On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

“Do come spend sooome time with me later.” Hyacinth, after we’d talked for a while, smiled alluringly. “We have much to discuss, and you prefer… intimate… conversations for matters of importance. Hyacinth is the same way, I assure yooou.”

With a smile, I nodded, and we kissed, before I started doing the rounds of the yacht. Tillyae’s weaselkin players were putting out quite a rousing performance, their music just familiar enough to be comforting, but also novel enough to be exciting. A lot of the women upon this ship were gazing out at London’s skyline as we cut along the Thames, but I spotted Daiyu and Motoko, both dressed in rather fetching gowns, talking animatedly, so I decided to cut in. On seeing me, they both smiled, and I once again was amused by the contrasts between the two women, as well as their similarities. Neither are particularly expressive, but Motoko’s smile is certainly more noticeable. Daiyu’s is just as cute though.

“Akio. Good evening.” Motoko greeted me, Daiyu echoing her. “I trust Kana’s date went smoothly?”

“Yes. She was fulfilled, and so was I.” I admitted without shame. “It’s been… quite the day.”

Daiyu let out a gentle sniff of amused agreement. “Indeed. It was most interesting to see what choices of clothing you feel suited us. What you picked out for me was certainly… not what I am used to.”

“You both look great in pretty much anything.” I assured them. “Which is why going for something you’d never normally wear is so fresh and exciting.”

“I see. Tomorrow, while you have much to do…” Motoko’s expression was compassionate now, as she knew that the first task of the morning was likely to be extremely unpleasant. But it has to be done. Britain’s rot must be fully excised, and the Favours redistributed. That way we can grow past this bitter mess.

“…I and Natsumi shall be escorting our parents around London. My brother too.” She seemed a little hesitant at saying that, and I understood, as while her parents had come to accept and even welcome me as her fiancé, her brother Masaru-san was still struggling to adapt. Not that he’s actively interfering or anything like that, but even so… well, it’s not like I don’t get it. My own sis… nope, later.

Motoko then cast a sideways glance at Daiyu, who shrugged slightly and spoke. “You have no need to be cautious of what you speak of on my account, Motoko. Yes, my family is gone, but you are my family now, disciple. Twice over. It is foolish to envy what others have that can never be attained. Even the Gods cannot turn back time. Perhaps I shall accompany you. I shall be at a loose end while Akio is occupied.”

“You would always be welcome. Matriarch.” Motoko bowed in Cultivator fashion, earning a nod of approval from Daiyu.

“Now then…” Daiyu changed the subject. “…Hyacinth has returned, and I can feel the air of power around her. It… makes me rather wary. Power gained so…” she paused, embarrassed. “…I was going to say easily, but that is not the case. Fortuitously, perhaps…” she amended. “…is hard to trust. Though I presume you are keeping a wary Eye on her?”

“That I am. Don’t worry, I have the Wisdom…” Thanks to you, oh mighty World Tree… “…for that. I do agree though. While it’s Hyacinth’s power, she’s happy to share, and I have a few ideas, though rigorous testing is required as always. But Cultivation is all about making power one’s own, yes? Just consider this another challenge.”

Daiyu nodded. “Yes, one I am sure we can all meet.”

“Indeed, if I am honest…” Motoko agreed. “…Nkunim’s Favour is not a weapon I can fully control. Indeed, it is set up to be a reckless gift. Anathema to the precise ways of Tsumura Style. But conversely, if I have learnt anything from you both…” Daiyu’s faint smile at that was satisfied. “…strength is found in opposition, and balance is key to everything of worth. I shall tame it. This battle on the coast, it shall be an excellent test. So, do not be dealing with everything yourself. You are there simply as backup for us.” Motoko warned teasingly, and Daiyu agreed.

“Indeed, I do wish to try out a further refinement of my Eight Trigrams.” Her black eyes shone with both pride and a hint of what I felt was uneasiness, Lovers’ Link responding. “I would not have it laughed at by the Su family, when they inevitably wake.”

“Let them scoff if they wish. If anything…” I reassured Daiyu, my arms around her and Motoko now, as we listened to the music and watched London pass us by, the festive lights mingling with the usual lit skyline beautifully, our breaths adding cold steam to the skies, vanishing momentarily. Like Daiyu’s fears, I hope. She still has worries, dreads, insecurities… it’s entirely understandable. But… I’m her Dao Companion, so she’ll never be alone with those. “…I’d imagine they’d be impressed you’d created such a Technique with no backing barring the remnants of your Sect’s knowledge you remembered. Besides… I think they’ll have more to concern themselves with than you.”

“Yes, I feel the same way.” Motoko agreed. “Daiyu, we each have our own challenges. Tsumura Style, while now recognised by the multiverse itself…” She was so proud at that, and I kissed her forehead softly as she talked, before Daiyu’s envious gaze led me to kiss her too. “…is but a fraction of a true perfection of martial prowess. After all, in pure combat skill we still do not measure up to master Ulfuric. Or in archery, Shaeula’s brother surpasses us. Her sister with spears also… yet, we have just began our journey, Daiyu. And those who are older, wiser and more practised… they can look down on us if they wish, but in the end… we shall laugh last, and longest.”

“Bold words, Motoko. But then, you’ve always been determined.” I chuckled, impressed. “You fought so long to get what you wanted.”

“Yes, but… I came close to giving in, so many times. If you had been even a year later, perhaps even half a year… I would have crumbled under the pressure, Natsumi too. Timing… is everything.”

“Timing is everything.” Daiyu repeated, speaking the words as if tasting them. “Yes, I do suppose it is. It seems your greatest gift of all is not your strengths, Akio, but…” Daiyu turned her head to another trio watching the skyline from the side of the yacht, and her smile was rather more prominent now. “…being in the correct place, at the needed time, with what is required to offer us salvation.”

That’s going a bit far. Slightly red-faced, I shook my head. “I can’t offer salvation. Everyone can only earn that themselves. But I can be there to support you, cheer for you. Love you.”

“Sometimes, being loved is salvation enough.” Motoko added. “It was that way for Natsumi and I. But you are correct. Nobody who does not have the will to struggle can ever truly be happy. For even if someone gifts us everything, in the end, someone with no fight in them will find it meaningless. Fortunately, Matriarch, you are indeed a fighter.”

“Comforting me, are you? How cheeky.” Daiyu’s smile was a gentle smirk now. “But you are not mistaken. From my first forays into Cultivation, to my defeat at the hands of that treacherous bitch Sun Lisha…” Daiyu had seldom talked about how she’d ended up in the ocean before being rescued by a whaling boat. Now her voice was filled with resentment and the need for revenge. “…to finding my place in this foreign land, and then finding love I never dreamed of, only looked down upon… yes, if at any stage I did not fight, I would not be here. Perhaps that is why we are suited for the Favours we have, Motoko. We both did not give up, and now… never shall.”

“Exactly!” Motoko agreed. “And speaking of… later tonight… or rather, would it be this morning now?” She shrugged imperceptibly. “…it hardly matters. We have time yet. So later… last night was not enough to satisfy us. I shall be away from you soon, alas.”

Daiyu nodded. “It is a shame you cannot venture on this so-called Quest with us, but… it seems that it calls the moons. Poetic, but in this instance, relevant. But there are several days before that still to enjoy.”

“There are.” Motoko agreed. “So… later. But first… we shall not monopolise you. and our guests…” She nodded over at the trio, Natsumi talking to Ileana and Valeska. “…deserve a little of your time, though… not your intimate time.” She winked, shocking me, and then leaked a little giggle, though even that sounded refined and delicate. “Since the outfit you picked for me was rather more… bold… I shall strive to be so on occasion. And seeing your reaction, it was quite worth it.”

“I guess so.” I chuckled, giving them both kisses, this time lingering, deep ones, our tongues and lips mingling, before I bade them farewell and strode over towards Natsumi, who saw me coming and waved. Ileana turned, wearing rather ordinary but fashionable skinny jeans and a ruffled pink blouse, and her eyes caught the light, shining with a variety of metallic and sanguine hues. Beside her, Valeska, in plainer jeans and turtleneck black jumper, grimaced a little, though she didn’t actually seem displeased to see me.

“Akio, the view and the ambience is quite wonderful!” Natsumi gushed, taking my arm, pressing it to her chest playfully, earning a raised eyebrow and a snort from Valeska, while Ileana seemed a bit confused by Natsumi’s exuberance. “Honestly, it’s the sort of event that perhaps only the Three Great Houses would think of throwing. Though this outstrips anything they can do. Mayumi-chan was quite flabbergasted!”

“Oh, so she’s here too?” I asked, and Natsumi nodded.

“Yes, along with Sakura-chan, Honoka-chan and all their bodyguards. Hinata’s enjoying lording it over them, you know how she is. She’s not just being petty though.”

“I should think not. Hinata’s actually very considerate, and despite their rocky relationships, she loves her cousin and Mayumi a lot.” I agreed. “Plus, I expect…”

“Yes.” Natsumi agreed. “She wants to help Miyu and Michiru acclimatise quickly. Though they’ve been doing well so far.” She then paused, her expression amused. “Too well, some might say. You’re going to have your hands full with them, I think. It amazes me, that I can think of Fujiwara Miyu that way. I never knew.”

“I… didn’t expect them to be as fervent as they are.” I admitted. “I suppose I should have, considering what they planned for me to win me over. I wanted to take things at a rather more leisurely pace, but… anyway.” I changed the subject, it being clearly inappropriate to talk about last night in front of Ileana, who seemed quite a sheltered, innocent young woman, rather similar to how Motoko and Natsumi were, at least before we got engaged. Besides, I’m also ashamed of my naivety. Once… once we’d shared our lunar Chakras that way, and I felt their genuine feelings for each other, and for me… and what they dreamed of… yeah, it was going to be very hard to refuse them… but I did learn a valuable lesson, and I won’t make such a careless mistake again…

“So, you decided to come here, did you?” I asked Ileana and Valeska, and the older woman let out a dull snort.

“Oh, I had no wish to expose my little light to the wolf’s den, but…” She gazed fondly upon Illeana, whose pale skin flushed slightly. “…she did wish to travel halfway across the world in an instant. I can’t say I didn’t see the appeal. And I wished her to have some fun. Not just to hide and cower.”

“And I’d say this yacht is the safest place on Earth right now.” Natsumi agreed. “If the Church or anyone else attacked, they’d be throwing their lives away.”

“It is true.” Ileana added. “I do… feel safe. I feel…” She paused, her flush deepening, and I noticed her slightly protruding canines were starting to extend, and on seeing my gaze, she hid her mouth with one hand, only for me to gently pull her wrist away.

“You don’t need to hide who or what you are. That’s not the sort of world we’re building.” I pointed to the musicians, all weaselkin in their natural forms, though Shaeula had told me in passing that several of the weaselkin who had accompanied her from the start, as well as some Shaeraggo gave us, such as Tillyae, and the leader of the mages, Danaera, had managed to gain their own mortalforms from growing stronger and more skilled. I’m a little curious as to what they look like, honestly.

“See? They can be themselves. Just as you can be. Besides, you’re not a Vampire, are you?”

“No, though your sister…” Ileana glanced down, and I queried my sis on what she’d done. Her mental reply was amused and faking offense.

Wow, so rude, bro! I was just being helpful. After all, she’s one of the Princesses, right? So she’s your responsibility. And even Eri says she’ll end up falling for you. So Shaeula and I gave her some DVD’s to watch.

DVD’s? I have a sudden bad feeling…

Wow, so rude! So double rude! My sis repeated. I’ll have you know we didn’t show her anything weird. Just a few Vampire films from the West.

Uh, that could be good or bad…

Hey, we tried to avoid the ones with the stereotypical ‘all Vampires are evil’ mindset, bro. But we thought it’d be helpful for you. And not just for that… I know you too well bro. Hell, Eri and I can get what you are thinking even now…

Leave me out of it. Eri interjected. While I did say, and maintain, it’s a matter of inevitability Iliana falls for you, Akio…

The blood, yeah? Got to be bro’s spicy, addictive juices…

Come on, Aiko, at least try to avoid such blatant innuendoes.

Wow. Eri, at least try to be consistent. With some of the wish tickets you had me include, you’re worried about a dirty joke only us few can hear?

Love is different to crudity…

As they bickered good-naturedly, I shook my head. “…my sis was trying to be helpful. But whether you’re a Vampire, a Dhampir, or a variant thereof, you’re still a person. So don’t take what she showed you to heart.”

“I’d heard of them, you know.” Valeska added. “Though such films were never much to my taste. Books and the radio were all I needed.”

“Yes. To see how the world sees us… it was quite shocking. But…” Ileana shuffled a little, legs crossing and uncrossing as she gazed at me, gently gnawing her lips. “…they were so stylish.”

Stylish? I was confused by that, only for my sis to admit she’d shown her a number of films with the stereotypical brooding, gothic Vampires, impeccably dressed and elegant.

After all, I know you like the look, bro… she finished, Eri having fallen silent after their playful bickering.

You’re not wrong, but…

“I admit we have a certain impression of your kind. But… you’re not a creature of the night, are you?” I asked, and she agreed.

“While the sun is uncomfortable, no, I can walk under it. Though not all could, according to my tutors. But our bloodline was pure, our family noble. Still, we can enter places uninvited, and cross running waters. I definitely have a reflection, though such mirrors as we possessed them were nothing like the clear glass you have here…” She glanced over the railings to the churning Thames below. It was hard to see, but due to the light from the yacht, we could faintly make out her distorted image on the foaming waters.

“How else could you dress yourself and apply makeup?” Valeska added, and Ileana’s eyes turned away from us, before she spoke quietly, slightly ashamed.

“My family’s servants and blood children took care of me. I… had to do little myself but learn. I was a swift learner. As I am now. So… I shall adapt.”

“No wonder you were confused when we first met. It wasn’t just the unfamiliar clothes then.” Valeska chortled. “But yes, though at first I mistook you for a troubled, desperate runaway, which in a way you were, I soon realised you were a sheltered young princess, even if the world was the one you knew, you’d still have been an alien to it, my little light.”

“I would have.” she conceded, and as Natsumi bade me remain silent with a cute shushing gesture, we let them speak.

“I am so very fortunate that the small home I stumbled upon was yours, Valeska. Else I certainly would have perished at the hands of the Church, or even… through simple starvation…”

“Or worse.” Valeska added. “You were so painfully thin and scrawny, pale and weak, but you were still lovely.” Her tone was gentle. “Many a wicked man would have taken advantage of you to your detriment.” Her gaze then strayed to me. “This wolf still might.”

“Not to her detriment though.” Natsumi promised. “And you know that, else you wouldn’t have brought her here. And Ileana knows it too.”

“That could just be the blood speaking… no. No. I’ve seen a lot, these past days. And I may be old and probably should already be dead…” Ileana made an unhappy face at that statement from Valeska. “…but what I’m not is a poor judge of character. I don’t suffer fools gladly, and I don’t take what I’m told on faith. I look at those around you and listen. Though the blood still bothers me. But…”

“She does look a lot healthier. Still a bit too pale…” Natsumi chuckled. “I shouldn’t say that. A lot of Japanese women, me included, would love paler skin. Though on you, it seemed more a pallor than a shade, Ileana.” At her nod, Natsumi continued. “But now it’s closer to the ideal, and you’ve lost that gaunt appearance.”

Indeed, while Ileana was still slender, she had rapidly filled out, so much so that I assumed that the outfit she was wearing today was freshly purchased, as her previous jeans would be too tight for her now. Under my scrutiny, she fidgeted and flushed, before letting out a long sigh, whistling between her fangs which she showed openly, perhaps taking our words to heart.

 “I do require blood, and… the aether within it, perhaps, as Shaeula explained to me.”

“I actually think it’s not just the aether, but the soullight you’re taking in too.” I once more felt wry amusement that I could freely drop information that Tan couldn’t due to the agreements she and her Pantheon were bound by, but once someone knew of the concepts, such restrictions no longer applied. A loophole, and surely for the Church of True Revelation’s, or rather the One True Throne’s, benefit, no doubt. But one we can freely abuse here…

“And I’d rather meet your needs myself, for a number of reasons. Though of course, to an extent, it’s your choice.”

Ileana shook her head, gaze straying to the lights of London. “This world is amazing. I feel that very strongly. Even Sibiu was like nothing I had ever imagined. To say nothing of… Tokyo…?” Natsumi and I nodded, so she continued. “…and now this. I have slept so long, and all I knew is gone.”

“Perhaps. But… it’s too soon to give up hope.” I insisted, my Eyes shining, my Path whispering to me. “You survived, and at worst, you’re the embodiment of the hopes and dreams of your family, so while you live and remember, they’re not truly gone. And now there’s Valeska…” She snorted wry agreement. “…and us. Look around.” I swept an arm out, gesturing to the others on board this cruise. “…nobody here fears you. And you’re one of us now. So you’ll have time to find your own place in the world. And if that requires blood…”

“It… does.” Ileana admitted. “And yours is…”

“A wolf, baiting the trap… ah, is this how it feels to watch one’s daughter go and be swindled by some young vagabond?” Valeska grumbled, and Natsumi consoled her.

“Better Akio, who can protect and nurture her, and yes, supply nutritious blood. His other fluids are supposedly just as good or better, but…” she shuddered. “…you don’t want to know how we gathered some of them for testing.”

“Really?” Ileana raised one rose-gold eyebrow, suddenly curious. “Other…”

“Enough of that.” Valeska grabbed my wrist. I could have evaded, of course, but there was no need. “I won’t say you’re too young, little light, to know about what takes place between men and women…” Natsumi tittered at that, perhaps remembering her own naivety. “…but you are certainly too… too new! Blood, I suppose I can understand. Honestly…” She’d visibly grown younger. No, that wasn’t quite right. Valeska still looked like an elderly woman, there was no doubt about it, but her hair was thicker and with much less grey, and her wrinkles had faded. Perhaps it was fairer to say she had become far more… well-preserved.

She displayed her own toothy smile, faint fangs visible. “I too have this irritable feeling, this itch.”

Ileana nodded. “As my blood child, you have become one of my lineage. Not pure, not strictly, but… you have taken on many of the attributes, though it will take a great deal of time, and… this aether and soullight… to bed such changes in, or so I would imagine. You are, after all, my first blood child.”

“I’m curious. So, what are the benefits, Akio?” Natsumi asked me, knowing I could see. “Is being a blood child worth it?”

“I think it’s far too hasty to start experimenting.” I chuckled. “Though, I did ask Christina to see if she could concentrate my blood. If Ileana needs it to be healthy and unlock her true strength, I wonder what concentrated blood, full of energies, would do. But for now…” I held out my wrist. “…if you’re thirsty… I don’t mind. I should have recuperated all my drained liquids by now.”

Last night sure was wild… anyway, yes, there are potential benefits, but also downsides. I don’t know if that’s because Ileana didn’t perfectly understand what she was doing, or from her story, she was in dire straits at the time, barely alive herself… anyway, seeing what we can do with my Skills comes after the Quest. Valeska is right about one thing, Ileana needs time to acclimatise herself, and live a peaceful, fear-free life for a bit. And yes, even watch silly Vampire films with my sis and the others…

“The milk is already spilled, as they say.” Valeska sighed. “And the wolf has caught my little light. Quite poetic, honestly. Isn’t there a wolf which swallows the sun, and you called her a Solar Dhampir…”

“Yeah. Fenrir.” I’d been doing my mythological research, or course, and the wolf was central to me, due to his link to Tyr. One reason why we renamed the Black Wolf Company to Fenrir. Well, that and it’s one hell of a badass name… “Before, I’d have been rather troubled, as I used to loathe dogs. I’m over that now, luckily. But… I’m…” I first felt a feathery touch, as Ileana gently grasped my wrist, the colours in her eyes shading towards shades of red. Then there was dampness, as her lips pressed against my flesh, where I’d unbuttoned my cuff to reveal my wrist. Then two sharp pinpricks of… no, it doesn’t hurt. In fact… it was oddly pleasurable, like a kiss, in some ways, as she gently sucked the blood from me. My Eyes watched the whole process, and indeed, at first, she drew in the aether and fortified her body and odd Chakra network with it, but yes, I was right, as her consumption of blood was far from purely physical and spiritual, but…

So that’s it. Why it’s… kind of arousing. Out of respect for Valeska’s overprotectiveness, not that it wasn’t warranted, I kept my biological urges under control, though I wasn’t usually a fan of that, feeling it to be unhealthy, but she was watching me closely, her eyes now shining a red similar to Ileana’s, her new nature reacting.

Then, a few faint beads of blood leaked down my arm, and her gaze was on them like a hawk’s. Seeing that, I gathered them up with wind, and offered the small bead to her. She hesitated, but gave in quickly, sticking out her tongue, and as the bead floated in, her cheeks reddened and she sighed, a rather… intense…  sound from an older woman. Immediately, her hair darkened further, and her skin shone a paler, cleaner white, more wrinkles around her eyes and neck fading.

As if to compete, Ileana sucked at me forcefully, and as more droplets scattered, I fed them to her blood child, watching the changes with my Eyes, seeing the absorption. There was one issue though. Yeah, this might be because my blood’s so enhanced, or because my League outstrips theirs…

“Best stop now. We wouldn’t want you to get fat.” I bopped Ileana gently on the shoulder, and she stubbornly sucked out some more, before finally withdrawing her lips.

“You shouldn’t say that, even in jest.” Natsumi warned playfully, but she’d realised something was up. “But yes, leave some room for the feast later.” She gestured to a passing maid, who brought over some champagne, which Natsumi handed to us all. “I’m sure blood’s nice for you, but… that’s not all there is to enjoy.”

“I… forgot myself.” Ileana blushed, clearly visible on her alabaster cheeks, which now seemed healthy and hale. “But yes…” She licked her lips. “I… felt a missing part of myself being filled. Much as it might be unpleasant, I require blood…”

“Just as we require food. I’m sure the cows who get turned into beef aren’t happy about it. At least unlike the stories, you don’t turn who you bite or kill them.” I soothed her. “So I don’t mind being your blood bank. Though I think you should mostly stick to ordinary food and drink, and only take blood when you need to, okay?”

“Yeah, wouldn’t want her getting addicted.” Natsumi winked.

It’s not that, but… “Yeah, in any case, do you feel satisfied?” The concentrated blood should be put on hold for now. At least for Iliana, we need the stronger fluids for other experiments.

Shyly, she took a sip of champagne, her eyes losing their crimson hue, now a mix of copper, sapphire and emerald once more. “I am. Thank you. You were delicious...”

“Damn wolf…” Valeska muttered. “I hate how I can’t argue though. It was… finer than this wine.” She sipped at her own champagne. “Anyway, I do respect the care you show for Ileana. And that you came out of your way to talk to us, when you must be very busy. So go, go!” With a mocking smile she waved me off. “My little light and I shall enjoy the music, in fine company.” She nodded at Natsumi, who agreed.

“Yes, I’ll speak to you later. And perhaps a little more. We’ll mingle. I’m sure Daiyu and Motoko won’t mind.”

With that, I said my farewells, and champagne in hand, I strolled the yacht, chatting to various of my women, until I came across a surprising but rather heartwarming sight. 

“Oh, if it isn’t Akio!” Christina greeted me boisterously. She wasn’t in her wheelchair, though she was being subtly supported by two of the women with her. On one side was Bethany, looking very fashionable in a punky, gothic purple dress, with black lace cardigan and heavy boots, while on the other Magatama supported her, lending Christina a shoulder. Christina herself was in a quite elegant silver dress, with a long, loose skirt, but tight bodice, a narrow belt cinching her waist. She’s wearing makeup too, not heavy, but tasteful. Bethany’s work, no doubt. Poor girl. Having to deal with Christina couldn’t have been easy. Behind them stood Mariam, or Scryer, as Christina called her, a bit out of place as she was wearing an ordinary dress, and somewhat drunk, by the flush in her cheeks and watery eyes.

That wasn’t the heartwarming scene though. What was rather sweet was that Aine had come here, likely brought to the Material by Ling, otherwise she’d have vanished quickly after leaving my Territory, and she was sitting at the buffet table with Tsurugi, who was stuffing her face with sweet treats, and competing with Akai, the flame-haired young Phoenix. On seeing me, Akai’s eyes widened, and she hastily swallowed what she’d been eating, and while she trembled a little, she didn’t run away or hide, which was certainly an improvement on her past behaviours. I guess that she’s grown more used to us now.

“Does Gin-san know you’re here?” I asked, and Akai, still trembling a little, nodded her small head, and some tufts of hair stuck up like an ahoge, resembling a feather.

“He does.” Bethany was the one to answer, and at my inquisitive gaze, she sighed. “Don’t worry, Zachary is with him, and with some of the other men. The Prince too, I hear.” She flourished her phone at me, not that I could see the messages. “He’s making such a big deal out of it, but I’m on a boat with more than one Princess. Anyway, yes, he knows she’s here. I’m not sure why though…”

“I wanted to play with her more!” Akai pouted, though not forgetting to scoop up a large cake in one hand and devour it in several bites, cheeks puffed out and chewing like a hamster. “And I heard there would be something fun here! It’s quite fun!” she allowed, sitting up straight in a manner she probably thought was imperious, copying Gin-san. I fired off a message of thanks to Ling for her efforts and got a snippy response saying the work of sending a few kids over was nothing compared to how I’d exploited her during the Pilgrimage, so with a smile, I stood beside Christina and the others and listened to Aine try and explain about the music shoot in the Mine.

When she was done, I patted her head, grinning warmly. “That’s great. You’ll be famous. And that will help the Goblins. The Kobolds too. Good girl.” As Aine smiled back at my friendly gesture, Tsurugi butted in, and was soon occupying my other hand.

“You’re a spoilt one, Tsurugi.” I teased, and she pouted.

“But I’m your sword, father! I should be the first thing in your hands!”

“How delightful.” Christina giggled, eyeing the display. “It almost makes me wish I had a child of my own.”

“You? Hah.” Mariam coughed and spluttered, downing some champagne the wrong way. When she recovered, she shot an accusing and unbelieving glare at Christina. “When you are allowed to be a mother, the world truly will have gone to hell.”

“You wound me, Scryer.” Christina slowly moved her hand to her chest, clutching where her heart would be, the movements slow and difficult, which did arouse my sympathy, I admitted to myself. Sadly, when she’s recovered, she’s got a lot more Eyes to donate to the hospital team, and also some promising prospects in Adamant…

“Wound you? Hardly.” Her tone was exasperated. “If such young ones were of use in your experiments, you’d use them up without a second thought.” Beside her, Bethany nodded, though she did cast a slightly troubled glance at our resident mad scientist. Christina blinked her watery, slightly unfocussed blue eyes, and then looked at me, her expression solemn.

Hey, why address me? It was Mariam who was calling you out…

“I suppose, while that’s hurtful, it’s not entirely untrue. Though I’d take no pleasure in it and use all safeguards possible. Now though… why, it’s a defeat to do things that way. Sacrifices are not to be forced upon others, no matter the reason for it, yes? You’re the boss, Akio, so we do it your way. Besides…” Her expression was suddenly oddly solemn. “You’d maybe be right, Scryer, but for different reasons.” She took a moment to compose herself. “I suppose my own parents are hardly ideal role models. I would have considered myself a success story, raised properly. After all, I am a genius…” she boasted.

I guess she can’t help her pride, even in these circumstances, Though she did have a very successful career, so it’s not like I don’t understand…

“But…” she smiled at Mariam. “…my perspective has changed. My parents didn’t exactly care for silly things like ‘emotional needs’ or ‘having fun’ or even much kindness. After all, people were only responsible for their own actions and wellbeing, to their eyes. As I was responsible for my own successes, once they’d done their familial duties and raised me to an adult. Quite cold, really. No wonder…” She tilted her head with an effort. “But now that clearly seems an abdication of responsibility. Of course, I can hardly blame them for everything. Nobody knows better than me that I had a rather impaired sense of emotional range. Don’t you pity me?”

“A little. But I pity the subjects of your experiments more.” I shot her down, and she let out a dry giggle.

“As I suppose you should. Anyway, this is depressing, and I’m not here to bring down the mood. The past me is simply that, dear Scryer. Now, little miss Christina doesn’t make those mistakes. So, yes, looking at them, I do feel I was very wrong. Even for the right reasons, there are things we can’t do, yes? Though…” Her gaze seemed very intense despite barely being able to focus.

“Yeah. I get it.” Tan and Shiro. Though I hope and pray that by the time I’d have been able to reach the Six Paths, I’d have cooled down my fury and wouldn’t commit worse atrocities than Christina ever has just for revenge. If it was to save Shiro’s life, that’s one thing, but… revenge is ultimately futile, at least that sort. Telling the Buddha what he’d missed out on was the type of revenge I could get behind, however.

“Marvellous. We do understand each other. We’re certainly… friends, I hope?”

I blinked at Christina’s unusual question. Friends? Are we?

“That pause really hurts my feelings. After all we’ve shared… Bethany, Scryer… Magatama… don’t you feel he’s being too harsh?”

“Not at all.” Marian disagreed. Magatama merely shook her head, not knowing much about her situation, while Bethany…

“You know, my dad told me to stay far away from you. He said you were a ‘single-minded witch without any compassion, only ice in your veins’…”

“Poetic, but rather hurtful…” Christina murmured, but let Bethany carry on.

“Now he’s telling me I can’t come home, and that I have to look after you, help you…” She shot a sideways glance at me, and I had to chuckle.

“I know. It’s Adam White’s plan. He’s not entirely wrong, is he? If I did have an American girlfriend who begged me to help their homeland, I’d definitely look on it positively.  But…”

“Yes. Christina Bakker.” Bethany agreed, and as Mariam laughed, Christina spoke sadly to Magatama, though her smile betrayed her intent.

“They are being so cold to me. Here I am, so very beautiful, personable and eager, being dismissed. But I’m not one to give up. After all, science is all about testing, refinement, and repetition. And more importantly…” I wasn’t used to seeing such a serious look on her face. “…Bethany, your father is using me as an excuse. And he’s right to. Isn’t he?”

At her insistent stare, as I struggled not to laugh at the way her eyes rolled, twitched and blinked, leaking tears, spoiling her efforts to be serious, I nodded. “Yes, it’s not that he’s particularly keen on helping out Adam, I’m sure. He just needs an excuse so Bethany and her brother will stay here. Things are… complicated. Besides…” I tried to be positive, so as not to worry Bethany further. “…just like Pilgrimage, we can help you both train to use your gifts and protect yourself. We can pay wages too.”

“Do I get wages?” Christina asked suddenly, and I shrugged.

“You know you do. As do Chen Na and Ling. Not that you have any interest in spending money…”

“That’s not true. I have to invest in… how would Shiro put it… ah yes, Epic armour slots. After all, the stronger the armour, the scantier the fabric, yes?”

“You’re picking up the wrong habits…” I couldn’t help but chuckle at that. “Though I will allow you look good in that dress.”

“A compliment. I’m reaping the rewards already.” Christina smirked, and Bethany broke in, suddenly scared.

“Is… is it really that bad back home? I know dad’s spooked, but… that’s our fault. I got hurt so badly when this all started, thanks to Zack being reckless. And… I guess the way the world is now isn’t helping. But…” she shook her head, and I glanced at Tsurugi and the others. Fortunately, they’d all grown bored listening and had gone back to the food, Tsurugi finally letting go of me.

It must be nice to be so carefree,

I’m not carefree, father. It’s just… I’m your sword. If there’s a problem, I’ll cut it for you!

She was close enough to engage our bond, and her thoughts filled me with an amused sense of affection.

Sadly, not every problem can be cut. But that’s good. Some problems require wisdom, and some benevolence. So your sisters can shine too.

Yes, I think that is a good thing, father. But… I’m still your sword!

“Well, it’s… troublesome.” I gave a brief summary of the situation, which agitated Mariam greatly, and left Bethany aghast.

“If that’s the case…” She grabbed my arm suddenly, and Christina tutted as she would have fallen as she moved, if Magatama hadn’t steadied her. “What of my dad’s chances?” Bethany continued. “He’ll be a target, he’ll be in danger. Our mom too.” Her face paled, and her eyes were on the verge of shedding tears. Yet it was Christina who comforted her.

“Beth, don’t fret.” Her smile, while lopsided, seemed genuine. “Your father knows what he does is important. You might not believe it…” she struggled to puff out her chest pridefully, a dangerous move considering the dress she was wearing, and after a moment I looked away diplomatically. Christina tutted again, but it wasn’t annoyed, simply resigned. “…but he’s not a fool. He’ll have contingencies, though he’s not as paranoid as Adam. Besides…” She winked at me. “…Akio here’s quite fond of you and your brother now, and I’m sure he won’t stand idly by. It would go against everything he’s criticised me for if he did. Not that inaction for those beyond your reach is comparable, but… you’re one of his people now, whether you know it or not, Beth. And that means he’s not going to let you cry.”

“You’re too clever for your own good, sometimes.” Mariam sighed. “I was a bit worried I’d be disappearing after the mess with my infiltration being exposed. By you, I might add, you abgeh, foolish woman!”

“Oh, I think that was all for the best…” Christina began, but Mariam exploded.

“Eshi glookh, stop being a damn donkey and pretending this has nothing to do with you!” Her tone was bitter and angry. “We can’t all be oblivious to the ways of the world! It’s a miracle you’re still alive, and out of prison. And worse, you nearly dragged me down with you!”

“I understand your frustrations, but… I doubt very much Adam can do much to you now.” I placated her, and Mariam turned to me, giving me a furious glower, before taking a deep breath and visibly composing herself.

“I’m sorry. I should know better than to get angry, but… she tests my patience.”

“She tests us all. But… and while it pains me to defend her, I probably should… I think she genuinely does believe this is all for the best. Hard as that is to imagine.”

“I’m rather happy you sided with me…” Christina agreed, but her expression was rather rueful. “…but I’m a little hurt you think I don’t understand. It is for the best, Scryer. Adam has so few he can trust. He might hate what you are, what Akio is, and Bethany here, but… who else can he turn to? Titan is trustworthy, and there are a handful of others, but… his back is against the wall. That’s when Adam is at his most dangerous, but also his most predictable. It’s like chess, you see?”

“Chess?” Bethany asked. She was still sniffling at the thought of her father being in danger, but she scrubbed at her eyes angrily and tried to appear composed, even as she used Magatama’s offered handkerchief to dab at her face. “You don’t seem the sort.”

“Oh, I know how to play. I’m actually quite good.” Christina drawled. “But it doesn’t thrill me. It’s just a game, and it’s never going to lead to unknown knowledge, to something new. What I mean is, with most of the pieces Adam can control off the board, his moves are constrained. And if he’s come here to Britain, to seek Akio’s aid, well, Akio’s good at getting concessions. Do take Scryer under your wing too, Akio. After all, I think soon I’ll be ready to try adding her Eyes into the mix, with your assistance, of course.”

“Ters goghmen aptagem kezi!” Mariam cried furiously, raising one hand, before lowering it with great difficultly. “I would love to slap some sense into you, Christina, you fool. I’m not one of your toys. And I’m hurt that the only reason you care is so you can use me in your experiments. You never change. Perhaps I am the imbecile, not you, for expecting any different.”

“That’s where you are wrong, Mariam.” As Christina used her name for once, rather than her American codename, Mariam froze, shocked. “I see you as a friend. Genuinely. Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t help out in the grand plans we have. But we’ve been working together a while now, so if you need any help from me, just ask. What else are friends for, yes?”

“You’re just trying to get at my eyes…” Mariam muttered, embarrassed, and I chuckled.

“I’m sure she is, but… she’s also not a liar.”

“Yes, you know me well, Akio. I have a few little flaws…”

“A few…” Mariam murmured, and Christina nodded, the effort fatiguing her ravaged body.

“A few. Yes, they might be quite large ones, but I’m working on them!” She seemed proud, and while Tsurugi, Aine and Akai continued to eat and drink gleefully, I listened to the two of them argue. Yes, I can accuse her of a lot, but Christina is trying to improve herself.

My wry thoughts were interrupted by Bethany, who had stopped sniffling but had dark circles around her eyes. “What about dad? There… there must be something you can do?” She gazed at me earnestly, before swallowing. “If you can help him, then… I’ll be very grateful.”

“Back of the line, Beth!” Christina teased, and she turned her head so Bethany couldn’t see and actually winked clumsily at me, to my astonishment. “You can’t just jump the queue, and you’re my assistant! Without your help, I’ll go back to dressing in worn jeans and plain jumpers!”

“No, you won’t. You’re a quick learner, you know how to dress to highlight your charms now…” Bethany shot back, and I realised Christina had distracted her from her self-destructive desperation. Good job!

“Maybe so, but I still have a lot I don’t understand. Besides… you should value yourself more, Bethany.”

“Coming from you, that pisses me off!” She stomped one foot, drawing a curious look from Tsurugi, who glanced at me, and at my reassuring nod, she went back to her eating. Realising she was making a scene, Bethany took a deep breath, before flushing a dark crimson. “I… didn’t mean that. I’m… I’m a Chosen, yes? I can affect luck. Zack would be grateful too. We’d… we’d help you. Do whatever’s needed. I just… I’m stuck here, dad says we can’t go home, I hate being helpless…”

“I have a feeling Akio’s been thinking about the problem, so relax, Beth. You’ve got some of the greatest minds and the foremost experts here!” Christina reassured her. “So… am I right?”

At her question, I agreed. “The issue is… look, it’s easier if I show you.” Weaving light element, which interested Magatama, leaving her watching on, I created the images of the brains I’d seen, as well as healthy, ordinary counterparts, and lit up the changed areas. Such illusory workings came easy to me now, and I was once more impressed at how far I’d come. With further to go, though… I’m rather boxed in at the moment. No, focus on the issue at hand…

“The problem is that the affected brains aren’t injured, so they can’t just be Healed. But we’re talking prevention here, and how to stop the brains being altered again if we could fix them. I’d considered a device that scans the brain using aether, and locks in the structure, preventing any changes. I could do it with Shapercrafting, I think. But…”

“Let me guess. You worry about the potential side-effects. If the brain can’t change, then new neurons and connections won’t form, so… no new memories, yes? Permanently stuck in an endless moment. How could one function that way?”

I nodded. “Exactly. It’s useless if it just locks things down entirely. The conflict there could be worse than the danger we’re trying to solve.” As Mariam and especially Bethany listened intently, Magatama asked a question, puzzled.

“Are you saying memories are… physical? Material? Are they not part of the spirit?”

“They have to be Material. We’ve done enough experiments on that to know.” I disagreed, and it was Christina who frowned, understanding.

“Yes. That’s unmistakably true. Without question. I know more than enough about biology to assert that. But… is that only the case? You should know better than most, yes, Akio?” Christina was excited now, and she spasmed as she explained, waving one arm with as much animation as her fragile body could muster. “Your enviable girlfriend Tsukiko… her body was cremated to ashes, yet she remembers everything still, yes? And not just her… Tamamo-no-Mae, her memories exist not just within her, but…”

“Within the Tribulation too.” I was excited now, understanding. “You’re right, Magatama. The spiritual body is also a repository! And if we think of memories like videos…”

“They can be stored on multiple medias. Pictures, DVD’s, hard drives…” Christina added.

“So all that would be missing would be a way to access the spiritual copies of the memories. No, there’s a problem. I daresay that the changes to the Material could be reflected in the Spiritual, so we’d have to lock that too. It wouldn’t be that easy….”

“Maybe not, but if we think of it as adding an additional receiver for now…” Christina suggested.

“Oh, so… we stream in the memories constantly, so even if the brain can’t accept new ones until the device is deactivated, they can still be generated and accessed. Damn, that would be impossibly complicated though. I don’t understand the brain that well… I bet even you don’t.”

“Of course, but… think again of Tamamo-no-Mae. And also why you are training up professional medical staff as Ether Healers and Chirurgeons.” Christina pressed, and I understood immediately.

“I see. Aether can make miracles, it’s just how costly it would be. That’s an issue in itself. A power source…”

“Ask the experts. Ixitt’s current specialty is small, potent batteries and energy generation. I have heard tell of Etherite batteries, high density storage, with which he plans to mimic our electrical counterparts. Yes, it would be finite, but…”

“Replaceable, so long as we built in a warning feature to show it running low. The next issue is it can’t be customised. It’s not like I can go around making one specifically for each person who needs one, like Bethany’s father…”

“Oh, but again, the solution is staring you right in the face. I am.” Christina giggled. “We have Eyes. You can Shapercraft, which is making living artefacts, isn’t it? How positively like a mad scientist. You’re a man after my own heart, Akio…”

“I see. It… could work.” I pulled out some materials from storage and created a rudimentary, small hexagonal ring-shaped device, like a scaled-down satellite dish, which fit in one hand. With Blue Akionite as the base material, I charged it directly with my soullight, which drew in the surrounding aether.

“I’m good for one more, I promise.” Christina glanced at Bethany. “If it sets Beth’s mind at ease, I don’t mind being blind for the rest of the night.” She turned her head painfully slowly, gazing out at the passing skyline. “Seen one city at night, seen them all.”

“You’ve no sense of romance.” I chided, and she snorted.

“On the contrary. I surprise myself sometimes. But I’m not interested in being romantically entangled with a city. Oh, don’t look at me like that, Akio, I’m joking. Women with a sense of humour are sexy, yes? Now go on, I shall Donate a final pair of Eyes. It’s a good thing we stopped early today.”

“They… seem to be on the same wavelength….” Mariam spoke to Beth and Magatama in disbelief, and we both froze.

“No way!” I protested, the same moment Christina declared “Oh yes, absolutely!”

At that, Beth, who was still troubled, couldn’t help but giggle, before her laughter escalated, and she was soon leaking tears of a different sort. “That’s too funny. Ms Mariam, you’re right, they’re totally in sync…”

“Call me simply Mariam. I’m older than you, but not so much you should treat me with too much respect. It would feel odd, considering Christina here is so… infuriatingly forward.” she paused. “At least we should get a little satisfaction.”

“How cold.” Christina tittered. “Anyone would think you take pleasure in my suffering, Mariam.”

“A little. You deserve it.” she shot back. “Though if you are trying to seduce him, you are doing a terrible job of it. Not only are you ruining his restful evening with work, it is very hard to see a woman as attractive when she’s been in some of the states you’ve been in.”

“I don’t know about that. Hmm… Magatama, while you’re here…?” I asked, and with a smile she materialised her jewel self, hanging it around my neck. I sent a quick text to Shiro, and after she’d come and buffed my relevant Skills, and asked a few questions, she’d departed, eager to get back to teasing Kana, and I cracked my knuckles.

“This… is probably going to sting.” I advised Christina, and she chuckled.

“Oh, undoubtedly. But we both want the best for Beth, don’t we? You know… I’m just delighted I can truly contribute to the wonders of science. Helpful wonders. I’m sure Chris will be safe. So long as there is life, yes? Although…” She gestured for Bethany to come closer, and she clumsily whispered in her ear. Bethany reddened, glanced at me, looked away, turned back to me, then punched Christina in the arm, though gently, so as not to hurt her in her fragile state. Even so, Christina flinched, bruising up.

“You don’t have to listen to her.” I promised Bethany, who sighed. “We’ve got plenty of methods other than that. And to think, I was starting to think you weren’t so absolutely terrible, Christina.” I tutted, and as scalpels of aether formed, her Spiritual Eyes were removed. She groaned in pain and shuddered, tears of blood leaking down her cheeks, only to shake as my aether poured into her fragile body. I felt a great resistance as Ether Healing tried to reconstruct her. I didn’t quite understand why Donating prevented proper recovery, but on a whim, instead of flowing in aether, I leaked my soullight, and Christina let out a rather muffled gasp, face reddening, and suddenly the resistance lessened.

Wait. That… makes a lot of sense. And if so… Mae was certainly in far better shape now than the first time I’d Shapercrafted her, but she still was imperfect. I think…

“That’s… quite the feeling…” Christina’s lip bled for a moment where her teeth had clashed with it, though the wound healed up under my surge of aether and soullight. “Very… intimate.”

“I’ll say.” I grumbled. “We might have to rethink our plans. Donating is surely more detrimental to you long-term than I’d expected. Fortunately I’ve got the Skills buffed by Magatama and Shiro, and a talent for messing with the Truesoul. So just hold tight a moment…”

Your Skill, Truesoul Crafting, has increased from Rank 1 to Rank 2. The Truesoul is the immutable, enduring core of a being. It should not be damaged, yet… you have seen fragments of it carved away by a shard of Divine Adherence given form and felt the touch of strands from both Seed and Valkyrie alike. You have also seen a foolish Donator give up Material flesh, enduring Spirit and eternal Truesoul despite being pitifully weak and fragile.

To repair is often harder than to forge new creations or to break the old. You can use your Soullight to infuse into another’s Truesoul, though this is a delicate operation. Too much and too strong, and you will run the risk of unpredictably changing the recipient’s Truesoul, too little, and it shall be rejected.

Your own Truesoul shall be slightly strengthened, and the rate of repair to any damage will slightly accelerate. You are better able to brace against the oppression of overwhelming League, and your understanding of the integration of Truesoul and the Vessel within which it exists, has increased very slightly. You output additional Soullight and your capacity to use it is strengthened.

Those who have integrated your Soullight, even after flavouring it to their own aspected selves, much as the Seeds of the most perfect Tree in existence experience, shall find it easier to be affected and resonate with any Bonds and Connections you share. Be careful upon whom and what you use this upon, for Soullight is not a power, an infinite resource, such as Aether, or even Adherence, to use lightly.

Damn, that’s… quite the description. Careful who I use my soullight on, huh? Too late.

Looking again at Christina’s Donator Class, I picked out the relevant parts…

Donator is a Class those who sacrifice their very Flesh, Spirit and even Truesoul willingly to empower and rebuild others obtain…. Soullight generation is slightly increased... As League increases, donated parts adapt to their hosts with greater ease.

I see, so at the core, the reason that these parts can be shared and integrate with others isn’t purely through Ether Healing and Chirurgery, though they certainly help, no… the base is Christina’s feeble soullight…

“Oh, I can still see. And I feel a lot better…” Christina blinked her blue eyes at us, after they had regrown in a rather gory spectacle, of course. “See, Mariam, nothing at all to worry about! A little pain, and you’ll be as good as new!”

Magatama glanced at me, and felt what I was feeling, as she was a being influenced by Connections as well, since to enhance beneficial buffs like she did was, in itself, a type of bond.

I’m afraid so. Looks like we have a new follower on the Path.

Connection is not exclusive. Your way is one of generosity, and it reminds me of… Magatama communicated with me mentally since I was wearing her, much as Tsurugi did. She fell silent, as if struggling for a memory.

…warmth. Fire. The hearth of home. I think… No, I don’t remember. Not… not clearly. It’s like a heat haze, or a fog…

My heart ached and I knew the time would come when we’d have to talk about Magatama’s past existence, before she became part of the Imperial Regalia, but for now I simply reached out and took her hand with my free one. She blinked in surprise, but quickly squeezed me back, ignoring the knowing, amused and somehow more mature expression Tsurugi was suddenly directing at her.

You’ll remember soon enough. Trust me. And your sisters, and I, and everyone else, will help you find whatever resolution your heart dictates. For now…

I was saddened I couldn’t clutch her magatama bead form with my other hand, but… yeah, my hands are full… I was holding the dish-shaped metal, and Christina’s freshly removed Eyes. I could see faint, almost invisible streams of soullight leaking from them, a tiny flicker, so small that even my Eyes wouldn’t have picked them up normally, but I was humming with multiple, enhanced buffs, and knew what I was searching for. Yes. There’s a connection there. One I can’t quite understand, but…

I glanced at the Connections I held with others.

Hey bro, don’t do that! It feels… a bit … wow, I don’t know how to describe it!

I do. Hyacinth added. I was looking at Lovers’ Link, and Brother’s Bond too, to see if I could observe any similarities, and while the bonds were complete, not leaking like the Eyes Christina had given, preventing me from investigating (and I certainly wasn’t going to break a bond just to check my hypothesis) I felt I wasn’t too far wrong.

It’s a shame Rose is silent at the moment. I could use her advice. But then, this might be out of her area of expertise. I can ask Tan, but… this isn’t dissimilar to Favours, which she admits she doesn’t know much about the construction of.

The connections go deep. Hyacinth continued. And are not merely of the spirit nor the flesh that clothes us. Mistress Shaeula has indeed awakened a wonderous gift.

Of course. Shaeula’s thoughts were amused and proud. I am confident in my own strength. Yet… what it does now is not what I could do when younger.

Younger? Eri mocked gently. You mean a few months ago?

I also believe I understand. Asha echoed Hyacinth’s thoughts. It is like my Tree and I, in some ways.

Like your Tree. Yes. I see. I get it. A little, anyway…

As I shared my suspicions with the girls in my mind, Christina watched on eagerly.

“I feel so much better now. And so much closer to you! You do like me after all, Akio. What a shy boy you are!”

“Don’t do that!” Bethany interrupted. “Remember what I told you! You’re too needy and too pushy, and men hate that! At least any decent man would.”

“No, this time I’m not meaning it in that way.” Christina insisted, shaking her arms and legs, which were in significantly better shape than earlier. “Lovers’ Link. And yes, I know it’s not just for lovers, nor do I expect you’ve suddenly fallen for my charms.” She was all business now. “But I feel significantly stronger, and smarter too. My internal testing shows an increase of… hmm, without properly assessing it, I can’t be certain, but… around sixty points of Intellect?”

I blinked, stunned at her accuracy, and how quickly she’d noticed the difference. “That’s… probably within a point or two of it.” I conceded.

“Wonderful. I was already so very clever, so now I shall be unstoppable, I’m sure. I also feel something else, something far beyond me, but it’s definitely there. Now then…” She rubbed her hands together. “Even if you pitied my battered and woeful state, I’m still rather thankful. Just how did you restore me?”

“That’s…” There had been one other message from Yggdrasil while I worked on Christina.

Your Skill, Ether Healing Rank 11 has become Soullight Healing Rank 11, marching onwards through the fifth vista, and with this new understanding, the way to the sixth impasse has opened. You now have the ability to utilise your Soullight and the Soullight of others to restore and fortify all aspects of a being, though to use such is to invite disaster if mishandled, and Soullight is not a resource to be used recklessly, lest the consequences be everlasting. [Class: Mythic] [Type: Law]

“…not something I should repeat often. It could be unpredictable.” I warned, and Christina nodded.

“If you say so. Now then… we’ve taken up far too much of your time, I can see the eager hordes gathering…” She smirked at me, as indeed, I could see Hinata, amongst others, waiting patiently for her turn to monopolise my time. “…can you at least make the device you planned to?”

“Yes. We’ll… talk more about the nature of your Donating anther time. For now, rest up as planned, we don’t need more Eyes for the staff at the hospital yet, they need to gain a grounding in the relevant supplemental Skills first anyway. Let’s see…”

Using Shapercrafting, and yes, sadly, a little soullight, though I was careful to limit the use, mostly as a catalyst to draw in and concentrate aether, the Eyes broke down, though their network and properties were placed into the hexagonal sensor, and I took out a blue sapphire from the Mines and set it in the centre. Weaving Shapercraft, the end result was an artificial Chakra network of sorts, woefully crude and simpler than the Eyes, but functional for a single task.

“Mimicking my Eyes. How charming.” Christina snickered. “So, is it done?”

Freezing And Observing Jewel Eye…

Glancing at the description briefly, I nodded. “Yes, though again, we can’t mass-produce this. But oddly enough, your composite Eyes had the proper adherence to make this work. After all, paralysing and freezing in place isn’t too dissimilar to the locking effect on the state of the brain we want, and this also inspects and reveals the details. It’s only part of the picture, again, we need it powered, and then a way to, once the brain is scanned, create a device to alleviate the problems with new memories, and no doubt many other concerns we haven’t thought of… honestly, protecting from aetheric abilities would be far easier. This method our unknown foe is spreading is damn insidious. It’s…” I paused as Christina reached out and grabbed the device from my hands.

“I’ll take this. You’re very busy, and I’m eager to work onit. As for the other steps, let we professionals handle it. Huh… fascinating.” Christina inspected it with her own Eyes, which seemed to only give her a little pain as she used them, her condition having greatly stabilised. “I can’t see everything you can, which is a great disappointment, if I could have your eyes, I could work true miracles, but if I had to describe this, I’d say it’s… almost like artificial life. Mechanical, in a way, if such spiritual things can be. It reminds me a bit of that rather foul wooden wheel… or perhaps even Shaeula’s little gold ring. Oh, far less grand, of course, crude…”

Seeing my expression, she let out a rather delighted chuckle. “…don’t feel bad, Akio. You’ve whipped it up in no time at all! If you could do everything yourself, why would you keep us around? Don’t worry, Ixitt, Bjarki… and the newcomer Valerian. Together I am sure we can sort something out, and soon. After all…” She took Bethany’s arm playfully. “…I do owe my… etiquette… teacher a favour, and besides, Adam would kill for one of these, if he could bring himself to trust it. Which he probably can’t, more fool him. Now then…”

As Christina rambled on, device in hand, I removed Magatama and handed herself back to her, quite the mental conundrum which only occurred with the Regalia. As her jewel form vanished, a waiting Hinata caught my eye, beckoning me over, a smile on her lips, and, with one last glance at Christina, who was assuring Bethany that once the device was ready, and Fenrir had established a beachhead in the United States, protecting her father would be rather easy… I’m not sure about that, the Freezing And Observing Jewel Eye is just the first piece of the puzzle… I said my farewells, smiling as Akai waved me off, her cheeks stuffed with food, and put aside that for now.

I’m not supposed to be working tonight. Damn, when will I truly get a proper break to relax? Have I secretly become a workaholic? If so, I daresay father will be overjoyed…