On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

Arriving at the site of our new factory, which also had an annex for the Ministry for Spiritual Matters to conduct tests on aether, as part of our agreement, I couldn’t help but nod in satisfaction. The ether density was significantly elevated, likely helped by the Rank 3 Boundary to Material Connection, as well as the numerous and growing numbers of artificial ones made by Ixitt’s Mortal Engineers. That gave us numerous benefits, and coupled with the powers of Ling and Ginneka, we could perform Boundary-style feats here. As evidenced by the swift progress on construction. I hear the underground tunnels linking here, Shirohebizumi and our new estate are coming along far faster than expected…

The scaffold and foundations for a number of large buildings were already erected, and workmen were swarming over them. The cost was significant, but money wasn’t exactly an issue, as we had reserves, coupled with the loans Barclays and Chase Midas Gold had advanced us, as well as support from Fukumoto Kenji, owner of the Nichibotsu group, so burning money to hire astronomical amounts of workers to get things done was viable. Besides, if we spend a few billion yen here or there, Ixitt’s convinced our products will make the money back and more in no time. He’s not alone in that, Shiro even joked we should forget being Chosen and just go into the battery business…

Of course, it wasn’t just batteries and power generation, or even weapons and military inventions, as part of my agreement with Mayumi-san and Ichijou house. Once our facilities were running, and recycling Japan’s garbage and waste into valuable materials, we would have endless opportunities to expand. I know we’ve been buying up more land around here, ready for additional factories. Power, Water, Food and Security. We want to make sure that all of those we can provide, in case disaster strikes. And of course it’ll be wildly profitable too…

As I prepared to enter the site, I spotted a somewhat familiar face. I hadn’t spoken to her, really, just nodded at her in passing as she was hanging around Shirohebizumi, but being as she was Hashimoto Noboru-san’s daughter, I hadn’t minded her presence. She was wearing her usual heavy makeup, her hair bleached, but her clothing was an unflattering yellow hard-hat on her head, and thick black overalls, though her one concession to fashion was a pink scarf around her neck. On seeing me, she froze for a moment, looking unsure.

“Hi, you’re Sana-san, right?” I said, breaking the ice, and she swallowed nervously, before breaking out into a smile.

“So you remember me. I’m like totes honoured. Oh… err, sorry, I’m very honoured.” She corrected her language, which made me chuckle.

“No need to be formal. I’m not someone who you need to fawn over.”

“Err, ya sure about that?” Sana-san looked at me cautiously, before breaking into a smile. “Well, you’re the boss, literally, ya feel me?” She giggled. “Besides, I owe ya for getting my dad out of his slump. So… uh…” She fidgeted nervously, and I guessed what was wrong.

“It’s fine. If you’re working here, I don’t mind. While I don’t exactly approve of those still at school working, studying is important, I’m also not thinking it’s wrong getting in on the ground floor early. And considering Hinata and Kana, it’d be hypocritical to complain. Do well and you might get promoted, maybe you could even be your dad’s boss.” I joked, and she shook her head.

“No, it’s… like, not that, though… sure, I’m relieved. Though Karen-chan did say there’d be no issues. Uh… can I like… have a selfie with ya? I want to show off at school, and… well, the bitch who lives with me…”

She went on to explain the wager she had with her stepsister, who she really didn’t get on with. I felt annoyed when Sana-san’s mother didn’t support her, but interfering wasn’t for me to do. Although they say the best revenge is becoming successful. “Sure, you can have a selfie, but… be careful. Please don’t show it carelessly. You’ve had Chirurgery then, right?” As she nodded, I continued, warning her. “So you might be able to handle ordinary thugs, but… being connected to us could bring danger. So be wise and don’t brag. As for your stepsister… I’m afraid I don’t have the time to help you on that one, but… I’m like Shaeula, I believe firmly in oaths, wagers and promises. So… she’ll help you resolve it, I’d imagine. The day of the concert, I bet you’re going, right?”

Sana-san nodded. “Yeah, I’m totes looking forward to it. I’ve got good tickets, and I’ll get to hang out with your women. I still can’t believe you took all them cuties for yourself, ya feel me?” She giggled then, waving a hand. “I’ll send ya a picture. She’ll look a damn fright, stuck up bitch. She should be damn grateful I ain’t as vengeful as she is. Calling me a slut…” She suddenly paused, realising who she was grumbling to, and I could see her flush, even under her heavy makeup. “Uh, never mind that. I’m on the clock. So, ya here to see Kana-chan, right? Lucky her! Anyway, like, praise her properly, ya get me? She’s been working herself hard to get you to smile.”

“Don’t worry.” I nodded. “I’ll never forget her contribution, but even without that, I smile when I see her.” Of course I do. Kana’s that ordinary yet special girl who really knows how to make a guy feel good. She’s always fun.

“Woah, I’m jealous. Oh well…” Sana-san grinned then. “It’s not like I can’t catch a good guy, ya just wait and see. I have a steady job with prospects and I ain’t even left school yet. Though… having to stay in dad’s shitty apartment really sucks. When’s the new building going to open?”

“Soon.” I laughed, remembering the other construction project, this one under Kenji-san’s auspices, my grandfather-in-law making sure that a number of massive apartment blocks were being constructed, though a lot of the materials were provided by our Mortal Engineers, so that they could be taller, more spacious and aesthetically pleasing than the usual Tokyo high-rises. “It’ll be worth the wait, I promise.” Internal power generation provided by Ixitt’s crafts, a hydroponics floor and indoor parks and rivers, internal shopping mall… basically a mini village all in one. And with stronger, aether-reinforced materials… it should stand up to disasters, as well as being set in a garden of great beauty, to fulfil my promises to Asha and Primal Forest…

“I wouldn’t doubt ya, boss!” she promised. “Anyway, better get going, I’ve taken up your time, sorry about that.”

“Not a problem.” I smiled, relaxed. In the Boundary, now I had been restored by Akai’s feather, I was recovering as much of my strength as possible, which took very little of my concentration, so I was following the advice of Asha and the others and resting in preparation for my trip abroad. At least I’ll be able to save a dozen or so hours from the original plans…

As we walked into one of the buildings, we descended in a lift to the cavernous underground section. It was divided into numerous massive caves, and some of them were starting to be filled with shining lamps and production-line machinery in preparation for launch. There were thousands of human workers bustling about, as well as stranger sights, such as weaselkin and ratkin barking orders or studying schematics. Wagons of construction materials were being brought in, a mixture of standard materials such as steel girders, bricks, spools of wire and much more, but in some I could detect the presence of aether, likely some of the stable alloys and crafts the Mortal Engineers had devised.

“Most of the really wild stuff goes on where Kana-chan is.” Sana-san said to me, expression proud. “Not that I go down there much, I’m not exactly an asset. Totes feels bad, but I still help out. I’m like an odd-job girl and liaison. If Kana-chan or the big guys need anything, I make sure they get it.”

“It’s all work experience.” I agreed. Sana-san then waved at someone.

“Oh, it’s Ixitt. Over here, over here! The boss is visiting!” She yelled over the noise of the machinery, and he scurried over, in his human form, his multiple pockets bulging with useless devices and trinkets, a huge backpack slung over one shoulder. On seeing us, he grinned.

“I see you, Akio, and also Sana. What a pleasant surprise. Here to check on progress? Or more just to see Kana? She will be rather pleased indeed. Her labours have helped us to advance far ahead of even my schedule. Grulgor’s too. He is wasted in battle, he should take up a promising career in construction.”

It had been a while since I had fully assessed Ixitt, as getting our cross-Boundary projects up and running was of vital importance to consolidate my hold on Japan, so I let my Eye shine, feeling that it was on the verge of a breakthrough, the orange glow dazzling. Soon. I’m curious to see what I can divine when it’s genuinely passed the first bottleneck, not just temporarily elevated by Shiro’s buffs.

Ixitt Raethe

Fae

Flame, Earth and Light Aspect

[Material Statistics]

[Intangible Statistics]

Might

171 216 +15

Fortune

7 9 +0

Fortitude

172 221 +15

Majesty

2 4+0

Intellect

481 602 +15

Charm

2 +0

Resilience

294 364 +15

League

6 10 +0

Alacrity

254 299 +15

Determination

12 17 +0

Precision

249 301 +15

Foresight

5 +0

Aether

1067 1511 +15

Fate

2 4+0

[Material Skills]

Rank

Class

Type

[Aetheric Skills]

Silver Cord

Rank 3 Rank 4

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Eight Moons Chakra Network

Rank 4

Noble (5)

Rule (5)

Aether Manipulation

Rank 3 Rank 5

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Aether Conversion

Rank 2 Rank 4

Powerful (4)

Principle (7)

Split Thoughts

Rank 2

Noble (5)

Foundation (4)

[Elemental Skills]

Light Manipulation

Rank 4

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Third Eye Chakra Of Light

Rank 2

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Earth Manipulation

Rank 4

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Root Chakra Of Earth

Rank 3

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Flame Manipulation

Rank 4 Rank 6

Powerful (4) Noble (5)

Foundation (4)

Solar Plexus Chakra Of Flame

Rank 2 Rank 4

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Lunar Chakra Of Flame, Earth and Light

Rank 2

Noble (5)

Rule (5)

[Practical Skills]

 Ether Crafting

Rank 7 Rank 8

Noble (5)

Rule (5)

Dvergr Techniques

Rank 4 Rank 5

Noble (5)

Rule (5)

Alchemy

Rank 6

Noble (5)

Foundation (4)

Faecraft

Rank 6 Rank 8

Noble (5)

Foundation (4) Rule (5)

Mortal Engineering

Rank 6 Rank 8

Noble (5)

Rule (5)

Calculative Predictions

Rank 1 Rank 4

Powerful (4)

Artifice (6)

[Physical Combat Skills]

Spatial Perception

Rank 1 Rank 3

Powerful (4)

Rule (5)

Firearms Technique

Rank 2 Rank 4

Cantrip (1)

Simple (1)

[Level]

15/15 17/17

[Class]

Master of Many Crafts 18/20

Technomancer 4/20 12/20

Flame Fae 3/10

Great Flame, Earth and Light Fae 4/20

Boundary-Crafter 4/10

[Mastered Class]

Fae-Crafter 10/10

Master Of Many Crafts 20/20

Flame and Light Fae 10/10

“You’ve certainly been working hard.” I observed, and Ixitt cackled cheerfully.

“Indeed, no more am I a mere ratkin, looked down upon and despised, now I have risen to the heady rank of a Fae who has transcended myself three times.” He paused then. “Though while I would certainly praise my boundless spirit of inquisition and thirst for knowledge, I have been assisted greatly by Chiaki and Chiasa, as well as those who have already learned of the mortal world. The internet and textbooks are a wonderful thing as well. It is a shame I have not yet truly mastered the spatial element. Even with discussing with Arisu and my fellow enthusiasts over the internet, I have not seized true meaning.”

“But you’ve done light and earth elements…” I pointed out, and he nodded happily.

“Of course. Light is the foundation of much of Earth’s modern science and technology, as well as giving me some combat strength for emergencies. I understand lasers well enough. As for earth… I had considered other options for my third gain, and it is difficult to synergise with flame, but… for this project, earth element is best.”

Sana-san was listening patiently, and despite her young age and overly flashy appearance, I realised she was an earnest girl. I guess Noboru-san was worrying for nothing. Looks to me like Sana-san is on the right path…

“Yeah, I can see why. Earth is also useful for understanding a lot of the materials in crafting, right? But metal element would be better. Shame nobody’s worked that out, other than…” Well, Shungbō’s done now, and won’t be coming back… though there is now an opening in the Four Directions… “I notice you’ve mastered Split Thoughts?”

Ixitt nodded. “I have a postulation on that. Just as the princess woke her Befuddling Winds, and you have shared her Skills, I believe the Throne is a connection which aids us. Through it, I have come to understand this greatly helpful technique. Perhaps you have gained from me as well, no?” He narrowed his eyes, and I nodded.

“Yeah, I understood your Calculative Predictions recently. It’s definitely a good thing. One last question…” My Eye shone again, and I examined his new Class.

Boundary-Crafter is a Class focussing on crafting items and equipment that persists across realms or can exist in multiple at once. Ability to craft with physical techniques, Aether, Elemental energies, Adherence, Qi, ????????? and other forms of energy is enhanced, and created crafts are more stable in realms other than their own. Intellect and Precision increase as this Class grows.

“I would have thought I’d have that Class too. Perhaps I’ve not done enough yet?”

“I would hardly be concerned.” Ixitt reassured me. “It is true that I have been focussing on your goals to turn Fae crafts into a source of mortal power. I have experimented many, many times and made alloys and items that persist, even without the aid of Ginneka. You have made a mere handful, treasures though they are.”

“Yeah, don’t be down.” Sana-san piped up. “We all have different things we’re good at, don’t we? You’re totes going to crack it, I’m sure!”

“Yeah, I guess so.” It just would be really helpful in making something like the Tengoku-seki, or the remaining weapons for Motoko and Natsuki. But they’re both right. “I have to say, you’re really a genius though, all your Crafting Skills have soared.”

“True, although I feel I have peaked unless I reach some greater breakthrough. Perhaps spatial element is what I need to surpass my new limits. But surpass them I shall. Before you overtake me.” He grinned, and I couldn’t help but smile back.

“Even with the same Skills, I imagine I’ll not have your ingenuity.” I promised. He’s reaching the Rank eight to Rank nine wall. Breaking it isn’t easy, but if he does his potential will skyrocket. “Anyway, I’m here to see Kana.”

“Of course, I noticed she was rather more proactive than usual today. Not that she ever slacks off. But knowing you are watching…” His grin was sly. “My daughters are the same. How are they settling in? My Quaela must surely be catching your eye?”

Listening to Ixitt extol his daughters to me, Sana-san laughing and joking about me taking advantage of the servants, we descended further, reaching an expansive tunnel. Hopping onto a small flatbed vehicle, we were driven down the tunnel, the overhead lights flickering. As we were ferried to our destination, I could see a significant number of Artificial Boundary to Material Connections, and feel the ether density increasing as we reached our destination. Though I can hear it first…

The sounds of heavy construction rang in the confines of the tunnel, and as we approached, we could see that a number of colossal Giants were labouring away with massive hammers, pickaxes and even mechanical drills. Others, such as various white snakes, as well as Trolls, were carting the excavated materials away, though more was being ferried to the walls, where a strange liquid shimmer rippled through them, and in addition to the swallowed rubble, metal bars filled with aether were being sucked in too.

“There’s Kana-chan.” Sana-san said cheerfully, honking the bullhorn the vehicle had, and as the workers turned to see us, Kana was smiling broadly, though she glanced down at herself and bit her lip. Don’t worry, I think your hard work is sexy, I won’t like you less because you’re wearing dowdy work overalls. Before she could speak though, Grulgor called out, still half-melded into the walls, dripping strange liquids, and also covered in rocky protrusions that melted like pitch.

“You have come. Good. Grul wants to show off the fruits of his training!” He rumbled a laugh. “Battle is not the only way to build strength. Grulgor has learned well!”

My Eye shone, and I nodded. You certainly have.

Grulgor

Noble Fae

Earth And Water Aspect

[Material Statistics]

[Intangible Statistics]

Might

941 1030+15

Fortune

2+0

Fortitude

788 876 +15

Majesty

2 4 +0

Intellect

130 160 +15

Charm

1 3 +0

Resilience

255 305 +15

League

8 12 +0

Alacrity

259 289 +15

Determination

6 12 +0

Precision

500 533 +15

Foresight

Aether

1031 1362 +15

Fate

       [Material Skills]

Rank

Class

Type

[Aetheric Skills]

Silver Cord

Rank 3 Rank 4

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Eight Moons Chakra Network

Rank 5

Noble (5)

Rule (5)

Aether Manipulation

Rank 2 Rank 3

Sufficient (3)

Foundation (4)

Troll Body Of Stone

Rank 5 Rank 6

Powerful (4) Noble (5)

Foundation (4) Rule (5)

Troll Body Of Slime

Rank 8

Noble (5)

Rule (5)

[Elemental Skills]

Water Manipulation

Rank 2 Rank 4

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Sacral Chakra Of Water

Rank 2 Rank 4

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Earth Manipulation

Rank 4 Rank 5

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Root Chakra Of Earth

Rank 6

Noble (5)

Foundation (4)

Lunar Chakra Of Water and Earth

Rank 2 Rank 3

Noble (5)

Rule (5)

[Physical Combat Skills]

Mace Technique

Rank 3

Cantrip (1)

Simple (1)

Throwing Technique

Rank 2

Cantrip (1)

Simple (1)

[Unique Skills]

Might Of The Furious Earth

Rank 4 Rank 5

Noble (5)

Foundation (4)

Grace Of The Raging Waters

Rank 1 Rank 3

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Stone Absorption

Rank 3 Rank 5

Noble (5)

Rule (5)

Water Absorption

Rank 1 Rank 4

Powerful (4) Noble (5)

Rule (5)

[Level]

17/17

[Class]

Great Earth And Water Fae 15/20

True Earth And Water Fae 3/30

[Mastered Class]

Earth Fae 10/10

Great Earth And Water Fae 20/20

      “Grul is the stone and water, and stone and water is Grulgor!” He declared boastfully, which seemed apt considering he was fused with both. “Taking them in I grow stronger, understand better. Grul is no longer a fool.” One of the Giants barked a laugh, only to shut up as Grulgor glared at him.

It was then Kana approached, after having taken a moment to remove the least flattering of her protective gear, smooth out her hair and brush the dust from her skin. Smiling broadly, she nodded at Ixitt and Sana-san, before hopping up next to me and giving me a hug, as well as a kiss on the cheek.

“That’s it?” I teased, and she narrowed her dark brown eyes, before kissing me again, this time on the lips. I resisted the urge to tease her further, contenting myself with that.

“So, you finally came down here?” Kana paused, before turning to the workers. “Back to work! Grul, I’ll be back to help in a minute, you can manage without me, can’t you?”

“Grul understands.” The Troll laughed. “You want to spend a little time with him. Grulgor says the tunnel is growing. A little will not hurt.”

“I can hardly fathom how Grulgor became so reasonable.” Ixitt marvelled. “Back in the day, he was one of Duke Formor’s most loyal brutes, only thinking of violence and destruction.”

“Back in the day? Wasn’t it only a few months ago?” I teased. “And… it seems he still thinks of this as a way to train for battle. And it is. His grasp on water and earth has spiked, and I daresay his Absorption Skills can be used to brutal effect in combat.”

“I’ve learnt a few things too.” Kana leaned against me happily. Sana-san giggled softly, looking away, and Kana rolled her eyes. “Oh you. You’d think a flashy gyaru would be less shy, more pushy.”

“Hey, I like the look, I’m totes not a loose woman!” Sana-san protested, though there was no heat in it. “Uh, so… that snake over there is the Kami, right? An honest-to-goodness God? Makes my mind go blank, ya know. Dad’s seriously working in a crazy place.”

Shirohebi

Kami Of The White Snake Shrine

Adherent Of Tsukuyomi

[Material Statistics]

[Intangible Statistics]

Might

80 190 +15

Fortune

5 10 +0

Fortitude

120 221 +15

Majesty

3 8+0

Intellect

145 250 +15

Charm

3 +0

Resilience

160 305+15

League

10 13 +0

Alacrity

142 240 +15

Determination

2 +0

Precision

101 200 +15

Foresight

2 7 +0

Aether

640 1105 +15

Fate

5 10+0

[Material Skills]

 Rank

Class

Type

[Aetheric Skills]

Silver Cord

Rank 1 Rank 2

Sufficient (3)

Foundation (4)

Divine Star Chakra Network

Rank 2 Rank 3

Powerful (4)

Principle (7)

Divine Spark

Rank 1 Rank 2

Noble (5)

Law (8)

Adherence Manipulation

Rank 1 Rank 2

Noble (5)

Law (8)

Aether Manipulation

Rank 2 Rank 3

Sufficient (3)

Foundation (4)

[Elemental Skills]

Earth Manipulation

Rank 4 Rank 5

Powerful (4)

Foundation (4)

Root Chakra Of Earth

Rank 4 Rank 6

Noble (5)

Foundation (4)

[Intangible Skills]

[Unique Skills]

White Snake Domain Of Earth

Rank 2 Rank 3

Powerful (4)

Law (8)

Subordinate Kami

Rank 1

Sufficient (3)

Law (8)

[Level]

0/15 17/17

[Class]

Recovering Divine Being 2/10

Tsukuyomi’s Subordinate 1/10

“Well, I see that you’re putting Shirohebi to work here. How does it feel, getting to order around your Kami?” I teased, and Kana kissed me on the lips again, only a little flushed that others were watching.

“Honestly, it feels amazing.” Kana giggled when we parted, idly touching her damp lips. “Not that they’re a Kami, honestly that doesn’t seem so special. Shaeula, Hyacinth and Asha feel more divine, you know? But because I always used to hate being a shrine maiden, I just wanted to get away, be someone else, live a happy life, but mom and my father would never let me. Grandfather was worse, he gives his everything to Shirohebizumi shrine. And all for such a rundown dump…”

“Whoa, you totes have difficulties too, who’d have guessed? But you’re beautiful, Kana-chan.” Sana-san commiserated, and Kana shrugged.

“Maybe so, but all beauty is good for is catching a man. Not that I’m complaining, as I hooked a winner.” She teased me, as I continued to listen, while checking out the new facets of Shirohebi’s status.

Tsukuyomi’s Subordinate is a Class that a Subordinate Kami of Tsukuyomi will obtain. A Subordinate is a lesser Divine Being who possesses a Divine Spark, who pledges existence to a more powerful Divine ????????. League will strengthen, and they will take on intangible aspects of their patron. In Tsukuyomi’s case, Charm will increase, and Foresight and Fate will increase greatly. They may gain granted abilities as their Divine Spark burns hotter and brighter, becoming ??????????. As Tsukuyomi is far distant, any aid provided is not direct, but Tsukuyomi is an expert at transmitting will and aid through Boundaries, and so suffers less resistance from ????????????.

Recovering Divine Being is a Class gained when a being with a Divine Spark, long starved of Adherence, begins to recover. Ability to process and utilise Adherence improves, and any Flavours or Domains of Adherence they possess will strengthen. ???????? also strengthens.

I see. I guess the fact that Shirohebizumi shrine is the centre of our new efforts is bringing in prayers, and thus adherence for them. I expect that since I’m the Chosen of Tsukuyomi now and they follows me, that’s how they caught that God’s eyes? In any case, it’s a good thing, as Shirohebi isn’t physically powerful, and is limited in ability to Level. Still, so many question marks. I wonder if I’ll be able to pierce them when my Eye breaks through its bottleneck?

“I could have been a model, I’ve got the looks.” Kana glanced at me, smirking. “I always see Akio checking out my legs, and my chest’s not so bad either. Plus I’m beautiful. Though saying that with Shiro and now Tsukiko around always makes me feel a bit hollow.” she admitted, so I cheered her up.

“Yeah, they’re gorgeous, but so are you, and you’ll only get more charming as you grow stronger. I know it. But yeah, you’d definitely cut it as a model or a TV presenter. Maybe not an idol though…”

“You know me too well. I’m not a fan of hard work. At least not for no reason. And having seen what Suzu-chan goes through, and having talked to Tamami-chan and the others of Red and White… not for me.” Kana agreed. She yawned, rubbing at her eyes, and concerned, I offered her a little Ether Healing.

“That’s nice. My head feels a bit tense recently, I’ve been getting very tired eyes. I’m not used to such hard work. You’ll get like that too, Sana-chan.” Kana promised. “Just ask Miyu-chan if you see her. She’ll tell you that Akio works us until we drop!”

“That’s the rich girl, right? She’s like the daughter of a real bigshot, there’s totes no way a girl like me could go anywhere near her, ya feel me?” Sana-san shook her head, scared of the thought.

“Honestly I thought the same. But she’s not so bad. Sure, some of the new trainees are stuck-up snobs, but they soon get whipped into shape. Hinata won’t let any bad attitudes stand, and with Motoko, Natsumi and Miyu-chan backing her up… so far it’s working. Oh that’s so much better. I feel all warm and tingly inside.” Kana stretched like a cat. “Anyway, much as I’d love to kiss and cuddle all evening, this is a workplace, right Ixitt?”

As the ratkin grinned in response, Kana gave me one last peck on the cheek and hopped down. “Might as well fill you in on how it’s going. Honestly… reckon we can get the basic tunnels connected before Akio gets back?”

Ixitt scratched at his cheek, pondering, before smiling toothily. “I believe so. After all, even my calculations and predictions have been exceeded.” Ixitt clapped his hands together and explained happily, while Sana-san commiserated with me with a wink.

“Initially we expected some difficulties. Ether density is far lower here than the Boundary, of course, and the Material resists the use of elements, though far less than it resists aether. Fortunately, we have a surfeit of earth wielders, being as Shirohebizumi is a very rich source of elemental earth, thanks to Asha and her Trees. There is also the benefit of those who are your allies that learn earth element can gain two of these Levels, with promises of more when the Earth Altar is upgraded.” He lectured us sagely, and Kana, Sana-san and I exchanged wry looks. I was curious though, so I guess it’s fine.

“Using earth element, we can strengthen and reinforce soil, rock and similar materials, and conversely weaken them. This allows us to both excavate and fortify at rates faster than mortal machinery can. We can use said machinery to further expedite this, so we believed we could finish in months rather than years or a decade. Time waits for none, not even us Fae. However… happy fortuitous circumstances, and the aid of Kana here and Grulgor, have changed our projections.”

“It’s thanks to you helping me gain Kṣitigarbha’s Favour, Akio.” Kana said modestly, before cracking a smile. “Although honestly, I am amazing, putting in the effort. Take heed, Sana-san. I was lazy, but when I started moving towards a goal I wanted…” She looked at me boldly, and again I found it hard to fathom how I had won the heart of such a girl. I was a bit of a bastard to her. But they do say girls like bad boys…

“He’s thinking something dumb.” Sana-san giggled, and Kana nodded, agreeing. I exchanged a glance with Ixitt, who shrugged.

“The mysteries of a female mind are not for us men to know.”

“That’d be more convincing if it didn’t come from someone with eight wives…” I complained, only for him to rebut me coolly.

“And how many will you have? Unlike Mortal Engineering and science, the mysteries of the heart are not understood through repetition and exposure. Now, shall we change the subject?”

I nodded, defeated. Obviously I had women on my mind, who I would have to at the very least have a decent discussion with. But there are way more important matters at hand. “Oh, Sana-san, were you on an errand? I hope I haven’t delayed you?”

“It’s fine. If I can’t guide the boss around, what can I do? Besides, I don’t have a lot to do, ya feel me? I’m an odd-job girl for now.”

“But you’re earning credit with people who matter. Like me!” Kana pounded her chest, praising herself. “Speaking of… Akio, while you’re here, why not watch me at work? Working girls are sexy, right?”

“Phrasing.” I laughed, and she stuck her tongue out at me playfully, before hopping down and striding over to the front of the tunnel. She struck up a conversation with Grulgor, who barked orders at the Trolls, Giants and white snakes, as well as the mortal workers using machinery and contributing earth element. Our Elemental Silos accumulate plenty in comparison to our other elements, due to Asha’s Tree running buffed the majority of the time, and Kana and Grulgor certainly have permission to tap it… no wonder we’re ahead of schedule, when coupled with the higher ether density… My Eye shone, and looking at the supporting workers, several of the Black Wolf Company mercenaries seemed to have stronger root Chakras than I would have expected. Professionals learn fast, and with plenty of elemental energies to burn…

“This tunnel is significantly deeper than the average Tokyo subways.” Ixitt pointed out. “When we cross various lines above us in the ground, we require extra reinforcement, but a task that should ordinarily take months and significant disruption can be achieved easily.” Ixitt continued explaining. “Since this is effectively a military tunnel, connecting the key locations of Shirohebizumi Shrine, the factory and Ministry, and your estate and the Tokyo bay, with potential plans to expand to other priority areas such as various military facilities and Azabu, to protect the key estates of the Fujiwara house and others, we have dug it down more than a hundred and fifty metres, and deeper in some key places of vulnerability. Of course, such would increase the difficulty ordinarily, but… ironically, it is actually easier for our needs, as the deeper tunnels allow more strengthening of the surrounding bedrock, and while we cross the water table in places… we have used that to construct a private aqueduct and reservoir, along with a purification facility, so that in disaster we have fresh water.”

The project has certainly expanded. Not that I’m complaining. Maximum security is our watchword now. As I listened, Kana was preparing, drawing on earth element, and Ixitt continued. “We also have power generation and storage, though I intend to install my new devices as soon as is practicable. In addition, we must secure access to air in these deep tunnels. That would be an extraordinary difficulty and expense, to say nothing of a potential weakness, but…” He grinned, pointing to several architects and surveyors looking at maps. “…it is a good time to see Kana and Grulgor in action.”

“I’ve not seen her work much.” Sana-san agreed. “It’ll be totes cool to see it up close!”

Kana, hearing us with her enhanced senses, waved at us, before speaking loudly over the din of digging and bellowing Giants and Trolls and the whine of drills. “So, this is the spot? One hundred and fifty-seven metres, but we have to align it at forty-six degrees for the last twenty-six metres to avoid existing infrastructure, right?”

“That’s correct, Izumi-sama.” One of the men pointed out respectfully. “You’ve managed before, but this is a steep shift, and if we get it wrong, the above sewerage and subway system will suffer damage.”

“Leave it to me. I have to look good right now. Bring it on!”

A large series of interlocking pipes were brought in, and with a smile, Kana pressed her hands on the solid rock wall. “In Kṣitigarbha’s name, flow!” Energy flashed crimson, and the wall rippled.

“Grul is one with the stone, one with the water.” He growled, and the rippling material shifted, Grulgor growing until he towered as high as the Giants, nearly the entire height of the colossal tunnel. His arms grabbed the pipes, and they were inserted like straws into milkshake, sinking into the gloopy stone. Kana wiped sweat from her brow, droplets of mud and rock bouncing off the hard hat she had worn again, and as I used my Eye I could see the pipes pushing through the stone like it was mud, and the inside was sucked clean of blockages.

Very impressive. I can see why this saves so much time…

“The locations for the ventilation shafts are classified and are all on government or allied properties. But even so, we have taken further precautions. One-way filters and devices that can be charged with wind element are also inserted, preventing poisoning or other harmful attacks.”

When the ventilation shaft was finished, taking only half an hour, they turned their attention to the rock ahead. That was somehow even more impressive, for as Kana liquified the earth and stone ahead again, it flowed into Grulgor, who grew colossal, filling the space. He them melded with the wall, and a surge of earth element glittered like a million red stars under the artificial lights. The rock ahead for many dozens of metres surged into the tunnel proper, the stone around it becoming dense and smooth, an occasional scaffold or set of metal bars inserted to secure areas that couldn’t simply be fortified with compressing stone via earth element.

“The calculations are challenging, but we have paid experts.” Ixitt grind. “Strengthen the bedrock itself, and apply a little help here and there with structural support, and we barely even have to dig. Though dig we do.” He grinned. “Some areas it is easier to have brute strength clear it. But as you can see…”

“Yeah, that was more than a hundred metres in… what… thirty minutes?” I agreed, impressed.

“I believe one hundred and forty-seven metres as per the plan. I would hardly believe Grulgor would ever understand such, but the world, both worlds, are never short of surprises.”

“No kidding.” Sana-san was a little awed, and looked at Kana jealously. “I totes wish I was a superhero. Guess I’m not good enough, makes sense. Who’d choose me?”

“Don’t be like that.” Kana came back, mopping her sweat, and took a drink from the vehicle. “I wasn’t either.” She rubbed her eyes, her face a little pale. “Damn, I need this. It’s thirsty work, and we still have a dozen more sections to do today. Good job I don’t need as much sleep as I used to. But the harder I work, the quicker it’s done. Hinata promised me once Shirohebizumi, the estate and the factory area are complete, the rest can be done slower.” She then looked at Sana-san earnestly. “I wasn’t chosen either. And it’s not all fun and games. But everyone has their own part to play. Karen-chan, Hayato-san and the others, even your father, Sana-chan, they all do their part. Do we look down on them because they can’t do what I do, or Akio does?”

“No, I totes didn’t mean that. I’m not a bitch. Dad’s working hard now, harder than mom. I just… well, it’s a tough world.” Sana-san said lamely, embarrassed.

“It sure is.” Kana agreed. “But it’ll be tougher for our enemies. Just look at this place. And don’t worry, if we have to evacuate, I’m sure you and your dad are on the list, Sana-chan!”

As the girls bantered, me occasionally watching, I once more marvelled at the combinations power could provide. With Kana’s Earthen Womb and Grulgor’s Stone Absorption, together they are an order of magnitude more powerful that apart. It makes me wonder… why are the Gods so set on their Kodoku ritual when working together has such benefits? It can’t just be that there can only be one Astral Emperor, can it? Kana grabbed my arm, teasing me, begging for praise, and I cheerfully gave it, while considering the rest of my evening. I have to make sure Mae and Shinkume-no-Hana are settled in, spend some time with Eri and the others, and gather my strength properly after today’s exertions, but… Narrowing my eyes as I laughed at one of Kana’s jokes, I decided that tonight I would actually sleep for once. Maybe my dreams will tell me something. Seeing Shirohebi, that he’s now an adherent of Tsukuyomi… is it an omen, or am I reading too much into it?