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

“Thank you for coming.” Morita-san announced when everyone was seated, our guests on the opposite side of the table to us, next to the two suspect staffers, which was clearly preying on their minds, as the man was sweating profusely, and the woman, while trying to appear composed, seemed rather focussed, her breathing faster than was normal. “I trust you all know why you are here?”

At her words, I wasn’t the only one inspecting our guests carefully, watching for any suspicious signs. Chiyo-san seemed confused, but one of her granddaughters… the youngest. Makes sense… Yuuna-san is an Officer in Adamant now. So it’s unlikely she could be a leak. But Yuuri-san… yeah…

It was Hazuki Kanami-san, another Adamant Officer, and daughter of the Three-Hundred, who answered, gazing at Hinata and me with her face flushed and eyes moist.

I think… she’s clean. Or a genius at disguising her thoughts. They are woefully transparent. Haru’s voice sounded in my mind. Of course, she’s a little annoying in other ways, but I shouldn’t take it out on her, I’m the mature one here.

“Surely this is an omiai. You’ve seen my performance, and have been impressed. I’m not foolish enough to think it’s for marriage, to equal you or Motoko-sama, Hinata-sama, but… as a concubine…” She was a petite, sporty-looking girl, black hair cut rather short for a noble daughter, and her hazel-brown eyes were sparkling as she gazed at us like a puppy about to be given a treat. “…don’t worry, I’ll do my best, be it in battle, training or… or the bedroom.” She suddenly tittered. “I shouldn’t speak of such things here, it’s improper in company, but… Megumi-chan will be so jealous…”

Megumi-chan? Oh, that’s Watari-san’s given name, isn’t it? She’s… kind of hard to forget. Though I’m letting her nowhere near Motoko and Natsumi! At least not alone.

Overprotective much? Haru’s thoughts were wry. Don’t you trust them? No, I know that you do. Oh, I see. You act like this to show you care for them, get jealous to please. It’s rather cute.

Okay, okay, enough teasing. My jealousy is still real, I assure you. That aside, the parents, then?

Haru nodded slowly. Though I’ll let things take their course. I’m not going to blindly rely on Telepathy, though… you must have noticed.

Of course. Don’t even need my Eyes, I’m intimately acquainted with her powers, and it’s the sort of clever trick she’s probably cooked up with Hinata. Besides, she’s in my thoughts too. I glanced towards the grate which was linked to the air conditioning for the room, before turning my attention back to the group, as Hiroto-san spoke up casually, and Hinata squeezed my hand.

“Don’t be silly, Kanami-chan…” he grinned rakishly, and I wasn’t surprised he was on a first-name basis with the younger woman, and it seemed neither was Hinata, judging by her sour expression. Eri merely watched on, occasionally whispering commentary to Ileana and Valeska, while our ninja sisters were acting like Haru’s support staff, professional secretaries, their attire close enough to pass for very casual interns.

“…my sister wouldn’t do that in public. At the Ministry. It’d be at the Tengokusentou tomorrow, right? There’s a big ceremony. Gifts, awards, yeah?” He grinned at us, and I couldn’t detect any guilt. Just like the ninja intelligence says. He’s a bit too careless a man who likes girls far too much, not a traitor. Still, we have to deal with it… “Though maybe you’ll still get lucky. If I was Akio, I’d be more than willing to take you and your friends on. Sorry Hinata, but it’s true! Men like variety, and Akio-kun’s like me, far too young to settle down.” As her expression darkened, he realised he’d gone too far. “Oh, but any man would be happy with you, Hinata. You’re a total catch.”

“She is indeed.” I agreed, forestalling this mess, and Hiroto-san shrugged.

“No, it’s probably financial or something like that. I and my sister can speak for Fukumoto house, and your parents are the principal owners of Hazuki and Partners LLC, a major auditing and financial firm, with many clients here and across the English-speaking world.”

I didn’t miss that, and neither did Hinata, Haru, or surprisingly, Eri, but then her senses were abnormally keen now. Hazuki-san’s parents alternately went pale and winced, though they hid it well. Staring to see a picture here.

“If so, why the hell are we here?” the delinquent apprentice priest from Akaiwashi shrine, Akaminai… Gakuto-san… yes, that’s his name. He’s hardly been memorable for anything but his appearance, though… Honestly, I didn’t like to hang around those who were delinquent style, with bleached blonde hair and piercings, as it reminded me of Mine-san, especially if they were priests or shrine maidens. “Akaiwashi shrine is still piss-poor, even after Pilgrimage.”

“Mind your language, please.” Morita-san warned, and the man shut up, though I caught the bitter undertone in his brown eyes. “This is a formal meeting. Have no fear, we are just addressing some matters of… interest.”

“I… also don’t see why I’m here.” One of the other guests was in Adamant too, and one of Daiyu’s Disciples, which immediately made me angry. If you’ve betrayed me, that’s one thing. Betray Daiyu and I won’t ever forgive you…

The AKB0048 idol, one of the oldest in the band, and before all this, one that the rumours had said was heading to graduation, Sono Ayako-san, spoke with a timid, diffident tone. Even though she was only in her late twenties, for an idol that was pushing it, though with Chirurgery and Cultivation, their careers could be extended greatly.  “I… well…” she stammered, and I kept my own expression calm.

“Yes, I’m not sure why I’m here either…” one of the few young men we had from the Three-Hundred asked.

Kinoshita-san. His family is involved in… ah, renewable energy sources such as solar and windfarms, having moved into that from a previous mining portfolio over the last few years…

I see. Then that makes sense. Unfortunately… From what I remembered, Kinoshita house’s daughter was already married, having graduated Hanafubuki two years ago.

Yes, to Ono house. Chemicals, fertilisers and other such products. And… they have family ties to some of the leadership at Nippon Oil Corp.

At Haru’s silent explanation, I asked her if Ono house was clean, and she shook her head imperceptibly. No, they’re being swept up now. But… their role is more standard industrial espionage, bribery, and moving against you. Whereas here… it’s an internal matter. Thus needing you to handle it. Ono house had no-one suitable for the training school, so you’ve not dealt with them much. But… the nobility, even the Three-Hundred, are a tangled web of politics, family ties and vested interests.

 It seems so. Now then… the potential leaks were in place, so I glanced at Morita-san, who smiled knowingly. Though my gaze then went to the male staffer. He was frowning, eyes darting around as if he’d worked out that something was wrong, though he wasn’t sure what. My Eyes glowed, and… of course. I can see how we missed it.

“If I may…” I raised my free hand, and Morita-san nodded.

“Go right ahead, Akio-san, you are a special advisor here.” she allowed, and so I revealed my findings.

“It’s clever, but… you’re a Chosen, aren’t you? Of Muyalaka.” My Eyes say he’s mostly known as Apasmāra, but for some reason that offends me, and likely would Tan as well. After all, this little bastard seems to be no Māra, powerful and terrible, just a God… of ignorance and forgetfulness. Not inspiring, though… honestly, such negative traits can make for effective Favours.

The man…Ikenoue-san… Haru added helpfully, widened his brown eyes. “I don’t…” he began, and I felt aether stir within him, then he gaped at us as his ability failed.

Fascinating. My mind has cleared and I can hear his thoughts now. He wasn’t trained or dissembling, was he?

No, it was cleverer than that. Basically, anyone who notices he’s a Chosen instantly forgets it. But now… my thoughts went to the vent, where Shaeula, who after rounding up our guests with Arisu-san, had come with her, was pumping her Winds And Waters Of Devotion through the air conditioning system, with a command to speak the truth, and suppress any abilities, though only while in this room, relayed through me silently and inaudibly in a clever manner. Limiting it that way made it easier for the commands to be rationalised and obeyed.

“You’re a Chosen, Ikenoue-san?” Morita-san asked, her eyes narrowing. “Undeclared? I am sure that under the law, all Ministry staff have to declare Chosen status or any other abilities that go beyond mortal. What’s your game here? The penalties are stiff, especially for espionage and treason!”

“I… wasn’t. I’ve worked honestly. Check my work! He was suddenly defensive, and Haru nodded, her eyes glowing with faint blue flames as she exerted all her power of Telepathy.

“I just… I don’t know if I could trust the government. So I thought… from the inside, I could find out what really was going on, what would really happen. Whether we’re all just food for Oshiro-san…” he glowered at me. “…and others the government supports, or we have genuine freedom. My ability… it’s not powerful. Not like what I’ve seen on the news.” he frowned at Eri. “Even you. I saw you. The catgirl…”

“I prefer Bakeneko. Bake, not Baka.” Eri insisted, her ears and tail appearing, which drew the eyes of Hiroto-san, who I remember had found Eri pretty when we first met, though at her black-eyed stare, he merely quipped the look suited her. “But yes, I’m strong. So try anything and I’ll be across the table and snapping your neck before you can blink.”

“I wouldn’t…” he protested, and Eri nodded firmly.

“Good. See that you don’t.”

“There have been no issues with his work.” Haru added. “He’s competent, if quiet. Though…” She rubbed at her temples. “…now I think about it, it was strange. Forgetfulness, huh? It seems simple, yet…”

“It’s useless. It’s not like I can win a fight against anyone but an idiot.” Ikenoue-san grumbled.

“I don’t know about that.” I suggested. “So, you joined for a reason. What are your findings?”

“I… can see that you don’t abuse your power to hunt down the others.” he admitted. “Though matters here are definitely geared to your favour. First mover privilege.” his tone was slightly bitter. “Even so, if I wanted to grab for power… I’ve seen the fatality figures. And I wouldn’t be able to fend off the Church. Though I thought I would be safe if I laid low, with my power…”

“There are always ways to break such abilities.” I shrugged. “So, be honest, have you been passing information to anyone else?” I had expanded my vision, and as we mentioned information a number of our guests showed involuntary micro-expressions and muscle twitches, and Haru’s expression was now severe.

“No, I’ve done my job. I… might have accessed information which was on a need-to-know basis, but I kept it to myself, it was just to ensure my own safety. I worked properly!”

“It’s true.” Haru agreed. “There have been no problems with his probation, or internal evaluations. But… even so, lying on the application is a serious crime, and even if no espionage has taken place, the doubt always remains. Besides…” Haru narrowed her eyes. “…you’re not cut out for this life. We’ll talk afterwards. We can help you… make this right. And both parties can benefit.”

“I… see. I’m sorry… Suzuki-san, Minister Morita-sama…” he apologised. “I… it’s hard to understand, if you aren’t a Chosen.”

“If you haven’t done anything but lie about your talents, and a subsequent investigation agrees, then… we can discuss mitigation.” Morita-san conceded, and as that was concluded, Hazuki-san was suddenly pale, and she turned to her parents, tears in her eyes.

“You… you didn’t? If we’re here…” She swung back to us and got down on her knees in dogeza, going so far as to slam her head into the floor, her Adamant cap falling free, her short hair released. “High Commander Hinata-sama, Akio-sama… I swear I never broke faith. I talked a little, with my parents, I mean, they’re my parents! They were interested in what I did, they wanted me to succeed! But… I kept a diary. Silly, I know. But… it’s been a habit since childhood.” Her words were rapid and passionate. “I’ve always been an energetic girl, one my kouhais look up to, one my senpais find cute. But it’s a lot of pressure. So I always poured out my heart onto the pages. But… nobody would read it but me! It’s… if so, it’s a betrayal!” She was still looking at us, but she asked her parents. “Did… did you do it? And worse, pass on what was within?”

Her parents exchanged troubled glances. Sweat beaded on her father’s brow as he opened his mouth, probably to lie, but… tough luck. Shaeula’s not going to allow that.

“We can’t stop international trade and services.” Hinata’s voice was cold. “And Hazuki and Partners have many ties to both Britain and America. But… this goes beyond anything you can shoulder.”

“It’s… not illegal! You can hardly punish us for sharing our daughter’s ramblings!” her mother, who was still an attractive woman, though her beauty was spoiled by the tension, cried. “What, is it a crime to talk about my daughter’s diary entries now?”

At those words, Hazuki-chan suddenly leapt to her feet. She crossed to our side of the table, before kneeling before us. “I… formally renounce my family! I, Hazuki Kanami, am simply Kanami now.”

“Don’t be such a silly girl…” her father snapped, and he too was handsome, as most of the nobility, even the Three-Hundred were, due to generational wealth and good breeding. “…you? How will you live? Yes, we might have peeked on your private matters, which is unpleasant for you, but…”

“But nothing! If you read it, you know! This isn’t a game, it’s life or death! You wanted me to form ties to Oshiro-sama and the nobility he commands, and yet… yet…” She shot her parents an angry glare, before apologising to us again, putting back on her Adamant cap she had retrieved, straightening her appearance. She took a depth breath, before kneeling before us. “I, Kanami, will live for my sisters and my Lord now… it will be rough, as I’m homeless, but…”

“Hardly.” Hinata disagreed, after glancing at Haru, who nodded, her smile suddenly warm. Hinata took Hazuki-san’s hand, and with a gesture, she channelled a little aether, pulling over a spare chair for her. “There’s room in the estate. Kanami-chan, you understand, don’t you? Oh, and… there’s no escape, Kinoshita-san…” she said to the young man sliding his seat backwards, eyeing the exit. “…but it does make you look awfully suspect. Still, I will not bar your way to hope.” Hinata’s smile was cold, clinical and rather wrathful.

No wonder. She’s pissed off at the security breaches and worse… pissed off at parents who use their daughters like tools. At least her parents, while they wanted to become true nobility, they wanted Hinata happy too… they’d not have betrayed her like that. Kenji-kun certainly wouldn’t have. He loves his grandchildren. And speaking of…

It seemed Hiroto-san had realised what he was in for, as his face was pale. While his mistake was along the lines of… Kanami-san’s… it was more overt, and so some punishment was in order.

As the man froze, Hinata continued to console Kanami-san. “You’ll continue to attend Hanafubuki, with all the privileges thereof. If you need money, we will pay it, and… you will continue to shine as a Marquise. And in time… you will become Brilliant. As your tears are…” Hinata scooped one away with her finger, before Haru urged me to speak.

I was going to. “Don’t worry. While keeping a diary was a bit careless, Hinata can tell you I’ve done worse. As for your family… let’s hear them out, but… once Adamant, always Adamant, right?” I smiled warmly, and she sniffled, nodding, giving me the diamond salute.

“Yes, you’ll want for nothing. Except perhaps your parents.” Hinata insisted. “So, what do you have to say for yourselves?”

“It’s just… diversifying our investments. It makes sense!” her father insisted. “Again, the information was just the ramblings of our daughter anyway, but… some people are interested, and priceless favours for dealing with America can be gained.”

“It’s true. I never detailed much, except for some details about our training. And what I’d been doing that day, how hard it was, though how rewarding too, like sports. It’s a betrayal, but… I don’t think it is anything that can be used against us. and… I’m not saying that to defend them.” Staying true to her word, she seemed to dismiss them as her parents. “…even so, I’m sorry for my carelessness. I’ll accept punishment.”

“I think you’ve suffered enough.” I insisted, after Hinata gave me a small nod. “You made a mistake, but to remove you from your role would put your sisters at risk. Train harder, fight harder, to be a leader who doesn’t let them down. Okay?”

“Right!” she saluted again, smiling tremulously, and it was Morita-san’s turn to speak.

“Now it’s true you can hardly be held to account for sharing your daughter’s gossip. But… there is provision for knowledge deemed essential to the workings of national security. Remember? The Act on the Protection of Specially Designated Secrets. It was passed back in twenty-thirteen. And… if you look at the Ministry legislation…” Her smile was anything but kind, and now Kanami-san’s parents were shaken, and not just them.

Yeah, fear’s spreading. Though… Chiyo-san and Yuuna-san seemed crestfallen, but not from guilt.

“…that’s irrelevant anyway.” Hinata sighed. “The point is, illegal or not, I promised to crush anyone who interfered with Adamant, and Akio’s secrets.” More winces and fearful expressions, and the density of Shaeula’s Winds And Waters in the room was increasing, though only our fellow Chosen had noticed. “You might think you’re safe, with your diversified portfolio, but you’re done in Japan, and Britain will follow suit if we ask… unless…”

“That’s your cue to start cooperating.” Haru insisted. “A full list of who you sold information to, what you got in return, and more…”

“This… I don’t have to be here!” Akaminai-san stood, and I was curious as to why Haru hadn’t picked up anything if he was guilty, only to understand when I saw with my Eyes. Shit, an oversight. But we never could have expected this. Though… he’s finished. When Bell and Teare find out about this.

Elven-hair Charm Of Protection [Item Class: Powerful] [Item Type: Rule]

This braided charm, woven from hair of an Elf, and threaded through an Adder Stone found on her mission beyond the Fae Stone Wards into the contested lands, carries the blessing of its giver, and will shield the mind and will of the bearer from confusion and other mental afflictions, keeping the mind calm on the surface, like the flowing river which washed the Adder Stone for many decades.

“No wonder.” Haru’s eyes narrowed as she picked up my thoughts. Of course there would be Skills, Classes, and even… equipment… to protect the mind. Calm on the surface, huh? So it’s like that… I’m frustrated. I got too cocky.

No, it’s not your fault. We rely too heavily on your gifts. I rely too heavily on you.

I want to be relied on. You know being your strength makes me happy, don’t you? Where else could I find a man as open as you? Most people would hate those who can read their inner thoughts. I thought I’d be a monster, a pariah… but because you allow it, everyone else does too. And… nobody hates me.

Of course they don’t. You’re a kind woman, despite everything. If you were bitter and vengeful, like the Onryō you became, nobody, least of all me, would blame you. But… instead, you inspire me. That you can still be better, push on. You’re one of the reasons as to why I can never lose, never back down!

… … thank you. That means a lot to me. You make me better too. Seeing how far you’ll go to see those you care for smile. All right, no more moping. This sucks, but we can deal. My shoulders ache a lot though. So I’ll be looking forward to that massage tonight. And a bottle of something strong to soothe our cares. We’ll drink like we are trying to wash away a shitty day at work!

It’s a deal!

“I’d heard…” Hinata began gravely. “That you’d been seeing an Elf, one of the Way-Wardens that Prince Aethelathrion sent over to us. Other than Bellaera, Soliteare and Moira, the other handful… lack presence, and quickly realised they had no chance with Akio.” She smiled at me knowingly, and I nodded. Yeah, they were pretty, beautiful, all Elves are, but compared to Moira’s competence and drive, Bell’s cute dedication, and Tear’s playful charms, they were… ordinary. But then…

Hinata said what I was thinking. “It’s something we encourage. After all, we make no distinction between spiritual beings and humans. I like Shaeula just as much as I like any human woman. So… we saw it as a sign you were settling in. But…” her gaze hardened. “…you triggered a few flags.”

“That’s crap!”  Akaminai-san swore. “I’ve had it with the unfairness!” With his delinquent look, he’d probably have intimidated me, back in the day. Ileana seemed nervous at his outburst, but Eri whispered to her that she’d be in no danger.

“You think we guys don’t notice it? Women get special treatment. You’re just a horny dog looking to pick up women to satisfy yourself! Look around us…” he gestured with one hand, and Hinata’s scowl was suddenly very menacing, but he continued his tirade, even as Shaeula spoke in my head, asking me again for a favour, and I let wind element flow invisibly, frequency higher than humans could hear, but that their brains could still perceive.

“…you let her…” he pointed at Kanami-san. “…get away with being a little dumb bitch…” As he talked, he didn’t seem aware he was unhooking his Elven charm. “…and if you’re a woman who’s even slightly pretty and looks like she’ll put out, she gets… hey, what am I doing?” Knuckles white, he tried to resist removing the necklace, but he tossed it to Eri, reaching out for it frantically, but with a wicked smirk, Eri caught it and hissed at him, making him recoil in fear.

Yes, very fascinating. Shaeula’s thought echoed. I can pass my commands through you, if you use wind to carry it. It was worth the trip here. And I do despise traitors and betrayers. And of course you should prioritise females. You are a male, are you not? But even so, males who deserve it are provided for. He is a worthless fool…

I quite agree. And now I can read his thoughts… Haru joined in. …I am most disappointed. Though honestly, there’s a woman here who is just as bad. So we’ll show him equality…

“What the hell?” he grumbled. “Why did I do…”

“It’s over. You’ve been selling secrets since the start. Fortunately you didn’t know much. And it’s not because you’re a man, fool.” Haru castigated him. “Others get the effort spent on them they deserve. And… not every woman takes advantage of what’s offered, either.”

Hinata agreed. “Yushima Chiyo-san… we know there’s a severe information leak from Yushima Tenjin shrine. It’s not you, is it?”

Chiyo-san shook her head, glancing at her granddaughters. Just as her fellow Adamant comrade had, Yuuna-san got on her knees, glaring at her sister. “I wouldn’t! I swore the Oaths! I bowed before the winds and waters…” Her younger cousin Yuuri-san’s face was expressionless. “…but you chose not to join. I didn’t think much of it, why would I? It’s… not for everyone. But… I wanted to bring glory to Yushima Tenjin and the Kami! And… I’ve grown close to everyone. You’re… not as sociable, Yuuri-chan, but… tell me, why?”

“Yes. I would love to know too.” Chiyo-san seemed calm, but her expression was terrible. “Yuuri, why would you do this? Don’t you know what shame you’ve brought to Yushima Tenjin, to Tenjin and Ame-no-Tajikarao…” As she spoke, her voice cracking a little, Yuuri-san seemed unmoved, as if ready to protest, until Chiyo-san’s next words cracked her defences. “…and what of your cousin? Yuuna has joined Adamant, she isn’t just a shrine maiden now, foolish young woman. She’s a soldier. And you have been giving intelligence to the enemy. What if the words you say gets Yuuna killed?”

“I… no, that wouldn’t… happen…” Yuuri bit her lip, glancing at her cousin. “It’s all harmless, honestly! Besides…” her expression shifted, and beside me Haru frowned, disappointed. “It’s not like it’s my fault, is it? When I started, Yuuna-chan wasn’t interested in this sort of thing! How could I have known?”

“Thanks Yuuri… thanks a lot…” Yuuna-san dropped the honorific for her cousin. Getting to her feet, Yuuna-san came over to our side and took a seat by Kanami-san, who patted her shoulder gently, her gaze comforting.

“Why?” Chiyo-san asked again, crushed by the betrayal. “The faith is finally reclaiming its rightful place. Why would you jeopardise this?”

“It’s…” Yuuri-san scanned the room, looking for allies, but nobody would meet her gaze, not even the fuming, bitter Akaminai-san. She then took a deep breath. “Oh come on. We all had friends who died. What of them? Does nobody care? Sure, we might not be Susanoo shrines, but… they were just like us, and they died, and even their families, like Uchida-sama…” She put on a pitiful expression, and I had to agree that what happened to the trainees under my protection was a travesty and a disaster, and while most of the fault was Yamato’s and those who defied my warnings not to enter the Boundary without my presence, some blame was mine too.

Yes, a touching reason. If it wasn’t total shit… Haru’s thoughts were uncharacteristically harsh. I’ve found another shortcoming in my Telepathy. I’ve seldom done more than skim her surface thoughts, and… she’s not feeling any guilt, only annoyance at getting caught, so… she never thinks about what she’s been doing. Even now, she’s annoyed at her cousin for making her look bad, and Chiyo-san for taking Yuuna-chan’s side. How shameless.

I never had her pegged for that sort of girl. Sure, I didn’t know her that well, but during training sessions she was always smiling…

As well she might. She has a hidden bank account and it’s grown rather full. It seems that, rather unlike a shrine maiden’s usual demeanour, she has expensive tastes. And it started before Kyoto…

I don’t know about that. Kana has expensive tastes too… but yeah, Kana would never sell out her friends just for some comfort. She’s proved that when she stood against the yakuza for Marika-chan.

“You can hardly blame Akio for that. I should know.” Eri’s patience was at an end. “I should know, I was there. I was crippled saving those I could. What you’ve done is a betrayal of the highest order!”

“Worse…” Hinata grimaced. “…we should have been more rigorous in using Shaeula’s abilities. Though the ethical concerns… that aside…” Her brown eyes were hard. “…you did sign a contract, Yushima Yuuri, and I promised I’d bury anyone who broke faith. And I’m no liar!”

Chiyo-san’s lined face was twisted into an expression of discomfort. “I know Yuuri was wrong, but… she did it out of sorrow…”

“I’m afraid not.” Haru sighed. “zero-zero-zero-nine. Zero-three-three. One-seven-three…”

“Stop, stop!” Yuuri-san cried out, waving her hands. “Get out my head you bitch! Ah…” Yuuri stumbled back as I drew Tsurugi and slashed. It was perfectly aimed to miss her, but the ground split before her, the slash shockwave buffeting her shrine maiden hakama, and she went pale as a ghost, and gazed at me with horror. Her cousin made to stand, but Hinata shook her head and held her shoulder comfortingly.

“Oh, father, I’m awake, I’m awake. I want juice…” Tsurugi’s Tsukumogami appeared, blinking sleepily, hair a mess. She glowered at Yuuri. “Want me to cut her, father? It won’t be hard…”

“Tempting as it is…” Eri, whose mood was bad, poured her a glass of juice and handed it over, to which Tsurugi gratefully thanked her and began sipping at it. “…she’d only stain your blade with her shitty selfishness.”

“Yes.” I agreed. “Now then, don’t ever talk to Haru like that again, or else I’ll stop playing nice, Yuuri.” She grimaced at me using her first name without any honorifics, like we were close, or in this case, as if all respect I had for her was gone. “Was it worth it?” Haru was sharing what she’d let the Americans know, as well as several other countries who she didn’t know the identities of. It seems once a spy or agent gets you in their pocket, word gets around. How she was discovered in the first place to be fallible was a good question, but Haru would surely get to the bottom of that in due course.

“Worth it?” Yuuri’s expression was scornful. “Money is power, even now. If I have it, as soon as I turn twenty, I can get the hell out of Japan. I want to go to America, live a celebrity lifestyle. I’m pretty enough, and with backing and cash… let idiots like you and Yuuna-chan save the world. It’s all exaggerated anyway. Even the Church attacks you handled. If that’s the best they have… easy.” I noticed the AKB idol, Ayako-san, twitching, and suddenly had an idea of why she was here. I just hope it’s not a betrayal that will hurt Daiyu…

“Ah, but… while you don’t know too much, you did pass on information about the Hikawa twins.” Haru growled. “That’s directly putting them in danger. How very cold for someone who grieved so much when they were hurt, to put them in danger of kidnapping or worse. Fortunately, not just Akio, but everyone, treasures them not just for their abilities, but their diligent, kind nature, and their inherent goodness. So there’s never been a time they’ve been unprotected. Do you know what happens to kidnapped girls, Yuuri?” Haru followed my disdainful convention.

“Wait, please. I… I’ll do anything if you have mercy on her.” Yuuna-san cried out, tears on her face. “I know what she did was a betrayal, what she did could hurt me and those I stand beside. All for money. I still can’t believe it. I did wonder why she was a bit more generous recently…” She shook her head. “Look, she’s young yet, she made a mistake. If… if it helps…” she eyed me, biting at her lip, before bowing low before me. “…I’ll make up for what she’s done wrong. I’ll fight hard, never back down, and… I’ll be your girlfriend if you want. I’ll be your mistress if you don’t think I’m worthy of that. Just… don’t send her to prison, or worse!” The noble self-sacrifice in her eyes pissed me off, and I wasn’t the only one, as Eri and Haru both clicked their tongues, and Hinata’s face was a cold expressionless mask.

Yuuri wasn’t amused though, instead, she was sullen, as if we were wronging her, and Akaminai-san was furious. “Yeah, I knew it. Go easy on her because she’s a fucking girl. You’re a stinking hypocrite. A loser who got lucky, just pushed around by women. Be a fucking ma…” Eri leapt the desk, booting him in the guts hard. I winced, as I heard bones creaking, and he crashed to the ground, panicking the other guests, but Eri snapped at them.

“Sit down. Shut up. And don’t be idiots.” Her Beheading Axe appeared from storage in a puff of purple sparks, and she grounded the butt in-between his legs with a dull impact, narrowly missing his balls, and her nose wrinkled, as did those of us with enhanced senses of smell. What a bastard… fuck, who’s going to break the news to his girlfriend he’s a traitor?

Fortunately most Elves are leisurely in courtship, not everyone is Bellaera or Soliteare, and I think even they do not mind taking it slow, they just fear that if they do, they will fall behind other females… Shaeula’s thoughts soothed me. One set that didn’t was Hyacinth’s though. She was sending no words, but her fury was a palpable wave in my head.

“Yes, I applaud your familial care, Yuuna-chan. But as a Marquise, you should know… betrayal is the one thing we don’t tolerate. As for offering yourself…” Hinata snorted. “…if you want so bad to be Akio’s, best be worthy of him. He’s not interested in punishing you for your cousin’s stupidity.”  She paused, and Morita-san nodded.

“It is true, that Yushima-san is below the age of majority, and would quality as a juvenile, however, that’s not the case for long, as don’t forget, the law lowering the age of adulthood from twenty to eighteen was passed last year, and is due to come into force next year. So by the time it comes to trial… she’ll be in the same position as you, Akaminai-san.”

“The law doesn’t matter.” Hinata grimaced. “What matters is they broke faith, broke our contract. So even if the law decrees that fair… I’ll never let either of you rest peacefully. But in deference to Yuuna-chan, who is a dedicated warrior of Adamant… I won’t go so far as completely ruining your life, Yuuri-chan.” Despite her still using honorifics, her tone was anything but respectful. “But I will have my revenge. When you get out of prison, you’ll do nothing but work minimum wage grunt work to survive. Oh, Haru, how much was her integrity, and the risk to Chiaki-chan, Chiasa-chan, her cousin, her sisters in Adamant, and even this country, worth?”

“She doesn’t remember exactly. But it should be some two hundred million yen.” Haru reported, and Hinata snorted.

“How cheap you are. If you’re going to whore yourself out for our enemies, at least be worth the pay. I bet Akaminai-san made more.”

Haru nodded, and as he squirmed on the ground, he shot us a resentful glare, only to shudder as Eri raised her axe a little.

“Well then, we’ll be reclaiming all of that. And speaking of reclamation… as per my contracts, and also Ministry law, Akio, disconnect them.”

“You can’t! That’s assault! Yuuna-chan, granny Chiyo, help me!” Yuuri wept and begged, but Chiyo-san was heartbroken, and Yuuna-san…

“Help you? You sold out Chiaki-chan and Chiasa-chan…” her hands were trembling. “There’s not a woman in Adaman who wouldn’t beat you senseless for that. I’m… holding back myself.” Tears bloomed in her eyes as I raised a hand, and Yuuri screamed, despite me numbing her pain. I didn’t completely ruin her network, that would be too cold, nor Akaminai-san’s, but I did disconnect their lunar Chakras and make some small adjustments to their root Chakras, which would dramatically limit their aether drawing capabilities, and the added strength they had gained would mostly drain out of them in time, their Statistics lowering, though some benefits would remain. The Chakras they had which were drawing on elemental energies I rerouted too, drying up that flow, so they’d be limited to the barest trickles.

Behind us Kokuren and Byakuren were communicating with their hand signs, but they seemed impressed. Guess they would be. Ninjas hate treachery too…

“That said…” Hinata smirked, looking down on Yuuri, who was crying bitter tears more of frustration than pain. “…while you’re working in a supermarket or waiting tables in a café…” she paused, embarrassed. “I’m not looking down on such work. Every job is important. It’s just… no, I know you get me!” she perked up, before finishing with such perfect maliciousness even I was impressed. “…you’ll have to see your cousin living the life you wanted, no, far more opulent. A few hundred million yen? She won’t bend down for that. And she’ll take care of all her family. Except for you, little black sheep.”

As Chiyo-san opened her mouth to protest, Hinata shook her head. “You don’t have to let her starve. And if she’s ill you can pay her medical fees. But the greatest revenge is seeing those you betrayed have what you wanted. She’ll be the only poor little idiot in the Yushima family. I want her to feel it, cry out, rage, and know she made the wrong choice. Worse… thinking you could put the blame on Akio like that, make it his fault…” Hinata turned to Tsurugi. “…if her blood wouldn’t stink you up, I’d have you chop off an ear as punishment.”

Yuuri shuddered, and once more our noses wrinkled.

“I can’t let you threaten her, Takatsukasa-sama…” Morita-san warned, and Hinata sneered.

“If it was a threat, she’d know. Same goes for you, Akaminai-san. Akaiwashi shrine had best disown you, or not only will it not feature at the Tengokusentou, but I’ll shatter it and move the Kami there to a new home. And you’ll live a life of regret. Your parents too, Kanami-chan. They crossed the line that should never have been breached.”

“I know…” Kanami-san sighed, and her parents seemed as if they wanted to protest, but Eri’s glower kept them silent.

“Hey, do we even get paid? For being in Adamant” Yuuna-san asked, frowning.

“Not specifically. But your needs will be met. We’ll have endless money coming in shortly. The factories are up and running even as we speak. You’re going to be the face of Akio’s Japan, Akio’s world. You have to look and act the part. And that means projecting wealth and power.”

“Hold on…” the idol, Sono Ayako-san, lifted a hand. “…I swear I’ve done nothing! I’ve not leaked any secrets or taken bribes!”

“It’s true.” Haru agreed. “But you’ve still been stupid. Just like…” she glanced at Hiroto-san, who had grown paler with every barbed conversation that passed in the room. Kinoshita-san was scribbling what looked like a confession onto some paper, dropping every scrap of information he could recall, and the female staffer was trying to appear composed, but her trembling hands gave her away.

“I…” he began, and Hinata shut him up with a glower.

“Ladies first, my idiot brother. Ladies first!”

“Yes, I wouldn’t betray my groupmates! We don’t do that!” Ayako-san was sweating. “Nor Matriarch Daiyu! I promise! It’s just…”

“Go on.” Haru was quite gentle in her tone, and at my raised eyebrow her smile deepened. “You got flagged up for suspicious communications, and it just so happened to intersect with someone our little betrayer here…” she nodded at the bitter, red-faced Yuuri. “…was talking to. So tell us all about it. If you’ve genuinely done nothing wrong, we can help.”

“It’s… well, I’ve been in AKB a long time. I’m one of the founding members, in fact. Though… I’ve never been as popular as Rumi-Rumi or some of the others…” she sighed self-deprecatingly. “And I’m getting older. Soon… I’ll be obsolete. And… I’m not much good at Cultivation. I’m not a fast learner like Juu-chan, Keiko-chan, Asuka-chan or Ema-chan. So I was thinking… what would I do afterwards? I’ve… always liked acting. I looked up to Arisugawa-sama when I was younger. I always believed they were lies about her!” she insisted stoutly, and I shared an amused thought with Haru, as doubtless she was still listening in with Shaeula.

“We get a lot of messages though our agency…” she continued. “…but one my manager passed to me was interesting. It was an American casting agency. Apparently, they felt that while I was aging out of being an idol, I could be an actor, like Arisugawa-sama. And that they’d make it happen. Come to think of it…” she frowned. “…they were oddly curious about unnecessary things, but… I didn’t think much of it, and I never talked!” she promised. Haru nodded, and so Hinata seemed relieved.

“Good. If you had, you’d be graduating right now. Out of AKB0048 and out of our favour.”

Akio… Hinata’s voice sounded in our heads, mediated by Haru. …she’s not the brightest woman, but it seems like she’s discreet and loyal. Though if she had left, no doubt they’d have eventually conditioned her to sell us out. She’s fortunate indeed. I think… we can use her. Pretend she wasn’t scooped up in the purge. That way, if we ever need a way to leak false intel…

I’m just happy Daiyu isn’t going to be hurt. But yeah, if you think that best.

“But since you’ve held firm, even if you’ve been scouted by outside agents…” Hinata continued. “…we have to watch you. Oh, and don’t be so negative.” Hinata smiled, offering the carrot, since Ayako-san didn’t need the stick. “Too old? Not popular? That’s negative thinking. And as for talent… Cultivation is hard, but what does Daiyu always say?”

Hinata, Eri, Haru and I all spoke together. “It’s not who walks fastest, but who walks furthest.”

“Anyway, don’t give up. You can reach your dreams. And as for acting… why not both?” My smile was kind, and Ayako-san actually burst into tears. Oops…

Yes, you’re too charming sometimes, Akio. Haru’s tone was amused. But it’s reassuring. And it helps… look at our scribbling idiot…

Wow, harsh… I channelled my sis to retort.

“I confess. I haven’t leaked to foreign powers though, I’m Japanese, I’m from the nobility!” Kinoshita-san insisted. “But… I admit to snooping around instead of training. My family, some others… we needed to know about your batteries, your recycling and more. Our houses rely so heavily on those industries, we… needed to appraise just what damage you’d do to us.”

“A smart noble would have come to me, asking for cooperation, or at least an opportunity to profit short-term.” Hinata shook her head. “But at least you understand. There’s no point trying to hide it from us.” She glanced at Yuuri. “Or lie. Yes, I blame myself for overestimating your intelligence. But…”

Taking the documents with a surge of aether, Hinata glanced at it. “I see. Well, I’d suggest preparing what you need to say to Fujiwara-sama and the others, as your house and Ono house hang in the balance. Yes, you kept the leaks internal, but Nippon Oil Company…” Kokuren’s and Byakuren’s eyes flickered at that name. “…is already in trouble. And their upper echelons should be arriving here shortly for… questioning. No, call it what it is… interrogation.” Hinata turned her attention back to the remaining detainees.

“So, two left…” she mused, and Hiroto-san grimaced.

“Ladies first, you said. I’ll… wait.”

“So be it. Then… I’ll let Morita-san introduce you.” Hinata gazed at the female staffer, and as all our attention, other than Tsurugi, who was slurping juice happily and glaring at the silently weeping, teeth-gnashing Yuuri balefully, shifted to her, she began to sweat and shake.

“She’s Zendana Riho. Thirty years old. Graduated Tokyo University back in twenty-thirteen, after two years postdoctoral for Social Sciences. Career history in various studies on group behaviours, also did some advisory work for various government agencies. Applied for the Ministry post-reveal, and her work has been helpful. Background checks were all fine, and I don’t believe you noticed anything unusual, Suzuki-san?”

“No, I didn’t. But before Kōga village, I wasn’t sure what to look for. But yes…” Haru’s eyes were glowing blue now, giving her a fresh appearance, and I was surprised to see faint hints of red on her pale cheeks. “…now I can see what’s abnormal. Your thoughts are far too… regimented. As though almost fake. It might be nothing, but…”

“It is nothing, Suzuki-san.” Zendana-san retorted. “I’m just always disciplined. I studied Social Science and Behavioural Metrics and have always been ascetic. I don’t drink, or smoke, or consume lowbrow content. I exercise, study, meditate… this is a big mistake. But…” she smiled ingratiatingly. “…having seem these others, I can understand why you are troubled. So I won’t make a claim for workplace harassment.”

Akio, please do spread my command. Shaeula insisted, and I once more released some vibrations using wind energy, at a very high frequency.

“…I’ve done nothing wrong. Yet. I have been gathering intelligence… no, that’s not… huh. Wait… what?” Zendana-san’s words began to be at odds with each other. She tried to clamp shut her mouth, so firmly she gashed open her lips, but she continued to speak, despite her own will. “I… was tasked with… no, what’s happening? Why am I… gathering intelligence for…”

Desperately, she bit her own tongue, teeth sinking in savagely, though whether she did it too hard, or actually intended to commit suicide, I wasn’t sure, but she gagged and gasped, blood filling her mouth and she began to choke, crimson streaming down her lips and chin. Valeska seemed aghast, whereas Ileana’s eyes were shining, blue, green, copper and gold, but she then took a deep breath and placed a hand to her mouth and nose, though her gaze had instinctively gone to my neck, which was a little unnerving.

“Her mind’s in turmoil underneath, but she’s still calm on the surface.” Haru warned, as I vaulted over the table and began Ether Healing. I then noticed that her body was afflicted by a strange chemical, so I purged it from her system, and that made her thrash and roll around, starting to foam at the mouth. Seeing that, the ninja sisters exchanged a meaningful glance, before Byakuren stepped forward.

“It’s not exactly the same…” I was pleased that the sisters were still speaking casually, rather than in archaic ninja-style speech, though it did suit the situation. “…but it seems like a combination of natural herbs and modern pharmaceuticals. We… learned about them before. Sometimes…” she leaned in, and Eri snorted, but didn’t stop her, and Byakuren breathed into my ear a barest whisper, knowing I could hear. “It’s necessary to keep us calm for… unpleasant tasks. But you promised we wouldn’t need it again., we Kunoichi.”

I nodded minutely. Whether I liked the ninjas or not, or forgave their schemes, I’d never use the Kunoichi in that way. I guess our idiot apprentice priest is right, I do have a softer side for women. Even so… the punishments and rewards shall fit the crimes, or the noble deeds. That’s my conviction.

“So yes, she’s suffering withdrawal from the sudden purging. It might not be the blend we use, as we’ve already given up all the ninja operatives here, but… it’s possible to arrive at the same result from a different starting point.”

Heal her up, and I’ll get what we need. Haru insisted. Whatever was messing with her mind is vanishing. Oh… I see. She’s been approached by the Korean government. Fascinating. The drug… it’s as Byakuren estimates. It’s a pharmaceutical cocktail which actively interrupts the unconscious. It’s… a dangerous level of stimulant, which keeps the conscious mind active and controlled at all times, but I can see why it blocked my ability to perceive her deeper thoughts. She’s basically burning hot the whole time. Worse… I suspect it’s addictive, hence the withdrawals. Bastards… wait, hmm, too early to tell, but…

Haru’s thoughts were grim, and as I purged the remnants of drugs within the woman, soothing her temperature and shakes, placing her upon the ground in a position where she wasn’t able to choke or bite her tongue, Hinata grimaced. “It seems we aren’t the only ones with security problems. Though suicide seems a little harsh. Oh… bad move…”

Akaminai-san was edging towards the exit while everyone was distracted, but the door opened, revealing Arisu-san and Shaeula waiting. As they strode in, Shaeula gave him a baleful grin, and with a sour expression, he went back to his seat.

“What did you think you’d achieve? You know you can’t escape from Eri or me, never mind Akio.” Hinata scoffed.

“I’m not going to wait here when I see an opportunity…” he grimaced, and Eri snorted.

“Where would you go? Face your punishment like a man. I hate treacherous men. I always said men other than Akio were cockroaches.”

“A little harsh.” Hinata chuckled. “Though I’m not in a good mood with men, especially inconstant ones…”

“I… don’t dislike Fabina. Honestly, the charm was just… a bonus…” Akaminai-san sighed, and Hinata shook her head.

“Who was saying I’m talking about you?” she snorted, eyeing her brother. “All right then. You…” she narrowed her brown eyes menacingly. “Care to confess, brother? It’ll be better for you…”

“I… haven’t been leaking!” he insisted, and Hinata pinched her nose, as if she had a headache. Brandishing a document, which I recognised as from the ninja village, she slammed it down on the table.

“Oh? Two separate flings of yours, you spilled secrets during pillow talk. I get guys like to boast, but at least have the decency to get a fiancée first! Keep it in the family!”

“Oh… well, men do like to talk…” Hiroto-san glanced around at us for support, and I shook my head.

“Yes, you like it too much. You know… at your university it’s simply crawling with foreign spies and honey traps. Didn’t you think it was odd, mid-year transfer students? Even before that you were a target. Nichibotsu is ripe for espionage. Thanks to the ninjas, at least, you were never ensnared by our potential enemies, or we’d be having a very different conversation. And… they drugged you…”

“Drugged me? Then I’m innocent!” Hiroto-san mopped at his brow, but Hinata shook her head.

“Hardly. It was only an inhibition-loosening drug. Like strong alcohol without the side-effects. There’s no such thing as aphrodisiacs which make you rut like an idiot, Hiroto. It was all your own lusts.”

“Hey, they were pretty, well-spoken and interested. Any man would be taken in.” he countered, a mistake, as the girls glowered at him, and even Ileana seemed unimpressed.

“I’m probably not the one to talk…” I did resist Hotaru-san, though, and didn’t go all the way with Miyu and Michiru, so I have a little room to comment. “…but it’s the fact you talked about things you shouldn’t.”

“It was never anything major. I never talked about the twins, for example. Just… boasting about my sister, you, my brother-in-law, and the other sisters-in-law. Harmless stuff, you have to believe me…”

He’s not lying. And the reports from Kōga village agree. Even so, he’s still been indiscreet. Haru’s words reassured me, and I knew she was transmitting them to Hinata too, as she sighed, slamming her hand on the report again.

“If you did, I’d have you castrated, brother, so you can’t do it again. Now… it’s time you settled down, got engaged, to prevent a repeat of this mess. Any woman in mind?”

“He’s got two or three candidates…” Haru tread his mind, and he flushed, even as she pursed her lips, rather displeased.

“In that case, I’ll be speaking to grandfather, father and mother. Best prepare, brother. Getting you safely married and in hand is for the best…”

Good luck, Hiroto. Maybe if you’re lucky, you can persuade them to share you! Writing my brother-in-law off in my mind, but promising to show him a good time on his Stag Party, as David called the one I was going to end up having before my own marriage, we were about to conclude this part of the trip when Akaminai-san interrupted.

“This is clear favouritism!”

“Yes, that’s right!” Yuuri cried too, snarling. “Just because he’s your brother, Hinata-chan…”

“Shut. Up.” Eri slammed her axe to the ground, the sound deafening, and Shaeula agreed.

“Yes, be-be silent. Have you not-not a functioning mind? Hiroto was careless, but did not-not disclose key information to our enemies, and did not-not sell us out for mere money.” At her amber glare the two flushed, and then Shaeula drove the verbal knife in. “Nor did he spit-spit upon his family like you did, Yuuri. He was proud. You were prepared to sell out your family for trinkets.” She winked at Hinata. “Instead, Yuuna shall be most-most rewarded, so long as she never falters. Kanami too.” The girls saluted Shaeula with the diamond, though both of them were still very upset at the betrayal of their cousin and parents respectively. “Now, get-get the hell out. We will finish this later.”

At that, the JSDF soldiers took away those who needed further questioning. Chiyo-san shot Yuuna-san a pleading look, before she nodded slowly, and then she hurried off after her other granddaughter, her back small and hunched, her usual boisterousness seeming frail. Ikenoue-san also remained, as Shaeula had neutralised his ability with her winds and waters, preventing him from using them on a subconscious level, and Haru had found his intentions, while unlawful, seemed to be what he said, purely self-preservation.

“That was… quite the unpleasant mess. I thank you for your help rooting out problems.” Morita-san offered. Tsurugi nestled on my nap, leaning into my chest, and Valeska smiled at the sight, amused. “We will still need your assistance, Undersecretary, and also with those coming later, but for now we have an idea of what is going on.”

“That’s fine.” Haru agreed. “But tonight, absolutely no overtime. I’ve got a date.”

“Oh? That’s surprising.” Morita-san raised an eyebrow. “Considering…”

“Is it?” Haru smiled at me. “If you say so, Minister.”

“Why so cold? Did I offend you? Anyway, we have our Romanian visitors still to assess, and then…” Morita-san’s face changed expression. “…the contracts have been signed, and all the psychological tests and assessments completed. They have testified they are not coerced, but simply want rid of their burdens, so… Akio-san, can you handle it?”

I see. It’s time to eat the bitter fruit from America. I don’t feel good about it, but… just like buying Nyx’s Favour for Eri, this way… hopefully everyone wins. It’s far from pleasant though. Nodding, I picked up Tsurugi into my arms and stood. “Yeah, I can’t do overtime either. I promised Haru and the others we’d relax tonight, after our hard Pilgrimage and this shitty day… let’s go.”