On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

“So will you be celebrating Christmas with Yasu-kun and the rest of your family?” I asked Hisano-chan, as I handed her the Adamant badge. She placed it on the collar of her uniform, and nodded, a shy smile on her face.

“Yes, though it might be a bit awkward. He’s bringing Karen-chan to dinner. It’ll shock our parents. He’s…” She shrugged, unable to decide quite how to explain it, and beside us, Sana-san, who’d received her emblem previously, let out a hearty laugh.

“…not been popular with women?” Hisano-chan managed in the end. “And Karen-chan is older, though I don’t think that’s a bad thing. Cousin Yasu-kun is… he needs someone to keep him in line.” She changed what she was going to say.

“That he does. To be honest though, I wasn’t popular before either, nor was Shugo-kun. It’s only Hayato-kun who wowed the ladies.” I supported Yasu-kun as a loyal friend should, and Yae, who was next in line, and nearly last, only the pair of twins, Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan, who were receiving special badges, still waiting spoke up.

“I think that’s not true. You were popular with Ri-Ri, Aki, and dare I say it, Ai loves you very much… as a big brother.” She drew that out, amused. “And I don’t know Shiro that well…” Yae, her bleached blonde hair piled up under her military-style cap, nodded, a few strands coming loose. “…but from what she says, she was clearly crushing on you bad, but just too dense to notice. Nicknames just scream affection, don’t they, Aki?”

“Nice try, Yae.” I chuckled, not missing her point. “Honestly, I’m impressed at your dedication. Joining Adamant… it’s not something to do lightly.”

“We totes know.” Sana-san chuckled, straightening her badge, seeming to like the pretty design and shining metal, as well as the single twinkling jewel that indicated her rank as an ordinary member. “And I can’t say I get exactly why everyone’s here, ya know, but I can totes tell ya we’re here eyes wide open. So relax, Akio-kun!”

These girls are quite a combination. Shy Hisano-chan, gal Yae, and full gyaru Sana-san. I won’t count the twins, they’re quiet, polite and well-behaved all the time… still, they all pledged themselves to Adamant, so I’ll make sure, as I know Hinata and the others will, that they’ll benefit, and grow strong. And with all the daughters of nobility and other dignitaries in the group, it’s a good way of making social connections that would otherwise have been impossible for them. Lifelong friendships are forged in battle, after all…

“Fine. Say hi to Yasu-kun and Karen-chan for me. I hope Karen-chan appreciates my gift.” I’d got her and her co-workers pens similar to Haru’s. They weren’t as fancy, of course, lacking the Ether Crafting that went into hers, but they were professional grade, and would make writing reports less of a chore. As for Yasu-kun and the others… we weren’t really much for gifts, but I’d sent them all some excellent booze.

“I will do. Now, I can see Yae-chan…” Hisano-chan had warmed up to Rika-san and Yae since their arrival. Rika-san, of course, wasn’t the sort to join Adamant, so she was probably just enjoying Tokyo at Christmas, waiting for Yae. “…is eager to receive her badge. Best hurry.” she advised me, and with a knowing grin, I followed her advice and gave Yae her emblem. She took it, brown eyes shimmering with moisture and emotions, before she reverently pinned it to her collar.

“I feel like I’m truly accepted now.” she marvelled. “Though of course, I’d be happier if you were a bit bolder with me, Aki. Don’t be shy just because I’m your ex! We broke up over Ri-Ri, but she’s more than happy to share now so…” She grabbed my arm, earning chuckles from around us, though I could tell she was only flirting playfully, rather than being entirely serious.

“Very funny. We had one date, and it was only for a wager. You knew we weren’t serious.” I chided her gently, and she released my arm regretfully, pursing her lips.

“Yeah, I guess so. Blame yourself for being unforgettable though!” She stuck out her tongue, grabbing Sana-san and Hisano-chan. “You both agree with me, don’t you? Whatever the reason, a date’s for boyfriend and girlfriend, so… I was definitely together with Aki, even if just for an evening! Now then, if you get bored with your families, come and hang around with me and Rika-chan! We’ll have fun! I’m in the big city, Tokyo! I don’t want to have regrets.” She glanced at me again. “More regrets.”

“Uh, I guess ya might be right, but are ya totes sure ya want to be the one that Akio-kun didn’t fall for? Ya’d be famous, I bet, if that’s any consolation? And ya, when my dad gets boring, I’ll hit ya up for some karaoke or something. I’m not going to see my mom, she’s busy playing happy families with her new squeeze and his annoying daughter. Though, if I’m being totes fair, she’s not been so annoying since the concert, ya feel me?”

“I might come out too.” Hisano-chan agreed. “Yasu-kun can be a bit overpowering. I’m sure we can meet up with some of the trainees, or even other members here…”

As the girls discussed their own plans, I turned to the twins. They had waited patiently, matching smiles on their faces, while I had given out rank insignias to all the other members. Now it was their turn, and Hinata had something to say.

“There are those who don’t have the particular talents required to lead as Officers, but… their gifts are even more precious, treasures for Adamant that shine like Diamonds.” Her grin was fond, but also carried a hint of avarice, as if she was appraising a treasure. Which the twins are, of course, Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan have worked as hard as anyone, and we owe a great deal of success to their efforts.

“Such treasures can’t be measured by mere rank, so… instead, they shall be given a single, large jewel upon their badges, as proof of their worthiness. Single star, Radiant!”

Shiro and Shaeula applauded gently, and the rest of Adamant joined in. I knew that Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan were shy… no, shy wasn’t the right way to put it, they were just insular, two halves of a whole, but because of their aid and assistance with learning elements, they were popular with their fellows, who seemed rather overprotective.

That’s you calling the kettle black, my dear pot… Eri’s voice rang in my head, and I could see she, Motoko and Natsumi had arrived, likely for Daiyu’s ceremony.

Yeah, I get it. But you can’t tell me you don’t like the twins and see them as younger sisters?

Of course I like them. Anyway, get on with it, we’ve hurried over, but we need to get back to our home soon…

Fine. I know. I’ve a lot to sort out and little time to do so.

“Chiaki-chan, Chiasa-chan…” I held out their Adamant insignia. A single, larger star-shaped diamond was placed in the centre of each badge. “…here. Yours are a bit special and experimental, as they both link to the same spatial storage. They’re a bit harder to use, but with your talents, it’ll be fine.”

“Thank you, Akio-sama.” “Yes, we are grateful, Akio-sama.” “And to you, our Commanders.” “And High Commander.” “It is a great honour to be a part of Adamant…” “…to be the chosen that shall exult Akio-sama’s name and carry out his will…” “…we graciously accept these precious offerings…” “…they shall be family heirlooms, passed down to our children…”

“A bit much, but… I’m glad you like them.” I chuckled, patting their shoulders warmly. “Say hi to Ren-kun and your father for me and tell them happy Christmas.” The twins agreed, returning my words, and offering their own well wishes for my family.

“All right, that’s the Christmas ceremony done. We’ll probably make a tradition of this.” Hinata chuckled. “Now go and have some fun. Pilgrimage starts again tomorrow.” She hopped down, grabbing Sakura by the arm. “You’d best hurry and come over, the fun’s only just starting. Mother-in-law Emily is starting to hyperventilate over meeting Eleanor in person, and whoever is accompanying her. If she starts drinking it’ll be a hilarious mess.”

“That sounds…” Sakura was a bit lost for words, and I was sure she would likely have chastised Hinata for unladylike behaviour in the past, but their relationship had shifted. “…I do not know how it sounds.” she admitted finally. “But I shall make haste. It has been too long since we were at an intimate family gathering all together, with no… no unpleasantness.”

“Yeah, it’ll be only fun things.” Hinata promised. Shaeula had also descended, and she came over to me, grinning.

“You will have-have to handle the restless Aliyah alone.” Indeed, it seemed that she was staring at me as if she wished to bore a hole through me. She probably wants to get this over with so she can go out drinking with her brother and the rest of Fenrir. I’m sure that Yu-mi and her crew are going too. I watched as they all gathered around Kim Eui, who was waiting for Daiyu’s ceremony.

“As for me, I shall-shall borrow Nie Ling to fetch Anna, as well-well as a detour to Mount Atago to fetch your dear sister Haanōbō.”  she suggested, eager to tease me. “I shall send-send her back when I am done, as you shall require her aid.

“That’s fine. We are all family… in a spiritual sense, definitely. I’d like Aiko to get closer to her and Arangbō, since she’ll be one of the Four Directions if all goes well.”

As we chatted, Adamant dispersed, except for those remaining either for the Fenrir ceremony, or for Daiyu’s benediction. I followed Luciana towards the rest of her company, admiring the panther-like grace with which she moved. She’s always been sharp, but now… it’s like she’s always ready for action. Her stats aren’t spectacular, she lacks Levels, but she knows how to leverage them, punch above her weight class…

“Quite the show.” Treyvon greeted us. “Luciana, you’re going up in the world.”

“Captain.” She saluted crisply, this time in a more military fashion, before she did indeed make the Adamant salute too, hands forming the diamond. “I am indeed. Though I have pledged my loyalty to Adamant, and through it, Akio, I am still a loba negro, a wolf, and my teeth are sharp. Besides, Fenrir is just as much his now as yours.”

“True, but… you ain’t got to be so damn smug about it.” Aliyah grumbled, crossing her arms, a scowl on her face, hair beads clinking rhythmically as she pouted. “But fuck me, I never thought I’d see you tamed, Luciana. Ain’t this just another crazy thing in this messed up new world? A shame.” She glanced over at the departing Adamant members, as well as the remaining idols. “Fucking Tyr. I’d give my right arm to get my share of these little cuties. Though you’re definitely more of a beauty rather than a cutie, Luciana. What a fucking waste. You damn sure you ain’t going to try the other team? Seems to me you’re in the right place for it. Lot of women there who strike me as rather indifferent to men. Clever girls.”

“I am quite contento to be just who I am.” Luciana shrugged. “Come now, Aliyah, you know me better than that. And I know you. Dry your tears of frustración and rejoice. We are no longer mere loba negro, but… Dios matando Fenrir, God slaying wolves!”

With her hands on her hips, in her Adamant uniform, Officer insignia displayed proudly, her long, brown ponytail hanging behind her, her eyes glittering with determination and pride, Luciana cut a very impressive figure. Within the ranks, many members of Fenrir, including the big guys Travis and Manx, applauded, and she took her place beside Aliyah, waiting for me to make my own speech. All right then. Time to fish out their new storage insignias. For Fenrir, it’s even more important they have access to spatial storage, though for very different reasons…

“In that case, I’ll keep it brief.” I began, and Aliyah snorted.

“Yeah, you fucking well do that. We’re not soldiers, all waiting for the brass to deliver a rousing speech. We’re mercenaries… no, I suppose that ain’t quite right, is it?” The foul-mouthed, fiery woman grinned at her brother, showing her white teeth as she smirked rather ferally. “We’re not even contactors anymore. We’re brought and sold. Shit, maybe we are soldiers now.”

“Not exactly.” I was rather amused by Aliyah’s cheek. She was outspoken, inappropriate and when socialising, often drunk and annoying, but when the situation called for it, she was a fighter, as was her brother and all the Black Wolf, now Fenrir. “You’ve just settled down for permanent, gainful employment. But your… rather more irregular natures are what we need. Anyway, I’m sure you’re eager to go out and celebrate Christmas…”

“I’m hoping to get hammered, maybe hit on a few cute women…” Aliyah agreed, ignoring Treyvon as he rolled his eyes. “…but yeah, that ain’t happening until we’re done here. And you’ve got your plans too.” she conceded in a rare moment of agreement. “So yeah, I’ll shut the hell up now.” She mimed zipping her lips.

“In that case, as I was saying…” I started again. “…Fenrir is a group forged from your experience as Private Military Contractors…” Treyvon looked satisfied as I addressed them with his preferred terminology. “…and that’s here to stay. Just that your contract is now permanently under my aegis. With your experience, coupled with spiritual knowledge gained here, you might not be soldiers, but you’ll be an unparalleled force. But not just for fighting…”

I paused for a brief moment, running through what I wanted to say. “No, while I know that such forces as the old Black Wolf Company were indeed hired for foreign military operations, quite often you were bodyguards or scouts, or involved in acquisitions and search-and-rescue.” I used those euphemisms with a wry sense of amusement, remembering the time they had tried to acquire me. “That’s going to continue. If anything, you’ll be more heavily involved in such world-spanning missions than ever. Hope you have your passports ready.”

“Of course.” Trey agreed. “And we’ve even got those fancy diplomatic Ministry ones. We’re eager to get cracking. My sister might enjoy lounging around, drinking and flirting unsuccessfully with women…” She glowered at her brother, but he continued, seemingly used to her tantrums and ire. “…but I’m getting a bit restless. Wolves are hunters, and God-slaying wolves, as Luciana put it, are no exception.”

“I have no doubt of that. And the situation is fluid.” I agreed. “Since we’ll soon be able to fix the glaring flaws in our Territory’s structure and defences, it’s time to start planning for the future. Once Pilgrimage is over and the new year is upon us, I think you’ll be paying a visit back to the USA. Las Vegas is fun all year round, I hear.”

I wanted to visit when I was in America, but events precluded that. Now… I can simply use others as my hands and feet to get things done. The land where Shaeula and I found Foehn, that endless desert, is too interesting to leave untapped. Besides… I produced the most unique of the spatial storages I had created. It was, unlike ordinary designs, split into two separate storage spaces, one made to contain living beings, or rather… one very special type of mushroom…

“I for one am looking forward to getting back on American soil…” Trey agreed, and his sister, no less moved, added her thoughts.

“Fuck yeah. Don’t get me wrong, here’s not so bad, but… drinking and gambling, and American women… I ain’t going to leave the casino for days…”

“And there goes our money…” Trey sighed. “But you do know we’ll attract attention and be monitored. The NSA, CIA, FBI, DOD, none of them are fools. We’re on their watchlists, no doubt about it.”

“True, but they’ll not be willing to burn any bridges with me.” I posited. “But here’s some insurance. Now, unlike the Adamant badges, these ones will be rather subtle.” I handed out wolf pins, badges, even belt buckles and earrings to the group. “They’re small, I was running out of spatial element, even with our sudden windfall, but… a few pistols, some ammunition, things for emergencies… you’ll never be caught flat-footed again.”

With the unique metals from the Materia Tree, mass production of these small items isn’t difficult. Daiyu reminded me of Spatial Storage Talismans, used by the Sects of old, disposable, mass-produced creations, though in the modern day such were impossibly valuable relics, most used up over fifteen hundred long years, or lost to mischance.

“Aren’t you lucky, Luciana?” Aliyah teased her. “You get two.” Luciana attached her wolf-head earring, and I’d matched the gem in it to the ones on her Adamant rank insignia.

“It is not a big deal. Merely a backup.” The woman shrugged. “And before you say it, Aliyah, relajarse, be calm. While I am indeed now affiliated with Adamant, and the oaths are… estricta… there is no conflict with my role as part of Fenrir. Indeed, I shall be looking out for our interests.”

“Shit, I ain’t saying I don’t trust you, just… oh, I don’t fucking know!” Aliyah shrugged her shoulders, head tilted, her hair beads catching the light. “I’m just jealous, probably. Don’t mind me.”

Jealous? Oh, I get it… Luciana’s probably her type. Not that we have any sort of relationship other than professional, despite what Aliyah’s thinking…

“Don’t worry, your one is special.” I handed over the unique treasure, which was a bundle of beads, tied by an elegant silver string. “And while I doubt they are going to confiscate your storage items, this one should certainly pass undetected.” I handed it over, and she quickly tied it into her hair after displacing a few other beads, and indeed, it was utterly indistinguishable to anyone that couldn’t see aether clearly, and even then, if Aliyah circulated her own aether, the signature would be masked, unless you had a decent pair of Eyes. “I’ve got a larger storage for you, too, Trey, and I’m hoping to get it upgraded to be able to carry mushrooms too before New Year. You’ll need lessons from Hyacinth, and one of you is going to have a crash course with the twins until you’ve mastered water and wood elements as well, but…”

“I get it.” Trey agreed. “Get in, find a place to hole up, go to the Boundary, find a suitable source of earth or water element, drop and grow the mushrooms we’re carrying…” He tapped his new, rather subtle belt-buckle, again designed to escape notice, as in the unlikely event there was trouble, losing gear was fine, but the Ring Gate Mushrooms… that wasn’t acceptable, as they taxed Hyacinth still… and there are political concerns, of course…

“…then someone with an Anchor to spare, they take a pequeño viaje through the Gate to where we protect, and in comes the ether, and… instante beachhead and transport links.” Luciana suggested.

“Fuck, I wanted to say that.” Aliyah complained. “But it ain’t a bad plan. From your sleeping, brain-fucked guy in Kyoto, we’ve seen you just can’t leave these Anchors about, can you? But those linked to the network, soon as shit hits the fan reinforcements can be there. Strength in numbers, ain’t I right?” She snorted loudly.

“Exactly. And there’ll be other missions too. Hell, maybe you can even keep your hand in, take a few jobs that don’t compromise morals or our interests, keep your networks of contacts intact. But first up is to secure a worldwide system of travel and linked Territories. With our plans for the hub…”

We’ve scouted a good portion of the area we’ll be covering once we hit Rank Four, and there’s a half-dozen sites with enough water or earth element to control a Hub. Especially since Ixitt’s best Mortal Engineers have been looking at ways to artificially create the elemental strengthening effect of Rhyming Trees. Creating an Artificial Elemental Tree, similar to the Rhyming Tree, isn’t impossible, and should allow us to link multiple Ring Gates to the site. Surrounded by Defensive Emplacements, Barracks and manned by trained, well-equipped troops at all times… the Hub will no longer be a point of dangerous weakness… and we’ll have the ether to go crazy, thanks to everyone’s efforts towards my Christmas gift…

“Sounds good.” Aliyah cracked her knuckles. “Anyway. You lied. Shit, that speech dragged on and on. I’m eager to get celebrating. But fuck me… KFC, for Christmas? Really? Even Trey and I ain’t sunk so low…”

“Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll have a good time. I know arrangements have been made. Got to keep morale up. And don’t worry, I get how weird it must seem to foreigners. Nobody here bats an eye, but mom is constantly floored by the way Japan’s been tricked by marketing to make it a tradition.” I gave out the final few spatial treasures. We wouldn’t have issues like in South Africa where we could only transport subtle weapons, which nearly cost Aliyah and Treyvon dearly, not anymore. At least not until border control worldwide catches up. Damn it, we need to make sure the Ministry starts making plans. Maybe we can make detectors for spatial fluctuations? I’m not going to de-eyeball Christina the thousands of times it would take to get all the staff there sorted…

“I’m desperate for a cold beer, and maybe a bottle of whiskey or three…” Aliyah agreed. “I ain’t demanding turkey, but a fat steak, rare and all the trimmings, would go down a fucking treat…”

“Sounds good. Don’t get too drunk though, Pilgrimage starts bright and very early tomorrow.” I warned, and she chuckled ruefully.

“Yeah, I get it, I get it. Anyway, you’ve one more group to impress, ain’t you?” She jerked a thumb over towards the waiting Daiyu. “Besides, we can’t get hammered with our new Korean friends until you’re done.”

I nodded at Aliyah’s words, before patting her shoulder. I shook hands with Treyvon, Travis and Manx, as they were the ones I knew best out of Fenrir. Before I could leave though, Aliyah rolled her eyes, nodding towards Luciana, so I clasped her hand too, and she shook politely, and then once more made the Adamant salute. As those of Fenrir left, I turned to the last group, taking my place beside Daiyu, who took my hand, squeezing it tightly.

“All right then. You’re up.”

Daiyu nodded, and together, we looked out over the collection of idols, Eri, Motoko, Natsumi, Kim Eui and all those who were part of the new Incorruptible Jade. She took a deep breath, and her obsidian gaze met mine.

“It’s all right.” I murmured, near inaudibly. “No matter what happens, what knowledge Su Caihong and her daughter brings, nothing between us will change. And your efforts will continue to be rewarded, your disciples will continue to respect you.”

“I know.” She returned my reassurance with a slight smile. “Yet it does please me to hear you say it. Words of the heart can often subordinate words of the mind. Or as we might say… the words of a Dragon carry more weight than the fears of a peacock.” Taking a deep breath, she addressed the crowd.

“Welcome, my disciples. And I am grateful you have taken the time to be here.”

“How could we not?” Motoko replied, her voice warm and kind. “You are our sister, as well as our instructor. To not offer you your due as both is something we would never do.”

“That’s right.” Natsumi chuckled. Beside her, Kim Eui, who was still not comfortable with displays of affection, her emotions muted by the horrors of Choe-Museon, though she was recovering, her figure filling out, the frenetic light in her eyes diminishing with time and care, nodded, still a girl of few words.

“After all…” Natsumi continued. “Just as we wish Tsumura Style to proliferate, you wish your Sect’s knowledge and legacy to live on. And we can respect that desire. Besides…” She glanced around at her fellow disciples, a grin on her face. “…the strength and abilities you offer, and the future prospects, are limitless, and very helpful, especially for our idol friends, from what I’ve seen.”

Keiko-chan agreed, speaking for them all. “I apologise if this is out of turn, but… Matriarch Daiyu, thank you for your instruction.” She bowed deeply. “I’m still not sure what Cultivation truly entails, the culture, the end goal, but… I do know that it brings our dreams of being the best idols we can be, shining stars, to fruition.” Nods followed her words, an emboldened, she continued. “Our performances have become far superior, and we have the ability to do things nobody has ever achieved before. So I think I speak for us all when I say we’re honoured to be granted this opportunity.”

The others echoed her, and I could see the joy in Daiyu’s face, though likely she still seemed rather stern to the others, her expression subtle.

“No, it is I, who thanks you all.” Daiyu insisted. “No matter the depths of the knowledge, the sharpness of a sword, there is no value if there are none to wield them. Now… while I was indeed my father’s daughter, the young prodigy of the Incorruptible Jade, I did not become involved in the Sect’s governance. But… I have learned. Just as with Adamant, there must be order. So…” She gestured, and several weaselkin came running over with large crates. “…there shall be order. From Junior Disciple, to Senior, to Elder, to Hall Master and beyond…”

The crates were opened to reveal Cultivator-style robes, in white and black. In addition, there were sashes in a multitude of colours. “My gifts to you all, shall be these. I do not celebrate Christmas, in fact, I had not heard of it until leaving the Halls of my Sect.” Her face was slightly pink now. “Yes, I was sheltered, only caring about what was within the narrow confines of my home. Such naivety will not serve. We must be one with the world, experience all it has to offer.” She glanced at me, warmth in her eyes.

“To that end, I thank the weaselkin for creating these for me. As well as… these.” From her Spatial Ring she produced a number of jade pins. “These shall signify your achievements. The sashes shall mark your elements, and these pins, mastery in Techniques.” There were small swords, spears, bows, fists, and other stranger ones, such as dragonflies, wolves and more, all artfully carved and very attractive. “Speaking of Techniques… I believe that our Sect shall blend the martial arts I inherited, and recovered from the traitors of Kyoto, with Tsumura Style. But there are also the Five Noble Pursuits, and many more things to learn.”

“What of… Dual Cultivation?” Eri, who had been silent, asked.

“I shall do it with none but Akio. As you well know.” Daiyu’s reply was instant and firm. “But I understand your concerns. I will of course teach you, my fellow sisters, and… if any disciples wish to take that step, I can instruct them. But for now we lack men. In the future, I shall surely have male disciples, but they will have to make do with the scrolls and tags that detail it, and any willing companions from our Sect. I do not demand chastity from you all, or that you all dedicate yourself to my Dao Companion. Such a thing is laughable.”

She smiled at Eri then, a rather noticeable one, showing how amused she was. “I am not copying all from this Adamant. A Sect that only offers the female disciples to a single master shall quickly find itself extinct in future generations. One man can only sire so many children, and while Cultivation can remove much danger from inbreeding, and it can even be desirable to pass on certain bloodlines and constitutions, fresh blood is always necessary. Regardless of that, new insights and talent is always required. So finding your own Dao Companions is something I welcome. Not you, of course, Eri. I know where your heart lies.”

“I don’t doubt it.” Eri agreed. “Yes, you make a lot of sense, but…”

“But you wonder what would happen were a disciple to wish to practice Dual Cultivation with Akio? I am a jealous woman, Eri.” Daiyu laughed, a gentle, warm chuckle. “To his fellow wives, I am happy to teach, but… if any others wish that privilege… impress me greatly, show your talents that make you worthy of my teachings and Akio’s love. I suspect it is a mountain peak too tall for most of you. But I will teach you the most important lesson of Cultivation…” As everyone hung on her every word her smile turned to a wicked one, reminiscent of Shaeula’s. “…if the peaks exist, they must be scaled, or we should die trying. Cultivators let nothing stand between them and their goals.”

“Thank you for your teachings, Matriarch!” the group chimed in together, though Eri was finding it hard to contain her mirth at Daiyu’s reply.

“Now come, receive your robes, and on this day, become truly my disciples!” Daiyu insisted. “I shall make a new tradition. On this day, each year, we shall hold the ceremony again, welcoming new blood. And we shall award sashes and pins. Strive hard, so that you may burn fiercely, like a Phoenix, and earn my respect and the Sect’s accolades. For remember… knowledge goes to those who deserve it!”

I watched everyone come up and claim their robes, which were not dissimilar to Chinese dresses, slightly less risqué qipao and cheongsam. The choice of white or black was a difficult one, but Daiyu merely snorted and suggested if they wished other colours, they should speak to the weaselkin, and hope they had the coins to spare for such luxuries. All right then, the ceremonies are over. Next up… I’ll go greet the arriving guests back at the mansion, then go fetch Eleanor…

***

“This is the last task then?” Nie Ling asked, and I nodded.

“You’ll have to send Ellie and her mother back later, but yes, you can relax after this for most of the day.”

She’d changed since we first met. The haggard, fearful mien she had, rather understandable, considering the bitter circumstances, had faded, and while she was still pale, that was probably due to overwork, as she and Ginneka had to exert themselves constantly, so much so that other than Asha’s Tree, they were the priority for Shiro’s buffs, and were regularly topped up by Shaeula’s Chirurgery when she was free.

“That’s good.” she sighed, relieved. She was in a casual jumper and jeans, looking like a bored student. “I have no wish to stand out, but… while I never really celebrated the festive season in China, now I’m here… it feels depressing not to. A quiet meal and some drinks with my compatriot is enough.”

“Yeah. I can imagine.” I always felt uncomfortable with her, due to her actions and the fact we’d browbeaten her into helping out, and I still wasn’t fully sure if I was right in the decision I reached, but… never mind. No point worrying today. We’d stepped through to London, where we found Ellie waiting for us on Bermondsey Isle, along with her mother.

“Amazing. You’ve been keeping secrets, Eleanor, my dear.” Princess Diana remarked as she watched us appear in a burst of brilliant light, using the Ring Gate. “Everything is so strange and yet so… inspiring.”

“You wouldn’t be saying that during an attack by those bloody Goblins, mother…” Ellie complained, before she gazed at me warmly. “Oh, thanks for this again. Topping mother up while you did the Chirurgery was helpful. It didn’t take me too long to guide her to enter the Boundary.”

“Avalon, I thought it was called.” Diana asked, and Ellie shook her head.

“Yes, that’s what grandmother knew it as, from the old records, but… we’re using Akio’s nomenclature. To be internationally complaint. Let’s not have the old clash between Imperial and Metric repeated.”

“I see. You’ve put a lot of thought into this.” the Princess agreed, still looking around, though when her gaze settled on Nie Ling, she frowned, which made the skittish Chinese woman step back, and actually behind me, which brought a chuckle to my lips. I guess she doesn’t hate me as much as she used to, either that, or she wants to use me as a human shield.

“You’re not Japanese, are you?” Princess Diana was as perceptive as I’d heard, and her follow-up was sharp. “Chinese, I’d guess? An unusual combination, considering. Just who is she?” she asked me, perhaps seeing if I’d be honest.

“She’s… well, you could say she’s not unlike Mary Stuart.” I conceded. “She was one of the terrorists from the second Kyoto incident. It’s… complicated though. We can talk as we go.” I gestured to the Ring Gate, and they both stepped through after we did.

“That was… unpleasant.” Diana frowned, face pale, looking queasy, beads of silvery sweat appearing on her forehead. “That moment was… wrenching. But you say this is Japan?”

“Yes.” Ellie agreed, sounding as proud as if it was her Ring Gate. “We’ve moved thousands of miles in mere seconds. The world is smaller now, mother. And… it does mitigate some of my worries. Long distance relationships aren’t exactly easy. Fortunately for Akio, it’s like I’m next door!”

“I see.” Diana glanced at me, her expression screaming ‘just look at my foolish daughter. Dim but endearing, yes?’. “That is revolutionary, I agree. Now then… Miss?” She addressed Nie Ling, who had learned a decent amount of English and Japanese during the course of her enforced labour for us.

“You can call me Ling. I know you Westerners are quite informal.”

“Miss Ling it is.” Diana was personable and charming, but there was a hard edge to her eyes. “Can you tell me… what you did and how you ended up here?”

“I… never killed anyone. Not directly. And I was being menaced. It was… me or them. My soul… no, I suppose I could say spirit now…” Her tone was slightly bitter, but at least she no longer looked away from the truth. “…devoured by a monster. That said… I know what I did was evil. For me I felt it justified. Others disagree. As for my state here… I’m doing penance, trying to make amends. It’s… honest, if gruelling work, and while I don’t have full freedom, I suppose I can’t lie and say I’m treated poorly.”

“Everyone works themselves to the bone here…” Ellie snorted.

“I see. So, what do you think, Akio?” Diana asked, as we boarded a carriage in the Boundary, to take us to our mansion’s shadow here, where Nie Ling would work her magic on the two women. “Do you think your decision was the right one?”

“Do I? Gods, I have no idea. I agonised over it. I still do. I’d rather have died than send others to their deaths, but… I know in my heart-of-hearts, if those I loved were held as collateral, I would have considered their lives more precious to me than strangers. And she didn’t directly kill anyone, and cooperated when I captured her. Though without her Skills the civilian casualties would have been negligible. But… with her aid, we’ve achieved a lot, and while a life saved doesn’t balance a life cruelly ended… I have to be pragmatic and think of the future, the betterment of everyone. Justice… I’m no God, I can’t bring perfect justice, only… only the best I can.”

“I see.” Diana nodded. “It’s a conundrum indeed. You know, I campaigned to have landmines outlawed internationally. Perhaps in wartime they saved the lives of the defenders and innocent populace, fending off attackers. But in peace they kill and main women, children… I don’t think the good in landmines outweighs the bad. Likewise… opiates can save lives, but also ruin them, with addiction, poisoning… I’d just ask… what does your heart think, Akio?”

“Honestly?” I looked at the pensive Nie Ling. “I didn’t want to kill her. I killed enough of her unrepentant colleagues, and those I had to defeat without the leisure of mercy. But I do want to give that decision meaning. Let Nie Ling give her own life meaning, since it’s now bearing the weight of a thousand dead and their grieving families and friends.”

“What do you think, my dear daughter?” Diana now asked Ellie, who frowned, thinking for a moment. As the Boundary passed us by, she finally answered.

“I can see why. I… was betrayed. And I killed those I had to, for my life isn’t just my own, but Britain’s. But… one betrayal stings more than any. Sarah, that mule-headed, stubborn fool. She left me to be molested by Donovan… fortunately, I listened to you, Akio, and Shaeula was on hand, so I’ll still go to the bridal bed clean…” Ellie’s cheeks reddened.

“Don’t worry. I’m happy, obviously…” I insisted. “…but your heart would still be clean either way.”

“I know. You are rather a sentimentalist, aren’t you?” Ellie grumbled, through her tone was pleased. “My point is… even with that, and the fact her actions could have led to my death, Sir Arthur’s, David’s, and would have killed Mary-Jane and Aditi without your aid… I can’t bring myself to wish her dead. I’m not much of a Christian, even though I’m Church of England raised, of course… but there’s a quote that sticks with me. Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”

“Luke, chapter six, verse thirty-seven.” Diana agreed.

“So it is. I’m sure…” Ellie chuckled ruefully, clearly not remembering the origin.  “…my point is… vengeance and justice are two sides of a coin. We need to be sure we’re making the right choices. And… I’m not sure vengeance warms my heart. I even feel a little sorry for Donovan, though David tells me never to forgive him. Sorry, ‘never forgive that wannabe rapist little fucknugget!’ was his exact words… but then it’s not so persuasive, coming from him. Considering his own Christmas plans.”

“Mind your language.” Diana chided, and Ellie shook her head.

“Akio doesn’t mind. He and David get on rather well, all things considered. My point is… perhaps it is just to take an eye for an eye, a life for a life… but that’s the end… barring a rare miracle, such as Tsukiko, or Miss Haru. And there is no turning back that decision.”

“I see. I think… you know in your heart whether your decision was right or wrong.” Diana said at last, after considering that. “And you know too, Miss Ling.”

“Yes. I don’t feel so bitter anymore. I don’t have the right.” she lamented. “I never asked for this, but… I made poor choices. And there’s no perfect answer, I know that as well as anyone. And while I labour like a peasant in the mines… at least there’s some satisfaction to be had. I’m treated as human, which… is probably a burden to the families of the dead. I know I was used as propaganda to attack him with…” She inclined her head in my direction. “…that it would have been far easier to strip me of my power and give it to another. I just wish… things could have been different. If I was born in this land…”

“Time only flows in one direction.” I shook my head. “Anyway, this is quite the gloomy conversation for Christmas Day. So, what do you think of my Territory?” I asked Diana, who thought for a moment, before smiling.

“Very impressive. That colossal Tree, the strange beings scurrying about everywhere, so many sights, sounds and smells… besides, my daughter here gushes about it regularly.”

“I do not!” Ellie protested, though her blinking blue eyes belied that. “I just… oh, I’m not going to be shy. Yes, I know the Tower hampered our efforts, but… the work here exceeds ours. I’ll just be glad to be a kept woman, and London will benefit, all of Britain too, eventually.”

“Yeah, once Kyoto and London are done… you can relocate out David and the others, and we’ll work on complete coverage. I’ve got plans…”

Our discussion continued, until we reached our destination. Entering the private area which corresponded to the room at our mansion set apart for Arisu-san’s Room, or for me to return from the Boundary, Nie Ling gathered her strength. “Text me when you are ready to return. I don’t recommend letting my ability expire.” she warned. “Princess Eleanor should surely be fine, but… I would be wary of the effect on someone with a weak subtle body and fragile Silver Cord.”

“My thoughts exactly. But we can lengthen it with aether application, so it’ll be fine. Happy Christmas, Ling.”

“Merry Christmas to you too.” She seemed surprised at my benediction and responded slowly. “Get going!” She covered that with the use of her ability, and I also sent my Material body back, dismissing my Astral one, as I’d promised to rest all day.

“So this is Japan in truth?” Diana blinked, looking around the small room, and Ellie, equally impressed, nodded.

“It must be. It sure beats flying.”

“Just wait until we have a Ring Gate set up in every country, more in larger ones.” I promised. “The world will be small. You’ll be able to go anywhere as easy as popping down to your local pub.”

“You’re definitely half-British.” Ellie punched my shoulder playfully. “Anyway…” She took a deep breath. “Come on then. Time to mingle.”

With a grin, I opened the door, stepping out. Our home was bustling, I could see that the families of the noble girls were now here, and I could spot Arisu-san talking to my father. Mom suddenly perked up, perhaps a sixth sense guiding her. She looked over, smiling broadly, seeing me, and Ellie behind me. Her eyes widened in delight, and then she froze, mouth agape, before she rebooted, rushing over, past me, only to stop in front of Princess Diana, who seemed a little puzzled and exasperated.

“Oh my God, oh my God, ohmyohmyGOD!” mom rattled out incoherently. “Princess Diana, here in the flesh? It can’t be… wait, your daughter’s going to marry my Aki, so we’re family now! Ah… I’m so honoured, so happy… somebody pinch me… wait, I don’t want to wake up…”

As my mom exploded, I glanced at Ellie, who was watching her own mother shake hands with my mom who was pumping both arms enthusiastically, looking both amused and bemused. She merely rolled her eyes, before stepping forward.

“It’s wonderful to meet you in the flesh.” She curtsied perfectly, drawing all eyes. “So… can you please calm down a bit? Mother and I really aren’t here to cause a fuss…”

Yeah, I don’t think there’s much chance of that. Oh well… snagging some glasses of champagne from a nearby table with aether, I readied them for Ellie and Princess Diana. All right then. Everyone’s here. So… let’s get Christmas officially started…