On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

“I’m sorry to call you over when you’re so busy…” I spoke to Haru, who merely rolled her eyes at my regular apologies. “…especially when the Pilgrimage is in full swing. But this is going to be more complicated than I imagined…” I glanced over ay Hyacinth, who nodded firmly, though it was Tan who spoke from within Shiro.

“Yes. Arrogance is poison.” Her words were harsh, but her tone was calm and not critical. “It is a common conceit. One has… unexpected… successes, and they start believing in their own infallibility. Many powerful beings have discovered the multiverse does not revolve around their whims, they are not unique, not special. And that way lies regrets, do they survive to regret it. So… do not rush ahead recklessly. The princess would grieve were you to strangle yourself with your own hubris.”

“You’re right.” I nodded. “But that’s the beauty of this.” I smiled at Hyacinth, which made her blush and fidget bashfully, even if she still had a serious expression on her face, her silver-violet eyes intense. “I’m not alone, so… you can all keep me grounded, and I’ll support you all in turn.” I finished, only for Shiro to snort loudly, speaking up.

“Don’t mind Tan, her criticism isn’t as harsh as it sounds. Shit, besides, Tan finds the way you rush ahead fascinating, and is eagerly awaiting what you do…” Her voice was silenced as Tan exerted control. Shiro’s black eye slid into a wink, and I decided to ignore that for now, my attention back on Haru.

“Anyway… when the Pilgrimage is over, at least you might get a break. Spend some time with your father, go out with your friends, just cut loose and have some fun…” I suggested, and once more she rolled her eyes, as if she didn’t believe me. Which I suppose is fair. Haru’s workload is second only to mine, and she can’t use two bodies at once…

“I’ll believe that when I see it, Akio. It’s lucky I’m already dead, or you’d put me in my grave with all this work. But… at least it’s not just me. Arisugawa-san is stressed too…” Indeed, she was overseeing the gathering of spatial element from the migration of the Seelie Court, but also had several broadcasts for WTV scheduled for today, in addition to the various stops of the Pilgrimage.

“…and not just her. But…” Haru shrugged. “I suppose having you owe me a favour or ten isn’t without its merits. After all…” She winked at Yukiko. “…the way the public are talking, you might well be husband to the next Empress of Japan.”

“My older brother was such an idiot.” Yukiko seemed sad. “But… tradition is important. Besides, I’m not cut out for such a position. Though… no, never mind.”

“Well, we’re getting off the subject.” I turned my attention back to Aine within her prison of crystal and dark adherence. “This isn’t likely to be trivial, and… I don’t much like your proposed solution, Hyacinth. Though… I do bow to your expertise.” I simply don’t think that pain will be enough. After all… the Woe here is brutal. Enough to help ruin a species, or at least a fair part of it. Even if I can do what I hope and disentangle the other strands of flavoured adherence which is being drawn in… oh well…I guess we’ll see soon…

It certainly wasn’t as easy as I had originally imagined. Because it wasn’t just Aine. I was confident I could protect her from the Woe, wake her, but… the Woe isn’t just cantered on her.

“Anyway, for the rest of you… carry on with Pilgrimage, Hyacinth, Haru and I will catch up later.”

“More unreasonable schedules…” Haru whistled in slight annoyance. “I’ll have Karen-chan arrange for the shrines to remain open through the night. I know it’s not unusual for us staffers to have to pull all-nighters, but… oh well, at least I don’t need any sleep…”

“I promise I’ll make it up to you!” I insisted, though Haru’s complaints were certainly more teasing than bitter. “Anyway, as a programmer, I’m used to crunch myself, to get a job done. The problem is… jobs keep cropping up all the time.”

Wanderer seemed a little ashamed, but I waved a hand, dismissing his complaints. “Don’t worry about it. I’m sure she… damn, it’s hard not saying her name. Is it a cultural thing, or… a safety thing, like with Nebisuki and Mae?” I referred to Shinkume-no-Hana by her assumed name in company, though there was no real need, as it would take someone with greater strength than me knowing her true name to wrest her from my grip, and… my strength with bonds wasn’t trivial either. “…would be happy you would go so far for her. And I do sympathise and am happy to help.”

Wanderer shook his head slowly. “We are simply… no longer truth. It is known that only the true descendants of the First Goblin deserve to have true names. So… her name… do you know it?” He seemed curious, and I nodded.

“I do. I won’t say it until she wakes up, though. After all, we should welcome her back properly, shouldn’t we?”

At my words, the Goblin’s yellow eyes widened, and the High Kobold behind him snorted, amused. Several of the girls around us were also moved by my words, Hyacinth included.

“Yes. It will nooot be as traumatic as when I was freed frooom the box, I hope. But… she has slept long. Toooooo long.”

“As for the rest of you…” I addressed the crowd. “…follow the Pilgrimage route as planned, do what training you can, and reconvene here tonight, while we can take advantage of still being in the Tokyo area.”

“We will!” Natsumi insisted. “Motoko and I won’t fail! We’ll prove worthy of the Favours, and then we’ll make their powers our own, improve on them!”

“That is correct.” Motoko agreed. “We do not know defeat, not in this. We will disadvantage you no longer!”

Unable to resist their high spirits and determination, I went and hugged them both. That led to everyone else demanding hugs, and at the end I raised one eyebrow, as Eleanor, face pink, was at the end of the queue, though Shaeula was standing behind her, not having had her turn yet, urging her forwards.

“I suppose… I should get used to physical contact. Considering.” Her words were a little quiet, and I found the contrast with her usual forthright nature rather cute.

“It’s all right. There’s no pressure, if you don’t want to…” I began reasonably, but she cut me off, seeming irritated.

“Who says I don’t want to? I asked you to marry me… not officially yet, I suppose, but grandmother has plans… oh, I’m not supposed to talk about such.”

Yeah, I get a feeling that New Years’ Honours is going to be both interesting and stressful, with a lot of surprises. Eleanor’s grandmother, the Queen, had a wicked sense of humour and seemed to dote on Eleanor, and having seen Yukiko’s grand announcement, she likely wouldn’t hold back.

“Even so, you shouldn’t push your boundaries unnecessarily.” I offered, and her blue eyes sparkled with irritation.

“Oh, so am I not desirable enough to hug?”

“Hardly. Though… you are in armour, so it robs the experience of its full appeal.” I joked, deepening her flush.

“I suppose it would. But… perhaps that’s for the best. I am, in fact, quite shy.” She opened her arms, and I embraced her, smelling the scent of her hair, which with my enhanced senses, was subtly different to Japanese women. I could also smell the tang of copper and iron from her armour, as well as feel it, cold on my skin. But her hands, not wearing her gauntlets, were warm.

“I can see David looking and smirking in that annoying way of his…” Eleanor whispered in my ear, her breath hot on my cheek. “But… you two seem to get on surprisingly well. And… he predicted this. I hate it when he’s right.”

I nodded. “Yeah, he’s an argumentative bastard, sure, but… he’s got a good heart. And Motoko and Natsumi look up to him.”

“Worried?” Eleanor chuckled softly.

“Hardly.” I snorted. “I may be an unfairly jealous guy, considering… but when I love someone, I trust them. Besides, David might be quite cool, in his own way, but… I’m me. I believe I can hold a woman’s heart close.”

“Yes. It seems you can.” Eleanor agreed. Her expression was pensive, but not unkind. “I… never expected this. I… didn’t take to you when we first met, but… you are a dangerous man. Your deeds get stuck in the mind… and the heart. So… I’m not unhappy. Mortified, certainly. Embarrassed, for definite. But… this is oddly calming. Though… my heart is beating fast.”

“I can’t feel it, but I can hear it…” I chuckled, making her blush deepen. “So… want to go just a little further?”

She nodded softly, and I gently kissed her. Only on the cheek, but even so, that was enough, and she sagged against me in my grip, squeezing shut her eyes.

“I see. So this… is affection, is it? It’s not… terrible.” Eleanor said at last, before regaining her composure. “Sadly, we can’t take part in your Pilgrimage, being as we need to travel via your Gate, but… we’re welcome here tomorrow… no, tonight now, I guess, aren’t we?”

“You’re welcome any time.” I promised. “And Mary-Jane should be sure to attend, as… the next stage of her reformatting is planned.”

Eleanor nodded, a wry expression on her face, lips curved into a smile. “You don’t have to keep trying to win me over. I’ve already agreed…” She chuckled then. “No, I know you’d do it anyway, but… I understand well what the others mean. When I think you are doing it for me, it makes me happy. Who knew I was such an easy woman? Anyway…” She stared deep into my eyes. “I’ll still thank you. We British are like the Japanese in that respect. Manners are always important. Even… between family.”

I kissed her other cheek then, and she didn’t resist. “Don’t worry… when you see me next in person I won’t be wearing armour…” She then paused. “Oh, but you should release me. It’s Shaeula’s birthday, yes? And she’s waiting so patiently…”

“Do not-not mind me.” Shaeula chuckled. “I am not-not a female who can not-not read the mood. Though…”

“Yes.” Eleanor agreed. “I think I would prefer private displays of affection. I’m… not used to this.” She released her hug, stepping away from me, looking down and futilely attempting to straighten armour that didn’t need it, a distraction her mind needed.

“As Kana would-would say, savour the emotions, for in time-time, a different set shall take root.” Shaeula grasped my hand tightly, winking at me. “Yes, while I am-am slightly unhappy that you will be distracted by other matters, they are not-not matters that can be neglected. This Goblin… she should-should be saved, and the Goblins restored. After all-all… in the Seelie Court I wish to build, all-all who come without evil shall be welcomed, and none-none turned aside.”

Proud of her, I ruffled her hair playfully, and she giggled. “Fortunately, most-most of my plans were set up for Tokyo. Though tonight… the migration of the Court shall-shall complete. I would-would have a viewing party, to see the end of the grand spectacle. It is most-most captivating.”

“As are you. And don’t worry, my attention might be split, but it’s still all on you.”

At my flattering words, Shaeula smiled wickedly. “Flattery shall get-get you everywhere. If you are seeking my body once-once more, you are certainly going about matters in the right-right way!”

As Eleanor blushed at Shaeula’s forthright flirting, I recreated my Material body, before seeing off everyone, as they returned to the Material, in the early hours of the morning, ready for another packed day. Left behind was Haru, Hyacinth, Wanderer and the High Kobold. Don’t think I’ve forgotten you and the questions I have for you. But first…

Once more my Eyes shone, as I investigated the sleeping Aine. But first… how am I going to make sure that whatever price Hyacinth insists on paying is bearable, and… how do I even get her to pay it? Though… anything she can pay… well, I’m a modern gentleman. If she’s determined to help, I can’t spit on her resolve, but… as such a gentleman, shouldn’t I at least split the bill?

***

Shaeula Tu Shae Dannan, Tokyo

“This is quite-quite nice.” Yes, it is most excellent, indulging myself in these quieter moments, although… Calling the situation quiet did amuse me, as Akio was extremely frazzled, having to manage so many situations at once, and he was hardly the only one. Yes, Karen and Ichika are busy too, but for now… “I was most-most jealous of Eri and Daiyu, having you for an entire day-day. Now it is my turn. Although…” I paused meaningfully. “…soon-soon several others shall have their turn. Aiko’s birthday is early next-next year, no?”

“Yeah.” Akio nodded his head. He seemed tired, which worried me a little. His heroics always move me, but… I do worry he is taking on too much. Fortunately, he is not alone. Not ever again. “As she never fails to remind me. I have to do something major for her birthday. Then it seems there’s a birthday almost every other week…”

“Yours too.” I retorted. “Aiko has told-told me when yours is, since you did not-not mention it to me.”

“Blame Aiko for that. She always used to tease me that if my birthday was a day earlier, I’d have a lot more success with girls. Hey, at least I always had giri chocolate from my sis and Eri… though, looking back, certainly towards the end, it probably wasn’t obligation or friendship chocolate from Eri, was it?”

“No, not if I know Eri-chan.” Karen agreed. “Though it seems you like sweet things, don’t you Akio-kun? It’s amusing. Most guys would feel out of place eating parfait in a café like this, surrounded by women.”

He shrugged, and I watched him as he put a spoonful of whipped cream and chocolate in his mouth. We were all eating it too, and we were even washing it down with some ice-cold beers. Yes, the mortal world certainly has its perks. Though the Spring and the mansion are becoming more… habitable…

“If I don’t get used to spending time in places women like, I’ll never survive.”

“That’s true.” Karen agreed with him, though her brown eyes flickered towards the phone she had out on the table. My lips curled into a frown, and channelling a little wind energy, I sent her phone flying into my hand, which made her jump.

“There is no-no need for that. For the moment, I insist you enjoy yourselves, Karen, Ichika. Work can-can wait.”

Akio nodded, a wry smile on his handsome face. Ever since earlier, I found myself even more attracted to him. The essence of him that was partially Fae had deepened, and it made my spirit itch, and I had to resist the urge to push him down here and now and have my way with him. Realising my legs were twitching restlessly under the cute yukata I was wearing, I steeled myself. Later. Several times later, in fact. I had planned out the day perfectly. The plans had been somewhat disrupted, by the reveal of the First Goblin, but the majority of activities could and would still be enjoyed.

“Yeah. You’ve been working hard, and Haru really appreciates it.” Akio soothed. “You too, Ichika-san. How are you finding it, working with us? I hope it’s not too onerous?”

“It’s… hard but… I think it’s rewarding.” Ichika spoke up. Like Karen, she was in an expensive skirt suit, though Ichika did look a little overwhelmed by it, and somewhat out of place. It is not just her age. Ichika has issues believing in herself. But… I can fix that, and I shall.

“It doesn’t… really have much to do with my course at university, but… considering who I work for, I get given leave and credits. And I’m learning a lot…”

“Ichika-chan’s a hard worker.” Karen agreed. She was enjoying her beer but couldn’t help but glance at her phone in my hands. “Uh… can I have it back? Please? I’m still waiting on two calls, and… what if Arisugawa-san needs something?”

“No!” I insisted, slipping the phone into my small handbag I carried. “Arisu shall certainly manage, she is most-most competent.”

As Karen sighed, Ichika spoke up diffidently. “I… don’t really get why we are here? This is your birthday, Shaeula, don’t you want to spend time with Akio-san?” She glanced at him then. “Don’t you have a lot of competition?”

I could not help but laugh at that. When I finally controlled myself, I downed half my can of beer, wiping the foam from my mouth. “Competition? Yes, more-more than you know. The numbers increase apace. But is that not-not simply a reflection that I am with the most-most desirable male who exists? Besides, some of them are quite-quite amusing.” I winked at Akio, who knew I was talking of Eleanor. That hard-headed woman, who railed against Akio and his relationships so, had finally broken down and admitted what Eri and I had clearly seen long ago, that Akio’s actions had wormed their way into her heart. Just as it has with many of us. There is a certain amusement in seeing a hard-headed female crack and admit her feelings. Her shameful blushing and tears are adorable. I can hardly wait to take her to bed with Akio and show her the true pleasures of loving him.

“As for why-why you are here…” I continued. “Karen, Ichika, you were my first-first friends I made here in this mortal world. So I wish-wish to spend a little of my day with you. And with Akio too, of course-course.”

“That makes sense.” Karen nodded, glancing at Akio. “I remember the first time we met, I thought you were a young girl Akio had lured in with games and booze. I never would have imagined you were older than me, by a number of years.”

“Now-now…” I shook my head. “I am not-not old. All women are eighteen, are we not-not? I am no-no exception.”

Ichika let out a giggle. “Is that right? Honestly… being young and stupid isn’t such a good thing. I’m… still grateful. For everything. To you too, Akio-san. Of course.”

Akio nodded. “Even if you weren’t Shaeula’s friend, I’d have helped out. I hate bastards who pick on women. I mean…”

“Yes, we know. ‘I have a sister and a childhood friend, if they were in trouble, I’d hate it if someone else just walked on by without helping.’ You’ve said that a number of times.” Karen teased him, and we all chortled happily at Akio’s embarrassment. As he ran a hand through his hair bashfully, I realised I was licking my lips. I can not help myself. He is my other self. The full moon to my new. But the moon illuminates all, not just me. His light can encompass all, as can his arms and heart. I find that comforting. Even if Ichika struggles with the concept.

“I can’t help but be predictable. But it’s still true. Anyway… just consider it Shaeula’s whims. I’m always happy to cater to them, but especially today…”

The conversation was light-hearted, and while we had little time, as the Pilgrimage was due to move through the other half of Tokyo, culminating at Hikawa-Kawagoe shrine, where Arisu would be performing the major broadcast of the day, I intended to make the most of every minute. The Immortal Paradox, hmm? It is certainly true that we Fae idle away the years. But… now there is enough to fill even our lifetimes. Love, entertainment, friendship… as well as battle, training and danger. At times now, I feel more like a mortal than a Fae. It is not a terrible feeling.

“Karen, how-how is your relationship going?” I asked. Akio winced, but I waved a hard to dismiss his complaints. I am not nosy, merely inquisitive. Karen is my friend, so naturally I am invested in her happiness.

“Yeah…” Akio spoke up. “Yasu-kun’s… a good guy, but… he’s Yasu-kun. He’s… a little immature.”

“Hey, I thought all us women were eighteen?” Karen chuckled, leaning back in her chair. “Honestly, I wouldn’t say we’re serious, but… it’s not exactly casual either, maybe? He’s quite funny and charming when we’re alone, you know? But… he is quite a bit younger than me. I wonder… if it’s just not going to work out?”

Akio shook his head and spoke before I could. “I wouldn’t worry about that. If it comes to your appearance, you could easily pass for your mid-twenties. Honestly, you didn’t look your age before, Karen-chan.” He winked. “I always thought I was lucky to have a hot neighbour!”

“Oh you…” Karen waved a hand. “Yes, I’ve certainly noticed. Firstly I thought that my skin and weight improved as I wasn’t stressed with all the harassment at my old workplace anymore. Then I realised it couldn’t be that…” She shrugged, taking a sip of her beer. “…after all, my job now is far more stressful than you promised, Akio-kun!”

I had to laugh at that. “Do not-not lie, Karen, you love it. A job you can be proud of, yes? Besides, Akio does not-not ask anyone to do something he would not-not do far worse himself.” I gazed at Akio fondly, though I did feel some concern. “Just how-how are matters progressing at the mansion?”

“Slowly.” Akio grimaced. “I may have been overconfident, but I think I could untangle the adherence that makes up the Woe, probably enough to let her out, but… it’s not that straightforward. Hyacinth is quite knowledgeable, though she has gaps in her understanding, but… we’ll make it work somehow.”

“What’s going on?” Ichika asked, and as we explained, she shook her head, eyes wide.

“That’s… do you always have to save the damsel in distress, Akio-san?”

I snickered as he defended himself, even as the waitress here brought us more beers. Time for one more, before we must be away to quickly visit several shrines.

“She’s just a little girl, not a woman in distress. You’d have to have a heart of stone to ignore her suffering.” I nodded at his words. It was true. And also… disturbing.

Yes, this Woe upon the Goblins, which seems to even have predated the Unseelie Court… it is extremely troubling. I would speak to my father about it, when next I have the chance.

“I see. You never change, Akio-kun.” Karen shook her head.

“No, and in a way, that’s comforting. But the reason I don’t is, because I have those who keep me grounded.” Akio put his arm around my shoulders, pulling me close, and I enjoyed that open display of affection, even if Ichika couldn’t help but roll her eyes. “Anyway…” he continued. “I wouldn’t worry about your relationship with Yasu-kun, you’re young at heart, and in appearance.”

“I’ll allow that clumsy attempt to change the subject.” Karen sighed, though it was more from exasperation than annoyance, I suspected. “But there’s a bit of a generation gap. And his tastes run… a little different to mine. But honestly, he’s reasonably attentive, and treats me pretty well. Though he does talk about his cousin Takagi-chan a lot. He’s worried you’ll sink your claws in her. I can’t say I blame his worry, but… she seems a quite smart young woman, she likely knows her own mind.”

“I assure you, she’s just a friend of Kana’s, and a cousin of my good friend.” Akio deflected, and I nodded, and decided to throw Karen a lifeline, as she was clearly embarrassed talking about this.

“So, Ichika, have-have you been interested in anyone? You are quite-quite cute.”

She blinked, surprised at the question, before she shook her head. “Not… not yet. I haven’t been looking. Honestly… I’m too busy, and… well, you know.”

I did. But that was hardly a good excuse. “Nonsense. Yes, some vile-vile fools tried to coerce you, but Akio and I dealt with them. You can not-not let the past deter you. Why, just-just in the Pilgrimage alone there are some worthy males, I am sure. None-none of Akio’s calibre, of course, but… Akio can not-not take every female who exists.”

“Eri-chan will be delighted to hear you say that!” Karem laughed, and I snorted, agreeing.

“Indeed. Though Eri is not-not as unreasonable as you think. She sees the virtues of Adamant, even if she was not-not happy at how we did not-not involve her.”

“I wasn’t happy either.” Akio nodded. “I get that it was a surprise for me, and you just wanted to be helpful, but… yeah, Eri should have been consulted. It’s hard enough managing everyone without you all going behind each other’s backs.”

I know. We were misguided in that. But… “We did not-not intend to disadvantage Eri. But we have indeed learned, I promise.”

“I know.” Akio smiled at me, and my momentary discomfort vanished. It was then Ichika spoke up.

“I’m not so sure you have. I don’t really understand it. If I was Mori-san, I don’t think I’d be able to handle it. But… I’ve learned I’m not exactly the best judge of character, and I’m easily fooled. So… if you can all live with it, I’ll be happy for you.”

“I’m happy you’ve stopped scowling at me, like I’m cheating on Shaeula.” Akio managed a chuckle. “It was rather uncomfortable.”

“Sorry.” Ichika flushed, embarrassed. “I’m a bit ashamed of how I acted. You weren’t even together with Shaeula when we first met. I… simply didn’t trust or like men. Most women either. I saw betrayal and treachery around every corner.”

“I understand, so I don’t blame you. But it was a bit like lying on a bed of nails, your stare.” Akio waved his hand, accepting her apology. “It’s why you need power. So that nobody bullies you in future. Although…”

“Yes-yes!” I agreed cheerfully. “If any fool dares-dares bully my friends, or tricks them, I shall not-not stand idly by! It is why you need-need a strong male, or perhaps a worthy female, if that-that is your preference…”

As Ichika shook her head frantically, further embarrassed, assuring me she was heterosexual, I exchanged a wry glance with Karen, who raised her can of beer to me. I returned the gesture, and drinking deep, I returned to my playful teasing of Ichika, savouring the moment, before doing the same to Akio.

As he downed the remains of his can to match my toast, my Eyes shone with a little aether, observing him, feeling the lingering taste of Weal And Woe upon him. Such would ordinarily have repulsed me, but after accepting Hyacinth, and making many elements, including the once-repulsive earth, my own, I had realised power was simply a tool. Yes, some were wicked, but… mostly, it was how one used it that mattered…

Yes. And right now, Akio is trying to find a power that will allow him to remove the Woe, without it being a gamble such as those dramas I have seen, where the man cuts the red wire of a bomb and hopes it does not explode. Of course, if it comes down to luck, then Akio is indeed rather fortunate…

***

“I didn’t think that would work, but… yeah, it’s still disappointing.” I observed the fading purple haze around Aine’s resting place, a faint mirror to the vivid violet skies above. “It doesn’t really isolate the additional adherence being pulled in. As I suspected, there’s definitely something beyond spatial components involved here.”

Hyacinth nodded. “Indeed. Woe doooes not care where you are, it comes as it wills.”

“Yeah.” I agreed, pondering. “It’s interesting though. It reminds me a little of how Lovers’ Link works. Let me test it again.”

Eri, are you ready again?

It’s fine. I’ve just left another shrine. It would be helpful if Aiko could see Skill and Class information like you do, but I guess her new Eyes aren’t that good. But I think I’ve gained another Level or two in Kami-Blessed. Anyway… go for it.

I nodded at Hyacinth, and she signalled she was ready. Grasping both threads of Lovers’ Link, I then pulled on a third, that of Rose’s. She wasn’t able to communicate with me properly, but she was indeed smart, and so traced a simple Rune to signal her intent.

“All right then.” Hyacinth had briefed and trained me in how to use this Skill, and so with a dramatic tone, I proclaimed. “First Weal! Minor Fortune!” With my Eyes, I could see a very modest trickle of aether and adherence gather around me. At best, it might equate to having an extra point or two in Fortune for a few minutes. Of course, it’s not the Weal, but the Woe that matters.

“First Woe! Trio Of Minor Misfortunes!” Hyacinth stumbled, and Eri’s thoughts came to me.

Ouch. I just stubbed my toe, which shouldn’t even have hurt with my stats, but the corner of a paving stone was sticking out and it caught me just right!

Rose traced a Rune that I could feel, signifying amusement, and I surmised she too had been affected. With my absurdly high Alacrity and Split Thoughts, one instance dedicated to each girl, I was able to count like a metronome, and as suspected, the Woe struck instantaneously against all three.

“Just as I thought.” My first experiments had been trying to use the same trick on someone far away I didn’t have Lovers Link with. Neither Siegrune, judging by Rose’s reaction, nor Ulfuric, had been affected. So proximity was a factor, but… when there was another method of connection, distance was meaningless. The temporal dilation too. Yeah, just like Lovers’ Link, though… it is still possible the fact I’m using Lovers’ Link as a medium is biasing the results. More investigation is needed. I almost wish Christina was here, her scientific methods of experimentation might be useful…

Instead, I had sent her out on the second day of Pilgrimage, but I would be calling her back, if we could find a way to transfer the Woe and sever the connections to the greater, disconnected strands of maleficent adherence that were swirling around Aine and the Goblins. I don’t relish causing anyone pain, even her… but she was adamant that she could handle it, and it would be a tangible demonstration of her willingness to take responsibility and make amends by helping others… it’s hard to refuse that.

“So, should I try now?” Haru asked, raising an eyebrow. “I’d say I am fairly immune to misfortune. After all, the greatest has already befallen me.” At the look on my face, she smiled a little. “Don’t pout, Akio. I’m joking. Honestly… I actually think I’m rather lucky nowadays. Except in my punishing work schedule. But it’s hard to complain to you, even if it’s your fault! If we were simple government employees, we’d probably be drinking buddies and commiserate each other with late-night beers.”

I couldn’t help but chuckle. “That would be a good time. You’re fun to be around, Haru. In fact, Shaeula says if we’re done by the evening, she’d love to have you out for a few drinks with us before we hit our hotel for the end of the night.”

“I wouldn’t say no to a few cold ones.” Haru agreed. “But shouldn’t you be inviting your girlfriends? The numbers are stacking up…”

“It’s a bit awkward. Shaeula’s trying to be fair.” I explained. “So she’s taking the time to hang out with her other friends. We’re with Karen-chan and Ichika-san, though… it’ll soon be time to move on.”

“See, that’s why I’m not mad.” Haru’s smile was teasing. “Even when you’re relaxing, your schedule is brutal. I think your chance of having time to take a break and just enjoy yourself, and all your women, has passed.”

“I don’t know about that.” I shook my head. “Sure, things are hectic now, but once the situation stabilises, we’ll have time to relax…”

“I think yooou are wrong, Akio.” Hyacinth disagreed with me. “I think when this is dooone, you will find sooomething else that needs your attention, and yooou shall have no rest at all. But wooorry not, Akio. I shall be sure to soothe yooour cares, and the other mistresses shall comfort you!”

“How adorable.” Haru chuckled at Hyacinth’s earnest words. The pair of them got on well, perhaps as they had both suffered in the past. “I suppose hard work isn’t so bad if you have someone… or in your case many someones to share your burdens and comfort you.” She was setting up her Telepathy, to test the next stage of my plan. I resisted the urge to ask her if she was lonely, but I knew it wasn’t a good question to ask her. She gave me an odd look, and I realised that despite my higher mental stats, which should have prevented her from reading my thoughts, she had established a link, so my resistance to her was down.

Sorry Haru. That was insensitive of me.

Actually, it’s more of a problem when you treat me like I’m made of glass. I was… but time is a great healer. And the greater healer is Resilience, yes? Besides… you are keeping me far too busy to dwell on it. It’s amazing how cruel your kindness can be, sometimes…

Her smile robbed her words of their sting, and I shrugged, defeated. Yeah, it’s not really something I can argue with you about. But I’d never want to upset you if I can help it Haru. You’re like a sister to me. Honestly. I just want the best for you.

A sister, hmm? I’m not sure whether I should be flattered, offended, or worried you are after my body. I would say that would be over my dead body, but… you’d take that as an invitation!

I was shocked by her thoughts, never thinking she would make such a ribald joke, after her experiences, and indeed, her brown eyes were wavering a little, but her gaze sharpened, as she seemed exasperated by my shock and concern.

Yes, I’m not… exactly comfortable… with thoughts of that nature. But… I’m also not going to stay imprisoned in my grief forever. You taught me that, and helped me get revenge, closure, or whatever it was. I’m… still hurting. Maybe I’ll hurt for a very long time. Not forever though… otherwise that bastard wins. But I’m also fighting. She switched her words from mental to speech, so Hyacinth could hear too. “Hyacinth knows, don’t you? The only way to lose is to remain unhappy. If we stumble along the way, at least this idiot will catch us, right? And your hands…” She turned to me then. “…aren’t vicious, cruel ones. Lewd ones, certainly, considering, but… also kind.”

“Yes. Tooooo kind.” Hyacinth agreed. “I can never leave him nooow. No matter…” She seemed to be thinking of something sad, but seeing me looking, she plastered a smile on her face, trying to reassure me. “…the past is just that. Gooone. Though…” She glowered at Wanderer, who was watching us, troubled, gnawing at his lip. “…tooo offer Weal for Woooe is perhaps a wooorthy endeavour. Sooo I shall not fail.” She smiled at Haru then. “Nooo more shall you. Fooor you have passed through grief and been booorn anew. And with Akio here, nooobody can hurt you anymore. For if you are his sister, then yooou are dearly loved!”

“So I’ve seen.” Haru giggled softly. “But we should focus on what matters. Our Goblin friend here seems nervous. Understandably so.”

“Of course. Our final treasure, the Blood of the First, our hope… to entrust it to you was a desperate gamble, in the hope she could be saved. We had hoped that the curse would fade, the Woe pass, but… it seemed as if that time would never come, no matter the endless procession of Moons that passed us by.”

“Woe is nooot so easy to shirk. Try, and three times the despair comes back upon you. But… we shall stand strooong against any despair. Together.” Hyacinth declared, and her confidence warmed me.

“Yes. Together.” I turned back to Haru. “So, you know what to do? Don’t let me know who you pick.”

“I know what I’m doing.” She rolled her eyes. “You nag at me like I’m your sister too. It’s both rather sweet and utterly annoying. Now…” She floated in the air, feet not touching the ground. “…give me ten minutes.” With that declaration, she was gone, speeding towards the Ring Gate, and I rubbed my nose idly, feeling embarrassed.

Yes, I probably shouldn’t forget she’s a successful bureaucrat. Even before all this, she held down a job in her father’s department, and while she probably got her chance due to familial connections, Japan isn’t so kind as to let the incompetent stay in positions of power…

“Don’t worry.” I reassured Wanderer. “We won’t do anything to harm her.” I nodded at Aine. “Like I said before, with Hyacinth’s help, I’m confident it’s possible. So then…” I turned to our other guest, the High Kobold. “Want to tell me why you are here? And why you carry such a Lantern?”

“You have inquisitive eyes.” The High Kobold’s tone was slightly mocking, and I didn’t like it much. But it seemed he had been in my Territory for quite a while, and we’d found no obvious trouble he’d caused. The loopholes the Goblins and the High Kobold had used to enter our Territory had been addressed, and while we couldn’t fully secure the situation until Rank Four and the Barrier Anchor Spire, now all immigrants were being vetted.

“Yes. It’s my duty to make sure my Territory and all within it are safe. I can’t overlook things.” I countered, and the frail, Dwarf-like Kobold shook his head.

“I am sure you do, and I applaud that. I visited the Mines a great many times. The poor Kobolds seem… content.” He rolled the word around his mouth as if tasting it. “It seems that while you take tribute, it is far from onerous, and the population is increasing. Though much like my Goblin friend here… it is a sad mockery of our past.”

“They are called taxes.” I countered. “Some pay by the spoils of their labour, others by contributing knowledge or strength to the Territory. I’m not claiming either Capitalism or Communism don’t have their flaws…”

The terms seemed to confuse the Kobold, so I clarified. “Capitalism is the dedicated pursuit of individual wealth, whereas Communism is sharing such wealth equally. That’s a gross oversimplification, and in practice neither proves to work how it claims to. Capitalism without government oversight just leads to chaos, and Communism is no better. I’m not trying to replicate what we have in the Material.” No, I’m trying to be as fair as possible, while preventing the stagnation of a Territory where everyone’s needs are met. It’s tough, and fortunately I have wise people helping me…

“The Kobolds are safe here, but if they can help provide ores and other resources for our projects, that’s their civic duty. Just as our guards bleed and die for our safety, or our Mortal Engineers labour away improving inventions to make our lives easier. And while doing a good deed is certainly its own reward…”

Hyacinth snorted at that, so I reached out and clasped her hand in mine, knowing she was feeling rather tense. “…I believe no good deed should go unrewarded either. All here shall have shelter and comfort, so long as they mean no harm and do no evil, but… those that contribute more can enjoy many benefits. Not things essential to life, but… things that make life just that little bit more fun.”

“Like the fine alcohol…” Wanderer agreed. “…I have earned a handful of your currency, and it is known it was pleasant, the strong spirits. Though the Chieftain drank most of it.” He flexed his fist, as if remembering a wish to strike said Goblin.

“Exactly. As the overall wealth and power of the Territory increases, the baseline of what comes to all will rise too. Though there will always be greater luxuries. That’s just the way of things. We can’t ever be truly equal. Because we aren’t.” I shrugged. “But… now the world is at least fairer. Our own strength and determination can take us to places we couldn’t have dreamed of before, if we have the will.”

The High Kobold chuckled. “I admire your optimism, and it seems genuine. I have been watching, observing… but… maybe one final observation pays for all.” His expression was blank, giving away nothing of his true intentions. Perhaps seeing my irritation, he shrugged. “I can hardly harm you or yours. I am not such a fool. Even your…. Brownie…”

At that, Hyacinth giggled. “I am Hyacinth. No mooore, no less. But… I prefer to be a Brownie than a Boggart, even if Hyacinth is truly boooth or neither.”

“…yes.” The Kobold conceded. “Just as the Goblins fell, and the Kobolds too… you are fallen. Yet… what falls can rise again. As you have. And become something else. More, perhaps.”

“It is known.” Wanderer echoed piously, yet there was a deep yearning and hope in his voice, and desperation in his yellow eyes. “We have to believe that. By the Moon, I pray it is so.”

“It is so.” I insisted. “And you’re right. Hyacinth has forged herself anew and has become her own master.”

“Wrooong!” Hyacinth squeezed my hand firmly. “I had tooo work, yes. I am proooud of that, proud of who I am now, of Hyacinth. But without hope, compassion…” She paused to giggle, her grip on my hand strong but warm. “…looove, there is nooo motivation to change. We are shaped by our Bonds, yes?” She winked, and I realised Hyacinth understood my plan. She would, wouldn’t she? After all, in Weal And Woe, I’m but a novice. In Oath And Boon too…

“As for my ooown master? Nooo. I repudiate that! My ooonly master is the one I love. No, that is nooot quite right. I looove the mistresses and… it is simple. I am yooours, and you mine. Love is a connection. A great Weal, that doooes not breed Woe always. Though…” A shadow fell on her face, and I knew she was recalling the past she claimed not to remember, but, just like Tan, she couldn’t help herself from leaking little fragments of it, either unintentionally, or… perhaps she wants me to ask. Soon… I need to. I promised her, I’d help her face her past regrets, no matter what they were. And… even if she’s suffered the indignities I fear, I’ll never condemn her.

You had better not! But I know you are better than that. Anyway, I’m ready!

“All right then.” I prepared to conduct the next test, but before I could start, the High Kobold pulled free his Lantern, waving it idly.

“I am here to see.” he insisted. “Show me you can achieve this, and… I shall tell you what you wish to know.”

“A test, huh? I’m not sure you have the right to come in here and demand from us, but…” I gave him a challenging smirk. “…I want to save her anyway. So… watch and learn.”

Back in the Material, Shaeula and I were finishing our drinks, ready to head to another few shrines quickly, so we could scrape up some more free time. Here… All right then. Reach out and touch them. I don’t know them, I’m not connected to them yet, except through Haru, but… First Weal! Minor Fortune! First Woe…