Four Hundred And Six

Four Hundred And Six

“Have you been to many festivals?” I asked Daiyu, who merely shook her head.

“No, I had little time for such things, nor were there such in the halls of the Incorruptible Jade...” she paused, considering. “No, perhaps there was.” As she looked around at the bustling festivities, a long-nosed Tengu mask replica on one side of her head, she considered it. “The Sect halls had those who could not Cultivate, servants, family members who had no talents, farmers and craftsmen and their families. I have come to realise, one cannot survive purely though pursuing the peak of Cultivation. Experiencing life strengthens one’s will.” Her small hand was clutched in mine. “No, they likely did hold such events, seeking joy in the lonely mountains of Shaanxi. Such word never reached my ears, or those of us who held ourselves proud and aloof in the halls of our Sect.”

At seeing the faintly melancholic look on her face, I pulled her close. “It’s fine.” I assured her. “That just means you have more to experience now.” I promised her. “Look around. Did you imagine you’d be at a Tengu festival?”

“It is more unbelievable that I would be here with my Dao Companion.” Her expression changed to a small smile. “I thank you for your efforts to console me. We should enjoy ourselves. After all, I do not have long before I must hand you over to the next girl.” Her smile widened at my slight discomfort.

Yeah, it was Haru-san’s idea. And not a bad one... Since there was nothing we could do until the festival was over, and I was here with four of my women, Haru-san suggested I spend some time with each of them. At the sharp gleams in their eyes at that, I realised refusing would be a foolish choice, so after a heated game of rock-paper-scissors, the order was decided, and Daiyu was first. I was still a little wary of the whole situation, but with Prince Shōtoku assuring me that Tarōbō and his Tengu wouldn’t be so base as to profane their ceremonies with treachery, I relented and decided to enjoy myself, though I did warn the others to stay together and keep alert.

“In that case, is there anything you’d like to see? You might as well take advantage of this to experience what festivals are like, because back on the Material, you’ll be going to them with me for many years to come.” I said gallantly, and her face reddened slightly, and her hand in mine tightened its grip.

“I am happy just seeing new things. I was too closed away, in my own world. Now, I have already achieved more than I ever believed possible.” She said. “So tell me, is this what those you have been to are like?”

Looking around at the streets of mount Atago, I frowned. Is it? There are definitely similarities... The paper lantern glowing in a multitude of clouds overhanging the streets, the stalls, the revellers wearing masks... though the Tengu masks here are worn over the face, not at the side of their heads, and they seem to wear them all the time... “Sure, there’s a lot that is the same.” I admitted. “Which is strange. Or is it? I suppose our traditions had to come from somewhere. But the stalls aren’t the same.” Here there were no festival staples like teriyaki, noodles or takoyaki, the food was all variations on roast pork, with a variety of styles and sauces, and the drinks were all sake, though some sweet low-alcohol amazake was also sold.

“Hungry?” I asked, and Daiyu nodded, so I went to a stall selling skewers. The Tengu behind it was wearing a yukata, modified so the wings could fit out the back. “Uh... what money do you take?” I asked, and the Tengu shrugged.

“We have no use for such trivial things. Tonight we celebrate the divine flame and call upon fortune before our champions are chosen. Eat, be merry, visitors.” He pressed the fragrant skewers, still piping hot into my free hand, and I grinned as I passed one to Daiyu. Champions, huh?

“I see. Thank you for your gracious hospitality. When our alliance is concluded and you can visit my Territory, you simply must check out the café on top of our great Tree. You can sample our delicacies. Mmm, this is quite good.” I said, taking a bite. Beside me, Daiyu was eating quietly and daintily, through from the set of her face I could tell she was enjoying it. Up above fireworks were exploding constantly, though the noise of them was much reduced compared to the Material, and the blooms of light in numerous brilliant colours far brighter.

“Normally the fireworks are at the end.” I said to Daiyu, remembering when Eri had confessed to me. “It’s the climax, and seen as rather romantic. Ask Eri if you want to know more about that.”

“Oh, I see. I shall do that.” Daiyu licked her fingers, before flushing a little, embarrassed. “I could use something to drink, the meat was rich indeed.”

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With wooden mugs in hand after visiting another stall, I pointed out the other difference. “A lot of the Tengu seem to be carrying torches, and there are open bonfires burning everywhere. We wouldn’t do that back in Japan, it’s a fire risk. Since they are venerating their flame though, I guess I can see why they would...” I caught sight of the red-robed figure of Summer moving through the crowd, and decided to follow him. Though of course, we can’t forget to have fun... Squeezing Daiyu’s hand I grinned. Now this I didn’t see happening this morning...

********

“A fire-leaping challenge, huh?” Natsumi said, nodding. As second place, she was now my date, and I was telling her about Daiyu’s exploits. “It seems rather unfair, as Tengu can fly.”

“True, but it’s a great shame to rely on anything other than the strength of their legs, apparently. Though their wings can be used to catch the updraft, not that there would be much from the bonfires.”

“I see.” Natsumi nodded, she too wearing a Tengu mask, rakishly pushed to one side of her head. On seeing my look, she giggled. “I would never get to be so carefree at a festival in Tokyo. As a daughter of nobility, even as one of the Three-Hundred, I must never let myself be seen having immodest fun. But here...”

“Here nobody but us can see. But screw it, if you want to have fun in Tokyo, do so. I don’t think it makes you any less elegant and quite frankly, I don’t care. I’m happier when you are enjoying yourself.” I said, and her grip on my hand tightened.Finnd new chapters at novelhall.com fortunate. That you understand me so well.” She smiled. “I always wanted to go to a festival with Motoko. Now... I’m just sorry the others can’t be here too. Anyway, tell me more...” she said, and I continued the story, pointing over towards a large series of fires, around which dozens of raucous Tengu were gathered, wings flapping and arms gesticulating wildly. Even as we watched, a Tengu jumped the flams, landing awkwardly, crying out as his wings started to smoulder. A watching Tengu dumped a pail of water over him, dousing the embers, and the crowd hooted, cheered and stamped their feet.

“On seeing the Tengu, obviously Daiyu wanted to try. She’s surprisingly competitive. But first, the red-robed Tengu, I still don’t have his name, I’ll just call him Summer, decided to leap. He was impressive, I’ll give him that. Unlike a lot of the others, who got a little burned like the one we just saw, he was over in one great bound.”

“He is one of their leaders, you’d expect that.” Natsumi said, captivated by the tale. “So Daiyu...?”

“The surrounding Tengu were raucous.” I grabbed another mug of sake from a passing Tengu, and was going to get a second for Natsumi, but with a pretty smile and blushing face she stopped me, so we shared the mug, taking turns sipping from it. “Some of them mocked her for being small and wingless, and said she would never make the jump. Others worried she would burn her pretty face.”

“That fired her up more, I imagine?” Natsumi said, and as I went to sip, she did too, and our foreheads bumped together gently, and as we looked at each other, she started giggling uncontrollably. As I pulled back she leaned in and kissed me, the taste of sake on our lips and tongue.

“This is fun.” Natsumi breathed, licking her lips when we were done. “So, she made the jump, right?”

“Of course. This is Daiyu we are talking about.” I said proudly. “She leapt right up into the sky. For a moment it looked as if she would crash down into the flames, but she spun in the air and cleared it elegantly, landing like a professional gymnast. The Tengu went wild, hooting and cheering, and even Summer had to applaud. We stayed and watched a few others make the jump, enjoying the spectacle...”

“Did you kiss?” Natsumi asked, and I nodded.

“It seemed a good moment.” I looked up at the fiery flowers blooming up above. “Fireworks set the mood. But... having them continuous does make them a bit less special.”

“Each one is a prayer to the flame.” I turned to see the massive Tengu Arangbō behind us. I frowned, not liking the way he was dismissive of Haanōbō before, but quickly smoothed my expression. “The flame of mount Atago was entrusted to Great Tarōbō by the kami, long ago. And we have protected it from all. It is the source of prosperity for us, as well as our sacred charge.” His head tilted upwards, light from the fireworks reflecting off his crimson mask. “But now... troubles, one after another.” He looked at us, and the set of his wings was angry. “First, the Gods, the greatest kami, they have started touching the world again, no matter how weakly...” he glared at the distant Prince Shōtoku, who was enjoying some sake with Yasaka-san. “... then the flame...” he turned to the great golden blaze at the centre of the temple. “... and the poor, damned spirits. Now visitors, and the disgrace of Winter. To think I call that useless failure kin.”

“If the kami gave you the task of protecting the flame, why do you dislike the kami of Kyoto so?” Natsumi asked what I had been thinking.

“It is our charge, and we do it faithfully. But in the end, they see the flame and mount Atago as theirs. We, and Great Tarōbō, are merely caretakers. Such arrogance. What have they done for us? Their meddling now will bring ruin to us all. This creature you spoke of, it is likely here because of the hubris of the eight million, and the great gods. No, the flame is ours. We will safeguard it, even from the kami themselves!”

“I see.” I said non-commitally. No wonder they were affronted when I wanted to share their flame. But I still want access to flame element, and this one seems potent... “So, prayers, huh? Is the flame leaping the same?”

“Indeed.” Arangbō agreed. “I saw that girl leap the flames without fear. I was impressed. But you did not try yourself.” He observed.

“No, I didn’t.” I agreed. “I’ve heard tell of challenges from Tarōbō.” I smiled. “That interests me. So I’d rather not show my hand too early.”

Arangbō paused, before letting out a hearty laugh. “You? Do not be so arrogant, just because you defeated Haanōbō. These trials, challenges, are prayers to the flame, and will weed out the unworthy. Only the most powerful of Tengu will be chosen. You visitors from below the mountain have no chance of triumph over us. We Directions are sure to be the victors.”

“I see.” Natsumi giggled. “So Haanōbō was the weakest of the Four Heavenly Kings, and a disgrace.”

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“I get it.” I stroked her hair as I tucked the heavy bundle of cloth under one arm. “I struggled at first too. Arranged marriage isn’t ever something I thought would be a part of my life.”

“But you do not regret it?” Motoko said, staring up at the fireworks. Some Tengu were flying between the blasts, dodging the explosions of brilliant light to the whooping cheers and applause of the drunken and rowdy masked Tengu below.

“No. I don’t. However it started, it’s how it finishes that counts, and to be honest, if I saw another man making a pass at you, Natsumi or Hinata now, I’d probably murder him. I’m selfish, but... I guess I have to be. People rely on me. Hell, the world relies on me. Sure, I dare say that some other Chosen are worthy and making an effort to prepare us for the dangers that are coming, but...”

“... but relying on others is foolish, when you can use your own strength to protect what you cherish.” Motoko agreed with me. “Which is why Natsumi and I are training every day. We cherish our Arts, but... we also cherish you, and the others. Never forget that.” She touched my cheek gently, tilting my head, lips pursed, and I kissed her. Our tongues entwined, and when we were done, our lips connected by a momentary bridge of hot saliva, she was breathing heavily. “... I am just happy what I want to do and need to do are now the same. So, if you are ever dissatisfied with me, do tell me, and I will do my best to...”

I silenced her with another kiss. She’s still insecure. I get it. She’s so elegant on the outside, being raised a daughter of Tsumura house, but unlike Hinata or Natsumi, she doesn’t have confidence with men, or in herself. “You don’t need to change for me. Just be your best self, and I’ll love that.” I promised. “So, what would you like to do?”

“There.” She pointed at a group of Tengu firing arrows at a boar-shaped target. One strange thing was that the arrows were doused in boiling oil first, so that it was like a volley of fiery meteorites streaking through the brilliantly lit night. “I would try my skill against these Tengu.”

“Festivals should have games.” I agreed. “Though it’s usually goldfish scooping, or cutting shapes out of sugared candy. Excuse me...” I said, and after some discussion with the Tengu, Motoko had borrowed a bow, holding the flaming arrow gingerly.

“Just as Bellaera said, everything affects the shot...” Motoko muttered. “But a flame acts as a living thing, constantly shifting. The change in heat, weight, all must be balanced...” she squinted, pulling back the heavy string of the bow. It was bulkier than the Tsumura-style bows she normally used, and some of the Tengu had concerns if a fairly frail-looking girl could draw it, but I had no doubts.

“And... there.” She loosed the arrow, and it streaked through the night, joining other arrows, striking the target, though Motoko clicked her tongue, irritated.

“You hit.” I said, and she shrugged.

“I did. But not well. The flame moving changed the trajectory unpredictably, and I was unable to counter it. Again.” She took another arrow, and for a while I was engrossed in watching her shoot. By the fifth arrow she was striking the target well, and her smile was radiant. Handing back the bow to a Tengu, she bowed politely, before turning back to me. Seeing her sweaty brow, I mopped it, and she leaned her head on my shoulder.

“I understand now. It is as Natsumi and I realised earlier. Archery is more than the bow, the arrow and the warrior. Archery is the whole world and everything in it.”

“My sister would agree with you. She loves the bow.”

“Yes. Your sister is easy to get along with. Natsumi and I are well pleased. Hinata too.” I raised an eyebrow at that, and she continued. “We of the nobility know that siblings of our husbands can often be spiteful and unwelcoming. It is a constant worry to us. one of many, that fortunately we no longer have to face.” She said, relieved. “I genuinely like your sister. Shared passions hardly hurt.”

“Yeah, if she was here, she’d be using her own flaming bow, making a scene.” I agreed. “Hang on a minute...” something caught my eye. “Is that Haanōbō?” From a distance I could see a figure in black robes, white wings still in a sorry state. Long violet hair was trailing down behind it, and the head was ducked low, arms in front of the face.

“I think so. I can tell by the way it moves.” Motoko agreed. “It seems it is heading for the temple.”

“Other Tengu are as well.” I noted, catching sight of Arangbō heading that way, flying through the sky. “The fireworks seem to be diminishing in number.”

“I see. Then it seems our date is coming to an end.” Motoko inferred. “A shame. Now Bellaera will not get her turn.”

Bellaera? “She wasn’t getting a turn.” I insisted, and Motoko smiled warmly.

“I am sure she will be devastated. As we were training, trying to catch her as she effortlessly evaded our clumsy attempts, she talked rather fondly of you.”

“Why? We’ve barely spent any time together outside of some meetings and a little bit of time I spent training with the Way-Wardens.”

“You underestimate your own appeal, to a warrior. And Bellaera is not one to seek a weak man. She is of nobility too, of a Fae kind, so has no resistance to arranged unions. But alas, you said your days of arranged marriages are over. So...”

“So...?” I asked as I took her hand, and we followed the crowd towards the temple square, under the glow and heat of the brilliantly blazing yet tainted flame.

“So it is up to her to make her charms known in an ordinary manner.” Motoko’s smile deepened, her dark brown eyes knowing, before her expression changed to a teasing one seldom seen on her face. “I am afraid Natsumi and I have been telling her your preferences. Do not blame us if she is more charming than you remember.”

You girls... Shaking my head I squeezed her hand, and put that aside for the moment, spying Tarōbō, now standing at the head of the temple, staff in hand...

********

“It seems I missed my chance.” Bell giggled as Motoko and I approached, hand in hand. Everyone else was already here, and I shrugged as she said just what Motoko had. Is this because she’s talked to my girls?

“Sorry, but four dates in one festival are more than enough.” I brushed her off. “Besides, you’re not my girlfriend, Bell.”

“I could be.” She winked. “I’ve been told that you actually have a thing for elves. I’m an elf. It’s a good match!”

Huh? I looked around, and Natsumi smiled guiltily. “Shiro said you liked elves, and especially elves in...”

“Oh, please don’t say anymore!” Curse you Shiro! A man’s taste in ero-doujin is sacred! Besides, to be honest, that was more Yasu-san’s thing. I do admit, elven women in anime were always gorgeous though... and their haughty pride breaking, accepting they like someone they used to see as inferior... well, I don’t get that vibe from Bell or Soliteare at all. They’re too... normal, I guess?

“I didn’t really understand, but Eri told me not to look into it. But Bellaera was happy to know that you do like elves so she has a chance...”

“Changing the subject...” I coughed. “... looks like matters are at a head. And it was Haanōbō, I see.” The Four Directions were now beside Tarōbō, and it was covering its face still with its hands and long hair.

“You have it hard.” Haru-san said, patting me on the shoulder, which was unusual for her. “I had more fun watching you than the festival itself. I knew my idea was a good one.”

“Enough.” Yasaka-san complained. “I didn’t have fun. Now, looks like the chief Tengu is about to speak.” Indeed, as we chatted, the majority of the Tengu had filled the square, and Tarōbō slammed down his staff, and beside him, Arangbō yelled out for silence. Once the crowd quietened, the last explosions of fireworks overhead dying down, Tarōbō spoke.

“Tengu of mount Atago, guardians of the sacred flame...” his eyes fell on us, and I could only imagine what expression he was making behind his mask. “... and our uninvited guests. The time has come. We have sent our prayers, our devotion to the flame, hoping it might quell the spreading abyss. But alas, such hope is foolish. Prayers are best answered by ourselves! We were given the task of guarding the mountain, the flame. But we do it not because this is our task, but because it is ours! We will not let the flame perish, nor abandon our mountain home! No, we will destroy the abyss and its rifts, purge the poor, damned spirits, and restore the sacred flame to its brilliant, untainted glory!”

As the Tengu around us cheered and waved their wings and flaming torches frantically, Tarōbō shouted his next words. “If we must pray, best let our very actions be prayers! So I call on the brave, the strong, the lucky, the proud, those willing to risk all for our home and our duty that we do now through desire, ordered by none and serving none.” He was looking at Prince Shōtoku then. “Prove your desire, your fortune, your skill, strength and determination. Challenge yourself and all others, and take your place in defeating that which threatens all we hold dear!”

The crowd again erupted into frenzied cheers, and the flame in the temple behind us wavered, almost as if it heard and understood... Challenge myself and others huh? Do I want to give it a try? I met Tarōbō’s golden eyes, and he inclined his head, as if daring me to step forward. I guess it depends on just what the challenges are...