On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

Feelings of excitement, longing and loss running through her, Yukiko quickly entered the small but neat room in the building Akio-san called his training school. Several people gave her curious looks as she had leapt up the stairs, but she had ignored them, only focussed on one thing, feelings of anticipation, joy and fear of betrayed hopes and expectations a hot and heavy ball in her lower body. Tsukiko… you’re back. It doesn’t feel real. It shouldn’t be real…

No sooner had she thrown herself on the bed inside, not caring if her clothes crumpled or if anyone was watching, her eyes slid shut, and she felt the familiar sense of separation, of shifting consciousness that accompanied her descent, or perhaps ascent, to the mysterious mirror world called the Boundary. No, someone will be watching. Akio-san, he promised. It felt a little strange. Yukiko kept herself out of the public eye as much as was possible for an Imperial Princess. It would have been impossible before the War, when her family was said to be divine, descended from Amaterasu itself. Now, we are just figureheads, although…

The scenery of the Boundary resolved in front of her, and she was surprised to see Akio-san in front of her. Weren’t you watching me back in the… oh, you did say… Seeming to guess her thoughts, Akio-san smiled, though there was no mockery in it, merely a gentle teasing. “Like I said, I don’t have to worry about my transitions between the Boundary and the Material now. I can do both at once if I wish. Now…” He offered an arm, showing the etiquette of the nobility, and for a moment Yukiko was surprised, though she quickly dismissed that feeling. There’s no need to be shocked. He has several noble fiancées. Several… That was still strange to her, and she wasn’t sure what to make of it. Of course, with her family history she was somewhat accepting of it. Great-grandfather had concubines, and even grandfather had some in secret, I know… it isn’t fair for me to judge. Though it’s always harder when it’s someone you know.

She took his arm. “I’m quite capable of going unescorted. After all, I am a Chosen of Amaterasu.” she reminded him, hoping she wasn’t blushing. I’m still not used to intimate contact with others. As Priestess of Ise and an Imperial daughter, I’m kept sheltered, like a greenhouse flower, an ornament, just as our family has become. Although… It seemed quite a coincidence for her to be Chosen by Amaterasu, and once her father had revealed the secrets the Imperial Court still held, the Onmyōji and the Imperial Regalia, she realised perhaps there was more truth to the myth than the Americans had wanted to believe, back when they forced her grandfather to recant their divinity, leaving him old, careworn and defeated. That reminds me… father and grandfather both denied my request, but… for the future of Japan…

“Yes, I know. Your flames are quite impressive.” He praised her, and she found herself smiling. It’s nice to be appreciated for what I can do, rather than who I am. Although compared to him, or even some of those around him… she pictured the small, cute and mighty Shaeula, and felt a surge of inferiority in her heart, before pushing it down. No, not today. Today… it’s Tsukiko’s day. I pray so, anyway…

“As are yours.” she retorted. “Foehn, wasn’t it?”

“That’s right. A gift from America.” He grinned. “Now, are you ready?” he asked as they left the building, looking up at the towering Tree, which was now covered in many blossoms of pink and white, giving off a fragrant, soothing scent. That’s new…

There seemed to be more activity than usual, and Yukiko wondered if it was related to the events in the Material. Akio-san confirmed it with a casual nod. “That’s right. Everyone’s eager to visit the Material and help out. Though it seems Ling struggles to send from the Boundary to the Material, the other way isn’t much of a problem. But she can do enough for now.”

“I see. You’re always making progress. I’m jealous.” she said, and found she actually meant it, which surprised her. It seemed to surprise Akio-san a little too, though he quickly smiled in that slightly charming, teasing manner she had noticed so often on the occasions they had met.

“Does that mean you’ve got over your unwillingness to fight?” he asked shrewdly, and she bit her lip, a little irritated.

“A gentleman wouldn’t bring up the embarrassing past of a lady.” Yukiko retorted, but he only smiled more.

“I’m not much of a gentleman, as you can see by my number of girlfriends. When we fought on the outskirts of Kyoto that time, I was impressed. But…” he trailed off meaningfully, and Yukiko knew it was a strategy to get her to fill in the blanks. Fine, I’m not the most sociable of people, but I do have some skills, you know!

“At first, I wanted none of it. If I wanted the limelight, I could have it, after all, despite my plain appearance, I’m still Princess Mikasa.” she said, and before Akio-san could speak, she pushed at her glasses, peering over them sternly. It’s odd that they follow me here, and I don’t really need them anymore, since my eyesight has fixed itself, but I feel naked without them on my face. I think it’s probably related to self-image, which is why we don’t appear here naked… “Before you say something trite like I’m actually pretty, save it for your girlfriends. I’m aware I’m not actually that bad. But I’m a member of the Imperial Family, and a Princess. There are certain expectations. And I’m on the plainer side…”

Akio-san changed what he was about to say, and as they ascended the stairs, her feet were dragging, despite her eagerness to see Tsukiko again. Am I worried? I shouldn’t be, it’s not like Akio-san would lie to me. But… what if my hopes are dashed, if she’s not herself? I can’t help feeling a little dread…

“I get it. I’ve met a few Princesses now. But honestly, there’s nothing wrong with being the girl-next-door type, that’s cute in itself. And as the Chosen of Amaterasu, you blaze like the sun, so why worry about meeting such expectations?”

“Flatterer.” She pouted, as he had side-stepped her warning. Letting out a sigh, she admired the blossoms all around her, breathing in the scent. “If I’m being honest, I’m not so down on myself as I used to be. And I have to thank you and Tsukiko for that, I suppose. Yes, I never wanted to fight, to accept this, but… I now know I’m not alone. And it gets less frightening the more I do it. I think we can get used to anything, no matter how absurd, if we do it enough. And have those who recognise us.”

He nodded. “Yes, experience and understanding does lessen fear. But it’s more than that. We defeat enemies, claim Territories and grow, and it doesn’t just make us stronger, but it improves our mentalities too. Resilience.” He looked sad, and Yukiko tugged at their bound arms a little, showing she was there. On seeing her making an effort, he laughed a little, embarrassed. “Sorry. It just all fits into my fears about how this all plays out. How this is a contest to refine us all down to either one or a small handful of powerful beings. But…” He forced himself to cheer up, his grey eyes kind, and Yukiko could see the tiny flecks of amber in one eye, like a million tiny stars. Fascinating… oh, no, I shouldn’t stare so. Now it was her turn to be embarrassed, as he finished his thoughts.

“…that’s why I want to work together, lift everyone up. Sure, maybe, no… almost certainly someone will have to lead, will have to be an Astral Emperor, but I want to do it by growing together. I don’t want to be a pawn. If I’m a chess piece… I’d like to be a queen at least.”

At that image, a laugh burst from Yukiko, and she found some of her tension draining. “No, don’t be a queen, Akio-san… I’d hate to have to call you Akio-chan, and the others would be devastated. Besides, we’re Japanese, wouldn’t the kakugyo, the bishop from shogi, make more sense?”

“I’m better at chess. Mom taught me, Aiko and Eri as kids. She’s not terrible at it, but she’s not great either. Neither am I. Although… I bet that’s the sort of thing stats would benefit, calculating future board states…”

“I think we are straying from the main point.” Yukiko said, as they approached the terrace café where she could hear laughter, including some voices she recognised. Shaeula, I think. “I was saying, I’ve accepted my role, and after Kyoto and London, I know what’s at stake. But I can only do it because we are all working together.”

Akio-san agreed. “Exactly. And we’ll continue to do so. When my Territory is upgraded, I’ll be working on Haru’s next. And it should be able to cover Ise and the surroundings. It might cramp your room for expansion a bit, but we can work something out, and I’d rather Ise was properly defended.”

“It’s premature to worry about allocating Territory before it’s even claimed.” Yukiko said softly. “I trust we can work something out.” There was no answer, as she stepped onto the Terrace, seeing the group of women gathered at the best table in the centre, laughing and smiling. Her eyes went wide, and one face, a bare, revealed face, seared into her eyes, robbing her of thought. Akio-san was left behind, looking on fondly, as Yukiko raced across the terrace, before she swept the woman into her arms, cheeks wet with tears as her twisted knot of emotions frayed, bursting free. It’s her! Tsukiko! Alive again!

“Yukiko, you are crushing me…” a soft voice said, and after a moment she released her grip, only to see the face of Tsukiko looking at her, the ruby eyes kind, the cheeks also red, along with her flushed forehead and neck, silvery sweat dripping. For a moment Yukiko was confused, before seeing the slightly lopsided smile and the glass in her hand, full of fragrant liquid. For a moment she was shocked, before she blurted out “Tsukiko, are you… are you drunk?”

Her friend, Tsukiko, the noble, always refined and poised Lady Diviner, nodded, her expression sloppy. “I believe so. I am trying new things. It does not seem so bad.”

That’s… unexpected. But… it doesn’t matter. “That’s great. It’s great.” Tears flowed freely down her cheeks as she hugged her lost friend again. “It doesn’t matter. You should do what you want. So long as you’re alive. That’s all I care about.”

“Alive? Not exactly.” Suzuki-san said, having stayed behind to look after Tsukiko. “I’m afraid she’s dead, but then… being dead doesn’t necessarily mean life doesn’t keep going on.” Her own smile was wry, as she floated over and patted Yukiko gently on the back. “As her senior in being dead and coming back, I’m happy to answer any questions for you. Since you’re an important friend of Akio-kun’s.”

Yukiko blinked. “I’m an important friend?”

“Of course.” Akio-san said, a bit embarrassed. “Comrades in the same boat to friends, it’s not so far-fetched, is it? Now, let poor Tsukiko-san free, grab yourself a drink, and we might as well start discussing matters. But first… we have another guest coming.”

Yukiko looked puzzled. “Who?”

The woman Shiro, who intimidated with her perfect beauty, able to match the bare face and figure of Tsukiko that was no longer shrouded in voluminous robes, making Yukiko envious and uncomfortable in equal measure, snorted. “Who else? But another Princess, Princess.”

“Yes, I’ve asked Eleanor to come. I think that since Tsukiko-san is here, it would do us all good to get together. After all, the four of you have your destiny entwined, and Tsukiko-san too, as the Diviner.” Akio-san said, and Yukiko nodded. Yes, the prophecies from Tsukuyomi. As she felt a sudden chill, remembering the menacing crimson dragon and beast with a golden eye her friend had described, Yukiko found herself casting a glance at Akio-san as he took a glass from Shaeula, sitting down in the circle of pretty girls seemingly without a care. But Definite isn’t actually definite. He proved that. Otherwise Tsukiko wouldn’t be here now… With that thought in mind, she took the offered glass and took a sip, waiting for the new arrivals…

********

“We had to drop everything to come up here, so it best be important.” An angry-looking man with spiky-brown hair was saying in English. My English is passable, I can largely understand… beside him was a figure she recognised, Eleanor Elizabeth Diana Windsor. On seeing her, the Princess of Britain smiled, reaching out a hand, before pausing. “Oh, I’m sorry, how rude of me. I forgot for a moment you Japanese don’t much like physical contact, and I’m also wearing a gauntlet. It’s been a long time, Mikasa-sama. Are you well?”

“It’s no problem.” As Princess Eleanor, who she had met several times at state functions, both of them liking to keep low-key, so they often found themselves frequenting the same isolated corners of such events, removed her gauntlet, Yukiko took her hand and told her that honorifics were unnecessary, but couldn’t help admiring her green and bronze plate armour, which looked ancient and powerful. Not like mine. She looked down, seeing the black armour made from feathers she wore, a gift from Akio-san. Now it had suffered many scuffs and tears and was looking rather tatty in comparison.

Seeing that, Akio-san coughed. “Don’t worry Yukiko-san, you’ll be getting a new Brigandine armour at some point, it’s just demand is outstripping supply at the moment.”

“Looks like you’re giving your own Princess some toys, rather than ripping off ours.” The spiky-haired man said to Akio-san, rolling his eyes. “That’s favouritism in action.”

“David!” Eleanor said, scandalised, and one of the others with her, an older man with white hair and beard, yet still muscular, stepped forward and bowed politely.

“You must forgive his tone, Princess Mikasa. The boy has no manners, though he has improved somewhat due to recent events.” As the man, David, sniffed, insulted, the old man continued. “I am Sir Arthur Dumbarton, one of Princess Eleanor’s guards. This here is David Reckless, the same, and… Raidre, Selkie of Bermondsey Isle.” The last wasn’t human, but like many of the others in Akio-san’s Territory. The Selkie was nervous, glancing at Shaeula, who was grinning back, amused.

“I have nothing to forgive.” Yukiko-san accepted his words gracefully. “If Akio-san, one of my countrymen, has been less than gracious, I apologise on his behalf.”

Eleanor smiled wryly. “How could I say that? He saved my life, my brother, those here… a few gifts are nothing in comparison. He even helped us with this ether, to rebuild our ruined Avalon. No, Territory, I suppose.” She corrected. “Now, shall we not stand on ceremony?” Those who couldn’t understand the English well were being translated for, so when everyone was seated, Akio-san coughed, drawing everyone’s attention.

Yukiko was seated next to the drunk Tsukiko, who was watching everyone keenly, her ruby eyes sharp despite the alcohol, and seeing that reassured her. She’s still Tsukiko, the Diviner. She’s still herself. I want her to be free of her burden, but not to lay it down entirely. Because that would hurt her in the end. I… no, we… we will help her this time. She’s no longer alone. None of us are. I see. That’s Akio-san’s vision for our victory. I must say I prefer it to a few standing alone.

“Let me begin by welcoming our guests. Of course, you’re free to drop by any time.” Akio-san said easily to the Princess and her entourage.

“Unlike you…” the Princess pursed her lips, looking at Akio-san’s fiancées and girlfriends, though there was a twinkle in her blue eyes. “…I don’t have much time for leisure and playing around. I do thank you for taking care of Aditi and Mary-Jane though. They feel better having something to do, to… distract them from their sorrows.”

“It’s not a problem. I’m happy to help them get back on their feet.” Akio-san promised. “But… I’ve called you here, Eleanor, for an important reason. I present to you…” he smiled, gesturing grandly at Tsukiko. “Our noble Lady Diviner, Matsumuro Tsukiko. The one who gave me warning about the dangers you would face.” His expression was kind yet grim. “Without her foresight, I never would have travelled to Britain, and… I think the ending might have been different.”

David clenched his fist at that, growling to himself, and Eleanor nodded. “Yes, I fear it might have been. In that case… allow me to thank you.” She offered her hand to Tsukiko, who hesitated, human contact being forbidden to her before.

“She’s thanking you. It’s all right. You’re the Diviner, but you’re also Tsukiko.” Akio-san urged. “You can accept the ordinary, while keeping the extraordinary.”

Having made up her mind at his urgings, Tsukiko took her hand. “No thanks are necessary. I simply did what was right, as Tsukuyomi bade me. It is what I have always done.”

“It’s true. Up until her death…” Akio-san said so casually. “…she never had a name, showed her face, had any sort of fun. I hate that. But I respect her incredible dedication to others. But there’s nothing holy about sacrifice. Do good, but don’t lose your own happiness.”

“She died, huh? You say that so damn casually.” David complained. “I think I recall you mentioning it before, though, that she would come back. You’re truly disgusting, you know. Just how many things can one person do?” The envy in his tone was palpable, and Yukiko found her chest heating up, a feeling of pride surging. Even I have my Imperial pride. To hear one of our subjects being praised by such a foreign dignitary, it makes me feel happy.

As Princess Eleanor and Sir Arthur both sharply rebuked him, Akio-san laughed. “A lot, but not everything. But it can be learned. After all, Eleanor can use water element now, and your own training must be progressing, right?”

“Yeah, I guess so. So…” David leered at Tsukiko, only to rear back in surprise as Akio flicked a tiny water bullet into his head. He cursed, only for Akio-san to chastise him.

“Weren’t you listening? Tsukiko-san isn’t used to human contact. So don’t pressure her. She can take all the time she needs to get used to people. I know she’s gorgeous, but please tone it down.”

Wait, Tsukiko looks happy! Her face is redder than ever. The way she glanced down shyly was clenching at Yukiko’s heart, but it sparked a thought. I know when she died, she gave Akio-san a kiss, supposedly. But… does she…? Lost in her thoughts, Akio-san continued.

“So, while most of you know each other already, we now have four of the Princesses who Tsukiko-san prophesised to be vital for heading off six great disasters threatening Earth. It’s not just a case of Britain or Japan… everything is at stake.”

Hearing those words, Tsukiko’s expression changed, and she was once again the cool beauty Yukiko had always imagined her as. She nodded regally, and her strong voice captivated everyone. “Indeed. We have here four Princesses of the Six Paths. Human…” she nodded to Eleanor. “Beast.”

“I do not-not like that title. In fact I hate it. I demand an upgrade.” Shaeula pouted.

“Hungry Ghost.” Shiro leaned back in her chair, and Yukiko was once more struck by the similarities between her and Tsukiko. They don’t look alike, but they are both inhumanly attractive in their own unique ways…

“And Heaven, my dear friend.” Seeing her smile, Yukiko nodded happily.

“Now…” Tsukiko finished. “Let me tell you what I have seen reflected in the moon, and the threats we all face…” But not alone. Tsukiko was worried that the Princesses would be unable to come together, but before we even met, Akio-san had gathered two of them… but where are the other two? And who?

********

“It sounds terrifying.” Eleanor shuddered, hearing about the roaring giant with the burning eye. “You say that in addition to the great dangers we have to fight, we each have a threat another Princess has to save us from?”

“Yes, six threats, six world ending dangers. Although…” Tsukiko commanded everyone’s attention. “Two threats have been overturned.”

“Yes, I am free from the false friends in blank masks.” Eleanor sighed. “Akio, I am sorry again. I didn’t want to believe that those I trusted would betray me. But…”

“Speaking of that, have you decided?” he said softly, and David was the one who answered, frustrated.

“It’s a big damn decision. I’d be more than happy to smother the limbless prick Donovan myself, but for now he’s ranting and raving in a military prison. The redhead… she’s giving us no trouble. And we’re watching the Territory of that nun bitch Mary, but so far none of her allies have come to take the bait.”

“But tensions are rising. We’ve had protests which have sparked trouble on the streets of most cities.” Eleanor was grim. “Ever since that video from her Church was released, there’s been a growing number of religiously motivated crimes and violence. Many are calling for all the Gods’ Chosen to be arrested, or worse. Right now, we have to tread carefully, and not inflame already high tensions.”

“As for us… we made our decision. It’s not fair, but what is?” Shiro said lazily. “I think Nie Ling should be happy to have survived. And she’s no slave, not like the other one, Chen Na, trapped under a Throne. And speaking of Thrones…” she looked at Tsukiko, who nodded.

“After this I shall tell you the decision I have made.”

You’ve already decided? Then… guessing what was in her friend’s heart, Yukiko held her silence. Besides, what we are discussing is frightening enough.

“That giant, by the salt and smoke, it sounds familiar.” Raidre said suddenly, and Shaeula snorted bitterly.

“Of course it does, any-any from the Seelie Court would know of Duke Formor. But we have considered this, and I do not-not believe we are at odds any longer. No, he with his Mystic Eyes that destroy, he is not-not the only one…”

“The giants that betrayed the Court and turned to the Unseelie. The Fomorians. Sons of Balor, he of the first and evilest of the Mystic Eyes.” Raidre breathed.

“Yes. I suspect so-so.” Shaeula smiled at Eleanor, her gaze sympathetic. “I shall call on you when the time-time comes. Though I suspect it will be painful.”

Eleanor shuddered. “I don’t want to think about it. Facing a raging giant, being burned again and again… but, hang on a minute. One thing doesn’t add up here.”

“Yeah, me, right?” Shiro said lazily. “My trial was a bit different. I know my threat, and my danger is also my salvation, right Tan?” There was no answer, and after a brief giggle, she continued. “Shit, she’s so tsundere. But I was supposed to kill Aki and that would drive me mad, leading to me giving up on life and Tan taking over, right? But Aki crushed that fate himself, with his own hands. But… if you think about it…”

“Yes?” Eleanor asked, curious.

“If it wasn’t for our Princess of Beasts here…” she teased Shaeula, who pouted. “…Aki never would have had the courage to pursue me, and everything would have been different. Worse. It doesn’t bear thinking about. I almost made a disastrous mistake.”

“That doesn’t fit either.” Yukiko pointed out. “Shaeula was the one to protect Eleanor from the false friends in white masks, which she did, right?”

“She cut apart that dipshit Donovan like he was a fucking sausage.” David said with relish. “I’d say so.”

After he was once more criticised for his language, David continued. “You’re too hung up on this. Forget who does what, from what you’ve said, our boy here…” he got up and slapped Akio-san on the shoulder as hard as he could, holding in a wince at his sore hand. “…already broke one thing you were sure would happen, the death of your damn soul. Yet here you are.”

Tsukiko nodded. “Yes, I considered it in the brief moments of lucidity in the darkness while I slept. Even Tsukuyomi’s great prophecies are fallible, though I believed them inviolate.”

“Even the Laplace’s Demon you used to explain to me cannot truly exist within the Universe it is measuring.” Princess Eleanor declared to Akio-san. “I think we can only use them as a guide.”

“Indeed, I have realised this. So, two disasters have been overturned, and we know of the golden-eyed devourer already. Then the giant of flame, and white and copper crosses dipped in blood.” She had revealed a fifth threat, to the Princess of Hell, whose whereabouts remained unknown. “As for the other…” Tsukiko looked at Akio-san. “…while I still can dream, I passed the Divine Favour of Tsukuyomi to you, my successor. Have you any insights to share?”

Yukiko held a hand over her mouth to hide her smile as he shrugged apologetically. “Nothing yet that’s new, just more confirming Tsukiko-san’s I’m afraid. I’ve been cutting my sleep to the bare minimum recently, I’ve had a lot going on. Uh… I mean, I don’t really sleep much at all.”

“How sad.” Tsukiko said, smiling. “If you struggle to sleep I can hold you until you drift off. I have no experience, but I am confident I can be motherly.” She shifted, and her large chest bounced under her clothing. Akio-san choked, as did David, who swore again, and Yukiko-san was also stunned. That’s so bold. Tsukiko… you really…

“Damn girl…” David said, once his annoyance subsided. “There’s plenty of other good guys out there, you can do better than him, you know.”

“Are you thinking of yourself, David?” Princess Eleanor quirked her lips in an amused smile, and he shrugged.

“Well why not? Damn, she’s a gorgeous one, no mistaking that.”

“But you can barely communicate without the translation of others. Besides…” Princess Eleanor looked at Tsukiko, her smile warm. “…having a life saved…” Suzuki-san coughed loudly, and the Princess snorted, amused. “… it’s basically that, no need to quibble. It has a great impact on the heart. Especially if one thinks their demise is inevitable, ordained.” Eleanor looked at Akio-san, her gaze expectant. “You know my thoughts though, and they have not changed.”

Akio-san nodded. “Uh… yeah, I get it. If I ever mistreat her or any of the others, then you’ll be sure to teach me a lesson.”

“It sounds to me like matters have been decided. What do you all think?” Yukiko asked, feeling a surge of happiness for her lonely friend, though also a twinge of something else, as well.

“It’s inevitable. From when they met in Kyoto, it was going this way.” Shiro waved it off. “Besides…” she grinned at David. “…while there are probably a number of good guys about, Hayato for one, there’s no way he could handle a woman like Tsukiko. I don’t think you could either.” she said, and David shrugged.

“Give a guy a chance, but… yeah, I get it. Girls love strength. And he has it in spades.”

“Kindness too.” Shaeula interjected. “I am not-not bound by your mortal conventions, my father has many wives and concubines, it is quite-quite normal to me, but… Akio can love as widely as the seas, and it is just as deep as the oceans. And who Akio loves, we-we love too. So…” her amber eyes gleamed happily. “…join us, Tsukiko, and the final stains on Akio’s heart, that he could not-not save your life, can be swept away at last.”

She nodded, and addressed Yukiko, her expression one she would never have imagined Tsukiko could show, teasing, hopeful and also happy. “I know your long-cherished dream, to be ordinary, to be valued for who you are, not what you are.”

Princess Eleanor agreed with that, having likely shared some of the same troubles and worries. As Tsukiko continued, everything was clear to Yukiko, all the pieces fitting together. “I am the same.” Tsukiko continued. “I only thought I was valued for my piety, my devotion to Tsukuyomi. I gave up my own self. I do not regret it, even now.” She looked at Eleanor. “For I have the proof it was not in vain. You stand here before me alive, and able to change the Destiny of another. But… I found someone who can shatter what I believed, who makes me wonder…” she smiled at Akio, and the smile was brilliantly pure, yet also incredibly alluring. “…why I worried so much about whether he was the one that could save you, Yukiko. Because he told me words I did not believe, yet so wished to be true. If we do not have a hero who can save us, we simply need to make one. And he forged himself out of nothing.”

“Not alone.” Shaeula said, and as everyone nodded, Tsukiko echoed her.

“Yes, not alone. Yet without strength, kindness, fortune and even foolishness, an unwillingness to give up on those he wishes to make happy, even if it seems impossible… such a person could not exist.”

Akio-san agreed, his tone tender. “Yeah, that’s the thing with prophecies, foretellings and the like. They can always fit after the fact. We can’t use them as guides. Kyoto taught me that. Twice. Even when I tried to protect everyone when Foresight was warning me of danger, I failed, and a lot of my trainees died and Eri was crippled. I could have stopped that, by immediately abandoning Kyoto, taking everyone home and hiding. But if we did that, then I wouldn’t have made connections with the two of you. And then Tsukiko-san would be dead for real.” He nodded at Yukiko and Tsukiko.

“Call me Tsukiko. You have earned it. The first to say my name, see my face, in many years. If you cannot, who can?”

“I’m no expert in Japanese…” David grumbled after it was translated. “But that’s a big thing here, culturally, right?”

“I believe it means she sees him intimately. It does not necessarily mean as lovers, but certainly as someone special.” Sir Arthur clarified.

“Yeah, I knew it. Hey pretty boy, you owe me another round. How about a handicap? You stand still and let me beat on you for a minute or five!”

Ignoring David’s slightly bitter humour, Akio-san continued. “We can’t be ruled by prophecy. Even if Tsukuyomi is trying to help, which I don’t doubt, the Gods aren’t all-knowing and all-powerful, or there’s no point to any of this. So I’ll save the other two Princesses, whoever and wherever they are, simply because the four I already know are people worth saving, so I doubt the other two are any different. And we’ll help each other, until all the threats are done, and the six disasters facing earth are repelled. White and Red Dragons, the Pillars, whatever else is coming… this is our world, and we need to protect it, together.”

“And that’s how Aki gets you.” Shiro said to Yukiko and Princess Eleanor with a resigned grin. “The worst thing is, he’s not doing it on purpose. Not this at least. He can be a flirt, just ask Kana, but when he is talking about protecting, he damn well means it.”

My heart did ache a little there. No, he’s my friend, he said so. Of course he wants to help me. And Tsukiko… “So, Tsukiko, do you agree?” It must be hard, you spent your whole life believing there were things that you could change, and sadly things you had to accept. Now you find that overturned… it’s probably frightening.

“I have no choice but to concede.” She admitted gracefully, though she wobbled a bit, her face flushing, as she realised she was still drunk. Standing, she strode over to Akio and took his arm, looking into his grey eyes with her ruby ones, nearly close enough to kiss. “More importantly… I want to believe. Because if I do not, the one who was able to save us is rather useless, for he was not there.” She reached up, hesitantly at first, before her fingers quivered, touching Akio-san’s cheeks, as soft as a breath at first, before her confidence grew. “And I found your willingness to see the real me, beyond what I could do for you, and what you would give for me… it touched my heart. My cold, silent, stoic heart. It began to beat again.”

Yukiko watched on, clutching the front of her dress in her fist, breath coming fast. I… she’s doing it!

“I am reborn.” Tsukiko looked at Suzuki-san, who nodded, reassuring her. “I gave my all, my very life for what I believed in. I still believe in it. But now I believe in more. So… you asked me to marry you, foolish man.” Tsukiko’s red eyes were bright. “You should be more careful, even to save a life, such a commitment should not be offered.”

“I know.” Akio-san breathed, unable to move, so close she was to him. “At the time I was desp…” Her hand came and sealed his mouth, cutting off his excuses.

“I know.” She repeated. “But even a woman such as I, who has lived without emotions, as a machine, knows where the line is. You have let many women and girls alike beguile you, and you should stop. If you genuinely desire someone, that is healthy. After all, the Gods themselves make many children, have many lovers. Izanagi and his sister Izanami gave birth to children, one of which was Tsukuyomi, who I still revere. But simply pity, or to avoid hurt feelings… that is not a good enough reason.”

Yukiko could see the traces of guilt in Akio-san’s eyes, but they quickly vanished, and his face was resolute, his jaw clenched. “I know. Hinata, Motoko, Natsumi, they were all because I didn’t want to hurt them. Honestly… Eri too. It all started because I was a weak idiot. But since then, I’ve learned. I have. And though I may have chosen for stupid reasons, I love them all dearly now, and I’ll never give them up. But I can’t keep choosing just for those reasons. So… you know, the moon is beautiful tonight, isn’t it?” Akio-san said, and Tsukiko smile widened, waiting. “But not as beautiful as you. I like your appearance, you’re right in my strike zone.” Akio-san said boldly. “But most of all, I like the purity of your heart, and how you strive to protect others. And I can’t help but think I want to make it mine, and make you smile from the heart, or gasp in wonder at some new experience.”

“How-how bold. It seems after Asha and Kana, Akio has-has finally learned how to be a proper male.” Shaeula praised, while Shiro whistled lewdly, chortling like a dirty old man.

“I see. I confess to having a certain level of trepidation.” Tsukiko breathed. “My heart is racing. Perhaps it is the strong alcohol? No, I suspect not.” She flushed nearly as red as her eyes. “I am still naïve, and I feel I might cause you may difficulties…”

“You’re worth the price.” Akio-san promised. “It seems pretty shady of me saying this when the time we’ve spent together is so limited, but… when I think of you smiling, enjoying life along with everyone else, I feel so warm inside. It’s not pity though, I promise.” He insisted. “I’ve learned girls don’t want affection out of pity. No, it’s because I see your unyielding spirit, and I think I’d really enjoy showing you all the good things you’ve missed out on. Although…” he grinned, a mock-stern expression crossing his features. “…it won’t all be easy. You wanted to protect Yukiko-san, your friend, and the other Princesses. Well, you still can and will, but now it’ll be more hands on, so you’ll have to train and grow stronger, just like everyone else. There are no passengers in this battle harem!” He threw in a joke at the end to lighten the tension.

“Aki’s big on tough love too. It’s sweet, like drowning in honey, but sometimes drowning isn’t as fun as it sounds.” Shiro joked.

“Drowning doesn’t sound like fun at all…” David quipped dryly after the translation. “Man, I thought we were here for serious business?”

“We are.” Akio-kun said sternly. “But to me… Tsukiko has always been serious business.”

“I… that does sound wonderful. I feel sweetness on my tongue and in my heart. The honey is enveloping me.” Tsukiko smiled. “But I am not as indomitable as you think. I prayed for salvation, for mercy, even though I thought it would never come. I still hoped, and…”

“… that’s what it is to be human. That’s nothing to be ashamed of. I think despite all the powers we have gained, the responsibility we shoulder… we need to stay human, stay caring. So… you’re happy with me? It’s a lifelong commitment you know.”

“No it isn’t.” David disagreed. “Couples break up all the time, man.”

“Oh it is.” Shaeula shook her head. “I do-do believe Eri would not take kindly to someone abandoning Akio. She is rather complicated. I do love-love her dearly, but for one who wished desperately to have Akio all to herself, she is a female who will not-not tolerate any slights to Akio, and if he loves them, they can not-not reject him.”

“They’re all crazy, Princess. See, no need to worry. They should get together to prevent the crazy spreading. Best keep it all in one place, we don’t want an infectious outbreak of idiocy.” David complained, and Princess Eleanor giggled politely.

“Yes, so it seems. But for a man with such an inconstant nature, it was rather endearing and heartfelt. Watching it, and having heard what the poor woman endured for the good of many, including myself… I found myself hoping he would accept her. Melissa would be disappointed in me. It seems you are right after all, David.”

“Always am.” he boasted. Yukiko was barely listening though, as Tsukiko turned to her.

“Yukiko, without you and Yasuhide, I would not have survived as long as I did. Now… I will go on ahead. Hopefully you too one day will find what you seek. Until that day… I… no, we…” Her smile was brilliant, almost blinding. “…will protect you, by your side. I would have been happy under your care, but… it seems more appropriate to tie myself more securely to the future I chose. Not one I ever foresaw, not one Tsukuyomi showed me, but one that shattered my bonds, and gave me hope that the future would be bright, despite so much terror and darkness to come.”

“You’re sure?” Akio-san asked one last time, and Tsukiko leaned forwards just a fraction, and their lips touched for a second time. This time, there was no disintegration, Tsukiko fading away, but a brilliant glow of aether, a rainbow surrounding them. Isn’t this moment dragging out a bit too much? Suddenly wet sounds were heard, and Yukiko covered her eyes with her hands, while Princess Eleanor looked away, keeping her dignity. The damp, slurping noises were continuing, until they parted with a sigh.

“You didn’t have to seal it with a kiss you know.” Akio-san said, and as Yukiko peeked through her fingers in relief, she was amused to see him red-faced and embarrassed, despite all his experience.

“I know. But I wished my first was better. Besides… this one I could enjoy, I could savour. I finally feel my age. A woman.”

“If you think that makes you a woman, you’re as naïve as the little noble girls.” Shiro snickered. “Good job though. You got Aki all hot and bothered. Guess all the booze lowered your inhibitions.”

“Being killed puts things into perspective.” Tsukiko said, and Suzuki-san nodded agreement. “There seems little point being caught up on things. Death can come at any time, so make the most of every moment. As I intend to do from now on.”

“That’s why I’m not getting any sleep!” Akio-san said, to relieved laughter all around. “Which is what started this…”

With that he grabbed Tsukiko and pulled her close, kissing her again, as if to prove to her that he genuinely wanted her, and as the girls looked at each other, Yukiko couldn’t look away, her heart racing. He kept his promise to me. Tsukiko can go home, I can see her whenever I want. And she can be happy, loved… I’m jealous, but… it’s a good feeling. Now I have to firm my resolve. I am the Princess of Heaven, Priestess of Ise, Princess Mikasa. Japan and those within it are mine to defend. But not alone, no, not alone…

********

Tsukiko was sitting snuggled against Akio, with the small Chinese girl, Daiyu, occupying his other side. After some more drinks and discussion, talk had turned back to more serious topics.

“So, the Red Dragon is China, and the toad bastard that killed you is pulling some of the strings?” David asked. “In that case, the White Dragon, isn’t it likely a country too? America maybe? The yanks have been doing some damn stupid shit.”

“I think that it’s not so much China as what China is hiding.” Akio-san said. “After all, it’s a threat to the very world, yet China’s part of the world.”

“So, level with me.” David leaned forward eagerly. “How strong was this golden frog compared to that bitch Mary and her angels?”

“Good question. Bear in mind, this was just a clone, but I’d say very comparable. So the real thing is going to be horrific.” Akio-san said, shaking his head. “As for the Church of True Revelations, if they have a lot of people as strong as Mary who can also call angels, I can see us having trouble.”

“Shit. It never ends.” David shrugged. “So, at least we have thrashed out a plan.”

“Yeah.” Akio-san agreed. “Thanks to our recent gains in mount Atago, I’m hopeful we can push my Territory to Rank four in months. Then we’ll do Haru’s in Kyoto, which will protect Ise and Yukiko-san. We can then ferry ether to London, and you’ll be next, Eleanor.”

“I still feel rather shameful, taking such bounty. But…” Yukiko was surprised to see the smile on her face, rather teasing. “…since you took from me without any sense of shame, I’ll do the same and just say thank you.”

“Hah, well… there’s still a few more who need to rummage around the Tower. Like Tsukiko here.” He had dropped the honourific as she had asked him, and she flushed, though her eyes were sparkling joyously. She’s like a different person. No, perhaps this is who she would have been if she grew up normally, without such burdens. “After that…” he continued. “…getting all our Vassals and allies to at least Rank three, then making a start on heavy infrastructure builds… if we can copy China and work together, we won’t fall behind.”

“I have a concern.” Daiyu suddenly said, and all eyes turned to her. She then explained that she was worried that Kunlun would return, and they might be the Red Dragon.

“Kunlun?” Sir Arthur asked. “Isn’t that a mountain range?”

Daiyu shook her head after Akio-san translated.

“Kunlun refers to the sacred land of the Cultivators. It was sealed fifteen hundred years ago, to keep what spiritual energy, what aether they could. If it has not collapsed, there could be many powerful Cultivators there. And what the powerful seek is more power, no matter who they have to trample to get it.”

“That is a concern.” Yukiko agreed. “But we have other worries, all we can do is grow stronger.”

“Well said.” Shaeula approved, a sudden grin on her face. “And to that-that end we need more allies.”

“Yeah, if we make suitable friends who are Chosen that occupy places we need to protect, we can consider helping them with aether too. Although I have a few allies who have Anchors yet to deploy.” Akio-san mused.

“I did not-not mean that, although that is a good thought.” Shaeula said. Her gaze fell on Yukiko and Princess Eleanor, her expression calculating. “Tomorrow a great-great event in the Seelie Court is upon us, where Akio and I are the guests of honour. Perhaps you have-have heard whispers on the salt, Raidre?”

The Seelie shook his head. “I do not hear much from the Court, not these days.”

“Poor you. Perhaps you should take it as time-time to return. You can be invited as well.” She smiled wickedly. “It is our triumphant unveiling of my Duchy, the Spring of Clear Reflections. Barring the Queen, all Seelie of note should-should be there. We will ensnare them with our new ideas and gain further support. Perhaps…” her smile grew. “…having Princesses of two very important, powerful mortal countries in attendance would make-make the right impression?”

At that, Yukiko found herself smiling too. I’ve heard talk of the land of the fairies. Yet I never thought I would actually see it. I can make time, certainly… Princess Eleanor seemed to accept that as well, and Akio-kun offered some final words on the matter.

“There’s someone else you need to invite too, isn’t there?”

Shaeula nodded, biting at her lips, a touch nervous. “Yes, I dearly hope-hope it works out, but…”

“It will be fine.” Tsukiko said warmly from beside Akio. “I do not need a vision from Tsukuyomi to see that. If you have problems, lean on Akio. I would be more than willing to aid you as well.”

“I see. You are a quick-quick study, Tsukiko. A worthy female indeed. Beauty and intelligence.” Shaeula set aside her unease. “Yes, even if it does not-not go as planned, just like my courtship with Akio, so long as the end result satisfies, such trials in the path are merely tales to tell later over fine booze.” She raised her glass, gulping down the liquid. “So, tonight we celebrate. For tomorrow there is much-much to do!”

As everyone cheered, Yukiko met Tsukiko’s gaze, and she nodded. I see. This is what you wanted, so… I’ll always support you. For a moment, her eyes looked at the heavens above, the dark aurorae shimmering. Amaterasu, I cursed you for choosing me, but… without the changing world, could Tsukiko have ever been happy? Perhaps I’ll forgive you, just this once… Though as she watched the glow overhead, it almost felt as though something dangerous was looking down on her, and she shivered involuntarily. No, we shouldn’t be complacent. Tsukiko lives again, and Princess Eleanor and Shiro survived, but… there’s still so many threats out there… with that thought in mind, she downed her own drink, coughing nosily as it went down the wrong way, and as Shiro slapped her back, her unease diminished, though a last niggling bit remained, as if a thorn, pricking at her heart…