On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor - Six Hundred And Forty-One / Side Two Hundred And Forty-Four – Yukiko, Princess Mikasa

Yukiko sipped at her sake, trying to maintain control of her facial features, but despite everything she had gained over the last few months, the Favour of Amaterasu, a renewed and deepened friendship with Tsukiko, not only having the horror of her death, but also the unbridled joy of her rebirth, the awakening of the Imperial Regalia, and even… even having found affection and… oh, it embarrasses me, calling it love. Was I such a needy woman, starved for genuine compassion, for someone who would see me as myself, not as just a member of the Imperial Family, who would… who would do for me what I couldn’t myself, who could even do the impossible?

No, despite everything that had changed about her, Yukiko knew that at her core, she was still the same, and her face was flaming red as she listened to the muted buzz of conversation from next door, as well as… passionate sounds… and in yet another room…

“Ginneka has always been the same. She and her brother Kinneka are quintessential Bakeneko, capricious, rather stupid, and bullies to the weak, bootlickers to the strong.” Nebisuki grinned. At least she had loosely tied her kimono around her scandalous body, but it did very little to hide her explosive, lusty figure. Beside her, Tamamo-no-Mae, the legendary Kitsune that Yukiko had felt was only a myth until recently, had made a similar lackadaisical effort.

Perhaps she feels she doesn’t have to hide it in front of me. I may not be much of a woman, really, as painful as that is to say, but even I can tell how unguarded she is around Akio…

“And that pathetic cat has been very frustrated. I can hardly say I do not understand it.” Nebisuki chuckled wickedly, seeming to enjoy the chaotic situation, which made sense to Yukiko, as Kitsune were equally tricksy in myth and legend.

“After all, who can resist such a strong man? You certainly cannot, judging by your crimson face, Yukiko.” Nebisuki teased her. “If you are jealous rather than embarrassed, you have no reason to be. After all, it is envious, you could simply walk in there now and be embraced. How marvellous it would feel.” She giggled softly, picking up one of her tails, the golden fur freshly combed and tidied up.

“It’s… not that simple.” Yukiko covered her embarrassment with more sake. “I know I could, and a part of me even wants to. I’ve lived a sheltered life, even if I tried to be as normal as I could, despite being Imperial Princess. I had the advantage that my older brother would be the next Emperor ahead of me anyway, so I wouldn’t have to think about marrying for the good of Japan… strange how that turned out…”

“Oh?” Tamamo-no-Mae raised one golden eyebrow at that, her hair like shimmering metal, and in comparison, Yukiko felt frumpy, inferior.

I shouldn’t though. Akio said I was beautiful, and that should be enough for me. And honestly… stats and Levelling up does do wonders, as does learning Ether Healing, but still… I’m a dandelion amidst a field of roses, lilies and sakura. Even so, I don’t want to give up, even if it still doesn’t feel fair to Tsukiko. She wasn’t even aware she was searching for something missing her whole life…

“Hana…” Tamamo-no-Mae sighed, placing down her alcohol with an irritated expression on her stunning, alluring features, before addressing Yukiko with a surprisingly honest tone. “Are you sure you want to get involved in such matters? I have tried it, you know… both as an Empress, and a concubine. Women are… troublesome. And this collection is exceptionally so. Even I would not wish to anger that frustrating Goddess, despite her limitations due to her mortal shell. Though of course…” Her grin was suddenly teasing, and Yukiko’s throat worked, and not from swallowing alcohol. She is so… captivating. Can… can I ever reach that level?

“…should it come to a clash, I have no intention of backing down. I have always lived my life that way, and while… I cannot truly say I have no regrets…” Her green eyes went distant, and Yukiko imagined she was thinking of those Akio and the others retrieved this very day. “…and most certainly, were I to live my life over, I would have perhaps… kept a better temper.”

Nebisuki… I don’t think it’s right to call her Hana, only Akio does that, when he thinks nobody is listening. Yukiko found her lips twitching, as if she wished to smile. It’s so like him. The little details. It’s hardy as if anyone can take her bond, capture her tail, when he holds it. Akio may not be the strongest in the world, so he worries… but I know and trust there’s nobody who forges deeper bonds and connections. And… not just on this Path of his. One day… I’ll step on it too, just like Magatama and the others… She clutched the jade bead around her neck, the form of Magatama slumbering, after helping Asha and Shiro amplify the power of the Tree yet again.

“You? I never would have imagined it. Now this shocks me. Worried about being despised, grandmother? Or being hard to live with? I think you need not worry. Our hero has a soft spot for those with a troubled past. Though…” She smirked teasingly at Yukiko. “A little virgin Princess like you catches his fancy as well. Besides, you are in distress, if not now, in the future, no? Tsukiko, your friend who is currently in the deep throes of passion…” Her fox ears flickered as if capturing every sound from next door. “…says so, and I believe Uranai’s prophecies also offer a perspective.”

“You know…” Yukiko felt she had to speak up. “…I don’t exactly like that. I’d like to be wanted for me, not my circumstances. But it’s hard, I know…” She took a deep breath. “…I shouldn’t feel inferior, that it’s all about looks and charm. I mean, compared to Eleanor, I’m an ugly duckling, as the British say…”

“Oh. How right you are…” Nebisuki snorted, and Yukiko’s flush deepened, before the fox laughed. “…you’re not well-versed in other cultures, are you?”

“I’ve studied a little, I am an Imperial Princess…” Yukiko was defensive. “…damn it. Can’t that cat shut up? It’s mortifying!”

“Do not worry. I shall tell Eri later, and she will disciple her unruly ‘big sister’” Nebisuki burst out laughing at that. “Such a strange relationship, but I was there to see the root of it. Oh how that Kijo was so surprised, her maimed, helpless victim of resentment and revenge transforming and dicing her up. And our little cat, miraculously, was at the heart of it. Sadly, therefore no matter how much she acts up, only modest punishment awaits. Besides, much as I hate to admit it, she works hard, something I never thought I would see from the lazy creature.”

“But of course, that is not the issue, is it?”  Nebisuki continued. “The ugly duckling in the story, blossoms into a swan, the most beautiful of all. Do you think you cannot? I shall be candid, since I am in an excellent mood, and see myself as a better older sister than the lustful cat…”

“If just as lustful…” Yukiko shot back, only to place a hand over her mouth, her flush deepening to an ashamed purple. “I apologise. That wasn’t becoming of me…”

“But it was honest. And I appreciate that.” Nebisuki shrugged, and Yukiko glanced away awkwardly.

“I understand. But rest assured, our grooming is merely… cultural. It is not strictly related to sex. Though I admit…” she shivered in pleasure. “…he is so very good at it, utterly attentive, and with excellent stamina. It takes more effort and endurance to properly groom us than you would think. You shall have a wonderful time with him as a lover. I daresay there can be few better to cherish you, little virgin Princess.”

“Stop calling me that! It’s… oh, what does it matter? Eleanor understands me. Think of the scandal if… well, I suppose in Britain she might get away with it. The tabloids would make a fuss, but the population isn’t as staunchly conservative and set in their ways as the Japanese…” Yukiko let out a tired sigh.

“It is not much different to the way the Fae do things.” Nebisuki continued explaining. “Their… Fae Bonding, sharing their lunar Chakras. Yes, lovers do it, but… it is not inherently a sexual thing. Extremely close friends, respected mentors… they might merge who they are. It is the same with us. We would not let those we do not… feel a closeness to… or at least desire such… to groom our tails, for we are our tails. Yet…”

“Nice try, but I know for a fact Shaeula won’t even give Chirurgery to men anymore, despite it being nothing alike to that ritual.” Yukiko puffed out her cheeks, a little exasperated. “And the state the pair of you were in… if Goddess Taṇhā hadn’t vouched for Akio, I’d have expected…” No, this isn’t productive, or fair, but… Yukiko took another deep breath to steady herself. “…no, Akio wouldn’t have done that. He promised, and you helped him, so… it’s just…”

“Oh, do not mistake me, I understand. I am selfish, yes, but…” Nebisuki’s tone was surprisingly kind. “…I am also trying my best to be reborn. I lived long in fear and pettiness. To have that weight lifted is liberating. You are frustrated at the unfairness of it. Akio does favours for us, but if you, or one of the others, was for example, to do such for a male Kitsune that aided you…”

“Exactly. It’s not like any of us would ever want to, but…” Yukiko agreed.

“Such, sadly, is the way of things. And do not mistake cause and effect here.” Tamamo-no-Mae sighed languidly, kicking her tongue, ears flickering with irritation. “It is not because he is a man, and you mere women, that he desires dominion, and you desire to become his. Were he born a woman, and you his male admirers, or even still females… the situation would be the same. It comes down to power. He is the centre, and thus the Emperor. And no Emperor allows others to take what is his. If he was an Empress, you would be his devoted lovers nonetheless. You know… the first to love loses, they say now in these lands. It is true. But such losses are still sweet as honeyed wine.” As if to prove her point, Tamamo-no-Mae drank deeply from her bottle, licking her plump lips.

“I know, and… I’m not as frustrated as I thought I’d be. Christmas Eve was magical, a dream, you know? Sure, I wished it could be longer, but mine was surely the lengthiest anyway, and… seeing Tsukiko, Eleanor, the others happy… I was happy too. It’s just… I don’t know exactly what it is. This isn’t helping…” She glared towards the wall where sounds from Ginneka were leaking through. “Lewd, lustful little cat!”

“In the end, while it may seem Akio is the beneficiary… of all your… largesse…” Tamamo-no-Mae chuckled. “…in the end, he will be run ragged making you all happy. I do not even need our Connection to know that. It is in his eyes. May the Heavens and the Earth help him when Caihong’er awakes. I daresay she will utterly despise him, thinking him naught but a beast.”

“And she will wake.” Yukiko couldn’t help but promise on Akio’s behalf. “I thought my world was shattered when Tsukiko died, but he promised… and his promise was fulfilled. And it can’t be as hard this time, at least the two of them are alive…”

“How quick you are to leap to his defence. I know, Yukiko.” Tamamo-no-Mae sighed, her tails wagging gently. “No, I have other troubles on my mind. Since…”

“Kenas-unarpe… the aunt of the woodland plain…” Nebisuki spoke. “…a foe you had long since slain, millennia ago…”

“Yes. I am indeed troubled by her return. I hesitate to boast of this, but when it comes to my enemies, I am always extremely thorough. She was dead, there can be no doubt. Yet… here she returns, to plague me again. It was definitely her, I would not mistake her malice and foul threats…”

“Maybe…” I… honestly don’t know. I never thought about the indigenous peoples of Japan. But… they should be our subjects too. Therefore the Kamuy should be like the Kami, yet… I can’t undo history. I know Akio was torn about today’s battle, because the Chosen he defeated claimed to be of Ainu descent, doing it to seek vengeance for his ancestors, and… and our sins. It’s just like the War, but… I don’t want our people of today, innocent people, men, women, children… to suffer for the sins of our ancestors, though… even in modern times we’ve not been kind…

“…well, Shaeula’s weaselkin and even Tsukiko returned to life. Maybe it’s a similar ability? I know that is must be rare, but… the Kamuy are basically Gods, of a kind, aren’t they?”

“If Amaterasu, whose blood supposedly runs in your family’s veins, could hear you say that, she would be rather enraged.” Tamamo-no-Mae sniffed. “Even the Kami, your Eight-Million Gods, are not truly considered Divine, despite their weak Flames. No more than we Yōkai. The Kamuy… born of earth and water, thunder and cloud…” She shook her head. “…I shall not bore you with such matters. You asked about whether they could return that way? Akio, and Shaeula, their Skill is truly a miracle, but far, far from omnipotent. For example, were I to die… I doubt very much I would be able to be reborn from my spirit-flame. Akio would have to be stronger. Certainly, that thirsty Goddess would not be possible. So, the Kamuy… it would not be so simple, even if…”

“Yes, go on.” Nebisuki pressed.

“…she was most definitely weaker. I doubt she was hiding her strength, her ambush was designed to catch me unawares. I… do not know how she has recovered, yet… I worry. If Uranai’s words are true…”

“Yes. It is not hard to connect such events.” Nebisuki agreed. “Where one rat is seen, a dozen more are hiding in the shadows. You suspect…”

“That more of the Kamuy might have returned?” Yukiko breathed, unsure of how to feel.

“It seems likely. And if so… I only pray I was not mistaken and that the old slut of the swamps indeed was weaker and remains so. For if the Kamuy crawl back out of their dusty graves, the Gods are not here to direct the Kami, the Kami have declined, and so… so have we Yōkai. It will be… a conflict with no winners, only shades of defeat. And I for one… have no wish to repeat my past follies.”

Yukiko nodded. “I understand that. What… what can we do?” Forgetting about Akio’s current situation, and even the yammering, frustrating cat, Yukiko also set aside her own self-doubt. “I don’t want this to be a disaster for Japan. I… I am Amaterasu’s Chosen, it is up to me to protect this country, the Kami, and the people within it!”

“A good question.” Tamamo-no-Mae snorted sourly. “It is fortunate then, that you believe Akio can deliver on any promise. I have never disrespected anyone, be they man, woman or anything else, who has sought the aid of a powerful lover. Little swan-to-be…”

At her words, Yukiko, whose blush had faded away while talking about weighty matters, reddened again at her mockery, though it was gentle, and… no, I don’t think she is teasing me. Maybe… maybe I can really do it? And not just for Akio, but… for myself as well. I don’t always want to feel so ordinary, always compare myself to others. We’re all different, we all have our own strengths, and… the affection in his eyes is no lie.

“…I suggest you start improving yourself, and not just your charm. Hard times are coming, and we should all polish ourselves. Because only though strength, wisdom and will, can you truly become a person who can stand astride the times. And more importantly… become a being you yourself can be proud of and love. For if you do not love yourself truly, then who will?”

“Such sage advice from you, grandmother. I am quite touched.” As Nebisuki pretended to flinch under Tamamo-no-Mae’s fierce jade stare, taking a swig of her booze, Yukiko felt a little lighter, and chuckled. Seeing them looking, she leaned back, drinking her own sake, suddenly feeling much happier.

“Is that not why we are all training so relentlessly already?” Yukiko asked. “In fact, it is only we who seem to be taking a relaxing break. Everyone else is hard at work…”

“This is… an important role. Even that which seems invincible can shatter if stressed too much. And Akio is under a great dela of stress, with few to understand his worries. Fortunately, that Goddess can… besides, relationships, bonds, connections… maintaining and strengthening them seems to be his way, his need, his desire. So to that end…”

Under Tamamo-no-Mae’s gaze, Yukiko held herself steady and tried to remain calm, even if it was still shocking to her, facing a legend. Hand on Magatama around her neck, she waited patiently for Tamamo-no-Mae to speak.

“…I shall help polish you, little swan-to-be. Consider it… compensation… for your misgivings about what has happened here tonight.”

“No, I’m not upset… I understand…” I’m not jealous or bothered… much. I…

“Oh? Well then, just consider it the whim of a woman who has had many memories unearthed today, both the good and the bad. I too was an Empress, you know. Allow me to impart my knowledge to you. It might perhaps make those long-lost days and memories rather more… meaningful, if I pass them on.”

“Though perhaps you might wish to be rather less fickle and brutal than my dear…” Nebisuki grinned lopsidedly as Tamamo-no-Mae glared at her, before smirking, showing her fangs. “…never mind. But I too shall assist. While I certainly do not have the breadth of experience she has, I do still wish to be useful, earn my keep. Besides…” She winked, her blue eyes playful. “…I do like siding with an underdog. I know how that feels…”

Feeling both nervous and touched, Yukiko equivocated. “I don’t know quite what to say…”

“A thank you shall suffice.” Tamamo-no-Mae chuckled, and Yukiko nodded.

“Fine. I am grateful. I do… want to live up to what Akio, what Tsukiko, and what you both… see in me. And what Amaterasu does too.”

“Oh, I care not what she thinks. After all, I dare say we will end up having to clean up her mess, though it was not hers alone.” Tamamo-no-Mae shook her head. “Now then… a toast, to celebrate our… arrangement?”

“And… to celebrate that those you protected have been brought home?” Yukiko added, only for Nebisuki to add her own thoughts.

“And to Akio, may he make good on his word and restore them to health and happiness for you, my dear grandmother!”

Tamamo-no-Mae let out a low, growled laugh. “You just wish to… never mind. You are as bad as that wretched cat.” As they all toasted, Yukiko found that she was no longer so frustrated by the situation.

No, I’m just… hesitant. I want it to be magical, I want him to look at me with the same lust and desire he would Tsukiko. I want… a lot of things, honestly. I never knew I could be selfish, but… looking at these Kitsune, I realise… being selfish is okay, if it’s to grasp happiness with those you care for, those you have come to love dearly, wanting to be a part of their lives. Even… no, especially when it’s complicated. Because… it’s amazing how simple it can get when you just understand… that we’re not alone, no matter what comes… that no matter how bad things seem, how dire, how sorrowful… there’s someone’s words, compassion, and yes, their love too, to rely on…

For some reason the alcohol tasted sweeter now, and Yukiko found herself looking at the two Kitsune, especially Tamamo-no-Mae, in an entirely different light…

***

After indulging with Tsukiko, Tan and Shiro for a while longer, we spent a quiet, almost contemplative time chatting quietly, before Tsukiko changed the subject. “I fear we must have this time of bliss come to an end. Yukiko and the others will be waiting for us. You did promise to spend time with Tamamo-no-Mae and Nebisuki, Akio.”

“Indeed I did.” I hugged Tsukiko, which quickly led to Shiro and Tan sharing one with me too. We were… in a bit of a state, to be honest, but Tan, with exquisite control, used a warm, almost pleasant, flame, to cleanse our bodies of sweat, nectars and other liquids, our clothes too. We then dressed, though I couldn’t help but ogle them fondly as they pulled on their clothes. Tan took it in her stride, showing off, though I felt I could detect her slight embarrassment. Tsukiko was more modest, of course, but on seeing me staring, she swallowed that down and dressed in a clumsy yet terribly seductive manner. When done, we kissed, before walking out, running into a rather embarrassed, Ginneka. On seeing us, she jumped, nearly bashing her head on the ceiling, before I sighed.

“I’ll be having words with you later. Don’t pull that sort of shitty stunt again, okay, or next time it won’t be a facepalming. And when Eri finds out…”

“Nya, I’m sorry! Don’t… don’t tell her. I just…” Ginneka drooped, her tail brushing the ground as she squatted forlornly. “…she’ll be very angry, and… I don’t hate her being kind to me, nya!”

“I think perhaps, maybe this once…” Tsukiko began, and Tan shook her head.

“You are far too kind. Now… begone, cat. Do some work. And do not let us catch you causing trouble again, or else…”

At Tan’s words, which at least implied we’d keep her shameful secret, Ginneka fled, her meows disappearing into the distance. We exchanged glances, before we couldn’t help but laugh.

“Damn, shapeshifting’s a menace. I mean, I’d never fall for it, but…”

“Have you had Eri use it before?” Tsukiko asked, and I nodded.

“Well, on her own initiative she changed into an anime character I liked. But she’s never copied any of you, despite Shiro’s depraved urgings.”

“Oh come on, Aki. You can do any celeb you want, though I suppose that’s not impossible even now without tricks. Certainly not with idols… shit, well, the true forbidden fruits are on the table, though… nah, not finishing that point, not after Christmas.” Shiro whistled innocently, letting Tan take over again.

Yeah, Aiko and I aren’t living down just how Christmas Eve went, are we? Idiot little sis sapphire, but it’s true… the dumber the kid, the more adorable…

“That aside, how do you think their wager is going?” We opened the door to the bedroom we left Mae, Hana and Yukiko in, and I was surprised to see the three of them getting on very well, though… “Yukiko, what are you doing?”

“Oh…” She stopped moving, cheeks pink. “…Tamamo-no-Mae was just teaching me to walk properly. I mean, I’ve actually had posture and dance lessons of course, it is fairly standard Princess education, but…”

“Such will not suffice.” Mae leaned back, her tails surrounding her like a furry halo, giving her quite the Imperial mien herself. “Elegance and grace are important, yes, but… projecting power, authority and raw allure is far more vital!”

“I’m not so sure about allure…” Yukiko shook her head, even that movement rather graceful.

“Nonsense.” Mae dismissed her protests. “As an Empress you should dominate, and what better way to stamp your authority over men and women alike than combining unshakable belief and projection of your own power, compelling minds, with charm and charisma, which enslaves hearts.”

“Is that how you did it?” Hana asked, only to smile knowingly and take a sip of her booze when Mae’s steely gaze fell on her.

“I understand where you are coming from…” Yukiko agreed. “And I’m grateful, if… a little intimidated you would choose to take me on as a project…” She glanced at Tsukiko, her smile now rather rueful. “…but I’ll not be Empress. And I’ll just be one of many of Akio’s wives…”

“You say that, but…” Shiro piped up, Tan’s eyes darkening, crimson hair shading silver. “…let me be honest, Yuki, and I don’t mean any offense, but your big brother really shit the bed, didn’t he?”

Oddly enough, it was Tsukiko who giggled at that, and as we glanced at her, now she was reddening. Seeing that, she waved a hand. “Oh, my apologies. It is just… imagining that usually refined man… oh, you understand…”

“Sure do, Tsuki. Sure do.” Shiro’s smile was fond. They were always close, due to similar circumstances, and I was actually proud of Shiro for not resenting Tsukiko, as without Tsukuyomi’s aid, and her living in naturally the most ether-dense city in Japan, Tsukiko likely would have had the same life of bitter ill-health and weakness she endured. But it seemed that during our lovemaking together, that bond had grown further. And I love to see it

“…anyway, yeah, I get you, Yuki…” Shiro continued. “…I really do. You don’t want to think about it. He is your brother. I don’t have any siblings, you know… probably for the best. If they were like me, my parents probably would have cut and run, and if not… well, jealousy’s a bitch. But seeing Aki and Ai, and even other sibling relationships like Ren, Chi and Chi…” I see she’s on nickname basis with Chiaki and Chiasa now too. But that’s totally not going to get confusing at all, is it? It’s very Shiro though. And I suppose a lot of us do fall into the habit of calling them ‘the twins’, so… guess I shouldn’t be hypocritical…

“…or Hinata and Hiroto, it kind of makes me appreciate the concept, you know? So it’d feel like you were stealing what’s his. And let’s be honest, Japan’s a tradition-driven, male dominated country. But come on, he disrespected you and Akio in front of the world, and he tried treating little Tsurugi as a thing, as a slave. Now, don’t get me wrong…” Judging by Shiro’s smile, I could tell she was about to say something outrageous. “…there’s plenty of otaku who would only be crying that ‘it should have been me, not him’ who dream of owning a cute young slave or ten, fortunately Aki doesn’t have such exotic tastes, but… the majority of the population are going to be rather disgusted. Coupled with the fact you’ll be marrying Aki, whose popularity at home and abroad is massive, and that you’re the Chosen of Amaterasu, no less… well, I’d be thinking if you’re blessed by the Goddess who founded Japan and your crass brother isn’t…”

“That’s not fair though. She surely chose me because I was the Priestess of Ise…” Yukiko tried to defend Prince Gorohito, which I felt was admirable, even if I didn’t exactly like the guy much.

“…it’s not a fair comparison, the rule about a woman from the Imperial Family taking that role has been in effect for as long as records last…”

“Which was set by Amaterasu herself, if you follow the logic through. So she still set it up. And trust me, I know how tricky the Gods and Goddesses can be. Who’d know better than me?” she winked at us. “The point is… your stock is rising. But even setting that aside, Aki’s going to be Astral Emperor, which means even the Imperial Family will be a step below. And he’s got to have someone manage Japan for him. Who better than his Imperial wife?”

Yukiko frowned, clearly trying to come up with a rebuttal, but Shiro wasn’t done. “Good thinking, Mae.” She copied my nickname for the Kitsune, and while Mae didn’t seem overly thrilled, she let it slide. “Yuki could use a confidence boost. I get it, it’s hard, when up against yours truly, but honestly, you’ve got that cute, charming shy bookish girl thing going. And honestly, that’s like a Goddess to Aki. He’s always been into that type. Use your charm points. Blame Aimi, Hina and especially me… oh, and I suppose I should admit Eri and Ai are gorgeous too… for warping his beauty standards over the years, but… and shit, I’m not lying, I swear it, you’re plenty attractive enough, Yuki. But… to be an Empress, Mae is right. It needs to be honed to a sharp blade…”

“In that case, would Eleanor be the one to take charge of Britain? She would have equal reservations, I fear…” Tsukiko suggested, and I nodded.

“Yeah, I’m… not the biggest fan of your brother, sorry, Yukiko, but… while Henry may be a bit of an idiot, and Richard not overly keen on me, which I get… they’ve not done much to warrant being shoved aside.”

“Even so, it’s just life. I mean, Astral Emperor is for the whole world, Aki. No point living in denial. Sure, you can still have royal families and governments, you probably still need them to keep order, but that’s your decision. And no, I’m not thinking about what happens if someone else beats us to it. We’re the dream team here! Shit, we’ve got Tan, Mae, you, Shaeula, Asha and her Tree, and hell, from what Tan says, Hyacinth’s gone Super Saiyan or something… shit, she and her Cauldron could probably solo the world if she didn’t mind leaving it a wasteland. So yeah, we’d best all start thinking about this. It isn’t going to be easy, it might even take decades, but it’ll happen.” She suddenly laughed wickedly then.

“Hinata knows. She and Yu-mi are already digging at Korea, they joined your bro in bedshitting, Yuki, just on a bigger scale. While the nobility here, at least the smart ones like Miyu’s grandfather, or that loudmouth Mayumi’s, get the way things are going, and are letting us subsume Japan through their power and influence, thus being able to retain a good deal of it through you, and their daughter’s and granddaughter’s ties to you, and us… never forget, if attending the training camp means they become genuine friends with one or more of us, that’s a win long term… they don’t have to sneak into your bed naked and woo you, Aki, though that sure would be the best way, and I don’t think there’s a noble in Japan who doesn’t think that…”

“Many of the shrine families do too.” Tsukiko admitted. “Jealousy over Kana, and Shirohebizumi shrine, is terrible. After all, you are seen as the embodiment of the will of the Gods and Kami. A child from your lineage would be treated as a Kami themselves, to an extent. But rest assured, I manage matters, and none will risk crossing me. Even after my rebirth, my status within the faith remains unmatched, except perhaps only by our Priestess of Ise here, who agrees with me.”

As Yukiko nodded, Shiro continued her explanation.

“Anyway, the Japanese old nobles have clung on even through the War, and they know where the levers of power lie, and if they can’t move them themselves anymore, then they can sure as hell make sure they have their daughters close to those who do. Smart, really. But our South Korean friends…” Shiro’s smile was wicked, and I was reminded that despite her utter disinterest in anything that she wasn’t passionate about, Shiro was already quite smart, even before getting Tan’s influence. “…well, those Yu-mi has brought in are a great start. The chaebols and other big companies, families in politics… they don’t have the unity of the nobility, from what we’ve gathered, so… when Yu-mi and her friends start eating those from within, and their numbers grow… yeah, I can see Yu-mi in the Blue House, being your viceroy. Kind of cool. I guess for China, Daiyu could do it, or maybe…”

“I do not think Caihong’er would wish such a role.” Mae grimaced, showing her fangs. “All she cared about was her Cultivation, her daughter, and her Sect.”

“Yeah, so Daiyu might also be out, huh? Well, we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.” Shiro shrugged.

“I’m not getting a woman for every country in the damn world…” I insisted, horrified at the prospect, before shaking my head, unable to resist a joke, since Shiro’s spicy humour bounced off mine so well. “…I’d die next Christmas Eve, for one thing. Secondly, it’s not like every country is a monarchy, or has a spare Princess knocking about.”

“You could always steal a Queen or two then, NTR the Kings… I joke, I joke!” Shiro held up her hands charmingly at my exasperated look. “No, that’s what Adamant, and I guess your little Knight Order, maybe, could be good for. Damn, that gives me chills. I can hardly wait to visit Britain for New Years’ Honours. Anyway… yeah, we’ve strayed rather off topic…”

“And who do you think is at fault?” I teased, and Shiro shrugged.

“Sorry, but yeah… Yuki, I think even if you don’t see the need, it’ll be good for you. And for Mae too. Keeping busy is great. Don’t get me wrong, I wish we had more time to relax, but… that’ll come! And we’ll earn it by the work we put in now.”

“Well said.” I agreed, handing Shiro and Tsukiko drinks, before taking one myself. “Anyway, I promised I’d spent the night with you pair, I hope you don’t mind the extra company?”

“I would not dare.” Hana smirked knowingly. “I am grateful enough for your tender care and also spending some time with my dear grandmother Mae.” At Mae’s flat look, she merely chortled merrily. “After all, you cannot go back in time to change yourself, but you can start anew. And I for one am honoured to be here to see such. If I could go back in time, I would tell my past self that many amazing things I would never believe shall be in my future.”

“All right, enough joking. I’m curious about your training, Yukiko…” I interrupted.

It’s… oh, it’s definitely embarrassing, but…” Yukiko steadied herself, showing a warm smile, and I knew Shiro was right about my tastes. There was definitely something about the girl-next-door types in glasses which stirred my spirit. Of course it helps that Yukiko’s genuinely beautiful on the inside, and… her outer appearance is growing day by day to match that, not that she wasn’t cute before…

“Don’t stare at me, it makes me blush…” she pouted, only for Mae’s tail to whip over and gently slap her bottom. Yukiko jumped, though it obviously didn’t hurt.

“You make him blush when he gazes upon you. That is the way of an Empress. For those who are not in the public eye so much, it does not have the same level of importance, though all…” Mae eyed Shiro for a moment. “…could do with knowing the basics of power projection, and attention grabbing. Yet for those of you who will be required to command the public, it is vital. Beauty is a weapon, confidence is a weapon, power is a weapon. I shall show you the ways of all of them, and this little ugly du…”

“No, I’m doing it!” It seemed like Yukiko wanted to tear up and desperately stop Mae speaking. Hana knew why, judging by her riotous laughter, so much so she was gnawing on her own tails to try and stifle her cries, and as that was the backdrop, Yukiko took a deep breath, and began to move. Her walk was unlike her usual graceful stride, yet it was definitely still regal but emphasised her bearing. She’s using League and Majesty, Charm too, I see… but surprisingly subtly. I think… I can learn from this too…

Shiro settled down, letting Tan take charge again, while I sat down next to Mae, Tsukiko on my other side, watching as Mae gave shockingly insightful advice to Yukiko, correcting all the little mistakes and diffident body language, and as the hours passed by in merriment and laughter, I watched as Yukiko transformed little by little, as if a butterfly hatching from a cocoon…