On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

Once more, the faint trickle of Fortune I felt from the Weal didn’t cause a Woe backlash. I wasn’t connected to the three subjects Haru had chosen, and indeed, I didn’t even know who they were, as Haru controlled her Telepathy brilliantly, her time working with Chiasa-chan and Chiaki-chan, who had a natural telepathic bond with each other, having pushed her to greater heights of skill.

However, I was connected to Haru, and Haru to them, so it was like a spider web of distributed bonds, perhaps like an early version of the internet, with Haru acting as a router, and the adherence and aether making up the Woe flowing between her and the ones she had picked out.

It seems it worked. At least the one I’m still with dropped a tray of drinks and soaked her clothes. She isn’t very happy, Akio! To think you’d bully a poor servant girl like that!

Hey, it’s not my fault, you picked her! I’m innocent! Haru’s tone was teasing, so my reply was equally humorous.

Sure you are. I’ll be back momentarily and we can go to the next stage.

I exchanged a glance with Hyacinth, who asked me if it had worked, and I nodded.

“Yes, we can pass Woe to those we haven’t been in contact with, assuming there’s a suitable point of connection. If I had to guess, that’s the adherence component of Weal And Woe. And explains just how affecting the First Goblin caused it to spread to the others.”

Wanderer spoke up, an odd mixture of confusion and hope in his eyes. “We are all the Blood of the First. It is known that we cannot remain ourselves without the lineage of the First. Just as our fallen Clans became the filthy Red Caps… but I do not see what you are doing here?”

As Haru returned, I waved gratefully at her, before addressing Wanderer. “Finding out how things work. Everything has a reason behind it. Back in the Mortal world, we even think magic has rules behind it. Soft systems have fallen out of favour for hard ones.” At his confused expression, and the High Kobold’s knowing, slightly mocking one, I clarified.

“Basically, soft systems aren’t clearly defined, whereas hard systems follow vigorous rules, but… even soft systems have underlying principles, we just don’t know them, or they aren’t obvious.” As an example I channelled a little aether, creating a dagger out of nothing with the power of that and my concentrated imagination. I then tossed the dagger, and it stuck in the ground, but dispersed into motes of aether when I stopped concentrating on it.

“Aether seems almost like a miracle. Able to do near anything. But that’s not the case. Of course it’s not.” I grinned, enjoying the fruits of my research over these last months. First under the guidance of Lin, who I had cheekily called Exposition-san, as she loved explaining.  Now I’m grateful for that. It seems what she did, what her fellow sisters did, in helping us from the start, wasn’t strictly allowed. They can give power, but not knowledge.

Under her guidance I had played with aether, using it in various ways, at least with the truly feeble amounts I had possessed back then. Now, such trials, like forging a dagger from aether, were merely trivial.

Shaeula had taught me too. In the Material, I suddenly thanked her, and she blinked at me, surprised at my strange change of subject. When I explained, she laughed uproariously, holding my hand tightly and speaking to me fondly. “I do-do remember those days. They were the most-most thrilling of my life. Before… I was merely existing, a petty, bitter child who knew naught-naught of the world. Yet… I quickly realised it was surely meant-meant to be. Definite, as Tsukiko would call it.”

“Yeah. I hate the idea of our lives being on puppet strings, and… I don’t think they are. Because even the so-called Definite can be overturned, with enough strength and commitment. But I agree… this is the way things should be. And… it’ll get harder, but… that just means our rewards will be greater.”

“You can-can reward me all day and all night!” Shaeula winked at me, tightening her grip, and back in the Fae realms, I continued my explanation.

“Shaeula showed me how to tame the wind, and that while the abilities of Fae and we humans seemed so dissimilar, we were mediated by a unified system, a network. You know what a network is, in mortal language?”

As the Goblin and High Kobold shook their heads, Haru caught my eye, her expression knowing.

Sure, I get it. You always make fun of me for enjoying explaining. Maybe… maybe that’s what drew Lin to me.

Honestly… I’d love to meet her. I’d have so much to ask her. Besides… she sounds very impressive. Before… I didn’t think women could be strong, could defeat men. We’re always the weaker sex, at their mercy. But… you’re right, Akio. Life isn’t fair, but… now we have a chance to make our own fairness.

“A network is a group or system of interconnected people or things.” My smile was triumphant. “On a smaller scale, each of us is a mess of connections and bonds. And those connections mediate power.” I created the dagger again, but in my other hand, I created a heavy machine gun. “Even systems that seem entirely arbitrary follow principles. No, likely that should be Principles. Capital P.”

I compared the two weapons, and the cost in aether to create and maintain them. “Size, weight, material composition, complexity, how they function… the gun uses significantly more aether than the dagger. Likewise, if I call on a fireball, the larger, the hotter, or if I wished to imagine Foehn… the aether scales up. Even the greatest soft magic of all in human stories, the wishes from a Genie’s magic lamp, follow a set of principles. They always work literally, and excessive greed involves consequences.”

I reminisced, thinking of all those who had helped me. Ulfuric, teaching me about combat, Tan, ever a fount of knowledge. Rose, who had opened a new door to me, and then cheekily claimed me for her own, provoking Lin to do the same…

Even Christina, with the research she provided. It wasn’t… ethical, and… I won’t forgive her for what she’s done, but getting a second set of data which tallies with my own does reassure me I’m on the right path. Annoying as she is, she’s got a brilliant scientific mind, and what she was researching, even without my Eyes or other advantages, was rather pertinent to the truth behind these events…

“Or maybe I should call them Laws, as they are above Principles. And we humans like to call things Laws too. Even if it’s been shown Material Laws can be affected by Astral, Spiritual ones…” I let the gun and dagger fade. “I’ll keep it short…”

“I dooo not believe that.” Hyacinth teased me, and I raised an eyebrow as she giggled. That was one of the biggest changes in her personality recently, she was more comfortable in expressing critical thoughts, even in humour. It seemingly didn’t come easy to her, but… Hell, I’m not always right. When I’m wrong I want to be rebuked, steered on the right path. And… a relationship without humour, without balance, is a hollow one. And I want more with Hyacinth, and more for Hyacinth.

“You’re probably right.” I agreed, smiling, the warmth I felt evident. “But I’ll try. Basically… be it Weal And Woe, Oath And Boon, Cultivation, elemental energies, Qi, Adherence… they all follow similar paths, and can be combined and integrated. They aren’t fundamental. If Arisu-san was here, she’d certainly explain it better than I could, but… we humans thought atoms were the root of everything. But we were wrong. Then protons, neutrons and electrons were the root of all the universe. But we were wrong again… at least in part. There were quarks… but even so, we weren’t totally wrong, as we still believe electrons are whole and indivisible. And at each stage, we could know more, do more, control more…”

“I see. Just as bronze is made from several metals and is stronger than either.” the High Kobold mused, waving his Lantern idly. “Knowledge of what is found within the earth and their uses… makes a great miner, who can achieve many things.”

“Exactly. So, in summary…” I winked at Hyacinth, who giggled. “…what I’m doing is trying to understand the Woe, and the balancing Weal. Brute force solves many problems, but… I think a more elegant solution is better.”

“And do you understand it?” Wanderer asked.

“Not fully, but… enough for a very interesting idea.” My grin turned wicked. “I’m sure you are prepared to risk it all for her, aren’t you?”

At my words, Wanderer nodded slowly, his eyes on Aine, in her frozen prison.

“Any of us would do so, it is known. For we are the Blood of the First, the Last of the First. As long as she lives… she wakes… one day, true Goblins can rise again. Better we wretched fakes perish, if the First awakens once more.”

“It shouldn’t come to that.” I promised. “When I help someone…”

“A girl…” Haru whispered theatrically, loud enough for everyone to hear, once more sparking Hyacinth into a fit of giggles.

“Someone…” I repeated. “…there’s no point just saving their life, healing their physical injuries. No, I don’t believe in doing such a half-assed job. I want to save their heart too. So…” Clapping my hands together, my Eyes shone, the effects of Shiro’s buff still lingering. “…this is what we’ll do…”

As I explained, Wanderer blinked at me, his yellow eyes wide. He soon agreed, however, and I couldn’t help but respect his bravery as I glanced at Aine, sleeping silently, once more. I wonder if she’ll be happy, to know that the few remaining Goblins descended from her line have protected her all these years, waiting for a day that seemingly would never come, when she would wake once more? I hope so. Or maybe she’ll just be sad, that they went through so much. Either way… I prefer happy endings…

***

“I think this one will-will suit Yukiko.” Shaeula grinned, looking at the rather daring white dress. She didn’t even look at the price tag, not that she had ever cared about such things before, considering her status as a princess of the Fae, and the fact the Fae didn’t really have a concept of currency. Sure, they had gold and used jewels, Princess Ffionnan was proof of that, but most of their wealth was sparkly fake baubles and fool’s gold, just like the myths.

Of course, now I don’t look at the price either. Compared to what we’ve spent on Pilgrimage, even a hundred designer dresses won’t cost near as much.

We were shopping in a luxurious, high-end store in Ginza. It was a recommendation from Hinata, of course. While she was no exception to the usual pattern of having her clothing tailor made, as was customary for noble daughters, she also did enjoy shopping as well, and also many of the designers they favoured sold their dresses and accessories in the stores here. I remember getting my anti-ballistic suit from an exclusive tailor who caters to the nobility from near here…

“Are you sure?” I asked, eyeing the dress. The fabric wasn’t just white, it shimmered iridescently like nacre, mother-of-pearl. It was also cut low, and would show off her neck and cleavage, as well as having a slit along the long skirt, revealing flashes of leg. “It’s a bit… bold for her.”

“Nonsense.” Shaeula shook her head, rolling her beautiful amber eyes. “This is where you must-must step up and learn the hearts of females.” Behind us, an extremely professional pair of female assistants were waiting in silence, carrying the dresses, handbags, and other accessories Shaeula had picked out. Despite it being her birthday., and thus she being the one to receive gifts, she had insisted on picking out presents for everyone else, enjoying a leisurely shopping trip with me. After this, we’ll be running between Material shrines. Ironically, it’s a lot faster than taking a car…

“Yukiko is shy, yes, and does not-not feel beautiful. But you yourself admit she has become rather-rather striking, no?” At my nod, Shaeula smirked triumphantly, waving the dress as she picked it up. “You have accepted her as your female, Akio, have you not-not? Therefore, you simply have-have to not only love her, but help-help her to grow, protect her heart too!”

As Shaeula repeated my words from the Fae realms unintentionally, I couldn’t help but smile. “You’re right. Yukiko’s pretty, if you ask me.”

“Best-best tell her she is beautiful.” Shaeula corrected me. “For even if she is not-not, she will become so, for you, and for her own-own pride. There are none-none of us who would stand being inferior. And even now… she is conflicted, for she believes she is troubling Tsukiko. Do you not-not know why?”

I did, and it amused me, the way women’s minds worked. I’d been told the same by Shiro and Eri before, and not just them. “Because even with her lack of confidence in herself… she hopes I’ll love her the most?”

“Exactly…” Shaeula held up the dress, giving me a better view of it. Obviously, Yukiko was quite a bit taller than Shaeula, but I could still get an indication. “…we are all-all the same. Though we compete fairly. We lift up-up, not press down. Even when we neglected Eri’s opinion over Adamant, we were not-not downplaying her achievements, merely… gathering some of our own.” She smiled impishly, though there was a trace of guilt showing in her eyes and pink cheeks.

“I know. So does Eri.” I didn’t like to dwell on the subject, so instead I considered the dress. “She’s no longer angry. In fact… it came at a good time. It’ll prevent such things happening in the future, where it could be more damaging. And… I see the value of Adamant. Not that you did a good job keeping it secret.”

As Shaeula tittered nervously, I spoke my thoughts on Yukiko. “I get it. You’re trying to get her to be bolder, more appealing. Honestly… I like her a lot as a person. She reminds me of Aimi-chan and Hina-chan. Despite being a Princess, she’s got an… ordinary feel to her. Like a uni student.”

“Technically, I believe she still-still is…” Shaeula grinned, happy to have avoided my ire. “…though whether she will-will finish her course is still undecided. But yes-yes… she is actually a rather good match for you, as females go. In both status, power and personality. So… be her male, take-take responsibility, and help-help her realise her true self, and grow her beauty. She will-will look spectacular in this dress, and you do-do wish to see her in it, no?”

I couldn’t deny it. She usually wore fancy shrine maiden hakama, or casual clothes. To see her dressing sexy would be fresh, and as we were engaged, there was no shame in it. “You win. Though… what bra would she wear under that? It’s daring at the back as well.”

One of the assistants helpfully piped up. “There are strapless styles that will work. We haven’t reached the underwear section yet…”

“Indeed we have not-not.” Shaeula grinned at me, licking her lips. “Of course we can not-not go shopping without buying everyone underwear. It is just-just a shame only I am here to model for you. Your imagination will have-have to suffice.”

Even the extremely professional assistants had to snicker at that, charmed as they were by Shaeula’s antics. I shrugged, experiencing the unique hell that every man had to go through, shopping for underwear with his girlfriend, only in my case it was multiplied.

“I am sure-sure Yukiko will be delighted to receive the dress… and embarrassed to receive undergarments.” Shaeula continued to tease me. “But imagine it. Not-not lewdly, though you can if you wish…” Her smile was wickedly teasing. “…but-but… will it not give Yukiko confidence, that you present her such, wish-wish to see her in it?”

I nodded, giving in. She’s right. What warms my heart most is seeing those I love bloom, grow their own strengths, be they physical or mental. And for their fears and insecurities to disappear, replaced by boldness and confidence. “Yeah, you’re right. And… how about a bolder colour too? She wears red and white too much.”

Agreeing, Shaeula helped me pick out a rather sexy black dress, this one showed off less cleavage, having tasteful golden lace around the chest, but the skirt was significantly shorter. With that decided on, I mused that I should pick out something for Eleanor as well.

“Yes, it would not-not be fair to leave her out. Though… I do think a little… teasing… is in order.” Shaeula started inspecting another array of dresses and gowns. It wasn’t hard for me to estimate a woman’s measurements now, so adjusting the dress to a more Western physique wouldn’t be too difficult for the impeccable staff here.

It didn’t take long to find a suitable pair of dresses. They were again rather daring, and while Eleanor certainly dressed less conservatively than Yukiko, she’d certainly be embarrassed to receive such from me. To say nothing of receiving underwear as a gift. That’s… quite the forward offering.

To actually get her the gift was possible. Sending goods to London through the Ring Gate required Ginneka’s aid, but it was easy enough, though Ginneka was always in demand. Once the aether invested in it by Laverna’s Favour wore off it would return to the Material, unless it was some sort of composite or the change was enough, as per Ixitt’s research.

“Now then-then…” Shaeula grinned. “We should go. Jewellery, then-then undergarments.”

I conceded, knowing there was no getting out of it. There was one concern though. “You’ve not picked out anything for yourself, have you?”

Shaeula winked. “Oh, but I have-have. But I did it quite-quite in advance. You will see later. Tonight.” She licked her lips again, her gaze on me hot. “Besides, I would-would hope you have a present for me yourself, since it is-is my birthday?”

“Of course.” I nodded. I did give Eri a set of armour and a weapon, and Daiyu a Spatial Storage Ring. I can’t shortchange Shaeula. It’s been difficult, what with the situations I’ve been in, but… well, thanks to Split Thoughts I’ve been able to gradually put it together while doing other things…

***

“I’ve teased out the strands connecting you to the Woe. But there’s also Weal too.” I pointed out. “It’s just a mess. But… I just want to change the Woe.”

Wanderer nodded, still a little confused. My explanation was certainly technical, backed by Hyacinth’s understanding. Despite that, this is all highly theoretical. But I’m not one to give up. I was the beneficiary of the resources my Territory was providing, and while I was draining reserves that had been built up over time to keep myself topped up, if I could succeed here it would definitely be worth it.

“All you need to worry about is if I make a mistake. But I’m confident that if you don’t die instantly from the backlash, I can fix you.” I gathered all my concentration, barring the thoughts with Shaeula in the Material, but fortunately flirting and buying clothes didn’t tax me much. Wanderer flinched, but he remained resolute, so I quickly began my work. Adherence Manipulation struggled, I certainly was brushing up against my limits, but with the ability to see what I was working on, rather than just feeling the presence of it, like Hyacinth did, I could carefully use the adherence that was gradually being pulled to me to interfere with the Woe.

It’s not about… destroying it. Not that way. It’s about…  Using strands of my adherence, I replicated as best I could the Woe connecting Wanderer to the mess of churning, dark adherence. When my Eyes couldn’t see the difference, I carefully sliced at the negative bond. At that instant I connected my newly forged strands of Woe, and the join solidified.

“Are yooou well?” Hyacinth asked me, as I blinked dumbly for a moment, surprised.

That’s… strange. I can feel her. She’s definitely still alive, but… the beat of her heart, her spirit is so painfully, terribly slow…

Moments later, Wanderer cried out in pain, clutching his forehead. Red and silver tears were leaking from his yellow eyes, and I immediately reached out to use Ether Healing, only to realise it wasn’t a Woe backlash, but a trickle of Weal blessing him. My Eyes took it all in, seeing his body fighting against the adherence that had become a part of his being, his subtle spiritual body. For a few seconds, it seemed like he would shake off the Woe, and we had succeeded, only for another bond to form, another tie of Woe connecting him back to Aine, and his pain passed, the backlash fading away.

I see. Even unconscious, you still cherish them. In that case, I have to respond. “A failure. But not a total one.” I remarked. “Time for the next test.” I severed the bond I had forged, and then I rocked, spitting blood, as the Woe rebounded on me violently. It was like being struck by a runaway truck, and my insides crumpled. Hyacinth and Haru both cried out in worry, but I waved a hand, showing them I was fine. Ether Healing and my high stats were already doing their work, and the injuries from the backlash soon faded.

“Well, that sucked.” I grimaced, reaching up to wipe the blood from my mouth, only for Hyacinth to jump in, blocking me. She had retrieved a handkerchief from somewhere, and she delicately cleaned my face.

“Foooooolish Akio.” Hyacinth criticised me, though her tone was soft. “Do nooot treat Woe lightly. Let Hyacinth pay it fooor you. I do not fear pain of the body, not anymore. Ooonly of the spirit, the heart.”

“Yeah, you’re certainly brave. Though it comes from a place I don’t like. Regardless… this was just a test, and…” I waited, but unlike with Wanderer, my makeshift tie to the greater Weal And Woe didn’t return. “…it’s not the result I wanted, but… it’s not a result I can’t work with.” My Eyes were powerful, though tracking the exact quantity of adherence around us was still impossible. I couldn’t tell if the amount had diminished, but my gut was telling me it had, minutely. Though there was still the problem of a steady inflow as it attracted other adherence.

“I could certainly withstand more.” I mused. “Though I think you’d have probably exploded, Wanderer.”

“So reckless.” Haru shook her head. “It’s one of your charms, I get that, but…” She glanced at Hyacinth sympathetically. “You say you want to protect the hearts of those you love. That action just wounded Hyacinth’s.”

Hyacinth agreed, nodding frantically, and Haru continued her lecture.

“I get that you are strong. Compared to when we first met, in those bitter circumstances, it’s like night and day. But no matter how strong you are, whether you can laugh at pain and suffering… would you laugh at mine, even when I joke about it?”

I shook my head. “Never. I know you are using humour to cope.  Whatever works for you, I support it. And if I can ever do anything, just ask, and I’ll see it done!”

“Oh, how brotherly you feel. I always wanted a brother or sister, but sadly… dad never got the chance.” She paused, checking my reaction. “Actually, I am still terribly sad about my mother’s untimely death. Of course I am. But… life goes on. Even when it doesn’t. Now that was a joke. Not one that makes you feel good though, was it?”

“You win. I apologise. But…” I glanced at Hyacinth. “…it’s no different to me not being happy when Hyacinth wishes to pay the Woe with pain. Then I feel equally hurt. But… I also feel damn proud. If there’s no other way, then I’ll share the burden, and afterwards, twice as much happiness or more, until the pain is forgotten. That goes for you too, Haru.”

“All right, enough of this.” Haru shook her head, though I could tell she was feeling bashful. Hyacinth knew too, as she reached out and patted Haru’s hand reassuringly. Good. That’s not something I can do. Physical reassurance is important, but coming from a man…

“So what did you learn?” Haru changed the subject. “Other than that you can shrug off that sort of injury?”

“I learned it’s not going to be simple. In theory, I could probably continue to use Wanderer here to take on the Woe a speck at a time, but with the little that is drained and the fact it’ll gradually recover… I don’t have years, or even weeks for this.”

Wanderer blinked. “You can do it? If it takes years?”

“Yeah. Definitely. It’s probably because the Woe is spread. It’s centred on her, but the Weal is too, keeping her alive, even in this state. And it is connected to… huh, a bit over three hundred…”

“So few of us remain. We dwindle, it is known.” Wanderer mourned.

“But what falls can rise again. Is that not your mantra?” the Kobold asked, and Wanderer nodded.

“I like that. I rose again.” Haru agreed with them. “So, Akio, what’s the next play?”

“This. Sorry Hyacinth, but…” She stopped my words with a fierce kiss, tongue squirming greedily in my mouth. When she parted, her pale, slightly grey skin flushed and sweating silver, she clasped my head in her hands, forcing me to peer into her deep, shimmering eyes of violet and silver.

“Dooo not shame me. I am nooot a slave, no more. I am my ooown self. You gave me the name, but… I decide who Hyacinth is. Let me help. Dooo some good. I… wish tooo love myself, as I love you!” She then turned away, smiling at Haru. “Yooou should too. It is hard, but… looove does conquer all. I knooow that now. Perhaps, even ooone day…” She turned back to me. “I need to knooow if this will work. Nooobody but you can do such a thing. Even the Gods knooow, yes? Tan, she believes. Prove to Hyacinth every moooment I spent in that box was not in vain, but… Woe to pay in advance for a lifetime ooof Weal.”

This time I kissed her. It wasn’t fierce, but gentle, and I stroked her trembling shoulders. “I don’t believe we need misfortune to balance fortune. If we work hard enough, we can make everyone happy. But… if you need to think that way, I’ll make it so. But… you don’t bear it alone. Because to me, that’s true torture.”

“Very well.” Hyacinth agreed. “I always knew yooou would say that. I had feared you would ask tooo take it all on alone. I could never allow that. Nooot because I am yooour maid, but… for the reasons you could never allooow that for me!”

“If I still had blood, I think it would be poisoned by all the sugar here…” Haru gagged. “It’s tough watching them, isn’t it?” she said to the Fae, who nodded at her. “…but I like the sentiments. I’m… a novice when it comes to romance, and… it’s far from my mind right now, but… a partnership seems healthier to me. Give and take. So… I’ll support. I expect you need me to link the pair of you?”

“Yeah.” I agreed. “But there’s no need for you to share Hyacinth’s thoughts and emotions. Just… act as a conduit, rather than dipping in yourself.”

“I’ve got it. But…” She frowned, as if struggling for words. “…I agree with Hyacinth, a little. It makes me sad to see you both suffer, even for a good cause. And I still owe you for… for what I forced you to share.”

I don’t like the way this conversation is going, but… even if it’s not in the right direction, she’s taking a step. No, who am I to tell her what’s healthy or not? That’s hubris, and I shouldn’t get ahead of myself. “Your offer is appreciated. We’ll see.” That was all I could commit to, and she raised an eyebrow mockingly.

“You hear that, Hyacinth? Big brother is putting his foot down. I don’t know how Aiko-chan puts up with him.”

As they bantered at my expense, I replicated my efforts from before, this time connecting Hyacinth, as if she was a Goblin. Her eyes narrowed, and she strode over to the crystal coffin, stroking the glass-like surface gently.

“I see. Yooou are sad, lonely. The darkness is indeed cooold. But feel my hand. It is warm. But… nooot as warm as his heart. Wake soon, little ooone. Like Hyacinth, yooou are lost to time. She has made… a rather large mess ooof things. Pitiful. Sad. It makes me… mooourn…” Silvery tears sprang forth, running down her cheeks, to drip onto the crystal. I was there then, this time the one to wipe Hyacinth’s face, and after a moment, she shook her head.

“I am well. I prooomise. Bad memories. But alsooo ones I must hold close. The past is a fog…” She tapped a finger on the frosted crystal. “But what I see through the obstruction is… not enough to shake my heart, nooot anymore. The darkness… darkness shared is just anooother kind of light. Mistress Daiyu always says sooo!”

“True. Now, are… are you ready?” I asked, hating the necessity of this, but Hyacinth merely grinned, her sour, contemplative mood melting away.

“Always. Are we nooot supposed to be training? I dare say we will grow stronger for the experience. I can nooot drain this sea alone. It is tooooo poisonous. But… many hands make light work!”

Her expression then changed, and she fell against me, breathing heavily. My Eyes could see the movement of adherence and aether, the swirling mass of Woe drawn into her, slowly at first, then with greater speed. Hyacinth was right, it was a trickle leaking through a massive dam, the lake deep behind it, but it was coming, and being absorbed, though I didn’t need my Eyes to see Hyacinth was suffering.

“Woe… can be paid. It is… a debt… to be fooorced on others. I hate it. It is not a connection of the heart, but ooof servitude, of domination.”

At that, my Eyes went wide. Yes, that’s it! A nagging doubt that had been eating at me, ever since I received my Bondweaver Class, and was designated as a Taker Of Paths Yet Unknown by gaining that Class too, had suddenly been resolved by her words. Yes, how they do it isn’t merely a bond, but an usurpation. Many to one, rather than one to many. It seems the same, but like Weal And Woe is mirrored both by Oath And Boon, and by itself… my Path is a reflection of theirs. Though… everything has balance. I can’t ignore that negative connections are still connections. But I weave Bonds, not shackles.

“Poor Hyacinth…” Haru mourned, before her brown eyes met mine, resolute. “Before you say anything, just don’t! Learn quickly, I don’t want her to suffer this any more than she has to!”

“I’m on it!” Hyacinth’s mind was connected with mine, her senses too. The pain was bearable, actually less painful than the Woe backlash from earlier, but the difference was, that was swift, this endured, and seeing I could take it, Hyacinth ground her teeth together, steeling herself, and the pain surged as her efforts continued.

“So… that’s… it?” I croaked, feeling how Hyacinth paid the Woe. I could do it too, I was part Fae, but neither Seelie nor Unseelie. Though, feeling what Hyacinth was doing… They’re just products of their own and others’ beliefs. Just as Hyacinth was a Brownie, then a Boggart, and now is simply herself… she’s shaped just like the Goblins…

Your Resilience has increased by One.

No time for that. I was getting more practised at forming links, and this third strand effortlessly connected me. I pulled on the Woe, drinking it in, and began to fumble around, trying to replicate Hyacinth’s efforts. Refreshing my memory on what Hyacinth could do with Weal And Woe, my Eyes blazed.

Fae of Light or Fae of Darkness, all are the same under the light of the Moon, the Fae realm eternally in Twilight. A Dweller in Twilight is neither of Light nor Darkness but claims both. Oaths, Pledges, Weal and Woe, all are the same to such a Fae, who eschews concepts such as Light and Dark, doing as their will dictates. The abilities of both Fae and Dark Fae can be utilised, and Woe can be paid in ways other than pain and suffering.

Yes, we could pay it with ether, or counteract it with adherence. But… Hyacinth would rather pay it in pain. And it seems that’s also more efficient.

Weal and Woe is an art of twisting Fate. Great blessings, the Weal, can be granted, the nature of these blessings depending on the nature of the wielder, and then the Woe must be paid, an equal or greater amount of suffering and harm. This is often paid by another. Should the Woe not be paid, Fate will backlash, snapping back into a proper course, inflicting three times the Woe upon the wielder, so the ability must be used with great care.

The art of manipulating Fate. Cause and Effect. It’s like borrowing money with violence. You can take from the weak and use their money to spend on your own happiness. But… steal from the strong, be unable to handle the consequences, and… you are paid back threefold…

At the least, burning the Woe into pain was three times as effective as simply taking it on myself and enduring the backlash. But… can’t I do both at once? This is a battle of speed. And not just because I’m too damn busy. As the adherence is drained, it’ll have an impact on the extra amount it draws in. It should be an exponential effort…

Your Resilience has increased by One.

Hyacinth smiled at me despite the pain. “Compared tooo the… tender… ministrations of the Dark Maidens… this is nothing. Besides…” She reached out, gripping my hand tightly, her elegantly trimmed and varnished nails scraping my skin. “…we are nooot alone.”

I nodded. “Absolutely. Compared to some of the past horrors we’ve faced, like in Kyoto… this is nothing.”

I concentrated, and soon, I was able to mimic Hyacinth.

You have gained a Class, Dweller In Twilight.

Your Class, Dweller In Twilight has evolved to become part of your Bondweaver Class. Charm has Increased by Two, Majesty has increased by Two. Your League can not increase. Your affinity for Light, Darkness and all composite Elements of this nature has significantly increased.

Your Skill, Weal And Woe, has advanced from Rank 2 to Rank 4…

Your Resilience has increased by…

Your Determination has increased…

Feeling the pressure within me, it counterbalanced the pain. Ether Healing thrumming as I continually severed the connection of Weal I had mimicked, causing backlash, I grinned.

Akio! Are you all right? Eri’s concerned thoughts, clearly able to hear echoes of my pain, sounded, and I reassured her I was fine.

Yeah. It’s only… a bit of discomfort. I played it down. Besides, it’s excellent training. Hyacinth and I are reaping the rewards…

Haru rolled her eyes again, and Hyacinth giggled, a sharp edge to her tone, as Haru must have shared my thoughts with her too. Squeezing her hand, I continued to talk to Eri through Lovers’ Link.

It’s fine. Really. This won’t break us. You know that.

Is… is there anything I can do to help? Can’t I take away some of your pain?

No. Not this time. You have your own tasks and training to do. Though there is one thing… if Christina is truly committed to this… get her to return to the Boundary and come to the mansion. I’ll certainly not force her, but…

She’ll do it. I don’t like her, not at all… but I don’t think she’s one to back down. So annoying… leave it with me, she’s bothering Kudou Shiori-san’s group today, I think…

Great. I’ll see you… tonight. Shaeula has plans.

Yes. So you’d better not be ruining her birthday. If you do, you’ll spend your whole life making it up to her. We girls never forget, neither kindness, nor disappointments. Keep… keep Hyacinth safe, okay?

That final admonition ringing in my thoughts. I rolled my eyes at Hyacinth, who smirked teasingly, having heard everything thanks to Haru. She was also hiding a giggle behind one hand, before she let out a sigh.

“Eri-chan really is a good girl. She’s so jealous, but she looks out for everyone. Now… you can do this, can’t you?”

It seemed Wanderer and the High Kobold were doubting us too, and I managed a shrug. “There are two types of impossible tasks. Moving a mountain and draining the ocean. You can move a mountain. All it takes is breaking off one rock at a time and carrying it away. But draining the ocean is futile, as the rain fills it up again. This may seem like draining the ocean, but it’s actually not. As we dry it up, the rain will slow. We just need to outpace it.”

“Yes.” Hyacinth agreed. “Besides, yooou poor little Goblins are in a sooorry state. So few left…” Her words sounded insulting, but her tone was kind. “…the Woe hangs thick and heavy over the poor child inside, but… it is not the ooocean we are draining, merely a lake…”

“That still seems bad enough…” Haru fretted, as I was still experimenting on Wanderer’s connection to this Woe, all but one of my Split Thoughts turned to this punishing mess.

“Yeah, it’s not great. But… there’s still the Weal which lingers. Perhaps we can turn that to our advantage as well…” It sure would be a delight. I’m already over this, and the occasional stat boost I’m getting doesn’t make it any more fun…

***

Shaeula Tu Shae Dannan, Tokyo

“You seem discomforted, hmm? I hope you are not-not distracted. Your attention should be on me, yes?”

“Sorry.” Akio sighed. “My attention is on you, I promise. It’s just the rest of me is feeling like I’m drinking molten lead right now.”

“How-how… delightful.” I was lost for words for a moment, before I realised this was nothing new. “You can-can handle it, I presume?”

“Yeah. Worst case, we fail and try again another time.” he assured me. “This proves the method will work, and it might have other uses later.”

“I see-see.” We had just bought a significant amount of jewellery, not just for Akio’s females, but also for others I felt I wanted to give gifts to, such as Arisu, Haru, Chiaki, Chiasa and more. We were now followed by four assistants, and the store manager, a smartly dressed, still handsome female in her late forties, was trailing us like an eager puppy, clearly delighted at what Akio had cheekily called my ‘reckless and royal’ spending.

It is no good simply hoarding wealth, lest we end up like that miser Princess Ffionnan. No, even she has been persuaded to invest her wealth, and she will certainly see a good return on it.

“If you insist you are well, I can not-not argue. Since I am… a kind-kind female, I shall soothe your spirit and distract you from your pains.”

Our next destination was the lingerie department, and while Akio did complain that it was hardly soothing, he did admit it was distracting.

Just as planned. “This one will suit Kana, I do-do believe.” I pulled a bright red bra and panties from the selection.

“Uh… I don’t think I’m at the stage I should be buying Kana underwear…” He tried to decline, but I shook my head firmly.

“Nonsense. Perhaps if you asked her to model it for you, she might-might be embarrassed. But we both know she still would, do we not-not?”

“Yeah… maybe.” Akio was annoyingly distracted, not even commenting on the sheer nature of the fabric. I clicked my tongue, considering my next move, as I retrieved a suitable set of undergarments that Yukiko would be able to wear with her new gown. My eyes then caught sight of something very interesting.”

“Akio, I am quite-quite parched. Do go fetch me a drink, if you would?”

The manager eagerly took Akio away. We were the only guests here today, so were getting personal service, and more importantly… I can go all out. “I shall try that on…” I insisted, pointing to the underwear in a delightful black and purple. I did not usually wear such dark colours, favouring oranges, whites and pale reds, but sometimes a change of style was welcome.

“Of course, your skin is so pale, and your hair… it’s simply gorgeous!” One of the assistants made to touch my hair, but I batted her hand away.

“My apologies. I do not-not care to be touched, except by Akio and my fellow sisters, of course.”

“Sorry. I forgot myself.” She apologised, mortified. “You were just so cute. We pride ourselves on our service, if you want a written apology…”

“No-no need.” Now my hand was waved dismissively. “I do indeed know I am most-most adorable. But I am also prideful. And not-not for other’s hands.” As the attendants blushed, my Charm too much for them, I grinned. “Speaking of… I shall-shall change now. Do not-not let Akio suspect. He has many cares, shoulders many-many burdens. I would relieve what few I can.”

“That’s sweet. I saw you on TV, you know.” One of the retinue following me spoke up. “But you are more beautiful in person. But… don’t you worry? I saw yesterday’s broadcast too. I’m a loyal watcher of WTV now!” she insisted proudly. “He’s getting engaged to our Imperial Princess, isn’t he? He’s so much more regal than Prince Gorohito… and he looked great together with Princess Mikasa…”

“Yes, Yukiko and Akio do indeed have some… chemistry… I believe you call-call it?” I stepped inside the changing room and pulled the curtain. I did not much care if these women saw me undress, though Akio could be endearingly jealous sometimes, but I needed to maintain the surprise. “As for me worrying? I think not-not. I myself am a princess and have already won his heart. I am magnanimous…”

I hung the yukata I wore on the hooks, before easing down my panties. I seldom wore a bra, except under certain dresses where it was a necessity to prevent accidents, but… the contrast to what is normal should appeal to him. And he most certainly needs it. I am indeed magnanimous, he should be spoiling me, not me spoiling him. Oh well…

I licked my lips, eager. I was hardly complaining, sometimes it was a treat to take charge. While I had certainly mellowed, having the poise a true princess should have, I did still enjoy being forceful at times. Quickly pulling on the panties, I then hooked the bra around my modest chest. I do not see the worry the others have over their breasts. Akio loves them all, be they small or large. I certainly feel my slender frame is quite an advantage, when it comes to appealing to Akio.

Admiring myself in the mirror, my opinion hardly changed. And the assistant was right. The black and purple did indeed look gorgeous against my creamy skin and rich amber hair. Stretching, I took several poses, waiting for Akio to return. When I heard his voice, I could not help but grin, anticipating his reaction.

“Where’s Shaeula?” he asked, and in that moment, I pulled back the curtain, stepping out grandly, my back straight, chest puffed out, a seductive, teasing smile on my lips. Akio blinked, eyes going wide with shock, and the dull, throbbing ache I could see within his grey eyes faded for a moment, replaced with surprise and admiration for my beauty.

Spoiler

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I have achieved my goal. I should be the largest matter in his thoughts today, and not even pain or important tasks should change that.

“So, do you like-like what you see, Akio?” I spread my arms, showing off, and his own smile was matching mine. He rushed over and pulled me into a hug, heedless of the giggles of embarrassment and amusement from the assistants.

“Always.” He caressed my back gently, not forgetting to softly grope my bottom, which made me gasp in anticipation. No, not here. Not yet. Later. “And thanks. For the distraction.”

“Think-think nothing of it.” I was elated, enjoying the closeness I craved. “Later, I shall-shall distract you so thoroughly you shall not-not think of anything but me! For now though… just what-what do you think?”

“Gorgeous!” he admitted, and I flushed, my heart hammering in my chest.

Yes. I am indeed. And you… you are as handsome and desirable a male as I could ever ask for. We are simply perfect together, and naught shall change that…

“Now, we shall simply have to choose more-more undergarments.” I smirked, pushing my advantage. “There are still many-many females to choose for. It saddens me we can not-not send gifts to your Valkyries, but… I can think perhaps of one-one more who we should choose for. While she can-can use Shiro’s… no female would wish her first-first time to be in borrowed undergarments.”

As Akio froze at my teasing implications, I continued our embrace. “And then…” I whispered in his ear. “Make-make yourself scarce. While I do quite-quite like these, the surprise is gone. I would pick-pick another set or two for… later…”