On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

The burly, well-dressed doorman looked at us dubiously, saying something in Korean to Yu-mi, who was now dressed up similar to Eri, only her dress was a classy black with subtle white detailing around the chest and hems, and a tight if somewhat short skirt, and a little more exposure around her cleavage. I heard Yu-mi’s surname mentioned, and her smile broadened. She turned to me, and switched to English. “He’s not too keen on letting us in, he thinks Eri might be underage. Though Korea has a strange way of calculating age. But really, he might just not want to because you’re Japanese. This is the most exclusive nightclub in Gangnam, where a lot of the rich and powerful go. But… I don’t think we’ll have a problem. Assuming you don’t mind a little attention?”

“What do you have in mind?” I asked.

“It’s fine, we can go elsewhere…” Eri began, but Yu-mi denied that with a snort of displeasure.

“No way! We’re partying like we can only do in Gangnam. You have to get used to it, girl. You’re a VIP, aren’t you? Besides, it’s the principle of the thing. And it’s possible we’ll see some people it might be good for you to meet. And…” she smiled coquettishly. “While I’m qualified to come here because I’m a member due to my dad, if I introduce you, they’ll treat me like a top-tier member from now on.”

I let out a laugh. “Fine. I can handle any trouble, nobody will bother you two while I’m here.” I pulled off my mask and sunglasses, and Yu-mi switched back to Korean. The doorman looked at me, eyes narrowing, and then down at his phone. He said something to Yu-mi as she typed, and she laughed triumphantly, replying. The man brought up a video, glanced at me, glanced down again, and then looked shocked.

“He’s worked out you’re who I said you were.” Yu-mi giggled. She addressed the doorman again, and this time he hurriedly stepped aside. Holding out an arm to Eri, she took it, and I graciously escorted her in. Looking at me expectantly, I raised an eyebrow, and Yu-mi flushed a little, her ears pink. “Look, I want to show off that you’re here with me. I know my place, but can’t a woman be a little boastful? You don’t mind, do you, Eri? Since you’re learning to be tolerant.”

Eri sniffed. “It’s fine, I suppose, Tagalong-san. I concede you’ve led us around well today, and I’ve had fun with Akio.”

“So cold. You need to work on being honest.” Yu-mi laughed, taking my other arm, and she led us into a beautifully furnished and expansive open space. There was a large dancefloor, sparsely populated with young men and women, dancing slowly. Behind it was a massive DJ booth, and the floor was surrounded by numerous private booths, with handsome waiters and waitresses in smart yet revealing outfits scurrying about, carrying trays of expensive drinks, while there was a large bar down one side of the building, where a number of men were mingling and chatting. As we entered, Eri was looking around, eyes wide. Seeing her reaction, Yu-mi was pleased.

“You said you were a small town girl, right? You probably haven’t done much clubbing. I know Japan is very strict with their drinking age as well.”

“Yes, though like you said, with privilege comes rule breaking.” I mused. “The nobility drink from a young age at parties and events, it’s kind of accepted. Motoko is quite a strong drinker, surprisingly. Healthy appetite too. As for Eri…”

“Yes, it’s never really interested me.” She seemed a little shy under everyone’s gazes, but after a deep breath, she merely smiled broadly, trying to be a woman to match me. “But then, nothing much did. I was a hopeless girl. I have to say it’s very… different.” We spoke quite quietly, despite the loud music playing, yet we could hear each other rather easily, due to our high stats. Yu-mi had to strain a little and speak up, but she was managing.

“So, want to enjoy ourselves?” I grinned, and Eri nodded.

“Yes, I think so. Because I’m here with you.” As we gazed into each other’s eyes, Yu-mi coughed loudly.

“Oh come on. Don’t exclude me and drift off into your own worlds. We’re here to drink, dance and party. And…” she looked at the other patrons, seeming to recognise a few. “…maybe make a few connections.”

One of the smartly dressed female servers, wearing tight shorts and t-shirt, highlighting her attractive figure, came over and said something in Korean. Yu-mi spoke back, and the server blinked. “English. I can? So, Park-nim, you’ve brought some… interesting guests. There was a message from the doorman… is he…?” She looked at me, expectant.

“Oh how rude of me. Yes, these are indeed the most important guests you’ll see.” Her smile was wicked. “This is Oshiro Moonstone Akio, the Hero of Britain, Japan’s finest, and … no, just watch the news. You’ll see soon.” She giggled mischievously. “This beauty here is Mori Eri, one of his precious fiancées. So… do you have a top luxury booth? We’re on a splurge tonight, to celebrate a… oh…” She lowered her voice. “Can I trust you, Ahn?” She seemed to know the woman, which made sense, as apparently Gangnam was one of Yu-mi’s favourite places to party.

“I would never betray your trust, Park-nim!” she declared, eyeing me eagerly.

“In that case… Akio here…” she said, showing off her closeness to us. “…just got back from a special mission, and he’ll probably be called the Hero of Korea too soon. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s called to the Blue House to get a commendation. But it’s been a tough time, so we’re here to relax. What do you want to drink, Akio, Eri? I’ll have … oh, just bring a bottle. The Alize should do it. I’m in the mood to get slaughtered!”

“The Alize. A good choice.” Ahn said happily. “Do you want any mixers with that?”

“Eri, you don’t like to drink too much, right? Yes, bring some juice, vodka is hard neat. Oh, and best bring some beers too. A dozen should suffice, in an ice bucket.”

“Right away!” Ahn agreed, before pursing her lips. “But be careful, Park-nim. It’s not good to drink too much. Our club does indeed pride itself on the high class of clientele, so even the most… relaxed… guests can be safe, but… I would feel dreadful if you were taken advantage of later.”

She does seem worried. And I don’t think it’s merely about reputational damage. Seems like Yu-mi actually is rather popular. So in theory, she’s definitely a catch for Adamant. With her and Violet-noona, we can certainly start making inroads here…

“Take advantage of me? When I’m here with the Hero of Britain… who, may I add, is highly likely to be awarded a title from the Queen of Britain too…” Yu-mi seemed to be enjoying herself, and she was making sure Ahn’s gaze was drawn to where our arms were connected. “…even if the Devil itself popped out, or an entire jopok…” she paused, realising we didn’t understand the Korean word. “…that’s basically a yakuza or mafia group.” she explained. “…attacked us, Akio would see them off, and I’d be escorted to our hotel with not a scratch on me, and not on Eri either, of course.”

“Your hotel? Are you… staying together?” Ahn asked, wide-eyed.

“Of course.” Yu-mi laughed. “Now, that booth?”

Ahn blinked, before bowing politely. “Sorry, Park-ssi, Oshiro-ssi, Mori-ssi. I forgot myself at being in such important company. The boss will be most disappointed in me. This way…”

We were soon seated in a beautiful glass-fronted booth with luxurious leather sofas in a semi-circle, easily big enough for twenty people. The glass kept the sound muted, the music falling to a background hum, but there was a speaker system that could let it in, as well as a small, intimate dancefloor for the booth residents. Several other such booths were full, and the glass in one was tinted, making the people within mere shadowy shapes. Eri looked down, seeing the controls, surprised, before turning back to Yu-mi. “Are you sure about that? You implied you’re intimate with us, with Akio. Won’t it hurt your reputation?”

“What does it matter? I’m tied to the rules of Adamant, so It’s not like I can date anyway, and I’m between partners.” Yu-mi shrugged. “Don’t worry, I won’t tell any other members about the purpose of the rules. Besides, even if I seem a bit of a hanger-on, like you keep saying, Eri, or a shameless woman trying to snare him, it’s Akio. Few people will blame me, I’ll probably get more respect.”

Before Eri could answer, Ahn came in expertly carrying a tray, followed by a young guy carrying a bucket of beers filled with ice, a number of bottles of brightly coloured juice, as well as a tray with snacks on. Ahn placed down the bottle of vodka as well as a number of crystal glasses of varying sizes. Eri’s eyes sparkled as she saw the pretty bottle, which was encrusted with a number of sparkling crystals.

“Thanks.” Yu-mi said, handing over some money as a tip. “Oh and Eri, you can keep the bottle. Those are Swarovski crystals. It inflates the price of the vodka, for sure… but it’s still good.”

As the male server left, Ahn paused. “Park-ssi, there are already a lot of enquiries from our other guests, asking if they can come visit. Is that fine?”

Yu-mi looked at me questioningly. I glanced at Eri, and she shrugged. “If they aren’t too annoying. This is my time with you!”

Yu-mi snickered. “You heard the lady. No irritating guests. But give us an hour and a half first to have some relaxation time.”

Ahn nodded. “In that case… if I may, the owner would be deeply keen on seeing you all at some point.”

“The owner, huh? A great honour.” Yu-mi mused. “That’s fine. But I’m sure he can bring a bottle with him. Not that Akio is hurting for money, but…”

“Of course.” Ahn said politely. “It’s a matter of manners. Well, do excuse me. Have an excellent time!” With that, we were left alone, and with a smile, Yu-mi removed the top from the bottle, pouring us three generous glasses of the clear liquid. I wasn’t an expert on vodka, more usually drinking beer, whiskey or shochu, but it had a crisp smell.

“Do you want juice?” Yu-mi asked Eri, and she shook her head.

“I’ll try it as is to start.” Eri said, taking a glass.

“In that case…” I said, smiling broadly. “Cheers!”

“Cheers!” they echoed, and after clinking our glasses together, we took a swig. Yes, this isn’t bad. Not bad at all…

********

“Yes, that’s it!” Yu-mi giggled, swaying her body, face flushed, as she moved around the small dancefloor. Opposite her, Eri was dancing as well, she was lacking in experience or sense, but her movements were graceful and deft, her great Precision aiding her. A glass of orange juice, mixed with vodka, was in her hand, and as she took a sip, she smiled.

“Much better. I don’t like the strong taste, but this isn’t so bad…”

“We’ll make a drinker of you yet!” Yu-mi laughed. “Though you should be careful, you’ve had a lot…” The bottle was empty, and half of a second one was gone too.

“Ether Healing and my Fortitude means it’s hard to get drunk. I can’t control it properly yet, unlike Akio, so even if I downed the bottle, I’m sure I’d sober up quickly.”

“Well that’s just sad, cutie.” Yu-mi giggled again. “Guess there are some downsides to power, huh? Oh well, not going to dance with us, Akio? Or are you just watching us?”

“Fine!” To be honest, I was very much enjoying watching Eri. Her blue dress suited her beautifully, and the silver highlights and embroidery were glittering prettily under the bright lights of the nightclub. Getting up, I took Eri’s hand and started to dance. It wasn’t as if I hadn’t been to clubs in Akihabara, Shinjuku and other hotspots, though I had seldom danced much. But I know what I’m doing…

“That’s the way!” Yu-mi laughed, grabbing our hands and swaying in time to the beats of the music. She stumbled a little, and I caught her. She flushed, laughing heartly, and at Eri’s stern glance, stuck out her tongue. “Have a heart! How many women can say they’ve danced with him? I can dine out on this story for years!”

“I think you’d have better stories to tell!” Eri pressed her body against mine, and I was sure that her chest had grown a little. She kissed my lips gently, and as I continued to dance with them, there was a knock on he door to the booth.

“I think the guests are here.” Yu-mi said, disengaging, and walked over, a little unsteady. Maybe she needs a little Ether Healing…

“Looks like the fun’s over…” Eri sighed, only for me to shake my head.

“No way. Sure, we can meet a few other patrons, but this is your night, and it’s far from over yet.”

“No, no it isn’t.” Eri agreed happily, and as the heat of passion smouldered in her black eyes, I thought that I was going to be in for one hell of a night..

“Let me introduce you…” Yu-mi was saying, bringing over three young men and a woman of similar age, all smartly dressed and wearing expensive watches and jewellery. “This is Oshiro Akio, you must have seen him on TV. And his fiancée Mori Eri. Anyway, Akio, Eri, this here is Cho Chul, heir to the Meritz Financial Group. They’re a big player in Korea. And this one is…” As Yu-mi introduced us all, I put on my best business smile, preparing for a battle of a different sort…

********

“This has been greatly illuminating!” Cho Chul said, glancing over at Yu-mi. “I had no idea that you were involved with so many Japanese businesses. It seems we have more in common that I’d have imagined.”

Eri managed to keep her face impassive, but she had certainly drunk a lot, though I was proud that she’d actually been sociable, hiding her irritation as best she could. Several girls were talking to her, one the daughter of a famous Korean actor, the other a daughter of a Chaebol, like Yu-mi. They were asking her a lot about me, as well as praising her beauty. Which is understandable. She looks amazing tonight.

“We must do this again.” one girl was saying. “Partying in Gangnam is simply the thing to do!”

“It’s been… something new.” Eri managed, and Yu-mi, seeing her in distress, slid into the conversation effortlessly, leaving me to Cho Chul, who lowered his voice.

“So you’ve got your eye on Park Yu-mi then? I don’t blame you. Perhaps she’s not the most beautiful of the girls in our circles, but she’s friendly, popular and cute enough. She seems pretty receptive. What am I saying?” He laughed heartily, and I felt it was a bit false. “Who wouldn’t be into you? So… going to show us a trick?” As others around us nodded, I held in a sigh, levitating the empty vodka bottle with wind element, sending it rising into the air. As they watched, bright eyed, I was relieved the conversation had shifted.

“I hear that President Moon is about to make some sort of announcement.” another woman was saying. Now all the sofas were full, and our spacious booth was stuffed. Even the dancefloor was occupied, and I couldn’t help but notice one woman a bit older than me was making sure I could get tantalising glimpses of her legs under her scarily short mini dress. Yeah, she’s hot, but… not interested. “Rumour is that it’s about the scandal of the missing children.” The woman looked at me, eyes narrowing.

“Well you’d know, Soo-Ah-noona!” one man said brightly. “Your uncle is the man in charge of the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. Oh, no, it’s Interior, Safety and Hunters now, right?”

“Yes, it’s MOISH.” another agreed. “What a mouthful.”

“Everyone knows someone who has a relative at Choe-Museon.” she continued. “A lot of us went there ourselves back in the day. Dreadful school. Perhaps it’s why we all like to party.” The woman giggled archly. “But uncle came over for dinner yesterday evening, and he looked much more relaxed, even cracking some jokes. And here we have someone famous, who solved the crisis London faced. I may not have excelled in my studies, but I can put one and one together and get two.”

I shrugged. “Far be it from me to steal your President’s thunder. So I’ll have to decline to answer.”

“Cagey, aren’t you?” Cho Chul snorted. “In any case, how about we exchange contacts? And how about a selfie? Otherwise those who couldn’t make it tonight won’t believe us…”

“Yes, a selfie sounds excellent.” A hearty voice boomed. We turned, to see a great bear of a man with shaggy blonde hair and a muscular build, unusual for an Asian, had entered, carrying a beautiful bottle of some spirit with a rich golden colour. Everyone seemed respectful suddenly, and Yu-mi greeted him warmly.

“Master Bear…” she smiled. “This truly is an honour.”

“Bear?” Eri asked, and the man eyed her for a moment, before answering, his English some of the crispest we had heard so far.

“Yes, that’s my nickname. They call me Gomdori-nim, but in English, Master Bear suffices. I am the owner of this club. So compared to the whelps here, my status is lacking, but…”

“Nonsense.” Yu-mi denied that. “Without your nightclub, Gangnam would lack its beating heart. Why, the events that have happened here over the years are the stuff of legend, and it’s the favourite haunt of our entire generation. You’ve made it a place that we can truly enjoy. Though I think tonight is going to join that history!”

As everyone else agreed, Eri and I exchanged looks. The man opened the bottle, and a rich fragrance filled the air. The people around us were speaking in Korean, and Yu-mi swallowed. “Is that… the nineteen seventy-six Dictador Rum? That’s out of even my price range.” She winked at me, and I knew she was making a joke about me taking her inheritance again.

“Well, we have a distinguished guest, I simply had to pay my regards. Although… perhaps you’ve had enough to drink?”

“I don’t care, I’ll risk a hangover to have a shot of that!” Yu-mi giggled. “Besides, Akio here will carry me home.”

“So it’s like that, is it? How interesting.” Seeing the large number of guests, he sent servers to get several more bottles, though the rum and vodka he had them bring was a cut below the Dictador. He poured four generous measures, and handed Eri, me and Yu-mi glasses, keeping one for himself. “You boys and girls will have to make do with the ordinary quality. On me, since tonight is an auspicious day.” Nobody complained, and they thanked him profusely.

“This is strong, but… it has flavour.” Eri admitted as she sipped at it, and I took a mouthful, agreeing.

“Yes, it’s not bad. Shaeula would like this.”

“Hey, is that the bar my way girl?” one man said, and Yu-mi shushed him.

“Don’t be rude to Akio. He’s very devoted to his girlfriends.”

“Oh, is that why you’re clinging to him, Yu-mi? Damn, I’m jealous!” another man laughed drunkenly, making Yu-mi flush, and she drained her drink.

“Oh my, this was worth the wait. Thanks Gomdori-nim!” she giggled. “So, here to see the man of the hour? He and Eri have been enjoying the club, although…” she glanced at her watch. “It’ll soon be time for dancing!”

“I can take a hint.” Master Bear agreed, topping up our glasses. “But I could hardly let such a momentous guest pass through unnoticed. I wondered if I could get some images of you enjoying yourselves here. Perhaps a few in the booth, chatting to the young future heirs to Korea, one on the dancefloor, at the bar…”

I looked at Eri, and she shrugged. “As long as it’s a decent picture, nothing seedy.”

“Who would dare to take candid shots of you?” he said, and one man looked a bit shamefaced. With a smile which lacked humour I glared at the man, and he took out his phone. He unlocked it, and I skimmed through. There were several shots of Eri, and also a couple of Yu-mi, nothing too scandalous, but even so, I deleted them. “You’re lucky. If there was a panty-shot or one down their tops, your phone would be discovering what it’s like to fall into a volcano right now, and I’d not be pleased.”

Yu-mi giggled, finishing another glass of the rum. “You’re so gentlemanly. I can’t say I hate it! Anyway, we’ve chatted enough for now, we need to get out there and dance, dance, dance! There might be time to talk later!”

I turned back to Master Bear. “Sure, to be honest, this club is something very special. The ones I’ve been to in Tokyo are no comparison. But … how about this. Next time, I’ll bring all my girls here, and we’ll have a party. I’m sure you can get us a booth like this, right?”

“That sounds a perfectly fair exchange to me.” He grinned, his voice booming. “Now, do enjoy yourself, and don’t worry, I’ll run the photographs by you all first. Now, drink up!” He left us with the bottle, and so I poured it out, though not before trickling a little Ether Healing in to sober Yu-mi up a touch. She looked at me gratefully, before taking a swig. She then finished her glass, grabbing me and Eri by the hand, leading us out into the now packed club, heading for the dancefloor. Eri and I exchanged glances, before she smiled. Yeah, might as well live it up. It’s not every day we can do this…

********

“That was a loooooot of fun.” Yu-mi said drunkenly, kicking off her high heels, then slumping down on the sofa, face flushed.

“Now she’s speaking like Hyacinth.” Eri observed, exasperated but amused. She took off her heels in a more relaxed fashion, noticing I couldn’t help but look down her dress as she did so. Winking, she stretched. “Anyway, that was a lot more fun than I expected. And it felt very adult.”

“Of course it was, you’re funny, Eri!” Yu-mi laughed. Despite me offering Healing earlier, she had made up for it by drinking hard afterwards and she was now worse than before. “You should have seen the way the guys were glaring at Akio. Jealousy is a terrible thing, but you’re gorgeous, so it’s only natural.”

“I think some of them were looking at you too.” Eri said magnanimously, and Yu-mi agreed, waving her feet at us.

“Of course. I’m fairly well known and popular. Even dated a few of the patrons. All a bit shallow though, I never felt the need to get serious with any of them. Hey, I guess I’m shallow too! Dad wants me to settle down… no, dad wanted to marry me off. To you!” she giggled uncontrollably.

“Put her out of her misery and Heal her again, please.” Eri went over and pushed down Yu-mi’s legs, as she was defencelessly flashing me. Pink, I see. Surprising. “Come on, you’ll feel so embarrassed in the morning.” Eri warned her. Yu-mi merely shrugged.

“It doesn’t matter! You two are cool! I had a great time!” I could practically hear her punctuation. “Everyone was so interested in us! And jealous!” she paused. “Hey, want room service? We can keep going!”

“Nope, you’ve had enough!” Eri used her strength to restrain her, which was wise as Yu-mi’s dress was becoming very dishevelled, and things that shouldn’t be visible were peeking out. I stepped up, and let aether flow. Yu-mi suddenly shivered, her flush diminishing, and she smiled ruefully.

“Woah, was I that wasted? I guess I went a bit mad…” Now a different flush was in her face. She looked down, her pink bra peeking out from her dress, and she adjusted it. “Uh… consider it some fanservice?”

“As long as you’re not upset.” I sighed, sitting down on the other sofa. Eri snuggled in beside me, and we enjoyed the relaxation. Yeah, it was definitely fun in the club, but it was also pretty hectic. I did make some interesting contacts though. I’ll see if Hinata can use any of them.

“Me? No, it doesn’t matter. Just a little embarrassing, but who cares? It’s not like you haven’t seen plenty of girls in worse states, right?” she said, surprisingly reasonable. “So, how was your trip? You’re heading home tomorrow, right? I have to come too, apparently. Something about my induction into Adamant?”

“Yeah. Until we get a Ring Gate set up in Korea, you can’t exactly come and go for your training in the Boundary.” I agreed. “You need to learn at least one element for self-defence, and some other Skills if you can.”

We continued chatting, reminiscing about the day. My phone beeped after a while, and it was Master Bear, sending over the photographs. I had sent a message to Hinata, checking that being seen in Korea wouldn’t hinder her plans for the Tengokusentou, and she had responded she could manage it, so that wasn’t the issue. I showed the photographs, and Yu-mi and Eri looked them over.

“Damn, we look cute.” Yu-mi laughed, the shot of the three of us on the dancefloor catching her attention. “And this one’s good too! Though I look wasted. I wasn’t lying when I said I’d get slaughtered…”

As we talked, I felt something touch my groin. I could see Eri’s hands, so I glanced down, only to find it was a furry tail. Cat ears had also appeared on her head, and Yu-mi opened her mouth, surprised. “That’s hilarious. Can you really control the tail like that?” I was a bit uncomfortable as she was basically staring at my groin, even if I was wearing trousers.

“Not perfectly.” Eri admitted, her tail pushing against me. “It’s hardly fully prehensile. But there’s no doubt with practice I’ll get better.” Her cat ears flickered cutely. “Now, is there a reason you’re staring at Akio like that? You aren’t still drunk, are you?”

“No, well, yes, but I’m only tipsy, thanks.” Yu-mi sighed. “Anyway, you have your own room if you’re going to fool around, it’ll just depress me.”

“Jealous?” Eri asked, surprising me, and Yu-mi shrugged.

“I wouldn’t say I’m jealous, but… it’s a complicated feeling. Besides, what girl wants to watch other people make out? I certainly don’t right now.” She crossed and uncrossed her legs, a little uncomfortable, and I got another flash. Yep, pink. Changing the subject, Yu-mi had a thought. “So, you say that Eri can do all this despite being an ordinary person? That’s incredible. So could I get that good?”

“It’d be difficult.” I admitted. “Eri has advantages, as I said. And the Shifting Cat ability is a miracle. It won’t be repeated. But… you can certainly master a few useful things.” Eri’s tail and her chest were both exciting me.

“Oh well, makes sense, I suppose.” Yu-mi shrugged again. “So, what else can you do other than turn into a cat?”

Eri smiled, and suddenly her hair turned a brilliant red. Her facial features also shifted a little, and her chest grew. “I can alter my body a bit. Change my colouring, general shape, facial features. I’m not yet able to assume other forms like Ginneka can…” she paused, grinning maliciously. “So when I can, maybe I’ll turn into you, Yu-mi, and let Akio have a good time!”

“Hey, you think that’ll upset me? It won’t be me.” Yu-mi scoffed, but her eyes were sparkling. “Though that would be insane. You’d have endless appeal in bed, Akio could sleep with the image of anyone he wanted. The blackmail potential too…”

“Yeah, no way. Nobody’s seeing compromising pictures of Eri, even if she’s changed forms.” I insisted, scooping her into my arms. “Anyway, I’m afraid it’s time to say good night. Thanks for your help, Yu-mi, Eri and I have worked things out. And we had fun today, right?” Eri nodded in my arms. “Also, thanks for introducing me to so many important people. Our Korean connections were lacking, and sure, most of them were heirs or family members, but we can use them.”

“It’s my pleasure.” Yu-mi said, looking away shyly. “Now get going! It’s harassment flirting in front of me like that! And you’ve had all the fanservice you’re getting!”

“That’d be more convincing if you’d noticed your skirt has hiked up and you’re flashing him.” Eri snorted, and as Yu-mi pulled down her dress, she burst out laughing.

Spoiler

[collapse]

“That shouldn’t even happen. You must have the Devil’s luck. Oh well, I’m sure Eri will drive the thoughts out of your head.”

Yeah, not with my memory, but she sure will try. Eri was breathing fast, her chest heaving, and she was clearly eager for it. “Sadly I have a very good memory. But I’ll thank you for the meal!” I said the usual Japanese quip for these sort of situations. “Now, good night. If your head hurts tomorrow I’ll be happy to cure you fully. But it destroys the fun if you get rid of all the drunkenness.”

“Fun. For you!” Yu-mi snickered, waving a hand. “See you later, Akio, Eri.”

Leaving Yu-mi behind and entering our suite room, Eri started giggling in my arms, before she burst out laughing. “That was funny! She’s so defenceless around you. I think you made more of an impression on her than she thinks.”

“This is a bit of a change.” I laid Eri down on the bed and lay down beside her, looking into her eyes, which she had returned to normal. “Normally you’d be irritated by that sort of thing.”

“I’m not going to act like Shiro or Shaeula and push you at her.” Eri insisted. I reached out, gently ruffling her cat ears, which were warm and soft, and Eri melted under my touch, arching her back in a catlike manner, her own skirts parting, one slender leg popping free. “But… I’m also not going to get worked up over something as minor as some panty shots or a flash of her bra. Even if you walked in on her naked as she was in the shower… well, I’d feel sorry for her then. As it stands, it’s just an embarrassing funny story for her. But I have to be confident that I’m more alluring than her, and… here you are. I have to be composed. Not easy-going, if I’m easy-going then Shaeula and the others will keep getting into trouble. But I have to be reasonable. Now…” she squirmed as I started kissing her neck, and she flushed. “…hang on, I’m being serious.”

“So am I. I’m serious about making love to you.” I replied, and Eri’s flush deepened, her skin scarlet.

“And we will! I’m itching for it too. But… serious talk first. If you made a move on Yu-mi then, I’d have accepted it. I’d say it was too hasty, and I’d be talking to you about that… but I’d talk to her afterwards, make sure she knows how we do things. But I’m glad you didn’t. She’s smart enough, and seems nice, but… is that enough? I don’t think so. But we’ll be working with her a long time. If you get to know her better, and you start to like her, I won’t…” Her words were cut off, as I kissed her, my tongue forcing her lips open, and as I tangled mine with hers, saliva scattering, she pushed her arms around me, as well as twisting her tail around my thigh.

As we pulled apart, I licked my lips, tasting her. “Don’t worry. I’m not thinking about Yu-mi right now. Although…”

“Oh, did her defenceless flash turn you on?” Eri smile. “If I’d have known, I’d have done that years ago. I was too shy though. Fortunately, I’ve changed and so have you.” She rolled to one side, theatrically moving her tail, and I realised it had been poking out of the slit in her dress, and so was much longer than I had expected. It pulled back upwards, rolling up her skirt, and soon her underwear was visible. It was blue to match the dress, with silver ribbons decorating it, and it was also cut quite daringly, some of the dark fabric fairly transparent.

“Oh my tail has a will of its own. How shameful!” Eri cried, enjoying the roleplay, and I grabbed it, enjoying the furry feel. As I did so, Eri shuddered, and I found that fascinating. Gently stroking it up and down, I rejoiced at the throaty purrs of pleasure Eri was exuding. She stuck out her tongue and so I sucked on it greedily, kissing her tender lips. As I did so, Eri unzipped her dress, so that as she contorted in pleasure, it came undone, and her breasts, clad in a dark blue bra matching her panties, spilled out.

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“They were right. I do like the underwear, and seeing it before wouldn’t have been as fun.” I praised the shop assistants.

“So… ah… have you forgotten…” she muttered, and I laughed, playfully stroking her cat ears too.

“Forgotten? Don’t know what you mean.” I teased, eyeing Eri. “I’ve been wondering, have you been changing your height recently?”

“Sometimes. I’ve been experimenting to reach my ideal… ahh… state.” Eri’s hands undid my belt, and her eyes were sparkling damply, her arousal unusual, her mannerisms more catlike. “Anyway, mother, auntie Emily, the others… they all say I’m growing more beautiful. I think I am… but you never seem to notice.” She puffed out her cheeks adorably, so I sped up my hand on her tail, and her back arched. As it did so, she unfastened her bra somehow without touching it, and her breasts spilled free, nipples already hard. I took my hand off her ears and started kneading her ample breasts, feeling the softness, and one finger started stroking her nipple, and her breathing sped up, her breath hot.

“You’ve always been beautiful. That’s never changed.” I said, and Eri shook her head.

“That’s no good! You need to see me, just as I see you, and we see the others! Seeing what we expect to see is where… we… ahn… went… uh… wrong… ahn… before…” Her voice grew strained and quieter as her tail and breast were touched tenderly. I then bent down, sucking at her other breast, and I noticed that her panties were starting to grow damp, and the sour smell of her arousal was in the air.

My Eye picked up a little aether, and my underwear slid down, freeing my cock. Eri eyed it, and her hand grasped it, and she started stroking it, just as I was her tail, matching my motions, which made me shiver. My reason was starting to slip away, my love and lust for Eri spiking, but I listened to what she had said, and really looked at her. “You’re right.” I agreed. “Our relationship, our perceptions were frozen. But now we’ve thawed. Yes, you’re stunning. A match for any. And… sexy. Incredibly so!” Now I took a deep, good look at her, Eri had changed. She was still herself, just… more.

“Of course. I’m … uh… a Temptress, only for… ahn… you!” Eri gasped wetly, her warmth communicated to me through my hand. “Though… ahn uh… maybe I’ll no longer… ahn… be Dark!” She suddenly reared up, biting my ear, and then whispered a suggestion which surprised me.

“Sure.” I agreed, and I released her tail. She grinned, asking for a kiss, and after we parted, a bridge of saliva linking us for a moment, I slid down her panties, the fabric heavy with her nectar. I gently started toying with her clit and pussy, my other hand once more touching her breasts and ears alternatively, while her hands were stroking my skin, and her tail… That feels… impossible to describe. It was coiled around my dick, twisting and stroking it, and the sensation was nothing like hand, lips or even a pussy, being warm, furry and somehow muscular.

“How… is it?” Eri managed, her skin flushed. “Nobody else… ahn… can do this yet.”

Yeah, Shaeula’s tail in her weaselkin form is a bit short and not so prehensile… I let that stupid thought wash through me, and concentrated on attacking Eri’s weak spots, now licking the ear I wasn’t fondling. It tasted strange, the fur odd, but as I sucked on it, it seemed to be a very pleasurable thing for Eri, who was panting loudly, sweat oozing from her skin. Her pussy was leaking like a broken faucet, and her clit was growing engorged, a pretty red bean that shivered under my fingers. Mischievously, I slid a few fingers inside her, poking Eri’s sensitive spots, but she pouted, biting down on my shoulder.

“I don’t… want… uh, ahn… your fingers, I want…” she began, but as my hand sped up, she quickly cried out, reaching orgasm, spurting a trickle of love nectar. As her body convulsed lightly, she eyed me accusingly, before her smile turned wicked, and the motions of her tail sped up, coiling around my cock like a constricting snake. As I bit down on her ear, she teased me, her fingers stroking my glans, and the sensation of the combined tail and finger assault was indescribable.

“Eri, I’m…” I gasped, and she smirked.

“Let it out! You did it to me, so turnabout… is fair.” Her words were still slow and laboured, but her tail showed no fatigue, and with a cry I came hard, cloudy white liquid shooting over her hands and tail, tangling in the fur. She kept squeezing and squeezing, tail wringing me dry, and soon the sheets and her body was sticky with my cum.

“How was that?” Eri said proudly, reaching down and wiping her belly, before tasting my release, her delicate lips opening, tongue lapping at it, in a very catlike manner. “Bitter. But the flavour is different. I wonder if it’s down to the alcohol?”

“I doubt it.” I picked up Eri’s tail, making her shiver. “Ugh, your fur is all matted and gross now. They never talk about that when it comes to sex with beast girls.”

“You read that sort of manga, do you?” Eri accused me jovially, before concentrating. For a moment her tail vanished, cum falling to the bed, then it reappeared. “Oh well, not an issue I have to worry about. But what worries me…” She reached down, spreading her dripping, twitching pussy. “…is how much I want you inside me. It’s been too long. I always knew I wanted you, but I never knew I was such a lewd girl. But…” she eyed me, amused. “…I’ve been practising, as I said. Not for this… well, not just for this, I’m trying to grow stronger, I don’t want to be in a position where I hold everyone back again, but as a side benefit…” Her hair changed colour, switching between a silver like Shiro’s, amber like Shaeula’s, pink, bright blue, green and more. Her eyes changed as well. “…I can’t do wholesale changes, like becoming someone else, but… you’ll never get bored, right?”

“Silly girl.” I kissed her, a leisurely, yet lewd kiss, tongues pecking at each other, while I massaged her breasts and slid a hand to her ass, enjoying the feel of it. “I could never be bored of you. Never!”

“I know.” Eri gasped, her kissing becoming more frantic. “But I’m prepared to do anything for you, even change. No, I have to change. Otherwise I’m just a nuisance to you and the others, and I can’t bear that. I’m lucky. No matter what, I have memories with you nobody else except Aiko has…” She paused, and a wicked grin spread on her face. “You know, If I can change into anyone, I could be Aiko… haven’t you wondered…?” She suddenly burst out laughing at the shocked, scandalised expression on my face.

“Eri, what the hell? You are the one that always gets angry when Shaeula makes those jokes…” I was lost for words, but she merely hugged me, pulling me close.

“I know. But I think… I’m too serious. I thought I’d try being a girl you don’t have to tiptoe around. I know you don’t see Aiko that way. You may be a pervert, but you’re a good man. I’ve always known that.” She patted my head tenderly. “There, there. Good boy! But… sex is fun because it’s intimate, shameful, passionate.” We lay in each other’s embrace, kissing and stroking, keeping the fires hot, and my dick was pressing against Eri’s belly, eager to slide lower and enter her.

“I know, but… this fires me up enough!” I insisted, and Eri laughed happily.

“Me as well. Though honestly, it’s not so bad, sharing with Hyacinth, Shaeula and the others. I feel closer to them when we fuck you together.” Eri used the crude word, and that made my dick quiver. “So I have this talent, and I’ll hone it. Mostly for battle, but… if it makes me more appealing, I’ll do it! And if you ever want to screw two Shaeula’s at once, or Yu-mi, or a celebrity like Tamami-chan, or even Aiko… I’ll never judge you. Because for you, I’ll change, and take on any form that pleases you. So release your desires to me!”

“So long as the more that changes, the more…” Our tongues entwined, this time with eager desperation , and as we pulled apart, saliva scattering, I gazed into her black orbs, my grey ones serious. “…you stay the same. Don’t ever lose what makes you Eri. Else I’d never be happy.”

“Just knowing you cherish me not just because of our past makes me happy.” Eri shed some light tears. “But… I want to play too. So… I can adjust my hair, eye colour, skin tone, and size to some extent. What would you like?”

“Just the hair and eyes is fine. That’ll be fresh enough. Although no, thinking about it…” I whispered something to her, and she giggled.

“So lewd! But yes, I can do that. I wonder… maybe it’ll be fun.” Her body shifted, and her hair and eyes turned a brilliant pink, her hair shortening on one side and growing into a ponytail on the other, and her body shrunk a little, her chest diminishing in volume. “I can’t mimic an anime character properly, especially from a show I’ve not watched, but… is this close enough?”

“Yeah. Yasu-san… no, Yasu-kun…” Words and honorifics to keep distance between me and others need to go. I’m not who I used to be. “…would be screaming right now. Honestly, I love Shaeula and her body, but I’ve not got a fetish for this. It’s just… different to you. Might as well make the most of it. Next time…”

“Yes, maybe I’ll get a figure like Aliyah.” Eri laughed. “Though she’d try and kill you if she ever heard that.” With a grin, Eri, making a facsimile of Benitsubasa, my favourite Sekirei from the show of the same name, spread her legs. “Akio, make love to me! Fill me up and make me yours! I’m on birth control, more’s the pity. There’s no rush now anyway, it seems.” As I tilted my head, puzzled at her words, she shrugged, her smaller chest not bouncing as much as usual. “It doesn’t matter. You’ll know soon enough, Anyway, this is my night, my time, so… time to make love!”

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I grasped one of Eri’s hands, and our fingers interlaced. My other hand guided my dick to her entrance, and her pussy slid open. There was a wince from Eri as I forced open her unusually tight hole, and she bit down on her lip, her facial expressions the same, on a different face, which was fascinating. My cock pushed against the obstruction, and she cried out.

“Take it, ravage me! I give my virginity to you yet again!” She cried words that made no logical sense, but I felt a hymen tear, and blood scattered onto the sheets as I forced open her body, which in this form had never known a man. I licked her lips, and her mouth opened, tongue out, which I sucked on until she relaxed, flicking at her nipples, stroking her belly and touching her small, tight ass with my free hand.

“I’m fine now.” Eri smiled, touching her slender belly. “I suppose it’s not quite the same, but now this is the third time you’ve taken my virginity. I’m in the lead!”

I laughed happily, enjoying her relaxed banter. “True. Las Vegas, then the Boundary due to your Astral Body not having been fully deflowered. And now this.”

“And we can do it over and over again. Until you get bored of the novelty.” Eri clamped her lower body, pussy squeezing me, the insides different. “It’ll be hard though. You don’t know where my sensitive spots are, so you’ll have to learn again and again!”

“I’ll never get bored.” I promised. “And learning more about you… even if you change, is something I’m happy I get to do. Because… I see you as you, no matter what you look like, no matter how you change, you’re still Mori Eri. No. Oshiro Eri!”

“I know.” Her pink eyes were serious. “Just as … despite how you’ve changed, and you worry that you’ve become someone hard, selfish and cold… I know that you are always thinking of me, of us, and will do everything to make us happy. Now… I want you to love me in the truest sense!”

With a smile as my answer, I started moving. It was tough at first, her smaller body being forced open by my cock, and Eri groaned, though her groans soon became moans. I sucked at her breasts, eagerly working the nipples, and my free hand poked and prodded at her ass. Eri yelped as my finger circled her asshole, and she looked at me with curiosity. “I heard you did that with Shiro and Shaeula. Are you… ugh…into that?”

As I continued to slowly piston, her unfamiliar body now responding to her lust, love nectar foaming, the traces of blood also helping to lubricate us, I grinned. Eri’s easy to get wet no matter what form she’s in. Too easy, sometimes. “I don’t hate it. Anything I do with you girls is sexy and fun, but it’s hard work, so… not today. I just want to tease you, see you melt!”

“I am… melting… ahn, I assure… uh… you!” Eri gasped as my dick pushed into her. “I’m… smaller, so… you’re going deeper than ever, and … uh ahn… it feels so different!”

Biting on her nipple, wringing more pleasured groans from her, I tried to shift the angle of thrust, but it was hard as she was so tight, so I swept her up into the sitting position, and as she clung to me, fingers tight in mine, I continued to pound her, sopping slapping of my body against hers mingling with the hot sound of wet kisses and deep gasps. I groped her ass, sliding a finger in just a little, amused at how much she tightened up each time I did so, and as love nectar, precum and traces of blood foamed up and splashed onto the bed, Eri’s body was turning as pink as her new eyes and hair.

“I can… feel it coming!” Eri moaned, and I felt it too, the suction and clamping of her pussy delightful. My hand slid down her ass and to her pussy, polishing the bright bean with love nectar, and she shivered, her ecstasy rising. “I… ahn… ahn…. uh… want it. I want you!”

I want you too. I’m selfish, but… a ruler has to be selfish. I don’t want anyone to have to sacrifice, but even I’m not a God. All I have to do is make sure any sacrifices lead to greater joys, and I win. We win! It seemed I was going to explode, the unfamiliar body of Eri stoking my desires, so I sped up my hand, my mouth roaming over Eri’s body, kissing her forehead, lips, cheeks, neck, breasts, belly and finally her clit, sucking on the engorged bean even as I polished it, and her peak was suddenly in line with my own. Eri was gasping and gaping, looking comical, drool trickling down her chin, so I moved and licked it off, kissing her, delighting in her joy, and as I felt a hot lump rising, my balls aching, eager to release my love into Eri, as I traced my tongue along to her ear, before whispering a few passionate words.

“I love you Eri. And I’m truly looking at you.” As her eyes widened in understanding, I continued. “No matter what, we’ll always be together, because now… we see each other for who we are, not who we remembered each other to be!”

“I… love… you!” Eri cried, smaller body convulsing hard, and for the first time in a while, perhaps because she was in a smaller body, she pissed herself from pleasure, liquid soaking the bed beneath us. Poor maids. Oh well, It’s why we pay big money I guess? Maybe Eri had too much to drink?

“I love you too!” was my only answer, as my second orgasm of the night erupted, cum pouring into Eri, seeking to fight against her flow. It was turning into a spectacular mess, but Eri was smiling brilliantly as she orgasmed repeatedly, and as I watched her fondly I remembered her original lewd appearance, one I knew well, and it seemed to overlap with her current one, and as they did so, I somehow came again, flooding Eri. Her womb shuddered, gulping down, and Eri too squealed, shaking from too much pleasure. We tumbled to the bed, me managing a few more thrusts into Eri’s squeezing, shuddering and sensitive body, emptying myself out entirely, and as we lay there, Eri using my larger body as a pillow, the sensation of soaked, messy sheets and clothes unpleasant, we exchanged some slow, gentle kisses.

“Thanks, Eri. For being here. And for being you.”

“It’s fine.” Eri managed after a moment. “I can only be me. I just want to be the best me I can be. And with you… that’s possible. Because I want to be better for you. And not just you. I hate to admit it… but Shaeula was right. I need competition, pushing. Otherwise…” Her pink hair was tickling me, as she gazed into my eyes seriously. “I’d have stayed a selfish, needy girl forever. And you’d have either abandoned me or resented me, and…” I would utterly hate it if that happened. I could accept you finding someone you liked more, though it would have hurt me. But if I was the cause of driving you away, the cause of your pain…

What the hell? My eyes widened, and moments later, so did Eri’s, the unfamiliar pink not disguising the personality I was used to seeing.

“What… was that? I heard…” you saying something in my head? Just like Haru-san? And…

“Yes. I hear you too, and also…” Narrowing my eyes, I looked at Eri. I could feel her, a small lake of aether, with faint traces of adherence mixed in. Perplexed, determined to work out what had happened, I unleashed my Eye, and as I did so, Eri shivered, and what I saw surprised me…