On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

Chihiya Yae, Adamant, Akio’s Territory, the Boundary

“There is no need to worry. It can be a little frightening, but we have the best medical care available…” Takeyabashi Marika-chan, the adorable little shrine maiden from her hometown was saying, her manner polite and mature. Beside her, the strange doll Azuki was sitting, dressed in her usual black, lacy dress, kicking her little feet idly.

“…if there are any problems with your body when you train, then we can call back someone with expertise from the mansion, so there is no need for concern.” she finished, and Yae smiled as she looked at her best friend, Rika-chan. Rika-chan had changed to a red and white hakama, looking the part of a shrine maiden, while Yae herself was in the military-style uniform of Adamant, in black and gold. It’s a cute uniform. Hinata-chan has great taste.

The tight black skirt, which seemed almost like leather, but was some strange, likely priceless material, was cut short, longer than a miniskirt, but still above the knees, and showed off her legs perfectly. The crisp shirt she wore, paired with a black jacket of the same material as the skirt, gave her a powerful, imposing and yet sexy look, which Yae was proud of. I’m cute, and I know it. Rika-chan and me, we’ve always stood out. Okay, Nishimorioka is home to a surprising number of beautiful people, boys and girls alike. I mean, there’s Ri-Ri and Ai-chan, isn’t there? But we… we always knew how to make the best of our natural cuteness.

“Isn’t it amazing that Marika-chan is so important now?” she whispered, and Rika-chan shrugged.

“I’d say that our town is amazing as a whole. After all, when you think Akio-kun and Ai-chan, little Ri-Ri and… maybe even you…”

“Don’t tease me, Rika-chan!” Yae pouted, though she secretly felt a thrill of pleasure as her friend linked her to these amazing goings-on, which had consumed her thoughts since the day of the baseball. “I’m still a nobody. Though… I want to be somebody. Not just somebody, but… oh, you get it, don’t you?”

“I do.” Rika-chan laughed happily. “I’m not sure whether you’re fearless or just still an idiot though. I certainly don’t have the bravery for it.” She glanced around, and Yae couldn’t help but follow her gaze. The Territory was full of fellow Adamant members and trainees, from all walks of life, but there were some that stood out. The girls of the nobility, acquaintances of Hinata-chan, Motoko-chan and Natsumi-chan, were all quite intimidating, but there were swarms of idols, including the entirety of AKB0048, and Red and White. There was even a small group of wealthy-looking Korean women, who were probably university students or a bit older. Those ones are in Adamant uniforms. They are my rivals!

“Though honestly, if you think about it, this certainly isn’t a bad place to score a boyfriend.” Rika-chan mused. “The guys here are either rich noble sons, or experienced fighters. To say nothing of a few other surprises.” There were the Way-Wardens, and while the trainees skewed heavily female, which Yae suspected was honestly more down to Shaeula’s tastes than Aki’s, there were a few males, and seeing handsome Elves was certainly something, though Yae was surprised at how disinterested she was other than a little mild curiosity, unlike Rika-chan, who was positively giddy at the sight of them.

I guess she’s right. I am an idiot. But not a hopeless one. Besides… even in failure… Joining Adamant wasn’t an easy decision. Yae hadn’t ever really been proud of herself before, other than for superficial things, like being cute, or how boys liked her. But now she was putting in effort and had decided her career path. Not every Adamant member is here for Akio. Sure, everyone accepts it could happen, but… well, in the future, Adamant will mean something. I want to mean something!

Thinking unfamiliar thoughts, Yae listened to the last of Marika-chan’s speech alongside Rika-chan, and when she was done, and they all split into groups to train, the two of them found themselves with Red and White.

“We meet again.” Tamami-chan, the shrine maiden idol that the two of them idolised, smiled warmly, and Yae exchanged a glance with Rika-chan, their expressions, of red-faced excitement and enthusiasm, almost perfect mirrors.

“Hi there!” Kanako-chan chirped, her short stature and high energy making her seem a little younger.

“I remember you from backstage at the concert.” the more stoic Tsubame-chan, her long hime-cut bangs suiting the shrine maiden hakama-style idol outfit she wore, greeted them as well. “It seems we’re destined to be friends.”

“That’s great!” Rika-chan giggled, suddenly even more excited, and Yae knew how she felt, although… I’m delighted to hang out with them, I love their songs, but… I’m here to work, to train.

Seeing Yae remaining silent, Rika-chan turned to look, and was surprised at her stoic expression. Yae winked, before talking to the idols. “Yes, friends. We’d like that, but…” Yae tapped her chest, where the diamond badge of Adamant sat, shining proudly. “…we’re here to work. I may be a lowly grunt in Adamant, but… I’m going to rise the ranks. And to do that, I have to put in the effort. As for you three… you must be rightly proud of Kanda-Myōjin shrine, and the Kami who dwell there. And I’ll be honest, you looked great introducing the shrine.”

“Thank you.” Tamami-chan was wearing the fanciest shrine maiden-themed idol outfit, and as she straightened, her poise impeccable, Yae suppressed a flash of envy. I could be like her. No, I will be. No, I’ll surpass her!

“You’re quite dedicated. Honestly… joining Adamant… it’s quite scary, in a way. Being a Cultivator sounds harsh too, but… in this world, a world where the Kami are real, and danger threatens us and who we love, and can strike unexpectedly… well, honestly, after talking to the idols from AKB, we have a lot more trust for Akio-kun.”

“Not more than Yae-chan.” Rika-chan giggled. “After all, she’ll tell you she was Akio-kun’s first ever date! It’s not strictly true, as we had a sort of group date beforehand…”

“That didn’t count, Ai-chan was there!” Yae retorted, only for Rika-chan to roll her eyes knowingly.

“So was I. But I know my place. At the time, Akio-kun seemed a little exotic and exciting, yet still familiar. Now, he’s out of my league. But Yae-chan still can’t forget the way he won her in a duel, or that sweet first date…”

“Oh?” Kanako-chan giggled, curious. “Tell me more, it sounds exciting!”

“It’s not as interesting as you think.” Yae rolled her eyes, exasperated. “It was just a stupid wager, and a game of baseball. The date… that was something I won’t forget though. But don’t get me wrong…” She was serious now. “I… like Aki. I do. But I didn’t join Adamant just for that. I did it to matter, to protect my friends and family. I hope you all make the right choices too. The day Kanda-Myōjin burns, or your family are suffering… will be the day it’s too late to regret!”

At her serious words, the others gaped at her, before Tamami-chan nodded. “You’re right, of course. It’s… why we are all here. So, we’re supposed to be learning elements for self-defence and to strengthen ourselves. I’ve seen the footage on WTV. It just seems… complicated.”

“Oh, it is!” Yae agreed, exchanging a glance with Rika-chan. “Fortunately… we have some experience, and probably also a few Skills. We’ve been run through some training by Ai-chan, she’s Aki’s sister. And we have Boundary experience. A little battle experience too.”

“That’s right.” Rika-chan agreed, feeling proud. “Of course, we’re still newbies in that regard, so… listen to the instructors. But… well, nobody’s expecting miracles. Practise, get hurt a bit, get healed up, and try again.”

Yae nodded. “The two cute twins from Hikawa-Kawagoe…”

“Oh, you mean Chiasa-chan and Chiaki-chan?” Tamami-chan asked. “They were famous in true shrine circles even before this. Hikawa-Kawagoe shrine has the Hikawa family, who have a strong bloodline. Hikawa Ren-kun is respected too…”

“Yeah, the kid…” Rika-chan snorted, despite him only being a couple of years younger than them, most likely. “He’s not bad, I hear. Going out with one of Kana-chan’s friends now. I’m jealous.”

As they gossiped, Yae sighed. It’s all right. We’ll get down to it shortly. It’s only natural to be exciting. Today’s been an… amazing day. Everyone could feel their strengths grow. It was faint, but Yae knew what to look for, as she had some small experience, as she and Rika-chan had bragged about. Besides, Aki… he and the Princesses of two countries… never mind that. I’m jealous, but I also feel oddly proud of him as well… what matters is… the Regalia miracle, and…

Yae shook her head as several Fae came over to start the training, bringing barrels of blue metal filled with multi-hued energy. I think Yukiko-chan would make a far better Empress than her idiot brother. He was a jerk. And… if she’s Empress… Yae didn’t exactly pride herself on her academics, but even she remembered pre-War Japanese history, and how the Imperial Family was structured, and their… marriage habits…

No, there’s no point dwelling on that. Instead, I should focus on successfully growing my strength until I’m worth an invite to the inner circle and can train at the mansion. But no pushing too hard. Not realising she was grinning, she confirmed her own resolve. If I get careless and end up needing Ether Healing, it only wastes precious time for others. If I’m going to rise the ranks, then… I’ll need to be responsible. Oh, my parents will be so confused and proud of me…

That amusing thought fresh in her mind, Yae quickly took charge of her small group, to Rika-chan’s amazement, and soon they were working on the basic groundwork, showing the idols of Red and White the way they had learned from Ai-chan…

***

Yukiko, Princess Mikasa, Shaeula’s Mansion, the Lands of the Fae

“This… is not how things work.” Shiro was saying, no, not Shiro, but the being inside her, the Goddess Taṇhā. Her eyes were crimson and her hair shimmering with ruby flames, and her skin was starting to darken to a rich, chocolatey brown, and the aura she was radiating, her League, was increasing.

I’ve done my due diligence, of course. Since I learned about her, I have researched her with what information I could gather. Ignoring the bizarre fact we have tales of her, a Goddess that dwells in realms so far from here I can hardly imagine it, and who has never set foot on Earth until now… what information I could find… hardly does her justice. It seems that the core of the story, that her father set her to seduce the Buddha and she was ignored, is true, but the details… well, it’s understandable she doesn’t want to talk about them…

Seeing the way Tan was glancing, Yukiko resisted the urge to shake her head.

…especially now. After all, who would want to talk about a man they pursued in the past, when… a new relationship is beginning.

“Why not?” Asha, the Dryad asked. Yukiko felt relaxed around her, unlike some of the others, probably because she was so quiet and self-effacing. Though being as she’s pregnant, it gives me complicated feelings. I’m… not planning to have a child any time soon. I can’t, until Japan is safe, but… I certainly will at some point. But… by then, their half-brothers or sisters… no, I heard Dryads always give birth to Dryads, so… half-sisters, I suppose… might even be adults. But then… I don’t know much about the growth of spiritual beings…

“It is surely no different to what he has done before.” Asha continued reasonably, and Yukiko found herself nodding, turning away from Akio and his sister, observing the two Regalia with them, the small Yata and the womanly Magatama. Seeing that, Asha nodded, as if her point was proved.

“Is it any different to giving life to me and my Tree, or these spirits here, or any number of other feats?”

Tan seemed frustrated, though her expression was half a smile, Shiro probably watching. “Taken in… isolation, perhaps not. But… do you think I am a fool?”

“Perish the thought.” Yukiko shook her head. “We are endlessly grateful for all you have done for Akio and will… continue to do. Honestly… I’m a little intimidated.” Yukiko chuckled weakly. I’m entirely confident I’ve made the right choices in my life, but… if I’m intimidated by any…

She couldn’t help glancing at Hyacinth, who was listening quietly, her purple eyes with a silver sheen always watching. …no, it’s not fair to be wary of her. She has proven her devotion and… there’s something fragile and ephemeral about her. As if she could shatter with a careless touch. No, it’s Tan… Taṇhā… that troubles me. Not because I fear her, but…

No, it was simply still difficult to believe that she would be sharing her husband with an actual, real Goddess! She glanced over at her fellow Princess, Eleanor, who was manfully struggling to learn light element, as she needed a potent attack boost to balance her great defence and recovery, with her pretty face frowning, her blue eyes looking puzzled and frustrated, burns all over her hands and face starting to close even as Yukiko watched. Eleanor looks like a Princess. She’s outwardly elegant, and very pretty, even if she’s a bit of a mess emotionally. But me… I’m plain. No… no, I can’t think that anymore. Akio said I’m striking now, and… no more self-pity…

Taking a deep breath, Yukiko steadied herself, and one of Tan’s eyes darkened to the obsidian black of Shiro, and her voice changed. “All right Tan, calm down. You can have your rant in a minute. Yuki…” Shiro addressed her. “I get it. But… honestly there’s nothing to worry about with Tan.”

“You’re perhaps only saying that because you are constantly with her.” Yukiko suggested, and Shiro chuckled.

“Maybe so, can’t argue with that. But… that’s not the only reason. Trust me. Tan’s surprisingly easy to get along with, once you get to know her. Sure, she’s got a terrible thirst…” Her face twisted into a grimace, her cracked, parched lips licked by a dry tongue, surely Tan acting. “…but now she sees a way to fill that emptiness. If I’m a Princess of the Hungry Ghosts, desperately seeking love, then Tan’s my mirror, a Thirsty Ghost, always seeking the same thing. And… friendship, sisterhood, it’s nice too, yeah? Hell, even having some decent male friends isn’t a bad thing, Yuki. Just like Aki has female friends who aren’t his lovers, at least not yet. Of course, I don’t need to tell you…”

“Let me stop you there.” Yukiko insisted. “I don’t need any warnings. I’m happy you are my friend, and you’ve been good to Tsukiko, but I’m as committed as you are!”

“I know, and I wasn’t going to warn you not to cheat, Yuki. If you were in any danger of that, then Eri would have sniffed you out and done everything to stop Aki accepting you, even if she had to weep, wail, beg or even be hated. She’s… intense, sometimes, and special in her own way. No, I was going to say that Aki’s quite the jealous guy, as hypocritical as that is, so don’t get too close to other guys, even platonically. Friends is fine, though.”

Yukiko had to giggle at that, feeling her tense mood lighten. “That’s true. I mean… how many here are aiming for him, yet he has the nerve to worry when we talk to other guys. Shouldn’t he have confidence now?”

“He certainly does.” Shiro was the one laughing now. “Honestly, he’s not worried, just jealous. Trust me, Shirohime, I’m a princess that understands guys well. And Aki most of all. It’s a good thing. If he’s no longer jealous, it means he’s bored of us, or complacent. But we got off topic. My point is… don’t worry about Tan. She’ll fit in smoothly. Yes, I daresay she’ll be needy and cling to him like any girl and her first serious boyfriend, but…”

“Are you quite done embarrassing me, princess?” Tan cut off her voice, reasserting control. “I can see I am far too lax with you recently. Get back to your buffing, as you call it, and I shall do my own work, and speak for myself.” She found herself glancing over at Akio’s group again, before tearing her crimson eyes away and looking earnestly at Yukiko.

“Ignore her words. I too am… troubled. Though perhaps for different reasons. But… we are both new here, her too…” She also glanced over at the struggling Eleanor. “…so we should find common cause. I do have the princess, yes…” Tan conceded. “…yet in many ways, that is more embarrassing and troublesome than a help. Regardless…”

She shook her head, long flaming crimson locks dancing. “…this is not what I am complaining about. This… this vexes me!” She pouted like she was a younger girl, the dichotomy between the raw aura of power, which was likely significantly suppressed, which she radiated, her age and wisdom, and her almost innocent, shy demeanour here shockingly cute.

Akio, he’s… definitely fortunate. And… Yukiko sneaked a peak at the Regalia. I want to believe he’s lucky to have me as well…

“Yes, nothing here makes adequate sense to me. I can certainly accept that his Eye is special, the Seeds of the Fruit of the World Tree a priceless treasure, I would certainly expect some benefits, but…” Tan bit her parched lip, clearly frustrated. “…this seems excessive.”

“I do not see why?” Asha asked, puzzled. “Yes, it is not common for Fae to transcend their being, and become aspected to new elements, but it does happen. Princess Estalian is even famous for doing it twice. And humans adapt easier, they have few limits, in exchange for often lacking native affinities.”

“Of course.” Tan sighed. “I am not questioning that. After all, is not Cultivation a way to adapt to the various energies of the world around us? But the scale… and the… complexities.” Her eyes flickered with a deep ruby light, and she sniffed, licking her lips again. “…those Eyes. Far inferior to the ones I crave, but… not terrible. No, not terrible indeed.”

“It does seem strange, thinking about it.” Yukiko realised. “If it was so easy to create and share Skills, wouldn’t everyone in your realm have such, Taṇhā…”

“You can cease the formalities. I have grown used to being called Tan.” She let out a sigh, as her lips quirked into another smile, Shiro likely amused. “Yes… obviously these Skills, Chirurgery and Ether Healing, are not unique. I have certainly heard of talented workers of healing feats, and those who can correct flaws in malformed subtle bodies exist, and even those who can enhance them. But… this scale, this speed?” She shook her head. “This world is truly abnormal. I noticed it with the princess here.”

Everyone was listening now, fascinated, especially Yata, whose golden eyes were shining. But it was Tamamo-no-Mae, the legendary nine tailed fox, who spoke. “And what would you know, sheltered woman that you are? Have you visited many worlds?”

“A few. I am exceptionally well read too, of course.” Tan shot back, glowering. “Are you picking a fight with me, fox? You may be strong, but I am no soft persimmon. Do not try me…” She then trailed off as Tamamo-no-Mae laughed elegantly, her nine golden tails waving, her grand bosom heaving. She’s massive. But she could dress more modestly, her clothing is all very loose and low-cut. Although… if she did, she wouldn’t match the myths, I suppose…

Honestly, Tamamo-no-Mae exuded a raw Majesty and Charm that was enough to attract both men and women. Though she was making some effort to keep in leashed, she still drew all eyes, ever since Akio had restored her. Fortunately, Yukiko had feelings for someone else, so she was able to set aside her presence, though it was still impossible not to admire her when she was being regal.

“Picking a fight?” Tamamo-no-Mae smirked, seemingly enjoying the teasing. “With a so-called Goddess? Perish the thought. Last time… well, it was far from enjoyable.” Her emerald eyes flickered, and Yukiko didn’t miss her gaze. Again? She seemed interested or curious, or perhaps surprised, to see Magatama.

“No.” Tamamo-no-Mae continued. “I think you are right.”

“Then why did you question me?” Tan shot back, frustrated, and Tamamo-no-Mae shrugged languidly.

“I simply wished to be sure. Or perhaps I am bored.” She yawned. “Though I expect to put in some effort soon. I have only lived in this world… so I cannot say whether it is strange or not, but… I do agree. His abilities exceed what I would expect from someone so… untested. Even with the aid of you so-called Gods and these Seeds.”

“If you are bored, would you like a drink?” Asha asked. “I am eager to serve you. After all… you saved me, and my Tree, at great personal cost, even if Akio has restored you as promised.”

The Kitsune thought about it, before shaking her head. “Much as I am always in the mood for revelry, the feast is only just over, and… I must find a new way in this world, I fear. But I thank you, Asha. As for what I did… as I said, it was my choice, so feel no guilt. Besides, rewards are paid to those who deserve them.” She shrugged again. “If I am to change one thing about myself, it is… from now on I shall not follow my whims, but… be fair.”

“I am sure your granddaughter would be happy to hear that.” Tan scoffed. “Yes, you would not notice the strangeness of this world, but from your words, I am painting a picture. As it happens, I am rather skilled at art and music. I have had long to practise…” She seemed proud, and Yukiko chuckled.

“I think it’s Akio you want to tell that, to get some praise. Though maybe if you are that good, maybe you should paint the wedding portraits? Keep it in the family, as it were? I know Natsumi and her family will be making the dresses and kimonos. But I’m curious. I too only understand Earth. So… what’s abnormal?”

Tan took a deep breath. “We should work as we talk. This effort is quite trying. Princess… you need to dig deep and buff.”

Shiro took over one hand and waved it in agreement, and Magatama made ready, the shimmering energies of Anesidora’s Blessings surging onto her. Her skin shimmered, turning translucent, radiant, almost like the jade crystalline look of her hair, and she squeezed shut her black eyes, attempting to integrate the power, which was so unlike what she was used to.

“I too wish to know.” Yata nodded. “I reflect wisdom, and show the brightest truths, light dispelling the darkness of ignorance. But… the world seems to have moved on while I was… sleeping.”

Yukiko felt guilt at her words, but it seemed that Yata, Magatama and even Tsurugi, with Akio, were looking slightly more solid, for want of a better expression. They felt more real. Perhaps it was the faith of Japan, and maybe even worldwide, generating them adherence. I hope so. If nothing else came from this, even if Akio turned me down… I’d be happy enough that we overturned the wrong we did the Regalia. They aren’t tools, foolish brother, nor slaves, but… those we should protect, and they protect us in turn. Bonds again…

“It is not simply the scale of your world. The population is large, yes, but planets with populations as great or greater have joined the Pantheons or even been unearthed before. Why, worlds occupied by insectoid mortals often have teeming trillions. Though they have other flaws. The multiverse is fair to all. Strengths, balanced by weakness. I am sure you can imagine.”

“Insects.” Yukiko mused. “Are they perhaps split into drones, workers, soldiers and queens? If so… they don’t really think, most of them, so… no adherence, or very little?”

“Well done.” Tan clapped her hands, even as she lent her strength to Shiro, who continued blessing Magatama, alternating and changing how she utilised her powers on the fly, listening to Tan’s internal guidance. “Yes, hive minds, controlled drones, or the feeble, they generate little adherence. And it is a great power. Of course, when one can throw away a million mindless warriors and replace them just as easily to kill a handful of the more powerful, that is its own advantage.”

She snorted, eyes flickering with flames. “Technological words too. Not vanishingly uncommon, though far rarer than spiritual ones. Adherence there is generally weak as well, as they have no faith in anything but what they can see, feel and measure. And while Material Laws matter, they are often subordinate to Astral, higher Laws.” She was now smiling in satisfaction.

“But, Mooortal Engineering is the blending ooof both ways.” Hyacinth disagreed. She had been filling up a bluesteel battery with her nature element, or wood element, as perhaps it should be called, in deference to Daiyu’s Cultivation. “It seems tooo me, it would be pathetic fooooools indeed who do not adapt.”

“You would be surprised.” Tan shrugged. “But yes, those who adapt endure, and many are the worlds with knowledge spread across the Pantheons. Though… not everyone adopts each other’s ways. I have read some books, but… even here, I have learned much about Material Laws. Of course, on my return, I intend to seek out more information. I have a world or two in mind to visit.”

“Not alone, I hope?” Asha asked, and Tan shook her head.

“Do not be foolish. I pride myself on my given word, and also…” Now her face was slightly red. “…my constancy. Besides, I wish to find that disrespectful Buddha, and let Akio make good on his word.”

“The best revenge is showing the one who broke your heart…” Shiro began, but Tan cut her off.

“He did no such thing. I was just… offended. I am Taṇhā, daughter of Mara, beautiful, charming, graceful, wise, untouched and pure of heart… he will never do better.”

“Modest too!” Shiro chimed in. “But you know I’m right. You want to see what his expression will be when he sees you on Aki’s arm, a winner in life!”

She made an indelicate noise, before nodding. “I do not disagree. But… less chatter, more effort.” She turned her gaze on Magatama. “Any success?”

Magatama shook her head. “It is hard. This is not like amplifying fire, light, wind or rain, sun or storms. No, it is… a strange power. One that feels… different, yet almost familiar, in a way.”

“Do your best and it’s good enough.” Yukiko cheered her on. “Nobody will blame you if you can’t.”

Magatama shook her head, crystalline hair catching the light from the giant moon overhead. “I shall blame me. It is a task I have been set by… my brother.” Her lips curved into a faint smile. “My first task since opening my eyes anew. This… scenery is pleasant.”

“There will be mooore sights worth seeing.” Hyacinth was sympathetic to their plight, it seemed. “Sad times have passed, are ooover. Yes, we might struggle and fight, but… nooot alone, and in the end, we shall win, sooo long as we support Akio, support each ooother.”

“I sense wisdom in your words.” Yata agreed. “I too wish to perform my role for worthy masters.” She eyed Yukiko, who tried not to flinch under her golden stare. “You carry the blood, but…”

“Don’t worry.” Yukiko promised. “I’m done being a coward.” She glanced over at Eleanor again, who was slamming her fist against the ground in frustration, her body steaming and smoking, but she wasn’t giving up, merely drawing in more indigo energies, before glancing at Tan, Shiro one with her. Yes, we Princesses of the Six Paths, as Tsukiko called us… we can’t give up. It’s hard, it’s lonely, but… less hard now, less lonely.

“Good. In valour, with benevolence, guided by wisdom.” Yata agreed. “Let me think…” She eyed Magatama thoughtfully. “Let me bathe in these energies too. I shall see what wisdom can be gleaned from them.”

“Damn, it’d be so much easier to run DPS.” Shiro sighed theatrically, but Yukiko suspected she was secretly happy to be relied upon. As Yata too was bathed in Anesidora’s Blessings, Tan continued her complaints, or rather, lectures disguised as complaints, she was beginning to realise. Though she does seem genuinely exasperated, it also seems to be a way to impart wisdom…

“Regardless of the state of a world, this one is a jumble which seems… paradoxical.” Tan grumbled. “A world of technology, of Material Law. Not unusual, but… strong belief, strong adherence remains. You humans… so unlike others I have seen. Illogical, yet capable of unravelling the secrets of the Material. Yet also you have a deep understanding of the spiritual, as well as a wealth of beings who would not be out of place in the higher reaches of the Astral.”

Tamamo-no-Mae smiled pridefully at that, tails and ears standing up tall.

“It is… the combination that confuses.” Tan continued. “One should preclude the other. Most worlds have a very sparse spiritual ecosystem until the Boundary collapses. But here…” She glanced over at Shaeula, then Hinata. “Spiritual treasures, degraded copies of genuine treasures of the Pantheons. Tales, some of which I know, I have read of, which took place on other worlds, seemingly spread on this one. Even stories of me… and… other matters.”

Tamamo-no-Mae nodded as they both glanced at Magatama, and once more Yukiko noticed. The secret is there. She was… once a Kamuy, wasn’t she? Just what… happened in the past?

“Regardless… Akio is the strangest of all. Frum humble beginnings, he has now found his own Path, and a new one at that.” Tan shook her head. “What are we doing here?”

“Is that a rhetorical question, Tan?” Shiro interjected, and she shook her head again in silence, so Yukiko took it upon herself to answer.

“We’re trying to strengthen Shiro’s Blessings, so that we can push Asha’s Tree to greater heights, getting us more ether so we can move to Rank Four a lot faster, and start the no doubt terrible task of Rank Five?”

“Exactly!” Tan pointed out huffily. “You are treating the Fourth and Fifth Heightenings as if they are trivial matters. Ordinarily it is decades before a world manages to assemble those who can touch the Fourth. As for the Fifth… many never even see it. But…” She gestured around her, arms wide. “Already, this… Seelie Court… is of the Fifth. Unusual. Though I doubt it can hope to claim this world, as it seems almost entirely detached from its Material roots. That aside… it has been only a brief moment, and already the Fourth is within his grasp, and if… when… this succeeds…” She snorted then, dryly amused. “…we shall see further wonders.” She addressed Asha then. “Your Tree is impressive, but plants such as it abound in the higher realms of the Pantheons. Yet… to know yours is not the only such Tree here. Again, I call it abnormal. There is a secret here, and I would unravel it if I could. Curiosity is a terrible thirst.”

“I agree. Wisdom is seeing through subterfuge and the fog of ignorance.” Yata supported her. “I… have forgotten much. But perhaps in time the fog will lift, should I be filled with knowledge and wisdom once more.”

“Sooometimes, knowing is a burden…” Hyacinth whispered, and on seeing Yukiko and Tamamo-no-Mae, Asha too, looking at her sympathetically, she managed a faint smile and shrugged, her pale face almost grey under the light of the moon.

“In any case…” Tan finished. “It does vex me. If it was this simple, then my Pantheon would not be so hard-pressed… but it proves my curiosity and willingness to remain here were acts of shrewd logic, not mere whim.”

“Keep telling yourself that.” Shiro teased her. “But I’m glad you did. Else I’d likely have died long before Aki gathered his courage and dared to propose to me. And Aki wouldn’t be where he is either. You’ve helped him form his Path. We all have.”

“Indeed.” Tan was well pleased at her words. “His Path is one he does not walk alone, he says. A curious one indeed. But…even if one is not first, there is honour and power in following in the footsteps of greatness. Now, enough idle chatter…” she warned, despite being the one doing most of the talking. “…concentrate. One can never have enough ether, even in the Pantheons, and I admit to further wondering just how strong your Tree can grow, Asha.”

“I too. I am proud, and… as it grows ever more used to… as I grow accustomed to the power, we feel ourselves changing, strengthening. Perhaps….” Asha touched her belly softly. “…our children shall see their own Trees rise even stronger than mine, with this experience?”

“That would be something to see.” Yukiko chuckled. “Anyway… Magatama, how is it going?”

“It is hard.” she complained, gem-like drops of sweat sliding down her face. “But… perhaps… Yata, any insights?”

Yata shone brilliantly, reflecting the energies back into Magatama, who was trying to amplify them. “They are… hmm. I taste belief within the aether. It seems… also a faint taste of something wider, distant… yet not.” She asked for another buff, and with a grimace Shiro gave it.

Now the light that reflected from Yata changed, as she seemed to act like a prism, separating out the colours. There was a wide band glowing violet, sparks rising and vanishing into the air, and Tan shook her head. “Of course. I am not versed in the myriad intricacies of manipulating Adherence, nor of creating Favours, but… Anesidora’s Favour has always struck me as… remarkable. It suits you well, princess…”

“Of course!” Shiro agreed boastfully. “Nothing but the best for me, but… now you mention it, how does it work? I get how the Berserk Blessing does, it basically stimulates the power of the target, overclocking it, but… how does Aki’s Eye or his Chirurgery get better? Boosting strength and speed make sense, but… those require new knowledge, right? So where did that knowledge come from?”

“This will be significantly less troublesome when I receive my Eye…” Tan muttered, only to realise what she had said, and she froze for a moment, her slight flush from earlier returning, now deep enough to dye even her chocolate skin. “…it will.” she repeated, flustered. “There are no other reasons, I simply need to satisfy the thirst of my curiosity!”

“In that case…” Yukiko changed the subject. “I also don’t claim to be an expert, but it seems there’s some adherence mediating the general aether? And it’s connecting somewhere else?”

“Everyone grasps matters so quickly.” Tan marvelled. “Another reason this world is so unusual.”

“The benefits of universal education.” Yukiko shrugged. “Even if we don’t know much about a subject, so long as we can reason and apply scientific principles and logic, we can hazard a reasonable guess about things.”

“Yes, though… such matters usually come with a denial of the spiritual and matters that defy such easy explanations.”

“Though perhaps we simply do not know the underlying principles.” Tamamo-no-Mae shrugged, drawing all eyes. “Or so Akio says.” She waved one hand and her tails dismissively. “In chaos lies order, and order is imperfect without chaos. Yin and Yang, I find the idea appealing. Whatever the case, what do you intend to do?”

Yukiko frowned, before her eyes brightened. “I have an idea. But first, we need to call over Arisugawa-san. She’s with the Mortal Engineers, looking at that device, the… Tengoku-seki, wasn’t it?” At Hyacinth’s nod, she continued. “We’ll put her to use, if she’s willing. Though I’ll have to step in too.”

Tan nodded. “Indeed. She is well-versed in spatial element, and also the scientific theories your world has assembled describing space and time, as incomplete and one-sided as they are. She will offer fresh insights.”

“Not just that.” Yukiko promised, remembering earlier in the day, when she had been presented in front of Japan and the world. “No, she’ll also be needed for her charisma and persuasiveness. And her TV station.” Yes. Adherence. We’ve begun to redirect Japan’s towards the Imperial Family, myself, and the Regalia… but if we make a change to them… She glanced at Yata and Magatama. …yes. It should be easier to make a change now before the belief of the nation settles and firms up. And with the right change…

Magatama shivered, feeling a sudden premonition. Seeing that, Yukiko shook her head. “Don’t worry. I’ll never betray you again, take away the sun. But… I’ll certainly make it up to you on behalf of my family by making it about more than just the sun, and… we can help Akio together.”

Magatama nodded slowly. “Yes, I would… like that. I would like that very much indeed. I feel… like there is trouble coming, a storm. I… wish… to be warm, benevolent and to shelter those who are within my sight…”

A storm, huh? Yukiko thought back to Tsukiko’s many prophecies, and about the dirty golden-yellow eyes of the monster destined to face her. Which one? But… you’re not the only one who wants to do her best, Magatama. Be it Asha, Tan, Shiro, Hyacinth or even Tamamo-no-Mae, everyone wanted to be Akio’s strength, as he was theirs. When a storm comes, we will face it together. But it certainly would be better if we had a Rank Four shelter…

***

Oshiro Sapphire Aiko, Shaeula’s Mansion, the Lands of the Fae

“Sorry about that!” Aiko called cheerfully to the group as she returned, a spring in her step and pride writ large over her features, her blue eyes which gave her part of her name shining, faint amber sparks dancing within just like her brother’s eyes. Not just his now. Sure, I’m a little sad bro won’t fork over his eyes, but I get it. I don’t need that level of precision to do what I need to do, and for now… the Seeds aren’t a resource we can waste…

“My bro needed me for a while. But…” She winked at the group, which was comprised of the cute twins Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan, who made Aiko feel she was an older sister, which was a novel experience for her, as well as Haru-chan, who felt like she was an older sister to her. In addition there was Hinata, who was her sister in truth now, and Haanōbō, who… evoked complicated feelings in her. Well, in any case, it’s a veritable sister-fest. My bro would love it! Eri loves it too. She thinks she’s getting her own back on me…

“I’m all good to go, this time I’ll crack it for sure!” Pouring more aether into her new Eyes, the glow intensified, and she could see the ruby light of earth element within the battery, as well as the smaller glow of mixed red and yellow in another smaller bluesteel cylinder, forming a golden-hued orange type glow, quite different to water element.

“It seems that Akio-sama has succeeded.” “Yes, it seems he has made a breakthrough.” The twins spoke together, and Aiko, in her exuberance, grabbed them both in a hug, ruffling their hair playfully, careful not to knock the caps they were so proud of off their heads.

“Yep, that’s my bro. Though…” She frowned at the memory. “…that Christina woman sure is crazy. She let my bro do all sorts of terrible things to her…”

“Nothing inappropriate, I’m sure.” Hinata giggled, and Aiko remembered she had travelled to South Africa with her. “Akio doesn’t much care for her, and despite her good looks, he knows she’s a problematic woman. If she wants to be considered, she very much has to change. But even without that… he’ll use her. After all, how can she atone if she doesn’t give it her all?”

“Yeah well, I think not everything can be fixed. Tears don’t wash out blood, as my dad used to say. But… honestly, I’m a teeny bit grateful, since thanks to her we have a new source of eyes.” She reflexively touched her face, shivering a little. “Honestly though, no fun having an eyeball or two scooped out and replaced. But… pain is momentary, the new me is forever!”

“I can imagine.” Haru-chan commiserated, and Aiko knew she had read her mind and her memories, and the pain. I guess compared to what Haru-chan endured, this is nothing. Honestly, to me, it’s nothing too. Wow, have I finally become like my big bro, capable of enduring great pain for some juicy stats and Skills? Wait, I’m already like my bro! My poor burned hand…

“Yes, he’s a bit of a hypocrite…” Haru-chan laughed, reading that too, which made Aiko flush, embarrassed. “…but it’s a reassuring kind. One that tells us we don’t have to suffer, that he’ll take it on for us. Though… sometimes he lets us suffer for our own good. I remember, facing him…” Haru-chan bit her lip, and the mask of jovial humour she always wore cracked, and Aiko could see the sadness underneath still, though she also saw a resilience, a willingness to endure, and even faint humour there, as Haru managed to crack a joke. “…well, I’m already dead, can’t get worse for me, can it? Although… thinking about it, this is the ultimate black company we work for! Akio even transplants organs into us so we can work harder, and even death doesn’t stop us from being overworked and forced to do endless overtime! We need a labour union!”

As the twins laughed at that, but amused and slightly scandalised by the shrill tone of their chuckles, Haru-chan winked. “What do you think, Hinata-chan? Being as you’re a businesswoman.”

“I think I’m jealous. I would love some better eyes too.” She peered at Aiko, face close, and Aiko felt herself flushing, a little embarrassed. Wow, uh… back up a little?

With a sly smile, Hinata nodded, satisfied. “I thought so. Your eyes are the exact shade of blue as before. If Christina’s eyes are the base, hers are a pretty blue too, but yours are deeper, definitely sapphires. Either they adapt to you, or…”

“You’re right. Wow, embarrassing.” Aiko sighed. “Yeah, my bro tuned the colour. Not sure how, but I imagine with Ether Healing and Chirurgery its possible. Though damn, my Material body is going to be a mess. Lucky we’ve learned to lodge in private to prevent panic now. Anyway…” She flourished her old eyes. “…here’s the proof. I’m thinking of having them made into jewellery. It’d be a talking point, right?” She winked, and Haru-chan shook her head.

“Uh, sure, Aiko-chan. Just… put them away. Anyway, do you want to link with us again?”

“Nope. Keep helping Hinata, and…” She pointed at princess Eleanor, who looked worse for wear and sorry for herself, and also rather cool in her green and copper armour. Damn, another Princess big sister for me. Way to go, bro! Mom is likely on cloud nine. No, cloud ninety-nine! “…can we give her a hand? I know we’re more of a priority, but… I feel sorry for her.”

“I’ll call her over.” Haru-chan promised, drifting off, and Aiko was amused to note that in the Boundary, she barely ever walked like a normal human, but was truly a ghost…

“Right then… time to get cracking. Hinata, how’s your progress?” Aiko asked as she inspected the barrel, noticing subtleties she could never see unaided. Yes, it paled in comparison to her bro, or even what Shaeula could see, but… if I Rank up my new Eyes a few times, I’ll likely get closer to what Shaeula can do…

“It’s not easy, but if Hikawa Ren-san can do it, there’s no way I can’t!” Hinata was as enthusiastic as ever, and Aiko really gelled with her, being as they were both the brash, straight-talking types. I don’t even feel guilty anymore. Not… not really. Eri’s happy, my bro’s happy, Shaeula’s happy… everyone’s happy. And now, to keep our happiness, we have to work harder than ever!

“Yep, that’s the spirit!” Aiko agreed as she began to pull in the ruby energies. Before, it was by instinct and feel, now, she could clearly delineate the flow. “Though when it comes to future Eyes, you probably need a pair. You two definitely do…” she told the twins, who nodded. Haru-chan returned with princess Eleanor, her burned face healing, one of her eyes smoking, which made Aiko wince internally in sympathy, and she paused, suddenly feeling a little bad.

“There’s no need.” Haru-chan tutted. “I know what you’re worried about. I’m sure it wouldn’t bother me. But… I can just see through your eyes. There are other priorities. Perhaps Princess Eleanor here would adapt well…”

“Adapt to what?” she asked, before remembering her manners, grimacing, clearly embarrassed. “Oh, do forgive me. Sorry, I am grateful for the assistance. I’m struggling a little. Us Windsors aren’t renowned for our scholarly pursuits.”

“Oh, just some new eyes.” Aiko grinned, as she felt the flow enter her root Chakra. Immediately it began to flow towards the flame element of her solar plexus, but now she could trace the flows inside by more than just intuition and feeling. That didn’t mean it was easy, perish the thought, and her body still burned, her elements unbalanced, but it was definitely easier, and her Ether Healing could keep up.

“Anyway…” Aiko continued. “…light element? Well, it’s all… photons, isn’t it? On the Material side anyway, and on the spiritual, it’s… sort of holy, almost? No, that’s not quite right. It’s… positive, whereas darkness is negative. So… just focus on those. Imagine a laser, yeah? You know what a laser is, don’t you?”

The Princess rubbed at her forehead, a wry smile on her face. “That’s a little rude. I’m not smart, but I’m not a total moron. I passed my GCSE. With a C grade though, I admit… I suppose my previous behaviour may not have endeared me to many or made me look competent.” Her face fell, and her expression was woebegone, tragic. “Not to Akio either. I’m such a fool. I wouldn’t be surprised if I’m bullied by the others, I’d deserve it. No, I’m British, I’ll accept it all with a stiff upper lip, and I’ll make amends…”

Wow, stepped on a landmine here, didn’t I? “There’s no need to panic, is there? My bro understands. Hell, he was whining about feeling like a bastard no end at the start, it was painful to hear. And… nobody will bully you. Uh, well, Eri might, no, no… she’s good now!” Desperately, Aiko sought to change the mood, as it seemed that for a Princess, Eleanor was surprisingly emotionally immature.

“Hey, I know…” she cried. “Once I’m done with my earth element, I’ll give you a hand. If Haru-chan links us, I can track the flow, and you can use my memories. I’ve got a real affinity for light element!” She proved her point by firing a bolt into the sky, indigo tinged with the gold of sunlight.

“I’m hurt, not helping me?” Hinata chuckled, and as the Princess winced, about to apologise again, Hinata shook her head. “I’m just joking. I understand why you’re tense, but… it’s all in the past. Though I get being nervous, considering the situation has changed. But while Hyacinth is still a bit… wary, she’ll come around quickly if you show a willingness to engage. Anyway, the strength of one is the strength of all, right?” She winked, and Eleanor relaxed, seeming embarrassed.

“Sorry. I’m definitely feeling stressed right now. I’m… not used to this, and… while it’s somewhat of a family tradition for us to make total idiots of ourselves, my brother Henry is a prime example… I don’t enjoy feeling so foolish.”

“All right, there’s no need for that.” Aiko interrupted. “Eleanor-chan… if that sounds silly I can change it?” As she shook her head, Aiko continued. “…just be yourself. If my bro accepted you, he’ll do right by you, so relax. Besides… he’s started work on fixing up your friend…” As she explained about Mary-Jane also receiving the new Eyes, and a plan for her to be taught Chirurgery and Ether Healing next, Eleanor relaxed somewhat. She doesn’t really seem much like a -chan, but if it helps her to relax and blend in a bit, I’ll call her that for now.

As the earth energies began to settle, guided by her internal manipulation, any mistakes fixed by Ether Healing, Aiko suddenly pumped her fist, surprising Eleanor, who was listening to her story. Seeing that, Aiko shrugged, apologetic.

“Sorry, but… I just succeeded.” As if to prove her point, a ruby glow formed around her closed fist, and the packed earth of the ground below exploded upwards into a series of rocky bolts, shot high into the sky. “See? No problem!”

“You make it look so easy.” Eleanor sighed. “All I can do is brute force it. Grandmother always said I was too stubborn for my own good. I think she’s right…”

“Hardly, Eleanor-chan.” Aiko disagreed. “Maybe you’re a bit slow, but you get there in the end, don’t you? After all, here you are. It’s the tortoise and the hare, I’m sure you know that one.”

“I do, but I’m surprised you… oh, your mother is British, isn’t she? I suppose it makes sense. So I’m the tortoise, am I?” She rapped her knuckles on her metallic armour, which rang softly. “How apt.”

“Yeah, but the tortoise wins in the end.” Aiko repeated. “Anyway… sorry Haanōbō, I’m going to help Eleanor-chan first. It’ll give me a bit more practise controlling my new Eyes, anyway. But when Hinata’s produced enough, I’m feeling confident!”

As Haanōbō dipped her head, sighing, her white wings drooping in frustration, Aiko vowed to succeed. Honestly, I think it’d be awesome to stand alongside my bro and become the Autumn West. It would mean I have a genuine role in the new world he’s building. Not just as his adorable, loveable sister!

“All right, Eleanor-chan. Get your barrel, and we’ll have a go again. This time I’ll guide you!”

When Eleanor lugged over the blue metal battery, displaying an impressive strength, Aiko narrowed her eyes. Yeah, ordinary light element, not a mutated one like mine. Oh well, maybe in the future. For now…

“Let’s see how you do it, Eleanor-chan.” she suggested, and Eleanor nodded, before pulling in a generous amount of light element. Immediately, she grimaced, and Aiko froze. Yeah, that’s about as stupid as me sticking my hand in the fire. No, stupider, as at least I knew why I was doing that, to increase my understanding and focus my mind and will. Eleanor’s just hoping for the best. It reminds me of how Grulgor said he did it…

Haru-chan established a link between he two of them, and rolled her eyes at Aiko, who had the grace to blush a little. Sorry, don’t let her know I was comparing her to Grulgor. It’s not like he’s a bad guy, but… ‘Me Grulgor no need brains, me win with guts and brawn’ isn’t a flattering comparison.

Don’t worry, Aiko-chan, your secret is safe with me. Anyway, you’re right. She’s a mess… there was a pause, and then Aiko felt Haru-chan was communicating with them both. That’s… not a good way to go about it, Princess Eleanor.

“Don’t call me Princess.” She spoke out loud, not used to Telepathy yet. “I don’t like it, not when… we’re comrades.”

“As you wish.” Haru-chan agreed politely, and Aiko was struck at her professional charm and demeanour. If I’m a working woman like Haru-chan when I grow up, I think my parents would be happy… and it wouldn’t be so bad…

Haru-chan winked, and Aiko realised she could hear those thoughts too. I never learn, do I? Anyway…

“You’re not absorbing it properly at all. It’s not like earth element.” Aiko shook her head. “Haru-chan, share the images, okay?” Her Eyes glowed, and she poked at Eleanor’s lower body. “Eleanor-chan, you pulled in earth element and beat yourself up until it held, I get that. But… earth element is basically the first one… and while water drags it away and consumes it, water is here…”

She tapped her sacral Chakra over her armour. “…it’s essentially still in the right area. But light element has to go here…” She prodded Eleanor’s forehead. “…no matter how much you force it, I don’t think it’ll succeed, Eleanor-chan. By the time you’ve forced whatever light element you have left to your third eye Chakra, most of it’s already improperly broken down, wrecking your network. If you weren’t you, you’d probably be crippled, dead, or owe my bro a great deal of money for Ether Healing.” She paused, winking. “Though now, he’d do it for free, since you’re together.”

As Eleanor flushed, embarrassed, she mumbled disconsolately. “Then how can I do it? I need more firepower, I can fill in and play defence like Sarah used to, but without Donovan…” Her face twisted as she remembered him. “…we suffer from a great lack of killing power.”

“That’s what we’re here for, Eleanor-chan!” Aiko promised. “And now I have these Eyes… easy…”

The next few hours were a struggle, Aiko and Haru-chan sharing images of success, showing her what she did wrong. Eleanor had removed her armour, and was in a light shift dress, making it easier for Aiko to trace the route the light element was taken, and soon, Eleanor was able to pull the light element to the correct Chakra. Of course, that was the easy part, but…

“Damn, even Ether Healing can’t compete with you. I bet not even my bro can. Though Daiyu’s got the same sort of Divine Favour. Maybe you should collaborate?”

“That would be… pleasant.” Eleanor managed, blood leaking from her mouth, crimson, silver and shining with vivid indigo energies. One of her eyes had disintegrated, and Aiko resisted the urge to quip that she was already prepared for a transplant. “I don’t know her well. There are a few I don’t, actually. That will… have to change.”

“I’ll ask Eri to mediate. Don’t worry, she’s been expecting this since my bro first met you.” Aiko promised, wincing. “Shit…” It wasn’t often she swore, but this was heartfelt. “You’re crazy, you know? That amount of light element going haywire, it’s like you’re lasering your own insides!”

“Maybe so, but… I’m not a thinker, I learn by doing. And compared to… being cut apart by Goblins, it hardly hurts at all.” Eleanor managed a tremulous smile. “I think I’m… getting it, you… know?”

“I hate that you’re right.” Aiko observed. “Your third eye Chakra has blown a number of times, but each time it regenerates it seems slightly more adapted. You’re close, Eleanor-chan.”

“Good, I’m… ack…” She coughed blood, and her regenerating eye, which was not a sight for sore eyes, but a sight to make one’s own eyes hurt in sympathy, popped. The torture rolled on another twenty minutes, until Eleanor had collapsed, covered in her own sweat and blood.

Sympathetically, Haru-chan, once more proving the wisdom of a professional, had draped her in a cloak one of the servants had brought to spare her blushes at looking so dishevelled, but Eleanor didn’t care. Instead, she was smiling brilliantly, and Aiko blinked at how captivating it was, as Eleanor had forgotten her own worries in the joy of triumph.

“I did it…” Eleanor breathed out, her tone rather raw as her throat was still healing from burns both internal and external.

“Yes, you did.” Aiko nodded. “Good job!”

“I couldn’t have done it… without you two. So thank you!”

“There’s no need to thank me.” Aiko insisted. “Not anymore. We’re a family. And Haru-chan’s like our big sister, although… hey, which of you is older?”

They both froze and Aiko giggled. “I’m just joking. I’m a girl too, aren’t I? Just relaxing the mood. Anyway… next, take a break then you might as well see if you can master using light element as a laser. It’s a really good attack. As for me… Hinata, you ready yet?”

“Soon!” Hinata promised. “It’s not easy, but… it’s a Favour made especially for me, by Akio, there’s no way I can’t master it, especially with Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan helping stabilise me.”

“Great. Then it looks like my battle soon starts up again.” Aiko pumped herself up. This is only day one, and already we’re all making progress. If this keeps up… by the end of the Pilgrimage, we’ll be true powerhouses, ready to take on all comers, and…

She cast her eyes out over the various groups of beings, both human and otherwise, training. With a wry smile, she shook her head. And my bro might have a harem that will make the Ōoku, the Woman’s Palace in the Tokugawa Shogunate, look threadbare. There’s a lot of hungry gazes going towards him. Poor bastard. No, should I sympathise? Nah…  I can offer a shoulder for him to cry on when he inevitably gets stabbed, but… it’d take a sharp and magical knife to do that now. Maybe Tsurugi…

Chuckling at that thought, Aiko slapped her cheeks, hyping herself up. “All right, Hinata! Get cracking. I’m eager to give this a go while I’m still feeling motivated!”

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