On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

“I’m terribly sorry about that…” mom was saying, her face flushed with embarrassment and also clearly excitement, judging by the heat in her sapphire eyes. She’d relinquished Princess Diana’s hand, though was still trembling. “I got a bit carried away.” She let out a rather fake, nervous laugh, but immediately forgot to pretend to be chastened. “It’s just… you’re Princess Diana! Princess of Hearts! I looked up to you so much growing up. Everyone did! And you’re here now, in my house…”

“You know…” Ellie turned to me, a bemused expression on her face, though she briefly glanced down at Tsurugi, who had come barrelling towards me the moment I’d arrived, clinging onto my arm and sulking that I’d left her today, even though it was only for a short time. “…I’m feeling rather hurt, and I shouldn’t be, I know that…”

“Don’t worry. My mom’s going to smother you with affection soon enough, more than you’ll want, trust me. Be careful what you wish for…” I joked. Taking a sip of champagne with my free hand, I watched the chaos, Ellie beside me.

“There’s really no need to make such a fuss…” Diana tried to calm mom down. “I’m not here in any official capacity, just as… a mother to my daughter.”

“I know!” mom squealed, making me wince. “That’s what makes it even better!”

“Please, Emily, do calm down!” Father was here too, and I exchanged a wry glance with him, something I’d never have imagined just a few months prior. However, things have certainly changed, and mom… she’s always been a free spirit, but…

“I am deeply sorry that you have to be subjected to this.” My father’s English was perfect, after years of practice. “Princess, Emily is simply… overawed. I too lived in Britain for a while, so am more than aware of your stellar reputation and celebrity status.”

Diana let out a charming laugh, probably used to such scenes. “I do understand, but… is being a Princess so special? I’d say…” Her own eyes, of a pretty blue matching Eleanor’s, scanned the room. Mae was sharing sake with Motoko’s family, Haanōbō and Arangbō, their wings clearly visible, while Yukiko was talking to Hinata, her brother and Shaeula, Anna with them, her weaselkin form standing out amongst the sea of guests. “…in this room alone, I’m just a woman. There’s no need for awe. In fact…”

“Yes?” Mom was still struggling to contain her glee.

“…I think that in light of my daughter’s past actions, being too considerate is only going to trouble us.” Diana gave her most winning smile, and beside me, Ellie grimaced.

“It’s true.” she agreed. “Though we’ve put it behind us. Nobody enjoys raking up the same old apologies over and over again. Besides…” Ellie downed her champagne to fortify her bravery. “…I know enough to understand it’s simply a matter of… of acceptance, my dear new mother-in-law.” Ellie held out her free hand, upon which sparkled the ring I had given her. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet in the flesh. Grandmother is only sorry she couldn’t make the trip, but she extends Britain’s full hospitality back towards one of its prodigal daughters.”

Mom reached out, taking Ellie’s hand and shaking it, though with a little more decorum than she did Diana’s. “No, the pleasure is all mine, Eleanor! Oh, I can hardly stand it, my son, engaged to the daughter of the Princess of Hearts. You know, you’re so brave and dignified! I watch all your public appearances now!”

“I wouldn’t… go that far. I have a lot to learn when it comes to leadership…” Ellie was embarrassed. “Still, I feel relieved to know that Akio will be supporting me, and…” She nodded towards the crowd. “…that I’ll not be alone. I didn’t see it before, but… there’s comfort in numbers.”

As the two talked, my father apologised again to Diana, bowing deeply. “Sorry. My Emily was not always like this. A free spirit, charming and amicable, always, but not so… so…” He exchanged a glance with me, our matching grey eyes seeing the same things.

“…hyperactive? Flighty? No, neither quite fits…” I grinned. “What do you think, Tsurugi?” I humoured the little Tsukumogami, and she screwed up her face, thinking, before coming up with an answer, eyes wide.

“Explosive?”

“Oh, a good answer.” I sent the glass I was holding away with aether, then patted her head, and she nuzzled me like a cat. “Yeah, mom’s just overflowing with explosive happiness now. So please don’t be offended.”

“I am hardly offended.” Diana tittered politely. “If anything, we should be grateful for such a warm welcome. I obviously still have many concerns, but… talking to you has alleviated some of them.” Diana’s eyes were taking me in as if seeing my very spirit. “You struggle with what is right, but… you do let your heart guide you. I’d rather a man who makes well-intentioned mistakes than someone who lets absolute righteousness guide him. The road to Hell…”

“Is paved with good intentions. I know that one.” I sighed theatrically. “Don’t I know it? But I can tell you this… if there is a road to Hell, Ellie will never walk it. That’s my role.”

“I see. How reassuring.” Diana nodded. “I know you Japanese are rather a formal people, but you’ve lived in Britain, you say, so…”

“Yes, Taichi will be fine.” Father understood. “I still struggle with dropping the formalities, despite being married to such a… free spirit… but I have to change with the times.” He bowed again, but it wasn’t the deep, formal Japanese one, just inclining his head in acknowledgement. “Our family is… chaotic. Aiko takes after Emily and causes us… trouble…” He stared at me, and I once more felt the purikura picture burning in my pocket like a hot coal, and I wondered just what father knew, or thought, of my sis and her mental anguish of late. “…but she’s a kind girl, and will be good to your daughter, I have no doubts. As for my son…” My father sighed, though there was relief in it. “…I had figured he was just rebellious and rather too content to fade into the background, but… opportunity and adversity changes a man. I grew up when my parents passed and I made my living abroad, but… I was only truly a man when I became a husband, a provider.”

“Father must be a great man then….” Tsurugi declared happily, stretching out her free arm as wide as she could, even childishly expanding her fingers as far as she could reach. “…this great, as we have lots of mothers!”

My father coughed, embarrassed, but unable to resist the childish innocence of Tsurugi, he nodded. “It seems so. I apologise once again, Princess. To think your daughter would be… just one of many. I understand how insulting it must seem, but…”

“It’s not ordinary.” she agreed. Mom was hitting it off very well with Ellie, and had dragged over Eri and Natsumi, as well as the quiet Daiyu, and they were talking furiously about all sorts of things, mainly the rings.

“My stone’s red with green sparkles…” Natsumi was saying, tapping the core of the ring containing Foehn. “…I don’t exactly get why, but apparently it’s to do with the nature of our spirits? Connected via Lovers’ Link?”

“Maybe it’s a Tsumura Style issue? Motoko’s is the inverse, isn’t it? Green with red, and they resemble your weapons.” Eri pointed out.

“Yours is pretty, black with little sparkles like stars…” Natsumi countered. “Regardless, they match the jewels. Akio must have struggled to pick them out. Yours is beautiful too, Eleanor.”

“Aki has enough guts to deal with everyone!” mom insisted, still fawning over Ellie. “Your ring is beautiful too. If my son can’t even come up with a dozen or so different rings, he’ll never manage married life!”

As they laughed, my father grimaced, clearly feeling ashamed. “Not ordinary indeed, but… Akio will do right by her. You will, I know it.” he told me, half pleading.

“Of course I will. I may have many shortcomings still, but I promise you this, Princess…”

“Drop the formalities. You don’t think I make Melissa call me ‘Princess’, do you?”

“I guess not.” I agreed. “Then let me be firm, Diana, my future mother-in-law… once I make a decision, I stick by it, and once I offer someone a place in my heart, they’ll forever be mine, to be protected and sheltered, and helped to grow. Ellie won’t have to be alone, and what she cares about, I’ll care about, and what she wants to protect, I’ll see protected, a goal she wants to achieve shall be a goal I’ll work toward with her, and… her family is my family. That’s all there is to say.”

“Quite the declaration, but a welcome one. It’s not normal, it’s not conventional, but… I walked a strange land on the way here, and I already know the trials Eleanor has been facing. And even here…” She once more took in our Fae and Yōkai guests. “So long as my daughter is safe and happy, I’ll be content, and her father, and my mother-in-law, the Queen, think the same. Henry too. Richard is a bit more… hesitant, but he agrees it is best for his sister. Sisters can be trouble, can’t they?” She winked at me, and I wondered what Ellie had told her.

“Yeah, they certainly can.” I held in a chuckle. “They certainly can. But worth every moment of annoyance.”

“You always were overprotective.” My father shook his head. “She’ll need to spread her wings sooner or later.”

“She knows that now. But I don’t mind making sure she’s always got a perch to come home to.” I continued the metaphor. “And though the world is dangerous now, she’ll be strong enough to stride through it, shaping the future. As will Ellie.”

“In that case, welcome to Japan, and our… I was going to say humble home, but thanks to my son and his efforts, our new home is anything but. It is quite a chastening experience, to be supported by one’s son. But I suppose it vindicates us as parents, despite our flaws…” Father had an expression I rarely saw on his serious face, one of amused contemplation.

“If our children grow up better than we did, then yes, we’ve succeeded.” Diana agreed. “Especially when they’ll have to face troubles we never did, and never dreamed of. Still…” Her smile was suddenly bright and slightly cheeky, as she reached out, patting my father on the arm consolingly. “The Princess Eleanor Free Hospital? Quite the surprise. It seems he’s very much trying to curry favour with me. Wise. Mothers-in-law can be quite troublesome, can’t we?”

As my father agreed, he had an idea. “Speaking of, I should introduce you to some of the others. If you have worries, Hana is the woman to speak to. She is… at peace with the fact her daughter is no longer Akio’s only love, but still finds it a challenge to deal with. You surely will find common ground. And her English is also excellent, as you would expect. After all, we raised Eri bilingually.”

“I see. In that case, lead on. I am curious to speak to the others, and with my daughter in your wife’s tender care… perhaps a break, before she turns her attention back to me? I’m here not to be a bother, honestly.” Diana suggested, and my father agreed. I took one last look at mom, enjoying being the centre of a group of her soon-to-be daughters, and smiled. Yeah, she’s got swept up in the moment, but soon she’ll remember Diana’s here. For now… I tightened my grip on Tsurugi, and followed them into the crowd, quickly gathering a group of orbiters. …it’s Christmas. I should mingle and enjoy myself…

***

“If you could act naturally.” Arisu-san was saying, holding up an expensive video camera. “That would be appreciated. Obviously this…” She tapped the camera with one painted fingernail. Crimson… it suits her. “…despite being cutting edge in the handheld market, is no comparison to a proper setup, and the background noise will still be playing havoc with the sound mixing, but… that is authentic. Genuine home footage, the sort families around the world will simply devour and crave more of.”

“That’s fine, but… don’t forget to enjoy the party, Arisu-chan!” Suzu, who was working as her assistant, insisted. “It’s Christmas, after all.”

“Oh, do not worry, Suzanne-san.” she countered, as she filmed Diana, auntie Hana, my mom, who had barely calmed down after about an hour, Yukiko, Tsukiko and Ellie, all having an earnest conversation about weddings. Natsumi’s mother had joined them, and even had some samples of fabrics, and they were cooing about wedding dresses and suits for the male relatives.

“I am only intending brief interludes, showing the world how Oshiro Moonstone Akio…” The slight smirk when saying my middle name was unmistakable. “…and his extended family celebrates together. Human interest. Propaganda can indeed be fought with propaganda, but like fighting fire with fire, you usually only end up with a conflagration with endless hunger. No…” She clicked her tongue, dispensing wisdom, as she glanced over at the TV. I followed her gaze, trying not to wince. Eri, Aiko, Hinata and many of the others were watching, pointing and laughing.

“…far better to instead counter cries of evil and chaos with a different, far humbler, family-orientated world. Besides, celebrity gossip is the beloved manna of the masses, as you should well know, Suzanne-san.”

“Oh, I do. Idol scandals are brutal. It’s why this Suzu is clean as a whistle, no casting couches, favours to managers or hidden boyfriends. Besides…” She giggled, winking at me and making victory signs with her fingers. “Any guy who tries to woo me has to meet your approval, right, big bro?”

“You’re free to find love, Suzu, but yeah… I’ll certainly be vetting him to make sure he’s not going to mistreat you. And if he does…”

“Be still my heart.” Suzu giggled harder, playing with the ribbons and tinsel in her hair drills. “This is… nice. Festive. No need to dress up and play a part, to look good in the community. It was all so damn false, anyway. You’re doing more charity than my parents ever did, and for better reasons.” She paused, realising she had soured the mood a little. Tilting her head in a calculated display of innocence, she grabbed Tsurugi’s hand. “Come on, let’s go play with your big sisters, and watch Akio-kun on TV, yeah? We’ll grab the boss too. Come join us when you’re done, Arisu-chan!”

Tsurugi protested a little, but Suzu had soon peeled her off me, leaving me with Arisu-chan. “Sorry, I hope it wasn’t an imposition asking you here today…”

At my apology, she shook her head. For once, she didn’t look particularly imposing, though her black eyes were sharp as ever. “Hardly. I was at a loose end. I… suppose… I could have visited my parents, but… I daresay you can imagine how it is. Japan is an extremely conservative country. This here gathering is an absolute miracle. As for my… so-called crimes…”

I winced. “Your parents didn’t take it well?”

“Of course not. Even ‘if’…” Her laugh was cynical and bitter. “…I was innocent, I had still brought shame to my parents. The gossip and mockery ‘stung’, so they said. As if the betrayals I faced did not.”

I decided to listen as she continued filming the party. Fortunately the camera was designed to not take in sound from behind so we could speak freely.

“They suggested I disappeared from the public eye, though I had already planned that, so that the scandal could be forgotten. And also disappear from their circle. They used to boast about me, you know. Their beautiful actress daughter, Hollywood waiting in the wings, international fame and A-list success beckoning. And suddenly I was their dirty little secret. Theft, bullying, drugs… even innocence was no defence. If they even thought I was. They said so, but I only trust deeds, not words.”

“In that case, I’m glad you chose to spend time with us.” I insisted. “And you can trust that whatever happens, I’ll always listen to you should you get into trouble. After all, without your help, none of this…” I gestured to the crowded party. “…would have been possible. But even if you weren’t of much use, like poor Kikuchi Shuta-san…” I felt a bit sorry for him, but his daughter Maiko-chan assured me he was happier just being a small, harmless provider of ether via his Territory and helping out in battle when occasionally called upon. Not everyone has grand ambitions. Though it might come to him having to relocate his Territory at some point, to secure an egress to another country…

“…you’re still our friend. So don’t worry. Betrayal is one thing we all agree is vile.”

“Quite.” Arisu-san agreed after a moment of contemplative silence. “I think that is enough for now.” She switched off the camera. “The footage is interesting, but I feel myself having worked up a thirst.” In her elegant black jeans and red jumper dress she still seemed festive, despite the bold colour scheme. Snagging several glasses of champagne from a passing maid (weaselkin, just to add to the cosmopolitan nature of the party) she passed me one, before taking a sip. “We should take a seat. It is true, I am not here entirely to work, but to… unwind, I suppose.”

We ended up sitting beside Shinkume-no-Hana, who was flushed with drunkenness, despite her Yōkai constitution. She was also watching the TV, and seeing what was on, I grimaced.

“That’s footage from Britain…” I mused, and Hana barked a laugh.

“Indeed. I have just about understood the mechanisms of these new mortal toys. Fascinating. The world has moved on. We will have to adapt or perish. Just as before. I am quite the fighter, and stronger now…” She cradled her fifth tail lovingly. “…but even I am not indestructible. And while the Yōkai are numberless in these lands… the Hyakki Yagyō itself is not. Of course, I dare say Great Nurarihyon would not be fazed nor halted by your weapons… but what victory is only a handful living in a shattered, empty world?”

She giggled charmingly, seeming younger. “Who would brew the sake? Who would make these delightful… canapés, are they?” She scooped up a handful of the snacks, chewing happily. When she swallowed, she giggled again. “No, we must adapt, integrate. As we are doing through you. Trade… peaceful alignment of interests. Though…” She narrowed her eyes, suddenly tense. “I fear some Yōkai will be unfit for this new world. Many can change, or have natures that, while they seem inimical to humans, are actually rather… easy to get along with. Take our muscle-headed pair of Oni, Red and Blue. Quick to anger, quicker to resort to violence, but… equally as quick to forgive, and moved by booze, good food and even, dare I say it, honour.”

She then called out. “Our two Tengu… come hither, you pair!”

Hither? She’s definitely drunk, trying to sound more refined…

At her words, Arangbō turned. Obviously as he was still wearing the usual crimson long-nosed mask of his kind, I couldn’t say for certain, but I felt he was grinning. With a chuckle, he prodded his white-winged younger sister, who let out a sulky growl, before they strode over, exchanging greetings with family as they passed.

“What do you need, Kitsune?” Arangbō asked, clearly enjoying himself in this unfamiliar situation.

“Oh, just a little… chat.” She smirked, her eyes glittering wickedly. “About us Yōkai. Is it not simply wonderful, this miracle? Grandmother dearest remembers when we roamed the same world as mortals freely, though… it was before my time, alas.”

“Great Tarōbō also remembers.” Arangbō agreed. “As for this? I enjoy it. I enjoy little Haanōbō’s reactions more.” With a smirk he pressed his hand on her back, pushing her to sit down next to me, Arisu-san making room. As she folded her white wings, Haanōbō let out an exasperated sigh.

“We are all dear siblings here… though we are missing one. She who will be Autumn West, Chosen of Byakko.” He glanced over at where my sis was enjoying herself, pointing at pictures of Ellie and me in London on the TV. Ellie was being polite, but her face was red. “How goes her efforts?”

“She was getting a bit overwhelmed, but she’ll do it. For herself.” I promised. “It’ll be nice though, keeping it all in the family.”

Arisu-san pursed her lips at that, and Hana let out a hearty laugh.

“Oh, indeed. Though it takes no sage to know your words annoy dear little Haanōbō here.” Her tails flailed as if to emphasise her point. “The Tengu in the Parade are strong, but Tarōbō’s brood are mighty. Perhaps a Number challenge? Not to the death, of course, we are past such barbarity… if not such idiocy.” She glanced over at Shaeula and Anna, mingling happily, Shaeula of course rather drunk, even before dinner. “A shame that Urakaze could not attend today. That would have been charming, but the Parade roams where it will. Still, we have a Kamaitachi here in Shaeula, Tengu, Kitsune… a veritable miracle, yes?” She addressed Arisu-san. “A very… worthy one, to spread to your popularity, yes?”

“Definitely.” she agreed, amused. “I must say, as Christmas celebrations go, it is not too terrible, in fact, even compared to industry gatherings, I am finding myself far more relaxed…”

“I should hope so!” Shiro appeared from behind, ruffling my hair playfully. “After all, you’re among friends, Arisu. Strange friends, but better that than fair enemies, yeah?” Shiro leaned over, resting her chest on my head playfully. “So, you were making a point, Nebisuki, I couldn’t help but hear you.”

“Yes, I was. About foolishness.” Shinkume-no-Hana agreed. “While none would challenge to the death currently, there are certainly those who think that the little daughter of Urakaze is a paper tiger… or perhaps we should say weasel.” She grinned wickedly. “So she might have to be a little firm with them, to get her point across. And perhaps one or two… far be it from me to mock my fellow Hundred Demons, but they might be better off removed entirely in such struggles, to make the future you all seek smoother.”

“A bit of a grim topic, that.” Shiro snorted. “But yeah, Tan’s not one to shy away from a necessary pruning now and then. That aside… not bad, Aki. This isn’t even WTV and you’re all over the news. You’ve been a busy boy today…”

“No kidding.” I agreed, remembering all my dates, and all the effort and crafting during the run-up to them. “Worth it though.”

“You are a dangerous man…” Arisu-san chuckled, now in good humour, tapping the stem of her champagne flute rhythmically with one long, polished fingernail. “Honesty, capability and naivety all wrapped up into one package.”

“Hey now, no hitting on Aki, Arisu! You’re the last woman I want to battle for his affections!”

As Arangbō let out a stream of laughter, Arisu-san rolled her eyes, an unguarded gesture. “I think you know me well enough to understand I am not in the market for love right now, White. Besides, I was talking about our little white-winged sister here.” Arisu-san’s black eyes watched her critically, and Haanōbō glanced away, her yellow eyes wavering. “He is a meddler, though he means well. How do you feel?”

“Annoyed.” Haanōbō spoke at last. “Frustrated. I was trodden into the filthy mud, my face laid bare, and yet… how is it that I was given more care, more respect, than from Fungbō, my traitorous, true-blooded brother? And you cannot just declare me your sister, or win that through right of conquest!”

“Aki does that a lot, don’t sweat it.” Shiro teased unhelpfully. “It’s not like he can make everyone his lover, so instead… sister or even daughter…” She smirked over at Tsurugi and her sisters, who were playing with Aine and Suzu. “…it’s an honour, really. Though you miss out on a few perks…”

“Do not be so crass, White. Not everyone is as… infatuated… as you.” Arisu-san chided. “Though I agree with her sentiments. Friendship can be won through force of arms, yet not… not kinship.”

“Not true, not true at all.” Arangbō boomed, loud enough to interrupt other nearby conversations. All eyes upon us, he at least moderated his tone. “We Tengu, as many Yōkai… are beings who respect the authority of might. You trespassed, yet defeated my little sister, trampled on her might and pride.”

Haanōbō’s folded wings twitched at that, as did her face, the long nose of her mask swaying, but she wisely held her silence.

“I wouldn’t put it quite that way.” I disagreed.

“The mud on her face and wings disputes that.” Arangbō boomed, downing from his mug of beer cheerfully. “Now then… you then impressed Great Tarōbō, our august father, and earned the right to aid us with our… troubles.”

“And then two brothers were lost.” Haanōbō huffed.

“It seems to me that is rather unfair.” Arisu-san remarked. “I am an expert in treachery and betrayal…” Her tone was bitter. “No, a wretched traitor only keeps his peace due to lack of opportunity. Be thankful that Akio-san was there to be the trigger, else when you were imperilled, a less charitable opponent gifts you your end, or claims you far more… unpleasantly.”

“Shit, you sure you aren’t interested in Aki, Arisu? You’re being mighty complimentary of him today… damn, I was just joking.” At her flat glare, Shiro held up her hands. “My bad, my bad. Let me grab you all something stronger. There’s some Fae brandy knocking about somewhere…” As Shiro scurried off, Arangbō agreed with Arisu-san.

“Yet the Flame and our duty was saved. And brother here…” Arango pounded on my back happily. “…is a man of his word and does not back down. He declared you were his, sister, and that we would kiss the ground too for our unkindness towards you. And touch the ground we all did, one by one. Even our father could not escape such a fate. So father decreed it. His claim is true. Do you dispute it, sister Haanōbō?”

“I can hardly do that.” She shook her head, long violet hair falling against me. “It pains me, but… you and the Kitsune speak the truth. We… I… respect might. And great Tarōbō declares we shall have new siblings, he and his sister. The Directions, Byakko and Suzaku, Autumn and Summer, cannot go unheralded…” Her yellow gaze flitted to me now, and I remembered her face, now again hidden. Yes, she’s beautiful, despite her rather impressive nose. Somehow her face was still in harmony, an avian charm…

“…I still feel so… frustrated, annoyed.” She drank deep of her liquor, and her wings dipped, as her tone was fatigued. “Yet… I expect he does not understand why.”

“Oh, he probably does.” Hana chuckled, enjoying the chaos. “And you are far from alone here in being bitter. After all, I had to listen to my precious gifted comb be used to groom grandmother’s many tails, while mine…” She put on a sad mien, touching her own bushy tails. “…grow knots and tangles. My body may be a fruit well tasted, though not as much as the slanderous of the Parade such as Urakaze would have you think, but my heart and spirit are but a pure, lonely maiden’s… after all, we who reach a pinnacle of power are only beholden to our own designs. We are remade as we wish and our strength demands. Even setting myself aside…” She winked playfully. “…your little meetings earlier, how many did you dismiss? Their wants, their desires…”

“I think we should change the subject. This is Christmas, not Valentine’s Day…” I tactfully retreated, but Shiro, on her return, laughed.

“Bad move, Aki. That was as good as a promise.” She handed out glasses and started pouring a rich amber liquid for everyone. “Kanpai! Cheers!” We clinked glasses, and after downing it, Shiro grinned.

“That hits the spot. You know, I’m starting to see what a real Christmas with family is like.” She then tapped Haanōbō’s shoulder. “And we all agreed we are family. Arisu, you’re an older sister I never had. Don’t get me wrong, I love Hina and Aimi, but… you were the first I could trust with everything, even my life. So… you’re family too. However you want to be. And family helps one another. So… I’ve got your back, girl.”

“What of my back?” Hana complained, and Shiro snorted mockingly.

“I’m not kicking your ass to the curb, am I? Us White’s…” Shiro, not usually very tactile, surprised us by hugging Haanōbō from behind. “…have to have each other’s backs. Besides, you’re old enough and well-tasted enough…” Shiro couldn’t resist a dig. “…to solve your own problems.”

“That is fair. And I am in no rush. Life here is pleasant…” Hana agreed, lifting her own glass of brandy. “To family, both found and conquered.”

“A curious toast, but… sure. Happy Christmas!” I agreed, clinking glasses with the others. “To family, and those who are yet can’t be here with us.” Lin, Rose, sister Valkyries… I hope you’re well this day…

***

Another hour had passed, as I flitted between the revellers. The amount of alcohol we’d drunk between us would have led to casualties and ambulances in ordinary times, but there were few here without enhanced constitutions, and Ether Healing was readily available, and my sis, with Eyes freshly (rather too freshly) donated by Christina, was more than capable and trustworthy enough to do a purge of others’ drunkenness.

“So, how are you holding up, Minoru-kun?” I asked Sakura’s young brother, who gave me a shy, hero-worshipping smile, which made Hinata’s brother Hiroto-san, chuckle.

“He’s okay, my cousin.” Hiroto-san promised. “Like me, he’s working on it. I’m still waiting for my reward for mastering earth element though.”

“You’ll get the reward of being shunted off to Kana’s construction projects if you don’t reel in your big head!” Hinata warned, browbeating her older brother with practised ease. Beside her stood Sakura, resplendent in a modest yet beautiful black gown with white and gold highlights. She smiled shyly at me, and I noticed her Adamant insignia was attached to her waist.

“Yeah, Sakura’s already getting in good habits.” Hinata agreed proudly, barely letting anyone else get in a word edgeways, which made her grandfather, Kenji-kun, chuckle happily, as he looked on over his extended family. He’d been dragged off to talk to Eri and Kana earlier and had come back declaring having so many granddaughters was enough to keep him living another hundred years.

“She’s got her uniform and weapons with her at all times. In fact…” Hinata hugged Minoru-kun, who squirmed, as annoyed by her affection as only young boys could be. “…if you want to see superheroes, Sakura was a splendid one, standing in line with all the others. After all, a superhero, a Valkyrie, has to have a costume, right? Brand marketing at its finest!”

“Somehow, I feel a little ashamed of my daughter…” Hinata’s mother Kokoro-san spoke to her sister-in-law, Sakura’s mother Keiko-san. “…she’s treating everything as some sort of… business.”

“Oh, don’t be like that.” Kenji-kun snorted. “That’s because my granddaughter’s a genius. She’d be utterly wasted on one of those fops from the Fifty-Eight, worse on one of the Three-Hundred.”

“I resent that remark…” Hiroto-san chuckled, sipping at his champagne.

“I bet you do. But you’re not quite as useless as most of them.” Kenji-kun muttered, drawing winces from Kokoro-san, Keiko-san and Hinata’s father, Minato-san. “If the nobility isn’t careful, Akio-kun here’s going to snatch up every pretty flower they hold dear. If not for marriage, then for this Adamant…”

Sakura looked down, blushing, but quickly regained her poise. “I was a fool. I did not realise what Hinata, what Miyu-sama…”

“Miyu…” Hinata corrected, and Sakura’s blush deepened, even as she patted her brother gently on the shoulder.

“Miyu then… it still feels strange. I do not know where the world I knew went… but knowing what we fight against… I am resolved. Mother… I will fight, and I will do whatever Hinata, whatever Akio… needs of me. If that is being a figurehead, a dress-up doll, I shall be one with fangs.” She glanced over to where Motoko and Natsumi were enjoying a conversation with Ellie and Hyacinth, perhaps reminiscing about their first meeting in London. “It seems Motoko-sama and Natsumi-sama…”

“I’ve told you, Sakura, we’re all family…” Hinata complained, and Sakura sighed, though oddly enough, despite her red face, she seemed happy, and I noticed her mother frowning, seemingly perplexed.

“All the more reason to be utterly respectful when talking of combat. Natsumi is no mere bodyguard, but a fierce warrior and my senior. If we were… talking privately, then yes, I would indeed be informal, as befits… family.” She glanced around. “I must say, Hinata, Minoru, this is an… impressive gathering. It is chaotic, but it is also very… friendly. Besides…” Her lips curled into a cheeky smile. “…in terms of dignitaries, I fear that even a celebration at Fujiwara-sama’s or Ichijou-sama’s mansions cannot compete.”

“Oh, Miyu and Honoka would be here if we asked. But we thought that would be disrespectful to Fujiwara-sama, let him have some fun with his granddaughters. As for Mayumi…” Hinata held up her phone. “I’ve been sending her pictures, it’s fun annoying her! Later we’ll get one with Eleanor, Yukiko, Princess Kaoruko and Prince Hodahito. That’ll make her jealous! She wants to be at the centre of anything that’s fun. Though unlike you, Sakura… she hasn’t realised personal strength is important. She still wants to be protected, by me, by Akio… but when she finally realises that the greatest joy is being a protector, not one protected, then she’ll have the right to be here. Minoru-kun gets it…” Hinata giggled, teasing her young cousin.

“It’s a shame Hideaki-kun can’t move with the times, and be here to see Sakura-chan blooming, becoming a bright young woman.” Kenji-kun complained. “I know pride comes as standard with you nobility, especially from one of the Three Great Houses… but it’s only great because of Hinata’s work now… oh, that was rude of me, Sakura-chan, Keiko-chan.”

“It’s fine.” Keiko-san sighed. “He’s… just not free to do much but read. He won’t watch the news anymore, and my own house has told me if I want to get a divorce I can, and return without shame, but… I am a Takatsukasa, even if by marriage. And I’ll see my daughter, my son and indeed you too, Hinata-chan… and you, Akio-kun… happy.”

“I am happy, mother!” Minoru-kun declared stoutly, sensing her discomfort and wanting to console her. He was still wearing toy versions of some of Ixitt’s weapons we’d given him for Christmas gifts, and he was delighted by them as only a young boy could be by fancy plastic and aluminium swords and guns. “I agree with my sister and Hinata-chan! I’ll be a superhero and protect you too! Although…” his young face became downcast. “There’s an awful lot of homework. I thought being a hero would be more… exciting! I read and I study and learn… sometimes my head spins.”

“Ah, I get you, little scamp.” Hiroto-san chuckled, ruffling his hair playfully. “It’s a bit of a drag, but… results come if you try hard.” He let out a small ruby burst of earth element, a small, polished stone appearing and then turning to dust. “If you’re going to get superpowers, you’ve got to understand them first, otherwise you’ll just be weak, and maybe even hurt yourself or others.”

“I know. And I’ll do it!” Minoru-kun promised.

“So, the important thing is…” Hinata giggled, showing off her ring, the centrepiece a shimmering diamond flickering with metallic shades of copper, silver, gold and platinum. “…what do you think of my ring? Beautiful, isn’t it? Functional too.” She winked, a faint flicker of yellow light shimmering. “I know Kazumi is a bit forlorn, as she doesn’t think she’s strong enough to protect me right now. I bet Sayuri’s feeling down too, yeah?”

Sakura nodded. “She feels rather dreadful. She followed me into Adamant, but… as my bodyguard and… I suppose, my friend…”

“Yeah. That’s one thing that Motoko and Natsumi really showed us the way on. Our bodyguards aren’t just that, but they are our dear friends too…” Hinata agreed, as did I.

“Yes. That makes it worse though.” Sakura took a deep breath, and then turned to me. Hinata’s cousin was extremely pretty, like most noble daughters, but there was a faintly frail, tragic air to her at times. The pressure of competing with Mayumi-chan, Hinata, Miyu and Honoka with a house on the verge of collapse for so long, perhaps?

“I would like to thank you for seeing us as family, when we have done nothing but trouble you and Hinata…” her words were denied by Hinata, but I waved her to silence, sensing Sakura was about to say something important. Grateful, Sakura pressed on. “This party, and doubtless the meal to come, feels very warm… I am happy, and…” She made the Adamant salute. “…I am also content. It might be seen as improper for a noble daughter to fight, yet… I feel we should lead by example, as we do in culture.”

Hinata nodded, agreeing, and Sakura then bowed deeply before me. “So, as one of your humble soldiers, Valkyries, I have no right to ask, but…” She then straightened, looking me directly in my eyes, her brown ones earnest, and her smile was now a different one, bold, reminding me of Hinata. Yeah, they’re definitely cousins. “…as your family, surely you can give me a favour, big brother?”

I froze for a moment, contemplating her sudden attack, and Hinata burst out laughing.

“Critical hit, as Shiro would say. I like your new slyness, Sakura! You’ve always been too strait-laced.”

“But he is my relative. Unless you are planning on withdrawing your engagement?” Sakura’s words made Hinata freeze this time, and before she could splutter a disagreement, Sakura took my hand.

“I know you have given me much already, but it is Christmas. A time of giving. So… please, I implore you. Sayuri needs… and I am sure Kazumi does as well… a chance to be strong enough to feel like our protectors again. I want them to have a life outside of being our guards, but… Natsumi-sama, even now would never declare her service ended, even as Motoko-sama’s sister in marriage. Can you do that? Give them hope and a happy life? To do so would be to make Hinata and I happy too.”

“You know, I think I can.” I squeezed her hand, and though the touch of a man embarrassed her, she didn’t let go. “Honestly, everyone will get their chance, but I know what you mean. Sometimes it’s not about the end result, but the journey. It is Christmas, so sure. I’ll do something about them, don’t worry. I was thinking the ninja sisters might be of more use too, though I want to see their hidden village first. Leave it with me, and once Pilgrimage starts again I’ll give Sayuri-san and Kazumi-san some attention.”

“Thank you, my new brother.” Sakura smiled prettily. “I know it is very poor manners to speak of return gifts, especially between family, but rest assured, I am far from ungrateful. Not like my dear cousin.” She surprised us all by winking at Hinata, who burst out laughing.

“Sure, I’ll let you get away with that, since I resented you and fought you at every turn for years, but to Akio I’m only ever a loving, generous woman!”

Watching them bicker like good friends, or indeed, like cousins, I turned to Kenji-kun, her jovial grandfather, who snorted, well pleased. “This is a fine way to spend Christmas. It’s good manners to offer to rotate the hosting duties, but you know what?” he suggested, eyes twinkling with mischief.

“Do enlighten me…” I asked dryly, and he raised a finger meaningfully.

“…I’m not sure with the way things are going that I’d be able to house or afford the festivities.” At that teasing declaration, the adults around us seemed sympathetic. “Besides…” he finished. “Your parents are doing such a wonderful job, it’d be a shame to rob them of the honours.”

No kidding… Seeing the managed chaos, I had to shake my head. I think my mom would insist anyone pries the privilege out of her cold, dead hands…

***

“I am so very glad I made the effort to attend, dear Yukiko.” Princess Kaoruko giggled charmingly. She was wearing a very dignified set of charcoal trousers, matching jacket and cream, ruffled shirt. “After all, it’s hardly every day I get to meet you, Princess Diana.”

“Simply Diana, please, Princess Takahime. Though if you must be formal, I’m not so culturally insensitive as to insist. After all, my daughter is marrying a Japanese man. Half, at least.” Diana and Ellie seemed more relaxed now, as mom had to leave them to start preparing for dinner. The first course was a mixture of Eastern and Western cuisine, and fairly normal to our British guests, but the main dinner… lucky we’re having turkey, pork and beef too…

“If we’re being informal, as we should…” Princess Kaoruko insisted charmingly. “Please, use my true name, not my Imperial name. Call me Kaoruko, and also drop the honorifics. That goes for you too, Akio. We are family, aren’t we, my dear, fortunate cousin Yukiko?”

“I suppose we are.” Yukiko grimaced, though she wasn’t displeased. “I’m not sure whether to feel relieved I have a fellow Princess to support me, or jealous that I don’t measure up.”

“Relieved, please!” Ellie insisted. “It’s not like we don’t have the same worries. Though I do suppose yours might be a little more problematic…”

“You don’t say.” Prince Hodahito was frowning. He too was in a similar attire to Kaoruko, dark slacks and jacket, though his shirt was a blue shade. “I had no delusions of becoming Emperor, just as my sister would never be the Priestess of Ise…”

“Thank Amaterasu for that!” She waved a hand in relief. “What a mess that would be, since you received his blessing, Yukiko. I’d not have the face to do anything but hide myself away were it to happen! Unfortunately, cousin Gorohito… is a bit reckless.”

“Yes. Honestly, his conduct was a disgrace.” Diana’s tone was dangerous, as she looked out over Tsurugi, who, despite her earlier clingy behaviour, was enjoying herself without me. All the adults fawned on her and Aine, which was cute, and they were both enjoying gathering treats from others. Keomi-chan too. It’s both impressive and worrisome how well she inveigles herself into the younger group and gets treated like a kid…

“How can anyone be here…” She glanced around at the non-humans, Shaeula, her sister, Mae and Hana, Hyacinth and Asha, the Tengu, and of course Tsurugi and her Tsukumogami sisters, as well as Azuki, who was being dragged around by Aine. “…and say that the sword is not a person, not a girl. Even seeing a little of the Territory of this land, as Akio calls it… there is civilisation. I have campaigned to eliminate the abuse and exploitation of young women for slave labour and marriage. This was somehow as vile.”

“It’s a difficult one to fathom, mother.” Ellie interjected. “It’s easy to see others not like ourselves as lesser, not human. And I’m not proud of some of my actions in the Boundary. Of course, I’m not…” she shuddered with remembered disgust, and my hand sought hers. Seeing that, Yukiko’s face showed her own displeasure, so I ended up taking her hand too, much to Kaoruko’s obvious amusement.

“…saying I regret killing those buggers with the red hats and the black hats. Vile little bastards. Do you know they smear their arrows with shit, those Goblins? And the breath of those pony-sized hounds reeks.”

Kaoruko and Prince Hodahito choked at that.

“Language, daughter. We’re in good company!” Diana chided, but Ellie shook her head, braid bouncing.

“Maybe so, but you understand, don’t you Yukiko?”

“Oh, absolutely. Not… not Goblins, but… there’s other equally problematic enemies. Though… seeing Shaeula, Hyacinth and the others, I have some regrets.”

“Don’t we all.” I comforted them both. “Early on, I treated all this rather too much like a game. And I was too aggressive in my expansion. I guess Henry would understand, being a soldier. My hands aren’t clean, but… I genuinely believe I’m doing it for the good of all, or at least, the majority.”

“And does the majority include non-humans?” Diana asked pointedly.

“It does. At least those who we can find common ground with. Some of those we can’t, I’ve no problem leaving alone. But there are creatures out there who we can’t reason with or come to an accord with. No…” That damn toad. “…for some, only war suffices. And I’ll bear that burden.”

“But not alone.” Ellie disagreed, and Yukiko supported her.

“Japan is with you. Britain too. Despite our troubles, South Korea supports you as well.”

“And I’m grateful. But to be Astral Emperor is to take the burden for my own. Instead… support me in my life, okay?” I pulled the two of them into an embrace, earning warm looks, some envious, from those around me.

“Cousin Gorohito is right to fear then.” Kaoruko chuckled. “You do seek to be Emperor.”

“He said Astral Emperor, sister.” Hodahito pointed out.

“Isn’t that worse? Yukiko will be above him by the sounds of it.” Kaoruko’s smile was cheeky. “That will drive him wild. The Imperial Family is stronger than ever, the Humanity Declaration repealed… though it eats at him that your fiancé achieved that, Yukiko, benefitting him… but everyone is praising you. He’s not used to failure. How would your brothers take it, Eleanor?”

“Mine? Henry is used to being the spare.” Ellie snorted. “And Akio’s not here to snatch Richard’s crown. Besides, father will live a long time, and before that, grandmother is hale and hearty, and swears until I have grandchildren she is going nowhere. As for… if Akio was to stand above us, as that is what being Astral Emperor means…” She shrugged, meeting Yukiko’s eyes, and they shared a knowing smile. “Let he who thinks he can defeat Akio cast the first stone. It better bloody well be a nuclear one.”

“That probably won’t even work.” Yukiko snorted. “Even if it killed him, his Astral form would just return.”

“This is all very well, but… I’m not screwing my new royal brothers and sisters, just so long as you two get your dues, Yukiko, Ellie.” I changed the subject. “Anyway, everyone’s hungry, I hope?”

“I still… don’t get it. KFC? For Christmas dinner?” Ellie shuddered, and my mom, who was passing by carrying a large tray of starters, grinned.

“Oh, you’re water for my soul, Ellie!”

Wow. Mom’s already on a nickname basis with her? I aped my sis with my thoughts.

“Yes, I didn’t get it either! In fact, it’s so strange at first I thought my darling was winding me up! No, when he asked why I was buying turkey, I couldn’t believe it. Mum and dad were the same. I confess, we did have it on Boxing Day, alongside leftovers…”

As mom continued to laugh about strange festive traditions, until auntie Hana came to drag her to the table with her bounty, I exchanged a glance with Ellie and Yukiko, who both smiled at me warmly. Yeah, this is… nice. Very nice. Christmas with family is the best. So Christmas with a bigger family is surely better, right?

Just as Ellie was about to share her own thoughts, she paused, glancing down at her ring. Yukiko was doing the same, and as I cast my vision around with aether, I could see everyone who wore my rings containing Foehn, as well as my sis and her earring, were confused. I then felt strange, Foehn running out of me, my stocks evaporating down to the tiniest dregs, and then orange letters spiralled across my vision…

Your Skill, Foehn, All-Consuming Conflagration, has increased from Rank 9 to Rank 10 and burned through the third pinnacle, reaching the boundless fourth horizon. Having consumed the…

Even with my stats, I suddenly stopped concentrating on the words, as a voice I had not heard for a while rang in my brain. Akio, did it work? Has Lin’s heart reached you?

Rose? Just… just what the hell did you two do?