On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

“Thank you for your support with this.” Haru addressed Tsukiko and Na-san politely, as they had gathered at her request while Akio was sorting out the final details of securing Mount Fuji. Fortunately, land claims and registration aren’t my areas of expertise. Though redrawing a Prefecture border slightly to resolve a long-standing issue…. Hinata really is a devil. The work that’ll cause down the line for poor bureaucrats, even for such a minor redistricting… oh well, for once it’s not my problem… and it’ll all work out.

“Oh, think nothing of it, Haru… oh my, this is quite the challenge.” The stunningly beautiful Tsukiko, who everyone here now knew was descended from a lineage containing Tennyo blood, as fantastical as that sounded, smiled charmingly, though it contained a rueful edge. I suppose having the blood of Kami and Gods isn’t so farfetched. And I can believe it of her and Shiro, certainly.

Haru had always been justifiably proud of her appearance, and she’d always taken care of herself, because in politics everyone had to look the part, and it was a sad fact of life beautiful women had one advantage, though she’d always been strict with her boundaries, which was possible due to her daddy being a Minister, and a highly respected one at that. Still, even without the simpering and flirting some beautiful women used to get ahead, men, older men, who made up the majority of Ministry staff and career politicians, couldn’t help but react favourably and give more opportunities to attractive women.

Of course, after… after I died, I changed a little. Covering all my skin, always wary of others’ thoughts and gazes. But even so, I was still confident in my looks, even if… even if I had no wish to be thought of in such a way.

Oh, sorry Haru-chan, can you pass on a message to…

A thought popped into her mind, and with barely a pause she redirected it to its intended recipient.

“I am not used to speaking so informally to others.” Tsukiko continued. “But we all must adapt and change.”

“Yes. We must.” Haru agreed, finishing her earlier thoughts as she glanced down. Her usually fully buttoned up shirt had been loosened a little, her ribbon tie off, one button exposing a little of her neck, and her usual jacket was being carried in her storage rather than worn as armour. It felt… a little frightening, honestly, and if she needed to breathe, her breath would no doubt be coming faster, yet… in one small way, it was also slightly freeing too. “I’m… not good with a lot of things. But just because we’re dead, doesn’t mean we can’t change, does it?”

“I would think ordinarily that is exactly what that means.” Na-san, her Chinese Chosen Hero, more through necessity and pity than any real connection, grumbled, though in their time together, Haru had grown to appreciate the woman. Our circumstances were incredibly similar. Bianca-san’s too…

Sorry, Haru-chan, can you link me into the twins for a moment, I have a question…

Suzuki-san, if I could just bother you…

Blinking, Haru rerouted the incoming queries, glad she had developed Split Thoughts herself. I think I might even overtake Akio soon in that regard. And doing that with any Skill is quite a feat. I guess I can brag about that…

“We’re not ordinary, are we?” Haru took out a bottle of Fae brandy from her storage, fingers tracing the cool, engraved metal of the watch strap. This was really too much, getting me a Patek. If it was back then, in my days before all this, I’d have expected ulterior motives, but… it’s somehow worse that it was just from pure respect and affection…

“Not everyone gets a second chance at life, literally, in our cases. So, Bianca-san, I know it’s all been a shock for you, but you’re very much not alone. Tsukiko, Na-san, me… we’ve all had the pleasure of being murdered.” Handing out glasses of the amber liquid, Haru continued redirecting more thoughts that were moving through her as both Telepathic receiver and broadcaster, being sure to keep one of her Split Thoughts focussed on this very important conversation.

“Though Na-san and I… we’ve had an even closer experience to yours, Bianca-san. We’re not all as… lucky… I feel awful even saying it… as Tsukiko.”

Tsukiko brushed that awkwardness off, in a way Haru respected. “No, I do not disagree. Obviously, it would have been better not to die, but… after a brief slumber, I am alive once more. And…” She turned her crimson gaze on Bianca-san, who was silently holding her glass of brandy in both hands, contemplative and confused by recent events. “…we are told that these artificial bodies, these Material Throne forms, can do anything that our original human bodies could. You can live an ordinary life again, if you so wish. Though… I would hope you choose another path.” Tsukiko took a sip of the brandy and sighed contentedly. “I was never much one for drinking, but I have the taste for it now.”

“It’s hard not to.” Haru snickered, taking a warming sip of her own fiery liquor. It’s good as always. One of the perks of the job. “Shaeula’s a fiend for it. Both Fae and Yōkai seem to love alcohol, so she’s got twice the appetite. Besides… you’ve got a lot of friendly sisters to spend time with, and a few drinks make conversation flow.”

“I do.” Tsukiko agreed. “As do you, Haru. Yes, still awkward, but I will get used to the informality. I am changing. We all are. You will too, Albua-san.”

“Call me Bianca.” The pale woman insisted, before she finally took a sip of her brandy. “This… is good. I… thought I would never do so many things again. Being a living corpse, a puppet, not in control of myself, yet still able to feel fear, pain, sorrow…”

“Yes.” Na-san agreed. “I know it well. I wasn’t dead…” she shook her head, pensive. “…not until the end, when that bastard betrayed me… but I was being dominated by a parasite who was going to kill me. But… I wanted to prolong my life, even if by one more second, even if it was at the expense of morality, dignity… death. Death is frightening, dark and cold. When my head was cut free… I felt it.” Na-san shuddered, and Haru subtly released a little Light Of Muted Emotions, getting a grateful glance in return. To me, death was a blissful descent away from the light and heat of hell. But… my return as an Onryō was indeed dark and cold. Kiku, she… was insane. Kind and cruel in equal measure. I never wanted to live again, but… I’m able to say I’m glad I did. Surina and the others have a chance at a new life too…

“Yes, but you chose to grasp my hand. And have a second chance. It’s not so bad, is it? I know you often hang around with Ling-san, who didn’t die, but…” Haru added, and Na-san frowned.

“Indeed. I… don’t mean to be offensive, but sometimes we long for the company of those who share our culture. I could talk to Matriarch Zhao, but… Cultivators aren’t really the same sort of ordinary Chinese woman as I was. Ling, she’s… still rather bitter, but she’s become accustomed to the work, and sometimes she’s even a little fun to be around.” She paused, sipping at her brandy before speaking again, gazing at Bianca-san intently. “I expect she’s got a lot in common with you… Bianca. Ling was an ordinary woman, in every sense of the word. I was too, of course, but… anyway, she was like me, wanting to live, even though she knew it was futile, that the golden monster couldn’t be trusted. But we’d seen those who had any sort of bravery or dignity, rebellion or fight in them, and their ends were hideous.” She shuddered, and Haru intensified her Light.

“Thank you. That helps… honestly, I’m still terrified of him… it? It’s hard to know if it even has a gender. The fact that it’s still out there torments me. Torments Ling too, yet…” She took a deep breath. “…we’re safe here. You can be safe here too, Bianca. This Church, they cannot harm you again here. This is a den of a… different sort of monster.”

“How rude.” Haru chuckled, and Na-san lowered her brown eyes for a moment in embarrassment, before Haru grinned.

“You know I’m just joking, Na-san. Gallows humour. Post-gallows humour. You’re not wrong though. We’ll have the reckoning with that creature soon enough. For Tsukiko’s sake, if nothing else.”

“No, I do not require vengeance. For my life is fulfilling enough. For Yukiko’s sake, as she cannot be allowed to fall to the beast. Not just for the sake of the world, but because… she is my dearest friend.” She then paused, a faint blush on her perfect cheeks, and it was enough to distract Haru from the constant Telepathic chatter for a moment. It must be difficult for some of them. To compare themselves to Tsukiko and Shiro, to Taṇhā, to Valkyries… but none of them surrender, they are all convinced of their worth to him, their own self-worth. I… have worth too. And not just in handling all his messes!

“You are a dear friend too, Haru.” Tsukiko clarified. “And I do not know you well, Chen-san…”

“There’s no need for that…” Na-san grumbled, and Tsukiko corrected herself.

“Na-san, then. Nor do I know you, Bianca-san, but… we will have a long time together. Though if you wish to see your friends and family again…”

“I do. Of course I do.” Listening to the stories, drinking more of the strong Fae alcohol as Haru kept topping up her glass, Bianca-san had relaxed a little, though now her expression was surly and bitter, as if she felt more comfortable sharing her true thoughts with those like her. “I never wanted this, never asked for it! When the Iele of Mokosh came to me, promising me greatness, I thought it a joke, you know?” She took a long gulp of brandy, and Haru nodded, brown eyes shimmering with a faint blue haze.

“Oh, very much so. I thought I was having a mental breakdown. Psychosis, or perhaps even worse, schizophrenia. The drugs the doctor put me on didn’t help, and why would they? It wasn’t a dream, or a joke. It was real. Honestly, the Gods are cruel. Oh, don’t tell Tan I said that…” Haru managed a quiet giggle. “While she wouldn’t deny it, I don’t want to criticise her. But many of us just aren’t equipped to be Astral Emperors… well, Empresses, in our case.” It was something Haru had considered a lot recently. “But… that’s largely the fault of the sponsor behind the Church that pursued you, Bianca-san.”

Warming to the subject, Haru continued her explanation. “At first glance, a lot of the Favours that seem useless really aren’t. Though you are a special case, Tsukiko. I don’t think you were ever meant to win…”

“Yes. I was always meant to die, it seems. I… admit to being much angrier about that than I believed I would be. Perhaps it is because I now have seen what I had to live for. But do go on.”

“Thanks, Tsukiko. This brandy really is good. Best get out another bottle, but… I don’t think I should be drunk for later. Things… might go badly if I am.” It’s not hard for my ghostly body to purge physical toxins like alcohol. After all, I am a spirit… in the literal, not the metaphysical sense. “But for now, it’s relaxing, and helps our little chat, doesn’t it? Anyway… my Favour, for one, seems rather useless. But actually, if used properly, I’d be competitive. Telepathy can be a combat Skill, and the Lights I was granted can indeed affect the minds of my opponents, giving openings. I could even use Telepathy to find targets others wouldn’t, or strip out secrets and knowledge, growing my power. Not too dissimilar to how it is now, actually.”

As if to prove a point, she was mentally communicating with Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan, as while everyone was starting to celebrate the effective end of the lengthy Pilgrimage, some few were still working over stubborn problems with learning elements or other techniques.

“As for you, Bianca-san… plant growth and enhancement seems useless, but…”

Na-san shuddered. “That monster maid… my apologies, Hyacinth… she can do dreadful, terrible things with such energies. Even just her grasping, choking vines… yes, you would be far from helpless when you learn how to properly control your gift.”

“Even if I did…” Bianca-san countered. “…I would still have been defeated by the Church that hunted me, their fanatics. All I wanted was to be left alone. That’s why… I can’t see my family or friends again. It’ll just put them in danger. Besides… I died.”

“Yes, you did.” Haru agreed. “I did too. But I live with daddy again, see most of my old friends… Tsukiko reconciled with her parents. Na-san can’t really go home, not until the situation in China is resolved, but it’s not like she can’t ever. Yes, you’re right. It’s too dangerous to leave right now, the Church has a use for you. But so do we… and we’re all far nicer about it. Well, so long as you don’t hate overtime, that is.”

“The Church of True Revelation have touched Akio’s reverse scale, as Daiyu calls it.” Tsukiko reassured Bianca-san. “They dared to try and kill us while Akio was absent. If you attack him, or even face us honestly, there is grounds for compromise and alliance when the dusts of battle settle. But come with treachery, malice and go after those he cherishes… it is as Taṇhā told us. He threatened to become a worse monster, to even burn down Taṇhā’s Pantheon, innocents be damned, if she did not help him save Shiro…”

“Best get used to calling her Tan…” Haru chuckled, and Tsukiko nodded, embarrassed.

“I try my best. But referring to the Gods with respect has always been my duty. Still… Tan knows better than anyone Akio is an unfair man. Though to us, it is sweet poison. No, the Church, if it does not truly repent, the only course of action is to battle until only one side remains. So take heart, Bianca-san. When they are gone, and Akio brings peace to the world, you can live a life you choose. Though I suspect…” Tsukiko exchanged a wry glance with Haru, who nodded.

“…you’ve got a lucrative career in Tree maintenance in your future. Don’t worry, Asha’s very kind. Anyway, the pay and benefits can’t be topped. Barring the overtime.” Haru felt the need to repeat that. “For now, if you’ve got family you want to immigrate to Japan, we can arrange that. Relatives of special passport holders shouldn’t have any problems passing the screenings. Or if… and we probably understand this better than anyone…” Nods from Tsukiko and Na-chan. “…you want to hold off meeting them, until you feel ready, that’s fine too. Though you do have one advantage, and it shouldn’t be overlooked, Bianca-san.”

“Oh? What’s that?” she asked, her bitterness and confusion from earlier giving way to curiosity.

“I doubt those that loved you even know you’re dead. They might think you missing, but that could be explained by any number of ordinary issues. The life of a working adult is hard. The death too…” Haru shrugged. “…at least your parents didn’t attend your funeral, see your body, burn you to ashes, place your remains in the ceremonial urn, like Tsukiko’s did.”

“Your father had it worse.” Tsukiko shook her head. “To receive just your severed hand, and to know what had been done to you in life…”

Na-san rolled her eyes and snorted bitterly, addressing the bemused Bianca-san. “I can’t say my end was pleasant, but I wasn’t surrounded by friends and family, we slaves of that bastard toad all hated each other, feared each other too. But I’m not competing over such a stupid thing…”

Bianca-san’s lips trembled, and then she burst out laughing, wheezing. When she was done, she took a deep gulp of the brandy, wiping her mouth carelessly. “Yes, it is foolish. But it’s… lively. Even though we’re all dead, yes?”

“That’s the spirit.” Haru chuckled. “No, we’re the spirits, and so is this.” She topped up everyone’s glasses once again, before glancing at her watch, that unexpected but precious Christmas gift. “Oh, soon… I have an appointment. I’m…” she realised her hand was shaking, and Tsukiko reached out and gently patted her shoulder, like Akio did for Tsukiko when she was troubled.

“You do not have to push yourself, you know? And do not worry over Bianca-san…” Tsukiko smiled at Na-san and Bianca-san. “…I daresay the two of you can pass the night together, keep each other company?”

“I’ll bring Ling over. She’s a bit annoying, but she can sympathise with being in exile. And perhaps in being overworked. The Pilgrimage has been hellish for her, she complains.”

“I… suppose that’s fine.” Bianca-san agreed, managing a smile. “I’m just… on edge. It has been… just awful.”

“Yes. I imagine it has been.” Haru took a deep breath before gently touching Tsukiko’s hand. Warm. Even though we’re dead. No, I won’t let being dead hold me back any longer. I can… I have… to do this. “I’m fine Tsukiko. But thank you. It’s… just a lingering trauma response. But if I don’t face it, I can never fully move on. And that’s the greatest vengeance of all on those who took our lives.” She managed to wink at Bianca-san. “So to get your revenge on the Church, stay with us, Bianca-san. The work is hard, but the perks are great, and it’s… honestly a lot of fun. Terrifying, heart-stopping fun most of the time, but… we’re already dead, we’ve tasted the worst, so… what’s left to fear?”

Yes. What is to fear? I’m not forcing myself, I’m simply… finally making the choice. Before I knew it, I was captured, like a poor hapless ghost in that old film Aiko-chan showed me on her phone that one time. Though there’s no lightning involved, fortunately, just… I’m like an asteroid, pulled in by gravity. His presence looms large over all my thoughts, over everything I do. But… I’m happy that’s the case…

“Yes, I only fear I’m going to have a trying time later…” Haru took one last sip of her brandy, before sobering up, the alcohol having no purchase on a ghost when she willed it so. “…but even that’s from a place of care. You’ll see too, Bianca-san. So… I know it’s been sudden, that you’ve been a pawn, tormented and betrayed. But we can understand your pain, and here, there’s no shortage of those who’ll offer you a hand if you reciprocate. But for tonight…” Haru smiled warmly. “…just celebrate with us. Tomorrow we’ll start integrating you properly into your new afterlife. So consider how you want it to be. As for me…” She took a deep breath. “…are you coming, Tsukiko?”

“Of course.” she agreed. “I too wish to celebrate with everyone. I would wish you good fortune, but… be honest, be yourself, and you will not need it. I guarantee it.”

“Oh, and is Tsukuyomi telling you that?” Haru couldn’t resist teasing, and Tsukiko shook her head, smile gentle and kind.

“As you are well aware, I have no need of the wisdom of the Gods to know Akio, and to know you. So… unburden yourself and enjoy a well-deserved spoiling. Few have worked harder to make this Pilgrimage a success than you have, Haru.”

That’s true. It’s been tough, but… also very satisfying. And speaking of satisfaction…  “No, we’ve all played our parts.” Saying her farewells to Na-san and Binaca-san, Haru was sure she could hear her heart beating wildly, as impossible as that was for her. Yes, I may not have a heartbeat anymore, at least not in my Onryō form, but… I know I still have a heart…

***

“I’m feeling a little embarrassed, you know.” Eleanor remarked, as she sat down on the offered chair. “Even we Brits have heard of Mount Fuji. To think you’ve claimed it for your own… very impressive.” Taking a sip of the offered tea, which Hyacinth had silently placed down, she appreciated the tot of Fae brandy in it. Yes, I can use the stress relief. Grandmother is running me ragged preparing for the first… normally New Year’s Honours isn’t such a big fuss. But this time… she’s got the bit between her teeth for sure, the pageantry and pomp are going to be beyond anything we’ve seen since the Coronation… even the Diamond Jubilee celebrations won’t compare.

“There’s no need to be ashamed.” Shiro smirked. “Aki’s just a go-getter, and he’s got us, his capable subordinates. No need to get all red in the face.”

“Oh, while I am envious, that’s not what’s bothering me, Shiro.” It wasn’t just Shiro who was here, of course. Arisu had come and fetched Eleanor once she entered the Ring Gate, for this ‘meeting of the Princesses’ as Shaeula had termed it. In addition to Shiro and Shaeula, Yukiko was here as well, and while Hyacinth was clearly here with intent to serve as a maid during the meeting, Eri was present too, sitting with her arms folded, a pensive expression on her face. With her was a woman, rather too thin and frail, with pale skin, and marvellous rose-gold hair and captivating, multichromatic eyes with e metallic tinge. Ileana, yes?

An older woman was with her too, likely her grandmother. Eleanor had heard the reports from Sir Arthur and had received further correspondence over the group chat she shared with the others here. Though to think she was actually a Vampire, or close enough. The world truly is a strange place.

“I was merely… oh, I suppose it doesn’t really matter.” She took another sip of her tea, nodding at Hyacinth, who definitely seemed… calmer… for want of a better expression.

“Thinking of later then?” Shiro pressed, a teasing smirk on her beautiful face.

“Don’t worry.” Yukiko spoke up, also flushed. “You… don’t have to go too far. I won’t be. It’s just… I don’t like feeling entirely left out, not now. But your announcement isn’t official yet, Eleanor, so…”

“I’m a grown woman. I know what goes on between men and women. And while yes, I suppose you could say I’m rather shy and restrained, I’m not entirely uninterested. But I shall mostly be… observing. And do stop laughing, Shaeula. Please.”

As Shaeula snickered, Eri shook her head. “I get it. Don’t mind her. Besides, we’re here for serious matters.” She waved a hand at Ileana and Valeska, both of whom seemed nervous, especially Valeska, who seemed to recognise Eleanor, most likely from the news or some foreign tabloid.

“Yes, I suppose we are.” Eleanor agreed. “So, you’re one of us, are you? It’s not entirely confirmed, is it?”

At her words, Ileana seemed uncertain, but Eri was composed. “I may not be a Princess of the Six Paths, but I’ve experience in these matters. It all fits perfectly, and while the Oracle Engine hasn’t conclusively confirmed it, the circumstantial evidence is solid, and we’ll have a chance to run some further questions past it, and also Yasaka-san, when he recovers a bit more. His Book may be lost, but he still has some remnant talent. We’ll be certain soon enough. Even if not though…” Eri glanced at Shaeula, her laughter now under control, who nodded fiercely.

“Yes, you will not-not be discarded or looked down on if you are not-not the Princess of Hell, Ileana. We do not-not leave females in peril, regardless of who they are. No, for now-now, we simply welcome you. Besides…” her smirk was teasing. “…have you not-not delighted in tasting Akio’s rich blood?” Shaeula suddenly licked her own lips. “I find other secretions far-far more wonderful…”

“That’s enough of that!” Eleanor flushed crimson, feeling exasperated amusement. Shaeula never changes. I suppose I should respect her boldness. “I don’t think Miss Ileana and her… grandmother… appreciate the crass humour. They must be nervous enough as it is.”

“I will not deny it.” Ileana’s English was flawless, with a British accent, oddly enough, further attesting to the accuracy of Sir Arthur’s reporting. “While I very much appreciate the asylum offered to my blood child and I, and we finally feel a measure of relief from the constant fear of being hunted, there is too much which confuses and troubles me.”

“Unsurprising. I know just how you feel.” Elanor admitted. The look she received from Hyacinth, who used to rather despise her, was actually rather amused and tender, and Eleanor felt her face heating up again, though she struggled to keep her cool. “I too found myself in strange circumstances and hardly made the best of such things. And the women here, our fellow Princesses…” She shared her smile with the others. “…are all rather… unique. But also extremely reliable.” She nodded to Shaeula, Shiro and Hyacinth. “…after all, were it not for them, I would likely already be dead or worse, and Britain in a catastrophic state. It seems we have the same problems, Miss Ileana, Ms Valeska.”

“Yes, that Church.” Shiro agreed. “Shit, what a bunch of damn fools. Sure, we’re all competing, but they’re just bastards. Going after the weak and trying all sorts of dirty tricks. But don’t worry, it’s just like we’ve told you, Ileana. Last time they tried to get the drop on us when Aki wasn’t here, it cost them a Cardinal, as well as a lot of their forces. And we’re stronger than ever! Stick with us, and we’ll keep each other safe.”

“It’s true.” Eleanor admitted. “The grudge between us won’t be any worse protecting you from them. With Mary Stuart dead at our hands too, reconciliation seems impossible. And… I heard. About the trap they set. Using refugees as weapons. How very… unchristian… of them. I’m hardly devout, being Church of England, but… I do try and at least live by the teachings.”

“It is… medieval thinking.” Valeska spoke up. “My little light is ignorant of much of the dark side of the world, despite the fall of her family. But I am no foolish old woman. The Inquisition, Witch Hunts… no doubt this Church of True Revelation is the same. Our deaths are for our own good, we’ll get our reward in Heaven, they would doubtless insist. La Dracu, may the Devil take their arrogance. Who are they to speak for God?”

“Speaking for a God, or a Goddess, isn’t so hard nowadays.” Shiro chuckled. “I do it all the time, though…” As one eye darkened to crimson her voice changed.

“I can speak for myself, princess.”

“Yes, you can, Tan. Anyway, we’re getting off the subject. Our point is, we know you have been thrust into an odd situation, Ileana, and we want to allay as many of your fears, make you as comfortable as we can. And… there are four others in your situation, us. No, five, I guess, but we don’t know the fifth yet.”

“There is… a lot to be concerned about.” Ileana frowned, and Eleanor found herself rather intrigued by the small fangs protruding from her mouth, though when she saw her looking, Ileana quickly closed er mouth and hid it with her hand.

Oh no, that was very rude of me. “My apologies, I hope I didn’t cause any offense. I certainly have no particular prejudices against those who aren’t entirely human, nor even those who clearly aren’t. How could I?” She shrugged self-deprecatingly. “I owe my life to them, and… I’ll be marrying someone who has transcended his humanity.” It’s still embarrassing, but it doesn’t feel so bad saying it now. Grandmother was right, we can get used to anything, if… if it’s something we want.

“I… my tutors… and siblings told me not to reveal myself carelessly to ordinary humans. I fear… I forgot that lesson, since my tension has loosened.” Ileana stammered.

“Oh, that’s a good thing to clear up.” Eri spoke up. “Oh, and I’m here as Akio’s first wife today, and to keep Shiro and Shaeula in line. Haru… her ability to read minds, I imagine it must be… troubling. Honestly, I don’t even think about it…”

“Yes, you never think anything you are not-not prepared to say, do you, Eri?” Shaeula snorted. “I do greatly-greatly admire your blunt, straightforward nature.”

“Some would say I’m just rude…” Eri’s cat ears flickered a little.

“No way, honest is better.” Shiro insisted, and Yukiko spoke up as well.

“I think you just follow Akio’s lead on that. Even I’ve stopped thinking about it. But in your case Eri, you’re always in Akio’s mind anyway, and he in yours if he wishes.”

Eri nodded. “Yes, so I just accept it as natural. But… Haru wouldn’t pry where it’s not warranted. She does constantly scan people’s surface thoughts to watch out for danger, but she won’t dig deep unless she has cause. From what I understand…”

“Your thoughts were screaming that you wanted Aki’s blood.” Shiro chuckled. “Not the usual…”

“Shiro!” Eri warned, and her chuckles became loud guffaws.

“All right, I get it. Shit, made that joke already anyway. Shaeula, you’re up.”

The small Fae nodded, her eyes glowing a pretty amber. “Yes-yes. You see, my Mystic Eyes can see-see the flow of aether and elemental energies within your body, your Chakra network. I can see more-more now, honestly, as my affinity for Akio’s Eyes grows. My Chirurgery has fallen far-far behind Akio’s, yet I am still keenly aware of just what-what happens within a network. And you… I could tell that you needed blood, not-not merely blood, but the aether lingering within it.”

Ileana swallowed, still hiding her mouth. “We can endure without blood. We are not beasts.”

“Nobody said you were.” Eri soothed. “And you’ve clarified that drinking blood doesn’t create more of your kind, so honestly, as long as you are taking from Akio, there’s not really a problem. I very much doubt you could drain him dry. Though perhaps we should have discussed it a bit more first.”

Eleanor, who had been listening, nodded. “It seems so. But then, in a way, I admire how proactive, how decisive you all are. I’m rather more of a contemplator, a worrier. I suppose it comes from being rather slow on the update and not that bright.”

“Me too.” Yukiko agreed. “Though I’m getting bolder, so Tsukiko says.”

“You sure are, Yuki. I approve!” Shiro gave her a thumbs-up.

“That aside, while it may seem only natural to give a starving man food, or money to a poor beggar sleeping rough, it’s not always the best way.” Eleanor insisted. “You were hasty. I know why… if she’s one of us, as predicted by Tsukiko, then you only wanted to relieve her cravings and give her a better opinion of Akio and of us, yes?”

“Guilty as charged.” Shiro agreed. “I think Haru was aware of that. But…”

“We really meant no harm, honestly.” Eri promised. “But… yes, we got carried away.”

“You did indeed.” Valeska crossed her arms. “But… you did do it out of concern for her. It’s… a world I never knew existed. Mind-readers, young Vampires… oh, don’t pout at me so, little light, I know you are no Strigoi, but it’s an understandable descriptor.” She rubbed at her forehead. “I simply must learn more English, this damnable device gives me such a headache. Regardless, this world is strange. That giant. He must have been a hundred metres tall! Taller than the spire of the cathedral in Sibiu. It’s… not a world we know, little light. So I think seeking refuge is fine. But…”

Eleanor smiled at her sudden glower. She reminds me of grandmother. Fiery, opinionated, and fiercely protective of her family. Found family, in this case. From what I’ve heard, Valeska is certainly a kind woman, and a hero. Giving charity isn’t easy when one isn’t wealthy, and to risk one’s own life for a stranger…

“…but Ileana is a young maiden. I don’t want her to pick up bad habits, and I certainly don’t want her heart broken, and hr reputation sullied. Understand?”

“Absolutely.” Eleanor agreed. “But… and take it from me, if you are one of these Princesses, you definitely don’t wish to face your trial alone. I’d have died, certainly. As for… heartbreak…” She shook her head. Yes, I was judgemental, without knowing all the facts, everyone’s feelings, any extenuating circumstances. I can learn my lessons, I may be an idiot, but I’m not a fool…

“…I think it’s fine to set that aside for now. What matters is establishing a training regime, correct?”

“You are learning, Eleanor. It is most-most gratifying to see.” Shaeula teased her. “Yes-yes. Both of you must grow stronger. But with your unique constitutions, I dare say there is much-much strength in you both to unlock. And we will learn from you both too.” She paused for a moment, grinning wolfishly. “I do not-not think Fate is cruel enough to make you a Princess of the Six Paths without a path to power, Ileana. I was weak, feebly so… yet now I am strong.”

“Me too.” Shiro agreed. “If not for Tan and Aki, I’d already be dead.”

“As for me, without Amaterasu’s power, I’d be helpless.” Yukiko agreed, and lastly, Eleanor nodded.

“Even now I’m quite the helpless woman.” She thumped her chest with one fist. “Though I am durable. Still… even I can learn, and we Windsors aren’t renowned for our academics.” She raised her hand, water droplets forming, firing some liquid bullets into the ground, leaving small yet deep holes in the stone.

“You had a good teacher.” Eri joked, and Eleanor nodded.

“I did indeed. A patient one too, despite my many missteps, and terrible rudeness. I too was wary of Akio’s philandering ways. I suppose I still have some concerns…” It seems that there was an incident during the Pilgrimage with Shige Fujiwara’s daughter. I’ll have to hear about it later, from all involved… knowing them though, I am sure it isn’t a problem that can’t be resolved. I’ll give my input of course, but… grandmother said listen often, speak rarely. I can do that rather than overreact. “…but your granddaughter is in safe hands, I assure you.”

“Yes. It’s too early to worry about that.” Eri agreed. “Here’s our suggestions, which we think are for the best currently. Regular access to Akio’s blood, for both health and study benefits. This will allow us to understand how you can be trained. Don’t worry though, it’s not all work.”

“It’s true.” Yukiko agreed, taking a fresh mug of tea from the smiling Hyacinth. “While the training is hard, there’s plenty of fun and joy to be found too. After all, resting is just as much a part of training as the effort itself.”

“I’ve heard that line before.” Shiro chuckled. “Anyway, don’t be shy. We might have overstepped a little…”

“As always…” Eleanor added, getting a wink in return.

“…but we know you need the blood. Aki’s more than happy to be your blood bank, Ileana.”

“In addition…” Eri broke in. “…we’ll try and see if any more of your family or kin survive. It won’t be easy, but with the Oracle Engine it might be possible. I just hope they won’t be hostile…”

Ileana frowned, contemplating that. “I fear… my family, all their blood children, are long vanished from this world, else I would not have been slumbering in that lonely place for so very long. If others of our kind survive… it pains me to say it, but not all of them could restrain themselves. My tutors taught me some families were… predatory, killing and drinking dry humans, forcibly creating blood children. Perhaps…” Ileana pursed her lips, glancing at her grandmother. “…they are the basis of rumours of these Strigoi and other cruel beasts. If so, I have no relation to them…”

“Indeed, little light.” Valeska reached out and petted her head tenderly. “I know. No more than I consider myself family to those Church swine, despite us all being human. If they even are…”

A question I ask myself a lot. Still, Mary Stuart’s end… Sarah’s bitter regrets… I can’t ever like the way they do things. And these women here have done nothing to deserve being persecuted… “What matters is we don’t let them win.” Eleanor insisted. “I’m more than happy to help in the search. I don’t know what I can do, but if I ask the Prime Minister…”

“Thank you.” Ileana’s eyes blurred, now shimmering with water. “I know Valeska worries for me, and I am so very thankful, but… I think here, here is full of good people.”

“I’ll reserve judgement, one of us has to be cautious, little light…” Valeska countered. “…but I’m not ungrateful. Just overprotective. After all… you’re all I have now, Ileana.”

“Not true.” Eleanor shook her head. “That’s what I didn’t grasp. It’s about family. Not merely physical…”

“What are you talking about?” Shiro asked, and Eleanor flushed. I was supposed to be listening more, talking less. Old habits, I suppose, but…

“My apologies. I meant that Akio’s relationships seem on the surface to be him being greedy and indecisive, but it’s actually those who seek love and a family coming together.”

“You understand it well.” Eri approved. “It’s rude to talk about adult intimacy in front of those who haven’t experienced it…” Eleanor felt a sting at that, and exchanged a rueful, smiling glance with Yukiko. “…and it’s definitely a wonderful thing, but we’re happy enough just spending time with Akio, with each other. Aren’t we?”

Shiro nodded. “Yeah, never a dull moment anymore.”

“Indeed. I believe most-most fervently that life is simply more fun the more of us there are. Though…” Shaeula winked at Eri. “…I promise, I am not-not recruiting recklessly anymore. Akio is quite-quite capable of making his own choices. Of course…” She then smiled at Ileana. “…if the day should-should come when you seek his affection, I am more-more than happy to help you approach him, win-win him over.”

“I think talk of romance is rather premature.” Valeska changed the subject, and Eleanor agreed. “Still, this talk has helped clear the air. We’re… out of our depth here. But… we witnessed the contest with the giant. It was… like something out of a myth.”

“I liked that everyone didn’t fight, that it was resolved peacefully.” Ileana added.

“If ooonly it could always be that way.” Hyacinth spoke for the first time in a while. “Sadly, Hyacinth knows the world can be cruel. But I also knooow that we will fight to make it better, if we must. Yet… friends are always welcooome, and we never abandon them. Yooou are our friends now, no?”

“Yes, I guess we are.” Valeska agreed, and Ileana smiled, her fangs showing again.

“Well then…” Eleanor finished her tea. “…I’m told Akio is… busy… for a little while.”

“Yeah, Haru’s got him booked up first, then there’s our fox friends…” Shiro added, smirking as Shaeula rolled her eyes. “…but after that, we’ve got Aki to ourselves all night.” She then nodded at Valeska and Ileana. “Don’t worry, if you two want some company, we’ll send some your way…”

As the heavy topics were over now, Eleanor leaned back in her chair. Tonight, hmm? No, it’s far too soon for any such shenanigans. I am not going to get into a scandal before my engagement is even formally announced. Besides… she bit her lip pensively. …grandmother is going all out. If I ruin her fun, I’ll never hear the end of it. But… she exchanged glances with Yukiko again, who flushed a deep scarlet, yet managed a reassuring smile. …when I’m with a good friend in the same boat, I won’t be so nervous, and… I did love my Christmas Eve date, so being left out of the other festivities entirely is… not a pleasant feeling…

With one final glance at the strange pair who had escaped from Romania, the frail, pale Dhampir and her elderly yet strong grandmother-through-adversity, Eleanor shook her head. Princess of Hell, is she? Poor woman. Her circumstances are truly tragic. Yes, I’ll definitely befriend her, be a woman she can talk to, about… well, about anything, I suppose!