On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

The first shrines we stopped at were rather straightforward. For shorter distances between, we used the armoured buses to move the group. For longer jumps, such as to Nishimorioka, as it was in the middle of the mountains, and not the interesting kind of mountains people visited, so the roads weren’t the best, we used Arisu-san’s Room. She was cold about it as always, but she barely reacted when Shiro did her usual teasing, calling her tsundere about it.

The Pilgrims had also become numb to it. I remembered how many of the members of Adamant, or Yu-mi’s South Korean recruits, were all wide-eyed and shocked when first being ushered into her Room, with its strange, ever-shifting internal geometries bent to her will, and positively stunned by the fact that when they emerged, they were often a hundred miles or more away from where they entered.

I guess we can get used to anything, with enough exposure. Honestly though, it makes me wonder… would it be easier for us modern, educated people to accept such, or… if the Boundary started to dissolve in, say, the seventeenth century, would the superstitious and unlearned populace just go with it? Of course, we’d have nobody as skilled as Arisu-san then, I’m sure. Space and the manipulation of it would be far beyond their understanding…

Using my Astral body, I was spending my time studying the crystal element that Suk-ja had bequeathed to me. Daiyu had a good grasp of it, but due to the way she generated the element as Qi, it wasn’t ideal for storing. If I could finally master it, then Suk’ja’s contract would be up, and she could get home to her older childhood friend, and her fellow Guildmates. I wish her good luck in making Choi Ji-ho realise his feelings for her. He seemed the dense sort if you ask me, though… I imagine Eri would rage if she heard me say that. Still, I know she’s not been in Japan long, but she missed out on Christmas with them, so… maybe she can return for the New Year? Pilgrimage will be done and she’ll have gained a lot of benefits, as well as a decent wage…

Setting my efforts at learning it aside, which was proving troublesome, but now all my attention was diverted to it, hardly insurmountable, I considered my sis. She’d been working hard, most definitely, so would surely crack gold element soon. She wouldn’t want me to let her win, I’m sure, but… perhaps it might not matter.

Concentrating on sensing the subtle, almost contradictory nature of crystal, I at least had the experience with radiance. That was another light composite element, and the two were actually very similar. Radiance imbued the power of the flame into the form of light, whereas earth… that solidified the power of light. Water and wind… had similar properties, liquefying and turning gaseous respectively, though there were of course nuances to the effects. Solid light. Arisu-san hates the very concept, deeming it impossible, but… we know it isn’t. And judging from jade element, when mutated, other energies can also be solidified in with it. Yeah, I’m not too far off a breakthrough, I’ve just been too busy to give it my full attention…

Arisu-san’s Room opened, and I smiled at Shaeula, who was next to me, her amber eyes bright and eager. As the slash in space opened up to the vista of very familiar scenery, scenery that a dozen years of my life had as a backdrop, I could hear an excited, muted buzz, and that soon resolved into sight of a crowd, or rather, a mob, perhaps.

“It seems like the whole-whole town has come out to greet us.” Shaeula squeezed my hand, and not to be outdone, Tsurugi clasped my other tightly, silver eyes sparkling, eager as she was to see where I grew up.

“I am not-not surprised…” Shaeula continued with a pleasant trill of laughter. “…after all, Nishimorioka’s finest have returned. And not-not just them…” She winked at me, before glancing at the nervous, yet somehow still composed Marika-chan, who, in her pristine shrine maiden attire, gave off an aura of wisdom and composure far above her tender years. Shiori-san and the Takakura sisters were with her, as was Kana, who winked at me, mouthing that she’d keep an eye on Marika-chan. Keomi-chan and Hotene-san were with them too, as were the survivors of the original trainees, and the newer ones, such as the sisters from Shirohebizumi shrine.

“…we have quite-quite the embarrassment of distinguished shrine maidens here. It shall be a festival, I am sure. I am only-only disappointed we will be here but-but a brief moment.”

“Yeah. Soon we’ll have some time to relax, I promise. Soon!”

“Oh, I have no-no doubt. But I surprise myself. I do so-so enjoy keeping busy, if it is for a good-good cause.” She winked again, amber eyes full of mirth. “Do not-not think I have been idle, Akio. I may not-not have received such a fortuitous chance like Hyacinth, though I do not-not mean to disparage her, that opportunity only came due-due to her own strengths and will… but yes, I shall not-not let her stay ahead of me for long. You shall-shall see!”

“I bet I will.” We let Marika-chan step out first, leading the shrine maidens, and I saw her mother, Takeyabashi Junko-san, her father, who was a fairly non-descript man with little presence… I daresay Junko-san holds the reins in that family. She’s certainly… feisty. Marika-chan’s two sisters were there, bundled up in winter coats against the cold, expressions full of eager wonder, and of course, Marika-chan’s grandfather was waiting in his priestly attire to greet us.

“If you will all follow me, we will proceed to Chairoakitara shrine. It is… humble, so forgive us, but it is a true shrine, with a true Kami. And it has the great honour of being the home shrine of the Oshiro family, so that has much meaning.” Marika-chan politely led everyone out, and as the shrine maidens led the way, Marika-chan’s two sisters came rushing over. If I remember correctly, Mariko-chan said her sisters were… Sumire-chan, the oldest, and Ayame-chan, the middle daughter… I guess Junko-san really likes names that refer to flowers… It didn’t seem right to call Marika-chan’s sisters by -san, when she was definitely a -chan, and while I tended to be quite reserved, I’d grown used to being far less formal and more friendly with strangers nowadays. Even I can grow. If I didn’t, I’d never survive, I’m constantly surrounded by people, those I know and those I don’t…

“Marika-chan!” Sumire-chan cried out, rushing over and hugging her, which made the younger girl flush a little, though she was far too polite to squirm in her sister’s grasp. The middle daughter followed, and seeing all three together, you could definitely see the resemblance in terms of hair colour, facial features and overall appearance, but… their temperaments were completely different, the older two far more open and playful. “Oh, whoa, so many shrine maidens. And… and…”

“Over there! Isn’t… isn’t that…” Yukiko had stepped out, and they, as well as the large crowd, gaped at her in shock and awe. I saw many familiar faces in the crowd, from the classmates of my sis and Eri, through to my old friend from school Imai-san and his wife, who was holding their young child, bundled up like a mummy in thick coat and scarf. There were those I’d played baseball with, the elderly folks who ran most of the small stores and shops… Yeah, the whole town is out to greet us.

“I’m more interested in… oh, it’s Red and White! Tamami-chan! And AKB! There’s Suzu from Suzumebachi too!” Ayame-chan released her hug, and swooned as the idols flooded out, as if she was going to faint from happiness. “It’s really happening! At our family shrine! I thought it was all stupid and old-fashioned…”

“Come now…” Marika-chan complained, while Keomi-chan giggled softly, pointing at the spectacle and nudging the taciturn Hotene-san, trying to make her smile, and in the end she did, though it was rather an exhausted one.

“…you know I do not like you speaking that way. Our shrine is an old and honourable one…”

“Yes, yes, you’re cute, little sis!” Sumire-chan teased her. “But comeon, our shrine’s going to be on TV, and the town’s having an idol performance…”

“Only four songs.” Marika-chan insisted. “We can hardly linger, we have many more shrines and temples to visit, you know!”

“It’s… just good to see you.” Junko-san managed. “You’ve been well?”

“Mother, it has only been a day. I was back for Christmas.” Marika-chan finally showed an age-appropriate reaction, face pink, lips in a pout, before she quickly reverted to her mature persona, pushing off her grinning sister and straightening her hakama. “When Pilgrimage is over, I will return home for a week before school starts again.”

“I know. It’s just… honey, say something.”

Marika-chan’s father, Gota-san, shrugged. “What’s to say, dear? Look around. Our little Marika’s important now.” He nodded at me with some grudging respect, as I left Arisu-san’s room, just after she herself had stepped out, accompanied by her camera and sound crew. She rushed off, gathering up all the idols, who would be making their offerings in both Material and Boundary first, before putting on a brief show. Arisu-san was then narrating a tour of the shrine and its history, as well as… as well as the history with my sis, Eri and me. Yeah, hilariously embarrassing, but just like Shirohebizumi shrine, it’ll be properly documented for the world to see, fulfilling my promises to the Kami…

“She is indeed.” Shiori-san bowed politely. “I am Kudou Shiori, granddaughter of Kudou Yasuhide, of the faith. Your daughter comports herself with dignity, and honours both your Kami and the Gods…”

I silently thanked Shiori, and the Takakura trio, as Mizuki-san couldn’t help but butt in as always, for providing a distraction, as I tried to slip away with Shaeula and Tsurugi, Yae and Rika-chan following behind, only to get caught out not just by the smirking Imai-san, but by Kosuke-san, Yae’s older brother, who resembled her, except for his hair being dark brown and his fashion sense being far more… ordinary. It seemed Yae’s parents were in the crowd but giving her space, and I saw Rika-san wave to hers, clearly embarrassed, though far from as embarrassed as Yae was.

“So, the man of the moment.” Kosuke-san chuckled. “You’re treating my little sister right, I hope? Honestly, she did nothing but talk about you up until now. You’re a real lady-killer, Oshiro-san.”

“Call me… Akio.” I conceded. “It wouldn’t feel right otherwise. And Yae’s… doing well.”

“Is she?” he grinned at her, as she tried to hide behind us. “Nice uniform, little sister, very military. Not like your usual fashion sense! You look as pretty as ever in it though. But…” He glanced at Yukiko, Shaeula, and also at Eri and my sis as they ran into their classmates, who stopped them to talk and catch up. “…it’s a bit mean of me, as your brother, but… you’re outclassed, Yae.”

As Shaeula laughed at that, and Tsurugi tilted her head, puzzled, Yae flushed a deep crimson. “Oh, shut it, you jerk.” Her lips twisted into a pout. “You think I don’t know that? Shouldn’t you be supportive of your idiotic little sister’s quest to find love? I’m working hard, you know! And Ai and even Ri-Ri…” She glanced at me, before shutting her mouth. Rika-san then patted her shoulder comfortingly, before winking at Kosuke-san.

“…hey, Kousuke-kun, looking good. Don’t bully Yae-chan too much, okay? She’s putting everything into this. You know us, lazy slackers, but Yae-chan trains every day. And she won the right to wear the uniform, even if she played on her friendship with Ai and Ri-Ri. So she’s… halfway there, I guess? Though compared to some of the other members…” She grinned at the departing idols. “You’re not Akio-kun, so I’ll be careful how I say it, but… if there was a girl like Yae-chan who wasn’t your sister, assume she was me, or instead, say Kanzaki-chan from AKB0048, or Tamami-chan from Red and White… who’d you go for?”

“Whoa, that’s cold, Rika-chan. My sister will be crying herself to sleep tonight.”

“Oh shut it, you!” Yae kicked her brother in the shins, and seemed satisfied when at first he imagined it wouldn’t hurt, but then he flinched, her strength, even though she clearly pulled the blow, that of a professional soldier. “You don’t win a battle crying about your opposition!”

“I get your point, Rika-chan.” Kosuke-san surreptitiously rubbed his leg against the other, trying to appear unbothered. “But really, we’re talking Akio-kun here, aren’t we? Seems to me he doesn’t have to choose, nor does he. Winner takes all, right? I don’t quite know how to feel about that. I want my sister to be happy, but… well, as a man, I feel conflicted.”

“No kidding.” Imai-san chuckled. “I was shocked enough when you brought Shaeula to Nishimorioka, back in that summer which seems years ago now, with all the shit that’s happening in the world.” His smile was oddly wistful. “Mori-chan confessing was less of a shock, honestly. Only that the notoriously shy childhood friend of yours managed to speak up for herself. But since then… damn, I can dine out on the fact I used to hang with the Hero of Britain. Speaking of… where’s Princess Eleanor… uh… whoa…” As the last of those within the Room stepped out, and the space vanished in a puff of purple sparks, out came Mae, Hana and other Yōkai such as Kinneka, and the two Oni, who Nie Ling had allowed a taste of the Material.

“…their tits are huge… ouch, Chiyoko, my love, my light, pulling on my ear like that hurts a lot…” Seeing his wife be frustrated at his ogling of the admittedly impressive sight of Mae and Hana in their strained kimono, Imai-san tried to protest. “I meant… they’ve got tails! Foxgirls, aren’t they?”

“I’m not deaf, darling.” Chiyoko’s smile was scary. “I heard you cry out about their breasts. Are mine not good enough for you?”

As they bickered, Kosuke-san chuckled. “I’ve seen it all now. I count nine tails. I bet she’s called Tamamo-no-Mae…”

“You would indeed-indeed be correct.” Shaeula chortled. “And no, she is not-not an imposter, but the genuine, mythical article!”

 “You sure you like Akio-kun, little sister? I’m seeing a great deal of disappointment in your future…” Kosuke-san asked, and Yae shrugged.

“Just the way it is. I won’t lie and say it’s easy. But…” Yae brightened, and smiled at me, and it was rather lovely, a genuine, happy expression. “…I can’t ever say any day is boring now. And my future career’s all set. I’m not going to be some lazy housewife, or waste away working in one of the rundown dumps here. I’m going places, brother, I’m going places! In rather shocking company…”

“She’s not kidding.” Rika-san shuddered, eyeing the two massive Oni, who were calling for booze. Luckily there were plenty of barrels amongst the shrine offerings, so soon the two of them were grinning as they scooped out handfuls of sake and drank noisily, looking around the Material world and enjoying intimidating the crowd. I’d warned them to behave, and more to the point, so did Mae… it’ll be fine…

“Me, I’m… happy just being a friend of Ai’s, Ri-Ri’s, Akio-kun… and honestly, Shaeula and the others are all really nice…” As Shaeula nodded proudly, Rika-san smiled cheekily. “…well, so long as you know your place around Akio-kun, that is. I guess I’ll be working for them too when I graduate. It’s no bad thing, I always wanted to move to the big city. Never thought that city would be Tokyo though…”

“Catching up is great and all, but we’re on a tight schedule.” I interrupted the banter. “And you wouldn’t want to miss the concert, it’d be a shame.”

“True, we don’t get much entertainment here…” Imai-san was rubbing at his swollen, reddened ear, while his wife smiled faintly with satisfaction. “…and I am definitely not enamoured with cute idols, my darling! A childhood sweetheart, a junior at school, is every guy’s dream! Just ask Akio-kun, he’s got his Mori-chan!”

Leaving them to banter, Shaeula, Tsurugi and I joined the others in the procession up the mountain towards Chairoakitara shrine. The townsfolk followed behind us in festive mood, though, as I neared the shrine, seeing it had been done up as though this was indeed a festival, paper lanterns and other decorations hung impeccably, a familiar face stepped out from behind the gathered crowd, his expression hard, angry and bitter.

“You pair.” Kenji-san spat, his brown eyes filled with disdain, his short-cropped hair, usually shaved for baseball, now growing out, as his final games as a high-schooler had passed, now his final exams were upon him.

“Can you not-not count?” Shaeula mocked. “There are three of us here.” Fortunately, Yae’s ex-boyfriend had wisely decided to skip this confrontation, much to her relief, and she and Rika-san hung back behind us to avoid getting involved.

“I don’t know or care about the little girl!” Kenji-san dismissed Tsurugi. “All I know is… you piece of shit! Have a good laugh bullying me with superpowers and magic, did you? What a big man you are, humiliating a kid…”

“A kid, huh? I don’t know your birthday, but… you’re at least eighteen. You might even be nineteen now. Sure, technically you’re not an adult here until twenty, but you’re no kid. In Britain you’d be a full adult, a lot of other countries too. Hell, even here, you can join the JSDF and see combat.”

“So, you’re…” he began, but I cut him off.

“I’m what? Older? So what? Let’s be real here. You challenged me, because you knew I was out-of-shape and rather shitty at sports. You expected to stomp me with your superior skills and experience. And then you moan like a whiny brat when I turn the tables? I didn’t cheat, I used no magic, as you’d consider it. Just the superior strength I gained through harder, riskier training than you ever put in for sport. But even if you were a kid, a middle school brat, I’d have put you in your place, because my sister can do better than you! If you had a good reputation, and she liked you, I’d have stood aside and maybe even cheered you on…”

“Sure-sure you would have…” Sheula whispered, deliberately loud enough for me to hear, but I ignored her.

“…but all it boils down to is… I won, you lost. And honestly, there’s no shame in defeat. It’s all about the attitude. Now, if you’re just going to be petty, get lost. We’ve got business at the shrine.”

As I brushed past him, Shaeula spared him a regal glance, before actually giving him some advice. “There is no-no shame in losing to Akio. Better-better males than you have, in far-far more dire circumstances. Has Akio not-not been mocked all those years for his lack of aptitude? If so, endure a little shame yourself and grow-grow. Aiko has no-no interest in you, which is understandable, and not-not just because of your attitude…” she snorted ruefully. “…but the world is wide, and there are many-many to love. Improve yourself and try again. And if you ever-ever want to challenge Akio again…”

“Yeah, I don’t mind.” I conceded. “If you take one lesson from your defeat, it should be that protecting those you love, your family, your friends… there’s no bullying, there’s only succeeding. Though I do admit, I did feel rather like a jerk afterwards. It’s not my proudest moment, but…”

Kenji-san glanced at Yae, who sighed. “I wanted to be left out of this. Honestly, Masaki-kun’s not a bad guy, but he did a worse thing. Gambling me for money just because he thought he’d win… even if he did, I think that would have ended our relationship. You know what maturity is, Kenji-kun?”

As the young man blinked, waiting for her answer, Yae smiled gently. “It’s Aki here not betting his sister even though he knew he’d win. There’s a distinction. When you get that, you’ll grow up.”

“Now I’m getting lectured by one of the dumb bimbo duo…” he grumbled, and Yae merely laughed.

“Yeah, no kidding. I’m not very smart. But I’m fun, honest and loyal, you know? Anyway, unlike Ri-Ri and Ai, Rika-chan and I haven’t moved to Tokyo, so we’ll be back for our final exams. If you need any more advice from us pair of beautiful fools…” her smile was wicked. “…feel free to ask us then. But seriously, if you don’t want to be a loser at our future class reunions, best stop whining. If you want to challenge Aki, think of a way you could win. There might be something you can beat him at. Anyway, catch you later, nice to see you, Kenji-kun. Give my regards to Masaki-kun, I could tell he was hiding in the crowd.”

We left a speechless Kenji-kun behind, and as I smiled at Yae, she tipped her military-style Adamant cap at me. “Don’t look so shocked, Aki. Sure, Kenji-kun’s a fairly shitty boyfriend, from what I’ve heard the other girls say, but you shouldn’t throw stones in glass houses, I’ve heard Ai say that! I’m not saying you’re bad, I mean, I’m not exactly subtle, am I? But you do have more girlfriends right now than he’s ever had. But yeah… I get that you’re unhappy with having to slap him down, so… I’ll play nice, soothe your conscience. After all, I am Adamant! It’s in the job description to meet your needs!”

“Yae-chan’s ascending to her final form!” Rika-san giggled. I couldn’t help but nod, amazed at how she’d changed recently. While I understood both the stated, and the actual, purpose of Adamant, it did seem to have done wonders for Yae’s confidence, as well as her charm. Or should that be Charm? Her Kami-Blessed Class must be nearly capped out, as she had already obtained it from Chairo, surely…

“Nope. Not until I make Officer rank. And not just Marquise! I want Asscher! Well, honestly, I’m looking for Princess, I want my sixth jewel, but…” she giggled. “…I’ll not pressure you, Aki! Come on, Rika-chan, we’ve got to get moving! I don’t want to be the ones to hold up the schedule, Arisu-chan’s very, very scary…”

“Indeed she is.” Shaeula agreed. “Come then, Akio, Tsurugi, we shall-shall once more pay our respects.” She winked slyly at me. “I do-do hope you have overcome your distaste of dogs?”

“Yeah, I think I’m largely over it now.” I grinned ruefully. “Anyway…” I glanced over at the two Oni. “Let’s grab our pair of muscle-headed idiots. Oh, and my sis… since she brought our new Oni friend in.”

Shaeula nodded. “Indeed. Quite-quite the shrewd move. While it is rather-rather wicked of me to say I do not-not overly trust Oni, being as I am a Yōkai and member of the Parade myself… they can-can be… impulsive.”

“No shit.” I laughed. “And I guess anyone that’s interested in Red isn’t going to be any calmer. All right then, let’s go…”

***

The crowds of Nishimorioka residents lined the route to the shrine behind us in the Material, though, as the shrine family, Marika-chan’s parents and sisters accompanied her and their grandfather in to receive the offerings. I could see the look of shock in their faces as the tributes piled up, and I remained in the Material to help guard the tents in which groups were diving into the Boundary. I saw Major Sasaki and Lieutenant Nakano, and the later gave me a rather tired nod, clearly having had no rest cleaning up the mess up north.

In the Boundary, my sis appeared, and on seeing me holding the bluesteel battery, shimmering with the cool purple energies, she frowned, pursing her lips. “Oh yeah, forgot you can be in two places at once. Wow, bro, you really want to stick it to your adorable sister on this bet, don’t you? Maybe I should be worried, giving you a demand I can’t refuse…”

“Oh really?” I raised one eyebrow, grinning. “Didn’t I already say I wouldn’t refuse any of your demands, no matter what it was, on Christmas Eve? I still have our treasured proof of that…” I patted my pocket theatrically, and her blush deepened.

“Way to bully me, bro. Good job. Anyway, even so, I’m feeling pretty damn confident, you know? Got a secret weapon, learned from Eri.” She winked, trying to play it cool. “Anyway… where are… oh.”

 The two hulking Oni, Red and Blue, appeared. Looking around, Red grunted. “It still feels strange, being on hallowed ground. The Gods would surely be furious. Not that I care. Got the invite.” His grin was feral. “Bit of a dump though. What’s this, some sort of hound worshipping shrine?” He glanced around at the giant statues of dogs, as well as the usual Komainu guardian statues many shrines possessed.

“Ya might want to shut up, ya know?” Blue grumbled. “So, where’s this Oni who thinks Red isn’t a dumb fool?”

As they bickered, my sis grinned. “Hey, it takes all sorts, doesn’t it? It’s a bit like my bro now. Red’s sort of a celebrity as Oni goes, isn’t he? You are too. It’s like Tamamo-no-Mae, right? I had a picture book of your story as a kid. Though I’ll be honest, you’re nothing like that tale.”

“True.” I agreed. “Red and Blue would just beat the humans until they agreed to be their friends, rather than pull any clever ruses.”

“Huh…” Red rumbled, irritated. “Who would want to be friends with weaklings?”

“Hey, aren’t we humans?” I suggested. Moments later, Shaeula appeared, having made her offerings, even though it didn’t seem she could get the Class. She doesn’t want to be left out, which is rather cute.

“Still arguing, I see-see. How typical.” Shaeula smirked. “Times have changed, Red. There is no-no need to be so hidebound and inflexible. Now-now then… I too am curious to see this foolish Oni…”

“Ya, quite the fool…” Blue agreed, chortling loudly, the sound like rocks crashing together.

“I think… yeah, probably this way.” My sis led us out of the main shrine, to a small outbuilding. “She didn’t like entering shrines, guess it’s a Yōkai thing. Which is odd, considering there are Yōkai priests, right? “

“Ya, that big bastard, the Grand Hitotsume Nyūdō, and his disciples, they’re the ones ya think of, but there are others. That dumb Kanibōzu is Ninety-Third, isn’t he? So damn annoying though.” Blue waved a meaty hand dismissively.

“I agree.” Red smirked, showing his tusk-like fangs. “Crab goes wonderfully with sake. I get the urge to tear the bastard’s leg off and have a feast every time I see the bastard. All he does is those stupid riddles.”

“Ninety-Three? Quite-quite pitiful!” Shaeula couldn’t help but boast, and that got a laugh from the pair of Oni. My sis knocked on the door of the dilapidated outbuilding, and a grumpy voice answered her.

“Quit the banging. My head’s pounding. Unless… gwa har ha!” A rich, throaty and booming laugh rang out, and oddly, even without the slightly rough, feminine tone of voice, I reckoned I’d be able to tell the laugh was coming from a girl. “…is it booze? I’ve worked up quite the thirst, huh har ha! Not much to do here but drink, fight and… ugh, nobody to fuck, never is. Oh, I wish a big, handsome, mighty Oni like the noble Red would come and push me down. I’d fight at first, gwa ha har, oh, I’m not coy, but I’d soon succumb, he’d rip off my loincloth, and…”

We exchanged rueful glances, and Blue scratched at her cheek, exasperated. “I’m going to see if I can find the badger. Not feeling like staying around here, ya know?”

“I get it.” I commiserated. Red remained unconcerned, but I could see that even he was slightly put off by the long rant, which was getting… overly descriptive… as Blue stomped off.

“…ride me like I’m a Bakotsu, and it should be twice as hot…”

“I can’t deal with this.” My sis rolled her eyes, before banging on the door again and calling out. “Yeah, it’s a delivery, all right. A special one!”

“Oh, there’s a voice I remember. It’s the super-tight girl with the big, huge, well-connected brother, gwa huh har!”

We heard motion in the room, as I glanced at my sis, raising an eyebrow. “And just how did you describe me? And just why…”

“Look, don’t ask, okay!” My sis was crimson, her expression mortified. “She’s… a lot to handle, okay? Just…” Aiko pulled out the black stone pendant I’d given her. “…she saw this and figured I was close to whoever gives these out. And it’s no lie. I mean, here we are, right?”

The door opened, to reveal a stooped Oni, bending down from her almost three metre height to fit through the small doorway. She was a big girl in every sense of the word, her leather loincloth and chest wrap doing little to hide her ample figure. Her skin was surprisingly natural, unlike Red and the departed Blue, a rich brown, like a tanned Japanese girl. Her horns were also larger than Red’s and Blue’s were, and wickedly curved, and her eyes were a deep, vivid violet. “So, come to bring me to…” She blinked, seeing Red standing there, only to become red for a moment, her tanned skin flashing to a deep, almost purple hue. “…gwa hah huh har gweh… am I seeing things, or…” She rubbed her eyes with massive fists, not even remembering to straighten up. Blinking, she then began to tremble.

“As promised, Red delivered, in the flesh!” My sis made the best of this awkward scene, despite the terrible sense of second-hand embarrassment we were all feeling. “Blue… uh, well… wow, how to put this without hurting your feelings? She… heard you talking and decided to go… find a drink, maybe?”

The Oni blinked, before finally remembering to stand up. Looming over us, she grinned shyly, though on her pretty, if feral face, it came across as a bit threatening. “Booze, you know I could use some, yeah…”

“Here.” I pulled out a bottle of sake from my storage. It was a big one but still seemed small in her hands. She took it, sniffing me. “Oh, you smell like her. The brother then. The one fucking those from the Parade and the Mountain.”

Mountain? More to the point… “And what did you tell her about me, sis?” I asked, as the Oni snapped the top off the bottle off and swigged at it. Red was clearly lost for words, so I tossed him a bottle too as my sis hastened to explain.

“Just that you were lovers with Shaeula here, and… others. I’m not lying, am I? I mean, you’ve even got Tamamo-no-Mae eyeing you, bro!”

At that I had to conjure wind to block the stream of spit and sake the Oni sent our way as she choked. “Gwa huh ho huh ha? Stop lying, tight little girl. Nobody’s heard nor seen a hair off one of her nine tails in forever, ha hur gwa!”

“If you stop trying to sexually harass me in front of my bro, I’ll let you into a secret. Walk over there…” my sis pointed backwards. “…and you’ll meet her. Though don’t ask for any hair off her tails, my bro groomed her good last night, until she was all glossy and sleek.”

Really, sis? Phrasing. Though it’s not entirely untrue.

“You aren’t shitting me, are you? You little humans and your jokes…”

“I… no.” Red shook his head, seeming a bit confused by his new Oni acquaintance. “The old bitch is back, though she refuses to give me and Blue a proper fight. I’m itching to test if I’ve improved, but…” He shook his head. “What’s your name, woman?”

The Oni brightened at his question. “Me? I’m Muratsuno… gwi hi heh!” Her laugh was oddly cute and shy now. “This is a real honour, I’m touched, moved! How about we have a wrestle, if… Tamamo-no-Mae…” Her thoughts caught up with what she’d been told, vivid violet eyes going wide. “… won’t… fuck me, you saying she is back, and… here?”

“In the flesh.” my sis teased. “Oh, and don’t forget, Red here heard all about how you wanted him to wrestle you, so… maybe just skip that and get straight down to if it he’s game, all right?”

“Aiko!” I grumbled, and she pulled down one eyelid with her finger and stuck out her tongue at me in the classic pose.

“Sorry bro, but I’m giving it back, I’m not in the mood to be one-sidedly teased! Anyway…” my sis smiled at the female Oni. “Thanks for keeping the shrine safe. We’re only a few days away from being able to have a proper, permanent solution, so… you’re nearly free!”

Muratsuno grimaced, baring her jagged little fangs. “That would be wonderful, gwa huh ha. Not much left to fight around here. I grow bored easily, you see. But… uh…” She gazed up at Red with starstruck, adoring eyes, and he shrugged, downing his sake, before wiping his mouth with the back of his hand messily.

“If you want to fight, why not? I don’t know you, young Oni, let’s see if you’re better than my poor, dead brother. He never did uphold the dignity of the Oni race. Probably adopted. Maybe not even a pure-blooded Oni. Half-breed.” He shook his head, glancing at me, and I shrugged.

I’m not sorry for his death. He killed Mine-san. But… I’m also not going to hold his actions against other Oni. Much as I still mourn that fucked-up series of events that Yamato set in motion… only those involved bear the blame. “Yeah, we’ll… leave you to it. We’ll be going soon, so… you can stay if you want, Red.”

“Leave behind enough booze for the three of us then.” He grinned slyly, as if eager to get the better of us. “We’ll get… acquainted, until you’re done with whatever scheme you are working on. A few more days, I can think of ways to stave off the boredom…”

“Material days. It’ll be a little longer here, but yeah. The time will pass in a flash.” I resolved to deposit a number of barrels of Fae booze here to keep them happy, though I did wonder if Blue would just leave with us, ditching Red here for a while. “In that case… happy brawling, I guess?”

***

“Sorry about that…” my sis sighed as we left the two Oni behind. They’d already started fighting, though it didn’t take a genius to work out that Muratsuno was about to end up flat on her back one way or another. “…she’s… frustrating. But I guess she’s not a bad person, considering the shrine still stands? At least she can keep her word.”

“Indeed. Yōkai are not-not bound by such Oaths as we Fae, but I do notice they do not-not lie that often. Trick and deceive, like that-that annoying Nebisuki, yes, but outright lie… not-not so much.” Shaeula agreed, as we passed through the cycling crowds towards the main shrine complex. It was much as I remembered it, though now it seemed far more impressive, the statues larger, more imposing, and the building to be covered in more elaborate gilding and carvings.

“Guess they must be happy about all the offerings.” my sis observed, seeing the canine adherents of the shrine, still wearing their funny, tri-corner hats, running about, dragging the barrels, bottles and other donations inside. “You know, I’m like you, bro, not overly keen on dogs, but the ones here are funny and not frightening at all. Maybe I got used to them, since you insisted I’d have to work with them so I didn’t get hurt.” She punched me in the shoulder playfully. “Wow bro, you’re so overprotective sometimes.”

“But you would not-not have it any other way, would you?” Shaeula teased, and my sis shrugged.

“I guess not. And I know it was good for Rika-chan and Yae-chan too. They didn’t have my advantages, so at least in company, we could escape and return to the Material if things got scary. Oh, speak of the devil…” As we reached the main chamber, the Brown Dog Kami was there, alongside Marika-chan, who was smiling so proudly I thought she looked like she might burst, an age-appropriate expression on her face for once. Rika-san and Yae were here too, talking to the adherents like they were old friends, and the sound of laughter, and barking growls, filled the shrine.

Oh, Arisu-san is filming. This will be one interesting documentary for sure…

“Oh, you’re here, Akio…sama!” Marika-chan called out happily, and I winced. Yeah, I guess all my effort to get her to be less formal and respectful of me isn’t going to work in front of her Kami. I suppose I don’t mind today…

“I certainly am.” I agreed. “So, how is the Pilgrimage going? Is he happy?” I nodded respectfully at the Brown Dog of the Mountains, who in addition to wearing his usual strange hat with dangling silver tassels, was now wearing a golden robe, to match his eyes, and his cushion he sat upon was larger and more magnificent, much like everything about the shrine.

“I would agree Chairo-sama is delighted. Even before today, our town’s faith has increased dramatically!” Marika-chan enthused. My sis and Shaeula shared giggles as they watched the enthusiastic young girl fondly, while even the Kami seemed a little taken aback by her excitement.

“And now, with many offering their heartfelt prayers and hopes for blessings, and our shrine to be featured on national, and even international programming… why, Chairo-sama might even be able to become stronger! His Divine Spark will surely blaze as brightly as the sun!”

“Yeah, we can but hope.” my sis agreed, stifling a smile, before stepping forward and placing her offering, a bottle of ceremonial sake down before the Kami. “Anyway, I’d love to stay and chat, but I want to catch the performance. I know I’ve seen them a lot now, but… it’s still always fun. Coming, Shaeula?”

“I shall indeed. I will let Akio here-here keep Marika company. And we shall rejoin him momentarily. It always is most-most amusing to say that, even if it is true!” Shaeula’s offering was a small dog statue, and a full handful of five yen coins. That’s not being cheap, its tradition, since five yen in Japanese sounds the same as good fortune, or good connections…

As they departed, I smiled, placing my own offering down, a prayer ema, though instead of wood, this votive tablet, with wishes for the health of the shrine, Marika-chan’s family, and the town of Nishimorioka, was actually made from silver and carved carefully. I also brought out some ceremonial sake like my sister had, as well as a plate of food. “Here you go. May the shrine prosper. I daresay one day, Marika-chan will have a Territory here, but don’t worry, in a few days we can set up a Satellite Anchor and protect this place. The Oni will continue guarding until then. Assuming…” I trailed off, unwilling to say such rude things in front of Marika-chan.

“Grr, indeed, the day when the lineage of our priests and shrine maidens brings prosperity and renewed vigour to this shrine shall not be long, grr, in dawning.” The Kami’s voice was oddly pleasant, even if the occasional growls and barks were distracting. He reached out a paw and placed it on Marika-chan’s shoulder, as if giving a benediction. “Do protect her well, for she is, grr, a treasure. Pure, brilliant faith, and an honest heart. Such are, grr, not so easy to find.”

“Don’t I know it?” I embarrassed Marika-chan with my praise. Yae and Rika-san both smiled and waved, having given their offerings to the dogs, and I expected they too were rushing to the concert. “Anyway, how is it?”

“Grr, rewarding, yet… difficult!” the Brown Dog Kami admitted. “Giving my blessing to so many, it is… a strain upon my modest Divinity, my adherence, grr. However, with the strengthened belief, and the great offerings, grr, provided… a virtuous cycle has been, grr, established!”

Marika-chan nodded, proud. “Indeed, Chairo-sama is no less worthy than Shirohebi-sama!” Her words were insistent, and she seemed surprised but not unhappy when I patted her head.

“Yeah, it’s only natural you’d stick up for your own Kami. If you can eventually establish a Territory, then a Throne isn’t impossible…” Though that’s a long way off. For her to establish a Territory and Rank it up without the benefit of a Favour’s Anchor would be a long, hard slog. But if anyone has the commitment and faith, she does…

“…though don’t get your heard turned by Ise Grand Shrine and its Kami.” I chuckled, and Marika-chan smiled adorably, before insisting that while she venerated the other Gods and Kami, of course her Chairo-sama was the best.

Well, Amaterasu and the other true Gods will obviously not be present, but I know that Yukiko said some Kami do dwell there, the lesser ones, anyway… Pouring strength into my Eyes, I observed the flow of adherence into the Brown Dog Kami’s body and Divine Spark. It was growing in intensity in small, but noticeable increments, as the remaining Pilgrims offered prayers and treasures, though I noticed that his adherence was also constantly dipping, as if spent. Out of curiosity, I waited for the moment when one of the Black Wolf members here finished bowing, a pile of sweet treats and five yen coins delivered. At that moment, the Kami both drew in adherence, and pushed it out, and some flew into the man, and at that moment, I could see his Kami-Blessed Class gain a Level, the small amount of adherence in his body turbulent.

So that’s how it works. I see. I remembered when I first gained the ability to use adherence I’d slightly increased my stats, a hilariously wasteful usage, as each point gained seemed to take an escalating amount, and it surely took more the higher the Statistic was anyway. Even so… that makes me wonder a number of things. But for now…

I spent some time talking to Marika-chan and her Kami, while honing my understanding of adherence. Yes, I was bottlenecked, and likely couldn’t go further without kindling my Divine Flame, which Tan warned against right now. That didn’t mean I wouldn’t still learn what I could while I had the chance, of course…

Meanwhile, back on the Material, I enjoyed watching the concert, again marvelling at just how well they were all performing, Suzu seeming especially cheerful. All right then, next, it’s Arisu-san’s turn to ferry us all to our next destination, where there’s five shrines in close proximity across Nagoya and the surrounds… though judging by what I’ve seen today…

As my Eyes scanned the Pilgrims, both here on the Material and in the Boundary, I tallied up their Class Levels, information Haru would no doubt want to collate. I guess want is a strong word, but she’s diligent. And at least she has her helpers now… It seemed that Pilgrimage was definitely going to be a success, and that everyone, or close enough, would be able to reach the goal of a Mastered Class, boosting their League and offering other excellent intangible benefits…