On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

This was quite the day. Fortunately everything seems to have gone off without a hitch. Largely. Elizabeth had been surprised when the Pope had asked to attend the New Year Honours but had soon grasped the political implications. It was the only way he could meet young Akio without attracting ire from the insurrectionist Church of True Revelation front. What abject fools. One’s relationship with their God should be a matter of privacy, not forced upon others. Though as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, I suppose I should perhaps feel more strongly about such things.

She glanced around at the departing guests, and the greater number who were remaining. Though speaking of personal relationships with God… her gaze fixed on Shiro, her new Stranger Lady, and Taṇhā within her. I can hardly believe I Honoured a Goddess. Still, she seems remarkably good-natured. What a world. I’m just glad I am alive to see it. Though my dear Eleanor has it rough. Yet…

Watching her chatting with the guests as they departed, more animated than she had seen her in months, a smile curved her lips. “It’s certainly been a good day.”

“What was that, grandmother?” Henry asked, as he had stayed behind while young Richard was helping see off the guests, having the less than desirable job of sending away the President of the United States, promising that Akio would be available for discussion another day.

“Oh, just saying that your sister seems rather delighted today.”

“Yes, Ellie’s radiant. It’s a bit of a conundrum for me, honestly. What brother doesn’t want his sister to find love? But… the ballroom’s full of other women Akio loves too. I’m conflicted. He did save our lives, after all. And has given Ellie a lot.”

“As long as he gives Eleanor love, happiness and support, I suppose it doesn’t matter. Eleanor has a harsh duty. Who can blame her for snatching solace where she can, no matter how unconventional? But speaking of brothers and sisters…” Elizabeth narrowed her still vibrant blue eyes as she glanced over at young Aiko. “…what do you make of it all, Henry?”

“She’s a lively one. But please don’t suggest I have to woo her, grandmother. Mel would kill me if I brought home another woman. She’s not here today as she doesn’t believe in it. Though… she’s come to understand Ellie’s and Akio’s position on the matter. Like it or not, we’re all going to be family.”

“Don’t be a fool, Henry.” Elizabeth snorted. “You think very highly of yourself, don’t you?”

“Guilty as charged. But… yes, she’s certainly charming enough, in a rather forward fashion. Perhaps it’s her mother’s influence, but she doesn’t seem very reserved, like the Japanese we are used to.”

“Yes, you’re quite right. I think perhaps…” Steepling her fingers, Elizabeth considered the young woman. With her black hair so dark as to almost be blue, complimenting the vivid sapphire hues of her eyes, she was certainly a beautiful young woman, Japanese in appearance, with just hints of Western ancestry. Her smile was certainly infectious, but Elizabeth spotted slight hesitation now and then, as if she was holding herself back, or pondering some problem deeply. And from the reports the Palace staffers passed over… hmm. It’s the duty of the old to listen to the problems of the young and offer advice, I suppose…

“…we should have a little chat. Woman to woman. Henry, be a dear and make sure everyone is shown to a more intimate setting while I’m busy.”

“Yes, but which rooms? Akio’s extended family is enormous. Even with the casual guests he brought along leaving for their own chambers, finding somewhere to house everyone in comfort…”

“Open up the White Drawing Room and the surrounding state rooms. That way everyone can mingle, but there is space for more intimate discussions. Notify the servants to prepare snacks and drinks too. Young Akio must be especially thirsty, why, the poor boy barely had time to breathe, all he did was dance…”

“Don’t pity him, grandmother. No man would sympathise. If he was serving, the boys would take him out back and give him a damn good hazing for hoarding the wealth!”

“They’d try, my boy, they’d try.”

“True.” Henry laughed, running a hand through his hair in that boyish manner which showed he’d never truly grown up. I’m so glad Henry didn’t die from his foolish urge to help Eleanor. He’s a good older brother, if not much else. But again, we have Akio to thank for that. It’s no wonder Eleanor fell for him. If he were single, or even just marrying Princess Mikasa… no, I suppose I had best get used to calling her Yukiko now, there would be fewer problems. Alas yes, Henry is right, getting on for two-dozen other wives. It’s going to be hard and troublesome, but…

Her smile broadened as she remembered Eleanor’s pleas.

“I know you’ll have reservations, grandmother…” Eleanor had said as she sipped at her brandy, her expression resolute. “But I’ve made up my mind. I want to be a part of his, of their world…” Her own blue eyes had brooked no refusal. “I’m a warrior now, a shield for Britain, Chosen of the Green Man, no matter how often my body is broken, I will get up and draw my sword again to fight for you, grandmother, and for the people, and to guard what lies below the Tower. But… if I do that, my heart will wear down and crumble. I’m not that strong, grandmother. I still don’t know why I was chosen. Akio says it’s because I’m the most ‘human’ woman he’s ever met. Do… do you think that’s a compliment?”

Remembering the anxious look on her face was amusing, but the conversation had been serious, and cemented Elizabeth’s wish to see her granddaughter content and protected.

“Anyway, I feel such a hypocrite, after all the abuse I hurled at Akio, but he forgave me. And he understands me. With him, with them… I’m not alone, in a way I can’t feel with Aditi, Mary-Jana, David, Sir Arthur, Callie, Raidre… as unfair as it is to them. I find myself wanting to be there, standing side by side with him, smiling, and laughing, and my chest feels tight and aches, like I’ve been stabbed, yet the pain is sweet. I… never thought I would ever be lovesick, grandmother. I’d feel shame, except… the greatest shame would be to disregard my wishes. If I must give my life for Britain, then I’d like to give my heart to who I choose. Is that so wrong?”

Shaking her head at the memory, Elizabeth chuckled. No, it’s not wrong, dear granddaughter. Selfish, certainly, considering. But who here has earned the right to be so, besides you?

“Go on then, run along.” Elizabeth flipped a hand at her cheeky grandson. “Get to know everyone. There are a lot of names to remember. It’s a good job my memory has improved after young Akio’s medical treatment, or I’d never be able to memorise them all…”

“I think his girlfriends are fairly unforgettable. Ellie’s got strong competition, but she won’t lose. She’s stubborn, when she digs her heels in, she just won’t quit. It’s that British bulldog grit!”

“It runs in the family.” Elizabeth agreed. As her troublesome grandson hurried to do her bidding, she cast her gaze around the room. That’s odd. I don’t see young Akio anywhere. Is he seeing off some of the other guests?

Making up her mind, Elizabeth strolled over to one of the larger groups. She was used to the respectful gazes of others, but it felt a bit burdensome here, as the majority of those present would become part of one huge, extended family, It was hardly a foreign concept to her, the remaining Royal lines of Europe were all rather closely related, but… this family will make all comparison meaningless.

“Ah…” Elizabeth spoke up, seeing her prey… I mean target…  finishing a conversation with Shige’s young granddaughter, Miyu. She found her mood rather amused, looking at her. She’s changed. Shige must be having rather mixed feelings. As am I. Another worthy rival for my granddaughter. But Eleanor is nothing if not persistent. Henry has that right.

“Oh, your Majesty…” Miyu curtsied perfectly despite her tight dress, her English flawless as expected. Young Miyu had gained the same burden as Eleanor, it seemed, though the weight of it was different, as Eleanor had to shoulder an entire country, but even so, Elizabeth could sympathise. Yet… I thought so while watching young Akio dance with her. She seems almost entirely carefree and in the throes of romance. Ah, to be young again…

“Yeah… hi there, your Majesty.” Aiko also pulled off a passable curtsy, seeming a little ill-at-ease.

“Oh, do relax, you two. See? I am speaking informally. Not as the Queen, but as Elizabeth. No, call me Liz, let’s not be stuffy. We’re going to be relatives soon enough, so why stand on ceremony.”

“That’s one hell of a thing for a Queen to say…” Aiko quipped, but her nervousness faded a little. Instead, it was Miyu who was troubled.

“It is far too soon to treat me as such…”

“Miyu’s kind of adorable, even if she was so damn annoying at the start.” Aiko spoke up conspiratorially. “Look, you’ve got nothing to worry about. My bro clearly likes you, and you’ve got everyone’s approval, so it’s just a matter of time. Probably not a long time either. Michiru’s got kind of a dangerous look about her…”

“I do concede if we do not rein her in, she will… go too far.” Miyu smiled, her lips curving gently. “I understand her desires well though. It would have been a magnificent event to give one’s chastity…”

“Wow. Just wow. You two are both perverts.” Aiko snorted down laughter, before realising who she was talking to. “Oh, wow, sorry. I shouldn’t be talking about this in front of you… uh… Liz?”

How simply charming. She’s a very funny girl. But… “I don’t see why not. I did have four children, you know. And I assure you I’m not the Virgin Mary, they were created the usual way.” She winked, and Aiko flushed a deep pink.

“Okay… yeah, my bad. Anyway…” She hastily changed the subject. “Miyu, you’ve nothing to worry about. If you don’t ambush my bro, and instead set the scene properly, then he’ll go with the mood. I’m sure you’ll get a chance soon…”

“Oh, speaking of young Akio, where is your brother?” Elizabeth asked, and Aiko’s face twitched.

“He… uh… had to pop out? But he’ll be back soon.”

“Oh, but I expect you know where he is?” she observed, eyes keen, and Aiko nodded slowly.

“Yeah. I always do.”

“Marvellous.” An opportunity, I suppose. “In that case, I am deeply sorry, young Miyu, and please pass my apologies on to your grandfather, Shige. I’ll no doubt speak to you all later, but…” She reached out and took Aiko’s arm, her grip still firm despite her advanced age. “…I’d dearly love to have a chat with Aiko here. So I must excuse myself.”

“It would be remiss of us to take up your valuable time.” Miyu curtsied again, casting a sympathetic glance at Aiko. “Though I would indeed enjoy talking to you later, as would grandfather. But there are many here who would. So I shall excuse myself.”

With that, Elizabeth smiled gently. “Come then, Aiko my dear. Let’s have a nice, long chat, shall we?”

Her blue eyes rolled at that, but she nodded, and soon they had retired to one of Elizabeth’s personal rooms, a small, comfortable sitting room not far from the White Drawing Room, so the distant, muted buzz of conversation formed a welcome background noise as Elizabeth sank down onto the small sofa, patting it, as if offering Aiko a seat, but the young woman refused, instead taking a comfortable chair and facing her. How adorable. She’s shy. With me, anyway.

“It’s been a long day, hasn’t it?” she remarked, as she reached out for the small side-cabinet beside the sofa, producing a dark glass decanter-like bottle and two rounded, tulip-shaped brandy glasses.

“No kidding. It’s been a long few weeks.” Aiko agreed. “But yeah, I’m glad I don’t need much sleep anymore. We finished… last night… then after doing some other stuff, travelled here…”

Your face is red, young Aiko. Last night, you say? Eleanor won’t talk about it, but I know she was at least somewhat intimate with Akio. Hmm…

Pouring two glasses, generous measures of the rich brown cognac, she glanced back at Aiko. “You’re eighteen, yes, young Aiko? So do you drink?”

“Nineteen this month.” Aiko agreed. “And yeah, dad doesn’t like me drinking, but mom’s more relaxed, and it’s not like it’s easy to get drunk now anyway.”

“I suppose not. Anyway, brandy is an acquired taste, but once you come to appreciate it, you’ll find it pleasing. My personal physician used to nag me to no end to cut back, saying my health wasn’t good, but now… I’m as fit as a fiddle. And I can enjoy all life has to offer again.” Tapping the dark bottle, she smiled. “This is a Rémy Martin Louis the Thirteenth Black Pearl. It’s one of the best you can get that isn’t strictly limited in quantity. All the old ones are vanishing. Like us…” She sighed, pushing the glass along the side table, to Aiko, who took it, giving it a sniff, slightly surprised by the rich fragrance.

“No way. My bro won’t let you die any time soon. It would make Eleanor sad, so…” She took a sip and smiled in satisfaction. “Wow, you’re right. This is good. Strong, but full of flavour. It’s very moreish.” She took another sip, and Elizabeth chuckled.

“I should hope so. It would be around five million yen a bottle.” Aiko’s blue eyes widened at that, before she paused, shrugged, and took another swig.

“Yeah, you shocked me for a minute, then I remembered we don’t need to worry about money anymore. If bro and Hinata have their way, we’ll be richer than you, Liz.”

She’s a cheeky one. Quick to grow numb to a situation too. I like her.

“I’ve heard. I look forward to seeing the fruits of your efforts here in Britain as well. As Milton says, England is supposed to be a green and pleasant land. But I’ve seen Britain change over the years. As for Akio keeping me alive… sadly, such is even beyond God, young Aiko.”

She turned to a picture which sat on the small sideboard, framed in silver, of her, with her deceased husband. “Philip was my rock, my quiet support, my strength and stay while I ruled. To lose him so young was a tragedy.” She took a sip of her cognac, reminiscing, while Aiko watched in solemn silence, her gaze compassionate. “In fact, my whole family was shaking. Charles and Diana were very rocky, both having extra-marital affairs. There are persistent rumours in those damnable tabloids to this day that Henry’s not Charles’ son. Nonsense. He’s definitely of the blood. One can tell by his lack of smarts.” She snorted self-deprecatingly. “But… Eleanor’s unexpected arrival, and the loss of Philip, it brought everyone together, and we muddled on. The British way. Stiff upper lip and stubborn to a fault.”

“I’m sorry for your loss. I never knew my grandparents until just recently. Dad’s died before I was born, and mom’s were here in Britain. And of course, I’ve never had a husband, or even a boyfriend, but… if I imagine my bro dying, leaving me…” She shivered, taking another long sip of her brandy, and Elizabeth tilted out the bottle, topping her up generously.

“Thanks…” Aiko murmured, and Elizabeth nodded knowingly.

It’s as I suspected. Eleanor was quite evasive, but she isn’t the best liar…

“Yes, you must think about it a lot.” Elizabeth nodded, her expression understanding. “After all, what young Akio does is very dangerous.”

“Isn’t it?” Aiko agreed. “I was so angry when I found out I… ah, I’m ashamed of myself now…” Her expression was suddenly downcast, and Elizabeth waited for her to speak, which she finally did.

“When I found out, I attacked Shaeula. I shouldn’t have. It wasn’t even her fault. It’s Ortlinde’s if anyone’s, but it’s not like I don’t understand. I can’t lose him. Nor Eri. We’ve been together since we were kids. Except for when he ditched us.”

“Hardly ditching you. He simply moved to the city to study and find work, yes? You were a poor family, so bettering himself…”

“Yeah, if that was the reason, I’d be unable to blame him. But Shaeula’s clever. For someone not even human, she understands us so well. Akio was running scared. Of Eri… of… of me. And of himself. But I forgive him. After all, in the end, Eri and I, we know how he feels about us.” She became more animated as she drank, her cheeks pink, and at Elizabeth’s odd expression, she grinned.

“Oh? Yeah, I’m just about good enough to use Ether Healing to suppress my stats so I can get drunk. What’s the point of booze if you can’t? But don’t worry, I can sober up in an instant if I need to. After all…” She made a passable imitation of his speech patterns. “…university is dangerous. Guys with bad intentions will seek out pretty girls and ply them with booze, or worse, drug them. It’s rare, but it happens. And a beauty like you will be a prime target!” Aiko snorted with derision, taking another sip. “He’s such a worrier. But I love that about him.” She then paused, smirking. “Oh, and you said not even God can stave off death? Does that mean my bro’s better than God? Trust me, you’ll live to see all your grandkids grow up, Liz. Besides, there are Gods and Gods. As you well know. Quite the stunt, revealing Tan. My bro was stunned, so was Shiro.”

“Yes.” It’s remarkable how candid she is being. But then, after earlier… “It was a gamble, and I suppose it might have some… unforeseen… consequences, but revealing her existence effectively stymies many enemies. After all, who would face the wrath of a true Goddess? Time… time is what we need, yes?”

“No kidding. We’re always looking for ways to save time. Rank Four was huge, but now we need Kyoto, London, and probably somewhere in Korea, sooner or later. Then on to Rank Five, which is crazy expensive, even with Asha’s Tree… uh… Trees… pumping out the cash.”

“It’s all beyond me, I’m afraid. I knew this day would come, though not in my lifetime. But even what was passed down was hardly so… detailed.”

“Yeah, that’s my bro. Always reducing things to numbers. It’s why he was so bad at romance, being a clueless virgin loser all those years, despite Eri totally being into him. Though I guess back then Eri was too young, so I suppose it worked out.” Warming to the subject, Elizabeth’s jovial, motherly warmth loosening her up, Aiko continued to talk. “What would Eri and I gain, if he stayed? How many points of happiness, how many points of dependence would detract from that score… it might be why he’s so damn good at being a Chosen, judging on outcomes, but it’s hopeless as a person. But you know what the worst thing is?”

“If I go by your speech, it was that he never weighed up how many points he would gain?” Elizabeth asked shrewdly, and Aiko nodded fiercely, waving her glass for emphasis. As it was going to spill, the room suddenly glowed green, and the droplets returned to the glass.

“Sorry about that. But yeah, Liz, you get it! He only weighed up our needs. I fucking hate that! Oh, excuse my language. It just pisses me off so much! Wow, this is good stuff, I feel tipsy already! Anyway… yeah. He didn’t get it. Just as he wants to see us happy, we want to see him happy! Much as I love him for when he is prepared to do anything for my sake, it also makes me so… so angry! I don’t want him to just one-sidedly give to me. I want to give back too! Eri’s the same, and Shaeula, and… Eleanor too, I think.”

“Fascinating.” Yes, this is quite interesting. Young Aiko is… unique. It must be hard for her. I wonder just how she ended up this way…

“It’s not so fun.” Aiko shook her head. “But… but you know, I think he gets it now. He came so close at Christmas, only to get it so wrong…”

“Ah yes, the fabled dating day in Japan. It’s very different here, you know?” Elizabeth interjected, and Aiko agreed.

“Yeah, mom says so. But In Japan, it’s for romance. Everyone got their dates…”

“Eleanor was embarrassed and delighted. Henry still teases her about it…”

“As he should, Liz! From what I gather, she was so cold to Akio before, now she’s melted. Where are all the ice queens? No, best not go down that road, or Arisu-chan will thaw, and Shiro will kill me…” Babbling a little, words spilling free, Aiko continued to talk, in-between generous sips of her drink. “But yeah. You already know, don’t you? Your smirk says so, Liz.”

“Of course. I thought you looked adorable, young Aiko.”

She flushed at that. “Eri dressed me up. Eri’s… intense, sometimes. The true yandEri. But yeah, I had so much fun I thought my heart would burst, and bro almost got it, but again, he weighed up the wrong numbers! So frustrating. Hey…” Aiko changed the subject suddenly. “…you know, I’ve killed?”

Elizabeth nodded, grasping the reason for her sudden change of subject. How… adorable. Yet also rather pitiable.

“I suppose you have. It seems cold, but it was in battle, wasn’t it? Young Aiko, my sons all served, my grandsons too. None of them brag about those they’ve killed… well, except young Henry, and he got quite the dressing down. It just isn’t talked about, glorified. Eleanor… she too knows that burden. Though I wish she, and young women like her, such as you, didn’t have to.”

“I’m not looking for sympathy. Eri tells me just to forget about it. She can easily. She’s…well, she’s Eri. She only sees those in her world, those outside it are dust she can sweep away. She’s actually very scary, now I think about it. But… I’m not much better. I’ve always been popular…” She puffed out her chest boastfully, and Elizabeth found she was very much enjoying the conversation. The more she speaks, the more I understand her. She is a woman who has fallen into the cracks of an impossible dream. But perhaps the fact the world is impossibly strange now has given her hope. But hope is both medicine and poison…

“…but I never formed close friendships with anyone. Not my teammates, nor my juniors. Just my bro and Eri. Until Shaeula came. Now my world’s opened up, but my bro and Eri are still at the heart of it, it’s just other people have crept in. Eleanor too, I guess. I like her. Even Hyacinth’s forgiven her, so we don’t make life hard for her. Though it still will be. Bro’s… well, we finally got him to consider his own numbers going up, so first Hyacinth, then Shiro… and it shows no signs of slowing down. Miyu and Michiru, Yu-mi, Haru… of course…” Aiko was suddenly serious. “…if he didn’t love Haru, we’d have to beat some sense into him. If anyone deserves his love, it’s her.”

“Love can’t be forced though, as you well know, young Aiko…”

“Yeah, no kidding. But that was just blatant denial. For good reasons, sure, but… anyway, doesn’t matter. Like I say, I’ve killed. That’s a sin, or a crime, or whatever. My point is, it’s wrong, they say, but… if we don’t fight, people will suffer, innocent people, our families, friends, they’ll die. So is killing wrong or not?”

“It depends on the reason and the intent.” Elizabeth nodded.

“Exactly. Reason and intent. That’s what makes something wrong suddenly right. The world’s complicated, isn’t it?” She finished her glass, and once more Elizabeth topped it up. “I don’t always get it. I’ve never been as clever as my bro or Eri. It just doesn’t seem fair. Who decides what’s good and what’s evil, Liz?”

“A difficult question, young Aiko. But not even the one you want to ask, is it? I imagine Eleanor found you a little… difficult.” What a conundrum. The worst thing is that this was all wrought through kindness and love. Who can blame anyone?

“No kidding. But she started doing just what Akio always did. Suppressing her feelings for the sake of others. I know why. She’s still feeling guilty. But I hated it. Now… now it’s better.” Aiko drained her glass on one gulp.

“Go easy on that, young Aiko. It’s to be savoured. Like life, like love. Rushing seldom gets you where you want to go.” Still, Elizabeth gave her another glass. No point being stingy. And tough talks go better with brandy. Yes, I imagine strait-laced, conservative Eleanor struggles…

“Yeah, she’s not sure what to think, but she’s still a good person at heart. She wants to befriend me, to be there for me. And not just because I’m Akio’s sister. For a Princess she’s awfully down-to-earth. So’s Yukiko. I’m lucky, I guess.”

“Indeed. Eleanor is my treasure. Oh, don’t mistake me, young Aiko, I love all my granddaughters dearly, but Eleanor is special. And now she shall be Queen. The Queen of Humans, I’m told. Yes, it fits. And humans are complicated. What do you want out of life, young Aiko? You’ve danced around it but might as well spit it out. I’m your dear great-grandmother Liz, no need to be shy. I won’t judge.”

“Liar.” Aiko’s tone was harsh but also pained. “Everyone judges. Even me. Worse… I feared what my brother would judge me as. Eri… wow, what did I do to deserve such a friend? She’s a bit frustrating, no, a lot, but she wants me to be happy, even if that means fighting the whole world. Her methods are a bit… no, a lot…” She repeated her earlier words, eyes glimmering with moisture. “…intense, but I know she loves me like I love her. Like we love Akio. It’s just not fair. My Connection, my Bond, it’s just the same as hers, but the world tells me it’s wrong, that I’m a monster, that I’m just dreaming. I can kill someone with my own hands, I can talk with Gods, I can call golden warriors out of nothing and if you called in Prince Henry’s old army buddies, I could wreck them, me, a cute, innocent girl. But if I want to hold hands, if I want to be hugged when I feel sad and fearful, it’s suddenly so wrong?”

Ah, there it is. Though her examples are oddly… simple. “Wrong? I would think nobody would do much more than laugh at you. You had your date, didn’t you? What do you want out of life, young Aiko? And no lying. I promise you this.” Elizabeth steepled her hands together, repeating her earlier question, putting down her glass. “I will not think less of you, and I will not speak of it to anyone. Especially not Eleanor. I just wish to understand you. and console you if I can. After all, you’ll be my great-granddaughter soon, and while I wish you and Eleanor, and all the others, had this cup pass you by, I’m proud of all of you who drank down the bitter responsibility to fight and kill for the world. Now then, drink up, and tell Liz everything, okay my dear?”

***

“…tell Liz everything, okay my dear?”

At her words, Aiko blinked. There was burning weight in her chest, and not just from the alcohol. A need to talk.

Hey, bro. You there?

I’m always with you. Even when Brother’s Bond is closed off, I’m always there.

His reassuring words came back to her, and she smiled momentarily, opening her mouth to answer Liz.

Not always. You ran, bro. From me, from Eri. Fro what you were too frightened to see. Just as I’ve been running. Eri’s the only one of us stubborn enough to never back away from what she wanted. And even she wavered. But seeing you with Shaeula, she realised if she stepped back, even just once more, just a single fearful step, she’d lose you forever, and… losing you was losing herself, everything that made her Eri. I’m no different. Of course I’m not. Eri and I are mirrors, yeah?

No, you’re both yourselves. Nothing more, and nothing needs to be more. So, what are you talking about with the Queen?

Oh, just how I love you, bro.

… … … that’s quite the conversation.

Don’t be a dick, bro, no… Akio. You know how I feel. It’s impossible not to. Brother’s Bond means we share our very spirits. In a way, it’s like sharing our lunar Chakras all the time…

Less sexual, at least. I know it’s my fault, I mean, every time I did that with someone it was definitely lewd, but I also trusted Shaeula, and it turns out her lack of experience made her mistake it. Miyu and Michiru…

Hey, no talking about other girls now, Akio. I’m talking about us.

I know. It’s… troublesome… isn’t it?

That’s a damn understatement. I have so many conflicted thoughts and feelings, but I can’t ever back down. I just want our Connection to be ours, nobody else telling us what it is or what it should be. That’s it. Simple. But life seldom is. Nor fair.

I told you. I’d do whatever you needed to be happy… but that wasn’t what you wanted to hear, or needed to. But you make mistakes just like I do, sis.

I know. I know, okay? Wow damn, this is mortifying. I get it. If I’m happy, you’re happy. But that still isn’t enough for me. Would it be for Eri, for Shaeula, or Shiro, Hinata, Daiyu, Eleanor, any of them? As your sister, it wouldn’t have been enough for me either. I’m not going to constantly take, I want to give too. But it’s rough…

Maybe so. But we have a Connection that, as you said, can never be severed. It can change, adapt, be anything you… we… want it to be. It’s ours. And it’s unique. Just as Eri’s is. Or indeed Shaeula’s and everyone else’s.

Yes. And I’m grateful. I’m a selfish, awkward little sister, aren’t I?

Yes, but you’re my little sis sapphire. A blue one. That’s ‘truth’ in the meaning of jewels, isn’t it? So I’m glad you finally opened up and stopped lying. To me, and to yourself. The worst, hurtful falsehoods are the ones we tell ourselves.

And I’m glad you finally can’t avert your eyes from things you don’t want to see.

Why would I want to look away from you, Aiko? So… relax. I’ll be back soon.

I am relaxed. No… actually I’m sweating, but… the truth. I can’t lie. I can deflect, joke, tease. But I’ve resolved never to lie again about what matters to me, to us. Eri’s been awfully annoying about it, taking things way too far, but that’s just who she is. I remember when she used to be so timid. But I guess this is her true self, a thorny black rose blooming. Me… I’m more a bunch of blue peony’s.

How apt. As peony’s weren’t originally blue, they’ve been artificially cultivated. Just as you’ve struggled to be who people expect you to be.

Wow, look at you, bro, knowing all about the language of flowers. I bet Motoko taught you that…

It doesn’t matter. Just… I’ll be slipping back into the Palace any time now. I’ll see you later?

Yeah, definitely. Later, Akio.

Momentary conversation concluded, Aiko sipped at her brandy, a smirk coming to her lips. As Liz’s eyes twinkled with curiosity, Aiko decided to cast aside her nature as a bashful, shy peony, and become a bold, fierce bunch of blue roses. After all, blue roses represent impossible love, daring to be different. They don’t truly exist, but… I can make them. Glancing over at the desk in the corner, a small vase of fading white roses sat there, so Aiko channelled her aether and pulled one of them over.

“Oh, a party trick.” Liz clapped her hands.

“No, my answer. But it’s up to you whether you can get it.” Aiko winked. “Now, my new Eyes, which bro sorted out for me… you know, he’s given me everything. He and Eri. Without them, I don’t know who I’d be. But… I wanted to stand beside my brother, like Shaeula did and could. So he made it so I could, I’m strong now, Liz. Not as strong as I want to be, I hate that he has to do the hardest fights alone, that most of us hold him back. But I’ll never stop striving, and I’ll get there. It’s like Kyūdō. Tōteki is simply hitting the target. To an amateur, that’s plenty good enough.” Her Eyes shone, and she investigated the structure of the rose. Aether flooded in through the cut stem, and the petals regained their pearly sheen and healthy volume, but that wasn’t enough.

“Oh, do go on…” Liz murmured, and Aiko continued.

“Kanteki is piercing the target. That’s the best I used to be able to do. And it’s pretty good, I went to a number of competitions, even if I never won any. I always used to choke. I’m sick of it. What I have now, that’s Kanteki, given life. It’s good, but… it’s not perfect.”

Akio, help me out a second, will you?

Sure. What are you trying to do with it?

Making the petals blue. Healing the dying flower is easy, but that’s beyond me…

Just use aether. If you pour in enough, then use Ether Healing to lock the state, it’ll work out, just like how I change the colour of Christina’s Donated Eyes to match the recipients. It’ll be wasteful, but…

You can always top me up. Pour it inside me, fill me to the brim with your silvery, pearlescent…

Phrasing!

Eri was the quickest to throw that quip out, but she was also the quickest to bully me into your bed. I don’t think her words are persuasive.

No, it’s just before, you hadn’t made your wants plain, so she was trying to keep you from being hurt. Once she knew how you truly felt, she insisted on making you happy. Eri loves you a lot, you know.

I know. I love her too. But now I’ve room in my heart for others. Eri as well. She doesn’t care that our rose is blue. The words, wants, desires of other people she doesn’t love or respect might as well be ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics to her, that’s how little she understands them or even cares to. I want it, so I should get it. That’s all she thinks. I envy her simplicity sometimes. But…

Yeah, we’re all terrible liars. Don’t worry, sis. You said it, you can feel my truth through Brother’s Bond. Our Connection.

Yes. So help me, bro.

Fine. Like this…

Aiko concentrated, following her bro’s mental image, and aether shone like a halo. Liz watched on, curious and entranced, as the petals darkened, and turned a vivid, beautiful blue, like Aiko’s eyes.

Okay, now the Ether Healing, to make it last… and then, I’ll finish it off for you. I didn’t even know I could, but…

Brother’s Bond Ranked up, yeah? I’m on the same level as Eri now. The three of us, just as we’ve always been, always should be. I don’t hate that our circle has expanded. Like I’ve always said, I love Shaeula, love everyone you love. They’re all amazing women. But we were first, that’s something true no matter how many girlfriends, sisters, daughters, friends, comrades, you gather, and it’s one thing Eri and I will never surrender on!

“Zaiteki is the purest state. A true master of Kyūdō doesn’t even need to loose an arrow to know it hits the target. It exists there, and it’s a martial bond with one’s very spirit. That’s me. I’m an arrow. And hitting, piercing, it’s no longer enough. I want to exist, no masks, no veils, no lies. Here’s my answer.”

Aiko’s Eyes glittered, and she could read what Akio had done through her own as he concentrated to share his vision.

Eternal Blue Rose Of Truth [Item Class: Lesser] [Item Type: Complex]

This dying rose, full of the Aether and even a trace of Soullight from Oshiro Sapphire Aiko, has been Shapercrafted by her brother, Oshiro Moonstone Akio, and tied into their renewed Connection. This flower can absorb Aether through this lingering Connection and will use it to remain youthful and blooming for as long as the Connection endures.

Wow, bro. What an utterly useless and yet somehow beautiful gift. I love it. I love you, you know?

I love you too, Aiko. And yeah, uh… I think I just imbued some of the benefits of Rank Eleven Ether Healing into it via Shapercrafting. It’s… a huge breakthrough? So thanks.”

I’d rather you say ‘I love you’ again, rather than thank me.

Fine. I love you, my dear, precious sister.

Wow, when you’re so serious my heart races. Is this what it’s like to be Eri and the others? It’s somehow worse than the massage… or maybe I’m just nervous. This isn’t talking to the others, this is…

Bravery, my dear Aiko. Didn’t you dance with me in front of everyone? Including mom and father…

Wow, yeah. Don’t remind me. I was trying too hard to be Zaiteki. I think auntie Hana has her eyes on us. Damn, if I’d have thought about it, I should have gone for the tongue! In for a penny…

Please spare me. On Ellie’s engagement day, you’d cause a disaster?

Hey, it’s just a kiss. I’m not asking you to haul me off to the restroom and do me. I’m not Michiru or Miyu…

Wow. Don’t remind me. It’s taking all my willpower not to give in and take them up on their offers. But I want to do things properly.

Aiko chuckled inwardly at Akio’s use of her usual exclamation. Yeah. I guess that’s important. Poor Akio, having to constantly turn down offers of sex from gorgeous women. If only all our problems were so harmless…

My bad. Anyway…

Yeah…

“Here.” Aiko handed over the rose. “This is an answer to earlier too, great-grandma Liz. As long as my bro and I don’t die and love one another, this rose won’t ever wither. Gods are overrated. Tan would tell you herself. It’s just a case of power and worship. Mostly power.”

Spoiler

[collapse]

“I see. Roses symbolise many things. White was purity and innocence. But that’s gone, overwritten by…”

“Hey now, Liz! I’m still absolutely pure. Don’t read too much into it. Wow, I’m so not an easy woman!”

“Oh, don’t dissemble, Aiko. This old woman has no time for that. After all, the cognac won’t drink itself, will it?” Liz chuckled. “…white to blue. Symbolising an impossibility, something not found in nature. And you’ve made it eternal. You’re… quite the romantic, young Aiko. A real shame.”

“Hey, what’s a shame?” Aiko pouted. “And anyway, my bro helped. Because he’s always with me. No more running.”

“I see. I shall certainly treasure this.” Liz got up and returned it to the vase, a vibrant, living blue rose amidst dying white ones. Taking a sip of her alcohol, she sat down, staring into Aiko’s eyes, making her shift and squirm at the wisdom and knowing curiosity there. “Oh, so how will your brother get back into the Palace? I suppose the guards will admit him…”

“It’s fine. He’ll pop in through the Boundary. No bother. But…” Aiko took a deep breath. “…is that really what you want to ask, Liz?”

“I suppose not. It’s been a day for surprises indeed. So, just what does your blue love mean to you, young Aiko?”

“Blue, huh? Believe it or not, I’m actually quite shy! Eri’s the bold one. Though she’s got a lot of competition. Miyu and Michiru are clearly loose cannons, and I’ve my eyes on Mae! It’s just… look, imagine it like this, right? Sometimes I just want to hang around on the sofa at night, playing games with my bro and Eri in our pyjamas, having a few beers, or just watching TV and snuggling up together. Though Eri would probably get frisky. She’s like that…”

“And what do you consider your pyjamas?” Liz chuckled.

“Hey, you know how it is. Might throw on a t-shirt. Girls are cute that way, don’t you think?” I’d wear panties, I’m not an exhibitionist!

“I see. I did wonder why you were so comfortable running up to your brother in just your underwear. Now listen, I’m not judging, I promised to listen. But do you think Eleanor would want to be around Henry or Richard like that?”

“Wow, no way. I know she’d be creeped out. Like she is by me, I’m afraid. But despite that, she’s still kind, and tries to understand. I’m happy she’s with Akio. He’ll protect her, make her life fun. She’s a good woman, is Eleanor.”

“I’m glad to hear you think so highly of my granddaughter, young Aiko.” Liz took a pensive sip of her cognac, and as Aiko lifted the glass to her lips, she asked an unexpected and pointed question.

“So, forgive a blunt old woman for being forthright, but… do you want to make love to your brother?”

Wowowowowowowow! What the hell? Aiko did a spit-take, spraying the cognac from her lips, fortunately back into the glass. Wow, I’d be gutted if I spilt some, this is five-million-yen booze! “So, where did that come… from…” Aiko trailed off as Liz pursed her lips knowingly, a wicked twinkle in her eyes.

“Oh, do come on, dear. I’m old, not senile. You’re not talking about loving your brother, you are in love with him, yes?”

“I guess so.” Aiko admitted eventually, drinking down the spit-filled dregs of her booze and waving a glass for a refill.

“Hmm, might need to crack another bottle. For the entertainment, and the honesty, I think I can bear to do that. Besides, I can get help with my hangover, yes? And you drank most of it anyway, young Aiko…”

“Sorry.” she flushed, ashamed. “Anyway… do I love my brother? Yeah. I do. But then little sisters often love their brothers, don’t they?”

“But they grow out of it, young Aiko. When they hit puberty, usually. Eleanor used to follow Henry around when she was a child, hence why he looks out for her so fiercely. He can’t forget her trailing after him sweetly, eyes sparkling.” Liz cracked open another bottle, pouring herself a generous slug of the rich, fragrant liquid. “But if you asked him if he was in love with her, he’d be horrified.”

“Yeah. I know.” Aiko hung her head. I get it. When Akio was still in Nishimorioka, Eri and I had started middle school. The jokes of everyone that was I was a brocon in elementary turned a bit nastier. I guess we reached the age it wasn’t acceptable to love our brothers anymore. But… that’s not fair, is it? Why should I have to feel this pain, just because I’m mom’s daughter, not auntie Hana’s? “But he never treated us any differently. And think about it. If I was to get together with Eri nobody would care… no, I suppose some annoying busybodies and gossips back home would make a big fuss…”

“I expect they would.” Liz agreed calmly. “People are the same everywhere. Very judgemental. I feel so long as nobody gets hurt, we should mind our own business.”

“Yeah, that’s right! What does it matter who I love? That’s my business, mine and whoever I like, right? So… Eri can have it, but I can’t. I hate that so much!”

“You still didn’t quite answer the question though, Aiko.” Liz pressed.

“Wow, you’re so relentless. Do I want to have sex with him? I… don’t know.”

“Really?” Liz raised an eyebrow, and Aiko nodded.

“I’m not lying. What would be the point? You know the truth about me. I’m kind of curious, who wouldn’t be, considering my bro’s sex life. And Eri seems so satisfied all the time. Pisses me off a bit, if I’m honest. I should tease her more, she’s been messing with me since she confessed. I just… don’t know. What I want is to be with them, nobody telling us what we can and can’t do, drawing arbitrary lines I’m not allowed to cross just because I’m not Eri. It’s total bullshit that people worry more about me liking Akio than they do the fact we’ve all killed people! I just don’t get it!”

“It’s a strange world. Now, I’m not in any way saying it’s comparable, young Aiko, but did you know sexual acts between men, being homosexual, was only decriminalised here in nineteen sixty-seven? Before that… alas, some great injustices were perpetrated. In nineteen fifty-two Alan Turing, one of the geniuses who helped Britain win the War, was so convicted, and after inhumane treatment, committed suicide two years later. And he was far from alone in that. I fear we have always policed how people live and love. Right or wrong, that is how it is.”

“It’s wrong!” Aiko insisted. “If we’re both consenting adults…”

“But can anyone truly hold Akio to account?” Liz asked, and Aiko winced.

“I get it. But that’s not the point. Yeah, my brother could have sex with me if he wanted, and who’s going to punish us? Japan can’t, he’s too important.”

“If he wanted? I thought you said you weren’t sure.” Liz pressed, and Aiko calmed her racing heart with more booze, feeling very buzzed and loose.

“I’m not. Like I said, I’m curious, but my dreams are simpler.”

“Cuddling your brother and Eri half-naked and fooling around, yes?” Liz replied archly, and Aiko blushed deeply.

“It sounds lewd when you say it that way. But yeah, I guess. Kisses and cuddles and generally being super-clingy, Akio pampering us. I like the sound of that. But sex… yes, I get frustrated, I’m a woman, yeah? Sometimes I think it would be nice to see what all the fuss was about.” She paused, deciding to playfully get back at Liz a little for embarrassing her. “Eleanor went further than even I might, you know?”

“Oh really? I know she did something, but…”

“Don’t worry, they didn’t go all the way. I was listening.” Aiko giggled, enjoying her dramatic reaction. “But the thing is, everyone’s competing to spend sexy time with my bro. Of course I think about it. Most nights. And… if he asked, I’d not refuse. I mean, it shows he truly sees me as Eri’s equal. That’s all I ever wanted. To have nobody tell me I’m different from her, lesser, can’t have what she can have. It hurts Eri too. She only wants me to be as happy as she is, because we love each other just as much as we love Akio. Though I’ll allow that I’d never be without Shaeula and the others now. We’ve only been together a short time, but it’s been dense, you see?”

“I do indeed. Henry says it’s the ‘brothers-in-battle’ effect. Lifelong friendships can be forged in a mere moment of camaraderie and danger.”

“Yeah, exactly. We’ve all been through so much together.” Aiko agreed. “And I’m so happy he’s finally understood me. I tried, but I choked. I always choked. On Christmas Eve, all I had to say was ‘yes, I know I’m asking a lot, far too much, but I want to be your girlfriend too’ and it’d be done. But the thing with life is… there’s always another competition, another chance. And this time I was Zaiteki, no mistakes. The best, most perfect shot of my life. No matter what happens from now, in that moment, when my bro was actually overjoyed, not just for my sake, but because he could feel my pure love for him, I was complete. And I’ll always have that. No matter what happens from here. Life… isn’t a fairytale, and love… our love… isn’t easy. It didn’t work out for Mr Turing, did it?”

I don’t remember you asking me to be your boyfriend, sis…

Oh, be quiet. What else did I mean? Or were you just hoping for sex? I know I’m as pretty as Eri, and the forbidden fruit is tasty…

Very funny. I’m stressed out enough fending off Miyu and Michiru, I don’t need to worry about finding you naked in my bed too…

Wow, how rude, my dear brother. You’d be delighted. Eri even suggested she’d accompany me on my first time, so I wouldn’t be scared. She’s so considerate. Did you know she said that if I wanted to make love to her, I’d have to do it with you first? Just how did you become top of the pyramid, Akio? Oh wait. I know how. By being the man we love…

Sorry. I guess… I’ve warped your life…

But you did it by being the one person we could always rely on. Even in this crazy world. You’ve shown us so much love, so much care, and made our lives better. I’m not one for the sappy stuff, but Eri put it right. If our lives were the night sky, then you’re a supernova, shining so brilliantly we can’t look away.

Even so, I don’t feel good about it.

Then just keep being yourself. I’ll keep being me. And we’ll figure it out. Okay? That’s all there is to it. I didn’t make Rank twelve by feeling ashamed of who and what I am… I’ll own it. But I’m still worried about how it’ll hurt you, bro. I’d rather keep everything bottled up inside than do that…

I promised you I’d do everything in my power to make you happy too. A Connection of love that goes both ways. And everyone will lend you their strength…

Everyone, huh?

Yes. Everyone. Because if I know one thing about them all, it’s that they’re all fine, understanding women, and they like you a lot, Aiko.

… … … don’t make me tear up, bro. Not in front of Liz!

“I suspect that poor Alan’s fate won’t befall you, young Aiko. It’s as you’ve said, who can say no to your brother? In fact, our Prime Minister should be preparing to get the marriage legislation passed through Parliament. If he knows what’s good for him. Eleanor braved her fears to ask me for this engagement. As you’ve been equally courageous, answering this old woman candidly.”

Aiko had to laugh. “Don’t flatter me. I’m just tired of being a coward. And don’t trick me either. I bet you’ve been pushing Eleanor from behind all this time.”

“I have no idea what you mean, young Aiko. More cognac?”

“Yeah, why not!” Aiko giggled. “I’ll let you distract me.” When the glass was full again, she held it in both hands, gaze straying over to the blue rose. “I need it. Because… the one thing I can’t do is cause any of his lovers to hate him or feel disgusted by him. I can take their scorn, be called a pervert, a freak, but if they take it out on Akio I don’t think I’d be able to forgive myself. Or them. It would mean they aren’t good enough for my brother!” Her hands tightened on the glass until her knuckles went white.

“Careful now. Don’t cut yourself.” Liz warned, and with difficultly, Aiko relaxed her grip.

“Sorry. I’m just stressed. I’ll be frank. I know the damage this could do to Akio’s reputation. They’ll always blame him. He’s older, and a man. What a joke. I’m capable of fighting to the death on the battlefield, but not on who to fall in love with. Worse, our parents… dad’s going to disown us for sure. Mom… it’ll break her heart. She always wanted me to find a nice guy, get married.”

“There are plenty of wonderful men out there, Aiko. You might yet find one you love…”

“Are you going to say that to Eleanor?” Aiko shot back, and Liz snorted.

“Touché, young Aiko. I can hardly argue with that. Though again, I would imagine in the tabloids tomorrow, Akio shall take all the blame for seducing my naïve granddaughter, while she escapes blame for her willingness to help him commit bigamy. Life isn’t fair.”

“No. And that’s another thing I love. Akio wants to make a fairer world. But he’s also still prepared to put us first. Anyone with the will can change their own futures now. I haven’t changed mine, though…” No, my goal was always the same…

“Oh, how so?” Liz asked, sipping on her brandy.

“I was always intending to be a live-in sister-in-law to Eri. I joked about it, but I knew she’d eventually follow Akio to Tokyo and win him over. She tried to live in denial, like I did, but it was just breaking her. And away from everyone’s sight… I can be as clingy and affectionate as I want. Who can complain about what we do behind closed doors?”

“I see. But what about… certain things… that you can’t hide? Like pregnancy. How would you explain that?”

This time Aiko barely prevented herself from spitting out her liquor. Wiping her mouth, she grimaced. “Well played, you turned that one around on me. I’ve told you, I don’t know if I want sex with Akio. Not for certain. But if I did… come on, there’s condoms and stuff like that, aren’t there? Eri even went on the birth-control pill for a while, before it stopped mattering. Worst case, I’d just claim I had a drunken one-night stand with an unknown man. I’d rather wreck my own reputation than harm Akio’s. The same’s true now. You know, it probably would have happened. It’s not like we would have had stats and Skills then.” With a grimace, Aiko allowed her Ether Healing to kick in, clearing her mind and the warm fog loosening her tongue. “See? Having a drunken mistake is damn hard when staying drunk is just for fun. But then… a few too many bottles of sake, after Akio’s had a rough day, Eri turning a blind eye… yeah, I reckon I could have enticed him into crossing that line. I’m that cute, after all.”

“You’ve thought about it a lot.” Liz mused, and Aiko shrugged.

“Yes and no. I never could admit it to myself before, but I know myself better now. It would have gone that way. Unless Akio found love with someone like Shiro, I suppose. Though she’d have died long before him, without Tan’s intervention, in a world without plentiful aether. But then, my bro could have found someone else. If so… Eri and I, who knows what we’d have done? I know Eri would never have found another to love. And I’d have felt awful watching her. Guess we’d have been lonely Urenokori, unsold goods, together. Like stale Christmas cake. Licking each other’s wounds and weeping tears of regret at the opportunities we were too cowardly to take.”

“That’s… quite the gloomy fate.” Liz commiserated. “But you never truly know what might have happened.”

“Oh, trust me, it could be worse. I worried Eri might have just given up on life. I would have done everything to stop that happening. Even if I had to try and fill in for Akio. It wouldn’t have been much of a hardship, we’re sisters, after all, in spirit if not by blood.”

“And you have a thing for siblings, it seems.” Liz chuckled. “I know I married my third cousin. Second cousin, technically, through another line. But… anyone closer, it doesn’t sit right with me. It was common, first cousin marriages though, before all this.”

“But that’s still not siblings. Yeah. I know.” Aiko sighed, swirling her glass, before taking a big gulp, turning off Ether Healing again. “It doesn’t matter though. Whether there are reasons for the taboo or it’s just cultural, the fact people are disgusted won’t change. But… I’m too selfish to back down, just so long as Akio won’t reject me. And… he won’t. it’s why Eleanor’s going to be happy, so at least be glad about that.”

“Oh, how so?” Liz asked, and Aiko smirked knowingly.

“Because if he’d go so far for me, he’d do the same for Eleanor. My bro’s not a one-woman man anymore, and I’m glad. I pushed Shaeula because not only did I feel sorry for her, but in my heart-of-hearts I thought maybe he’d turn to me, find a place for me too. But thanks to that, he can make so many women happy, and keep them safe, through everything to come.” That’s one good thing I’ve done. Even if my motivation wasn’t entirely innocent. Seeing Akio, Shaeula and Eri all dancing around their feelings was painful. In more ways than one.

Sorry.

Again. Don’t apologise. What do we say?

Yeah. Thanks, Aiko. For caring about us.

Of course I do. I’m your mirror, so if I didn’t care for you and Eri, it would mean something has gone badly wrong…

“So let me summarise then.” Liz chuckled. “For my peace of mind, if nothing else. To me, you seem to be emotionally invested. A… mental incest, if you will.”

Aiko winced. “I hate that word. I hate it so much. If Eri’s not wrong, I can’t be. “

“Oh, well do forgive me for being blunt. You have been, young Aiko. I appreciate it though. It explains a lot I’ve observed.”

“You’re a cunning old woman.” Aiko chuckled, feeling somewhat unburdened after baring her soul to Liz, even if she still felt a little sick, which she covered by taking a gulp of the cognac.

“Less of the old, even if I am. Why right now, I feel rather young. The world is a shocking place, young Aiko, you never know what the next day will bring, and I find that charming.”

“That’s true. I’m always grateful for how things are now. But… if I can be honest?”

“Hmm?” Liz made a questioning noise, and Aiko took a deep breath.

“I’m shocked you are taking it so well. I’d expected more… vitriol, or disgust. If you’re going to hate me, then at least tell me now, to my face. Don’t hide it, I couldn’t bear that.”

“Then let me ask you a question, young Aiko.” Liz didn’t answer. “My granddaughter, Eleanor. She’s in trouble on the battlefield. What will you do?”

“Assuming Akio isn’t there, as he’d swoop in and save her, leaving us nothing to do, I’d race to her rescue, of course.”

“Even at the risk of your own life?”

“Why wouldn’t I? I don’t want to die. Especially not now life is finally going the way I always wanted it to. Barring the obvious problems, of course…” Aiko finished her cognac, wiping her mouth. “…but I’ll be damned if I let anyone Akio loves perish. It was bad enough when Eri nearly died, when Shiro was hurt, when Tsukiko didn’t make it. I’m never letting Akio suffer like that again while I have breath in my body! He made my childhood shine, and even now he’s fighting for us all and our future. It’s my turn to step up! Besides, I like Eleanor. Even if she can’t live with how I feel, I’ll always thank her for trying. I’m in her corner, and if she ever needs to talk, I’m here.”

“How very kind of you. That answers your question then, young Aiko. It’s very hard to hate someone who cares for those we love. Besides, what it boils down to is that you haven’t actually done anything yet, have you? Raised a few eyebrows maybe, but being close and over-familiar with your brother is hardly a crime, is it?”

“Yeah, but… if I decide I want to, I will. I’m not holding back anymore. I’m Zaiteki. So that’s just splitting hairs…” Aiko pouted, gnawing at her lip. Don’t dismiss it. I’m serious.

“Maybe so, but I’m not going to condemn you for falling in love. We can hardly help who we fall for, young Aiko.”

I… yeah, that’s just semantics, but…

“My sister is very grateful.” Akio’s voice rang out, and Liz was the one choking on her brandy now. Akio rushed over and patted her back, and she shot him an exasperated, accusing glower.

“How did you get in here? And you nearly gave me a heart-attack and sent me to an early grave!”

“Hardly.” Akio shook his head, and Aiko watched his every movement, heart hammering. I’ve said it. Not just to the women around him, many of whom support me, but… to… not an outsider, no, but someone who should reject me…

“I just got back and followed my sister’s thoughts. As for you dying, don’t even think about it. Even if your heart gave out, I’d restart it. No tears for Ellie, not today, and… if my sister and I, and everyone else with us, have our way, never again.” Akio then bowed deeply to Liz.

“Thanks. For hearing my sister out and being kind. I love her very much. I can’t say I’m in love with her, in the way she means, but I can say her joy is my life. And there’s not really much difference. How I feel for Aiko, I felt for Eri when I first started going out with her. Love doesn’t demand, it accepts, and grows. So we’ll work it out. Somehow. But on our own terms, and nobody gets to tell Aiko what she can and can’t do.”

“Bro… Akio…” Aiko was tearing up, but his smile warmed her heart.

“I like ‘bro’ just fine. After all, I’m a siscon extraordinaire, doesn’t everyone say so?”

“All right. Bro… thanks for being you. I mean it. Uh…” Her face went scarlet.

I’m kind of regretting I didn’t go for the lips during our dance. Do you think…

No tongues, all right? Akio winked, and leaned over, and their lips touched, Liz watching on. It was fleeting, gentle and almost innocent, a brotherly kiss, but even so, Aiko’s heart was hammering in her chest. As they parted, Aiko, in a daze, touched her warm lips with her fingers.

My first proper kiss…

Don’t be so dramatic, dear sister. If you’ll remember, it’s not. As kids, you’ve kissed me on the lips before. Eri too…

Oh come on, when we’re in elementary or even earlier it hardly counts!

At her red-faced expression, cheeks puffed out in a sulky embarrassed pout, both Akio and Liz burst out laughing, and Aiko felt the heat spread through her, and her heart was throbbing painfully.

“She’s adorable, isn’t she?” Akio bragged to Liz. “Problematic, but I wouldn’t have her any other way.”

“You’re quite a tolerant man, young Akio.” Liz poured him a cognac, and he tossed it back, savouring the strong flavour.

“I wouldn’t say so. But compared to dealing with international conspiracies and potential world-ending threats, I’d much rather have to deal with the simple worries of my cute and headstrong sister.”

Simple. Huh… compared to that, I suppose they are…

“Come on then, sis. I’ve got a few things to take care of, like a proper talk with Yu-mi’s mother, but after that… pyjama party in my room? I’m curious to see if you have the guts for it…”

“Jackass!” Aiko laughed, throwing a punch at her brother, who caught it playfully. As he squeezed her hand, she could feel the love in the gesture.

“Got the guts for it? Didn’t I show off enough during the massage? Or right here with Liz? Trying to provoke me so it’s all my fault and you can claim innocence, huh? I see your game, big bro moonstone! But I’m not falling for it! Down on your knees and beg for my love, and I might just give you a show!”

Yes, I’m still terrified of the future, but equally… if I’m not true to myself, what future do I have? I don’t know, or even know the true shape of what love is, but I know… nobody gets to define what the Connection between Akio and I should be… other than us. After all… my brother is the Bondweaver, isn’t he? So come on bro, get to work, weave your magic on me, on everyone, and show the world the true beauty of your brotherly Bond…