On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

With Hyacinth still babbling in my arms, I looked around at the group training. “I think Ulfuric was right, this is a good time for a break. We’ve done well today, it’s been educational. Now it’s time to take a look at the Ring Gate.” Hoisting up Hyacinth and carrying her, I led us back towards the rich veins of earth element, where now three rings of giant mushrooms stood. My Eye shone a deep amber, and after examining them I noticed a small change.

Faerie Ring Gate Hub Rank 5 Special- Special Rank facilities cannot be levelled up by ether, they level as their requirements are met. Faerie Ring Gates draw upon abundant natural elemental water or earth to create a mystical gateway that connects two points of the lower Astral, allowing transportation between. They can also generate internal spatial energy by the connection between themselves. Due to the spreading of fungal spores, and the abnormal nature energy used to create one of the Gates, the mushrooms making up the three Ring Gates have all begun to consolidate, becoming one, forming a Hub, increasing their efficiency at converting elemental energies.

“I see. I did wonder how they worked, considering they use water or earth element, not spatial element. The Mushrooms must have their own Chakra network, and generate spatial in whatever the equivalent of their crown chakra is, but they need water or earth element to survive…” I mused.

“These Ring Gates are the preserve of the treekin.” Shaeraggo warned. “I do not know if Primal Forest will be best-best pleased.”

Hyacinth rolled her eyes, still enjoying me carrying her, and Shaeula also snorted dryly. “Brother, do not-not worry about Primal Forest. Akio has already considered this. We do not-not intend to encroach upon his preserve, this was merely a mortal-to-mortal Gate, was it not-not? The Seelie Court is unaffected. Besides…”

“We can always offer favours.” Hinata said, thinking. “If their own supply of these Mushrooms is limited, to prevent conflict, Hyacinth here can always grow a few Gates for them, so long as they acknowledge our right to make our own. We can probably secure closer ties too…” Hinata and the others had arrived at the Gate, and we had quite a crowd now, everyone eager to see.

“That’s shrewd business sense.” Mayumi-san agreed, excited, her eyes looking at the Ring Gate with interest. “They already have a monopoly, so you aren’t losing anything other than a little time and effort conceding, but if you get their agreement…” she trailed off. “So, this really takes you to London in the blink of an eye?”

“It does. And this one to Kyoto…” I pointed. “… but compared to the last one…”

“This is my-my gift.” Shaeraggo said proudly. “It goes to the borders of the Seelie Court, to my dear little sister’s mansion.”

“And from there-there to my domain, the Spring of Clear Reflections.” Shaeula agreed. “I believe in time, when your training progresses enough…” she looked out over the trainees, mercenaries and noble guests. “…Akio intends to move-move the training to the area around the mansion, no?”

“That’s right. It has a lot of benefits. Firstly, the time dilation is greater, so we can spend longer training without compromising your sleep like tonight.” I said, and I got some wry looks from the noble girls at that, Hinata giggling softly. “Secondly, the Ether density is a lot higher, even more so than Kyoto, so that helps with the exercises. But the benefits come with downsides. Unless you strengthen your Silver Cords and Chakra networks, it’s not safe. Therefore train hard, and you’ll get to see something amazing.”

“I can hardly wait.” Hinata agreed, and beside her, Kana nodded.

“But we’re going to see something amazing right now, right Akio?” she said, smiling sweetly. “After all, there’s no way you are going to go to London without us, are you?” she looked at Eri, Hinata, Daiyu and Asha. “We’re the only ones who haven’t been with him, it’s not fair. We demand equal treatment, right?”

“I do want to go.” Eri agreed, her tail waving, ears twitching. “I’m not healthy, I know, but I’m a lot better after your help, Akio. Besides, I am doing my schoolwork remotely. Unlike Kana-san here, I don’t have to be up early.”

“That’s mean, Eri-chan.” Kana laughed. “I can always skip school. It’s Hinata-chan, Motoko-chan and Natsumi-chan who can’t, right?”

“For this I can!” Hinata disagreed. “There’s nothing more important to Takatsukasa and Fukumoto houses as me getting along with Akio.” Sakura-san looked sour at that, but she said nothing.

All right. I suppose… I did some calculations. “It’s only a guess but based on the average sort of time dilation here in the Boundary, I’d say it’s between one and two in the morning outside. Normally you should all be home by midnight, but… I get that today was special.” At their nods and smiles of agreement, saying that it was good to have us back, I continued. “Britain is nine hours behind us, so it’s early afternoon there… fine. Eleanor owes us some treasures anyway. And something more.” I’ll not want to overwhelm her though, so I’ll just take the girls for now, Haru-san and my other vassals can come next time…

“Does that mean we can come?” Kana said excitedly, and I nodded. Kana let out a squeal and darted in, kissing me on the cheek, before realising she had done it in public and blushing. Yeah, Kana really is the most normal of all the girls…

“I’ve introduced most of you to the Princess anyway, so might as well do the rest and pick up our rewards.” I conceded. I put Hyacinth down, and she grumbled a little, but quickly took her place behind me. “All right. Asha, you’re sure?”

“Of course I am. I have made my feelings and resolve plain.” The Dryad nodded, looking at her Tree fondly. “Even were we to fail, at least I had a lovely dream before the end of our lives.”

“Don’t be like that. Aki has got this.” Shiro promised. “One thing I know is, he won’t risk you recklessly. He’s a predictable guy.”

“No, there is risk. Manageable, I hope, but…” I must have looked guilty, as Shaeula and Eri grabbed my free hands, squeezing them. It was Daiyu who spoke up then, surprising everyone.

“No power is gained without risking everything. But the greatest risk of all is to do nothing, knowing that danger looms. There are crouching tigers and hidden dragons everywhere, waiting to prey on the weak. Akio would be a fool to toss aside a means of strengthening us all just because it is challenging, but also a fool not to treat any method of gaining strength with respect and caution. And nothing I have seen has led me to believe he is a fool. Else many of us would not be here, would we?”

At her translated words, murmurs of agreement went around the girls. Shaeula’s and Shiro’s words were particularly embarrassing to hear, but I set those aside. “All right then. Everyone else knows what they are doing, right?”

“I would dearly like to come, but…” Mayumi-san said, and Hinata shook her head.

“A daughter of Ichijou house has to be at school every day, fresh, alert and perfect. Miyu can’t come either. Not today, anyway. But you’ll have other opportunities.”

“That’s right. I’m hoping this will create a new closeness between our countries. So there’ll be all sorts of meetings and agreements. No doubt your grandfathers will be involved…” As we finalised our intentions, the excitement was palpable, but all I was feeling was a huge amount of stress. My eyes met Asha’s, who smiled back calmly. Yes, Daiyu is right. We have to chance this. There’s too much at stake not to. “All right then. Girls, you’re coming with me. Those of you who’ve not used the Gates before, it’s over in a flash, there’s just a bit of discomfort.” And with that, I led them into the Ring Gate, a spray of violet energies scattering.

As I emerged through the other side onto a small island surrounded by water, veils of orange energy rising, I recognised it as Bermondsey Isle. Several Selkie were blinking in surprise as I emerged, followed by a crowd of girls. Seeing their confusion, I addressed them. “Good afternoon. We’ve met before. Can you get Raidre here, I need him to bring Princess Eleanor for a meeting as soon as possible?”

As they milled around in confusion, Shaeula, who had also emerged, spoke regally. “I am Shaeula Tu Shae Dannan. Heed-heed the words of my consort, and hurry. We do not-not have time to idle here.”

“She sure is something. It’s at times like this I remember she’s a real, actual princess, not just a girl who’s into all sorts of otaku stuff.” Kana whispered theatrically to Eri.

“How rude. I enjoy many-many mortal pursuits…” Shaeula said, pretending to be offended, and the mood lightened. Thanks, Kana. I guess you picked up that I’m stressed. Oh well, I’ll be put out of my misery soon, either way…

********

“Back so soon, I see.” Raidre declared, in his human form, his handsome expression pensive. “And your presence, so different. By the salt and tides, you’re no mortal brat, were you fooling us all this time?” He examined me, sensing my changes.

“Watch your tongue.” Shaeula warned him, and Raidre flinched.

“Fine. I am still grateful for your aid before, even if you tricked us.” He conceded.

“No trickery. I’ve simply evolved.” I said. “I’m both a human and a Fae now.” Well, something more than human, but does that matter?

“This is all very well, but yooou should show us some hooospitality, Selkie.” Hyacinth broke in, her own gaze cold.

“I apologise.” Raidre accepted her rebuke, and ordered some of his surviving Selkie to bring us to the feasting hall on the Isle. As we followed, he noticed Asha, and frowned.

“A daughter of Orion, as well? You have quite the entourage.”

“I do. These are… my wives-to-be, I guess?” I said, and Raidre snorted.

“The Princess will not approve. But to receive the favour of a Dryad… have you Kissed?” he asked, and Asha’s slightly green-tinged skin turned rather pink. She nodded, her yellow eyes solemn.

“I see. Then there is nothing more for me to say. By the moon that pulls the tides, it has been a time of great trials.” He looked mournfully at the flowers floating in the waters of the Thames, white and gold blossoms bobbing on the rippling tides. At that, Shaeula, Hyacinth and Asha’s mood softened, becoming more melancholic.

“They fought well, to the end. It is always hard to lose-lose kin.” Shaeula said, consoling him. As we entered the hall, food and drink was brought to us. Kana and Eri were taking sips of the fishy stew, seeming to like the taste, while Daiyu observed the foaming tankards with interest.

“Tooo die with honour is better than living in shame and cruelty.” Hyacinth also said. “They fooought so others could live. Hyacinth respects that.”

“Yes. And seeing humans and Fae fighting together, like we do… it fills me with hope.” I said, raising my own tankard. “A toast. To the fallen!”

The girls, the surrounding Selkie, and even Raidre, raised their mugs and echoed me.

“To the fallen.” Raidre said again after we all drank. “May their spirits be reborn amidst smoke and salt, looking up at the moon.” With that done, he sighed heavily. “Your return is timely. The Princess, she struggles with the gravity of what she must do. Those traitors… no, I will let her speak. Remain here, and I shall fetch her. I know where she will be. Keep them fed and watered.” He ordered his kin, before stomping out of the hall.

“He’s a bit intimidating.” Kana said, shuddering.

“He is a warrior.” Motoko said. “No different to master Ulfuric.”

“Though our master would beat him in a fight.” Natsumi insisted, smiling slightly. With that our conversation turned to their thoughts on the trip, and our relaxing time continued until the door to the hall burst open a while later, and David came stomping in. Seeing us all he brightened, before his eyes darted out over the girls again, doing a mental headcount.

“Ten? Bullshit, you said nine. You owe me a round, punk.” He said, but his angry words were belied by his pleased tone. Turning to Natsumi, he smiled slyly. “Hello again, fangirl. Come back to see your favourite martial artist, have you?”

Natsumi laughed, shrugging. “Sorry to disappoint, but no. I am still grateful for your advice to Akio though. He has taken it to heart and is already improving.”

“Great, making him even more of a monster, just what we needed.” David snorted, and a voice came from behind him.

“There is definitely something strange about you, indeed.” It was princess Eleanor, wearing her green and gold armour, her hair flowing freely down her back, blue eyes taking me in. “You feel different.”

“Indeed. He has not-not merely grown stronger, but become more than mortal. A Faeduine.” Shaeula praised me lavishly. “We meet again, Eleanor.”

“Yes, we do.” She pulled off her gauntlet, offering a hand to Shaeula, who shook it. She then turned and offered the same to Shiro and Hyacinth, before offering me her hand. Taking it, I gave it a gentle shake, feeling her hot skin. “The Chinese girl is not here? You have a different one? And Grulgor is absent too.” She paused. “Is she another of your… problems?”

Daiyu didn’t speak English, but was offended by her words when Shiro translated.

“No. She’s not a criminal. Daiyu is a staunch ally and… uh, my girlfriend?” I admitted, knowing that Eleanor was not fond of my promiscuous ways.

“I see.” She squeezed shut her blue eyes, before opening them a moment later, a wry smile on her face. “I don’t suppose it matters. Ten is hardly any different to six, is it? Wait, ten? Are you all his women?” she asked, shocked by her realisation. Behind her, David was laughing nastily, enjoying both mine and Eleanor’s discomfort.

“We are.” Shaeula spoke for everyone. “Allow me to introduce everyone. Though you have met many-many of us.” As she did so, she finally finished with “… there is an eleventh. But due to sad circumstances, she will not-not be able to visit here for a while.”

Eleventh? Do you mean Tsukiko-san? That’s not certain, not at all. But if she did wish to try finding love with me… oh well, that’s for later. Most importantly… “How are you managing? I know we’ve only been gone a couple of days, Hyacinth really outdid herself…” At my praise the maid giggled, preening. “… but have you made any decisions?” I finished.

“Not yet.” Eleanor looked troubled. “I understand having Donovan’s and Sarah’s Avalon’s… uh, Territories…” she changed her terminology out of good manners, to match mine. “… so close to my own is reckless. But Donovan is harmless…”

“Armless. Legless too.” David laughed, bringing a snort of amusement from Raidre, and a scandalised look from Eleanor. He waved her to continue, so she sighed. “… and Sarah… I feel that without justice, without the due process of a trial I am stumped… after all, we are British, and everyone gets to be judged for their crimes by a group of their peers, a jury. Though finding a jury than can comprehend all this…” she shook her head, downcast. “… as for Mary Stuart, her Territory is being watched by the trustworthy members of the other teams that remain. So far, no other followers of her Church have been seen. In time, perhaps we will tear it down, but for now…” her eyes were looking into mine, seemingly begging for understanding, so I gave it.

“I get it. With Chen Na, Nie Ling and the captured Cultivators, we’re still putting off our own decisions. But we have to reach some sort of outcome soon. Either we forgive them, or we punish them, and in that case gain from their losses.” I shook my head, not enjoying that line of thought. I’ve killed too many people now. I remember when this was all just a game, fighting zombies and giant insects. Now… it’ll only get harder, more morally grey. But we’ll do the best we can…

“At least now that we have the Ring Gate connected, we can consider ourselves, in a sense, one large Hub Territory.” I borrowed the word from the description of the Ring Gates. “Now we can mutually defend each other, and respond rapidly to any dangers.”

“You will still do that?” Eleanor asked hesitantly. “It seems we have less to offer than you…”

“Not true. We had an agreement. And I’m a man of my word.” At least where I can be. Sitting here surrounded by all my girls does make me feel a little guilty. No, enough of that. What matters is… “I brought Asha here…” I patted the Dryad on the shoulder, and she smiled, her yellow eyes bright but a little pained. “… to collect what you promised. The others too, but Asha is here for…” I trailed off, but she nodded.

“Yes, I get it.” She let out a painful sigh, full of self-doubt. “Grandmother allowed me to make the choice, knowing what was at stake. I still have doubts, that it could be a betrayal of everything the Royal Family stands for, that Britain is to protect, but… I gave my word. That matters.”

“You worry too much, Princess.” David snorted. “I’ve fought with him and against him. He’s not the sort to betray your trust. Look around…” he gestured to the girls. “All of them trust him, don’t they? Ordinary girls, crazy faeries…” Hyacinth scowled at that. “… and more. Besides, I’ll be honest. Until we rebuild, having someone who has our back is a relief.”

“Even after that, together we’re stronger.” I said. “By the way, where’s the others?”

David sighed. “Old man Arthur is training them. It’s… a bit of a waste of his time, but he feels responsible for letting them get hurt. He has a lot of pride. He really is a knight. Of course, you will be too soon, right?” he teased me.

Ignoring that, I suggested that those that lost their Favours could join the training in my Territory, as it focussed on the basics, and might let them rebuild their strength. Eleanor was appreciative, and then, making up her mind, she nodded. “Putting this off will achieve nothing. Come. I will pay my debts…”

********

“So, you are his childhood friend then?” Eleanor was saying to Eri, who spoke English perfectly. “That must be frustrating for you, seeing the way things are now. And… why the cat look? You are most definitely human, aren’t you?”

Eri shook her head, ears twitching. “It’s a long story. I was careless, and lucky to survive. As for Akio…” I met her onyx gaze as she looked over at me, before she shook her head again. “… I am not a liar. I can’t deny there’s a little part of me that wishes things were different, that Akio had never moved away, and I had him all to myself. But that wasn’t how things happened. It would have been more likely I’d have ended up alone. It was Shaeula who gave me the confidence to pursue my dream, and in the end I didn’t have the heart to deny her happiness as well.”

Eleanor was surprised. “That’s rather noble. Thinking of others that way. Not everyone can do it.”

“I never thought I could. I was so cruel…” Eri sighed, embarrassed. “But now… if things were different, so many of those standing here now wouldn’t be. Hyacinth, Asha… you, Princess Eleanor.”

“Just call me Eleanor.” She said, listening to Eri. “You are right. Without the help we were given, David and I would be dead or worse. I am certainly grateful. I can see you all care for him, but to me… it’s unnatural. But I am not a fool.” She flushed. “Despite how I acted before.” She looked at Motoko and Natsumi, who were talking with David about combat sports. “I nearly ruined their debut in society. I feel bad about that…”

“But you didn’t.” I said, breaking into the conversation. “They’ve been the talk of their school, so they are well satisfied. It’s the outcome that matters. And I expect scorn and derision. So long as it’s directed at me, I can take it.” Beside me, Asha was becoming more and more uncomfortable as we approached the great, jutting Tower of London that soared to the skies above. I held her hand, feeling her sweat and shake.

“No, you should not accept any scorn.” Eleanor surprised me by saying. “That only hurts those you love, right?” Eri nodded at that, agreeing, her face set in a scowl. “My, you are very expressive and adorable.” Eleanor was amused.

Kana said something, and as Eri translated, I held in a laugh. “Kana-san here says I’m normally rather sour. I’ll be sure to talk to her later about it, but she’s right. I was always shy and hiding behind others, such as Aiko. That’s Akio’s sister.” She said, explaining. “I never expressed myself. Now… I find I have more people to talk to, to trust. We have rules. It’s not perfect, but… we have to live together, so we need to, if not be friends, at least tolerate each other.”

“I prefer being friends.” I said, and Eri nodded.

“I’m not saying we aren’t. But… we need to work at it. Just like you do.”

“Yes. Please send me your phone numbers.” Eleanor said to Eri, surprising her. “Just as I extended my offer to the others, I wish to say the same to all of you. I will keep my misgivings about your living arrangements in my heart, but should he ever disappoint or betray you, any of you… I will not stay silent.”

“That’s the Princess for you.” David laughed. “What do you girls think?”

“I think the Princess has a noble heart. But her concern is unnecessary.” Motoko said.

“That’s right. Akio is always thinking of what he can do for us. I mean, isn’t that why we’re here?” Natsumi’s smile was impish.

“You’ve got me there.” David admitted. As we reached the great doorway to the Tower, passing the bleak battlefield where we had fought Mary Stuart, Asha clung to me, trembling.

“The flow of nature energy here is incredibly potent. It contains a great deal of earth, and water, of such purity… it is overwhelming. Stronger than you spoke of.”

“If it’s too much, just say so…” I said, and she shook her head, looking into my eyes, resolute.

“I will not disappoint you. I am Asha, I survived that spore-filled hell of decay and death through means unspeakable. I can endure this for a cause so worthwhile.” she promised. Seeing that, I couldn’t help but stroke her long auburn hair gently.

“Just don’t push yourself, all right?”

“That would be far more convincing if you were not-not always risking yourself.” Shaeula grinned. She said something to Daiyu, who nodded, agreeing.

“That’s all very well!” Hinata said, excited. “But we’re here. This Tower is huge!” She looked up in awe, seeing ravens flapping overhead, flocks of massive birds cawing ominously.

“I do not-not care for Ravens.” Shaeula shuddered. “I find them ill-omened.”

As everyone gathered up, Eleanor gestured to the Tower. “Welcome to the Tower of London. I give you all permission to enter.” She said formally, and she pushed open the doors. Soon we had made our way down to the basement where all the treasures were kept, and here in the Boundary it was quite the different sight, full of glittering relics and bright weapons. Hinata couldn’t contain her excitement, and scurried over to the nearest pile, eyes sparkling.

“Careful.” I warned her. “Don’t get hurt picking up something dangerous.”

“You worry too much!” Hinata declared happily. “How can I not be excited? All these treasures…”

“All Britain’s treasures.” I replied. “So be grateful you get to choose one, if you can.”

“I think we earned it.” she shot back, looking at Eleanor who was forced to nod. “But I’ll behave. Motoko, Natsumi, come take a look! There’s all sorts of weapons here…”

Daiyu was also looking around, shocked by the volume of treasures. Kana turned to me, hesitating. “Are you really sure I can have one? I mean, I’m not much of a fighter, am I?”

“Maybe not, but you’re my girlfriend. What bastard of a boyfriend would get other girls a gift and not his girlfriend?”

“There’s a flaw in that argument, but whatever. I do like receiving presents. I still wear that hairpin you got me, don’t I?” she smiled, before heading off.

“We have ours, so what should we do?” Shiro asked Shaeula and Hyacinth.

“You can come with us, below. Eleanor…” I said, turning away from the girls searching through the treasures, seeking anything they might have a connection with. “… can you give Asha permission to go below? To the Cauldron, the Grail.” I lowered my voice to a barest whisper for secrecy.

Taking a deep breath, Eleanor nodded. “It is too late to back out now. I grant you passage to where the Cauldron awaits.”

Following the Princess, we descended the winding stairs, Asha’s steps growing ever slower and more leaden, as if each movement was difficult. Shaeula and Hyacinth reassured her, while Shiro was looking around with a ruby-eyed gaze, Tan obviously awake to further observe such a powerful artefact. Reaching the bottom, the strangely pagan chapel was revealed, and the mistletoe and vines that draped the marble walls and vaulting stirred, as if eager to see Asha, whose face was pained.

“Such… such power of growth, of fertility.” She whispered. “It is beautiful, but so very dangerous.”

“It is the legacy we protect, that which keeps Britain a green and pleasant land.” Eleanor admitted. “Our greatest treasure. To allow you to take from it…” she bit her lip. “…it would have been lost without your aid. So perhaps this is a just decision.”

“We only need a little.” I said, my Eye blazing. “There’s no way we could contain much of it anyway.”

“Be strong, Asha.” Shaeula patted her back. “As you have so righty declared, you did not-not survive until this point to be beaten, did you? Besides…” her grin turned wicked. “… this is your great-great chance to prove to Akio you are a female that stands equal with any of us, worthy of being by his side, his lover, for all-all eternity. You do not-not even have to fear him dying of his old age, like the Fae and mortal romances of the olden tales, no?”

“Hyacinth can help yooou.” She grinned. “I know this energy, though…” her expression shifted. “I am better at decay, rather than grooowth.” Her words were a little sad, but on seeing our sympathetic looks, she shrugged. “I dooo not mind. So long as I am useful, I feel happy, fulfilled.”

“I can give you buffs.” Shiro supported her too. “Aki’s being harsh, making you do this. You’ll definitely have to screw a date or two out of him.” She winked at me, and I was once more struck by how kind all the girls were, supporting each other, when in reality they should have been bitter rivals. The world really has changed. But all I need to do is make sure they never regret it. I can do that…

“Asha, it’ll be all right. We’re all here with you.”

“I’ve thought this before…” Eleanor said, interrupting our pep-talk. “You certainly are all very harmonious. I’m a little jealous. I have a good relationship with Aditi and Mary-Jane, and I thought I had one with Sarah, but… it’s awkward now.”

“Sarah… I can’t do anything about that.” I said. “But the other two, there are ways. They might be suitable for another Favour, maybe. But for now…”

“Yes, I know. Forgive me. She needs to focus.” Eleanor looked at Asha with a smile. “You know, my blessing came from the Green Man. A duality of life, death and rebirth, the bringer of Spring. I regrow…” she said, a touch of melancholy in her eyes. “… it can be quite painful. But I am grateful, for it gives me the chance to protect what I must. At first, I hated that this burden came to me. But seeing those who can’t be trusted with these gifts… I know now it had to be me. What I’m trying to say is… I’m not terribly eloquent, I’m sorry… but… you are rather like me, Asha. You are a creature of life, or growth. So take what I offer, and use it for something good, something that matters. There’s meaning in that.”

“Well said.” I approved, and Eleanor looked at me, a slightly smug smile quivering on her lips.

“Of course. I am the Gods’ Chosen who represents Britain. I will not be outdone by you.”

“I am… ready.” Asha took a deep breath, drinking in all the reassurances and kind words. Her trembling lessened, though her eyes were still too bright, a little feverish, and her skin was dripping sweat, the ground around her steaming. As she moved towards the blinding glow of adherence and powerful nature energy, she reached down, driving her hand into the ground, her fingers digging into the soil in-between the paving stones that covered some of the ground. I saw earth energy swirling red, and she formed a small cup of mud. More ruby energy flowed, and it solidified into stone, the brown of the soil becoming a mixture of rippled white and brown swirls, looking a little like wood.

“I… am… ready.” She breathed, gasping with each word. Before she could advance, Hyacinth put her hand over Asha’s.

“Here. You are nooot alone.” She declared, and her own energies surged, nature element, a rich brown streaked with red and orange, sinking into the chalice. The stone shifted, the patterns changing, and after a moment Hyacinth sank to her knees, panting.

“I did nooot have much strength left, but… take what I have, and use it well.” Her smile was bright, even as she trembled herself. Asha nodded, touched, before looking back at us, then at me.

“I… am going… now. When I return… I ask…”

“Anything.” I said, giving her a final, gentle hug. She smelt of sweat and soil and fragrant wood. The moment I released her, she swung forwards, her lips meeting mine, a repeat of her kiss from long ago. As she pulled free, she nodded.

“I will… hold you… to… that.” She turned, and took several rapid steps forwards, vanishing into the light.

“That power is intense.” Tan said suddenly. “To contain it is as trying to contain a lake within a small vessel. If she merely takes a bucket from such a lake, she may be able to restrain it, but too much…”

“I trust her. Like she says, she’s survived worse. All we can do is believe in her.” I said firmly, and Tan shut Shiro’s eyes lazily.

“Belief. How apt. The belief here is rich. I have no wish to see the outcome. However it falls.” With that she was gone again, and Shiro apologised.

“It’s fine.” I waved that aside. “Tan was actually being considerate, in her own way. I like to think she doesn’t need to see, because she knows Asha can do it.” I tried to pierce the light with my Eye, and I could see the shadow of Asha, closing in on the mishappen vessel within the storm of energies.

One step. A second. A third. Asha approached it, and bent down slowly, the chalice of stone she had crafted in her hands. With a shaky motion she scooped it into the glowing liquid light that had accumulated within, and all of a sudden the light surged, adherence twisting and bucking like it was alive.

Asha! I forced power into my Eye, stepping forwards, only for Eleanor to grab one arm, Shaeula the other.

“You mustn’t. The power is dangerous if misused. Like the Green Man, growth and death are a cycle. If you don’t have the aptitude, it could easily corrode you.”

“That is quite-quite right. She is a Daughter of Orion. Even though she commands Earth, not-not Wood, she is still a creature of the nature element to her very being. If she can not-not, then none of us can…”

All we could do was wait, and so wait we did, our breaths hurried, nervous, until I heard it. A gentle footstep. One, then another. My heart leapt, and I could see the others equally as hopeful. My Eye could see the shadow of Asha, and step by torturous step she moved closer towards us, finally emerging from the light of the cauldron.

“Asha…” I called out, and she smiled at me, despite the shimmering tears of energy running down her cheeks, her body wreathed in light, it even shining through her skin, illuminating her.

“Akio. I… have it.” She cradled the chalice to her ample chest, nature energy rising from it in a thick mist. “The power… it is inside me, a part of me. But oh, how it burns. I am perhaps not strong enough to bear this. So we… must hurry. My Tree…”

She stopped her words as I threw my arms around her, heedless of the sizzle of the energies. I can endure them too. I’m strong, and I do have the wood element, even if it’s my weakest, along with darkness. My Eye glowing, I inspected her chakra network, only to be surprised. It looks familiar… like that time with Eri…

“Asha, you’ve brought out the power. Well done.” I tightened my hug, feeling both her warmth and the heat of such concentrated, pure adherence. “So, as promised. You had a request. What… what do you want?”

Her eyes widened, but at seeing my sincerity, she smiled, her tears of shimmering energy increasing. “I want…”