Five Hundred And Twenty-Nine

Five Hundred And Twenty-Nine

“It looks like I’m going to have to depart ahead of schedule.” I apologised to Asha, who was idly tending to the field of plants she had created, and Hyacinth had strengthened, using the rich elemental energies her Rhyming Tree was outputting. “I’ve sent Shiro a message to end her Berserk Blessing, but if you could remind her... I don’t want your Tree, or you, to suffer any harm, especially not now.”

“I shall do so.” Asha smiled warmly. “We knew you would have to venture into the Boundary in foreign lands eventually. It merely comes a few days sooner than expected.”

I nodded at that. Yeah, getting by without leaving here was very unlikely. That doesn’t mean I worry any less though...

Seeing my concerns, Asha stood from her field of ginseng and other herbs. She gently brushed dirt off her green dress, one of her favourite colours, it seemed, as she often wore some variant of the shade, and she then came over, sitting beside me, leaning her body against mine. Asha wasn’t particularly demonstrative of her physical affection, though of course we had made love a few times, but as a Dryad she had a rather low sexual drive. It seems she’s abnormally fertile though, that or we’re just lucky...

“I know you worry. But... take it from one who knows. You cannot be everywhere, protect everyone, at all times. Not unless you gather everyone you care about together, and hide away. And... that way is merely delaying the inevitable. After all, did the might of the Seelie Court prevent the loss of the Spring, and my long suffering, the death of my sisters?”

I shook my head, understanding her point. “I know. Even if we did all hunker down together, we’d slow our growth, stunt our potential, leave our fates in the hands of others. But... it doesn’t stop me worrying.” I idly stroked Asha’s long, auburn hair, and her smile was brilliant yet warm.

“Nor should it. Everyone is delighted when you worry for them. I know I am, it shows our hearts are connected. Though... we also do not wish for you to worry. Emotions... love... it is rather complicated. We Dryads have it better...” Her smile changed, now teasing, an unusual look for Asha. Perhaps now she is no longer alone, and is engaging with others, her personality is adapting?

“...after all, we find just one mate in our lives, and then fruit. You... you have many within your grasp.”

“Most men would say I’m a lucky bastard...” I disagreed, and she chuckled softly.

“Maybe so. Everyone is special. I can see that. But... while you receive much love and joy, each is also a weight to carry. If it was just me, or even a handful, then you could perhaps keep us all safe within your grasp, but... that is not your fate. Nor should you lament that. Princess Shaeula is correct. You are destined for great things. Else I could not have been saved. And not just me. Even now, a being of once-terrible power lives humbly in your home, a match for even my father, great Orion, I would imagine. Both are wounded, but... Tamamo-no-Mae will recover with your care, will she not?”

“She will.” I agreed, still unsure of what to do with her, but I believed Uranai’s prophecies, as passed onto me by Shinkume-no-Hana. I do feel better having Mae here. Even if she can only manifest most of her abilities for a short time... I’m sure that would be immense... “Honestly, Shaeula is curious to see if we can heal the King of the Fae, perhaps together, especially if we enlist aid from Bintara as well... it might be doable. Of course, she wouldn’t do it for free...” I had to laugh at that, while feeling a little guilty. While Orion was more a spiritual father to Asha, the Fae took such matters seriously.

“Nor should she.” Asha agreed, surprising me. “Kindness, compassion... they are worthy deeds, but... you have commitments now. To us.” She patted her belly tenderly. “To our children. Those you love should not be disadvantaged by your charity.”

“Can I touch it?” I asked, and Asha merely guided my hand to her stomach, sliding it inside her dress. Her skin was warm, and soft. “I suppose it’s too young to feel them moving? Or do Fae even do that?”

“Perhaps. Fae pregnancies are... malleable. I expect mine to be more so. After all, you are not entirely a Fae, nor mortal. Who can say how our fruits will grow? Yet I know they will be well-loved.”

“I still find it hard to imagine...” I admitted. “I knew in my head one day I might settle down and have children, but it all seemed so abstract, distant. But I don’t want you to think I’m not thrilled...” I hastily assured Asha, who merely smiled in response. “...it’s just... it’s a big responsibility. Now I have to leave the world a better place, for our children, and the children yet to come. And... that’s hard, isn’t it? Ordinary parents half a year ago were worrying about house prices, education, crime... we have to worry about the oncoming apocalypse, dangerous Chosen, rising tensions...”

“It is no different. It is just more to protect. But... we all are responsible for that. You cannot carry it all alone, nor should you.” Asha reassured me. “I may not be strong myself, but... I too will defend what I cherish. I owe it... to those that perished so I might live, to our budding fruits, and ... to you, who shared my Kiss I can only give once.” She kissed me then, a gentle, comfortable kiss. It didn’t have the deep passion of some of the others, but I could taste her love, and when we separated, our lips and tongues damp, I continued stroking her belly, making the most of this brief, calming interlude.

With my free hand I gestured to her colossal and slowly growing Rhyming Tree that towered over the heart of the Territory. Up on the terrace above I could hear the voices of denizens of our Territory enjoying their rest and relaxation. “Not strong? Without your Tree, none of this would be possible.” I assured her. “But yeah... I know. Everyone’s working so hard to be able to protect themselves, and each other. I’m happy, but also worried. But... I can’t be everywhere at once. I have to accept that. We can’t stop trying to grow stronger.”

Asha nodded, agreeing, and I changed the subject. “It’s nearly time for the charity concert here in Japan, right? I’m sorry I’m missing it, but I know everyone’s excited. Especially my sis... Kana too.”

“Yes, they seem rather joyful.” Asha agreed. “I do not quite understand the appeal myself.”

“So what’s your plans for the day?” I asked, enjoying these last few peaceful moments here, as soon I would be dismissing this half of me and recreating it in Botswana.

“I shall tend my fields and the Trees for a while. The herbs are not to Daiyu’s satisfaction yet, though it is but early in my experiments. Then... I shall be spending time with your family at our home.” Her slightly green cheeks were tinged with faint pink. “I confess it a little disconcerting how they fuss over me so. I am not used to it, though it is far from unpleasant.”

“Yeah, it’s a big thing, mom’s first grandkids. No wonder she’s thrilled.” I laughed cheerfully, thinking of my excitable mother. “She always imagined me and Eri having kids together... I guess she’s still not wrong, but now... mom’s just like that famous meme from the film Predator, where they clasp hands. Both Shaeula and mom seem obsessed with me increasing my wives.” I chuckled dryly. “Mom really wants that team of grandchildren.”

“Predator?” Asha asked, confused, and I shrugged.

“It’s an old American film. I saw it a few years ago. It’s not bad. But that’s not the point... it was just a joke.” I snorted, amused. “If you ask Shiro, I daresay she’d be able to explain the meme. All that matters is... mom’s thrilled. And... honestly, I am too, though I’m equal parts scared!”

“Your mother said that everyone is frightened at first.” Asha reassured me. “But she believes in you. Your father does as well. It seems that you turned out fine in the end, he said.”

I shrugged at that. “Yeah, father... well, he doted on Aiko more than me, but I guess girls are more adorable than boys? I was never that close to him, but... I certainly respect him. And... things are better now. But I think I’ll be a more supportive parent, at least I hope so.”

“So, you wish me to be the stern one?” I blinked at Asha’s words, before I realised she was making a joke, and I pulled her close, playfully toying with her hair, enjoying the last few moments of peace before inevitable trouble engulfed me...

Back on the Material in Botswana, we had landed, the helicopter flying away to refuel for our return. Hinata watched it go, before turning to me, whispering so quietly hopefully only I could hear. “There’s clearly more to this than we’ve been told. I know you know that, but...” She glanced over at Christina Bakker, troubled. “...is bringing her wise? I’ve no love for her, how could I? She would have tortured or even killed you if you weren’t strong enough to protect yourself. But... she’s useful still. We don’t have to like her to use her...”

I nodded, using a trickle of wind to hide my voice from the others. “It might cause issues with the Americans if she dies under our custody, but... if she is trying to atone, in her own way, even if it’s stupid... I can’t find it in me to deny her the chance. But don’t worry, you’re my priority!”

“Kazumi too, make sure you save her!” Hinata whispered, and I nodded, though we both knew if the worst happened, Hinata would have to be my ultimate priority. It shouldn’t come to that though, I hope. Fortunately the worst danger, the Material bodies, isn’t an issue for me anymore as I can watch over them...

“So, we are here.” Midas declared, and I nodded, sure that the seeds I was searching for had to be involved in whatever Midas needed me for. After all, the coincidence of this small town we had landed beside being in near enough the exact same area as where we were headed was too obvious to ignore.

“Yes, so... you avoided explaining in detail during the flight.” I observed. “But it’s time to come clean. We can’t help if we aren’t aware of just what’s going on.”

“In that case... we should go to my home.” Midas offered, and I raised an eyebrow quizzically.

“So, you just happen to live near the problem?”

Midas frowned for a moment, but quickly shook his head. “You are hardly a fool, and have seen many things. Power is drawn to power, and trouble often comes unbidden. Now... follow me.”

He led us through the streets, mostly deserted due to it being late at night, and I was on high alert, and wasn’t the only one. While Christina was looking around, her eyes a little unfocused, clearly still not mentally sound, both Titan and Adelheid were wary, Kazumi-san too, of course, she was keeping close to Hinata, and she was also carrying some hidden weapons made by Ixitt.

“Shit. Feel that?” Adelheid grumbled as we approached a modest yet well-kept house. She was rubbing at her arms, a chill at odds with the warm African night, and it was a feeling I understood.

“Yeah, it’s a Territory. His, I presume.” I nodded at Midas, who seemed unconcerned. “It’s a strong one too. Rank three. So he’s either worked hard or is damn lucky, upgrading that far is risky.”

“I know that. Though mine is gone now. You owe me for that, you promised, remember? If you try and cheat me...”

“You’re a cautious one, aren’t you?” I chuckled. “You’ve spoken to Hinata, you know I’m not that sort of man. Anyway... we’re here.”

Indeed, we had arrived, and Midas opened the door grandly. “I hope you aren’t offended by my humble home. I know it seems... strange... that with my golden touch I live so plainly, but... home is where the heart is, so they say. Please come in, and... you are welcome here, have no fear.” He addressed us Chosen.

“I don’t get it...” Christina’s eyes regained a little light as she grabbed my arm, holding me back as Titan led the others in. “If he had such a stable home, there’s no way we should have so little information about him. It doesn’t add up. Midas is one of the cats... uh... sorry, Chosen... that Adam has been most interested in.”

“I... think ya be in real trouble.” Titan agreed. “I be not saying anything, I have to be honest, I don’t much like ya, but I’ve been ya guard for a while. But... he always knows.”

“So yes, poor little Christina is going to end up the way many of my test subjects did. Unmarked grave. So at least let me help this one last time... I can’t turn back the past, but... at least some victims returned home safely, and can be helped. Your injuries too...” she nodded at Hermodike. “...I’m a beautiful woman, though for some reason Akio hasn’t succumbed to my charms. It’s unscientific!” she cried, though her face was pale. “Wounding us is like throwing paint on the Mona Lisa! At least let Akio restore such a work of art!”

She’s laying it on thick. It’s similar to how she talked before, but not quite the same...

“But you’d happily destroy such art, you Americans, if it wasn’t yours.” Midas snorted. “Always the same. You look down on us. And you would do worse, render it down to pigments just to see how it worked.”

“I would, and have. Therefore, is it so wrong to want to see the paint put back in its place?” She crossed her arms triumphantly, and Hermodike sighed.

“My husband worries so. You understand, surely?” I nodded at her words, clasping Hinata’s hand.

“In that case... if you can swear to only heal my wounds, and not affect me in other ways, I would be happy to be beautiful again.”

“You’re still beautiful!” Midas grated, and Hermodike laughed lightly.

“Oh, you.” Her words were fond. “If you do attempt to harm me, my husband is quite overprotective. And powerful, the strongest in Africa!”

“Yes, you will see why my gold is not mere baubles for the wealthy to enjoy.” He promised. “I know you are powerful, but I am he called Midas. My touch is death, just as Zoë became gold at his careless contact.” His glare was fierce.

“Don’t worry.” I promised, and as my phone vibrated in my pocket silently, I glanced at Christina, who winked at me subtly. “I always treat women with respect.”

“In that case...” Hermodike’s smile was shy. “I can show my face, but I would hope you don’t need to see my leg. I am a modest woman, that is for my husband’s eyes only.”

“I wouldn’t go quite that far.” Hinata giggled. “I don’t hate shorter skirts, but I agree my most attractive appearance is only for Akio.”

“Your idea of a shorter skirt is still to the knees.” Kazumi-san rolled her eyes. “Hanafubuki education is strict indeed.”

There was some laughter at that, and I assured her I wouldn’t need to see her leg, as my Eye would direct the healing regardless, again implying it was a healing eye. Midas nodded. “I am curious, my knowledge of Norse mythology is scant. Perhaps one God has such an eye they bequeathed you?”

“Maybe so.” I asked them to fetch a few things, and as they turned away, I took out my phone, and Christina smirked as I quickly glanced at her message. ‘I’m getting you a chance, don’t waste it’, huh? How did she notice?

With damp towels and a bowl in hand, as well as some soothing lotion, which were just a distraction, I let my Eye shine, though I tried to mute the glow with light element as much as possible. Nodding, I grimaced. “Yes, actually the outside of your leg isn’t too bad, but the muscles, nerves and bones are also quite degraded. There are metal fragments inside. From... bullets, I’d imagine?”

Midas nodded sourly. “Yes, from American bullets. They died for it, though.”

“I can fix that, though it’ll hurt a little. The face... don’t worry, it’ll be as good as new.” Yeah, some sort of burn or shrapnel scarring across one cheek and around her eye. She was lucky she wasn’t blinded. Though I suppose it’s not just luck...

I then let my aether free, and while it was a bit of a challenge removing the fragments of metal from muscle and bone without disturbing her skirt, I managed it, and soon the bowl was full of bloody fragments, her body healed up, and it was far easier to fix her face. With a tremulous smile, she brushed her long hair aside, revealing her restored cheek and forehead.

Watching closely, I noticed a bit of regret in Hermodike’s eyes, but it was quickly covered by happiness. As Midas fussed over his wife, Christina gave me a thumbs-up, and mouthed “did you see?” at me. I inclined my head, slightly thankful her efforts had given me a graceful chance to have a look at Hermodike and Midas without drawing suspicion.

“I can see why Miss Lindiwe and her father are so delighted. Your healing is indeed a great talent. We have found none yet who have such blessings.” Midas nodded gratefully. “I appreciate this aid, and...” He frowned at Christina. “There is no forgiveness, for I know you have the blood of my African brothers and sisters on your hands, among many others, but... there is gratitude.”

“I do it because it’s right!” Christina said proudly, the irony not lost on us all. It wasn’t convincing, especially the way she was eyeing me out of the corner of her eyes, trying to see how I reacted, her face pink. “Not because I expect to be forgiven. Sadly... were I to travel back in time, I’d likely do the same thing again. Because I didn’t know there was someone like Akio...” Her face twitched, and she realised she had said too much. “...his healing eye would make my experiments much safer and less painful. It would be practically humane!” she tittered nervously.

“I suppose I can respect your commitment to forbidden knowledge, even if I doubt your humanity.” Midas then grimaced. “You betrayed your country, you say?” He glanced at me then. “I wouldn’t be so sure you’ll die. As long as you cling to him. But if you do, it will be what you deserve. But...” He inclined his head in a polite manner. “...my wife and I will pour a last drink for you.”

“Thanks, I suppose?” Christina shrugged.

“In any case... to business. Will you aid me in dealing with the problem Africa has here?” Midas pressed. “It would be challenging for you to find your fallen Norse comrade without my aid, as the favoured of southern Africa flock to the wanderer, and all agree no outsiders shall be tolerated in the Ancestral Land. But I can smooth your path, despite the cost to my reputation and alliances.”

“I can see it’s an issue.” I agreed. “But...” I glanced at my companions. “There’s risk, going to the Boundary.”

“I’ll step out.” Hermodike said cheerfully. “After all, I can show my face without shame again. Besides, we have guests, and hospitality is important.”

“I can offer you a secure room that can be locked from the inside. Surely you hardly fear my frail wife can beat down your door? Besides, you brought the big man for that purpose, didn’t you?” Midas grinned at Titan, showing his teeth, and though Hinata squeezed my hand, I nodded.

“Hardly frail, but don’t worry. I’m not worried, and I trust in your honesty.”

Shown to a storage pantry which had a fairly sturdy wooden door with thick bolts, we were offered enough blankets to make it more comfortable, and soon we were set up. It was cramped inside, the girls having to huddle together, while Titan occupied another corner.

“Want me to watch for ya, man?” Titan asked, and I shook my head.

“While Hermodike, even if she unlocked the door, can’t do much... his words missed the point. It would be easy enough to get some strong men or Chosen here and break down the door. He’s not a fool, and knows I’m not one either. But... again, I don’t see the benefit for him in that, and he knows that too.”

“There are other benefits though, aren’t there?” Hinata was shrewd. “Miss Bakker, you pressed for Akio to Heal her. You noticed something...”

“Why yes I did!” She crossed her arms under her chest proudly, looking a bit like her old, arrogant self. “But I won’t steal Akio’s thunder. I doubt this room is bugged, so...”

I checked, but just in case shrouded us with wind. “Yes, she hides it well, perhaps because for some reason her stats are absolutely lousy, expect for Aether. But Hermodike’s a Chosen too. And actually, she’s a matching pair with Midas.”

“Yes, I have more experience in noticing the subtle changes. After all, I did experiment on myself and noticed what a little exposure could do.” Christina boasted. Then her mood changed mercurially, her face falling. “Sorry, I shouldn’t brag. The work was meaningful, I can’t deny that, but... I felt what it cost others.”

“So, what Favour?” Hinata asked, and I lowered my voice still further.

“Ajé-Shaluga, twin aspected God and Goddess of prosperity, treasures and trade.” I replied, and Hinata widened her eyes, mind racing. Christina also worked it out quickly.

“I’m no fool. You’re here for more than just religious rites. Just like you want Egil Anderson’s body. It’s the treasure Midas spoke of, isn’t it? That would make...”

“...him or his wife the wanderer they spoke of? So... why bring us here?” Hinata finished for her.

“I can answer that.” I laughed grimly, and remembering what my Eye had seen, I started to speak...