Two Hundred And Forty Two *Contains Maps*

Two Hundred And Forty Two *Contains Maps*

In the training hall at Shirohebizumi, my allies were arrayed around us, surprisingly numerous. I’ve come a long way in just a few months, from being alone, to adding Shaeula and her weaselkin, to Grulgor and his trolls, allies from the shrines and temples, and many others. Still, that was just my idle thoughts, trying to distract me from the scene in front of me.

“So, why are you here, Mayumi?” Hinata was demanding, face red. The girl in front of her looked a little affronted at the lack of honorific, but she radiated confidence in a regal way that reminded me a little of Shaeula, who was watching with interest, the spectacle at least relieving some of the deep weariness that was shadowing her features.

“Why would I not be, Hinata?” The girl, who obviously was her friend Mayumi-san, said, puzzled. “Since grandfather was coming, I thought it would be a good opportunity to finally see this man you are so proud of. Besides, it seemed fun.”

Motoko and Natsumi had both greeted her respectfully, Natsumi falling back into her role as bodyguard and lesser noble, which aggravated me a little at her diffidence, but it would take a while for her mindset to change, so I set it aside for now. Behind them, Ichijou-san, shadowed by a single, powerful-looking bodyguard, was grinning at the sight of his granddaughter and her curiosity.

“Fun? This isn’t a spectacle for you to laugh at!” Hinata spluttered. Her brother, Hiroto-san, was watching with a concerned look on his face, knowing well the status of Mayumi-san. “This is serious, important discussion that will decide our future, the future of Japan, maybe even the whole world!” Her face was bright red, and I was struck by how cute she looked, but even so, I thought I would throw her a lifeline.

“I wasn’t aware you’d be bringing anyone else.” I said to Ichijou-san, who had turned up after everyone else had gathered, arriving fashionably late as if he was the star of the show. Which I guess he’s used to being. “I’m not sure that’s appropriate.”

“Oh, come now, Oshiro-san.” He said, watching his granddaughter warmly. “Surely you wouldn’t begrudge an old man the opportunity to teach his granddaughter something important, would you? Besides, she’s been a little down since she had a quarrel with Hinata-chan. Speaking of...” He interrupted the two arguing girls.

“Hinata-chan, it’s been too long.”

“Uh, Ichijou-sama...” Hinata paused, realising she had been arguing fiercely with Mayumi-san in front of everyone, and her red flush was now one of shame, not anger. “I’m deeply sorry you had to see such an undignified display...”

“Think nothing of it.” He waved it away. “You’ve certainly been fierier and more outspoken recently, my Mayumi has told me. Besides, I believe she rather enjoys the discourse, don’t you?”

Mayumi-san nodded. “Of course. Who else would dare to speak her feelings to me, or speak so informally? Still, there is a limit.” She warned.

All right. enough of that. “Well, I’m afraid that Mayumi-san... I can call you that, right?” I asked, and the girl nodded after a moment, eyeing me curiously, as if I was some sort of strange animal. “... Mayumi-san will have to agree to the same terms as you and your bodyguard. We will be discussing extremely confidential matters here. Oh, and let me introduce these two.” I gestured to the two soldiers who would be my attachés and liaisons with the military as part of the agreement, who would also have to undergo a similar process. “These are First Lieutenant Nakano Banri and Major Sasaki Yasu. They’ll be working with us for a while, and also coming on my next mission.”

Major Sasaki, who was the chosen of Bishamon, nodded politely at Motoko, who returned a similarly polite greeting. I guess perhaps they might have seen her before, considering her father and grandfather hold high positions in the military. “I am Major Sasaki Yasu, it is an honour to be here, and I intend to prove my worth. Bishamon, kami of war spoke to me, and told me to defend Japan. As I have always been a career soldier, such an ask was merely a formality, as I intend to defend Japan to my last breath!” he said, expression stern. He was older than me, in his early thirties, it looked like, and his short-cropped brown hair and dark eyes gave him an intense look.

“And I’m First Lieutenant Nakano Banri. I’m only recently a First Lieutenant, I got a rank bump when I disclosed I had been called upon by the kami Kagutsuchi.” He laughed, and as he was around my age, with similarly close-cropped hair as the major, but a dirty blonde shade, and his eyes were a lighter hazel, and his build more wiry and lean, he came across as a little crude. “Still, we were the first two, though now there’s six of us.”

“Yes, I remember you two.” Shaeula observed, grinning sourly. “I trust you have managed to grow stronger, else Akio will have left you further-further behind.” Yeah, she’s in a bit of a bad mood. It must have been tough, dealing with Seelie politics.

“Of course.” The Major said, saluting her. “The information you left us when you visited the Ministry proved helpful to our training. Still, it would be presumptuous of us to expect to match you two. That is why we are here, to offer our support and learn.”

“Well, I concede you know-know your place.” She sniffed. Behind her the various members of the faith were muttering on hearing the gods they were Chosen by, which were by no means minor like a lot of their kami.

“I see. And what does Akio get in exchange for that? I’m not sure how helpful you can be.” Hinata said, looking at them shrewdly, and a lot of us smiled as the sight of a young girl staring down some career soldiers, but then Hinata was fairly fearless when it came to these sort of matters, especially now. Mayumi-san watched on in interest.

“Well, I’m here to talk about that as well. After all, a lot was discussed today. You can tell that by the presence of our guests.” As Ichijou-san took a seat, his bodyguard behind him, Mayumi-san pulled a chair out and sat beside Hinata, watching her, her chin held in her steepled hands. Hinata bit down on a sigh, raising an eyebrow at where she chose to sit. Yeah, okay, there’s a lot of girls there, but... no, it doesn’t matter. It’s only a seating arrangement, nothing more. Hinata would probably tease her about it later. “But then, a lot has happened, right?”

“Yes, it has.” Hikawa-san said, grinning, his handsome features drawing the eye of those around him. Though I notice my girls don’t seem to notice. Feeling happy at that, I let him speak. “Conclave has finally been decided on. It’s a bit short notice, but it’s the weekend after next. So we need to decide on just what we plan to do. When we first started this alliance, it was just to grow our strength and increase our influence, giving our faction a larger voice. But... matters have changed somewhat.” He cast his gaze at the two kami who were present in human forms.

“Yes. I was informed by Takakura-san of this.” I agreed. “So of course we’ll be talking about that too.”

“Takakura-sama, I see.” The old woman who had been brought in by Hikawa-san, Chiyo-san, who was neutral in terms of faction struggles, and head of the old and influential Yushima Tenjin shrine, in Ueno, which venerated Ame-no-Tajikarao, a god of agriculture and strength, although in latter years Tenjin had also become worshipped there. Shifting worship is unusual for true shrines. But I’m still not fully versed in such matters. “And what did such an august personage wish with you?”

“Well, we’ll talk about it. But he hoped we could help put a stop to the wasteful infighting in Kyoto. Anyway, Ichijou-san, as we discussed, I need you to listen to Shaeula and obey her, all right? And she’ll use an ability to make you keep your promises. You too, I’m afraid, Mayumi-san.”

“Wait, what? I don’t believe I agreed to anything. Are you saying my word cannot be trusted? Your fiancé is rather offensive, lacking in...” she started berating Hinata over my demand.

“Cease your yapping.” Shaeula snapped, and her annoyance she was barely holding in boiled out. “You come-come as an uninvited guest, and seek to rile my dear friend and sister Hinata. I shall not-not stand for it. Be silent and obey.”

Mayumi-san paused for a second, unsure of what she had heard, before her brain caught up and she opened her mouth to protest, pale with anger, only to shrink back as a jade aura filled the room. The bodyguard accompanying Ichijou-san made to move, but he was frozen by her piercing amber glare. “I am Shaeula Tu Shae Dannan, Princess of the Seelie and Duchess of the Spring of Clear Reflections. You may be proud of your heritage, I would not-not deny you that, but do not-not forget your manners. You are intruding into matters both important and secret. Be thankful Akio is kind and will-will let you remain here with merely an Oath of secrecy.” Her League, Charm and Majesty combined to make it so none could look away, and Mayumi-san was completely overpowered by her. There was silence, until Hinata broke the deadlock, starting to giggle. When she did so, Eri started too, followed by Aiko. Soon even Motoko and Natsumi were laughing as well, hiding their smiles politely behind their hands.

“When it comes to being noble, Shaeula has you outclassed, Mayumi.” She snickered. “Though at times she’s surprisingly... normal. You could learn a lot from her.”

“Well, I can’t say I’m pleased at this. First telepathy, now mind control. How can anyone ever know if their will is their own with such powers unleashed on the world?” Ichijou-san said, shaking his head, deep in thought.

“It is hardly mind control.” Shaeula tossed her head, long amber hair fluttering. “Merely encouragement to keep-keep your word.”

“Well, I made preparations. I’ll be tested, Mayumi too. Regularly. If I find any discrepancies in our actions or memories that can’t be explained, I’ll have no choice but to assume you tampered with our minds, and the full might of Ichijou house and the nobility will be arrayed against you. Be assured, no matter how strong you are, you can’t fight a country.”

“True. For now.” I agreed, looking unruffled. “Come on, you’ve investigated us. You know we won’t do that. But I agree, precautions are wise. Anyway. Shaeula, go ahead...”

“Very well. You shall keep-keep secret all we discuss here and refrain from disclosing it in any way at all-all, be it verbal, written or...” as Shaeula bound them to secrecy, the winds blowing, I gathered my thoughts. Everything is falling into place. We are starting to get the political landscape moving, Shaeula is finally home, my Territory is growing, and soon we can start dealing with the long-awaited Conclave...

********

“So, thank you for coming, everyone. This is quite the gathering. I’m glad I made the training school pretty large.” I joked, breaking the tension our display of Shaeula’s power had caused. “There are some people here for the first time...” I gestured to the soldiers, as well as Ichijou-san and his daughter, who was still pouting a little at her treatment, but from her seat beside Hinata she was now looking around, curious, taking in everything. “... but now it’s time to take stock and plan our moves going forwards.”

“A good idea. Conclave is going to be... tense. I’ve heard there have been fatalities. I can’t say I fully understand everything that occurs in the other world, the spiritual one where the kami dwell.” Hikawa-san said. “But Ren has been there now, and from what he saw it is a dangerous place. I don’t want to believe fellow priests and maidens of the old shrines, the true faiths, would go so far as to kill each other, but...”

“Yes, we cross factional boundaries here. Takakura-san also wishes for the faiths to come together and join with the new Ministry we are establishing. I’ll talk about that in a moment, but first I’d like to make some decisions about who is going to attend Conclave. Obviously I’ll go, with Shaeula, Hyacinth and my other allies. We need to display strength, after all.”

“These old bones will be there.” Chiyo-san declared. “I have long been tired of the silly games Kudou-sama and the others play. My granddaughters, who have so graciously been improved by this Chirurgery of yours, will also attend.”

“I shall represent Hachisen shrine, as will my grandson and his cousin.” The frail, elderly man gestured to the trainee priest and shrine maiden, who had also received Chirurgery. “Ryūjin shall not go unheard at Conclave.” He was Uchiumi-san, right. A fitting name, as it means ‘inner sea’ and they worship the Dragon God of the oceans, and their shrine is on the bay.

“As will me and mine.” The last neutral priest declared. He was old as well, yet not as frail as his colleague. He too had a boy and a girl as his representatives, who had been trained. “Akaiwashi shrine many not be the most well-known, but we have kept faith for fifteen hundred years for this day.” Behind him the trainee priest, who was pierced and had bleached hair, looking more like a delinquent than a man of faith, nodded fiercely. The girl beside him rolled her eyes, clearly irritated.

“Every voice counts, Akaminai-san.” Hikawa-san declared, and Chiyo-san agreed.

“Too many shrines have been lost or destroyed over the centuries, or even abandoned by faithless fools. Your kami may be humble, but it shall be represented.”

“Well, you all know me.” Hikawa-san declared. “I am Hiroto Hikawa-san.” At the name, Hinata nudged her brother, who had turned up today since the meeting was important. When he had undergone his painful Chirurgery, he had not made a sound, perhaps not wishing to be compared unfavourably to his younger sister. I could understand that.

“My shrine is Hikawa-Kawagoe, where we revere Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the kami that is the namesake of our faction. I wield considerable influence. My son Ren and my daughters, they have great skills, which have only grown under the care of our good friend Akio-san here.” he gestured to me. Ren-san was puffed up with pride, and I winked at him, causing him to pale. Yep, no getting out of filling that mirror for me.

“I shall obviously be in attendance, and am expected to support the head of our faction, Uchida-sama. Obviously I am a man of my word, we all are. But things have changed. Making precipitous moves not knowing the situation is foolish. Besides, we have esteemed neutral shrines here, and even... even an Amaterasu faction minor shrine.” He grinned, gesturing to Kikuchi Shuta-san, who looked ill at ease, his daughter, Maiko-san, and another.

“I feel that your words are quite wise, clik.” The bald, thin man in jade green vestments said, and everyone could feel divinity from him, though to me it was weak. “I am the Jade Beetle kami of Hisuikomushi shrine. My loyal priest has followed the advice of Akio here, who saved us from a cruel fate. Thus I am here before you, clik.”

There was some hubbub around the room, but since news of Shirohebi had spread and some had even met him, a second surprise always carried less shock than the first. Still, as Shuta-san and his daughter affirmed their intent to travel to Kyoto and support me, being a bridge to their faction, I scanned his Territory details.

Vassal Territory: Rank 2

Constructed Buildings: Ether Spire Rank 2, Ether Spire Rank 2, Ether Spire Rank 2, Throne of Heroes Rank 1, Ether Spire Rank 1, Ether Spire Rank 1, Ether Spire Rank 1

Build Queue 1: Ether Spire Rank 2

Build Queue 2: Ether Spire Rank 2

Tithe Rate: 25%

Status: Active – Uncontested – Barrier 100%

Looking at it I felt a bit bad, as I had helped Miyu boost her Territory to a greater strength, and wasn’t even tithing her. Still, I had provided Defensive Emplacements and a safe environment, as well as advice. He could just continue to upgrade his Ether Spires and then the Throne.

“I don’t know much about this Conclave, only that it’s important and in Kyoto, but I don’t want you to go alone!” Takagi-san declared to Maiko-san, surprising her.

“Well, it’s a bit premature, but...” I looked at my parents and the Mori’s, who were sitting at the back silently, watching with impressed eyes as I managed this diverse crowd of important people. “... I feel a bit bad asking for Eri and my sis to miss more school, but I was hoping they could come with me. After all, Eri and Aiko are definite success stories, right?”

“Wow, Kyoto trip! That’s like a classic, right?” Aiko grinned, nudging Eri, who looked a little embarrassed by her antics.

“Hush, Aiko. This is a serious meeting.” She hissed. “Of course. I need to be there. If anyone disrespects you, then I’ll set them straight!” She made a grabbing gesture, and Aiko laughed, muttering that Eri missed her axe.

“Eri’s grades and attendance are fine.” Uncle said, agreeing. “As for Aiko-chan...”

“I’ll be fine. My studies are going well, and I know what exams I have to take. Missing a few days won’t set me back!” she promised, and my mom grinned. “Fine. Enjoy the trip.”

“So, I’ll be going too, right Akio?” Kana declared, and I agreed.

“Of course, not only is Shirohebizumi shrine our base of operations, Shirohebi is essential too.” I gestured to the androgynous figure, who nodded. “Keomi-san and your father are your delegates.”

“So... uh, do we get to go?” One of Kana’s friends, Mio-san, stuck up her hand. “I missed our school trip there, and this sounds... well, fun.” Her other friend, Asami-san nodded too.

“Well, this isn’t playtime. It’s serious business.” I warned. “But you have undertaken Chirurgery like everyone else, and have signed the agreements.” Hinata looked pleased at that. “You’ll need to work, to show what normal people can achieve when running through our training school, all right? If you do, we can pay you some pocket money to enjoy the trip.”

We then went through the other shrines that had been brought in originally. A thin, wizened bald old priest accompanied by a pair of shrine maidens who were still in middle school, Hanabusa-san, was the head of Hanabusa Inari shrine in Akihabara. It had been relocated several times due to war or disaster, and worshipped the kami Uda no Omachi, of the harvest and food.

There was a surprisingly young man, only in his early twenties, my age, Shiba-san, who had his young nephew, one of the few males I had performed Chirurgery on, and his sister, who was the oldest of all the shrine maidens, and attending University. His shrine was a minor one, located in Hachioji and rather run down, yet despite its ramshackle appearance, Kashima shrine was an old one indeed.

Outside of Tokyo, and the furthest shrine from us, was a shrine led by a small, dark-skinned woman, her age was something I couldn’t quite determine and wasn’t rude enough to ask, but I assumed she was around my mothers’ age. She had two similarly dark-skinned shrine maidens accompanying her, one about to graduate high-school, the other just starting. Her shrine was dedicated to a minor kami called the Wolf That Howls, or Hoeruokami. I can’t say I warmed to the idea of that one. Dogs still make me a little nervous. I’m sure Tyr agrees. Still, with the shrine being in the foothills of the mountains north of Saitama, they had a horrible commute, and it was lucky their town was near a line to Tokyo. I think they were the most grateful to be able to use the rooms at the training school.

Then there was another old man, bald and bearded, looking rather ascetic, like a Buddhist monk. He was Fuchigami-san, and he also had a pair of shrine maidens behind him, looking like sisters. One was looking at her phone, and when she saw me looking, she put it away with a wry chuckle. Their shrine was located in Kawasaki, and venerated Benten, one of the seven Japanese gods of fortune, though they were probably the least influential true shrine that worshipped her, according to Izumi-san.

Lastly, from Tokyo there was a final elderly priest, accompanied by another pair of shrine maidens. Seriously, the ratio is skewed as hell. No wonder Shaeula suffered doing all that Chirurgery. Still, she’s about to get her revenge, as the Special Forces are likely to be ninety percent male... Their shrine was tucked away in a little corner of Shibuya, and worshipped a minor kami, Aoikaeru, the Blue Frog of the Skies.

That just left one, and Marika-san was bobbing up and down in her seat, excited by the presence of two kami in the flesh, and the prospect of seeing her grandfather again. “I shall of course be attending, Akio-sama. My grandfather will be there to represent Chairoakitara shrine. Oh, how I wish that Chairo-sama could come like these two.”

“Well, in time.” I promised her, infected by her enthusiasm, even if I could never get her to stop calling me by -sama. She’s too serious for her age, even if she’s a good, studious girl. “So that’s three neutral shrines, one from Amaterasu, and eight from Susanoo faction. Twelve in total. Two shrines are quite major, right?”

“We also have two kami who can walk the earth, and your other spiritual beings.” Hikawa-san interjected. “I’m actually surprised we came this far so quickly.”

“So I’ve been wondering...” Hinata asked. “Just how many of these true shrines and temples are there? In school we were taught there are some forty thousand notable shrines and temples in Japan, and if you include minor ones with only a statue or an offertory box then it is over a hundred thousand.”

“Akio, what are your thoughts? If it’s initial capital, you have money, and as do I. Grandfather will help. You can also get funds from your bank, right? You are with Chase Midas Gold.” Hinata looked proud. “Kira-sama, be serious. Sure, you might be able to lowball Akio now and feel good that you pulled one over on him, but down the line... Akio will remember. I’ll remember. We’ll remember, right?”

“Those who do not-not treat Akio with the respect he deserves will find no favour with the Seelie Court, as he is a liberator of the Spring of Clear Reflections and my husband.” Shaeula declared, and Hyacinth giggled madly. “Yes, if ooone cheats master I will strangle them, choooke them, turn their world to dust and ruin!” Back to calling me master I see. Well, so long as she remembers in private...

“I’m nobody special.” Eri said. “But don’t think I’ll let you look down on Akio just because you’re a noble!”

“I think...” Motoko began. “... you should reconsider, Ichijou-sama. Grandfather might want weapons to defend our country, but if they come by cheating my fiancé... I think he would be unhappy. After all, Akio is giving much to this nation.” Natsumi agreed with her.

“You are all being quite rude. Ten percent of our industrial company is massive. Hinata, you may have wealth, but...” Mayumi-san began, and Aiko snorted, looking at Miyu, who looked down.

“I take it back. Compared to her, you were positively reasonable.” My sis told her.

“Why, you have no right...” Mayumi-san began, so I gestured then, and flame roared into life in my palm, stopping everyone in their tracks.

“Enough. My sister has every right to speak. You’re a friend of Hinata’s, so I’ve been overlooking your rudeness, but my patience is not infinite. Now, if you have something constructive to say, feel free. Otherwise leave the talking to us.”

“I’m not scared of you!” she said, though her shaking hands and pale face belied that, as her dark brown eyes stared at the flame until I dismissed it.

“Fine. Well, I agree. That could be a lot of money. But... Hinata thinks like I do on this. Really, it isn’t something we need you to help us with. The idea is good, but don’t think I haven’t already thought of it. Ixitt and his Mortal Engineers can improve both worlds by combining their strengths. So let me be blunt. Any agreement is going to be vetted by lawyers, although we’ll need to have some from the Ministry first, ones we can trust.” Damn, doing business dealing with Astral matters is tough as hell.

“Fair, and it goes without saying. The sums and technologies involved are too precious not to be secured by an ironclad contract. Go on.”

“I want to bring Fukumoto-san in on it as well. The two of you should work together and construct a new plant and research department within the sphere of Territory I control. I’ll then spend significant spiritual resources strengthening the ether there. That’s something money can’t buy and I doubt any of your Chosen can manage it. It’ll cost me a lot as start-up energy, so in exchange the pair of you should cover the land, construction of the facilities, equipment Ixitt needs for the production lines, and more.”

“I see. Well, that’s not entirely unreasonable.” Ichijou-san agreed, and Hinata nodded.

“In terms of the stake, ten percent is fine.” Hinata said, seemingly going back on her previous words. “Ten percent in Nichibotsu too. Half from the share I’ll inherit, half from you, grandfather.” Hinata said.

“All right, but...” he began, and Hinata smiled.

“That’s for his expertise. Which is priceless. In terms of any breakthroughs...” her eyes glittered with avarice. “... the intellectual property and patents belong to Akio through Ixitt. However he can’t trade them or sub-licence without both of your consent. Profits from any device or finished product will be split evenly, separate to the shares.”

“I see. Well, I would say that if we need to make additional factories to meet demand, what of the costs there? And of materials and the staffing budget?” Ichijou-san asked, and Fukumoto-san agreed.

“Facilities will be shared between the two of you, as Akio will have to bear the cost of providing ether, something only he can do. Staffing and materials... split between Nichibotsu, Ichijou Heavy Industries and us, but obviously Ixitt’s wage comes out of what we pay. Though finding other trustworthy staff might be an issue...”

“We, huh, Hinata?” her grandfather smiled wryly. Well, when a girl gets engaged, she’s naturally joining a new family. Tough break, old man.

“Well, it’s quite the initial investment, so... I think we’d need some assurances, right Fukumoto-san?” Ichijou-san addressed her grandfather.

“Really?” I asked, shrugging. “It was you who came to us. And it’s a smart move. So far Ixitt has been involved in recreating firearms, helping with a biological project, and you heard him. He’s trying to create artificial Buildings for my Territory. I’d imagine it’s only a matter of time before we come up with something useful. If it’s weaponry or other useful items though, I want the right to buy them at cost for my own forces.”

“It would be useful to build a suitable facility to mirror it in the Boundary.” Ixitt mused. “That way I could be significantly more efficient., and use insights from each world to further the other.”

“So, when did you get so bold?” Mayumi-san asked Hinata sourly. “Does getting engaged really change you that much? I admit I mostly came here to see him. I grant that he seems impressive, but... he’s not a noble.”

“Wow, this one’s definitely dumber than you, Miyu.” My sis said loudly again, to more sniggers. Kana was trying her best to hold it in, which made me grin.

“I think...” Miyu began, fighting her natural timidity. “...perhaps you are looking at things wrong, Mayumi-san?”

“Oh?” Mayumi-san arched an eyebrow, surprised she was addressed.

“Yes. My grandfather trusts him, and... well, he helped me when he didn’t have to. Even when we were disrespectful. And Motoko-san, Hinata-san... is a man who marries them really not noble?”

“I always get forgotten.” Natsumi muttered to Eri with a smile, earning a smirk in return.

“Yes, but... if marrying nobility made one noble, then the whole nobility loses meaning.” She protested. “it’s why you are not considered a Takatsukasa.” Mayumi-san said, and I interjected.

“Not true. All three houses, Takatsukasa, Ichijou and Fujiwara agreed that Hinata would be treated as a Takatsukasa descendant and respected as such.” I broke in. “Not that I care. Hinata is Hinata, and to be honest, she’s a lot more likable than you, from our brief acquaintance.”

“What do you know of me?” she sniffed. “Besides, I don’t have to be likable. I’m Ichijou Mayumi! Grandfather, is this true?”

“Yes. In exchange for healing Itsuki, and a few other matters. We’ve agreed some reforms. Mayumi, don’t forget your noble pride, but times are changing. I believe new nobility is being born as we speak. Best we get used to it, and control what the nobility can concede, and protect what must be protected. Best we guide in those who can work within our rules and strengthen us. like Oshiro-san here. He understands the good in what we do, even if he takes issue with some matters. And his marriage to Hinata-chan, Motoko-san and Natsumi-san tie him to us.”

“I’m sorry everyone.” I apologised. “This is taking up our time and we still have stuff to go over. Can we wrap this up?”

“Fine. Well, I don’t know about you, Fukumoto-san, but I suppose I can agree to the terms. Ichijou house will be at the forefront of this new world. A little money is a small price to pay.”

“Yes, it is.” Hinata agreed, looking at me. “Akio, I don’t want to go behind your back, I know you hate that, and I feel bad about doing it before. I’m not going to agree to anything you wouldn’t want, just lay some groundwork to give you options. Can you trust me to talk to Kira-sama alone?”

“Sure, I guess. I do trust you. We’ve all learned our lessons, right?”

“I’m coming too.” Mayumi-san said. “You’ve grown cheeky, Hinata. You should jump at the chance to have your fiancé work with us.”

“Fine then. Come on, Hinata-chan.” Ichijou-san smiled. As the three of them left, followed by Kazumi-san and the Ichijou house bodyguard, I turned my attention back to the others. “Sorry about that. It was kind of personal business. But... look at it this way. It shows the strength of our position, right? Money, political power, potential new technologies... I can offer a lot. And from now on, I want to expand the training. As soon as you trainees have enough aether to enter the Boundary, you’ll be assigned a training plan tailored to you. When we enter the Conclave, though only twelve shrines are represented, we should be able to field a force in the Boundary there that has no equal. Also... if the Night Parade truly are an issue, we have our trump card.”

Shaeula grinned. “I would dearly love-love to see my mother again. As a member of the Night Parade myself now, I shall see-see to mediation between us, should Akio be properly respected. Though first...” she sighed. “I have a meeting with Duke Formor. I wish-wish for him to cease hostilities, and return my maids, both the traitor and-and the loyal.” Her face fell.

“Damn, I wish I could be there with you.” I felt awful that I couldn’t be, but we simply had too much to do. “But you’ll be safe, right?”

“Indeed. My father has arranged it. He will be coming to the Spring. I shall require Grulgor, I trust that is not-not a problem?”

“Of course not. It makes sense, and is probably good for Grulgor too. I hope the Duke is reasonable.”

“Grul will speak to the Duke. It should not come to violence. The Duke hates the Unseelie. Our victory was legendary, Grul says. And he respects strength. Princess is strong.”

“Fine. So see? We have even more leverage at Conclave.” We spent a little longer discussing that, before I turned to the next issue.

“Tomorrow I’ll be leading an expedition to Inuyama. I fear there’s a monster there that is responsible for killing Chosen and possibly ordinary people. It’ll also be a good way to increase the strength of some of us ready for Conclave. So... Haru-san, Kikuchi-san, I would like you to come along.”

They both nodded. I then turned my attention to Miyu. “Miyu, I’d ask that you come too. Don’t worry, I intend to protect you all.”

“I can’t allow Miyu-sama to go alone!” Koga-san protested, but I had to be firm.

“I’m sorry. But don’t worry, I’ll look after her. You are still too new, too untested in the Boundary.” Besides, you can’t grow. Miyu should be able to level up. Getting her a bunch would definitely make me feel better. And some confidence for her too can’t hurt.

Koga-san continued her protests, but my sister was the one to stop her. “Look, I get that you are worried, but my bro won’t let her get hurt. Protecting girls is like totally his thing. So wow, just shut up and get stronger, then next time he’ll want to take you, ninja girl. Speaking of...” she looked at our parents. “... while we’re here, why don’t Eri and I tag along? We can head home from Inuyama, it’ll only be one more day of school we miss. You want to, right Eri?”

“Of course. I want to get stronger. And I know I’ll be safe with Akio.” She answered, before turning to Koga-san. “Look, I get it. This girl is your friend, and you want to keep her safe. But let Akio do it this time. I was weak before too, but I’ve worked hard. It’s been painful and scary at times, but if you want it badly enough, you’ll get there.”

“Fine. Though with missing more school for this Conclave, I am expecting you to work extra hard on studying for your exams, Aiko.” My father said. “Eri-san, you too. You may not have entrance exams, but letting your grades drop is foolish. A smart girl like you should not hurt your future.”

“I understand, father-in-law.” Eri agreed. “But I’m sure I told you not to use honorifics for me, it feels wrong now.”

“Yes well...” my father was quite the old-fashioned man, and struggled with displays of intimacy, and I got a brief bit of amusement watching his internal struggle. “... I shall try to remember Eri-san, no, Eri.” He paused. “Though I do note you vary between calling me father-in-law and uncle. Perhaps it is not just I who need to remember.”

Damn, a joke from my father. It’s happening more and more lately. Putting that aside, I addressed everyone, the soldiers particularly keen on hearing what I had to say. “Look. Shaeula and I encountered this monster there. Not all spiritual beings are bad. A lot of the Fae we can make common cause with, kami too. Maybe even the Night Parade. I know what we’ve been told, but until I see the situation myself I don’t want to make any decisions. But this creature is not friendly, not at all. And if it’s causing needless deaths and suffering, well, it’s our job to deal with it. Right?”

The soldiers agreed. “Yes, that’s why we’ve been seconded to you. To learn.” The Major said.

“It’s also part of the duties of the Ministry we are setting up to manage both criminals abusing their powers, and dangerous non-human creatures. I think that those of faith should be involved in that too.” I continued. “I intend to make sure this threat and any others are taken out. But in danger comes opportunity. Don’t worry, Haru-san, Miyu. We’ve done this before.” I smiled reassuringly. “I’m a bit short on manpower as Shaeula, Hyacinth and Grulgor will be dealing with the Seelie Court, but even so, I’ve faced this monster before, and while I was forced to flee then, I’m ten times stronger now. At least. So I’ll keep you all safe, and I have the backing of these soldiers too.”

“Sure, sounds fun.” The First Lieutenant quipped.

“So, our plans as a whole are thus.” I addressed the room. “Shaeula, you focus on securing the Shrine and dealing with the fallout. Those of you who are trainees, continue to train, ready for Conclave. We need every edge we can. Those of you who are fellow Chosen, we’ll be striking at Inuyama. Natsumi, start thinking about wedding dresses.” There was laughter at that, lightening the heavy mood. “Ixitt, I’m curious about these artificial Ether Spires. Try and push it to testing as soon as you can. If you can make it work then there’s no limit to what we can achieve. Also, well, we’ll see how negotiations go, but start thinking of ideas. Karen-chan, you guys...” I said to my secretarial staff. “... accommodate Ixitt as best you can, and keep coming up with the data we need. You’ll also likely be working with Haru-san when the Ministry is set up.”

“Right, we can do that.” Karen-chan said, but my next words shocked her.

“Oh, but you have to get your training plan and visit the Boundary too. Unless you see it, you won’t understand it.”

Then I also have to visit Kondou Kazuo and perform my experiments, then see Aliyah and her mercenaries, though I need Shaeula back for that, and finally, see Shiro at the weekend and hopefully fix her like I did Takatsukasa-san. I also need to make time to interview the soldiers and Ichijou house Candidates before Conclave. Damn, I’m going to be busy... as usual. I also have to set up the testing ground for the Connections, and maybe sort out the factory site, all of which will use a ton of ether too...

“Damn bro, and here’s us hoping we could spend more time with you. And not in the battling an eldritch abomination way.” My sis joked, and I apologised.

“Sorry. But I hope you had fun sightseeing.”

“Well, we sure did, didn’t we Eri?” At her nod, my sis continued. “Akihabara was pretty cool. The trains in Tokyo are way better than back home, we can get from here to the centre in half an hour, it takes near enough that to reach the next damn town to Nishimorioka.”

“Yes. I bought some... souvenirs.” Eri said, face flushed, and at that Aiko grinned.

“Well, not what she was looking for. That’s a story for another time though, ouch, stop hitting me Eri, your strength is brutal now!” As Aiko cried out in mock-pain (although some of her wincing looked pretty real) Hinata and the Ichijou’s came back. Ichijou-san had a refreshed look on his face, while Mayumi-san was frowning pensively. As they took their seats, Hinata winked at me. “Don’t worry, we reached an agreement. I’ll let you tell him, Kira-sama.”

“Right.” Ichijou-san grinned. “I agreed to the terms, we’ll split the costs down the middle and all your other wants will be met. But the factory will be managed jointly by Hinata-chan and my Mayumi. Also, after Conclave, Mayumi will join the students here. The world is moving too fast, if she doesn’t keep up she’ll be left behind.”

“Honestly, grandfather, I don’t need to, we have our own people to rely on...”

“Sorry, but thinking that way is a mistake.” I interrupted her. “Just ask Haru-san. You never know what will happen in life, and one thing you can rely on is your own skills. Just learn. Hinata would grieve if you got hurt. I’m sure your family and friends would too.”

“Friends, huh?” Mayumi-san looked at Hinata, who smiled knowingly. “Well, don’t forget this. I’m different from you all. Only Miyu-san here knows how I feel. But I guess it does seem a little interesting...”

Damn, she’s so transparent. Queen of the little castle called Hanafubuki, sheltered, inquisitive yet utterly bored, without a true friend. Well, Hinata wants Mayumi-san to see her as an equal, and now she’ll have her chance. She’ll be accepted as a Takatsukasa, work with her running this new factory project, and even train together. If that doesn’t give her the chance, nothing will...

“All right then.” I clapped my hands. “Meeting over. We all know what we need to do. I’ll see our honoured guests off.” I nodded at the Ichijou’s and Fukumoto-san. “The rest of you, get to work!”