On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

“You do so like causing more work for me. I would be impressed, if it was not so… frustrating.” Arisu-san, still in her immaculate gown from her impromptu broadcast earlier, grumbled, her dark eyes flashing, but her slight smile robbed it of any malice. “Still, I do believe this broadcast will be… one for the history books. I suppose…” She sighed theatrically. “…it will be an honour to host it. And it is certainly good for WTV.”

We were in the underground broadcast bunker in the Imperial Palace. This stage of Pilgrimage was now running behind for us, but the group would move on as planned, and those of us staying behind would catch up, and by the end of the day the schedule should have been repaired. It seemed that originally, the major news stations such as TBS were planned to lead on this, but now Arisu-san was in command, the other broadcasters supporting us. There were grumbles, certainly, but I didn’t even need to do anything, Arisu-san’s icy demeanour and intimidating presence was more than enough, and she’d quickly sorted out roles to give everyone scheduled to appear a decent position.

Arisu-san then glanced down at the sword I was holding, the Ame-no-Murakumo-no-Tsurugi. Tsurugi had adamantly refused to be held by anyone else and seeing the cheeky little sword-girl throwing a bitter tantrum, holding her breath (which was cute but idiotic, as Tsukumogami clearly didn’t need to breathe), stamping her feet and shouting, it had been enough to make everyone smile, and I didn’t insist.

The three Regalia had become their Sword, Mirror and Jewel selves entirely now, manifesting was still too exhausting for them, and I glanced over to where Yukiko was going through final checks before the broadcast, several staffers applying delicate makeup to her face, heightening her attractiveness, and her hair had been untangled from its usual braid, and was now softly styled in elegant, princess-like waves. Honestly, I understand her insecurities. Though… I think she hasn’t objectively reevaluated herself lately.

Being a Princess was surely difficult, both her and Eleanor had a lot of hardships, but whereas Eleanor certainly fit the image of a Princess, Yukiko was shyer, more self-effacing, and… she clearly felt herself too plain. But I don’t think so. At least not now. She actually looked rather striking. The months of feeling the weight of responsibility, coupled by hard training and honing herself, had transformed her, and while Yukiko certainly couldn’t be called beautiful, certainly not compared to Tsukiko or Shiro… but then again, who can be compared to those two? …she was definitely attractive, and her charms were rather different to any of my other women.

Honestly, it wasn’t just Eri that knew it would end up this way. It seems to me, if Tsukiko’s visions were right, that I’d end up protecting all of these so-called Princesses, and the best way to do that is from within my arms. And even if her visions were wrong… well, what will happen twice happens a third time, and three times breeds a fourth… I can’t leave it to anyone else. Even if I’m not the man from her prophecy, at the end of the day, I’m not letting someone else screw up, get a Princess killed and doom the world and those I love who live in it. Best to step up and handle matters myself…

Seeing me watching, Yukiko turned, her cheeks a little flushed from embarrassment, but she gave me a warm smile. Now she had confessed, and I had accepted her, she had gained some confidence, or perhaps just lost a lot of hesitation. As the woman with her finished applying makeup, warning her to be careful where she touched with her hands, Yukiko strode over, first nodding politely to Arisu-san, who returned the greeting, and then smiling at me, a mixture of warmth, worry and anticipation writ across her face.

“So, how do I look?” she asked, and I held in a grin, knowing there was only one answer to that.

“Gorgeous, of course!” I insisted, but knowing that wouldn’t be enough. It’s just like shopping. I can’t just say they look cute, or pretty, I have to give a tailored compliment to each woman. The path of a harem bastard is hard… “That hairstyle is fresh on you, and it makes you look a bit more feminine, while the hakama shows off your regal appearance, as well as your arms. I like your arms. They are slender, but you can see the hard effort you’ve put in. They aren’t delicate, but they’re… well, like nobody would call a panther anything but graceful, I could say the same about you.”

Yukiko paused for a second, brown eyes blinking, as if unsure quite how to take that, before she glanced at Arisu-san. “Do you think that was a worthy compliment?”

Arisu-san snorted, rather amused. “From him? Most certainly. White does struggle getting him to be more open, at times. But…” Arisu-san’s black eyes were serious. “…I myself prefer such compliments. After all, one’s appearance, while it can be managed, improved, enhanced, is far less important than one’s efforts, for they belong wholly to oneself. I believe that was what he was trying to say. That your determined struggles have borne fruit. Besides…” Arisu-san glanced at me. “…I believe from what I know of him, Akio-san appreciates a woman who is strong, rather than a gentle flower.”

I nodded. “Exactly. Don’t get me wrong. I think you look very charming today Yukiko, and that makeup suits you, though your skin is flawless anyway due to your stats. But… honestly, your face is actually quite cute.” As Yukiko blushed, fighting the urge to look away, I shrugged. “But your heart is more beautiful. After all, it takes a great deal of strength to resist being crushed under the weight of what we carry.”

“That’s right!” Princess Kaoruko agreed, coming over, followed by her younger brother. They had both finished their preparations as well, and Yukiko’s cousin smiled at us both warmly, before turning to Yukiko. “You always worry too much, cousin. I’d say there’s no point to it, what with Gorohito being the one who is going to inherit, or if not…” She ruffled the hair of her young brother Hodahito, who frowned, clearly irritated by her actions, but putting up with it. I guess that’s the reverse of the dynamic I have with my sis… well, older siblings should look out for their younger ones, and that’s as true of royalty as anyone, I guess…

“…my little brother has had the training, and he barely ever complains.”

“What good would complaining do? It is a waste of time grumbling. The lessons are tiresome, but we have many privileges.”

“Yes. Whereas Yukiko and I…” Kaoruko-san let out a rather cheerful giggle. “…we have other troubles. But I’m happy to see you finally found someone to love, cousin, even if… well, I’ll be blunt, Akio-kun, if I may?”

I nodded. We still had a little time before the broadcast. Yukiko was wearing the Yasakani no Magatama, or rather… Magatama… around her neck still, and beside her lay Yata in her Mirror form. The Regalia seemed disinclined to let most people touch them, so it was decided that Yukiko would present the Regalia to Japan and the watching world. Speaking of that, the Queen and Eleanor are still observing through the video link…

Mom and father had excused themselves, returning to the Pilgrimage. I had never seen father look so happy as when he was leaving, though mom seemed disappointed, as she wanted to fuss over Yukiko and Eleanor some more. I guess father is getting a taste of what it’s like to have to deal with all these important people. I barely notice anymore, but when I was first starting out, it was rough…

As if reading my thoughts, Arisu-san spoke. “White has departed to join the others. Tsukiko-san has gone with her. She says her task here is done, now that you have spoken your true feelings, Yukiko-san.” At Arisu-san’s words, Yukiko looked down, embarrassed, to the amusement of her female cousin. “As for White… our guest does not wish to be near her, or rather, near Red, not in the state he is currently in.”

I was trying not to think about that. I glanced over to where the familiar figure of the Avatar of Emperor Ōjin, the Kami Hachiman, was standing, his curiosity boundless as he surveyed the broadcast bunker. With his lithe, tall figure, patrician face, complete with trimmed, pointed beard, and his Imperial crown, sword and sceptre, he seemed more of an Emperor than Yukiko-san’s grandfather, and his presence was stifling, even with his League leashed. I see why they had Nie Ling here now…

“Yes, he does seem… weaker.” I agreed, pushing down the thought that as it stood, I could probably give him a good fight now. As if sensing my thoughts, Yukiko put a hand on my wrist, and whispered urgently.

“You can’t! That’s Hachiman, the Divine protector of Japan, and more importantly, the Imperial line! I don’t care how many Levels you’d get for killing him! Although… if it was a Class…” She paused, before her eyes went vacant for a moment, and she seemed horrified, shaking her head. “No. No! You’ve infected me with the joy of seeing our strength improve. But we can’t do bad things for it! I’ll go Levelling with you during the Pilgrimage, I promise!”

As I merely stared at her, open-mouthed, Kaoruko-san burst into laughter. When she regained her poise, wiping at her damp eyes, she met my gaze seriously, her brown eyes peering into my grey ones. “That was amusing, even if I don’t get it. But… I’m relieved, you know?”

I listened silently, and I wasn’t the only one. Hodahito was watching us, and Yukiko, her face frozen in an embarrassed expression, was also waiting to hear what her cousin had to say.

“Yes, relieved.” she repeated. “Honestly, I’ve been a little worried for Yukiko. After all… we Princesses know each other’s struggles the best, don’t we?” She smiled warmly at her cousin. “But it’s harder for you. You’re in the direct line of descent, Princess Mikasa. Me, I’m just the spare.” Her laugh was self-deprecating. “I guess I’m in the same position as my brother.”

Hodahito shrugged. “It’s quite different. Just as you’re not likely to become the Priestess of Ise, neither will I become Emperor.” He glanced at me and Yukiko then, his eyes unreadable. “Especially not now. But we have privileges for our struggles.”

“Of course.” Kaoruko-san agreed. “I wouldn’t deny that. We’re wealthy, if not to the extent of the peak of the nobility or big business. And we have the respect of the nation, if not… the worship. Not anymore. Although…” She glanced meaningfully at the Regalia. “…that aside, Yukiko never seemed happy. Less so, when she was picked out by Amaterasu. It’s not like I could understand her pain, not in that regard, but… I know she was lonely. In fact…” She glanced over at the screen from which the British were observing. “…being of Royal blood is always fraught with loneliness. But… Yukiko changed. First, when she became Amaterasu’s Chosen. Not… not for the better, I’d say.”

“Yes, I was bitter, angry.” Yukiko sighed. “Fortunately, Uncle Daimon…” She snorted, amused. “Really, calling him uncle feels strange… regardless, he and his fellow Onmyōji helped keep me sane. As did Tsukiko, my truest friend over all these years.”

“And then you changed again.” Kaoruko-san pointed out. “This was after the Conclave you attended. And even after the Diviner… no, she’s Tsukiko-san now, isn’t she… after her death, you continued to change. We worried you’d break, that it was too much for you to bear, but…”

Yukiko glanced at me and her smile was brilliant, and that made me want to tell her she was beautiful, as nobody who smiled like that from the heart could ever be plain. “Yes.” She agreed. “…I had someone I trusted to support me, who promised to make my pain go away, impossible as that seemed. Honestly… I wanted someone to see me for me, Yukiko, not Mikasa, but…” She took a deep breath. Her brother Gorohito had returned, having composed himself, and was taking his position beside the Emperor and his father. It’ll soon be time…

“…ironically, it seems I am a Princess through and through. I wanted a Prince to charge in and save me. And… I got my wish.” Her smile died down, now soft, gentle. “But it’s not just that. Honestly… we can talk as equals, you don’t either treat me as fragile because I’m of the Imperial Family, nor do you pander to me. You simply look at me. And… that’s a powerful thing. Before I knew it, I found myself eagerly awaiting your texts and calls, and… when I needed help, like now…” She touched Magatama, before patting Yata. “…you deliver. How could I not be smitten? Though… honestly, I still feel inferior to some of the others…”

“That was my worry.” Kaoruko-san agreed. “You have a lot of women, Akio-kun. I worried you were a womaniser, out to toy with Yukiko. But… I see you genuinely treasure her, as a friend at least. And… friendship can certainly grow into more. But…”

“Yeah, it may seem easy, enviable… and honestly, I’d be a liar if I said I wasn’t happy…” I admitted. “…but I’m not just a lusty pervert, seeking to build a harem. I’m… making connections, bonds. That… that’s my Path.”

Tsurugi shivered in my hand, and I knew she understood. The connection I had forged between their fragile, ephemeral Truesoul and the restored spirit had also taken a part of me, and the Regalia were therefore also bonded to me, in a way. Just as Yukiko is. We have the bonds of friendship, the connection of our shared love for Tsukiko, the link that her love provides, and the shared faith that our Path is one we have to journey down together. And… we will both be the stronger and the happier for it. Because one stick, no matter how thick, is fragile, but a dozen, far smaller sticks, tied together, can resist a mighty strength…

“It’s a path I want to walk too.” Yukiko admitted. “It’s a… complicated… feeling, honestly. Not having him to myself, but…” She giggled then, amused. “Honestly, the Ningen-sengen and losing the War changed everything. It was in nineteen forty-seven where the rules for the Imperial Family were changed, and no longer did the Emperor take multiple brides or have consorts. But… we’re repealing the Ningen-sengen this very day…”

“Yes. We are. But that still doesn’t change the fact… you had best make Yukiko happy, Akio-kun.” Kaoruko-san warned. “I’m trusting you with my awkward, yet earnest cousin.”

“Don’t worry.” I promised. “I know it’s going to be tough at times, but… I have my resolve.”

“Excellent.” Arisu-san interrupted. “All very touching, and I’m sure White was just delighted…” Her tone was withering. “But now you should take your places. As must I. This is an event of great importance… do your best.”

I grinned, the tension suddenly leaving me. Isn’t it odd I’m more nervous facing Kaoruko-san, rather than the media of the world now? Times… they’ve changed.

As we took our places, Yukiko beside her brother, Gorohito glanced at me, before managing a nod. “I… apologise for before. I became too heated.”

“It’s fine.” I shrugged. “You are bound to worry for your sister, it’s only natural. No man wants his sister to marry someone like me, who seems to be a playboy. But I assure you, I’ll make sure Yukiko is happy.”

He paused, before shaking his head. “I can hardly interfere now, it seems. Especially not… after this broadcast. I… apologise that I accused you of stealing her though. My sister knows her own mind, apparently.”

“Apparently?” Yukiko hissed, as the final preparations for the broadcast were underway. “I’m a grown woman, Gorohito. I know who I love, and I know the downsides to this relationship. But… I also know the positives. And…” She winked at me then, looking rather lovely with her changed hairstyle. “…it’s not just you making me happy. Love is a two-way street. Besides…” Her smile was now sly. “…Tsukiko and I, we’ll work together to capture your heart!”

Gorohito blinked, taken aback at his sister’s change. He looked as if he was about to speak, when the lights dimmed, shrouding our stage in darkness, before a spotlight lit up Arisu-san and several other presenters.

“We are going live in sixty seconds.” she intoned, and a countdown began.

All right, here we go. I reached out with my free hand, gripping Yukiko’s, and she squeezed me gently, both seeking and offering reassurance.

“Just… don’t make a scene.” Gorohito insisted, and as the countdown reached zero, Arisu-san began.

“Good evening. This is Arisugawa Arisu…” She paused so her colleagues could introduce themselves as well, but I paid them little attention. “…and to those citizens of Japan who wonder why the J-Alert system activated, directing you to tune in to our humble, new station, WTV…” At her words, I could see from the screens that were displaying our feeds that the logo had appeared briefly… “…and to the viewing public from around the world, who have had their programming interrupted by this hastily scheduled broadcast…”

Arisu-san’s poise was regal as she switched to English flawlessly there for a moment, as she changed back to Japanese, knowing that the foreign stations would be translating for their audience.

“…all shall soon be revealed. Not all emergencies are grim ones, and… we need good news during these trying times.” Arisu-san’s smile was stunning, and I suspected that a whole new generation of viewers would be falling in love with her. Though she’ll likely only find that a bother…

Pausing for dramatic effect, she began with a brief history lesson, her eloquent, crisp voice reminding the viewers of the past of the Imperial Family, both mythical and historical, though most of us now realised that those were largely the same, and then to the war and the Ningen-sengen, the Humanity Declaration.

“Just what does this have to do with anything, you might well be asking…” Arisu wound down. “…and why is WTV taking the lead on this broadcast? Do we not deal with Chosen matters? Is it perhaps that I am simply so photogenic that I was asked to lead?” Arisu-san made a joke to lighten the mood, though the way she said it made it sound plausible. Arisu-san definitely has star quality, even more so now she’s become a Chosen, gained Statistics and been through hardships. If before she was good enough to be scouted for Hollywood, now… she could be a top box office draw…

“No, in fact, it is simply that this is a Chosen matter, and one of great importance. Now then, please see the lineage and genealogy of the Imperial Family, which should now be displayed on your screen, and then… his Imperial Majesty, Emperor Akihito, shall address the nation of Japan, and the wider world.”

All right then. Here we go…

There was a minute or so to let that sink in, and then the lights came on, illuminating the Imperial Family, and also myself, who stood next to but slightly behind Yukiko. Yata was placed between us, while I held Tsurugi, and Yukiko wore Magatama. The Emperor, dressed in all his finery, his wife beside him, soon to be my grandmother-in-law, commanded attention, despite their advanced age, though after Chirurgery, they should regain some lost vigour and appear younger.

“My loyal citizens, people of Japan…” he began, his tone resonant, speaking voice impeccable. “…I am Emperor Akihito, current head of Japan, though… I was reaching the age where I was thinking of stepping down for my son…” he admitted. “…though, in troubled times, stability is needed.” He smiled then, rather ruefully. “While many would say it is the politicians and big business that keeps Japan afloat, those who know what happens behind the curtain are aware of the role we serve. And in this time of chaos…” He took a deep breath.

“I understand. It is hard, our citizens were attacked by outsiders, foreigners, unrest simmers within, the Gods, long forgotten, seem to have revealed themselves through their Chosen…” He resisted the urge to glance at his granddaughter, though I could see it was a struggle. “…and yet… you still have ordinary concerns. Going to work, earning money, buying groceries, looking after your children… day to day worries, which will not change. Even in the Great War, which we suffered grave defeat in, despite the hardships, we all endured together, and still had our ordinary lives and concerns, even if other matters took precedence. This… this is no different.”

He continued to speak, and I listened along, nodding. Honestly, he’s right. And it’s why I fight. So that these ordinary days, simple, heartfelt worries, can continue. I don’t want to be trapped in an endless cycle of fighting and strife, I want to enjoy life, I want my friends, family, those I love… to enjoy life. And this… this is a vital step towards that. Unfortunately, the universal truth was, without wealth, without power, there was no security. Power above wealth though, for what one had could be taken away by the strong. Earth, our civilisations, which had developed over the last fifteen hundred years, had tamed that somewhat, but now the mask had slipped, and chaos was seen beneath it.

Clenching my fist, I once more resolved myself. It was a huge ask, and bigger every day, but… the Path I chose had no room for backwards steps. No, only trudging forwards, but… the greater the pressure of sheltering an ever-increasing number of hearts, the greater the strength it gave me, as they pushed my back, urging me onwards…

“…the war was a tragedy. We lost, and were a subjugated, beaten people. Fortunately, the young do not remember this now.” the Emperor continued. “But the oldest among us do. But, more importantly… as a beaten people, we were forced to recant, my father, was forced to repudiate the very Divinity that lies within us. Honestly… he did not wish to, not at all, but… we were beaten, and had no choice. Worse… for the last hundred years prior, the remaining few miracles of the Kami were dwindling, a trend that was only accelerating. It made it easier to swallow…” he admitted. “…so father swore, though… in the end, the shame, the regret, for both that betrayal of our lineage and country, as well as the generation of lost men and the occupation and the horrors it wrought. Fortunately, father lived long enough to see Japan start to flourish again, but… there was always something… missing.”

He glanced back at us and smiled wearily. “Now, there are some here that say our defeat was justified, that we… were not a country with clean hands. Now, I say this. Whatever past transgressions we made, most who were alive then have passed on, peacefully. And in war, none have spotless hands nor souls. But… perhaps in the future we can earnestly seek understanding, so that… we never involve ourselves in such aggression again. I cannot say we will fight no wars, for… trouble comes looking for us, whatever we do. Yet, just as our military is called the Self-Defence Force, we too will only act for the protection of our people, and our trusted allies.”

I nodded at that, though… As a Chosen, I’m going to have to make the first move sometimes, root out problems before they fester. But… I’ll not act unilaterally. I’ll seek counsel from the others, to hopefully prevent mistakes…

“Now, to the point of this. The Ningen-sengen was forced upon us, but by our own actions, our own failures… yet… father should have refused. Better to face death than to betray the Goddess that burns within our bloodline. It was a petty act of revenge from our triumphant conquerors, to spit on our culture, though they claimed sound reasons for it, and perhaps they even had them. After all, the loyalty of our people was second to none, and through their veneration of my family, to the Gods they offered prayers, they would sacrifice their very lives if called upon. But… even had the Declaration not been made… science is the death of faith. Yet…”

He paused, and though he appeared calm, his hands were trembling. Taking a deep breath, he spoke. “I have received a call from the President of the United States of America. Due to an Executive Order, he has allowed us to once more speak the truth. And that truth is… Ningen-sgengen is a lie! We, the Imperial Family, do indeed claim the blessing of Divinity, of Amaterasu! And it burns within us!”

Yukiko stepped forward then, accompanied by Gorohito. For a moment Yukiko faltered, but she glanced back at me, and my smile strengthened her resolve. Swallowing, she raised her hand, and a blinding halo of the sun shone behind her, the heat carefully controlled, more light and fury than any actual power behind it. But it illuminated her brilliantly, and the golden cloth of her hakama shone, the white parts stained yellow by the vivid sunlight.

Beside her, Gorohito stood proud, but I detected a flicker of unease on his face, and he glanced at the halo of flame warily, as if afraid it would burn him. She’s got better control than that…

“My granddaughter, Princess Mikasa, is one of these Chosen, and Amaterasu has called upon her, as she is a devout woman, the Priestess of Ise Grand Shrine. Modest too, as she has kept from the public eye, a wonderful example of Japanese womanhood.”

I saw Yukiko’s face twitch at that, and I held in a sigh. It seemed grandfather-in-law was still old-fashioned and held views that the younger generation didn’t ascribe to. Well, in time he’ll have to change. Besides… I certainly won’t be keeping Yukiko out of sight. What use is being a harem bastard if you can’t brag about the women who are too good for you?

“In this crisis, the young must lead…” the Emperor continued. “Prince Gorohito is another fine young man, and while his time is not now, in the near future, he will be shouldering the burden of this great country, and also of Amaterasu, the Sun!”

Gorohito waved regally, nodding gracefully, and the Emperor continued. “Now, this must all come as a great shock to you, but… we implore you. If Japan is to weather this crisis, you must once more believe in the Divine light that burns within us. In unity is strength, in belief, power! We, the Imperial Family, our son, our grandson and granddaughter, our other family…” The camera panned over everyone on the state. “…we will strive to protect your lives and what you hold dear. But to do so, we need your faith once more!”

He paused, taking a deep breath. “However, such words are far from persuasive enough. So allow me to call upon he who has long been the patron and protector of our Imperial line…” He raised his voice into a cry. “Great Hachiman, Kami who is the Divine Protector of Japan, and Guardian of the Imperial Family!”

With that, Hachiman stepped past me. He gave me a sidelong glance, remembering me from Mount Atago, and his smile was knowing. He was then at the front of the stage, and his eyes held a boundless, ageless wisdom.

“I am Hachiman, Emperor Ōjin, once mortal, now a Kami who has the long duty of watching over this land, and my successors. I shirk not from war, for a warrior is noble and can protect the people, nor do I neglect the plough nor the nets, for farmers and fishermen feed the people, and starvation is as devastating a failure as invasion. Both lead to ruin…”

His voice was resonant, piercing, and I could feel the high Majesty he was exuding, likely higher than mine. Though… since this is an avatar, I don’t feel it being that much higher… In fact, Hachiman seemed rather suppressed, perhaps to prevent damaging the Boundary, as while the Imperial Palace had a higher ether density than much of Tokyo, it wasn’t on the level of Kyoto, especially now.

“If I may…” Arisu-san spoke up without any fear. The other two presenters were pale-faced and trembling at even the leashed League of Hachiman, but she was unimpressed. “…while I understand that you are clearly not a mortal, nor even a Chosen, and are surely noble Hachiman…” Watching her converse so calmly with Hachiman, it was hard to tell which was the Kami. “…times have changed, as our esteemed Emperor has suggested. The watching world is sceptical. After all… you have been gone for a long time…”

Hachiman inclined his head. “Yes. It has been many long years indeed. And it seems that the warriors of Japan have not always been triumphant.”

The Emperor looked abashed at that, and Arisu-san barked a laugh.

“Indeed. Though in this new age, wars shall be rather different, or perhaps…” She narrowed her onyx eyes, thoughtful. “…they merely return to their roots. A hundred soldiers, could they defeat you, Kami Hachiman?”

Hachiman shook his head, hand on the hilt of his regal sword. “If they were brave I would accord them honour, but I protect this land, I would cut them down with sword, pierce them with arrows, and smite them with flame.”

“Arrows? How… old-fashioned.” Arisu-san remarked. “I can see you have a lot to learn. But my point is not this. The country is watching. You may not be aware of how it works, but across these islands, no, across the world, what we say and do here is known to all in but mere moments. So… Kami Hachiman… to celebrate the Imperial Family reclaiming their legacy, and to spark both hope and faith in those watching… a miracle perhaps?

“This fragile Boundary already cracks and trembles. Far quicker than it should…” Hachiman stroked his beard, in thought. “…but…” He glanced at the halo of light Yukiko was exuding. “…Amaterasu’s Sun. Well done, child of the Imperial bloodline, my descendant.” He smiled like a proud father. “The Sun burns bright! All should know and believe! One day, the Gods shall return, and those of this land shall be blessed.”

Yukiko glanced at me, and I shrugged. Sure, they’ll be back, or something will be, but… whether it’s Amaterasu and her ilk… I wouldn’t like to bet on it.

“We hope so.” Arisu-san agreed. “But… even in the days of the War, the populace was lacking education, and a means of rapidly disseminating information. Now… to believe, it is challenging. After all, I have met Kami and Goddesses, yet even I struggle to believe at times. So… show us a sign.”

“Very well.” Hachiman agreed. “A sign, you say… I can do it, but… how will the masses see?”

“That would depend on what you wish to do.” Arisu-san asked, and Hachiman gestured with his sceptre.

“I shall spread the message. The dove symbolises the loosed arrow, both of war, and also of triumphant return. Gather, and fly to the four corners of this land, spread the word that the Imperial Family continues as yet undiminished!” I felt a surge of power, my Eyes glowing, and adherence flooded from him.

“Switch the feed to outside the Palace.” Arisu-san ordered. We had camera crews following the Pilgrimage, and some were surely waiting for her, as she was coordinating everything. The screens displayed the outside view, and suddenly someone cried out, to look above. The camera was tilted, and then we could see it. Dark shadows were in the air, first a few, then many, then a swarm. It’s like the documentary feeds I saw where locusts blanketed the sky, only, it’s not locusts, but…

Birds, thousands, tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, were gathering. Turtle Doves and Rock Doves in droves, other species which were rarer, Collared Doves and Emerald Doves, mixed in too. The sky over the Imperial Palace was soon black with them, and Arisu-san inclined her head. “Impressive. A feat not even a Chosen could replicate. At least not easily, noble Hachiman.”

Hachiman nodded, stroking his well-groomed triangle beard, though I detected fatigue. He had burned a lot of adherence, amounts that made me jealous, though if the plan here worked, likely Hachiman would gain a renewed surge of worship which would replenish him over time. “Indeed.” he agreed. “Now… scatter, spread the word to the four corners of the land!”

Adherence surged again, and the swarm of doves, which seemed to fill the sky, separated out, forming four bows, each with an arrow nocked, pointing in the cardinal directions. It was an incredible display, and I was impressed the birds could fly in such a formation. Moments later the four arrows were loosed, birds racing out into the evening skies…

Can I do something like this? No, it’s easier for him as his adherence ties in with the doves. It’s not entirely dissimilar to… I glanced at the screen where Eleanor, still rather tipsy, was watching from. She seemed to have made the connection too, how the ravens of the Tower were alike.

“My voice is carried to the four corners of Japan.” Hachiman repeated, as the feed was back on us now. “Let it go unimpeded, but yet not unheeded. The Imperial Family carries the blessing of Amaterasu, and all should offer fealty. In exchange, we shall fight, bleed and die for the land, as I did, and continue to do so, even after my ascension.”

Gorohito looked a little pale, perhaps thinking of battle, and Yukiko smiled, speaking for them. “Honestly, I was afraid to do so, we are a peaceful people now, noble Kami Hachiman, but… as the sun warms the land, and leads to a bountiful harvest…” She tied it into Hachiman’s nature as a Kami perfectly. “…I shall do the same. For I do not stand alone…” She beckoned me forwards, and I stepped into view, nodding at Hachiman as I passed, noticing he was extremely weak now, his strength expended on the grand display. But…

My Eyes glowed, and I could see that Yukiko was gaining strength, adherence being drawn into her, the flaming halo brightening. It was only a small boost, but then, we had only just started trying to rekindle belief in the Divinity of her and her family. Time to step it up as planned.

With a smile, I kissed her on the cheek gently, only for Yukiko to flush, and instead of kissing my cheek in return as we had planned, she took my lips. I parted mine in surprise, and her tongue squirmed in. She was clumsy, unused to kissing, and clearly embarrassed at doing it in front of the watching world, but her breath came hot and her brown eyes were moist, so I responded, and for an uncomfortably long minute we kissed, until she finally pulled away, hands touching the dampness of my saliva that stained her lips, her lightly applied makeup having smeared.

After a long moment where she was dazed and contemplative, she coughed, and the flame of Amaterasu spread from her, and I grinned, a dark halo forming behind me, that of Prominence Dusk. Clasping her hand, I smiled as we held our hands high. As the light of the halo was drawn in, my aurora began to burn too, though with a dark radiance.

“My granddaughter, Princess Mikasa, is to marry a man that needs no introduction.” The Emperor declared. “Now, it is unheard of for us to marry outside of our extended family, or the families of the nobility that has upheld Japan these long centuries. Most think the nobility vanished when the post-war constitution was implemented, and indeed, much has been lost, but… those honourable houses still remain. Akio here has ties to them, so… it is not inappropriate. Besides… he too is blessed by the Gods of this land.”

“Just as I bear Amaterasu’s blessing, he bears Tsukuyomi’s…” We were passing off Prominence Dusk as that, since the actual Favour I bore was too intangible to display. Yukiko continued to praise me, which I bore with good humour, even as inside I felt the shame. I’m a greedy man, I have many flaws, but… you won’t regret loving me, Yukiko. I promise you that. And if I can achieve that for you, for everyone… then be it the people, the Gods, or even myself… nobody can criticise me.

“Just as my light shall shine, bringing warmth… so too shall Akio’s darkness fall upon our enemies, those who would seek to do us or Japan harm! While the moon is beautiful tonight…” Yukiko said the traditional words that meant she was in love. “…the light of the moon is harsh to those who would seek to harm us. I am a Princess, a priestess, and a woman. All three are hard in modern Japan.” She raised one eyebrow, amused at her own joke. “So no ordinary man would suffice for me. But I assure you all…” She stared at the camera, serious now. “…while there are certainly political benefits, I do this out of love. I won’t say just how Akio has saved my heart, these past months… but know that without him, I would have faltered under my burden. So… you should be honoured, as… you saw my first kiss.” She flushed.

At that the Emperor coughed. “That is quite enough of that, granddaughter. But yes… Akio shall be marrying Princess Mikasa. And he too carries the blessing of the Gods. While it is known that he has… many… women, before, it was not unusual for the Princes and Emperors to have consorts as well as wives. For a Princess to be just one of many is certainly… unusual… but… it is down to the depths of their feelings, and the gravity of the situation.”

Yukiko nodded. “I shall burn for Japan, just as the sun does, but… I shall never abandon happiness. Akio taught me that. Unless we are happy, the world is meaningless, and if those we love aren’t in it, what use the world?” She took a deep breath. “That is why I ask of you all… the Ningen-sengen was a mistake, a lie, a trapping of the defeat we suffered. So please…” Yukiko bowed, as did I. “…give us your faith, your belief, and we shall give you our protection.”

“Moving words.” Arisu-san declared. “Now, as you are aware, I am rather close to Akio-san… as a friend, I must reiterate. Do not mistake that. One of his lovers is a dear friend of mine, after all…” She paused. “…no matter. What does matter is, you have seen it, Kami Hachiman and his miracle, Princess Mikasa and her flames of the sun, Akio-san and his grace of the moon… just as the Gods Amaterasu and Tsukuyomi were married, so too shall these be joined together. And so, give them your approval, and your prayers, as we rekindle myth in modern Japan, and the old ways are mirrored by our new ones!”

“A moving scene…” Arisu-san’s fellow anchor said, a rather smart-looking woman who I recognised as one of the lead reporters on TBS.

“You think? We are far from done.” Arisu-san insisted. “After all… the Regalia…”

“Indeed. I hope you can all wish my granddaughter and her fiancé well.” The Emperor agreed. “But we are here to show our true Divinity, and once more step out as a leading light for our nation. Not to usurp due political process, or to seize power.” He assured the watching public. “But to be what we were always meant to be. The leading pillar of our nation, the conduit between Japan and the Gods. Again, the shrines and temples are important, the Eight Million Kami should be worshipped as before, no, with greater fervour than ever. But… without us as link to the Divine, our nation is hollow. To that end… the Gods blessed this family with three Divine treasures. Now… see them as proof of our strength and dedication.”

I raised Tsurugi high. Since she had relinquished her Tsukumogami form for now, and was the sword alone, it was now a far more solid blade, losing the ephemeral nature of before. I could hear her thoughts while I wielded her, and she was enjoying showing off. Raising her high, she suddenly said something that made me panic, and as my eyes widened, Hachiman too had a strained expression on his exhausted face.

I feel them. People like me, father! They think I’m the best sword, a sword of the Gods. I’m not, I’m your sword father, but… we need to show off! Let me… gather the clouds for you!

“This… is a little unexpected…” Arisu-san declared. “Go to the outside feed again…” Now the sky was darkening once more, but this time it wasn’t doves, but a circling vortex of inky black clouds, centred on the Imperial Palace, having come out of nowhere. Adherence and aether was surging out of Tsurugi, and I panicked.

“Stop that!” I hissed, not even worried about potential damage to the Boundary right now. Even though the display was small-scale, only covering a few miles around the Palace, it was still a great effort. “What if you hurt yourself?”

I’m happy you worry for me, father, but… I want to show this land you are worthy to carry me! I feel… doubts. Many praises, much wonder, but doubts too. I shall gather these doubts like clouds, and cut them like the storm! Besides, Yata says that we should do it, and… Magatama will help…

As the jewel on Yukiko’s chest glowed a fierce jade, the adherence in the surrounds magnified. Moments later, the Yata no Kagami shimmered with a brilliant glow, in front of the world transforming into the beautiful golden eyed and platinum haired Yata. As she landed gracefully on the stage, she turned to me, as I still held the sword high. “I am the Yata no Kagami of wisdom!” she declared. “With wisdom, I declare you worthy!”

Magatama then shone brilliantly, and her voice echoed out. “I am Yasakani-no-Magatama. With benevolence, I call you both blessed.”

Lastly, Tsurugi cried out, and a bolt of lightning flashed. Thunder boomed, and rain began to fall in a downpour, just over the Imperial palace, and as it did so, I saw a flood of adherence start to pour towards us, gaining in intensity. A second bolt of lightning flashed, and this one vanished in a spray of violet sparks, before appearing in front of me, the actinic sparks blinding, making everyone blink. Before panic could set in, I reflexively slashed out, and the electricity burned me, searing into me like a torrent of violent energy.

Wait, it… is energy, isn’t it?

I cut the storms, father! I am still not at my best, but I’m a good sword, the best sword, the only sword, yes?

At her pleading tone I ignored the fact I had been burned by lightning, and held her blade down, letting the remaining sparks earth. Yes, you’re the only sword for me…

“I am Ame-no-Murakumo-no-Tsurugi…” Her voice rang out imperiously, but it lacked the dignity of Yata and Magatama. “…and in valour, I declare that father is the best! Anyone who doesn’t show proper deference to father and my mothers will be cut like the thunder!”

Yata, clearly a bit thrown off by Tsurugi’s odd declaration, merely pushed through. “In benevolence the Gods forged this land, but in benevolence man must rule, and in benevolence must all pray. With valour the Gods defeated those who held this land in thrall, and with valour man must fight to defend his kingdom, and with valour the brave must shed blood for their homes. With wisdom, the Gods chose those who should rule, their power, a mere shadow of it, passed down through the generations, and with wisdom chaos must be navigated and disaster avoided, and with wisdom, the populace must give their support to those who face peril on their behalf.” She paused for breath, and her hair shone with brilliant light. “We are the treasures that only the worthy wield, and we speak. In benevolence, valour and wisdom… this land shall be saved!”

With that, Yata returned to her mirror form, rolling towards us, and Yukiko scooped the shieldlike object up. As the rain cascaded down outside, soaking the palace grounds, rainbows bright around the fringes of the Palace, lightning flashing, Arisu-san had ordered the feed to shift, commandeering a camera crew from TBS who were filming something else and piping the feed in. The screen changed, looking down from a helicopter, and it seemed that a great number of people had spilled out into the streets, watching the broadcast on their phones. There were shouts and cries, and even prayers, and the noise was deafening.

“I hear the crowd. They seem to be calling out prayers to Amaterasu, Tsukuyomi and the Regalia. As well as…” Arisu-san turned. “Our Princess and Akio-san… it seems the populace as a whole is supportive of your union…”

That’s not all… Adherence was starting to build, and while compared to the Tower it was still a pale shadow, it seemed that belief had rekindled in the hearts of many. Though, not everyone seems so pleased alas, even if this was the goal…

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