On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

Now that the concert had ended… in style. That last performance from… Pleiades, I guess… was spectacular… the crowd was starting to pay more attention to our group. My sis, still glowing from her enjoyment of the performance, her worries forgotten, at least temporarily, and Kana, equally hyped up, though her interest perhaps leaning a different way, both tugged on my arms, before my sis let go suddenly.

“Wow, oh, sorry Kana. I shouldn’t be cutting in on your date time.”

“It’s fine. Idol concerts aren’t meant to be enjoyed alone. It’s a lot more fun in a group, Aiko-chan.” Kana insisted airily. “Though my time is winding down faster than I’d like. Still…” She glanced around at the large group of our friends and comrades who had been given the special VIP tickets to the performance, due to our links with Red and White. “…I’d feel rotten ditching everyone, even for the last half an hour or so.”

Kana’s always considerate of the thoughts of those around her. Really, I’ve always believed she had the charm and drive to be successful in whatever she wanted to do, even if she didn’t believe it herself. It was one of the reasons I was reluctant to act on her obvious feelings for me. Damn, I can be a moron sometimes. Now I know I’m just a lucky bastard, but I’ll be a bastard that deserves her!

“In that case…” I texted Motoko, who was my next Material date, advising her of where I’d be heading. “…why not hang out for a while? My treat.”

“There’s no way you’ll get this many spaces somewhere on Christmas Eve.” Kana glanced at the large group dubiously. “Even with Hinata’s help.”

“You’d be surprised.” I disagreed. “I know that it’s a busy night, but… money, and more importantly, prestige talks.” I grinned. “Honestly, I had a few plans in mind anyway, a tweak won’t hurt.” I fired off a text, and quickly got back agreement, saying it was possible. Clapping my hands, I addressed the group.

“I hope everyone had a great time. They sure were something, weren’t they?” My phone interrupted me, and it was Suzu, saying that she and the other idols would meet up with the group once they’d got changed and done a brief bit of publicity with the eager crowd. They need to hurry up, even with event security… which looks like Fujiwara Security Services, definitely not run-of-the-mill concert staffers… the crowd is rather restless. Not that I don’t get it, the concert was amazing, especially for a local guerilla-style performance.

I explained the plan, and Kana clapped her hands loudly. “All right!” she insisted. “Looks like Akio’s going to keep this party going. He’ll have to duck out soon, since he’s on a dating gauntlet, but that’s his loss, right?”

“No kidding!” Mio-san complained. “All of us eligible, single girls are… ouch, don’t bully me Kana-chan! And stop laughing at me, Asami-chan! You’ve both become cruel now you’ve found love!” Kana had flicked a tiny pebble, almost invisible to the eye, at Mio-san’s head, created with earth element, and while it had less force than a finger flick, Mio-san acted as if she’d been battered, clearly angling for sympathy.

“Oh shit, I totally get it…” Hotaru-chan, the fiery and foul-mouthed daughter of Abe-san, the Prime Minister, stepped out of the group, a wicked smile on her face. She was dressed in a red denim minidress, with black tights covering her exposed legs. It was quite a cute yet feisty look and suited her well. Still, I can’t help but remember what Haru said about her…

“It’s a fucking bad day to be single. Especially here. But that’s why we’re all friends in misery, isn’t that fucking right, girls?” She smirked at me then, her expression wicked. “I’m sad, because Shiori-chan’s spending Christmas with her family, making the most of the break in the shitty Pilgrimage. And my delightful big jugs and her cute and beautiful sisters have fucked off too. I’m lonely and bored. My shitty dad’s barely going to get a bite of chicken tomorrow, all the work he’s fucking got going on. That’s your fault, right, Akio-kun? So you pissing well owe me!”

“I wouldn’t say that’s my fault, Hotaru-chan…” I defended myself. “But sure, since you’re one of the trainees, I see you as one of my own, so… yeah, I’ll make sure you all have fun until Christmas, and make some memories.”

“Fuuuuuuck…” she whistled, dragging out the word, her short hair, which I noticed was a little longer than she usually had it, and her slightly androgynous face giving her a rather charming look at odds with her forthright and crude personality. “I’m sure I told you to skip the -chan. Let’s be besties! I don’t give a shit about honorifics, especially not with you.” Her smile was teasing, and I didn’t need Foresight to feel a little bit worried.

“Oh really?” Eri stepped up beside her, smiling, but it didn’t touch her black eyes. “And why not? I don’t think you two are close, are you? It’s no different to the relationship between Sana-san and Akio, daughters of a coworker.”

“Hey, like… totes don’t drag me into this.” Sana-san muttered, rolling her eyes. “I think Akio-kun’s great, but I know my place. I’m just, like, thrilled I get to be somebody nowadays. I won’t disgrace the uniform, yeah?”

“That’s right.” Kana agreed, while Shaeula was snickering nastily, enjoying the chaos, and my sis had a… complicated… expression on her face. “But it’s not like I don’t get it.” Kana’s smile was now a match for Shaeula’s in teasing wickedness. “After all, Akio’s the most desirable man alive. But sadly… for the next hour, he’s mine.” She tightened her grip on my arm, making me feel happy indeed. “Though I don’t mind sharing a little…” She winked at my sis, pink ears giving away her embarrassment at Kana’s teasing.

“But you have to ask yourself…” Kana was suddenly stern, exchanging a meaningful glance with Eri. “…are you worth it? Confident? What do you bring to the table? If you’ve just got a bit of a crush or want to be pampered and taken care of… think again.” It wasn’t just our group that was listening now, the closest of the ordinary Red and White fans could hear, and I saw several recording the scene on their phones. Sensing that, Kana stood taller, her expression cold yet proud. She’s not letting go of my arm though.

“I used to think like that. But I was a foolish girl. Now I’ve the mentality of a woman. The road ahead is hard, sometimes bloody…” She swallowed, perhaps thinking of her battles to protect her school and shrine from the terrorists. Eri nodded sympathetically, and that gave Kana more resolve. “…and if you think you can just be cute, pamper him and receive affection… you’re an idiot. Ask yourself what you are truly worth. I’m the least of the walls you’d have to overcome to be worthy of his time. There are higher peaks, as Daiyu would say. I mean, she’s one herself. A beautiful, taciturn Cultivator who believes she’s bound to be his destined companion for her entire life. And then there’s those you can’t even imagine are real… Princesses, Valkyries, Goddesses…” Shaeula was nodding proudly now too, and I noticed Yae looking sick, but when she spotted my concerned gaze, she smoothed her expression into a smile, and tried to radiate cheerful confidence, like when we were back in Nishimorioka.

“…that being said…” Kana finished, softening her tone. “…don’t get me wrong, we’re all friends and life-or-death companions here, often literally. Just… be realistic, okay?”

“Oh, I am!” Mio-san was the first to cry out. “Kana-chan, you’re so cold! That’s it! I want to drink the night away, forget all my sorrows!”

“No, you’re underage.” Eri insisted. “It’s different in a small family gathering or date, but… no causing trouble!”

As everyone laughed at Mio-san’s antics, Kana winked at me, and I kissed her cheek as a reward, drawing playful boos from some of the girls, and exclamations from the watching crowd. She then turned to my sister, winking at her too. “You’re a wall as well, Aiko-chan. After all, despite everything, you two are as close, or even closer… than ever. Think about it… do you really have to stress out over your thoughts, beat yourself up over your worries? After all that’s happened today, has anyone looked down on you?”

“You’ve mocked me, Kana-chan!” my sis pouted. Another text came to my phone and I discretely checked it, discovering our destination would be ready shortly.

“Besides, forgetting your own worries, are you? I remember you moping and pouting because my bro wouldn’t ask you out. If you want it, you’ve got to ask, my bro’s an idiot when it comes to girls, even now!” Her cheeks puffed out, and her blue eyes were glowering defensively at us.

“Touché! You’ve got me there, my dear sister-in-law!” Kana couldn’t resist further teasing. I mentioned we should go, and the three of us led the large group out down the famous steps of Kanda-Myōjin, towards Akiba proper. Flashes of phone cameras indicated a lot of new pictures would be on the internet tonight, but that wouldn’t bother anyone. A lot of those here would just be proud and show that off…

“But it was a little different for me. You’ll always be his beloved sister. And if you seriously thought that would change, then I’ll have to help Eri beat some sense into you. Me, I was a hanger-on, cute, charming, but… ultimately just like a lot of them.” She lowered her voice so as not to be insulting as she jerked her head at the gang following us. “I’m not Eri or Shiro, with a history. Shaeula or Asha, Daiyu, Eleanor, Yukiko… not even Hinata or Motoko… I’m just plain old Izumi Kana. Luckily… that was enough. So I sympathise, and I’m not saying that one or two of them might not find love with Akio in the end, like I did, but… I know my blooming romance is a miracle. But you… Akio’s such a damn siscon, he could never leave you alone. But you said it yourself… you’ve got to ask. He’s not Haru-chan, he can’t read minds, at least not yours, dear sister-in-law. You made an effort, I suppose, and… that photograph was adorable in a hellishly cringy way. Your nerves must have been screaming at you during that one.”

My sis listened to Kana’s tirade in slightly sullen but reflective silence, and as she opened her mouth, Kana laughed scornfully. “Those eyes are good eyes. Scared eyes, but… good ones. It’s been a shock to my system, you know? Shaeula doesn’t count, but… seeing you and Eri, two girls as pretty as me… crazy. I never thought I’d have so many rivals. But that’s it. I don’t look at anything the way I used to. I mean, I’m a real-life magical girl, I work with Trolls and Giants building factories that’ll be churning out multi-trillion yen profit margins… I’ve killed…” She paused, expression suddenly blank, and at that, I was pleased to see my sis losing her slightly troubled expression, reaching out for Kana’s free hand with her own, face sympathetic.

“…so no matter what happens, I won’t judge. Even if I think something’s strange, weird, or even disgusting… I owe it to myself, and to my friends… no, family, that’s what we are…” she insisted. “…to listen, to think, and to support. That’s all there is to it. And while I won’t lie and say everyone feels the same way, those who are worth it will at least give the benefit of the doubt and the time to understand any problem we come across.”

“Thanks Kana-chan. No… Kana.” My sis whispered at last. “Sorry. I’m not trying to be a buzzkill. The concert was awesome and… I had a great time with my bro, with Shaeula and Eri… but…” She paused. “I don’t want you to get the wrong idea. The way you’re talking, it’s as if you think bro and I… that I want…”

“You want him to love you as much as he loves me, loves Eri and the others, don’t you?” Kana cut her off. “I’m not judging you on what form you want that to take. All I know is… he does, and he will. So just relax. Get your head right. And… Aiko…” Kana dropped the honorific too. “…please don’t lie to yourself. I did, and it was just painful. If Akio had truly rejected me, I’d have been devastated, but… life goes on. But better that than stringing myself along and not standing up for what I wanted. Now…” She laughed loudly, calling to the group, as we arrived at the building where I’d had my rooftop date with my sis earlier. It had rather short opening hours, and would usually be shut by now, even today, hence why it was perfect for us. A little bit of money and it’s a private space, just for our group…

“…I’m resolved to seek my happiness, Akio’s, and those close to me. And whatever gets in our way, even common sense, morality, the world… I’ll crush it. I’ve gone too far, even…” She shook her head sadly. “…killed for it. To stop now puts all that to ruin, makes a mockery of my value, my life!”

There was a long silence, before my sis nodded. “Yeah, I get it. You’re not the only one to beat me over the head with it, Kana. But… thanks.” Her words were clearly heartfelt. “I’m like my bro…” She gave me a wry glance as she spoke. Seeing that, with a smirk, I leapt through space with them both to the roof, purple sparks scattering, leaving the others to follow us up via more conventional means, the doors opened by some staff Hinata had arranged previously.

The rooftop café now had outdoor portable heaters to ward off the crisp winter chill, and more tables and benches were laid out, awaiting us. I expected that Shiro, Hayato-kun and the gang would be here later, but there was a surprising amount of space so it should be fine, offering amazing views out over Akiba and Tokyo as a whole. It’s rather romantic up here too. Though it might be less so with a crowd of girls all packed in…

“…way to give me a heart-attack!” my sis pouted. “Anyway, Kana, I’m like my bro, in that lessons take a lot of beating into my head. I do worry. About a lot of things. I used to let the fact I wasn’t as bright as Eri or my bro distract me, prevent me thinking about stuff, but… that doesn’t work anymore. I think you have a teeny bit of a wrong idea about what I want, but it’s true… I got my bro back, Eri’s shining… I don’t ever want this happiness to go away. So… I’ll be more honest.”

“It’s a start.” Kana laughed. Moments later the doors opened, and Yae and the others started pouring in. “Well then, since it’s still my date, and you’ve had your fun, Aiko… I’ll be monopolising Akio for the last minutes. Go play with your friends, and apologise to them for being so depressed, okay?”

“Wow, I’m detecting major sister-in-law energy from you now, Kana!” my sis joked, and it didn’t seem forced. “Sure. Just… uh, that picture…”

“Our little secret.” Kana promised slyly. “Especially when I need a favour in the future…”

As my sis groaned, I laughed cheerfully, and when everyone was seated, conversations buzzing, many appreciating the views, the staff came in, taking requests, and soon the tables were filled with brightly coloured mocktails, as well as cakes, sweets and other treats… Giving her one last look, finally relieved that the stresses of the day had resolved themselves in her heart, while still deciding to keep an eye on her so that her emotions wouldn’t explode again, I turned all my attention to Kana, and while the rooftop was packed, with her by my side at a small table in the corner, it was like there were only two of us in this world…

***

“I apologise for arriving early.” Motoko had appeared, and was looking apologetically at Kana, who merely waved one hand dismissively, a mostly empty glass of mocktail in her other hand.

“Oh, it’s fine. I’ve had my fun. Besides, the others can’t contain themselves much longer.” Kana glanced over fondly at the crowd occupying the rooftop café. “When Red and White and the others arrive, I might as well go mingle. It’s… been fun.” Kana smiled at me, and I nodded.

“Yeah. Chaotic, but entertaining. I’m glad we got the chance to do this after all.”

“Me too. Though I’m happier your sister seems to have resolved herself to stop being an idiot.” She then glanced at Motoko. “That’s a lovely outfit. So unusual for you, but then, that makes it fresh.”

As Motoko nodded happily, waiting for my reaction, I inspected her, and couldn’t help but agree. “Yeah, it’s given you a completely different air. You look like some sort of fancy secretary, or… no, maybe a military officer, who has made the effort to dress up for the festive season.” Motoko was wearing a white shirt, paired with a wine-coloured skirt suit, the jacket cut for fashion rather than professionalism, the skirt tight and short. Beneath that she wore a pair of stockings with cute Christmas designs, and her hair was bundled up into two buns similar to how Hinata wore it sometimes. She had light makeup on too, very unusual for her, a dusting of powder making her face sparkle, and her lips were a wine colour, matching the suit. This was topped off by, instead of a tie, a cute ribbon at her neck.

“Is it not too much?” Motoko fretted adorably. “Natsumi helped me pick it out. The stockings seem… rather out of place…”

“No, I think they’re just perfect.” Kana giggled. “That and the ribbon take your appearance from stern to cute.”

“I see.” Motoko breathed a sigh of relief. “You look very fetching yourself, Kana. It is not a look I can… carry off.” She glanced down at her own chest mournfully, only for Kana to reassure her.

“Don’t get down on yourself. Akio doesn’t discriminate. Besides, your slender, toned bodyline is an asset, isn’t that right, Akio?”

I nodded, taking Motoko’s hand reassuringly. “That’s right. I cherish all of your differences. And you’re both perfect just the way you are.”

“You hear that? So… best get going. There are only a few minutes left, and I’m tired of Hotaru-chan and Yae-chan staring over here like starving dogs.”

Indeed, Yae was barely listening to Rika-san’s banter, instead looking over at Kana and I wistfully, while Hotaru-chan had constantly been trying to appeal to me without directly bothering us. I have to admit though, the effort it took to have her denim dress ride up, flashing me her panties, while making sure none of the other guys present got an eyeful, and not just once… is praiseworthy, I think? It’d be nice if she put her efforts towards a more worthy goal though. I’d talk to her father, but… well, let’s not spoil their Christmas. He’s having a hard enough time as it is, and… I’m not the sort of guy who’s going to blush and fall for someone just because they’re a bit cute and flirty. I’ve matured…

“He’s got that look in his eye that says he’s thinking he’s grown. Too smug.” Kana snorted, and Motoko agreed.

“Indeed. Though I do feel we can allow him some pride. His efforts today are certainly heroic.”

“Yeah, but… it’s all his own fault he’s in this mess. I’ll agree it’s ours too. It’s a sin to be as desirable as us, Motoko. Anyway… have fun!”

Motoko thanked Kana again, and I took her hand, after giving Kana a parting kiss on the lips, rather chaste, but still tender. I couldn’t help but glance at her t-shirt, remembering the feel of her chest and beating heart, and Motoko, perhaps with her competitive nature triggered, pulled my arm close. The feeling was hardly as bountiful as when Kana did it, but Motoko indeed had her own charms.

“Oh, you’re off then, bro?” my sis called out. “Looking great, Motoko-chan! You’re coming after stiff competition though. Kana was on fire tonight!”

“I know. I am always aware of my shortcomings, and where I need to improve.” Motoko agreed earnestly, and my sis flushed, several girls laughing at her embarrassment.

“I was only joking. No need to take me so seriously. You’re great just the way you are.” she mumbled, and after saying our goodbyes, once more fending off Hotaru-chan, who somehow managed to seem drunk, despite the lack of alcohol here, we descended, leaving the revelry behind. I couldn’t help but glance back up at the rooftop, and Motoko, seeing that, smiled warmly.

“Let them have their fun. The Pilgrimage is hard, yet rewarding, but… this is a time for friendship. And tomorrow… for family. I am a little nervous, actually. It will be such a… monumental gathering, and my brother… he is not the most personable of men.”

“I’m sure he’ll get on well with my father.” I chuckled, remembering. Indeed, it had been hard to win over Motoko’s mother Rikako-san, and her brother, Masaru-san, was still wary of me, though by now he’d had to accept Motoko’s choice. “But that’s for tomorrow. For the next few hours, I’m all yours.” I promised, kissing her cheek. “But you said you had something you wanted to do, at the start? Honestly, I’m a bit surprised you didn’t want the Boundary date, to practice your new Tsumura Style.”

“I considered it, of course. But… let Natsumi have that honour. Currently, she may be surpassing me, but… I shall overtake her once again. As my friend and my rival, I delight in her progress as if it is my own, and it inspires me to greater heights. But… Natsumi also wished me to experience a more… ordinary… date. While she herself is not worldly-wise, the Hori’s are a house with less restrictive traditions. After all, she even managed to watch some combat sports on television, albeit in secret. All I have ever seen until I met you were carefully curated documentaries and news broadcasts. Even thinking of anything else would be considered vulgar and unbecoming a Tsumura daughter.”

“You’ve had it hard.” I commiserated, and she shook her head.

“No, I do not consider it so. It has made me who I am today. And any regrets I have are meaningless compared to the present we share.” A car was waiting for us, driven by a Tsumura house retainer, and once inside, I chatted to Motoko about my day. She expressed some concern for Aiko, but felt that her mood had stabilised, and when I confirmed that, she smiled warmly.

“That is most welcome. Sadly, I was unable to understand her worries. If I could do more…”

“All you need to do is be kind. My sis is like me, a worrier and a bit of an idiot, but… she knows everyone cares about her. Tomorrow will do her good, surrounded by everyone. It might be a bit of a different Christmas to what you’re used to, I fear.”

“I dare say it will be. I am eager to see it.” Motoko assured me. We cuddled together in the privacy-screened back seat of the car, though I was careful not to wrinkle her smart yet sexy suit. Soon, we drew near a familiar building, and I opened my eyes wide in surprise.

“That’s the Ministry of Defence building I was at before…” I remarked, where I’d been brought after my run-in with Aliyah, Treyvon and the American agents. Why does Motoko want to come here?

“Yes. I am quite familiar with it. I have visited father and grandfather here a number of times.” Motoko agreed. The driver pulled up, and wished us both a good day, promising to whisk us to our next destination, which I informed him of quietly, once we were done. I took over his job, opening the door for Motoko and extending a hand to help her out, which she took with elegance, as if she was well used to such behaviour. I suppose she is…

It seemed she wasn’t used to such tight and short skirts, as she bent a little awkwardly. After all, the Hanafubuki uniform is down to the ankles, and when she wears dresses for balls and parties, they are invariably with long hems. Still, she was soon standing beside me, and with a sultry smile, she ushered me inside. Despite the hour and the date, there were still people present, several soldiers dressed smartly in JSDF uniforms saluting us, and greeting Motoko as Tsumura-ojou, the young lady of the Tsumura house.

“I always felt a little disconsolate.” Motoko remembered, her expression fond yet slightly sorrowful. “My brother is expected to continue our family involvement in the military, but I… I had no place here. I admired soldiers, brave warriors who fought to protect Japan and its people. But now… now I no longer have to lament. Though my weapons are certainly different.” she chuckled, and I agreed, nodding.

“Don’t worry, I’ll work on your bow and spear when I get a spare minute, so you and Natsumi can both carry the full set.”

“I know you will. Do not think I am rushing you.” We arrived at an office, and outside, two soldiers, a man and a woman, saluted us. I recognised them as two of the Special Forces I had performed Chirurgery on previously. On seeing them, Motoko smiled warmly.

“Is it ready?” she asked, and the man nodded.

“Yes, as requested. Your pilot awaits within.” He stepped inside to fetch them, while the woman, a burly woman with black hair shorn short, almost into a crew cut, smiled at us.

“It may be out of turn to speak, but… take good care of our ojou-sama.” She referred to Motoko very formally and respectfully. “Before… before she was merely from a family we all hold in high regard, but now…” The woman’s brown eyes, which were flinty and had likely seen many despairing sights during her service, softened with proud understanding. “…she’s one of us, enlisted or not. Those who fight and kill, at the risk of their own lives, to protect our comrades from foreign enemies… are soldiers. Are JSDF, at least in spirit. Just… don’t let her bear it alone. Be a man.”

“Always.” I put an arm around Motoko, and as the man returned, a woman in pilot helmet and flight suit behind him, he nodded at us.

“Yeah, it’s hard to take a life, even in the heat of the moment, when it’s us or them, the adrenaline’s flowing. But that’s nothing compared to living with the fact you have, you had to. We have our comrades…”

“And so do I.” Motoko agreed, snuggling into me. “None of us are alone. We all draw our swords for this land, and more importantly, for those we must protect. Japan is its people, buildings can be replaced, land retaken, but… the dead do not return. Better I shed tears than my classmates, innocent civilians, shed blood.”

“She has always had a warrior’s heart.” the female soldier praised. “Even in the military, women are seen as second-class, inferior. But…” She clenched a fist. “…we’re better with pain. I’d like to see you push out a child, you bastard.” she teased her fellow soldier. “And now… thanks to you, we can see we don’t even have to be weaker. Thank you.” She saluted, before smirking at me. “Oh, and when are you going to be in our care? I hear Tsumura-sama plans full enhanced Officer training, Special Forces and Ranger training. I’d love to field test your skills…”

“Yeah, next year…” I chuckled weakly. “Just one more thing on my agenda. Though it won’t be as you imagine.” No, we’ll be bringing over Ulfuric to review the training and implement our own as well, cross-pollinating the best of modern military strategy and tactics with those of battle using spiritual arts…

“We’ll see. Anyway, we won’t delay you on your Christmas Eve date.” The two saluted again, and soon we had followed the pilot to a waiting helicopter. It was a Eurocopter EC225 Super Puma, the pilot announced, with the VIP transport variant configuration, allowing twelve to be seated in comfort, but now… it was just us. As the side door was opened and I helped Motoko up, since she was in a skirt, inside I could see that a bottle of champagne and two glasses was set up for us, as well as a comfortable couch with a view out of the windows.

“Take a seat.” Motoko sat down, patting beside her, and I did so. She then uncorked the champagne, which looked like it was an expensive bottle from LVMH. Seeing me looking, she nodded. “Hinata indeed offered it from her private stockpile. She receives more than we can drink, though many bottles will be broached tomorrow, I have no doubt. The vintage is excellent.” Motoko poured artfully, not spiling a drop, before offering me a glass. When I took it, she clinked hers with mime. “As is the company.”

“I think so too.” I agreed, and at that moment, our pilot spoke up.

“Sorry to interrupt you two, Oshiro-sama, Tsumura-ojou. But we’re cleared for take-off. As planned by Tsumura-ojou this auspicious day, our flight plan is to traverse Tokyo Bay, taking in views of the city to your West, cross near Yokosuka, traverse Sagami Bay, then circle Mount Fuji and return via the west of Tokyo. All in all, flight time is scheduled to be around an hour and twenty minutes. Enough time for the two of you to relax. Please do enjoy the spectacular night views.”

With that, and once the two of us were strapped in, though with our stats it probably wasn’t necessary, we clinked our glasses once more and sipped at the fragrant, bubbling wine. Soon we were airborne, and as we saw the glittering lights of Tokyo, as well as on yachts floating in the Bay, I asked Motoko why she had chosen this, and her answer was a surprisingly cheeky smile.

“I am near the end. If I am not memorable, if I do not stand out, I would feel ashamed as a woman. Besides…” She rested her head against me, watching me carefully, her brown eyes kind. “Those of us towards the end agreed to help you relax. You have worked too hard. Even… even Natsumi will not tax you too heavily. Or if she does, I shall have words with her!”

No, you’re right… In the Boundary, Tsukiko and I had enjoyed a leisurely bath, the hot spring refreshing and invigorating, and she had soaked up my training in water element eagerly, while also offering me plenty of alluring fanservice. Still, all good things had to end, so now we had changed into after-bath yukatas, mine black, and Tsukiko’s white, reminding me of a pure, virgin priestess, though she wasn’t that anymore. Waiting at Tsukuyomi-jinja, we exchanged light, relaxing talk, until Natsumi appeared.

“I’m here!” she declared confidently, a brilliant smile on her face. “Did I keep you waiting? If so, consider it my gift to you!”

“I do not have a watch or phone to check with, but… I suspect you are accurate to the very second.” Tsukiko observed, and Natsumi flushed.

“Guilty as charged. I just wanted to sound good.” She came and sat down next to us, and I poured her a mug of Prince Shōtoku’s tea. “We’re all eager. But I’m glad to see you looking so refreshed. If I didn’t know better…” Her tone was teasing, but her brown eyes sparkled with curiosity.

“No, we were perfectly restrained. But a good bath soothes the spirit.” Tsukiko responded, and Natsumi, looking beautiful in white jeans and a rather daringly low-cut woolly white and blue jumper, with a tasteful colour gradient. The look was paired with long blue boots to her knees, the heels giving her a little extra height, and a white scarf finished off the ensemble, as did… is that her spear bag over one shoulder?

Seeing my gaze, she grinned, pressing her arms together, emphasising her cleavage. “You should be paying attention to me, not what I’m carrying. I know I can’t compete with Tsukiko here, but I’ve done my best to stand out in my own way!”

“I think you’ve managed that. It’s cute, but also doesn’t hamper movement. I’m guessing you want to train?”

“Yeah, but no rush.” Natsumi sipped at her tea. “And I don’t want to tire you out. You’ve done enough today. So we’ll keep it largely theoretical. Let’s just enjoy some tea with Tsukiko for now. After all, our dates are longer here.”

“If you do not mind. I would hate to steal your time.” Tsukiko demurred, and Natsumi shook her head.

“It’s fine. Feel free to stay and watch, if you want, but we might as well move to the mansion grounds for some extra time. And that’ll give you time to surprise me too. I’m sure you’ve got something planned?” she asked me with a smile.

I nodded. “Yeah. It’s easier to plan a date in the Material, honestly, but don’t worry, we’ll have some fun. Motoko… has an interesting idea as well, it seems.”

“Yes, she told me.” Natsumi chortled, narrowing her eyes in glee. “She’s put a lot of thought into something intimate yet fun, so be sure to praise her, okay? In comparison, I’m rather boring. But then, it’s in my nature.” She patted the weapon bag she had laid down beside the table. “Of course, I won’t deny I sometimes feel a bit conflicted when it comes to Motoko. I still feel like her bodyguard sometimes, but… I also feel like she’s my biggest rival and competitor.” She glanced at Tsukiko, who was listening politely, a knowing smile now on her pretty face. “I think you’ll feel the same way soon. After all, Yukiko’s… oh, still being so impolite as to call Princess Mikasa by her private name gives me chills, but… I’ll manage it… she’s your dearest friend, isn’t she? It’ll feel odd, trust me.”

Tsukiko was the one laughing now, a soft, quiet, almost contemplative chuckle. “Oh, I agree. It does feel perplexing, but… nobody knows Yukiko as I do. I have been listening to her fears and insecurities for many years. I know she wished to be loved for Yukiko, not Princess Mikasa.” At her knowing crimson gaze, Natsumi nodded.

“Yeah, don’t worry, we’ll treat her just like anyone else.” she promised.

“Therefore…” Tsukiko took a moment to sip her tea, gathering her thoughts. “…I feel light, unburdened. Of course…” her smile changed, now proud. “…that might be as I washed all my cares away in the spring. Now I know what I wish to achieve. And I want Yukiko to find such happiness too. Still… yes, I find I do not want her to monopolise Akio. I am a curious woman.”

“Nope.” Natsumi shook her head. “Just a woman. We’re all the same. Even Shaeula, deep down, wants to spend all her time with Akio. Anyway… this was good tea.” Natsumi gulped the last down. “Feel free to come along if you want.”

“I will, but… not to bother you. I simply wish to go to the Spring of Clear Reflections and gather further insights. Without Chiaki-san and Chiasa-san, or Haru-san, there are no shortcuts, but… I am confident and motivated.”

“That’s the spirit!” Natsumi cried, clasping her hand. “As am I! And don’t pout, Akio…” she teased me, before holding my hand too and hugging me, pressing her chest against me. “…I’ve plenty of affection for you too!”

“I wouldn’t doubt it.” I kissed her playfully, and she offered her tongue. When we parted, she gestured to Tsukiko, who initially demurred, as she had already kissed me plenty, but Natsumi insisted, and on our way to the Ring Gate I walked hand in hand with the pair of them, exchanging sweet kisses.

“I shall depart then. But I might return later.” Tsukiko declared when we arrived, and I sent a maid from the mansion with her to make sure she was attended to properly. Natsumi waved her off, and then, in the makeshift training grounds next to the mansion, she brought out her weapon, the spear Gurenyari, the crimson detailing vivid on the sharp and deadly weapon.

“Motoko is letting me borrow it. Why the spear, you ask? Well…” She also retrieved her treasure from the Tower of London, Bedwyr’s Protective Bracer. She pulled it over the sleeve of her woolly jumper, and it should have looked out of place, but with brown leather and crimson and golden thread, the eagle stitching seemed almost like a festive decoration. “…I see it now, you know.” She tapped the Bracer with Gurenyari’s crimson shaft. “I think before I was too unskilled… oh, don’t look at me like that, Akio…” she giggled. “…I was good, I know it, for modern times, but compared to the warriors of the past, Motoko and I were like little chicks, flapping our wings weakly in imitation of our parents. But we never gave up. And we achieved our goal. Our first goal. The Tsumura Style in truth.”

She looked so proud I couldn’t help but pat her head. She fussed at that, not wanting me to mess up her carefully styled curls, which were bouncier and had more volume than normal, clearly the product of extensive effort, but she quickly gave up and embraced me. We kissed again, and when we parted, our breaths hot and damp, she playfully swatted me with her free hand.

“Oh, you! I’m being serious for a moment. We can set a challenge for each other. We promised not to go too far, but some harmless kissing and caresses as rewards for milestones…” She licked her damp lips, suddenly seductive. “It’s a bit cheeky, but… I’m sure Motoko has already said that we need to make an impression since we’re disadvantaged in terms of your day, since you’ve already made so many good memories… so I’m sure we’ll be forgiven for pushing the boundaries just a little.” She held her thumb and forefinger just an inch apart.

“And speaking of memories… my Bracer was always whispering to my subconscious, I’m sure, aiding my understanding of the spear. But now… now I’ve reached a level of Skill that won’t shame me, or the hero whose memories live on… I can understand them. Bedwyr had his own ruthless and practical Style. I’ll never abandon Tsumura Style, but… learning from another can only give me perspective on where Tsumura Style lacks in terms of spearwork. It’s greedy, but… after all, snakes and serpents throughout mythology are known for swallowing everything, and the Hydra… it has many heads.” She winked at me, and I nodded, agreeing.

“That makes sense to me. It’s like our Chakra networks. Mixing and matching, if done with care, can create results greater than the sum of the disparate parts. There’s only one worry…” I smiled winningly. “You’ve dressed up so prettily I don’t want to ruin your outfit.”

“How sweet!” Natsumi blushed, her brown eyes sparkling with happiness. “Fortunately for you, we won’t be properly battling each other, just working through forms, practising motions, and… I want to use your Eyes and observational prowess to spot any flaws. Besides, you’re a practitioner of Tsumura Style too, so you have a responsibility to perfect it… oh…” She winked, and her flush deepened. “…and provide an heir to continue the Style. Two, at least. Motoko and I both need descendants to carry on the legacy…”

Huh? “What brought that to mind?” I asked, shocked, and Natsumi shook her head, pouting.

“Sorry. Mother and father are planning for the wedding, at least the traditional and Western wedding garments, your wedding suit and montsuki kimono, even hats and other accoutrements. Sure, it’s not impossible more brides will sneak in, but they wanted to make a start, since each outfit is a labour of love and must be perfect. And after that… well, they feel that with Asha already pregnant, I need to step up.” Her face rosy with shame and also anticipation, she giggled nervously.

“Of course, I’m still young, I’m in no rush, but… I do want children in the future. Anyway, sorry in advance, they’ll probably get drunk and badger you about it tomorrow. My father’s terrible when he’s had too much sake during gatherings. Now… get your spear!” She hefted Gurenyari, covering embarrassment with action. “Let’s do this! I’ll explain what I’ve grasped of Bedwyr’s Style. It’s rudimentary, but hopefully if we practise it, I’ll learn more…”

With a wry grin I grabbed my spear, and as I was looking out at Tokyo Bay and the lights gleaming on the ocean with Motoko on the Material, I spun the weapon here, warming up.

“All right then, here’s the first thing. The stance is different to the standard Tsumura Style spear stance. I think if we consider it like this…”