On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor - Six Hundred And Sixty

“I’d love to say it was a pleasure to see you, Akio-san, but… I don’t think it is.” Yasaka-san greeted me with an oddly cheerful putdown as I entered the room he was staying in at the hospital. In one corner, Akai was clumsily peeling apples and oranges for him, though judging by the heaps of discarded peels and the fact her hands (and mouth) were stained with juice, she’d been doing a terrible job, and was snacking on his treats more than he was.

“Hey now, that’s harsh.” I pulled up a chair, next to Gin-san, who was also here bright and early this morning, dressed impeccably in his priestly robes. The Pilgrimage through Kyoto had apparently run smoothly, thanks largely to aid from him and the priests of the former Tsukuyomi and Amaterasu factions based here in the old capital. My part of the Pilgrimage was rushed, to make time for Mount Atago, and I needed a rest afterwards, so dismissed my Astral body, Yes, I had mental updates from Eri about everyone’s progress and training afterwards, but… oh well, I’ll catch up on the gossip later today. Though…

I thought back to Haru’s warning as I continued addressing Yasaka-san, who was drinking a clay mug of fragrant tea, propped up in bed, though again the sheets were a little messy, doubtless thanks to Akai’s kind but clumsy efforts. If it was a serious issue, Haru wouldn’t have been reticent. So it’s likely just a minor annoyance. Don’t be a pushover, huh? Honestly, I’m quite certain I’m capable of resisting temptation, I’m a guy, my head is often turned by a pretty face or sexy figure, but… I’m not starving for attention or affection. Though…

I had to admit to myself, there were perhaps a few women, who if they genuinely came out and confessed to me, I’d give them serious consideration, even now. Despite me being massively outnumbered, I still can’t help the way I feel. But… it very much sounded like it wasn’t one of those, and if anyone would know my deepest thoughts, even the ones I didn’t even comprehend or admit fully myself, it was Haru.

“I did the best I could putting you back together, and you’re as good as new. In fact, you probably don’t even need to be in the hospital, do you?”

“Hah.” Yasaka-san grunted a tired laugh. “No, probably not, but I’m making the most of it. I’m exhausted and need a good rest. For some obvious reason, I don’t feel rested.”

“Hardly.” Gin-san interrupted cheerfully. “You slept more than long enough, isn’t that right, Akai?” he addressed the timid Phoenix chick.

“That’s right. I’m… glad you woke up, grumpy old man. It wasn’t right without you here!” Akai pouted adorably. “Here.” She proffered an apple, sliced into rather crude bunnies, and there was also a rather misshapen bird, which was perhaps Akai’s attempt at an apple Phoenix.

“Thank you, little chick.” Yasaka-san took the proffered plate, and picked up the bird apple, eyeing it with a mixture of amusement and exasperation. “It’s… you, I guess?”

“You guess? Bad, grumpy old man!” Akai kicked out her feet in desultory fashion, puffing out her cheeks. “Go back to sleep!”

“Now then, Akai, that’s rude.” Gin-san chided. “You know the old have poor eyesight.”

“I’m not that old.” Yasaka-san ran his hand through his thin, greying hair, though after my Chirurgery and Ether Healing, it had thickened and darkened somewhat, and the wrinkles around his eyes were shallower and less pronounced. “Not enough to lose my vision, anyway.” He took a bite of the apple, crunching it. “Not bad.” He then took a sip of tea, and there was silence, until he carefully placed his mug down.

“I suppose I should thank you, Akio-san. And also apologise.”

I raised a hand to forestall that, but Yasaka-san shook his head. “I was careless. I never thought that anyone would target Namba Yasaka-jinja, of all places. Yes, it’s a fairly major shrine in Osaka, and a tourist attraction, but… why there, why me?”

“It isn’t just your fault, Yasaka-san.” Gin-san offered reasonably. “We thought the main thrust of any attack would be at Kyoto and Tokyo, and we were right. But they moved for you specifically. We had guards and assistants protecting your Territory there, but it seemed… such a waste… to scupper your efforts on the mere prospect, limited as it was, of danger.”

“Efforts.” Yasaka-san snorted. “Compared to others, I barely even register. Honestly, I barely paid my Territory much mind, letting my assistant you granted me handle such matters, Saionji-sama.”

“No need for the formalities.” Gin-san shrugged. “I’m no longer the master here. Anyway, sadly, what’s done is done, but… you were fortunate indeed to survive.”

“Yeah.” My Eyes glowed, checking he was in good health, or as good as could be expected. His spirit was still slightly scarred, and his Truesoul, faint and indistinct as it was, generated more soullight than it should, a clear sign of a deeper, unhealed wound. “You really were. Honestly, the Levelling and general training you did toughened you up enough that you didn’t die from the shock of being Conquered.”

“So I suppose I should thank you for the hell you put me through then.” Yasaka-san chuckled.

“Being strong is important. Otherwise… the scary ones will do what they want with you!” Akai insisted, giving me a sidelong glance, her crimson eyes pensive. She wasn’t as frightened of me as she was before, but her wariness crept back often.

“I keep telling you, you’re safe with me, Akai. You’re a good girl, I’d never hurt you.” I promised. “But you’re also wise in one regard. Yeah, strength is everything now. And speaking of… can you feel your Skill?” I asked our patient.

Yasaka-san nodded. “Yes. It’s… within me, for want of a better expression. Like I’m no longer reaching out to something greater, to Minerva and her endless wisdom. It’s almost as if my own intuition and memory are put in a blender and the outcome is the answer. It doesn’t feel pleasant, but… at least it doesn’t fry my tender brain.”

“All of that could have been alleviated with more Determination and Resilience.” I clicked my tongue. Honestly, I find it a bit hard to deal with Yasaka-san. I can’t understand why he won’t put his all into his training. Yes, it’s exhausting, painful, dangerous, but… I’m surrounded by those who never hesitate. My sis, the members of Adamant like Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan… hell, even Miyu, who was more reluctant than Yasaka-san at first, Dances until her feet bleed and her legs ache. Or perhaps… perhaps he’s the normal one, and we’re all crazy? I don’t know anymore…

“Yes, but we’re not all masochists like you.” He finished off the apple slices, biting into them with satisfaction. “But it doesn’t matter. I suppose I’m of limited use now, but once I’ve rested and recovered, had a few days off…” his tone was wheedling now, and Akai smiled cheerfully. “…I’ll be happy to dig into it. I suppose you’ll want to sift what’s left over for grains of gold within the sand, yes?”

I nodded. “Yes, so until then, don’t be doing anything reckless. There’s one subject we’d love you to confirm a few details on, assisting the Oracle Engine, but… caution is the watchword. After all…” The glow of my Eyes intensified, and I could see the shadow of a faint, fragile, embryonic Path hanging overhead and around me. “…what has been stolen from you, ripped away… was once part of you, and… in some regards, is still Connected.”

“Connected, hmm?” Gin-san mused. “I can hear the capital letter in your voice.”

“Yes. So we need to be very careful. But…” my Eyes followed the distant threads of soullight. “…it does mean that perhaps the Favour you lost can be regained, or at the very least, we can make the recipient of stolen goods pay the price.”

“A bit rich coming from you, Akio-kun.” Gin-san chuckled heartily, amused at the prospect of striking back at those who hated his faith and had attacked his shrine and his allies. “Considering you follow the rule of plunder yourself.”

“For the best reasons.” I retorted piously, and my supercilious expression sent Akai into giggles, and she doubled over, clutching her chest. 

“Sure, sure.” Gin-san agreed. “I believe you, though your enemies wouldn’t.”

“In all seriousness, I never do it lightly. That’s the difference between us.” I let out a quiet sigh. “Anyway, I’m glad you’re okay, Yasaka-san.”

“As am I. Though I sympathise more with Suzuki-san. You nearly ended up working me to death too. But… it’s fine.” He managed a wry smile. “I accept I was careless, and… despite everything, I didn’t take matters as seriously as I should have. That’s something I can’t accuse you of, Akio-san, or you… Gin-san. Oh, and call me Yoshio. If you can bear to be so informal with a tired old man like me.”

“Age is just an accumulation of wisdom. Hopefully, anyway, Yoshio-san.” My smile spoiled the pious sentiments. “I don’t claim to be able to grant longevity and eternal youth yet, but with Ether Healing and higher stats, I wouldn’t be surprised if even relatively ordinary people could live healthily into the low hundreds and only seem like in their sixties or seventies. Some few might go longer.”

“Which will make you very wealthy indeed.” Gin-san smirked knowingly. “I just hope you don’t forget your old pals here, who’ve supported you early on.”

“I’m not one for ingratitude, but I seem to remember Conclave going rather differently, where you tried to use me…” I trailed off meaningfully, and Yasaka-san… no, Yoshio-san, barked out a laugh, and even Akai giggled again, as Gin-san waved that off airily.

“Water under the bridge, and I was doing it for mutual benefit. Anyway…” he glanced down at his watch. “…don’t you have places to be, Akio-kun?”

“I do. Anyway… here.” I handed over the small basket of individually wrapped sweets and pastries I’d grabbed from a famous patisserie here in Kyoto (or rather, Haru had arranged to be delivered late last night, the consummate professional as ever). Seeing Akai drooling, adding more mess to her face, I chuckled, and passed her some extras I had in my storage.

“For… for me?” she asked, hesitating, despite reaching our reflexively, and as Gin-san rolled his eyes at her, his smile exasperated, I nodded.

“Yeah. For being a good girl and looking after Yoshio-san here. And I’ll bring Aine and Tsurugi to play when we’re not so busy. Okay?”

“Thank you.” Akai muttered politely, before sniffing me, getting far closer to me than she ever had before. “You… you’ve changed. You smell like me now. Like a fire that’s soothing, not… not so frightening.”

“Well honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if you’re more of a Hōō or a Fenghuang than a Phoenix, considering where you were found, but… yes, Suzaku’s flames burn within ne now, nourishing my own. So maybe I’m sort of like an uncle to you?” I winked, and Akai giggled, while Yoshio-san and Gin-san exchanged amused glances.

“He’s the sort of strange uncle I wouldn’t let near my kids, if I had any. He brings sweets, he might try and lure her into a beat-up old van.” Yoshio-san chuckled, and Gin-san joined in the teasing.

“Actually, he’d be far more insidious. His vehicle would be a Bentley or a Benz, with blacked-out windows, and there would be his women inside, beckoning them in innocently…”

“Hey now.” I displayed mock-anger, patting Akai’s head. “That’s hurtful. I’m not a predator. Anyway…” The gifts given, I nodded to Yoshio-san once final time. “…I do have to go. It’s time to head to the hidden village of our impractical ninjas. Though I’m told it’s not actually Kōka village, like the culture of Japan would have us believe.”

“I daresay you will have a great deal of fun then.” Gin-san chuckled. “Oh, I shall see you later.”

Later? Okay then. I nodded, and with that I was out the door, heading to the rendezvous with our transportation. Firstly, we’d be hitting a dozen or so true shrines across Osaka, Kobe and Wakayama, before detouring into the mountains of Yoshino-Kumano national park, where the hidden village was nestled in the mountains, off the beaten path of civilisation. Though obviously roads to it do exist, they’re just… maintained in a manner to give the illusion of being rickety and treacherous, deterring visitors, though few would go to a national park to go to backwaters like that anyway. Curious… I admit to being eager to find out just what real ninjas, or at least their descendants, are like. Though if it’s a village full of Michiru-sans, or her father… then suddenly I don’t feel so keen after all…

***

“Are you ready for this?” I asked, after the Pilgrims had all gathered and been transported to our destination by Arisu-san’s Room, bypassing the slow roads through the mountainous park, saving us precious time. “Oh, and that’s… quite the fashion choice today, Miyu.”

“If it is strange, I do apologise.” she replied, her tone calm and composed. She was wearing a shockingly heavy silk garment, the Jūnihitoe, a multi-layered formal robe, though the outer layer she wore was a pretty sakura pink, and set off her delicate, refined features well. Her hair was also pulled back, though it wasn’t parted in the middle, thankfully, which would have looked strange on a young woman like her, though the long ponytail it was tied in was a fresh look for her.

“It’s not strange, you’re as beautiful as ever.” I insisted. “It’s just…” I glanced down, and she was wearing wooden geta sandals too, though they also had small bells tied to them, which chimed softly as she took tiny steps. “…a bit impractical for Pilgrimage, especially in such a mountainous village.”

Indeed, the true Kōga village, though it wasn’t called that on the map, going instead by Kotora, a rather odd name for a village, either an endearment for a child, or referring to someone unable to hold their liquor, was in the mountains, and so was very hilly and uneven.

“Also…” I continued. “…isn’t that heavy to walk around in all day?”

“It most certainly is.” Miyu agreed, surprising me. “I would certainly not wear this for anything but the most formal of dance performances, and even then, I usually wear wafuku kimono. Fortunately, with my increased Might, it is not an overly onerous burden, despite weighing over twenty kilograms. And today… I feel I shall need it. Consider it my armour, Akio-kun.” She surprised me by winking, an animated gesture which wasn’t lost on the burly, ostentatious man accompanying us, the father of Michiru-san and Kozue-san, Koga Takeshi.

“You are quite lovely today, Miyu-ojou.” he declared boldly. At over six feet in height, and being built very sturdily, if I was putting it charitably, Koga-san was a strange and intimidating sight. As usual, he wore a black suit, and today his shirt was purple, with a red tie, and the colours didn’t gel at all. With his brown eyes rather softer than his appearance would suggest, and his small moustache that didn’t suit his facial features, it made assessing him rather confusing. Which perhaps is the point, maybe?

Michiru-san, in her usual Hanafubuki school uniform, despite her not attending currently due to the winter break and Church attack, as well as her voluminous red scarf, nodded, well pleased. Though I note she’s wearing her Adamant rank insignia still, and has even added the shoulder decorations from the jacket to her sailor shirt. “Yes indeed, honoured father. Miyu-sama is the very image of the Goddess Ame-no-Uzume herself!”

That didn’t go down well with her sister, Kozue-san. The younger girl, who wore a more practical black tracksuit, though she too had a (much shorter) red scarf around her neck, frowned, her eyes hard. “Don’t talk nonsense, sister. If anyone is a Goddess, it should be Honoka-sama! When she dances, it is sheer perfection. I have to question the wisdom of Japan’s traditional Gods and Kami if…”

“Kozue!” Honoka, who was dressed in ad Adamant uniform of black leather skirt, white shirt, black jacket and hat, with golden epaulettes and rank badges, spoke quickly, her tone hard. “I have told you, you should not speak to your sister that way. It shames you, and it shames me. Besides, I think Miyu…” She stumbled a little not giving her an honorific, but I was pleased to see they’d become much closer. “…dances beautifully. Ageha-sensei praises my technical aspects, but… I have no heart. No emotion. I did not even understand that I was lacking such. Until…” Her face fell a little, and Miyu tutted, glancing at me, and I knew what she wanted.

“Kozue…-chan.” I changed my honorific, to try and close the distance between us. Michiru-san was hard enough to understand, but her younger sister was a prickly ball of aggression and disdain, and while Honoka and Miyu had certainly been trying to help them get along, Kozue-chan was prone to temperamental backsliding, it seemed. “I get that you’re upset that Honoka…” I omitted the honorific again, since I called Miyu without it, and I could tell that the cousins were really trying to get closer, so I didn’t want my treatment to add artificial barriers between them. Though… I do wish Honoka wouldn’t blush and shuffle shyly so. I know she’s got no resistance to men, but… oh well, the Pilgrimage hopefully helped with her exposure, she can’t live isolated forever, especially not now. Fortunately she’s my ward, and so her arranged marriage is cancelled too. Else… I don’t think she would have had a good time at first, when she graduated Hanafubuki and became someone’s trophy wife. It’s not like she could have run Fujiwara house herself with the biases in her education. Another troubling aspect of the nobility we’ll change…

“…is no longer the stated heir to Fujiwara house. But then, neither is Miyu, technically.”

“Yes, that is true. As Akio-kun’s Vassal, it is simply unthinkable for me to inherit. As I would have to put his interests ahead of the house itself. I… chose this myself. I have my pride, though you may not think so, Kozue. And… Honoka is in the same position. As she swears the uniform.”

“It… Hidemasa-sama was the one at fault, not Honoka-sama…” Kozue-chan grumbled, incensed, and I wove a little wind element to keep the noise of the argument from spreading to the other groups of Pilgrims who were gathering, ready to enter the village, at least when the village elder came to allow entry. I spotted Hinata with Sakura-chan and Mayumi-chan, and she gave me a grateful look, winking and miming zipping her lips. Yeah, I get it. Nothing good comes of such high-profile noble daughters and their bodyguards fighting in public. It’s a prestige thing…

“…she has been working hard, improving herself her whole life, always polite, charming, studious. Excelling in dance, the violin, flower arranging, tea ceremony…”

“As has Miyu.” I spoke softly, gently. “But you’re going about this all wrong, Kozue-chan. It’s not about rivalry, or who’s better, it’s about family…”

“What would you know, interloper, outsider!” she shot back, her tone heated and aggressive. “You inveigled your way into Fujiwara-sama’s good graces, and somehow seized control of Honoka-sama and her cousin for nefarious purposes, I would not be surprised…”

“Kozue! Enough!” Koga-san’s tone was hard, and she shot him a murderous glare, before pulling up her scarf, hiding her mouth, though my ears could pick up her chewing her lip, frustrated. “Your mistress asked you to stop this, and worse…” he grinned at me. “…you’re the husband-to-be of Hinata-ojou, and Mayumi-ojou claims you are her best friend, along with Hinata-ojou. Sakura-ojou’s warming to you too… so…” He turned his gaze back on his youngest daughter. “…you’re throwing mud on Honoka-ojou’s honour, on the honour of all the Three Great Houses, and worse, on the effective heir to Takatsukasa house, Akio-dono, as Hinata-ojou will surely want to follow that noble tradition.” He softened his tone, reaching out for his daughter, hesitating, then withdrawing his hand regretfully at her steely stare.

“I know being here makes you furious, Kozue. You think our ways all a lot of nonsense, but… you can’t let it dictate your actions.”

“I do not despite this village. I despite what you and Michiru have made of its ways…” she muttered, disputing her father’s words. “I…”

“If you cause Akio-sama…” Honoka deliberately lowered herself. “…any further trouble, Kozue, I shall be forced to atone for you. As your mistress, and… I like to think, your friend… I shall take full responsibility.” She then bowed before me, very deeply. “I apologise on her behalf. But she is only doing it out of misplaced care for me. If you wish to punish her, instead, do with me as you will. Grandfather gave me to you, after all.”

“I think you misconstrue just what he meant by that.” I choked, and I gently took her arm, easing her out of her bow. “I’m basically here, with help from Hinata and the others, to mould you over the next few years until you’re of age, into a well-trained, well-respected practitioner of the new arts. That way, your father’s stigma will be gone, and you have options in your life. Now then… can we all just smile and get along? I have to be honest, I’m curious. And I’m not alone in that.”

Indeed, I caught sight of Yasu-kun and my other friends eagerly watching the descent of an old man and two young, gorgeous women from the entrance to the village. Many of the idols and foreign members of our group, such as Trey and his Fenrir forces, were also enthusiastic, and as they approached us, I let loose the anti-eavesdropping barrier of wind I was weaving, checked Tsurugi at my waist, listening to the gentle mental snores she was giving off, and then stepped up, Koga-san following. Yeah, that’s… a painful stare he’s getting from the old man…

“I have returned, Jōnin Furuihonō.” Koga-san nodded respectfully, though I could tell the fierce glare was discomforting him. I heard my sis, who was also watching eagerly, mutter to Eri that ‘he should have been a Kage, right?’ and I tried my best not to chuckle.

“So you have.” He turned his stern gaze on Michiru-san and Kozue-chan too, and his expression softened. “Along with your daughters. And… interesting faces. We get much news from outside. After all, our roots go deep.” He bowed to me and gestured to the two beautiful women. “These are the Kunoichi sisters, Byakuren and Kokuren. They are both Chūnin, so skilled and capable. I daresay you will not have much issue visiting the shrine to noble Marishiten, and the priest awaits. They will attend to any and all of your needs, so feel free to avail yourself of their expert services.”

Yeah, that’s a trap if ever I’ve seen one. I wasn’t going to fall for it, but I was proven correct, as the two women, one wearing white silken shirt and pants, the shirt open to reveal generous cleavage, and a mesh undershirt that covered little, the other matching her in black, but without the undershirt, her black hair pulled into a ponytail, bowed deeply to me. With their rather explosive figures, and long, slender legs which were shown in exquisite detail by their silken leggings, if I was single, I’d definitely have cracked in an instant. Luckily, I’m not. My expanded vision picked up Yukiko coming over, and indeed she greeted the old man, though her expression was a little scary.

Spoiler

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“Noble Jōnin, I consulted the records and spoke to Koga-san here…” the big man nodded, slightly ashamed. “…about your village and the legacy of your traditional ninja ways. I apologise that the Imperial Family has long abandoned you, leaving you to your own devices, but even so… please do not try and bribe my fiancé with… if I may be frank… prostitutes.”

The two beautiful Kunoichi remained expressionless and composed, and Furuihonō shook his head, his expression tired. “You mistake me. Besides, though like all Kunoichi, they learned the art of seduction and how to allure and please a man, they are untouched virgins. Only women’s hands have taught them. We would hardly deign to insult the man of the moment, the Hero of Britain, Savior of South Korea… and indeed your chosen Imperial Consort, Princess Mikasa.”

He bowed low again, showing off their knowledge of goings-on outside their hidden village. “We ninja are not averse to modern technological advancements, no, in fact, it makes our roles as spies, assassins and saboteurs easier. Information is the currency of victory.” He smiled at me. “The Black and White Lotus sisters have not been ordered to serve, they volunteered, and… shall follow you from this place, to be our liaison. After all, this is why you came, not just for Marishiten’s temple. We shall discuss… renewed contracts of cooperation. And perhaps… our own Chosen.” He laughed, and I suddenly realised what he meant, though even as my Eyes glowed, the two women spoke.

“If you wish us to warm your bed, or tend to your needs, simply say so.” Byakuren, the woman in white, offered, and her sister, who shared a lot of the same facial features, but was a little shorter, with wider hips and larger breasts, smiled, her lips pained blood red with scarlet lipstick.

“Yes, it would be an honour to bear your child, the blood would be strong, and we would teach them ways of both Ninjutsu and Taijutsu, and what it is to be a wielder of these new powers.”

“You’re both Chosen then. Of Marishiten.” I realised, and they agreed.

“Yes.” Byakuren suddenly released light element, and turned invisible, a very useful trick, while Kokuren plunged the area into darkness, muffling light, sound and even smell, though my Eyes could still perceive her by the flow of aether and elemental energies.

“We are masters of stealthy arts and assassination now. And… we also have great fortune.” Kokuren boasted, before dismissing the blinding cloud, which also seemed to dull the senses of those around us, though Yukiko, Miyu and I seemed largely immune to it.

“Yes.” Yukiko agreed, unimpressed, and a halo of sunlight appeared behind her, the flames and light now far more powerful, considering she had properly integrated the two mutated variants together. “However, the demonstration was… ill-timed. We have young girls present.” She let the flames flare, suitably intimidating, before they winked out, leaving several carefully placed burned spots in the ground before the three from the village, rays of light clearly having pierced accurately where Yukiko intended.

“My apologies. The young… do so like to show off.” Furuihonō bowed deeply, followed by the two women. Young? They look around Shiro’s age, give or take, if I had to guess. So… yeah, maybe that is young. I don’t feel old myself…

Ignoring the hubbub from the gathered Pilgrims behind us watching the spectacle, my sis included, who I was now regretting watching the orange jump-suited ninja anime with when she was a bored young girl, since she was being annoyingly enthusiastic, her good mood from last night’s partying having remained undimmed, I placed a hand on Yukiko’s.

“It’ll be fine. An… honest mistake. But we could certainly use a couple more Chosen, couldn’t we? Though I don’t feel a Territory around here…”

“If you mean a foothold in the other realm, which your new government Ministry calls a Territory…” the Jōnin revealed more of his hand. “…then of course our trained and blessed Kunoichi would not be so foolish. It is a boon, yes, but… also a fatal weakness. Unless one is unshakeably powerful, it is a small cut through which a clever enemy may induce a deadly poison.”

The two Kunoichi nodded, and the white-clad woman spoke for them both. “Indeed, though should you command it, we can deploy it as you wish. Our lives are yours, to be freely spent. Though it would be better if we left descendants behind first, so our family graves do not go untended, and our lineage learns our… proper… skills.”

Koga-san flinched at that. “I know our Arts well enough. Koga-style is based on Kōga Ninjutsu. But the modern world has changed. Even you rely on modern tools here.”

“Yes, but… the core principles… oh, what is the use. Your… father will see you. And bring his granddaughters.” Furuihonō declared, smiling at the young bodyguards of the Fujiwara girls, though Kozue-chan seemed rather more pleased about it than Michiru-san, who followed her father’s views. “As for you others, lead them to the temple.” he asked the women. “Then stick close to our honoured guest Oshiro-dono and meet his needs.”

“I think I will take charge of you both.” Yukiko stepped in front of me defensively, eyeing the busty and terribly attractive women. “I appreciate the offer of cooperation, noble Furuihonō, but… as a woman, I am best placed to understand and utilise such… assets.” She turned to me, her smile bright, but behind that I knew danger lurked. “I trust you don’t object?”

“Of course not.” I nodded quickly, no longer the idiot who missed women’s danger signs that I used to be. Well, I don’t miss most of them, anyway. Byakuren and Kokuren bowed, acceding to the request, but the Jōnin elder here was displeased.

“Of course, if that is your wish. They will serve in any way required, even if asked to go on suicide missions. But do you not feel a hint of shame, Princess Mikasa? After all…” His smile was outwardly gentle, but then ninja were supposedly adept at masking their true feelings. He glanced up the narrow mountain road to the village gates, and beside them was what seemed to be a satellite tower, no doubt allowing the village access to mobile phone signals and TV. “We saw your broadcast. Very exciting.”

The women in white and black both nodded, agreeing, and Yukiko bit down on a sigh as the elder continued to press.

“I am happy you are engaged. It is a cause for celebration, when a member of the Imperial Family announces their marriage. But…” his smile held little mirth. “…you were not first, not even fifth. Perhaps not tenth.” His even tone made the words more biting, and I gently laced my fingers through Yukiko’s hand, and she smiled gratefully at my intimate gesture.

“…so it seems rather churlish and petty to prevent others from approaching Oshiro-dono, especially since with Byakuren and Kokuren they would not only offer him body and heart, but live and die for him at his word…”

Before either of us could answer, Koga-san interrupted, his tone scathing. “And that’s one reason I hate this village.” He crossed his arms, making him seem more imposing, his purple shirt stretched to breaking point by his muscular torso. “Now I get it, it’s a ninja’s pride to die for their master, but… it’s more important to protect the master’s heart and will. And Akio-dono here, and Mikasa-hime, I am sure, they would take it as a personal failure were those serving them to die. But you know that.”

He narrowed his steely brown gaze. “It’s all just misdirection. Don’t get me wrong, Akio-dono…” he assured me. “…they would definitely be loyal and do as you bid, but… if they were to die, or bear your children, either way… you would be tied to them by chains of obligation or regret you can’t ever break.”

I nodded, understanding. “Yes. I get that. And…” I pulled Yukiko close, so our shoulders were touching. I heard whistles from behind us (and a boo that I suspected was Aliyah…) “…I’m not desperate enough for female companionship that I want or need bed slaves. But…” I nodded politely. “…I do favour an alliance. Though I’ll leave my adorable…” I gave her a chaste kiss on the cheek. “…fiancée here to handle the negotiations.”

“I will.” Yukiko nodded. “I find the Onmyōdō Bureau easier to deal with, but… it’s about time that the Imperial Family reclaimed control of the heritage of ninjas that has remained in our land since ancient times. Come.” She disentangled our hands, a little regretfully, and clapped. Moments later, the two Chūnin fell in behind her, though they gave me very deep bows as they passed, again, quite the sight.

“In that case, matters are resolved. You are a man who… exceeds expectations.” the old man said to me, and I doubted it was entirely a compliment. “Very well then. I bid you all welcome to the village of Kōga. Follow me, and I will guide you to Marishiten’s humble temple, where we pray for fortunate successes in life’s endeavours and our missions, prosperity to the village, and that we may go unnoticed on the battlefield, and resist all ills.”

He opened his arms wide, and I couldn’t help but nod. A grand declaration, but… very fitting for an old ninja…

***

Walking through the village was quite the experience. It was smaller and humbler even than Nishimorioka, in many respects, yet… I had glanced at the metal tower by the gate, and it was indeed state-of-the-art technology, and was way better than anything we’d had back home. I bet they never have to worry about signal drops during storms, or patchy coverage due to mountains blocking the signal…

The houses were all small, neat, and faded into the surrounding mountainside, with small windows and heavy doors, perfectly defensible. Are they… murder holes? Yeah… this is a natural fortress…

The people going about their daily business, and even the young children, who were playing with footballs or throwing frisbees, seemed ordinary, but now I had the experience and the high stats to notice, I could see all of them, even the children, were moving with abnormal, trained grace. It wasn’t extreme, like Chosen or those of us who’d had Chirurgery, but… it was on the level of a professional athlete, and… far more focused. Everyone’s perfectly balanced, able to move in any direction in an instant no matter what they’re doing. And those games of frisbee and football sure do seem to be rather more… militant… in nature.

“Everyone here must study the way of the ninja.” Michiru-san, who’d been silent for a while, looking around with a melancholy expression on her face, scarf pulled up to hide her mouth, sighed. “I respect that. I am proud of my own talents, but… even though they incorporate modern tools, the methods are still outdated. Honoured father wanted to modernise…”

“You are wrong!” Kozue-chan barked, before lowering her voice. “You are wrong, Michiru!” She took a deep breath. “He…” She didn’t even call him father or use his name. “…only wants to show off. No wonder mother is so disgusted with him.”

Koga-san winced at that, but remained silent as we approached the impressive temple at the top of the mountain, the walls plated in burnished copper, the usual Komainu statues guarding the site replaced by similar statues of fierce pigs, with blade-like tusks, the site surrounded by a variety of mirrors. Michiru-san, however, was furious.

“Mother is being disrespectful! Honoured father… yes, sometimes I find him a little annoying…”

Ouch, that has to sting.

“…but his teachings have made us strong, Kozue!”

“What is strength if we are made sport of, mocked?” Kozue-chan retorted. “Such brings shame to our mistresses! You might not care, but I do, and what you do reflects on me, and on Honoka-sama!”

“We’ve been through this.” I sighed gently. “Now… isn’t the time for such arguments. Take a look around. It’s a wonderful temple isn’t it, and they’ve even set up the tents for our trip to the Boundary as Koga-san requested. So we might as well enjoy the spectacle. The view from up here is wonderful, and the air is clean.” I glanced out over the national park, spread out for miles down below. “Don’t worry, we can talk this over when you meet your grandfather. Don’t you think the sisters should get along, Miyu, Honoka?”

The two of them agreed, and it looked like Miyu wanted to say something, as she was fidgeting, her many-layered robes blowing in the mountainside breeze. But what she did then say surprised me. “Koga-san…”

“Me?” he asked, pointing to himself, and she nodded gracefully.

“Yes, you indeed, Koga-san. I could ask the leader of the village, but…” She glanced over, to see him talking earnestly with Yukiko, Tsukiko having joined her, Shaeula too, the pair of Kunoichi having drawn their interest. I’m surprised Shiro hasn’t been fangirling over them. It seems the sort of thing to delight her. Although… Kana was absent as discussed last night, but I didn’t see Shiro either. I sent a thought to Eri, and she replied that Shiro and Asha had returned to my Territory, as the final push was coming.

Already? It’s getting further ahead of schedule every day. I turned my attention inward, to the link between Haru’s Territory and mine, thanks to her Pledged Vassal Class. Yeah, the ether is quite a bit higher than I expected. Is it… Bonded Resonance Link had barely been bothering me, so I assumed that Shiro kept deactivating her buff, but on checking, I could see that instead the load was being distributed over everyone, and they were ignoring their own discomforts. I couldn’t say I was happy about that, but… It’s fine. When this upgrade is done, we can be more sensible about matters…

“…I expect you might know.” Miyu continued. “I… have a need for something, before we leave.” Beside her, Michiru-san nodded firmly, as if supporting her. “Is there… a cave, where we can have some privacy, no watching eyes?”

A cave, huh?

“An interesting request, Miyu-ojou. Privacy, you say? For whom, if I may ask? Your security is our concern, if Shige-dono finds out we let you go unescorted… besides, Michiru will never allow it.”

“Michiru will be there, of course. She is my bodyguard, nothing shall change that.” Miyu promised. “And… Akio-kun shall be there too, so my safety is assured.”

“I see.” Koga-san rubbed at his chin, thinking. “There are certainly a few caves around, jou-chan.” He used a very informal manner of address. “But without prying eyes, here, in this village of voyeurs and spies… a troubling request. Rather difficult. Leave it with me.” He smiled boldly. “If I can’t manage that, then I’m not Koga Takeshi, master ninja. Though first…” His cheerful expression faltered. “…If you wish Michiru’s assistance, you will have to wait, until I’ve seen my damn fool of a father. He’ll want to see his granddaughters again. And to lecture me about nonsense as always…”

“Yes, and we need to conduct our business here.” I agreed, and Miyu nodded, and I noticed that not only was her attire formal and elegant, but her face was made up too, subtle, but emphasising her charms. I don’t remember her making such an effort on previous days of the Pilgrimage.

Seeing me staring, Miyu smiled slightly, and though it was hard to tell due to her makeup, her face lightly powdered bone white, I thought maybe she was a little pink. “Come then, Akio-kun. I confess, Pilgrimage has broadened my…” she glanced at Honoka, who also smiled reassuringly at her older cousin. “…our horizons. But I have never seen a temple dedicated to a Goddess revered by ninjas. I am intrigued. Come now…” she held out a hand to me. “…my feet ache a little due to the geta sandals. They are not made for walking long distances over uneven terrain. Please escort me properly.”

I think being in Michiru’s hometown is making her emotional. It makes me wonder what she needs the cave for. If it’s what I think… I grinned at Michiru, having a good idea. I took Miyu’s hand, and began leading her towards the entrance to the temple, while she supported her weight on my shoulder, her steps small and elegant, Michiru-san trailing behind us, keeping a watchful eye out. …then Michiru-san is in for quite the treat…