent and replace the whole. The effect of Healing Skills and Classes increases, as does any natural recovery and regeneration.

The effect of all Material Statistics is very slightly improved, and Charm increases, as does Alacrity and Intellect.

Eri had definitely gained a significant boost there, especially to her survivability, as now, not that we’d be testing it, potentially, unlike Ginneka and Kinneka before, she might be able to survive a strike through her head. Ginneka too, being fair. It’s not much different to how our captive here survived being crushed…

I’m curious about Queen Of The Night… my sis managed to send her thought. …it suits you, Eri, but the connotations…

I don’t think you get to throw stones in your glass house, Aiko… Eri retorted primly. …oh, sorry.

It’s fine. Well, not fine, but… you’re nearly done, yeah?

Yes. Just tidying up the last things here, then I’ll have a chat with the Norse Chosen who visited, and then… I’ll be coming to see you. Are you in the hotel still… no, you’re not, are you? Seeing her thoughts, I realised they must have travelled into the town proper.

I’ll let you know where we end up. Okay?

Sure. Anyway, I’m curious too, Eri, so…

Queen Of The Night is an advanced form of the Dark Temptress Class. Charm will further dramatically increase, and the effects of Charm will also be significantly increased. The charisma and physical beauty of the Temptress will greatly increase, and Skills relating to the Darkness Element, mental manipulation, love and lust will also significantly be strengthened. Ordinarily, to qualify for this Class, one must have ties to the Adherence of Royalty, but potentially in this case, your affinity for Nyx, Goddess of the Possessive Night is likely the reason.

Looks like you’re going to be even more stunning now, Eri… I teased, and she flushed, before coughing, her tail lashing idly, showing she was embarrassed. “Come on then, we need to get going…” Eri muttered, and Tan trussed up our hapless prisoner, and I created a jar by crafting the rocks around us into a tough glass. Once we’d sealed him inside, where he scowled at us sourly, though he flinched when Tan or Eri glowered at him, we cast one final look at Glitonea’s head as it faded away, a last puff of ether all that remained.

“I suppose we do.” Liz agreed. “So, my dear granddaughter…” She put on a cheery voice. “…how does it feel, having this thorn pulled from Britain’s flesh?”

“Rather good.” Ellie admitted. “Of course, by the sounds of it, we haven’t seen the last of them, but…”

“If they return, then so shall we, have no-no fear.” Shaeula grinned, and Hinata nodded, still playing with the pretty necklaces she’d recovered.

“Oh, it’s just more experience for us and Adamant. Is it callous to say we’d like to see that?”

“A little.” Henry added, expression solemn. “Young woman, you shouldn’t hope for battle. Assuming that nobody has died clearing out the other pockets of resistance…”

“They’d better not have…” Hinata warned. “Adamant has been training for and is well-geared for this.”

“A war won without friendly casualties is a wonderful thing. But you can’t rely on that. Even Akio here was blindsided today, yes?” I had to nod at that, and he continued, a little more confident. “See? Then there’s no way you can guarantee that you won’t lose people. In fact, it’s inevitable. The more conflicts, the faster the chance rises. Trust me, I’ve lost friends and colleagues. Seen many good men and women retire injured too. And they’re the lucky ones. At least they don’t go back draped in the Union flag. So don’t be too eager. Although…” He paused, lightening his words, perhaps not comfortable lecturing a young woman like Hinata. “…at least those injured here can be restored, good as new, yes?”

“That’s right.” I promised. “In fact, the Free Hospital should start being able to deal with such cases sooner than you think. Though we could dearly use more Eyes…”

I can help with that. Eri offered her aid, but I mentally denied her.

Nope. Not unless we have an absolute crisis. Let Christina do it. I don’t want you to suffer that sort of agony…

Fine then. Her reply was warm. Don’t say I didn’t offer though.

“The Eyes are definitely needed for Chirurgery, but not so much for Ether Healing. And it’s not impossible we can get some devices mass-produced to replicate an inferior vision to make it easier. In any case… it’s an economy of scale. When it takes off, the number of specialists will rapidly increase, and their training and experience will allow them to do more…”

We continued chatting about that, until the groups started filtering back, their objectives complete. Väinö, Astrid, Ekaterini, and the still deaf and half-blind Dorte, though that didn’t seem to have stopped her fighting, judging by the blood on her clothes and a heavy iron stick she was holding, returned. Seeing us, and the Fossegrim trapped in the jar, Väinö smiled broadly.

“Looks like you’ve got things in hand. So did we. Man, I’m tired. Could use a beer or ten. Vodka too. Still…” He cricked his shoulders. “…I can’t say this hasn’t been an eventful trip. Been fun to see how the rest of us are doing.” He winked at Dorte then, who scowled, as he made exaggerated mouth sounds so she could read his lips. “Our Nordic berserker here was battering in fishmen heads like clubbing seals. Blood everywhere! And her chains are nasty. Metal whips cutting crabs apart like we were having a Chinese feast. Hmm, Chinese… I could go for some about now! Fighting is hungry work!”

Hang on… Taking out a spare translation device, I gave it to Dorte. She glanced at me, confused, only for my next words to make her eyes, one currently sightless, go wide.

“I think the Connection to my Throne the device has bypasses your need to hear. It’s almost like Telepathy in a way, at least the way your brain reinterprets things.”

“I see. Yes…” she managed, before coughing and moderating her voice. “Do I… sound like that when I can’t hear?”

“I’m afraid so. It’s only natural…” Astrid soothed her. “…none of us like our own voices and being deaf would make it worse, I imagine. Now then…” Astrid smiled at Väinö. “…you wish to eat, drink and make merry? Me, I also have a hankering for some wonderful food. It will be unusual not to cook it for myself.”

“Yeah, you’re a legendary chef, I hear.” Väinö agreed, and as they bantered, Dorte winced, rubbing at her temples, so I apologised.

“Sorry. The translation device is still a bit high-pressure for the mind. Tanya complains about the headaches often, as does Valeska. But hey, better than having to read lips, yeah?”

“I… suppose so.” Dorte conceded, while Ekaterini had started talking to Ellie and Yukiko about politics and their plans for their countries, and how Greece could get involved. Though Ellie and Yukiko were both glancing my way as if wondering what my opinions were, which was both flattering and a little stressful. Ignoring Liz’s chuckles, I shrugged.

“You can give it back when you’re better. How long, do you think?”

“Sacrifice is… hardly an exact science. Longer than I wish, always. Longer than I expect, usually.”

“Sacrifice, huh? The shittiest form of power, if you’ll excuse my bad language. I don’t like it…”

“But heroes are the ones that make such sacrifices. As Tyr did in the myths.” Dorte insisted, before her expression softened. “As did you. I saw… enough…”

Hyacinth, who’d returned with her group, strode forwards. “Yes…” She pulled me into a hug, stroking my cheek where she’d hit me before, expression tender. “Akio was very brave, but very foooooolish too. Hyacinth does not wish him to sacrifice for me. But then…” Her violet eyes were knowing. “…Akio does not wish us to sacrifice for him, either. Therefore, his way is better. Tooo win without losses. Like now.” She gestured around at the regrouping forces. David with Sir Arthur, Mary-Jane, the others and his Knights, Motoko and Natsumi, leading Adamant and the Fae, and many more…

“That’s just naivety. No war is won without heroism and loss.”

“And Akio knooows that. He has already lost before.”

I nodded at Hyacinth’s words, remembering Kyoto.

“But that doooes not mean we should abandon trying it. I find that more heroic than accepting such defeats as inevitable.” Hyacinth insisted.

“More foolish, certainly. But…” Dorte grimaced, rubbing at her blind eye pensively. “…I have to admit I was rather impressed. I still think the strong should shoulder the burden alone, but…”

“The strong were weak once. How do we know who is going to be the strong?” I argued, enjoying Hyacinth’s embrace. “Hyacinth is no joke, you perhaps might not be impressed with that as she’s a Fae, but Eri…” I glanced over at her, and she nodded.

“Indeed. If you wish to spar when you have recovered, you can see for yourself. And I was nothing but a feeble, whiny little girl. But my resolve is my greatest strength. I am never going to let Akio fight alone. And I know Rossweisse, Ortlinde and the others want us to get along. The nature of the struggle is competitive, but… we don’t have to kill each other for the prize. We can do what sensible people do…” She glanced at Ekaterini, who seemed to understand, judging by the amused expression on her hawkish face. “…and appoint a leader. That leader’s Akio, but as you’ve seen, assuming you have eyes, and heard, assuming you’re not deaf…”

Dorte shook her head, marvelling at Eri’s rebuke.

“…Akio’s way is to make us all reach our potential, then work out how we can make each other stronger by working together. If that’s not the style of a worthy leader, show me a better one?”

“It’s true.” Ekaterini nodded. “Perhaps your greatest asset is not your strength, but the depth of your political connections. Britain and Japan together, and…” She glanced over at Yu-mi and her fellow South Koreans. “…perhaps more. It is an alliance for the ages, and far deeper than merely ties of trade and shared goals. Greece, under my aegis, would wish to join hands. Nothing I have seen here has changed my mind, and…”

“All right, all right. We get it…” David strolled over, clapping his hands loudly. “…but shit, wrap this up, man.” He glowered at me playfully. “Everyone’s shed blood, sweat and tears, and while I’m not exactly satisfied…” His knights groaned at that, though I could sense the camaraderie there, shared blood and battle rapidly building such, as David intended for this event. “…I’d give everyone a passing mark. So time to give a speech, Duke…” He enjoyed drawing out the word, embarrassing me, and Grulgor laughed heartily behind him, and Väinö cracked a smile. “…so we can hit the town and celebrate coming out the other side all in one piece.”

“Yes, we’d love a speech!” Yu-mi teased, and she was joined by several others, even Mizuki-chan shouting out I should get on with it. As I watched the smiling sea of faces, many of them covered in blood from freshly Healed injuries, I felt a glow of pride and connection.

Connection… what we have isn’t enough. If these are my Valkyries, and my Knights, I need to support them better, protect them. Henry’s right, it’s naïve to think we’ll never suffer losses, with what’s to come, but… I need to give everyone their best chance of surviving everything the world throws at them, so they can live their best lives, and protect their families, friends and those they cherish.

Setting that thought aside for now, I chuckled. “A speech, huh? I’m not much for one…”

“Oh, I don’t know about that.” Shiro interrupted, Tan having relinquished the body.  “You’ve given a few rousing ones. Don’t you think?” Eri, Shaeula, Hyacinth and the others nodded, and I stifled a sigh. Of course you’d all think so, you’re biased. But… I don’t hate that.

“Anyway…” I cleared my throat. “…this day was the first major operation where we all worked together for a common goal. Sure, we’ve fought battles of necessity, battles for gain, battles to train… but never what was effectively a small war. I know many of you got hurt, you were likely terrified, but… you all came through it braver and stronger. And we’ll do even better next time, I assure you! Don’t worry…” I chuckled to lighten the mood. “…I’ll have our Mortal Engineers and blacksmiths work on improving your gear.  We’ll spare no expense on keeping you all safe! That aside… what we did here mattered. Invaders from the ocean put everyone at risk, and a sinister plot was foiled here. So be proud. Because I’m proud of you all!” I paused, and as everyone watched on in awkward silence, I made a joke.

“You can all clap now. This is the moment. Some cheers work too!”

As they responded to my words with thunderous applause, I shook my head, a little awed. They even kind of look like an army…

“Of course they do-do.” Shaeula added, smirking at Shiro and Hinata. “Did we not-not say they would? Adamant shall be legends, told of in the same tales we are. Your legion, your allies, your-your most fervent supporters, ready to lay down body-body and spirit for you, for us.”

“One day soon, women around the world will say their dream is to join Adamant.” Hinata agreed.

“Yeah, but the standards are high.” Shiro added. “I have to say… it’s hot seeing all the cute and sexy women lined up in military uniforms.”

“Trust you, Shiro…” Hinata giggled.

As the noise died down, so did their banter, and I finished my speech. “Anyway, I’ve been watching, as have your Marquises, and my lovely fiancées. I’ll be visiting some of you who performed particularly well later to offer our thanks, and some rewards. Who knows, maybe your destinies could change this very evening, as you win the chance at a Favour from the Gods themselves. But… right now, you don’t care about that, do you? Instead… have some fun, remind yourselves you stood, and didn’t back down, and won. Heroes all…”

“And the drinks are on Akio!” Hinata added cheekily, getting more applause and playful cheering.

“I’m going to drink you dry, Duke.” David promised. “And I know the lads here are big drinkers. If not, they’d better bloody well learn fast!” More laughter, and with one final flourish of praise, I dismissed everyone, except a small group of Fae, who were going to guard our Fossegrim in a jar.

“Right then. I’m up for that fish and chips supper you promised, granny.” Henry chuckled. “What about you?”

“Me?” I exchanged a glance with Eri, who nodded solemnly. Yes, I’ll come, of course.

“Sadly, we’ve got to speak to our parents. They’re with my sister and Tsukiko now, so….”

“Ah.” Liz nodded. “I understand. I… well, stiff upper lip, British bulldog spirit and all that. You are half British, Akio, so show it!”

“And what about me?” Eri asked, only to be astonished by Liz’s reply.

“You? Best leave the axe behind. British jails aren’t as nice as Japanese ones, dear…”

I wasn’t the only one who had to chuckle at that. Cheeks pink, Eri shook her head. “I wouldn’t cut them off, literally.”

“But figuratively is fine? I know it can be rough…” Liz advised warmly. “…but please do give them another chance or ten and think of it from their perspectives. Family is precious, even the ones who disappoint us. Besides…” Liz gazed at me knowingly, and I nodded, even as our allies were disappearing from the Boundary, waking up back at the hotel, where my Material form was still holding court.

 “…yes. Family is a type of Connection, a deep Bond. We shouldn’t risk such carelessly…”

So relax, Eri. Okay, don’t relax, I’m not exactly taking my own advice there, but… let’s at least see what lessons our parents learned from today? Surely they can’t close their eyes to everything that happened here…