On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

Side One Hundred And Forty-Seven – Takatsukasa (Fukumoto) Hinata *Revised version

Hinata held in a smile as she looked around the meeting hall in the Boundary. She still found everything very surprising, even after several months. Though these last few months have seemed to stretch into years, so many things have happened. Fun things, amazing things. And there’s still more to come… Her face flushed as she considered the further path she had to take, but as she was chairing this special meeting, for which many members had been brought back after they had left for the evening, she forced herself to stillness. As a businesswoman and Akio’s wife, I can’t show weakness. And as my mother says, as a woman, I have to remain strong. I have a lot of rivals. Friendly rivals, sisters… but even so, I’m like all the others. I want to be number one!

The room was packed with faces both familiar and not. There were shrine maidens, such as the twins, the granddaughters of Chiyo-san and more, the rather cute but idiotic Keomi-chan sitting with the taciturn and withdrawn Hotene-san. She had recovered from her physical wounds, but the mental ones were still a burden on her. Though being with the ever-bright Keomi-chan was helping her, and Haru-san used her Mind Healing Light when she was free.

From the nobility, the selection was lacking. Miyu and her bodyguard was there of course, but it was too soon for Hinata’s plans to bear fruit yet. Slow and steady wins the race. Taking Takatsukasa house gave me legitimacy, but if I step too fast or too greedily Fujiwara-sama and Kira-sama will slap me down. As for grandfather Itsuki, he can’t stop me anymore… There were two faces here that were new though, one of them wasn’t invited but had come anyway. The newcomers. The heirs to Tengokusentou, the most prestigious and luxurious traditional hotel and hot springs among the nobility. Every major milestone, births, deaths, marriages… for the last several hundred years, the nobility has seen them all there… In fact, Akio’s marriage ceremony here on Earth will almost certainly have to be carried out there… or it would have…

The family, the Shiraishi house, were a family under the auspices of Fujiwara-sama, and were true nobility, even if they were low amongst the Fifty-Seven. Fifty-Eight, now. No, it’ll be Fifty-Seven again soon, the idiots… At school, the two of them were popular, the oldest, Shiraishi Nozomi, always being friendly and cheerful. She’s tall and has a great figure too. But now… She had been crying again, and her younger sister, a junior that even Hinata herself had looked on with fondness, being as she was cute and full of energy, always fun to talk to, was trying to comfort her, despite being a number of years younger than her big sister. Shiraishi Arisa. But it’s too late for tears, and merely soothing them away achieves nothing. I don’t think they understood why they were the noble daughters chosen by Fujiwara-sama for Chirurgery, when this batch was mostly sons and brothers…

In addition to that, there was one of the Black Wolf Company there. It was a difficult choice, Hinata definitely approved of Akio putting them to use, and with Shaeula’s winds, the risk of betrayal, while not non-existent, was slight. But this one was talented, and Hinata had made sure to scout her. She was South American, pretty, and had taken to wielding elements faster than almost anyone else. The strange girl Suzu-san was here too, though again, like Miyu, she already was a Vassal, so wasn’t a part of this, but as she watched the proceedings curiously, shading herself with her black parasol, sucking on a lollipop, twirling her immaculately styled hair, Hinata sighed. She’s trouble. But as a Vassal she can be kept in line. Besides, she idolises Shiro…

Lastly there were the non-humans. Shaeula’s maids were here, as well as a number of other weaselkin, and a female Kamaitachi, who was one of the four granted to Shaeula by her mother. There were ratkin, goblins, and the elf Soliteare, as well as the three female Way-Wardens who hung around with her often. There were even a small number of stranger Fae, including some rather small sprites that were flying about, curious. She turned, and met Shaeula’s gaze, who merely smiled back brightly. How does that even work? No matter, if Shaeula’s invited them, they’re what we need…

Taking a deep breath, Hinata felt the weight of pressure on her, only to find Kazumi’s hand in hers. Turning, Kazumi smiled at her, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. “It’ll be fine.” she said warmly. “You’ve come so far. And your journey is just beginning. At first I was wary of him, of your choices, but…” she shook her head. “…now I want to see just how far you can go.”

“We can go.” Hinata corrected, but the words steadied her trembling, and she took one final breath, before looking out over the fellow brides-to-be of Akio who were present. No Hyacinth, though she gives this venture her wholehearted blessing. She’s still keeping an eye on Ginneka. The cat… ugh, I’m torn. She’s important, but I don’t want her in this. Fortunately she’ll be under a Throne so we can get around it that way…

Shaeula, who had interrupted her business at the Spring, gave a brisk nod. Shiro was here too, and had offered a lot of input, most of which was surprisingly insightful. She was the one who… no, no getting distracted. “So, I’ve gathered you all here today, because it’s time. Time to start advancing our plans, our cause. The world is changing. And we have to seize the opportunities that change brings.” Her tension relaxed, as she was in her element, this was simply a business transaction, a mutual win-win, profit for all, though the scale was far beyond her imagination of only a few months ago. This is the first step. When the foundation is solid, then we expand, and…

“The world is in danger. Kyoto proved it, London proved it. Some would say the Spring of Clear Reflections proved it too, not that I’d know.” Shaeula inclined her head in agreement at that, and her maids looked down, expressions bitter. “The world has to belong to someone. And I say it needs to be ours. Only one can lead, one can be an Astral Emperor…” she noticed Shiro’s eyes turning red at that, her hair darkening. Sorry Taṇhā, but it’s not going to be you. And I think you know it. But there’ll be benefits for you nonetheless. “…and that will be Akio. Already he’s wrought triumphs in this world and our own, and there is more to come. But he can’t do it alone. I don’t want him to do it alone. So… you’ve all been gathered. We’ve…”

“By we she means us. Hyacinth too of course, and Motoko and Natsumi.” Shiro broke in. “We’re always watching. We have to, we don’t want any of those who break trust around us.”

“Yes.” Shaeula agreed. “One thing we value above-above all is the keeping of given word, and faithful service. So be proud. You have-have been chosen to be a part of this. There are many who would wish-wish it, yet you were called.”

“A part of what, if I may ask?” the South American, Luciana, said carefully, after hearing the translation being provided for her. “I am preocupada, rather concerned. I seem to be the only one of the Black Wolf Company invited. Moreover, I see only women, I believe? Though it is sometimes complicado to tell, no?” she eyed some of the Fae.

“For this, most are useless.” Shaeula said pointedly. “But have no-no fear. Are we not-not friends? Our first meeting was rather entertaining, and despite our differences, you agreed to serve us.”

Luciana shook her head. “Yes, and I understand after this Chirurgery, this training, I can go back never, nunca. But I have fears…”

“And we will allay them.” Hinata promised. “Everyone here has a choice. Those who do not agree, well, Shaeula will bind you to secrecy…” she nodded, so Hinata continued. “…but that is all. You can continue with your lives, working under Akio in whatever capacity you already do if you so choose. We will understand, though perhaps you may regret your choice in time. Those who do agree… there is a price, of course. But in exchange, your dreams will come true, and you will help Akio make his dreams come true, seize this world, no, not just this one, but perhaps more… your family, friends, loved ones will thank you for your choice, your bravery. It’ll be hard, some of us might pay an ultimate price, but against what we face… Shiro, if you would?”

The older woman, who Hinata still couldn’t believe was real, her beauty so stunning as to be almost artificial, nodded. Her eyes blazed crimson, and her hair burned red, flames scattering. Some who saw it for the first time were surprised, but a lot of people here had seen such. The annoying thing is that set the older Shiraishi off crying again. For a noble she is failing. For a girl… I can’t say I don’t understand.

“I am Taṇhā, the Thirsty.” she said imperiously, pride radiating from her with an intensity hot enough to burn. She licked Shiro’s lips, which were suddenly dry and cracked, before addressing the gathered crowd. “And I should not be here. I am an aberration, a chance event. One of many this world faces.” At that a buzz went around the room. Taṇhā silenced them with an imperious toss of her head, flaming hair dancing. “How it happened is of no relevance. Suffice to say, I saw a chance, an unusual one, and strove to put myself at an advantage. But the wheel of Saṃsāra is not one even the Gods can predict, my father neither. In the end I ended up here, as one of you. But heed my words… this world is unusual indeed, and in such differences lie both gruesome danger and shining opportunity.”

Everyone listened carefully as she continued. “An ordinary world, the Boundary will gradually crumble, over a period of years, decades. Within a century, the world will be fully exposed, and usually then outside forces intervene and take it for themselves, or destroy it. Few indeed are worlds that succeed in finding their own ruler, Astral Emperor, who can protect and nurture it. And those that do pay a heavy price. For even as the Boundary is cracking, invaders come, disasters strike. The dead outnumber the living, countries burn, species perish…”

Many of the listeners had some understanding of it, but some of the younger guests such as the twins looked rather frightened, pale-skinned and breathing fast. The sounds of sobbing could be heard, and Hinata clenched her fist, her own heart aching. It’s scary yes. I want to live a good, happy life. But fortunately we have hope… but first, the despair…

“Matters here are far from that kind.” Taṇhā said, eliciting more gasps. “The creature that was behind the Kyoto battles was likewise an outsider. A dreadful one. If I was to use my full strength, I am confident I might win, but to do so would be to blow away the fragile Boundary surrounding this planet. Because the Boundary… is already fraying, mere months in. Too many meddling hands… the Ninth Heaven, me, this vile creature…”

“If I may ask, how will we survive then?” Soliteare got to the point, her eyes narrowed. “We are hardly united. Though efforts are being made to unite the Seelie Court, and even forge ties with the Night Parade…” the Kamaitachi nodded at that.

“Fortunately, another meddler bestowed a gift upon this one’s man, this Akio.” She gestured to Shiro, the owner of their shared body here. “He is still weak, pathetically so compared to what is coming, but his growth has been… swift.” She allowed.

“Damn right he has been.” Shiro suddenly said, speaking over Taṇhā, her expression changing, and that elicited some relieved laughter from the watching group. “This is Aki we’re talking about. Combine his need to save damsels in distress with some pro-gamer grinding and he gets results. That’s not all though, is it?” She looked at Shaeula, who took over. Yes, Shaeula’s the one who demonstrates it best, the point we are making, what we want…

“Those here of the Fae know this. I was rather-rather pathetic as a child. Now, I do not-not claim it was all entirely my fault.” Her maids looked ashamed at that. “But it was sadly true. Now, ever since my fateful meeting with Akio, where we have striven to fight together and grow-grow together, now my strength has blossomed!” She radiated power, her League, as Akio and she called it, hitting everyone like a wave. Hinata staggered a little, held in place by Kazumi, and she shot her a grateful smile. I’m so jealous. I’m… I’m the weakest out of everyone. I know my role isn’t to fight, I do business, look after Akio’s interests, but… I need strength too. And I’ll get it…

“We understand, princess! Calm down, not everyone can take it.” Soliteare warned, and Shaeula frowned, and the sense of oppression dissipated.

“I think I have proved-proved my point.” Shaeula grinned. “We triumphed in Kyoto, though there were sad-sad losses, and it was far-far from easy. London too, we defeated a powerful foe. The ruler of this world, the Astral Emperor…” her lips curled, and Hinata knew Shaeula wasn’t keen on the term. “…must be the strongest, yes. For without an absolute power to face other powers, we will be swept-swept aside like insects, stomped on by the strong as-as they will it. However…” her piercing amber eyes seemed to glow as she looked at them all. “… even one strong leader alone is not-not enough. No, he must have adherents, a legion of them, as strong-strong as they can be. For one-one alone can not-not be everywhere, save everyone, But a legion, a force…” her smile was brilliant. “…they can stand together, and do what Akio can not-not. And in exchange, for we are making an agreement here… the rewards will be-be remarkable.”

“Is this why we have been called here?” Miyu asked, and Shaeula nodded.

“There is no-no need for your participation, Miyu. You are already in a privileged position, as Akio’s Vassal. To go further requires further-further sacrifice and restrictions. Though some might-might say the rewards are sweet indeed.”

“I’ll take over again.” Hinata said, excitement building. Here it comes. The time is now. Will some accept and join us, or will we be left looking like idiots as everyone backs out? “Yes, you all work with Akio in some capacity, or…” she looked at the Shiraishi’s, barely able to hold in an expression of displeasure. “…have been given his largesse. Some of you did it for your own reasons, others at the behest of others. I blame nobody for that. We all have our reasons. Mine were selfish at first. But…” she had a stack of papers beside her, and there were mirrors of them in the Material too, waiting for signatures for those that were present in that world too. “…this offer gives you a chance. To be truly a part of something special, that matters. An organisation…” she gestured, and Taṇhā stepped up, flipping over a prepared whiteboard. It’s amazing what Ixitt can create at short notice. I can hardly wait until we start the factory in the Material…

“Adamant!” Hinata declared boldly, tapping the header on the board, below which were some charts, diagrams and more. “Adamant.” She repeated happily. “An indestructible mineral, and a mythical one too. I am told it does exist, not that we have any yet. But the name has other meanings too. Akio is half-British, so a word in English seemed appropriate. But it also means determined and unbreakable. Which is what we will need to be, if we wish to save the world, and stand at Akio’s side forever.”

“It’s my name we chose.” Shiro was back in control of her body, puffing out her chest proudly. “You wanted Akatsuki, right Hinata? It’s cool, but generally a villain name. Besides, Aki has more in common with the moon than the sun.” she looked at Shaeula, who nodded. “I had expected Shaeula to go with something moon related, but instead… Faerie Garden? Shit, Aki’s not delusional, and you watch too much anime. I never thought I’d say that to someone else…”

Hyacinth’s suggestion was too descriptive, it would have been off-putting. Motoko and Natsumi had no interest in naming it, and Daiyu felt she was too new to contribute. Asha’s idea wasn’t bad, Tree of Wisdom kind of works, but… Kana and Eri weren’t consulted. Hinata felt a little bad about that, but she knew Kana wouldn’t mind. Eri… she’ll be mad at first, she’s quite an angry girl, but when she calms down, she’ll throw her support behind it, she can’t help herself if it’s for Akio…

“So, is this some kind of secret organisation?” Keomi-chan said, eyes bright. “Awesome, but… aren’t we already doing that? I’m confused…”

“It doesn’t take much to confuse you, does it?” one of the granddaughters of Chiyo-san said, amused, as they had spent a decent amount of time training together. “If I had to guess, this seems a separate group, with the goal of being under Akio’s command, achieving his aims? Aside from the politics of the shrines and Japan?”

“That’s right.” Hinata agreed. “Adamant is the secret wing we shall cultivate, an organisation dedicated to one thing only. Making sure Akio is the Astral Emperor for Earth, and that we save Earth and those we care about. The requirements are strict, so I understand if some of you can’t agree.” She tapped her stack of contracts. “… but in return, those of you who do sign will be part of something greater, heroes all. But unlike heroes, we don’t expect you to work for free, even though the cause is just!” No matter how noble a person, self-interest is important. Akio understands that. He makes sure to look after his employees, friends and family, paying them well, making life comfortable and as fun as it can be. That’ll be important, because when dark times like Kyoto hit, that’ll stop people breaking… protecting the good times, hope for even better times… that’s the strongest motivator of all. And I will take his example to heart!

“Akio and we are of one mind. We want to protect all we can!” Hinata declared boldly. “But Kyoto and London showed it’s not possible to protect all things equally. It will only get worse, won’t it?” she looked at Taṇhā, who agreed.

“Yes, when the Boundary cracks enough for greater threats to come through, what you have endured will seem as a mere breeze compared to the typhoon of destruction. Ordinarily, this world would be doomed to ruin, but in the abnormal situations and tribulations, there are also positive steps for hope.” She turned, her ruby eyes narrowing, looking towards the direction of the great Rhyming Tree, though it wasn’t visible inside. “A Territory of the fourth Rank is barely enough to defend against some threats. A fifth Rank one is safer… I would have believed it impossible to bring a Territory to the fourth Rank so swiftly, but this world is far from ordinary, and I do admit he is able to put his skills and the skills of others to some surprising uses I would not have entirely considered.”

“That’s my Aki!” Shiro spoke over her again. “Though I do have to thank you, Tan. You gave him some hints, and it realty helped.”

“I merely did what I could, since leaving empty-handed puts all my efforts to waste.”

“Look at you, going all tsundere on me. Want to join Adamant, Tan?”

“With those conditions? You think me foolish, princess? Though it would be you that pays the price of that…”

They went back and forth, bickering, eyes flashing from red to black and back again, amusing the onlookers. Hinata clapped her hands after a while and Shiro apologised, before Hinata thanked Taṇhā. “Your information is helpful. But…” she then addressed everyone. “You see the problem? If we do things the normal way, let everyone compete for the position, then we’ll all perish, or if we don’t, only a handful will be left on a devastated world. I don’t know about you, but I refuse to live that way!” Hinata said proudly. “Be you Japanese, foreign, or even a Fae or a Yōkai, we all live in this world, we all want a good life, for our friends and family to be safe. For that… we need to rally behind someone. And that someone is Akio. To that end, we’ve planned it out. Japan first, Akio needs to rule it. But to do so, it requires several things. First, the nobility needs to fall in line…” she looked at the two sisters of Shiraishi house. “…so you have an opportunity. One few others have. We don’t simply want to take from you, in exchange we will always support you and your happiness.”

The older sister kept crying, barely listening, while the younger sister glared at Hinata. How rude. Not that I don’t sympathise a little, but if they are stupid enough to slap away my hand when I’m offering them a lifeline, they deserve what they would otherwise get. “We also need political power, and the support of the people. That… we’re working on.”

“Oh, I get it.” Suzu-san giggled, looking at Shiro. “Arisu-chan is going to appear in public again, then there’s the charity concert. I can hardly wait to show off my songs on stage…” she giggled again, a touch vapidly. “Plus the news constantly talking about the heroes of Britain. Clever, I’d expect no less from you, boss!”

“It’s not all my idea.” Shiro said. “But I’ll take your thanks, I guess?”

“The Seelie Court, the Hyakki Yagyō… all shall-shall be under our control.” Shaeula boasted. “The kami of the shrines as well-well. Britain too. Akio has a clear route to power there-there. From that foundation, we shall see off the red and white dragons, this vile toad and any-any other threat that we face. So you have-have a choice. You are already working with us, Akio will not-not see you cheated, but…” she looked at Hinata meaningfully.

“…but being a part of Adamant offers benefits you’ll never find elsewhere. When disaster strikes, it’ll be you and your families, friends and homes we prioritise defending. We will help each other, and support our Astral Emperor.” She giggled happily. “I think it’s an exciting offer. Your strength will grow, perhaps beyond even what others who work with Akio can expect, and your futures will be bright and shining, walking hand in hand with Adamant.”

“Excuse me!” “We have a question!” the twins said together, and Hinata nodded.

“Go ahead.” The twins can’t get away. They are essential in the empowering of others.

“We are flattered…” “We are definitely honoured to be chosen.” They said together. “We will of course serve Akio-sama in whatever capacity he requires.” “But what of Ren-sama? Why is he not included?”

“A great question. You’ve probably noticed everyone here is a woman.” Female, anyway. Some of the Fae aren’t very feminine. “That’s because Adamant is an organisation for women. Your brother, he won’t escape our clutches, have no fear. He’s rather talented. But he’ll have a different role. Important nonetheless, but different. Kazumi, if you would?”

Her bodyguard nodded, and gathering the contracts, she began to hand them out. As people started reading them, there were a lot of surprised murmurs. It was then that the youngest Shiraishi, Arisa-san, spoke up, horrified, waving the contract. “What is this? Are you mad?”

Hinata narrowed her eyes. “Careful how you speak to me, Arisa-san. Don’t forget I’m Takatsukasa Hinata!” At those words, the girl faltered, before clearly gathering her courage and going on the offensive.

“I don’t care!” she insisted. “Even if it was Fujiwara-sama there, or Ichijou-sama, I would never accept this! The Three Grandfathers, they are already so cruel, to abandon Shiraishi house like they have, but this? It’s an insult! To follow the orders of a man not our husband or father…”

“Arisa, you can’t speak to Hinata-sama like that…” Nozomi-san said, her face pale and her eyes red from crying.

“I can and I will! Sister, we only accepted the orders from Fujiwara-sama and endured that painful torment so that we could appeal to him that we aren’t at fault…”

“You aren‘t at fault?” Hinata said, surprised. “Perhaps not, but your family… don’t you know what you’ve done?” At her words, the older girl burst into tears again. Her sister was torn between comforting her and retorting to Hinata’s words. In the end, she chose to strike back.

“It isn’t our fault! You think we don’t love the Tengokusentou? Our family has always been in charge of it!”

“So why did you let it fall into the hands of foreign investors who simply wish to tear it down? To say nothing of the fact that a number of your more profitable hotels and ryokan have been given over to others?” Hinata pressed. “Fujiwara-sama and Kira-sama are very angry. Grandfather Itsuki too. And they are not alone…” At her words, the two of them in front of her shrunk in on themselves, the oldest weeping audibly, the youngest red-faced and furious. “I’ve spoken to Tsumura-sama, the head of Tsumura house. He too is angry. What foolishness.” They didn’t even get a good deal for it. Most of the nobility are terrible at business. I hate that…

“Fujiwara-sama has offered to pay the foreign investment group a significant sum, guaranteeing them an eye-watering profit, if they only sell it to him. But instead, they reject it and plan to tear it down, replacing it with a soulless high-rise hotel that will surely make them far less profit. Some would think their aim is simply a petty act of harassment, or an insult to Japan and the nobility.”

“Father wanted to break away from the past, is that so wrong?” Arisa-san managed after a while, realising her statement was at odds with her declaration of love for their charge previously.

“I don’t think change is wrong at all. The nobility needs to change, and we’ve already started working towards that. After all, I’m here, we have Miyu in our corner, and now… you pair.” Her expression was bright-eyed as she thought over the ramifications. “I’ve spoken to grandfather about it, and he says it’s obvious what Fujiwara-sama and Kira-sama are doing. Your family has to be punished for your foolishness, and it needs to be a lesson to the other families who might chafe under the leash of the Three Grandfathers.”

“It isn’t fair! Why must we suffer because… oh, don’t cry sister, it’ll be all right.” Arisa-san tried to comfort Nozomi-san. Shiro and Shaeula looked ready to intervene, but Hinata waved them away, asking with her eyes to let her handle it.

“Because that’s the way of the nobility. We have many privileges, but just as many restrictions, especially us daughters. I don’t like it, and I want to change it… and here you are. Nozomi-san…” she addressed the frail older girl. “…tears won’t help anything. Isn’t it shameful? The two of you have been travelling around the nobility, even the Three-Hundred, begging for handouts to clear the stupid debts you ended up with after selling so many assets. I’m almost impressed, how can you owe money selling away profitable enterprises? No, don’t answer that…” she raised a hand to forestall Arisa-san. “…I know the answer. You do too. So, how does it feel?”

“Humiliating!” Arisa-san snapped, not caring that Hinata was older. Perhaps she hasn’t internalised the fact I’m a Takatsukasa now. If she spoke to Sakura in that way… “But I have to protect my sister, and… help father.”

“Hence why you are here. Your punishment is also a chance. Both for you, and for us.” I don’t like the way they are being forced to share in the shame of their house, but I’ll use them, certainly. It’d be stupid to turn down this opportunity. But… I’m not so hard-hearted. I won’t abuse them shamelessly… “If you join Adamant, Nozomi-san, then you’ll be one of us. And we have ways of helping that mere money doesn’t. Grandfather says Fujiwara-sama has blocked the demolition of the Tengokusentou as long as he can by dealing with construction firms, and putting political pressure on legislators. Once deconstruction starts, it’ll be too late. The building is irreplaceable to the nobility, and without it, all Shiraishi house can claim to be is simply a once slightly rich family now on the decline, nothing noble.” As the two girls shuddered, she pressed on. “But if we can’t buy it with money, maybe we can purchase it with something else, something few others can offer. But of course… then it would be ours. So from Shiraishi house, we’d need reciprocation…” Miyu is too high-profile, any action from her at Hanafubuki is going to go over the heads of the lesser nobility there. But the Shiraishi sisters… they might be just right to start my scheme…

“I can’t sign this!” Arisa-san said, scandalised, waving the contract again. “To… to agree to… no, it’s madness. I’m too young, and besides…” words failed her, and she perked up. “My sister has a fiancé already! Takehisa-sama loves her!”

“Hinata did not-not ask you to come, only your sister.” Shaeula said suddenly, and Arisa-san froze, before snapping back.

“I could hardly let my sister come alone, she needs me to support her. She’s… not at her strongest.”

“I see. But yet here you are, and I do not-not see why you would not-not sign the contract?” Shaeula seemed genuinely confused.

“But… we have to follow the orders of a man… he’s not even a noble. I’m not an idiot, at Hanafubuki they teach us men, especially those who aren’t nobles, are all wolves. No doubt he will order us to do all sorts of immoral, shameful things!” she cried out. “It’s obvious. What a disgrace it would be to…”

“A shame?” Shaeula’s confusion deepened. “I would say it was a great-great boon. But I think you have little to fear. You are far-far too young to catch his eye, and rather rude. Akio likes charming, kind females.”

“But…” she began, and Hinata cut her off.

“Enough, Arisa-san. You are being gravely insulting, calling our fiancé such. If you don’t like it, then Shaeula can bind you to keep your silence and you can be excused. We are offering a choice, a fair trade, a deal that in exchange for loyal service, many doors can be unlocked for you, many issues that plague you swept aside by the might of Akio and Adamant. But your sister, this is a chance for her, maybe a final chance… Nozomi-san, I know you’ve seen the evidence. Takehisa-san and his family were behind the foreign investors. They wanted to swallow up Shiraishi house, and likely have greater schemes in mind. Your engagement is a farce…”

“No, but… I have seen it, and…” Nozomi-san said in-between sobbing. “… it’s compelling, but… Takehisa-sama has always been kind to me. He wouldn’t…”

“Don’t believe the comforting lies.” Shiro joined the conversation, offering her a handkerchief, which Nozomi-san took and wiped at her weeping eyes and running nose. “I don’t know this guy, but shit, if Hinata here is saying it, she’s got good reason. Besides…” she looked at Arisa-san triumphantly. “… this little gremlin here doesn’t even believe her own words. She calls him Takehisa-sama and says that he loves her sister, but… your eyes say you don’t entirely believe it.”

“I do… but… it all seems too neat.” Arisa-san sighed, showing she may be fiery, but hardly stupid. “Even so, my sister will be disgraced, and she holds fondness for him in her heart. I can’t let her be part of some shady…”

“Wait.” Nozomi-san said, stopping her sister. “Arisa, I’m grateful you always defend me. But I should be defending you. I’m pathetic.” she said solemnly. As her sister protested, she looked at Hinata. “I am sorry, Hinata-sama. My sister forgot you are of Takatsukasa house and way above us.” She then apologised to Miyu too, who nodded, a bit embarrassed. “I do… did care for Takehisa-sama, but it’s true, he introduced the firm to my father, and he hinted we should go around the nobility, lowering ourselves, to beg for aid… I see now… that’s not the act of someone who cares for me. My father must have been blind. I can’t just give up though… Shiraishi house is finished, but I have my pride. I’ll be unmarriageable after this, my engagement broken, our family outcast. Even with that, signing this…”

“Solves all your problems.” Hinata said firmly. “You may not see it now, but I do. You are a newcomer, Nozomi-san, you don’t understand just how far we’ve come in a few short months, what we can offer you in return for your loyalty. In exchange… you abide by all the rules started here, and study hard. And you help me with my project. I do feel you are being treated unfairly. If you were a son, and it was your fiancée who betrayed you, sympathy would be with you… it’s shit.” Hinata cursed, something she rarely did. “That’s why I want to change that, free everyone under the nobility. But not destroy the nobility. No, I’ll take it all. And all of you who suffer too.” Her voice was persuasive, and Nozomi-san was almost hypnotised by her words. I feel bad, I’m using her grief and despair against her, but… as long as she smiles in the end, does it matter? Akio never mistreats his allies…  “You can be the last daughter who suffers, Nozomi-san. Honour restored, everyone looking up to you for what they think is a sacrifice. But it isn’t. No, it’s an opportunity.”

“Do you want me to sign too?” Kazumi said from beside her teasingly, and Hinata turned, surprised.

“You would? But…” Hinata asked, puzzled. “Don’t you worry Akio will sink his claws into you too? He could, by the contract.”

“I would have, before. I was very wary of him and his intentions when we first met.” She confessed. “I wanted to keep you safe from him. But now you shine brightly like the sun, and I’ve seen while he is flirtatious and loves too freely, he isn’t one to make a move on others for no reason.” She addressed the crowd. “I know why they put this clause in the contract, and it isn’t what some of you are thinking.” She then looked at Shaeula, and corrected herself. “No, she’s hoping for it. Akio may be easy to understand, but her, I don’t get. Basically, it’s a loyalty guarantee. Because…” she took a deep breath. “…take up the mantle of Adamant, and it won’t just be a little training, some benefits, but a comprehensive overhaul of your entire self, right?”

“That’s correct.” Hinata agreed, nodding to Shiro.

“Look at it this way. Aki does want everyone to get stronger, and we are all striving towards that goal, but as time goes on, what can be spared gets spread thinner. Demand outstrips supply. But… Adamant is the elite. Best training, best opportunities, best equipment. In exchange, all we ask is your unwavering loyalty to Akio and to Adamant. That sounds a lot… and it is.” She agreed. “But when you think about it… it’s totally worth it. If you are sick or injured, or your family or even close friends fall ill, then they’ll be prioritised for healing. If an invasion happens and we can only save so many, those you cherish will be our first priority. If you have problems, like some dumbass fiancé who’s stolen all your treasures…” Nozomi-san shivered at that. “…we’ll move heaven and earth to get your stuff back and punish the bastard. But such effort on our part can only be given to so many. Hence… we can’t have split loyalties. There’s too much at stake, we only want the best, the brightest, those most loyal. It really is an honour, and you should feel good we scouted you all.”

After having it translated for her, Luciana spoke up again. “I see. In a way, it is similar to the mercenary credo. Brothers and sisters of the crew over all, even familia. But it is stricter. I… I am no blushing maiden. Nor am I a puta, prostituta. I understand, many a foolish man has betrayed his country or his Company for a pretty face and opened legs. Or a muchacha for a handsome man. And your secrets here are great. But… once in, is there provision for withdrawal?”

She asked the question everyone was thinking, and Hinata nodded. “Keep reading. Clause seventeen. Retirement from Adamant. There may be a number of reasons you wish to leave, as detailed in appendix two. Buit it won’t be through injury. Unlike the military, we can patch up your wounds, heal your mind, soothe your soul. If you leave due to feeling unable to keep the other clauses, or there’s an order you simply can’t follow, then so be it, though you’ll be sorely missed. Adamant isn’t just an organisation, but a family. Everyone together as one, fighting not just for yourselves and your family, but for each other, Akio and the world. When you withdraw you’ll be bound under Shaeula’s winds to keep all our secrets, and all equipment will be returned, as I fear we won’t have too much to spare. In exchange for the efforts training you, you’ll be required to be available for callup in emergencies, some examples of which are clarified in appendix three. Because once in Adamant, always Adamant. I know none of you would be so cold as to leave your sisters hanging in an emergency, to fight and die alone, right?”

There was the rustling of paper as people checked. “I see.” Luciana said at last. She then looked at Kazumi, her brown eyes smiling. “I do not know Akio as well as you seem to, chica. But I also do not believe he will be preying on us. Even though he does so like the pretty girls, yes.”

“If he does though…” Shaeula warned, and Luciana laughed.

“Sí, yes, I understand.” Luciana said after her giggles stopped. “The predator here is you, not him. Poor Aliyah is right to consider you dangerous. I… I admit to desiring great power. Like most of the Black Wolf, my life, it has not been a bed of rosas, and I never wish to be helpless again. I have no fiancé to forsake, my knife is my husband. So… I shall sign it.” With that decided, she was the first to put pen to paper, and Shaeula’s winds blew jade as she impressed upon Luciana the rules she had to obey. Several others joined her in signing, and were likewise bound. Though I can hear Suzu-san saying as an idol she could never sign such a contract, as she has to remain pure for everyone, and can’t risk following the orders of a man, as he’ll inevitably fall for her charms and order her to do this and that. Why is she even here? I suppose it doesn’t matter, she’s Akio’s Vassal so already in hand, but she sure does have a very high opinion of her charms…

“Kazumi… you…” Hinata breathed, as her pen finished up.

“I can’t always rely on Akio’s charity. I’ve been training here, receiving his blessings. But if I want to keep walking beside you, Hinata, like Natsumi-san does for Motoko-san, then… I have to go further. Besides…” she smiled knowingly. “…I’m making my judgement on what I’ve seen and experienced. If I’m wrong, so be it, I’ll bear the consequences. But he wouldn’t do anything that upsets you now, would he, Hinata?”

Kazumi… Hinata felt a wave of warmth in her heart, that her friend would go so far for her. “I don’t believe you’ll regret it. We even have a uniform!” she grinned. “Maybe I should show it off. Can you two handle things for a minute?” she looked questioningly at Shiro and Shaeula.

“Of course. We’ve got this in hand.” Shiro approved, and Hinata ducked out. She quickly changed into the prototype design, which had no combat capabilities, but had the appearance. Admiring herself in the mirror, looking at the stylish military-style officer’s uniform in black and silver, with a deep black cloak slung over her shoulders, and the silver insignia in the shape of diamonds, she grinned. It’ll be better when we can make the outfits out of the required materials, but that’s a way off yet. But we have to plan ahead. Nothing worthwhile is ever easy to set in motion.

Striding back in she received some odd looks, though Keomi-chan giggled that it looked very cool. She was pleased to see that more people had signed the contract, including a number of Fae, which was interesting. But what caught her eye was that Miyu and her bodyguard Michiru were waiting for her, a bit uncomfortable, Shiro and Shaeula looking on knowingly.

“What’s the problem, Miyu?” Hinata asked, sweeping back her cloak regally. The cap is a bit of a pain with my current hairstyle, but that won’t be a problem in the future… “You don’t have to join Adamant, you’re already a Vassal, which is a privileged position.”

“I know…” she said, a touch troubled. “But Michiru…” Her bodyguard was eyeing the uniform with sparkling eyes, and Hinata sighed. Oh yes, she’s fascinated with dressing up as a ninja. I guess this isn’t too much different.

“I have a question.” Michiru said suddenly. “The rules of Adamant state that we shall take no lover, no fiancé, no husband… but…” her voice was getting smaller and smaller. “… what about… a female partner?”

Oh, I see. As Shiro burst out laughing, Hinata spoke gently to her. “I think if it’s within Adamant, or… with another loyal servant of Akio…” she looked at Miyu then, amused as she looked away, face red. “… then it should be fine. Adamant shall be your sisters, friends… I suppose a lover isn’t out of the question. Besides, Akio is cheering the two of you on. He’s not opposed to your love.”

“Love? I would not be so bold…” Michiru was bright pink, though her darting gaze at Miyu belied her words.

“You still have to abide by the other clauses though.” Hinata warned. “No exceptions, not for anyone.”

“That is no concern, I have intent to seek out a child in the future…” Michiru declared, before Shaeula spoke up.

“A worthy goal, but perhaps one you are not-not qualified for?” she snorted. “But if you seek a child with Miyu here, perhaps such is not impossible.” At their stunned gazes, she grinned. “Akio has proven that a lunar chakra makes one enough like-like a Fae to do many things. Eri and the others likewise. Birth as the more powerful Fae do it knows no gender. However…” she looked at Miyu, eyes glowing. “… you do not-not have a lunar chakra, and I do not-not feel confident experimenting with your Chakra network, as it is entwinned with your Divine Favour. But in the future…”

“A child with Miyu-sama? I could not… could I?” Michiru overheated. After a while she croaked out a few more words. “…even so, bearing the child of a strong man is the dream of all Koga ninja… except my sister. But then Kozue hardly counts, she is quite the annoying, petty and insolent fool!”

“All right, let’s change the subject! If you think you’re so desirable that Aki is going to use the clauses to extort you into an affair, I admire your confidence. Can you compete with us?” Shiro laughed, showing off her proud figure, sparing the embarrassed blushes of Michiru, though she signed the contract nonetheless. Then Hinata looked shocked as Miyu had found a contract from somewhere and had signed as well. On seeing Hinata’s surprise, Miyu merely gave a mysterious smile.

“If you wish to bring the majority of Hanafubuki under Adamant, my enrolment will aid you.” She turned to address the Shiraishi sisters. “I know I have changed. I have been forced to. Unlike you, my worries are of life and death. Yes, your family will fall without aid, and grandfather and Ichijou-sama will ruthlessly make an example out of you all. The worst thing to do, especially now, is to show Japan is vulnerable to foreign powers, and the nobility are a shield for Japan. Your father’s foolish actions, being taken in by Takehisa-san, have damaged us all. Now Akio must clean up your mess. But… this way lies hope.”

“Even you can not-not be excused from the rules, Miyu.” Shaeula warned, her emerald winds blowing.

“I know. I am prepared. But…” Miyu’s smile was a rare one, full of sly humour, quite unlike her usual  modesty. “… your bodyguard speaks true. I know him too. Remember when we first met, I thought he would demand my body as a price for helping me. He did not, and I greatly offended him. He has many beautiful girls around him, he has no need of me. I believe I shall be safe. And if not…” she nodded to Michiru. “…our punishment for your disrespect at first meeting can finally be repaid. But I believe such worries are groundless. Besides, my marriage is to be decided by Akio anyway, such was the agreement with grandfather, as I recall Akio said as a Vassal, I am too precious to waste on a worthless man.”

Well remembered. “Yes, I think he did say something like that, and it’s true. Oh well, welcome to Adamant. You’ll have a Numbered role.” Hinata explained. “We’ll work it a little like the Hyakki Yagyō…” the Kamaitachi, who had also joined, nodded at that, pleased. “The Numbers will command squads, and be in charge. As for recruitment…”

“We’ve been vetting you all. Although we have a couple who slipped in.” Shiro looked at the Shiraishi sisters, who were hugging each other, overtaken by the pace of events. “But from what Hinata and Miyu say, we can use you, so I guess it’s fine. Any newcomers have to pass Shaeula’s winds, and don’t worry about the Chirurgery, Shaeula will handle it in her free time.”

“Another burden on-on my shoulders. But I shall not-not be discouraged.” Shaeula said, pumping her small fist. “It is impossible for Akio not-not to have an organisation behind him, and I shall get use out of you all as well-well. As for training…”

“Sorry twins, but you are going to be worked hard. But that means you’ll end up being promoted quickly.” Shiro nodded at the two girls, who were amongst the most vital pieces Hinata wanted to acquire. With their abilities, we can train Adamant to greater heights. But sadly they’ll still have to help out with the standard trainees… a lot of our abilities are bottlenecked, such as gear too… we can’t ask the dwarves or Ixitt to prioritise us over Akio’s projects, even if this organisation is for him.

“There’s a lot we want to do, which is all to help Aki. Like learn how to level up without needing certain Favours or Aki’s skills. After all…” Shiro grinned, tapping her sizeable chest. “Tan must know a way, maybe a lot of ways, but she’s not telling.”

“There are certain things I cannot say, even to you, princess. All I can say is in higher realms, such limits do not necessarily apply. There are always restrictions, based on fortune, talent and circumstance, but…” Taṇhā trailed off, Shiro’s eyes darkening again.

“You heard her. It can be done.” Shiro said happily. “And Aki’s so busy all the time, we can help him out by this. And make Adamant even stronger. Though Aki’s probably getting busy another way right now. I suppose it keeps Eri happy, which is a good thing. Then there’s equipment…”

Hinata nodded at that. “This is just the design. Stylish and militarily focused. But we have plans to make it more than that. But we lack materials. Hyacinth is doing her best to grow the remains of that Unseelie Duke as a base material, but the need already exceeds her free energy and time. Besides, we need other materials.” At that, Shiro and Shaeula exchanged amused glances. Hinata remembered when they had shown her the clips of some anime, not seeing the relevance, but now she understood. Once more Taṇhā spoke up.

“I have never heard of such an idea. This world is indeed interesting. The creatures you seek exist in many worlds, I do expect some can be found here, though to process such would test the skills of any smith. Do you mean to have him do it?”

“No way.” Shiro disagreed with Taṇhā. “It defeats the point if we make more work for Aki. No, we’re going to be his strength. Hence…” she looked at some of the ratkin and weaselkin, some of the rare few female Mortal Engineers. “Our ambitious little friends here are prepared to sign up to Adamant in exchange for greater opportunities to experiment and shine. For those of you who are not human, priority goes to you when we find more means to allow you to access the Material. Whereas for us humans the reverse is true. Hopefully about now Aki is securing some fire element, Arisu can make spatial, we have light from Haru… so we have all seven. I doubt anywhere on Earth there’ll be such a good place to learn. And the cutie twins here can speed things up a lot…”

As Hinata, Shiro and Shaeula continued to lay out the ambitious plans, the tearful, fragile Nozomi-san finally grasped her pen, trembling hands dragging it across the page. Seeing that, Arisa-san exclaimed out loud. “Nozomi, if you do that…”

“I have already been betrayed. Fujiwara-sama wishes our family punished. I saw the proof of Takehisa-sama’s duplicity, and now wonder if he ever even loved me at all. Rather than face ruin, humiliation…” she looked at Hinata then. “… If I do this, my engagement will be broken…”

“It’ll break anyway. As soon as that creep realises you haven’t got anything left to steal, he’ll flee.” Shiro said quietly. “Not all men are trash, there’s some good ones out there, like Aki, but… if he didn’t plan to screw you this way, he’s a genius at cruel incompetence. Don’t look away. Face your fears. It’s what I did. Shaeula did. We all did.”

“…even if it’s a lie, I’ll make sure your reputation is protected.” Hinata promised. “I need you back to the old, kind, smiling Nozomi-san that the juniors look up to.” She then turned to the younger sister. “And you, Arisa-san, you have guts, and the seniors think you’re a cute junior. Your aid is needed too.” The scratching of the pen on paper happened then, as Nozomi-san finished signing her name, and Shaeula’s winds blew, causing her to shiver. Suddenly it enveloped Arisa-san too, as she had picked up a fallen contract and signed her own name. Her sister’s eyes went wide, and she opened her mouth to speak, but Arisa-san was faster.

“I won’t let you do this alone. I’ve had to watch you cry for weeks now, Nozomi. I hate it!” she turned her in tense gaze on Hinata. “If you betray us, I’ll… I’ll…”

“You’ll do nothing. Hinata could break you like a twig, and she’s the weakest of us.” Shiro laughed, and Hinata pouted.

“That’s rude! But sadly true…” she sighed, before brightening up. “But soon, that’ll change!”

“Aki’s going to get really busy.” Shiro teased, and Hinata blushed.

“Enough of that! Arisa-san, you’ve signed now and Shaeula’s winds have bound you. You might regret it…”

“I won’t. Not if Nozomi can stop crying, and we can save the Tengokusentou. You were right. Father was a fool. Even if we lose the newer hotels, we can’t give that up, it’s the foundation of Shiraishi house!” Her words were firm, her brown eyes glaring. “Besides, I’m not stupid, I rank in the top three in my grade! I heard you all talking. You all have faith he won’t abuse the ability to order us around in the contract. It sounds like he won’t even know about it!”

“True. I do wish he would be bolder, more… aggressive.” Shaeula laughed. “But also, we promised Eri we would not-not force more females upon him. But the rules stand for a reason. If you catch his eye and he desires you… perhaps some of you are hoping for such…” she smiled at the elves, who were indeed there as part of a political marriage play. “… but Adamant is more than just this-this.”

Hinata clapped her hands. “Enough of that.” She cast her eyes over the last few who hadn’t signed. “We have called you all here to be something greater. Think very carefully about what you’ll be giving up if you pass up this choice. I don’t want any of you to regret it. The name of Adamant will soon be synonymous with power, authority and victory, and you shall all be as close as sisters, fighting for the same cause, for Adamant, for Akio and the world in which those you love dwell!” As more of the remaining guests put pen to paper, Shaeula’s winds flaring a verdant green, Hinata shifted the cap on her head, freeing her dark hair. Meeting Shiro’s eyes, she grinned. Adamant. With such an organisation working behind Akio, with members of the faith, nobility, world of politics, business, spiritual beings and more… let’s see anyone try and stop him from being best placed to claim rulership of Japan, then eventually the world! Brain whirling with ideas, Hinata covered her mouth to hide her predatory smile. Soon Ixitt will begin his factory, with help from Nie Ling and Ginneka, and the battery and power generation tech will spread through Japan and the wider world… we’ll have a monopoly, and as the OPEC countries have shown, they who control power, control the world… and we… They would control power of all kinds…