On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

As Miyu walked, or rather hobbled along, supported my me, I trickled in a little aether, fixing her swollen feet. “You know, you really should put more effort in to learning Ether Healing. That way this wouldn’t be an issue.” I suggested, my tone kind. “Oh, but I’m well aware it’s a horrible experience, so… I can see why you’d be hesitant.” After all, you weren’t the most enthusiastic about being a Chosen, to put it mildly.

“Oh, I shall certainly endeavour to do so. Michiru has quite surpassed me in that regard, but then…” Miyu let out a gentle, affectionate laugh. “…as you are no doubt painfully aware, Michiru has a rather… off… approach to some matters.”

What was visible of Michiru-san’s face behind her scarf matched it in crimson as she shook her head, side ponytail bouncing. “I fear you are mistaken, Miyu-sama, I would not find that…” She coughed, as her father and younger sister were still with us, and changed what she was about to say. “…I simply need to be able to recover rapidly. I am your Chosen Hero, after all, Miyu-sama! I must be ready to protect you at all times! That is the way of the ninja.”

“We are not ninjas!” Kozue-chan insisted, her tone frustrated. “The old ways are simply combat techniques! And even those you pair… you… you…” She glowered at her father. “…perverted! I want to be an honest bodyguard like mother! I will use the skills from this village, the ones you have not ruined, but… so much is wrong with this nonsense!” She was glaring at me now, though Honoka seemed rather distressed. She was about to speak, but I slightly shook my head, signalling that she should remain silent. I’ll handle it myself. I get why she’s frustrated, I think… even so, she’s going about things the wrong way.

“Those… those women.” Kozue-chan grumbled. “Is that what you want for us, father? I know when Honoka-sama graduates, gets married, my role will be over. Will you then send me out to seduce men?”

Koga-san scratched his chin, brown eyes filled with melancholy, but I was the one who answered for him, as Michiru-san was urging me with her eyes.

“I think you’re missing the point somewhat, Kozue-chan.” I kept my tone kind as we slowed our pace. My sis nodded to me as her group passed us, first to make offerings to the strange temple, quickly ushered inside. I wove another small barrier of wind and met her anger head on. “Your father… he doesn’t like those traditions. Neither do I, if I’m being honest.” I glanced through the faint green haze of wind energy, to where Yukiko, still trailed by the pair of female ninjas, was talking to the so-called Jōnin of this village, Furuihonō.

Her expression was rather cold, and I totally understood why. It certainly couldn’t have been pleasant, having our relationship thrown in her face, effectively concubines given to me right in front of her. If Koga-san hadn’t have spoken up, I would have, but… honestly, what can I even say? I don’t care for anyone who came after Eri any less because they weren’t first, but… even changing the laws isn’t going to make people accept us, only time and our efforts will do that, and even those who do, such as Furuihonō, who clearly has no issue with the relationship itself, just how it impacts his plans, will still find issue with it.

But knowing Yukiko, she’d set that aside if she had to. The two women trailing her were objectively beautiful, with bodies honed by hard physical exertion, but also honed to still be soft and feminine. Honestly, I expected that many of my women would like to learn from them in that regard. Shiro was complaining she didn’t want to put on muscle and was grateful that she could raise her Might via other methods that didn’t bulk her up, but… better to gain even a few points from training if possible. Every one might count…

“Don’t get me wrong, I’m flattered. I mean, back even only half a year ago, no woman as beautiful as… no, that’s not true. Eri was always watching, and Shiro… well, never mind her. But rather, other than them, I wasn’t a standout to any woman, really.” I chuckled ruefully. “That’s not the point though, is it? Obviously it feels good to be desired, even if it’s for shitty reasons, like an arrangement. But… when I think of Yukiko, or anyone else I care for, being forced to offer their body simply as a tool, or Michiru-san, or even you, Kozue-chan…”

She blinked at that, shocked, and I felt I had drawn her to my pace. “…it feels terrible. Now don’t get me wrong, I think women should be able to love freely, so… if they were taken by my charms…” I threw in a self-deprecating joke to pull the conversation one way, ready for my main point. “…and approached me out of honest desire… I’d probably still turn them down. My hands are quite full…”

Leaning against me still, Miyu nodded, her expression rather sharp as she listened to my every word, as if sifting it for meaning.

“…but I’d certainly have been more appreciative.” I continued. “Anyway… Kozue-chan…” At my sudden shift, my tone heavy, she responded reflexively, tone high-pitched.

“Yes?”

“…is it that much different to Honoka or Miyu? After all, their love and marriage wasn’t in their own control, was it? I’m afraid these so-called ninjas only take the fact that women are often seen as currency to its logical extreme.”

“I…” Kozue-chan couldn’t answer, but Honoka did.

“Yes, you are correct. I would have married whoever my fiancé was, chosen for me by father and grandfather. Even now… I follow you, Akio-kun…” Her tone was slightly wondering, as she touched her uniform’s rank insignia. “…but is it through my own will, or simply because that was what grandfather wanted? Nothing has changed…”

“Oh, it has, Honoka.” Miyu insisted. “Because I understand one more meaning of Adamant. It may seem no different than those Kunoichi sniffing around Akio-kun, but… that is not what Hinata-chan…” I did find the way she’d settled on addressing the pair of us amusing. Hearing her call someone with a -chan really doesn’t suit her elegant, calm image, but I suspect she doesn’t want to drop the honorifics entirely due to misplaced pride, considering how Hinata shattered her arrogance and selfishness when she first reached out for help. And now that she’s in Adamant too and Hinata is the High Commander… extra tangled. That’s the problem with being Japanese… I had to hold in a chuckle. …oh well, even Ellie’s group has their troubles with distance. It’ll work itself out in time, but I know Hinata wants every woman in Adamant to be true sisters, no distance, no boundaries…

“…plans. There are a number of routes available to you, and…” She smiled at me, and I thought she looked very lovely, considering her makeup was rather too heavy for my taste today. I preferred a more natural look, though I knew enough from listening to Aimi-chan and Hina-chan that such a look involved more effort, and still plenty of makeup and time. “…so long as Akio-kun himself doesn’t reach out a hand and pluck you, there are choices.”

“I wouldn’t do that.” I insisted. “If I was that sort of man, I’d have accepted Byakuren and Kokuren.”

“I… do not see why you hesitate.” Honoka tilted her head, and she did indeed seem genuinely confused. “Miyu and I, and Sakura-sama… if you were to make us yours, as Hinata-sama already is… then it would only leave Ichijou Mayumi-sama, and…” Honoka’s eyes narrowed as she contemplated that. “…her behaviour is very strange around you. I do not believe you would find it hard to engineer a circumstance where she sullied her honour with you. By force or cunning, and then her pride, and that of Ichijou house, would either have to settle for revenge, which against you now is both useless and counterproductive, or insist on dignity being maintained, and a formal matrimony. Then… your hold on all three houses would be significant, and unmatched. Combined with Princess Mikasa…”

“Very clever, Honoko-ojou.” Koga-san praised her. “Logically, if Akio-dono here was of the nobility, that’s exactly the correct move. But then if he was, Shige-dono and Kira-dono would have made sure an accident befell him long before now. Those old men are more ruthless than any ninja. And like Dragons hoarding gold, they treasure you girls, their precious granddaughters. Even so… you’re right.” He nodded. “This is a gloomy conversation, but… Michiru, Kozue… your mother isn’t from here, she’s a genuine trained bodyguard from the ordinary world, she thinks all of this incredibly stupid and foolish. In a way… it is. Though just because something seems foolish, doesn’t mean it can’t be deadly in the right hands. But there’s no real need for ninjas in the modern world, or there wasn’t. I won’t say I haven’t got my hands dirty getting rid of a few incompetent sons, or treacherous employees working with foreign powers. Just a shame that the Kuwahara house has slipped the net. But they’ll find that crossing the rest of the nobility will end poorly, mark my words. But…”

He stretched, cracking his neck, powerful muscles in his shoulders rippling his suit. “…I didn’t want such for you two. Yes, here, you’d be trained to please and seduce men, to administer the right tincture, be that poison to remove an idiot, or honeyed words to steer a fool either towards or away from disaster, depending on the desired outcome. Instead…” he glanced at Michiru-san, who was listening intently. “…I taught you the opposite, to fear and despise men, and the cruelties they can do to women. And… I recommended you as bodyguards to Shige-dono’s granddaughters. It was a happy coincidence. Your ages coincided, and… Shige-dono realises my worth.”

He sighed, though he seemed proud. “Sory to hold you up, Akio-dono. But… It’s time to talk about it. I knew I’d have to. But… before we meet my old man again, I should make things clear. The old ways here are just that, old. Yes, they update the core with technology, but at their heart… the old ways of the ninja haven’t changed. Death before failing a task, and our lives, happiness… purity… are worthless compared to the overall mission. Bodyguards… are the opposite. Yes, our lives should be laid down before our charges can be injured, yet… if we perish, even bravely, they are still wounded. In the heart. Wouldn’t you be sad if my daughters died, jou-chans?”

“Yes, I shall never permit Michiru to perish.” Miyu promised. “And I thank you for your words, Koga-san. There is still more you could say, but… allow me to finish. Honoka… you are not merely following grandfather’s will, still a tool for Akio-kun to use as he pleases. Because what pleases him is your growth, your happiness. Really, it fascinates me.” She giggled then, charmingly girlish, and shook her head, ponytail bouncing against me. “I too am like Michiru, I fear and loathe men in general. I have seen too much, how they scheme, how we women are little more than trophies. But… in Adamant, that is a nonsense. Nobody but you, your commanders, and your sisters, have the right to dictate your life. If you want to train, grow strong, rise to the top, and become a powerful warrior, or perhaps even some sort of craftswoman, making wonders, you can, and remain single forever, your own woman. If you wish to leave in the future and pursue happiness, I daresay everyone will be sad to see you go, but… you will have the support of those left behind, a powerful force, and nobody, no matter how powerful their parents or families, will be able to compel you.” She made half of the diamond salute with her free hand, and after a furtive moment of pause, Michiru-san placed her hand and completed the sign.

“No…” Miyu continued. “You will be able to live your own life. Then there are… other choices. I know some joined merely to increase their chances of catching Akio-kun’s eye. A hard path, as the Kunoichi here found, but… not one I think entirely foolish. Adamant means unbreakable, and those who oppose the desires of the sisterhood will find out just what that means. And as our numbers and influence grow, our strength, both individually and as a group, and we dominate the world… more doors that you believe closed shall open.”

“Well said, Miyu-ojou.” Koga-san approved. “If Shige-dono knew you were such a firecracker, I daresay some of his choices might have been a little different.”

“I was not, not before.” Miyu shook her head again. “I was weak and timid, selfish and bitter. But… we all bloom when we must, through adversity…” she nodded at her cousin and Kozue-chan then. “…just as you two have. At least you can have a say in your fate now. That should be enough for anyone. Now… we have tarried long enough. And we are attracting attention.”

I nodded. “Yeah, good chat. Kozue-chan, Honoka, I know you’re new to all this, and still unsure, but if you want, I’ll always listen, and if not me, Miyu’s right. There are plenty of those like you who will be happy to talk and bring problems they can’t solve alone to Hinata and the others. Together… we’re indeed unbreakable. And like your father, Kozue-chan… I don’t like women using their hearts as commodities. If you find a genuine sense of love for someone, tell me, and I’ll help you, okay?”

At their hesitant nods, though Kozue-chan’s seemed to be given rather unwillingly, I suddenly raised an eyebrow, glancing down at Miyu’s feet. “You know, you’ve got a Spatial Storage I made you. Couldn’t you have worn comfortable sneakers and changed into the sandals later?”

“Oh? Could I have?” Miyu chuckled. “And you think me unable to consider such? I wear casual clothes to my dance recitals and change on site all the time.” Honoka nodded her agreement at that. “No, this has meaning, purpose. Really, I should not have let you Heal my feet, yet… I can hardly bear to turn away the goodwill of an honest gentleman. Come now… I wish to see what this temple holds.” She pulled on my arm, and I glanced at Koga-san, who grinned, shrugging.

Fine then. Yes, considering that this small village which makes Nishimorioka look grand managed a pair of Chosen of the same Goddess as their local temple, I’m eager to see what secrets it holds…

***

“We… apologise for this.” Byakuren, the white-clad woman, whispered, and beside her, Kokuren, the one in black, her enviable chest straining against the silk of her shirt, nodded shallowly. Yukiko held in a sigh, biting on her lip, before reminding herself she wasn’t the woman she was even days ago. Yes, I’m engaged, I’m confident, and the public currently adore me. Though most of that is thanks to my idiotic older brother making me look good in comparison, and Arisu-san’s clever propaganda.

It still amazed her just how quickly Arisu-san had taken the television station that had been confiscated due to unwise dealings and turned it into a modest but successful way of disseminating information and swaying public sentiment. Honestly, she would make a better Imperial Princess than me, certainly. But… the role is mine, and I no longer wish I was born ordinary. If I was…

“He… meant no disrespect. Jōnin Furuihonō has the weight of the village, and a hundred generations of ninjas, upon his shoulders. And we… we are similarly disciplined.” Kokuren proclaimed.

Byakuren agreed, her face expressionless. “To die to preserve the legacy our ancestors passed down is no hardship. And… sex is far less cruel a fate than dying. Besides, using our bodies to provide a service, be it fighting, espionage or pleasure… it’s a job, isn’t it?” Byakuren’s tone and method of speech became more casual at the end. “And not an unpleasant one. Your fiancé is quite the man.”

As Yukiko was speechless, Kokuren took over. “If we can secure the safety and prosperity of the village with our bodies, it’s a small price to pay.” She too had dropped the formal speech, which Yukiko supposed made sense. How could they infiltrate modern society, still speaking like they are from the Shogunate eras…

“And yes, we are willing to die, even if ordered on a task that is certain death. We didn’t train for nothing.”

“Not all of the training was terrible.” Byakuren agreed. “No man has touched us, but we are fully aware of how to please and entice a man. And nothing is off-limits to us. We had to trade shame for discipline, unwillingness for loyalty, fear for honour.”

“But we are also aware of what is transpiring outside. We do go on field trips and excursions, training missions and… actual tasks.”

Yukiko raised an eyebrow at that, before addressing her question to the Jōnin elder, who was listening to the conversation, face expressionless and somehow very annoying. “You are active, even now, here in the village? That is… a troubling matter.”

“Our loyalty is village first, then to Japan. We would not aid foreign enemies, have no fear.” he replied coolly. “In fact, we have records of… some actions we have taken, for the good of Japan, recently. And while several of these Chosen have been indiscreet and likely threatening, they met accidents. I shall furnish you with the scrolls on your departure, as well as some contacts with… interested parties.”

“I… see. That would be helpful. But… the Kunoichi…”

“If I offended you, I apologise. I was simply stating facts. We know…” he pointed back towards the village entrance, where the signal tower was still visible, towering above everything else. “…all about your fiancé. He has a weakness to beautiful woman but never treats them with disrespect. Consider it a token of our esteem we would give not merely our finest Kunoichi over to him, but they are also Chosen, as he is, and you are, Princess Mikasa.”

“We won’t be a threat to your happiness.” Kokuren insisted. “Far from it. In fact, we can be your allies. Even if he never touches us, we will still serve.”

Byakuren agreed with a quiet nod. The entrance to the temple opened up, and inside an elderly priest was waiting, along with shrine maidens, and Yukiko caught a glimpse of a mop of blonde hair, before frowning at the sight. How… pitiful.

“Oh, that’s Himawari, little sunflower. She was such a promising Kunoichi, far better than we, but alas…” Kokuren shook her head. “…a training accident left her blind and frail, and rather slow. So now she serves here in the temple, sweeping and doing little odd jobs. But… well, we ninja are dedicated, but… we have our competitive pride. Some of those she used to surpass are far from kind.”

“I see. Not a sight that fills me with confidence in your motives.” Yukiko pursed her lips, as the young woman stumbled, another shrine maiden having tripped her with the broom, and dirty water sloshed onto her hakama, leaving a wet, stinking stain. “If anything, I am less inclined to be polite.”

“You can’t eradicate tensions, not in a closed system.” Byakuren sighed. “Set her aside for now. What matters is… we are experts at espionage, assassination, infiltration… and yes, we can play instruments both modern and old-fashioned, give massages, perform field medicine, act as secretaries or clerks, and… we have our Chosen gifts. Of course, we can please both men and women, and do so without any shame, though we will display plenty, for our old teachers explained that such performances without emotion aren’t erotic or arousing at all.”

“Our point is, if you are unwilling to see us directly under Oshiro-sama, then… use us yourselves.” Kokuren added. “We will dedicate our all to you, and to him. And aid in your attempts to be more than just a number to him.”

I’m not just a number. That’s clear to me, to everyone. None of us are. But I confess, it’s temping, for various reasons…

“I certainly am loathe to discard any assets that may be of use. But I’m still wary. And no, despite what you think, I’m not opposed to further women. How could I be? I still feel a little guilty that I’m in love with the man my best friend adores. I’m more… standing up for what Eri and the others believe in. Akio is… our love is… too precious to be sullied by only thoughts of profit and loss. As Eri once told Shaeula, and though she was harsh and unfair, not wrong, love for profit is only prostitution for a different currency. And… Akio will never have need of prostitutes. He has us!”

The village elder clapped his hands, drawing eyes from the shrine maidens within, who quietly giggled, though Himawari merely stared blankly, her beautiful face not entirely Japanese, though it was hard to describe her ethnicity, as her eye sockets were dead and white, ringed with savage burn scars, and one ear was a stump in her cloud of golden-blonde hair.

“Well said. But as a ruler you must buy and sell with every currency you possess. This is not the time for misplaced scruples. I did not mean to imply you hold no place in his heart, nor that your love is not true or worthy. I simply wished to point out the folly of discarding such beautiful tools out of unwise jealousy. Loyalty is guaranteed, we succeed in our missions or we die, there is no middle ground, but… better ties of the heart and body to ensure your trust. They will offer everything. And enjoy it, I think…” His smile was actually rather wry now. “…sadly, the targets of our Kunoichi are seldom pleasant. Greasy, old, fat misers, or young yet violent and corrupt playboys, traitors to the government, meeting with foreign instigators who are often rough and cruel to women… over the years, many Kunoichi have tasted such sorrows. But the lives saved, the good the country endured… even the nobility owes us much. Just who do you think led to the accidental deaths of a number of American officials who were abusing their power and destroying traditional Japanese culture during the occupation years? Alas, Takatsukasa house lost much of their assets and historic buildings before we could intervene, but… when that man returned home to America, he died, along with his wife, of food poisoning, no? Vengeance is futile, but… we felt compelled to offer it. And one of our Chūnin, a good man, a great chef, never returned. But he died knowing he redressed a wrong, and intelligence he sent us enabled many further incidents to be avoided.”

Byakuren smiled cheerily, and Yukiko found that she was warming to them. “Yes, honestly, our fate is hardly a mission, is it? We watch WTV, we comb through every scrap of data we can. Even now, while the War and the changing structure of government since has curtailed our influence…”

“…we still have some connections in the outside world!” Kokuren pumped a fist cutely. “We’re happy to become the personal servants of such a handsome, kind man. He wouldn’t treat us badly, would he?”

Yukiko had to admit that was true. “No, but… even so… although…” It’s… not much different to Adamant, is it? Just that… hmm, maybe…

“Look, if you can submit to a truth-enforcing screening, then I can certainly take you under my wing. But being bound by the winds to not betray us is the least of the precautions I can offer.”

“That’s fine. We were chosen by Marishiten for a reason!” Byakuren declared, and Kokuren supported her.

“We are ninjas. Our loyalty is never in question. Even a mere concern, and we will allow any punishment, be it stripping us naked and hurling us into a prison, or even our enforced suicides.”

Yukiko winced. “I hardly think that’s necessary. If you know anything about us, you should be aware that’s not how we do things.”

“They merely wish to state their resolve.” The old Jōnin, Furuihonō, insisted. “And while the Imperial Family no longer employs our services as they once did, and we lost a great deal of respect for them… it is time to renew our ties. Marishiten hides no lies, and treasures justice. We ninja uncover the lies of the wicked, and bring justice in the dark, where the light cannot go.”

Yukiko nodded. “Very well then. Allow me to make my offering, and visit the Boundary, and then… we will discuss these matters.” Firing off a quick message to the group chat which held all of Akio’s fiancées, Yukiko nodded to herself. It’s time I stepped up and handled this. These aren’t the friendly, honest Onmyōji Uncle Daimon commands, no… these are cunning, yet useful ninjas. They are right about one thing… I do so very much want to be useful, and having a couple of capable Chosen under my control would certainly have many uses… assuming that this isn’t all some rather clever trap, of course. But if so…

The newly enhanced Sun Of Amaterasu boiled within her, eager to be unleased. …then Kōga village will vanish off the map, and the mountains shall become glass. Traditional or not, we’ve no place for those who plot against us, and all we’re trying to achieve here…

***

Shaeula had hurried by me, winking, Eri following behind, and as we entered the magnificent temple, we saw them quickly making their offerings, but instead of heading to the tents for the transition to the Boundary, they headed for the back of the temple, vanishing into some rooms there. Curious. Oh well, I don’t see Yukiko or the three ninjas, so…

I was about to guide the others forward when I heard a loud crash, the ringing of metal and some laughter. A puddle of dirty liquid started spilling towards us, and I pulled Miyu out of the way, before my flame element quickly evaporated it. I turned, to see a woman with fluffy blonde hair, almost like spun gold, looking down, her hakama clinging to her thin body, soaking wet and reeking of dirt, two other women dressed the same way giggling at her misfortune.

What the hell? Worse, it seemed the woman had some sort of issue, as she was groping around blindly. I extended my vision a bit and… oh.

I was about to react when Koga-san, his voice a barest whisper, knowing I could hear, shook his head minutely. “Don’t react like they want you to, Akio-dono. This is how they do things, another thing I despise about this old-fashioned place.”

I took a deep breath, Resilience kicking in before I nodded. “I’m sure, but… this is how I do things. We don’t have to play their games.” I strode forward, everyone following, and raised my voice. “I don’t think you should be acting up in a temple, and… bullying a disabled woman is low. Very low.”

The first of the two giggling women eyed me disdainfully. “It was an accident. Wa-wa here is very clumsy. A disgrace to all Kunoichi. Oh…” she paused, knuckling at her head as if to cutely say she was an idiot, and her fellow shrine maiden, a pretty woman, but with judgemental eyes and a shrewish frown, took over.

“Yes, Hima-chan here is useless, and despite being a so-called prodigy, couldn’t even complete her training. Do you think she’ll tidy everything up? No, it will fall to us. And we have you here, such important guests.” She raised her voice, and the woman… Hima-chan? Or Wa-wa? …jumped.

“I’m sorry, sorry… won’t happen again…” Her voice was scratchy and hoarse, as if her throat was damaged, and while her head was down, and she was terribly scarred, her face, beneath all that, was truly that of an angel. Calling her cute or beautiful didn’t cut it, she had the sort of look that inspired men’s protective or fatherly instincts. Even her burned eyes couldn’t take that away. “…it’s… just…”

Her wet clothing clung to her, and her figure was angelic as well, slender yet full, though again, sadly one of her hands was missing two fingers, and burned and scarred, probably why she struggled to sweep the floors. As she fumbled for her broom again, apologising, I reached out and took her arm, and she froze, tilting her head so she could hear.

“Who… is it? I’m sorry, sorry… there are guests coming, the head priest said we had to keep the temple spotless…”

“I hate ninjas.” Kozue-chan whispered, her tone full of malice. “Yes, the skills have no sin, at least not the ordinary ones, unlike my idiot father uses, but… ninjas are outdated and pathetic. The village would be better off if it forgot the past.”

Even Michiru-san was angry, judging by the set of her shoulders, and Miyu and Honoka watched on with impassive, yet clearly unhappy faces.

“The guests are here, stupid, slow Wa-wa…” the first woman criticised, and she flinched in my grasp, and at that point I’d had enough. I’m not an idiot, this is clearly another trap, I can’t believe that they’d be so cold otherwise, though… I wasn’t a bad judge of character, and I felt that Hima-chan’s behaviour definitely wasn’t all fake, she was genuinely upset and scared.

“Enough!” my voice boomed, drawing all eyes. I spotted Aliyah rolling her eyes at me as she entered the temple, but seeing the situation, her gaze hardened, and she actually closed her fist, signalling to me to do what I needed to. Oh, I will. “The ones disrespecting me here are you two.”

As the girl shook in my grasp, I spoke to her kindly, into her healthy ear. “Can I have your name? oh, give me a second.” Water element cleansed the filthy liquid from her garments, and flame element dried her off. It was a technically difficult operation, especially here in the Material, but my skills with both elements were leaps and bounds above what I had before thanks to Suzaku’s and Genbu’s blessings. 

“Warm…” she muttered, and her face screwed up as if she wished she could cry, but judging by the state of her eyes, that was a feeling denied to her. “Oh… I’m… Himawari. I… was a Genin. I can’t… anymore.”

“Who says so? Now then…” I raised my voice. “Marishiten, I dare say that you wouldn’t be happy about this. I know that we don’t really venerate you as your aspect of a War Goddess now, but… I’ve been studying, and you’re popular with businessmen for clearing away obstacles and success. In that case…” my tone grew gentle. “…Himawari, in honour of our visit…” My Eyes shone brilliantly, and I could see that she was indeed lucky to be alive, in addition to her maimed hand and damaged arm, her eyes were completely destroyed, and it had even caused some minor damage to her orbitofrontal cortex, perhaps giving her personality defects. Though it’s not impossible the poor treatment has made her this timid…

“…how about a miracle?”

“Miracle?” she managed, before crying out in discomfort. Fortunately, as these were purely physical Healings, I was confident using aether to numb her pain was safe. Still, the sensation of squirming, regenerating flesh, especially in the tight confines of her skull and eye sockets, was surely unpleasant.

“I… ah… wait…” she blinked, and her eyes, a pretty shade of blue, coupled with her hair showing she was perhaps only half-Japanese, like me, went wide as she realised she could see. Her voice sounded completely different too, and she tapped the side of her head where her ear had regrown.

“…I can see… and hear… my voice…” she glanced down at her injured hand, now good as new, and flexed her fingers. “…it’s whole. I… I…” She looked at me, then down at where I was holding her arm, then back up at me again. She blinked, as if unable to believe she was awake, before turning to glance at the two shocked shrine maidens. She closed her fist reflexively, and then, impressively fast for an ordinary person, her hand jabbed out, extending a finger, and the first girl cried out, her eye gouged painfully. Then she spun, and her slender leg kicked up, catching the second in the base of the sternum. As she doubled over, an elbow flew, and she staggered, blood blooming. The one with a wounded eye opened her mouth to cry out, only to be on the ground a second later, rattling and choking as her throat was expertly struck, not had enough to cause lasting injury, but more than enough to rob her opponent of breath and cause immense pain.

“I still… remember how to… do that.” Himawari managed to speak, before turning to me, realising I was still holding her arm. Up close and Healed she was adorable, and the way her cheeks lightly blushed… yeah, she’s… it’s hard to say… beautiful, certainly, but not gorgeous. Pretty, definitely, but not sexy. But utterly charming.

“Excuse me. If I’m dreaming… don’t wake me… up.” she asked, and Aliyah, who’d stomped over, pounded my back hard with respect.

“It ain’t no dream, beauty. This here meddler’s one who just can’t ignore a damsel in distress. But that ain’t no bad thing. You’re good as new.”

Blinking her blue eyes, Himawari stared at us. “I… what? I’m…?” She looked down at the two groaning, battered women she’d reflexively beaten up, and suddenly smiled. “You know what, I very much don’t care. If this is a dream, it’s a wonderful one.” She then suddenly leaned in for a kiss, but I blocked it with my hand.

“Sorry, but this isn’t a dream, so… I’ll have to decline. How about Aliyah here? I bet she’d like it.” I deflected the awkward moment with humour, and Aliyah cursed me out.

“Fucking bastard. I’m not having your leftover gratitude, I ain’t that shitty. But… you’re a damn pretty one girl. Not entirely Japanese, are you?”

Himawari shook her head. “No, my mother is from outside. Though she’s gone now. Oh… not dead.” She shook her head, golden locks framing her face perfectly. “She just… didn’t take to village life. She’s far from the only one. Anyway, if this isn’t a dream… then the rumours I heard about magic…”

“It’s not… exactly… that.” I countered. “But close enough. I’m quite good at fixing injuries, you know. And I do hate seeing those around me in pain when I can fix it.”

“Especially when they’re a pretty woman. At least he’s got his head screwed on right that fucking way. I’d do the same.” Aliyah boasted. “Anyway… this is kind of a mess, ain’t it?”

I glanced back at Koga-san, who shrugged. “Let me handle it, Akio-dono.”

“If anything, shouldn’t that old fart who called himself a… Jōnin, was it… be happy, don’t you think?”

“Sadly… not.” Koga-san paused as he was walking towards the bemused priest of the shrine. “Oh, don’t get me wrong, he’ll indeed celebrate her recovery, but… when you fail like that, here they don’t give you a second chance. She’ll forever be seen as useless and unreliable.” He tried to brighten the atmosphere with a light smile, pulling at his tight collar as if it discomforted him.

Miyu then spoke up. “We should do what we came for. This can be addressed later. It is hardly like the village will injure her again. Besides…” A trace of impatience was in her eyes now. “…I need to settle things with Michiru’s grandfather, and…” She leaned in and whispered into my ear. “…I am rather stressed in this moment. I have agonised and contemplated, and wondered whether I should ever… no, I suppose I should not spoil the surprise, else the effect will not be as satisfactory.”

She let out a hot breath which tickled my ear, her gaze straying to Michiru. “…life is very complicated, is it not? But then, sometimes it can be simpler. What must be done is done, and what we want to do… so long as we have those who will extend a helping hand, we can achieve our dreams, no matter how impossible, yes?”

She glanced at Himawari, raising her voice again. “Come here. My ankles are rather swollen. I could use aid walking, and I do not want to overtax Akio-kun’s patience.” She hobbled, and the shrine maiden, or perhaps trainee ninja, it was hard to tell what she was now, reached out and steadied Miyu, and surprisingly, the elegant girl winked at me.

I knew you were lying. I Healed your feet just before we entered. Still… I would feel better keeping the girl close, for now at least. As Koga-san spoke to the priest, we quickly made our offerings, and as Kozue-chan seemed increasingly ill at ease, I agreed with her silently. Yeah. This place is a nest of ninjas indeed. Nothing can be taken at face value…

***

“So that-that is the situation?” Shaeula nodded, after Yukiko had explained. She eyed the pair of Kunoichi with eager expectation, amber eyes sparkling. “They are not-not fools, at least. Akio would most-most definitely be better than throwing away their chastity on some-some other fool. I do not-not ascribe much value to that, unlike you mortals, but I do not-not believe that any female would rather love a worthless male, rather than our sublime husband.”

“You’re missing the point, Shaeula.” Eri sighed, before she thanked Yukiko again. “You did the right thing, calling us. I don’t like to be rude, but I’m rather blunt, so do forgive me…” she addressed the elder, while Byakuren and Kokuren waited patiently, worry and anticipation on their faces.

Which is surely a trap in itself. Ninjas can mask their emotions, so if these are revealed, there is a reason. It’s so frustrating… but… she glanced at another guest, Haru-chan, who was dressed in one of her business suits, and looked rather fetching, but also very exhausted, which made sense. She had a busy day yesterday, and today…

It’s fine, Yukiko-chan… or would you rather I call you Princess Mikasa?

Oh, please, Yukiko isn’t just fine, I’d prefer it. I count you as a dear friend now, Haru-chan, and you’ve done so much for me.

Think nothing of it. Despite my complaints, I’m enjoying life, or rather, my afterlife… last night was fun, we’ll have to do it again, this time I’d like to see a gathering of Princesses, both actual and those of the Six Paths. Though then we’d need to invite that vampire girl probably. Akio’s concerned about her. Oh, never mind that now… my point is I’m just here to finish my Kami-Blessed Class, I don’t actually need to be present to start the upgrade, and my Silos can be controlled by those I’ve delegated to…

In that case, can you tell…?

As they were thinking at each other, Yukiko listened to Eri probe Furuihonō. “…there are easier ways to earn our favour. And speaking of Favour…” Eri put a different emphasis on the word. “The two women are Chosen, so are inherently valuable. There is no need to aggravate us all like this, and I suspect you know it. So… what are you really after?”

I’m afraid not. I don’t know If you’ve noticed, but I think they either know about me somehow, which makes this village very well connected, or they train themselves to keep their minds flawlessly clear, or both. Everyone has some jitter and scattered thoughts in their conscious minds, even those with very high Resilience, but these women, their thoughts are clean, crisp and honest. As for the elder here, he’s entirely empty, as though not thinking at all. It’s actually fascinating. When I work out how to dig deeper, I think I’ll make a breakthrough, but… I don’t really have the time… more importantly, outside…

Haru-chan quickly explained about the blonde girl, Himawari, and Yukiko frowned. So then, the true trap, hidden by the ostentatious display earlier…

They do say ninjas are masters of deception and misdirection. There might even be a third layer to it. Like a poison needle hidden in fruit, but the skin of the fruit is soaked in slow-acting, evaporating poison, so when you think you are safe…

You’ve quite the imagination. Yukiko gave a mental chuckle. If that’s the case, then their information sources are very detailed, to know how Akio would react, and that he’d definitely use Ether Healing on her…

I suspect government channels, perhaps even the Ministry. I’d have thought that safe, but… thinking about it, I never paid much attention, but… there were a couple of hires who had very calm minds. An oversight…

It couldn’t be helped. You didn’t know your Telepathy could be cheated that way.

I expect its due to training to resist giving out secrets under torture. It’s rewired their conscious brains. Everything here is… oh, it’s rude to call it fake, as everything is real skill and talent, but… it’s all done without the benefit of aether, though I suspect with it, their abilities would spike.

Like Tsumura Arts then?

Yes. Ninjutsu, most likely.

“It is simply as I stated. I wish to offer our finest, untouched Chūnin, for to offer those who have performed… certain missions before… might be seen as insulting. Better still, they are Chosen, and to our very own Marishiten. Do you not see the coincidence in this? Here in Kōga, we wish to once more step out into the service of the land of Japan. The true ruler.”

“Oh?” Eri asked. “You mean Akio? Isn’t that very rude to Yukiko here?” As Shaeula snorted a laugh, Furuihonō seemed completely unmoved, and he narrowed his eyes.

“You seem like a clever young woman. And an honest one. Tell me true… is he truly not the ruler? And as Princess Mikasa here is one of his wives, and not the most treas…ured…” His eyes widened, word interrupted, as Eri suddenly extended her arm, it stretching out to three times its length, aether surging, and then wickedly sharp claws were at his throat. Her cat ears had appeared and were flickering furiously, and the two Lotus sisters were watching Eri’s swaying black tail with some curiosity.

“You’ve crossed the line. Each of us is free to think Akio loves us the most, I know I am right that he loves me more…” Shaeula wasn’t the only one to snort wryly at the arrogance and hypocrisy there, and Yukiko smiled faintly too.

You know, you’d feel a lot happier if you stopped putting yourself down. Be bold. Honestly, and I’m not going to break Akio’s privacy, but he really likes your appearance. You may think you’re plain, but trust me, for a simple, idiotic guy like Akio, you’ve got the exact set of what he’d call pretty-girl-next-door or sweet-and-gentle-coworker charms. Besides, if you tell yourself something enough, you’ll start to believe it.

Yukiko hoped she wasn’t blushing, but her face felt hot. Come on now. I… do know he likes me, and that helps me to like myself a bit more. It’s just… look at the competition!

Who cares? It’s not like you’re all trying to win anything but your own happiness. So be bold. I support you!

I guess… when you need support, I’ll be there for you too. Thanks, Haru-chan.

Please, spare me. I’m dead tired, so excuse me if we get back to the point… she changed the subject. I saw a gap in his thoughts as Eri blindsided him. It seems great shock can do that. I didn’t get much, but… it does seem that he genuinely wants to get on Akio’s good side…

Then his way of going about it is odd, but… if I turn it around and look at it another way. Think like a ninja…

“…but how dare you put a rank on his feelings. I know he adores Yukiko, and if you try and cause friction…”

“It shall not-not just be Eri who is furious.” Shaeula agreed. “Now-now… while Eri does most certainly agree that Akio can be the only-only true ruler here, as do we all…” Around the meeting room at the back of the temple there were emphatic nods from the others, and Yukiko, though it pained her, inclined her head a little as well. Sorry, Gorohito. But even being Emperor doesn’t mean you will stand above Akio, not in the end…

“I think we need the truth. If so… then embrace Shaeula’s winds and waters and swear.” Eri warned.

I think… wait, I have it. Yukiko exchanged a rapid series of thoughts with Haru-chan, who let out a mental sigh of appreciation.

Truly brilliant. I’ve seen the police records, it’s not easy to put it all together, but with moles in the Ministry as well… and if their traditional training against torture and mental degradation works as I imagine…

Yukiko hurried over, and signalled to Shaeula, who nodded. Jade winds blew, silencing them, and Yukiko covered her mouth too. Ninjas are excellent spies, they can obviously read lips.

“Use your abilities, yes, but… don’t trust them. They can fool even themselves, so… they can tell you what they believe to be the truth, even if deep down it isn’t. They’ve trained their minds to be so… abnormally calm and placid… that mind-reading them is worthless. Following that through…”

Shaeula smirked, showing her teeth, impressed. “I see-see. Now I want these black and white females more-more. But I do not-not want dangers added, weaknesses to exploit, not-not when we are less than a day away from fixing our most-most glaring vulnerabilities. In that case, I have an idea…”

“You know-know…” Shaeula grinned predatorially, after dropping the wind barrier. “…I am not-not hard to understand. Though I do think I have-have improved.” She winked. “I am not-not Shiro, though we share many of the same-same proclivities, if for different reasons.” She crossed her arms, looking every inch the princess despite her small stature, and Yukiko envied that a little, before noticing Haru-chan’s knowing gaze. It’s fine. I’ll do better. I want to, so I will.

“We have no secrets.” Byakuren promised, and Kokuren agreed.

“Indeed. We are not even doing this as a mission for the village, not truly. You all should know better than anyone… it’s dangerous being a Chosen, and… who better to dedicate body and heart to than Akio-dono?”

“Oh, I do not-not disagree. And perhaps you are wise. But-but… are you worthy?” Haru-chan was filling everyone in on the events outside. “First, tell me, just who-who is this Himawari? Do you think-think us blind?”

“Himawari? Poor woman. She… was a friend and rival. But…” Kokuren brightened. “…Could Akio-dono not fix her wounds, bring her a little happiness?”

“Oh, he has.” Eri snorted, retracting her arm, shaking her shoulder as it returned to normal size, though wicked claws still formed her fingernails, perhaps as a warning. “So, I expect perhaps she would be a compromise? Someone Akio has already formed a connection with. If you two are the bait, meant to be rejected…”

“Speak-speak true!” Shaeula’s winds and waters surged, bathing all three of them. “What-what are your intentions here?”

“I want to have children with Akio-dono and an easy life with him!” Byakuren insisted.

“I’ll bring glory to the village, without having to offer my purity to some random bastard!” Kokuren bounced her chest meaningfully.

“I wish for the Kōga to rise again, and once more be the hidden hands of the rulers of Japan.” The elder declared finally, and Shaeula grinned.

“Very-very good. Now then, try again…”

Haru-chan unleased her Light Of Muted Emotions, and Shaeula ordered them to speak the truth of their goals.

“I’m going to become someone Akio-dono adores and be pampered and spoiled!” Byakuren spoke a little slowly, her expression dull. “I want two children. Boys though. That way, if we raise them as ninjas, they won’t have to screw some bastards just for their missions.”

“I get to have a wonderful first night, while still doing my duty to Kōga village and my clan. Akio-dono isn’t the sort to expend me recklessly, I’ll have a safer, more enjoyable life!” Kokuren insisted.

“The Kōga shall serve as his hidden blade and secret eyes and ears, rooting out Japan’s enemies within.”

At Furuihonō’s reply, Yukiko held in a smile. As expected. Then, Haru-chan…

“Don’t blame me for this. I’m just a sad, angry ghost. Who very much dislikes the thought of what you make women do, no matter the cause. I think any man who treats women’s hearts and bodies as tools should try it himself. Maybe the male Chūnin should trawl gay bars, getting intel from there at the cost of their assholes…” Haru-chan’s good humour had cracked and Yukiko winced. Oh no, I should have seen this coming. I didn’t mean to bring up…

I’m fine. I mean, I’m… fine. Just angry. It’s all so easy, sacrificing others. That’s why… I refuse to let anyone take advantage of Akio’s good nature, unless they are worthy of it. But we’ll see…

As they gawped at her harsh words, she raised one hand. “Here’s a little something I was working on, if I imagined how to hunt down a boar. Fortunately I didn’t need it, but… Kaleidoscopic Memories!”

Haru-chan’s light flooded out with a mixture of specially chosen memories, and though she was only sharing a muted overview with her, just so she could see how it was done, Yukiko winced. Nasty. And surely utterly illegal. But nobody else but Haru-chan knew about it, not at the Ministry, not even here within the group, so it can’t be uncovered or planned for.

Yukiko wasn’t a student of the sciences, but she had done a basic psychology module, and her lecturer had mentioned certain frequencies of light, sounds and images could induce various altered mental perceptions. ‘Brown’ noises, psychoactives, FLS, using high-frequency flickering lights, various smells and tastes… Haru-chan was projecting them all at once, and the three suddenly lost consciousness, or rather…

“Yes-yes…” Shaeula’s grin was vicious. “…if you have-have conditioned your conscious mind, then… we shall turn it off, while keeping your subconscious viable. Answer me again-again… what are your goals here?”

“I want to have his love.” Byakuren admitted. “I will offer my body, my heart and everything I am. He will find great joy in me. I will indulge him in any degeneracy, and also with great, tender care and love. I’ll risk my life, do missions for him, kill for him. But I must also watch him. If he strays from the path deemed best for the village… he will not die alone, I shall enter the grave with him…”

Yukiko and the others exchanged loaded glances, rather horrified, but unsurprised.

“Of course. Any woman would love to be Akio’s. But their loyalty goes so deep. Well, I do remember watching that anime with Akio and Aiko about that annoying bunch of idiot ninjas. It never made any sense to me why they treated the boy so badly… anyway, those ninjas would betray and kill family, friends or themselves for the success of the mission. So I suppose it got that right.” Eri grumbled, as Kokuren added her thoughts, further shocking them.

“I want to live a long, happy, pampered life with Akio-dono, have a loving family, eat wonderful food. I’ll make a perfect concubine, or perhaps even a wife if I can appeal to him enough. He will never find me aggravating or nagging, I’ll always be a joy for him. He’ll want to spend time with me, make love to me. And my body and soul will remain clean. Like my sister, I’ll fight for him, kill for him. But I shall also watch them, those around him he loves. He is too open. Unguarded. Any woman who is a danger to the stability of the situation… I shall remove. If I must die with them, then so be it. I hope he will weep at our graves and light incense for me.”

“I do not-not think that is what Akio would approve of.” Shaeula drew in a hissed breath. “It does seem that they genuinely wish to be with Akio, but… well, you can not-not serve two masters.”

“Yes.” Eri’s tone was dangerous, as she waited for their final opponent to speak. “I don’t care how much they will aid us, if we can’t count on them to do what’s best for Akio…”

“The Kōga shall serve as his hidden blade and secret eyes and ears, rooting out Japan’s enemies within.” Furuihonō repeated, and there was a long silence, before the truth came out. Though obviously we will do further digging. This should be impossible to predict or resist, that we can do this, but even so… careful handling…

“We are also to prevent matters from affecting our sponsors. The government is already too beholden to one man and his whims, and it will only get worse. Japan needs Chosen, the Kami at Marishiten’s shrine, who recognised the messenger who brought the Favours to our two Lotus sisters, insists without strong defenders, Japan will fall. But… if those in the government, the nobility, the world of the rich and powerful, and our foreign allies, have no stake in the new world… that is unacceptable.”

“I see. Then what-what of this Himawari?” Shaeula asked, as they all silently shared thoughts through Haru-chan.

Looks like it’s time to have a clear-out. It was inevitable that not everyone is on board, we’ve seen some troubles with Honoka-san’s father, and Nozomi-san’s ex-fiancé and his family. In politics though… that’s a pain… Eri sighed mentally.

“Himawari is a fortunate coincidence. She was living a wretched life after the accident. It did not seem an accident to me, likely sabotage by a jealous rival… regardless, when the information we obtained was collated, on great healings and how tender he was to women in danger… well, Himawari is still a skilled assassin, despite not passing her Chūnin training. And she naturally charms men, her mother’s blood combined to make her seem soft and attractive. But she is also too kind and broken by years of suffering and bullying. I had considered ending her misery, but… a ninja never discards anything that might prove useful in the future, no matter how slim the chance.”

“But she can not-not harm Akio. What is your plan?” Shaeula asked, intensifying her winds and waters.

“It is simple. Hopefully there will never be a need, a strong Japan requires a strong protecter, and he has done well so far. But… rumours are spreading that oil, electricity, medicine, weaponry… many industries will be devastated, the wealth going to him. One man cannot eat everything and expect those who were feasting until now to be reasonable. So…the last month we have used our oldest techniques. When a keyword is given. Himawari will remove her hollow tooth and deploy the greatest poison we can make. Its lethality is such it is said it could even kill a Kami. He can surely not survive that. Then… she can pass away in sorrow and grief, for… despite all her suffering, she is still a gentle soul. Perhaps due to the injuries to her brain.”

“And then, your rewards?” Shaeula asked.

“Vast wealth, access to new trainees without number. Of course, ideally, it will not come to that. Even having the assurance of a hidden dagger at his side will allay many fears. We are not his enemy, we would wish him to succeed. Most would work with him, and few would see Japan burn, but… better a king of the ashes than a peasant staring up at a golden palace, some think. We will do what is best for us and for Japan, but… ninjas are always watching. Nobody, no matter how strong, is beyond our reach. Even now.”

As he fell silent, eyes vacant, Yukiko exchanged a long glance with everyone, before pulling out her phone. “Very well then. It’s war. But before that…”

“Yes.” Eri’s onyx eyes gleamed, and Yukiko shivered at the vehemence there. She’s ready to take her axe to those plotting, isn’t she? Me… you know, I’m feeling like a little fire and light might make me feel better too…

“We need to work out precisely who is dissatisfied, and which ones are willing to ruin Japan and us out of their own jealousy. Just being cautious isn’t a crime and hating us… that’s their business. I hate them too.” Eri tossed her head, ears flickering. “…but those who want Akio watched, us observed, knives at our throats… they won’t get off easily.”

“No.” Haru-chan agreed. “No, they certainly will not. I’m afraid they misunderstand the way things work. Fortunately… they’re not ninjas, so… when we find them, I can unravel the web of their plots and connections. But…” she rolled her eyes. “…how much more work do I have to do? Is there no rest, even in death? Akio’s mother says there’s no rest for the wicked, but if anything, I’m far too virtuous!”

Yukiko smiled a little at that. You think so? Your Kaleidoscopic Memories, as you call it, is vicious and should surely be illegal. But… Thinking about it, Yukiko didn’t care. “All for a good cause. Now then… we have to decide what to do with our ninjas here. It seems a terrible shame to waste them, especially when the sisters seem genuinely decent, as does Himawari….”

“I’d take their Favours at the least, but…” Eri shrugged. “…maybe that’s harsh. But we need Akio’s input, everyone else’s too.”

“Not yet.” Haru-chan shook her head. “Let Akio finish escorting Miyu-chan and Honoka-chan. There is something they have to do we shouldn’t interrupt. But yes…” She clapped her hands, light flowing from her, and the ninjas regained their minds, and blinked, clearly displaying no memory of the time their brains had been stunlocked by her attack. “…they sound genuine, Shaeula.” Haru-chan’s voice changed. “…but maybe ask them a third time, just to be safe.”

“Oh, that is such-such a waste of my time…” Shaeula acted petulantly, and Yukiko hid her smile behind one hand. “…my winds and waters are quite-quite potent, they can not-not be evaded. They mean just what they say. But…” As she asked again, and they got variants on the first two answers, Yukiko’s phone pinged. Glancing at it, she nodded. All right then. Time to show that it’s not just Haru-chan that can get things done…