On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

Carl Tuckerson Tonight, Fox News, December 26th 2019.

“Good evening. I want you to think about it. Right now, on our American streets, there are unknown dangers lurking. This is not hyperbole, fearmongering, or discrimination. It is simple fact!”

With his hair and makeup done perfectly, the lighting set to highlight his face, Carl’s every gesture was designed to emphasise his message, and draw the eyes of his audience. His cadence was crisp, and the way he put emphasis on certain words was well-practised and evoked the image within the minds of his viewers he wished to portray. Such was the media.

“Yes, simple fact. Right now, your neighbour, with whom you have a cookout and talk about football over a few beers over the weekend, the kind old lady down the street who is always feeding stray cats, the brash young man who has a ready smile and will help you shovel snow from your driveway in winter, the gruff mechanic who has a bit of advice for you when the gears on your truck are sticky… do you know them? Can you know them now?” He paused, letting that sink in.

“Some would say I am exaggerating, that such warnings are misplaced, misguided. That the Second Amendment right to bear arms means we shouldn’t be wary… I would say… the misguided here are you, sympathies misplaced on those who might be dangerous within our midst! It is no exaggeration to say that those clinging to the Second Amendment here are not bad people, not wicked, just simply… naïve. Too trusting. The Second Amendment is a pillar of American superiority and is needed more than ever. But… it is not the same!”

He paused, allowing his audience a brief second to begin thinking, before he continued, his face radiating solemn worry and compassion. “Any US citizen has a right, nay, a responsibility, to be armed. Anyone can secure a pistol, a rifle, enough ammunition to protect themselves, their families, their communities… it is the reality of America, that even the meanest has the same rights as the greatest. But… these abilities, these powers, these… and forgive me if I do unleash some hyperbole now, these ungodly curses, given by who-knows-what for who-knows-why… they are like hidden daggers, ever ready to strike.”

Another pause, a small sip of water, and the impression of a man contemplating a difficult situation, eyes squeezed shut for a moment, before Carl opened them again, gazing at the camera, and through it, his watching viewership.

“Imagine an America, where only one in a hundred thousand of you had the right to bear arms. Not Police, not the Military, not responsible citizens, or American patriots! But it could be the drug-addled junkie on the sidewalk, the far-left antifa rabblerouser seeking to overthrow our great nation, a career criminal, fresh out of another stint in jail, a gang-member, with no regard for law and decency… imagine it. Imagine it!”

Leaning forward in his chair, as if to appeal to the viewers, he continued his opinion piece fervently. “Worse, these guns do not simply kill, but… all sorts of wicked tricks can be accomplished. This is not science fiction, fellow patriotic Americans, this is horror! Unimaginable power in the hands, not of those who can be trusted, but those who won the Devil’s lottery. This is more than a matter of fairness, but a clash between good and evil! If you don’t believe me… look at the world today.”

Behind him, a screen lit up, displaying images for the watching public.

“We all know of London. But… that is far from all. South America is full of escalating gang warfare, fuelled by evil! In India, civil unrest and political assassinations make a mockery of its claim to be a first world country… Africa has seen savage, running clashes their paper governments seem helpless to stop… and the cause, the fuel… are these so called Chosen by the Gods. What Gods? There is only one God, and we have seen those who claim to be his stewards manage things very poorly, adding further tinder to this oncoming blaze!” He took a deep breath. “Well, I say enough, no more! This is America, the land of the free, the home of the brave! We are not like those other countries. We are not fools! No… when the genie is out of the lamp, all we can do is come together, and manage it.”

Carl steepled his fingers together, adopting a contemplative pose. “For the good of our great nation, we must follow a safer course. All men are created equal, Thomas Jefferson said, when we fought for our independence from British tyranny. But in these times, that is no longer the case. We are not all equal. Therefore we must be vigilant. Not only of those within us who have been cursed, changed by such powers… but for those who come from abroad. Some naïve, reckless folks might say that this is no different to a concealed carry, but what metal detectors, what security scanners… can check the evil that lurks in people’s hearts?”

He took a deep breath, staring deep into the camera. “Fear not, our brave President and his team will not let you down, they will root out the snakes and the wolves among us. Those who love America, despite this obscene affront to God they have received, who do the right thing… they have nothing to fear. No, in fact, they can be part of the solution, under God and our President! But… those who hide, who cower, who plot, scheme and abuse this witchery for their own benefits, robbing from, corrupting, and coveting what you have, be it your wealth, your wives, your children, even your lives… I say this, on behalf of the great American people! We stand with you! I stand with you! And we… we shall not just roll over and submit!”

His impassioned words, artful beads of sweat on his brow, his wide-eyed stare, all combined to form a perfect image, and as Carl loosened his tie with meaningful gestures, to show just how fatigued he was by the weight of his words, he uttered his final plea, addressing those who had tuned in. “We have come through dark times before. Now is not the time for reckless stupidity, for change just for the sake of it. Stability and discipline will carry us through. Listen to the voices in your heart, and you will see who to trust, who can guide us through this dreadfulcrisis…”

***

BBC One Breakfast – The Daily Papers, Boxing Day Morning, December 26th 2019.

“And now we’ll go to the newspaper headlines.” The male presenter in a navy suit and white shirt was saying to his two female colleagues. “The first issues after the break for Christmas Day should be… rather more explosive than usual.”

“You’re not kidding. The Queen herself, may God bless her, said the same thing during her Christmas Day speech.” The first woman agreed with a light chuckle, her sharp black skirt suit setting off her black hair and hazel eyes nicely. She held up a newspaper, and soon the image of the front page was displayed to the viewers at home. “We’ll start with the Daily Sun. As you can see, it leads with the shocking footage from Christmas Eve.”

“I think it’s a good picture…” the final presenter, a dark-skinned Asian British woman in a white skirt suit and reddish-pink shirt, smiled warmly. “…that headline though. The Princess And The Poacher…”

“Indeed.” the man agreed, a slight smile on his face. “A clever play on words, we’d expect no less from the Daily Sun. I’d be a bit more worried that they say the story continues on Page Three… if they are careless then our dear old Majesty herself will be warming up the headsman’s axe on the steps of the Tower for the journalists involved.”

“Fortunately, it should be fine.” The woman holding the paper grinned, opening it up. Indeed, Princess Eleanor was on Page Three, but unlike the usual women there in a state of undress, she was properly clothed for the winter chill.

It was another picture of her taken on her jaunt through London on Christmas Eve, her cheeks reddened by either the cold, or more likely, what she was doing, which was leaning in to kiss a man, his face hidden by her head…

“Besides, judging by the cover shot…” he gestured to the screen behind them, which displayed the front page, an image of their Princess and the most famous man of the hour, Akio Oshiro, holding hands intimately, watching the festive lights of central London, his clothes matching the mystery man Princess Eleanor was kissing. “…I’d be more worried about him being upset.”

“True.” the third presenter agreed. “Anyway, the gist of it is that they are speculating whether this unexpected get-together, which judging by the Page Three photograph, which only the Daily Sun managed to get hold of, the pictures in the other papers are rather more… tame… and witness testimonies, was romantic. This surely means that Akio has his sights set on our own royal treasure. Though despite the headline, the Daily Sun seems rather positive about the whole affair. But then, that paper does love royal scandals and gossip, and there’s little juicier than this. It should keep them going for weeks. Other papers are going with similar headlines, if not universal approval…”

The Morning Star was also emblazoned with an image of the two of them, and its headline was ‘Elea-no-way!’’ and it was rather scathing towards the prospect of a known foreign polygamist attempting to woo Britain’s heroic Princess and national treasure.

“I understand the sentiments.” The woman in white frowned. “But firstly, as always the tabloid press is drawing conclusions from what could just be a simple meeting. Secondly, polygamy isn’t legal in Britain, so…”

“Just a simple meeting? Not if the Page Three from the Daily Sun can be believed. Anyway, the Reflection also has an interesting and different viewpoint…” Another paper was held up, and the image on the screen changed. This one was Eleanor and Akio as well, but the headline was rather more positive.

“A Fairytale Ending… I suppose it would be. The Princess in danger, and the Prince swoops in on a white horse to save her. They fall in love, share a kiss, get married… though admittedly, the Prince usually doesn’t have other Princesses…” the woman chuckled. “Despite that, it wouldn’t be awfully surprising if the past events in London have softened her heart. There’s a lot that goes on which we don’t know about, yet…”

“It seems some of our more respectable broadsheets…” She held up the Independence, the newspaper having a much larger page size than the previously shown tabloids. “…have been focussing on other parts of this situation. Though of course…” Her smile was amused. “…it too leads with the story of the supposed date between Akio Oshiro and our Princess Eleanor. Apparently, the Palace has yet to issue a statement either affirming or denying any romance. But… there’s a related interview with an anonymous British Gods’ Chosen, who speculates that they might have been meeting to discuss trade of special resources. You remember? That footnote in the strange Japanese legislation we reported on a while back, which was rather drowned out by the polygamy and special passport laws.”

“I see. I’d… honestly not buy that. Look at the photos.” The male presenter chuckled, flipping through the Daily Sun which his co-presenter had put down. “Ignoring who they are, if you showed these pictures to anyone free of context…”

“Yes, it looks like a date to me. And that flushed face, and the kiss… that’s not gratitude or friendship, I’m a woman, I know!” the second woman agreed. “Anyway, onto the last of today’s papers, The Defender. It’s a clean sweep, five for five, and in fact, I don’t think you can find a newspaper here in Britain not filling the front page with photographs of the two of them. Just like the Queen predicted in her speech, she’s seldom wrong! Anyway, their tone is again more positive, talking about the benefits a relationship between the Princess and Akio could bring to Britain, though it candidly does discuss the problematic optics. After all, it was only a few days ago Akio’s engagement to the Imperial Princess of Japan, Princess Mikasa, was announced to the world…”

“I agree, it’s certainly a topic that is dividing the nation. In fact, tonight, Panorama will be broadcasting a special episode on just what might be their relationship.” the third presenter declared. “We have behind-the-scenes information from sources close to the matter, and some very interesting insights which the public haven’t been privy to!”

“Yes, you don’t want to miss it!” the man agreed. “Stop inside on this cold, wintry Boxing Day, open up a beer and join our excellent presenters in getting to the bottom of the mystery that has all the newspapers, both tabloid and broadsheet, fascinated, bar none! And speaking of Panorama, we are running a poll to see what you, the public, will accept. Do you support a relationship between the Princess and Akio Oshiro, or is it a step too far, a betrayal, or worse, a guarantee of a sad, loveless life for our brave Princess? Call the on-screen numbers to vote, or you can make your decision known online…”

***

WTV Broadcast, The Shrine Of The White Snake, Shirohebizumi, A Guided Tour! December 26th 2019, 9.00pm Japan Standard Time.

“Here we are, at Shirohebizumi shrine, on the outskirts of the greater expanse of Tokyo. It’s a quiet, urban neighbourhood, but… not ordinary!” the host, a beautiful young woman, who was an idol from AKB0048, was wearing a rather odd outfit, a bit like a traditional idol costume, but the skirt was black leather, and the shirt a crisp white, with a number of diamond-shaped badges pinned down the side. Despite that, she looked sporty, cute and enticing, and her smile was breathtaking.

“No, in fact this shrine is famous as it is the shrine which once formed the home base of Oshiro Akio-sama, where many of those in his faction were trained, and also… the scene of a famous battle.” She gestured, and the cameraman pointed his lens at the blackened training school, which even now was surrounded by scaffolding and tarpaulin, workers hastily working around the clock to restore it. “The school was gutted in a Church attack, but fortunately they were repelled, and their efforts in vain.”

“Yes, it was quite the fright!” A new speaker addressed the camera, and it turned to reveal two sisters, dressed in the pretty red and white attire of shrine maidens, the hakama. They both seemed to be mature highschoolers, eighteen years old or so, and were quite pretty, though they paled in comparison to the presenting idol.

“It was indeed, Iroha!” the younger sister, with her brown hair in a fashionable ponytail, as opposed to hair buns the older wore, agreed.

“Luckily nobody was hurt, either here or at our school. We have Kana-chan to thank for that. It’s her family shrine, you know. She’s… not here today, but… we’ll give you the grand tour!”

“I would appreciate it, and so would the eager viewers of WTV! We are here to bring you the most informative and entertaining programs about the new world and the paradigms within.”

“Paradigm! You’re smart as well as pretty!” Nana, the younger girl gushed. “We love idols. But you know, seeing them isn’t too rare now, is it Iroha?”

“Nope. But that’s a secret.” Iroha put a finger to her lips theatrically. “Anyway, my sister and I have been part-time shrine maidens here for years, very close to the Izumi family, who have been caretakers of the shrine for as long as it’s been here, longer than Tokyo existed!”

“Yes, true shrines and temples aren’t always that old, sometimes old sites get destroyed and are forced to relocate, but the faith is passed on.” Nana agreed. “Anyway, we were hired shrine maidens, but we’re close to Kana-chan and Keomi-chan. Unfortunately…. We didn’t get to take part in the early excitement, when Akio-kun and Shaeula appeared. Politics…”

“Yeah, quotas and stuff! It’s discrimination! But we’re in now at last… this is our first big job, so we’ll do it right!” Iroha chuckled. “So yeah, the role of a shrine maiden before was to venerate the Kami and the Gods. You must have seen kagura dances, selling amulets and fortunes, maintaining the grounds…”

“I hate sweeping!” Nana shook her fist. “The shrine grounds are massive. You’d think the Izumi family was rich, but… land left unused isn’t worth money, as Kana-chan says. Now though… it’s still an important site for the training of new shrine maidens. Now… our duties are to stand firm and protect Japan!”

“As to how… there have been other programs, and more to come. Go WTV! Arisu-sama, we think you’re great!” Iroha gave a thumbs-up to the camera. “We’re not here for that. This is a shrine tour, so… come this way!”

They led the idol presenter through, pointing out the torii gates, and sacred shimenawa ropes. “The gate took a few dings during the battle, but it was first priority to replace. It’s brand new, and… actually consecrated by the Kami itself! The Gods are real, and you can meet them sometimes.” Iroha continued to gush, her sister nodding beside her. “Though they are very busy, so… not often. But, despite it being the Izumi home, and very important, it’s still a working shrine, which accepts pilgrims. The locals still drop by, though the attacks did scare them.”

“Yeah.” Nana agreed boisterously, ponytail bouncing as she did. “The main building here of the shrine, as you can see… was rather dilapidated, but now it’s being redone. New floors, seats, statues… all to honour Shirohebi, and all those who follow the path of the shrine maiden or priest! It’s something you understand, right? That uniform…”

“Isn’t for discussion today!” the idol presenter laughed charmingly, displaying great professionalism. “Programmes on that topic are coming, no doubt. But yes… Oshiro-sama’s allies include a great deal of shrine maidens and priests. The faith of Japan is strong, and while like Japan as a whole, we don’t discriminate against other faiths, we won’t tolerate barbarism, like we saw here!”

“Exactly, anyway… we should go inside.” They entered the shrine, which was lit by modern lamps installed on antique-seeming candelabras. “Like we said, this is a working shrine, with visiting hours between nine and four, though do bear in mind that the shrine building is under tight security, so no causing damage or trouble, else you’ll surely regret it!” Iroha warned.

“They wouldn’t do that!” Nana faked shock and outrage. “Firstly, this shrine is now owned by Akio-kun, though the Izumi family are still the caretakers, and secondly… Shirohebi himself might see. Repent to the Gods if you like, but… it’s not so easy when they are right there in front of you…”

“Yes. Anyway, here is the altar, you can see a likeness of the White Snake, in his serpentine form. Oh, don’t mind the huge pile of offerings, that’s due to the Pilgrimage. Though feel free to come and donate! It’s a fertility shrine, so if you’re looking to conceive, we have charms for that, and while there are no guarantees in life…” Iroha winked, and Nana took over.

“…these are genuinely imbued with the belief in fertility, so while science can’t explain it, the results are real! Anyway…” She grinned, before letting out a giggle, passing one to the presenter, a small red pouch, with a stylised white snake on it. “It might be useful for you, if…”

“Very amusing!” the idol agreed dryly. “I’m a member of AKB0048, I’m here for the fans, but… I do indeed have a higher calling now. And part of that is to help spread the word! So, can you explain in detail how the Izumi family has maintained the shrine?”

“Sure, it’s like this…” the sisters began to explain, and the footage moved on, covering more of the shrine, as well as some interesting relics, such as a pair of blue jeans, which despite being asked, the two sisters wouldn’t explain, only giggling and making odd noises, like tinkling water. Many amusing and informative anecdotes were shared about the life of a shrine maiden before and after the changes, and how it was an excellent career prospect for young women nowadays, not merely a way to earn a few yen as part-time work like in the past…

***

NHK Newswatch 9, December 26th, 2019, 9.00pm Japan Standard Time.

“Good afternoon, it is nine o’clock. I am your host, Maha Kuwako.” The smartly dressed woman in her mid-thirties, wearing an expensive skirt suit, with impeccable makeup, her dark hair pulled into a neat bun, pinned with silver clips, intoned. “Tonight, more on the Pilgrimage which is sweeping Japan. You have likely seen it, coming through your towns and cities, a great throng of all sorts of people. Your local shrines and temples will have been barred to public entrance while they come… and when they depart, the site is often transformed, workmen renovating old buildings, repainting torii gates, placing statues…”

She paused meaningfully. “…the question is, what is it all for? We reached out to the Ministry for Spiritual Matters and received a statement on behalf of Minister Morita Yuna-sama, by her Undersecretary and Vice-Minister. Essentially, it is a display of respect and piety towards the Kami and Gods of Japan, who have protected us all these years. Repairing the shrines, making offerings, praying with sincere heart and clear mind… all shall apparently strengthen Japan. In fact, following a successful trial at the famous and secretive Hanafubuki Private Academy, which was subject to brutal terrorist attacks only days before the Pilgrimage began, modern classes on faith will be taught at additional schools. Those who have theological backgrounds, such as priests, shrine maidens and the like, who wish to get into teaching, have a number of options…”

She paused, coughing to clear her throat. “Back to the Pilgrimage itself, the public are being encouraged to likewise visit their local shrines. There is some distinction as to whether a shrine or temple counts as true, and contrary to common sense, it seems that the answer is that it relates not just to the unbroken lineage of caretaker families, but… the presence of Kami. What does that mean for us?”

The feed cut to a video, taken of a pale, androgynous figure with an odd, tasselled white hat, wearing similar robes. “This footage is provided by WTV, we thank them for their cooperation. Supposedly, this is Shirohebi, a Kami whose true form is a giant snake. We queried it, and…” Moments later the figure transformed, becoming a serpent of a size to give anyone who suffered from Ophidiophobia nightmares. Their tongue flickered restlessly, and they spoke in a sibilant voice, though the footage was too quiet to make much out. “…this is the result. Is this more shocking than the revelations Gods have blessed a small number of humans with mysterious powers, that magic is coming back to the world? I will let you judge that. This is not all…”

Footage then played of Prince Shōtoku and Kofuku Jizo, two famous Kami from Kyoto. After some further voiceovers, the feed cut back to the studio, and a solemn Kuwako. “As you can see, this is most definitely not an isolated occurrence, or a trick by some of those Chosen by the Gods to exhibit such powers. It is not a hoax. Indeed, the Prime Minister Abe-sama, Minister Morita-sama, and even the Imperial Family, as we saw on the fateful broadcast, with the living Tsukumogami of the Imperial Regalia, have all corroborated that faith is now not merely a matter of tradition, of pride, or culture, but it is of national importance, for both soft and hard power.”

She paused meaningfully again. “This pilgrimage is perhaps a blueprint, a first step in adapting the modern situation to our past, and the power inherent within that. Is this a blessing, or a curse? I do not think I am qualified to make that assertion. No, all I know is…” Kuwako stared deep into the camera, and the eyes of the viewers at home. “…we are living in interesting times. Now, onto the next news story. Rumours are circulating that Oshiro Akio-sama and the Princess of Great Britain, Eleanor…”

***

Panorama Special: The Princess And The Hero, BBC2, Boxing Day Evening, December 26th, 2019.

“Everyone who is assigned to any of the teams knows…” the voice was digitally disguised, neither male nor female, and the silhouette of the speaker wasn’t just blacked out, but also blurred. Text on screen declared it was for the safety of the informant, as while harmful information, or knowledge that would be detrimental to British interests, was not being disclosed, certainly this was still a serious breach of the Official Secrets Act, and various signed contracts.

“…since even before the shitshow that was the schism in London, so many of us attempting to sell off the Princess to Cardinal Mary Stuart, there was something there, some… tension. Looking back on it, it’s clear that the Princess wasn’t well, or entirely of sound mind. Perhaps it’s the stress, you know? Being a Gods’ Chosen might seem glamourous, but we can’t all be Akio or those with him, can we? This is life and death. Sure, we are all well compensated, but… money can’t buy back your life, can it? It’s worse for the Princess. She’s got to stand at the forefront, not just because of who she is, but what she is. A ‘tank’, the way youngsters say it nowadays. She stands there taking the hits, getting wounded, and allowing her team to make breakthroughs. So it’s not a surprise she was ground down. Besides…”

Even through the digitised tone, amusement could be inferred. “…it’s lonely, being a Princess. I’d never have had the opportunity to meet or associate with her if not for this fortuitous blessing I was given. Not that we’re close, you know. But… to be understood, when nobody does, to protect you, when it’s your job to do the protecting, when you are crying out for salvation, and your friends betray you left and right… and in swoops our man. Obviously her exhausted heart would crack. That’s not all…”

“We have heard the Queen’s Speech, and it’s clear that Akio was involved in some way with awakening our own Coronation Regalia, to match those belonging to the Japanese Imperial Family. Though the display was far less dramatic, no cute girls, storms or slashed lightning-torn skies.” The speaker chuckled. “The Queen deliberately uses the term friend, but we saw the Daily Sun’s Page Three. Not the usual fare, but… equally as titillating in a way. That’s not my point though. If he has done something to our Crown Jewels, it will be through resources. It’s an open secret that trade in the other world occurs between Japan and Britain, with the Princess the main beneficiary. It’s hard to imagine, but our Royal Family are the paupers when it comes to such things. Though supposedly the Tower… no, I’d best not go too far, or I will be hunted down for treason.”

After a pause, he spoke again. “The Japanese legislation might have seemed a joke, but they were way ahead of us. Fortunately, we have a firm alliance, and judging by Page Three, that wasn’t the only hard… no, treason, treason. Essentially nothing can be done without ether. It is gathered in a multitude of ways, and I won’t go into details, as to those of you who aren’t Gods’ Chosen, ether is worthless and you’ll never need it. It’s a building block of success, and I know, after the Princess was betrayed, her team’s… Territory… I believe the term is official now… was reduced to wreckage. Normally such a setback would be disastrous, and near impossible to recover from, but… thanks to support from Japan, via a method I am not at liberty to say, not only do we have a viable defensive pact, but resources, including significant ether, which is more than I probably accrue in a month, was shipped over, allowing rapid reconsolidation. Moreover, no further collapse like happened back then will be permitted, as reinforcements can arrive very quickly. Don’t ask me how, again, that’s a state secret. All that matters is…”

One final pause, before the last words were said. “…if you can’t see just how the Princess might have succumbed to his charms, those of us in the know can. Worse, those who were at the gala where Akio and his fiancées first appeared, know that the Princess was extremely rude, likely due to stress, exhaustion and worry. All of that was surely going to spark a rebound. Yes, it might just be seeking comfort with someone who understands her struggles and has supported her, but… whatever the case, most of us wish her well. There are those who are jealous, of course, but… even today, when magic has returned to the world, it’s far too optimistic to imagine that even with magic, there can be a rags-to-riches story of the humble man grabbing the Princess. No, even in the world of Gods’ Chosen, there are the haves, like Akio, and the have-nots… and they just try to get by and hope they don’t die. Glamourous, it isn’t, and like the world you know, money, or in this case, ether… is everything!”

The silhouette vanished, and a feminine yet confident voiceover began. “And so, we speak of ether. Supposedly there are other precious resources, though our informant was not privy to those. What he was sure of is that Princess Eleanor and her team, including two brave Gods’ Chosen who were reportedly crippled in the betrayal, are receiving support and training that seems unusually generous in these times of turmoil. How does this factor into their relationship? Are the pictures from the Daily Sun, and witness testimonies online, proof that Christmas Eve was indeed a date, as would be traditional in Japan, and a significantly intimate one at that? If so, does the Queen approve? She thanked a man, surely Akio Oshiro, for his help with our Crown Jewels, but she also said that he was just a good friend of her granddaughter. Even if she does give her blessing to a polygamous marriage to a common foreigner, the legalities here are frighteningly complex. Parliament would surely block it, and… the population seem split. Our poll, which we ran from the morning until an hour ago, closed extremely balanced. Fifty-two percent support their relationship, with forty-eight percent are against. Though from the comments, the no voters are far more virulent in their dislike of the idea, than many of the yes respondents are positive…”

***

Panorama Special: The Princess And The Hero Livestream – International Thread

101@KingOfOlympus That coward hiding their face and voice should cast aside their disguise. Though I do admit, swans, golden showers, bulls, eagles, serpents… disguises are worthwhile when it gets some tender love…

102 @ Sure, @KingOfOlympus, you’re always banging on about sleeping around. I knew we’d see you here. Besides when you talk about serpents and golden showers, I always feel a little sick…

102 @DreamingQueen, oh @102, don’t be so harsh on the King, he’s just really invested in roleplay. I think… isn’t that right, @KingOfOlympus?

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104 @KingOfOlympus Oh, you wound me, dear @DreamingQueen. I am more than happy to add another Queen to the notches on my bedpost, or I would, if I had not shattered my last bed with the fury of my thunderous fucking! For you… it will be the swan, to seduce a Queen! Have no fear, my majestic cock will subdue you soon enough, and you will come to love it!

105 @GamzeeMakara FuCk Me, ThE mAn Is CoMmItTeD aS aLwAys To HiS bIt. I’m ImPrEsSeD. BuT @KingOfOlympus, mAyBe ChIlL oUt AnD gRaB a FaYgO oR tWo?

106 @ It’s hilarious, he’s like a roleplayer. But… lay off the women, okay? At least here, nobody needs to feel unsafe…

107 @ I bet @DreamingQueen is a GIRL all right… Guy In Real Life…

108 @ Aren’t we here to talk about the broadcast? I’d say that’s more important…

109 @ No kidding @108, but it’s probably set @KingOfOlympus off. I mean, you saw the evidence. And if you look here… ‘ChristmasEveVideo.mp4’ it’s footage from the street that the Daily Sun has the picture from. That kiss wasn’t an innocent peck on the lips or cheek. It’s hot stuff, I’m not sleeping tonight…

110 @KingOfOlympus Foolish @GamzeeMakara, @106, @108! I am not one to chill out when my rival steals a march on me. Indeed, just let me click on that link a moment…

111 @DreamingQueen I am a woman, 100% @107, you jerk. As always, vulgar men are so disappointing. I have to admit though, after the announcement he was to wed Imperial Princess Mikasa, now this? Leave some beautiful lilies for us to enjoy! What is it up to now? Do we have an accurate count? Fourteen, maybe?

112 @CutiePie19 Oh hi, @DreamingQueen! I knew you’d be here. I see @KingOfOlympus is back again and unbanned. How many times is that now? Anyway, wow, Panorama sure was wild! Ether, huh?

113 @ Here comes the lily you ordered, @DreamingQueen!

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117 @ So frustrating! I just want to talk about the Princess and Akio! I ship it, I certainly do!

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120 @DreamingQueen That’s quite enough out of you all. Good job, moderators, ban the uncouth men who don’t understand love. Oh, how I imagine love blooms upon the bed all Akio’s women share…

121 @KingOfOlympus That video… oh, my fury grows! If I did not have many demands on my time, and many women to visit, I would fly to Japan, beat him to within an inch of his miserable, mortal life and show his women that Japanese tiddlers cannot compete with my mighty thundercock!

122 @ Not making a move on Princess Eleanor? No, you wouldn’t, would you? That’d be an international incident, @KingOfOlympus

123 @ Hahaha! Thundercock, sure! Well, when your videos surface of you snagging a Princess or two, we’ll bow to your manliness, oh @KingOfOlympus

124 @ He’s got some serious envy, I bet it burns hotter than the lightning he supposedly pisses…

125 @ Back on topic. @CutiePie19 Yes, Ether. From the way they talked about it, it’s basically magical silver. Industrial uses, and always valuable and easy to sell. Sounds like Britain’s Royal Family isn’t exactly cash rich in this new world. Makes a change for the monarchy to be the poor ones…

126 @ But I thought romance was the topic, @125? Regardless, looks like a new power couple is born. Uh… well, what would fifteen people be, @DreamingQueen, a power crowd, a power orgy?

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129 @CutiePie19 Eww, some of you guys need to get a life. And besides, there’s plenty more cute women out there, like me, and @DreamingQueen

130 @DreamingQueen My standards are exacting. Don’t get me wrong, Akio would meet them, but when it comes to sharing… it’s rough.

131 @KingOfOlympusMy standards are that all women shall be mine! It is Divine destiny. But… this Akio is a worthy rival. Tyr and Tsukuyomi, he has said at various points, no? Tsukuyomi is a worthless pansy God, but Tyr… that name has cache!

132 @GamzeeMakara Oh WhOa, LoOkS lIkE sOmE BlAcK rOm If YoU aSk Me. I aM oUt! LatEr JugGaLoS!

133 @ Not sure you should be committing blasphemy, even if you’re claiming to be a God yourself. I mean, didn’t you see the footage the BBC broadcast from that Japanese station? Of actual Gods, though they call them Kami, I guess…

134 @ Princess Eleanor is gorgeous… lucky fucker!

135 @ Well, @133, for ‘Gods’ they look rather unimpressive.

136 @CutiePie19 I just think it’s nice. From the way the BBC tells it, Akio and the Princess started out really not liking each other. Opposites attract, don’t they?

137 @ Ether, huh? If you search online, there are tons of hits. Related keyword searches too…

138 @ Sure, @137, but what keywords come up when you search Akio x Eleanor? That’s what I want to know…

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141 @ChaosEngine As always, you lot are focussing on the wrong things! Here we have some vital information. I warned everyone to stockpile supplies, and some of you listened. But here we are, learning about a type of currency that could be both a treasure and a liability.

142 @ I think we are talking about the most important matter. Princess threesome! Gods above, if you come bless me, and grant me the same opportunity, I’ll convert the world for you!

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144 @DreamingQueen Oh hi there. Looks like most of the crew is here. @Niko.Truthseekers.com are you there? Nope, not online. Anyway, even if you say that, we can’t get hold of ether, can we?

145 @ChaosEngine Where there’s a will there’s a way. I’ve been doing my research. Rumour is that certain medicines the Japanese and others are developing can contain and restore aether, which I can only assume is something to do with ether. If they come on the market, might be worth stashing a few vials at home. Just in case. Sometimes having the right thing to trade in a disaster situation is worth more than even guns and bullets.

146 @ You know, @142, I’m in! I’ll join you and threesome a Princess…

147 @ Get fucked, @146! And not with me and my Princess lovers! Oh, I thought it was quiet, looks like we’ve lost @KingOfOlympus again. A shame, I bet he’d be able to answer my question. How many royal families are there worldwide with Princesses? Google says most of the twenty-eight ruling monarchies have them, though some are too young, and some too old, or too married…

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151 @ Glad they’re gone. Sickening. We’re not into adultery and PDF’ing here! But even if you assume it’s a half dozen single Princesses within an acceptable age range, two are already bagged by our Japanese lothario, it seems…

152 @ Hey, you know what? I live in London, and I saw the two of them out on a date. It was wild, the street vendors were celebrating, giving out free wine and sausages. Like a festival! Most of those out on Christmas Eve who saw them were supportive…

153 @ Pics or it didn’t happen, @152!

154 @CutiePie19 I’m supportive too! Just like I was with Princess Mikasa! I wonder, do you think after the Queen’s Speech… which my whole family stands up for, you know… that her crown will turn into a cute girl, like that Japanese sword? That’d be amazing…

155 @DreamingQueen You are such a darling, @CutiePie19. Too pure for this world.

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157 @ I smell the sweet scent of lilies. I like it!

158 @ Hey, @ChaosEngine so tell me, what do you think of this? WTVFootage26.12.19.mp4 and I don’t mean the idol presenter, or the two cute sisters.

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301 @ChaosEngine I can see why you clipped that. Luckily it had English subtitles. Yes, it seems to be that if there’s a training school, then some people who weren’t Chosen must have aptitude. A good find. In fact, WTV is constantly outputting interesting programming.

302 @ Cute barely legal sisters! I’m in…

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304 @ Nope, looks like he was instead out. Another ban, good riddance.

305 @ChaosEngine Over here you can get it internationally. Check your own country’s listings for cable and satellite, but WTV is both informative and an outreach and propaganda service. Shrewd. But even so… they sometimes give away more than they imagine…

306 @ They’ve got idols presenting on the regular. And… Arisu Arisugawa… her old films are making a comeback you know? Talk is Hollywood wants her for a starring role in a new blockbuster…

307 @GoddessGrabber Hey, come check out my website goddessesgrabbed.com! I’ve been gathering information on all of the confirmed women Akio Oshiro has laid claim too. There’s Shaeula, the silver-haired knockout, the two girls and the maid from the first gala photographs, Princess Mikasa, Princess Eleanor… and more! If you have juicy gossip or photos, then come one, come all…

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309 @ Didn’t think @GoddessGraabber would last. What a pervert [Bookmarks website]

310 @ChaosEngine it’s also risky. Those that aren’t known are probably secrets for a reason. Besides… I was just talking about it. Check your WTV listings. Upcoming programs are ‘Portrait of a Fae princess: Shaeula Tu Shae Dannan’s story’ and ‘A noble daughter’s love: Takatsukasa Hinata, arrangements of desire’.

311 @ChaosEngine Like I explained, WTV is a propaganda arm as well. Just look at the vote split on Panorama. Many are against Akio Oshiro and the Princess, but many are in favour. It wouldn’t take much of a swing to make that a safer bet. Mark my words, both the BBC and WTV will soon be featuring programming on the Princess and her story, to entice the populace to support a union.

312 @DreamingQueen You’re as shrewd as ever, @ChaosEngine. If only every man could be as wise. Yes, it comes down to optics. Cheating is bad, polygamy just makes him seem selfish, but… just like during the Japanese Imperial broadcast, his actions win favour.

313 @CutiePie19 That’s right! Screw that mean old swine Gorohito! The sword-girl was adorable and cute. I support Akio and Princess Mikasa getting together, even if it’s just for her! I could take her home, dress her up, feed her… oh, she’s so cute. Tsukumogami, right?

314 @ If you weren’t a girl… supposedly… @CutiePie19, I’d be dialling 999 about now…

315 @ Yeah, though honestly, it’s only all a big deal because it’s Princess Eleanor! If Akio was marrying yet another ordinary Japanese person, or an Elf or something similar, there’d be no big fuss. But… isn’t this not just a big deal here, but internationally?

316 @ Oh, this chat’s just making me sad now. The rich get richer, and the poor make do with leftovers. What is it the Chinese say? Akio’s not just eaten the meat, but he’s drank the soup too, leaving the bowl for everyone else empty…

317 @ Yeah, it’s too depressing. I was excited at first, but… now I’m just empty…

318 @ Amen to that, @316, @317… let us paupers in love console each other! @CutiePie19, @DreamingQueen, at least tell us we have hope!

319 @DreamingQueen … … … … I believe in miracles.

320 @CutiePie19 Sure you do, @318! You don’t need to be Akio, just… be yourself, okay? Anyway… I for one support love! So long as the Princess is happy, I’ll cheer her on!

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698 @ChaosEngine I can’t believe I wasted my time reading all these comments. Even those who took my advice on the WTV schedule only want to gawp at cute idols and Akio Oshiro’s fiancées. When the true chaos starts, and it will, mark my words… people will wish they worried more about supplies, combat readiness and personal growth, rather than women… but by then, it’ll be too late to regret, and a folder of candid shots on their hard drives won’t help them…