On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

As the scenes of chaos in the streets of Tokyo around the Palace were broadcast, the Emperor watched it with eyes filled with a sense of caution. He raised a hand, drawing attention, and Arisu-san switched the focus of the broadcast.

“It seems our esteemed Emperor is going to address the nation once more.” she intoned, and the Emperor nodded, casting a sidelong glance at me, where I still held Tsurugi blade down, a few faint sparks of rich, adherence-laced lightning element, fading away like fireflies, barely visible. The stage beneath me was rather charred, though it was hard to tell under the careful lighting of the broadcast bunker.

He then cleared his throat, before speaking. “I am delighted to see that you have braved the… sudden downpour… to pour out your love for this land and your Imperial Family. Please do put your health first, and be wary of winter colds, for they can be quite debilitating.” He paused, as if gathering his words, before he beckoned his son and Gorohito forwards. “If Princess Mikasa is the flame of faith that has been rekindled, proof of our legacy of Divinity made manifest, then… my son and grandson are the continuation of a line that has continued unbroken for nearly two thousand seven hundred years, since Emperor Jimmu. He was the great-grandson of Ninigi-no-Mikoto, who himself was the grandson of Amaterasu, the Sun that gives the land of Japan its name.”

As he paused, Arisu-san, with consummate professionalism, saw what he was aiming for and interjected. Her two co-anchors looked on, impressed that she would dare interrupt the Emperor’s flow, especially in the current chaotic situation. “Most thought Emperor Jimmu mere myth, but it seems that is surely not the case. And, if I am not mistaken… did not Ninigi-no-Mikoto bring the Regalia with him from Takamagahara, or the Plane of High Heaven, the Abode of the Gods… truly the Regalia are more impressive that even I believed possible. A true demonstration of the might of the Imperial Family…”

That’s… not exactly the right thing to say… I glanced at Arisu-san, and she merely met my gaze impassively, but I detected a slight satisfaction that only those who knew her well, like Shiro, might otherwise have detected. And there’s another inconsistency there. Not that they’d know, but when my Eyes looked at Magatama… well, I get that Arisu-san is trying to help me out, but…

“Yes…” the Emperor agreed after a moment. “In these troubled times, rest assured that we shall persist with what has kept Japan safe all these years and given us the longest unbroken Royal lineage in the entire world.” The Queen of the United Kingdom’s lips curled into a wry smile at that, while Eleanor, red-faced and still drinking, just appeared interested in the show that Tsurugi had put on, though she was gnawing at her lip, seemingly troubled too.

“It is the strength of the Japanese people, that our traditions and culture has continued, mediated by the Imperial Line. When such is broken, then troubled times are upon us. Our virtues are respect, hard work, self-sacrifice… after all, what is valour, but hard effort directed towards a righteous cause or battle? What is respect, but the wisdom to know what should be cherished and what should be detested, and what is self-sacrifice but benevolence towards something greater than ourselves, and towards others?”

I found myself nodding at how he tied the virtues of the Regalia to the current situation. “Just know… we understand your fears. And while we need continuity and stability more than ever, I also understand that… this is simply unprecedented. In the times of the first Emperor Jimmu, our great forefather, such matters were surely routine, the Gods walking among us, such as Ninigi-no-Mikoto himself. Yōkai roamed the lands, and the light of the Gods, the light of Amaterasu, was our protection. Times… have certainly changed. Yet the more things change, the more they stay the same.”

Gorohito held his back straight, looking directly at the cameras, as he addressed the crowd. “May grandfather reign long yet, and father after him, but… in these changing times, or perhaps regressing times, a fresh perspective is needed. I am young and inexperienced, but all my life I have studied hard to be the best successor I can be, and now… my efforts have all proved for this moment. Just as my sister, Princess Mikasa…” he glanced towards Yukiko, his face calm. “…is the Priestess of Ise, and servant of the Gods, I too shall be a servant, of the people and this land. A servant, and a protector…”

His expression was striking and well-practised, and I admired his poise and showmanship, suspecting that even for an ordinary human without any Classes, he probably had a few points in Majesty. “…just as grandfather says, in these times we need valour, wisdom and benevolence. My sister… is quite the benevolent woman…” He observed Magatama as she sat in her Regalia form around Yukiko’s neck. I felt my gaze go there was well, taking in the smooth curve and white skin, which quickly turned pink as Yukiko fidgeted under my hot gaze.  “…one needs to be, to hear the voice of the Goddess Amaterasu. For is not the sun the most benevolent of all, for without its warmth, all that remains is cold darkness?”

He nodded, satisfied at his words. His father and grandfather were looking on approvingly, waiting for his next utterances, while Japan, and indeed the world, watched. “Those of you shouting for a miracle, for the power of valour, know that I am not afraid! I shall not allow foreign threats to stride across our lands with impunity, harm our citizens, spit on our traditions, attacking our shrines, temples and schools!” He was warming to the stage, his voice resonant and strong.

Yukiko glanced at me, rolling her eyes, and I held in a chuckle, even as Ether Healing repaired the damage from the adherence-laced lightning Tsurugi had summoned. I tried to absorb the energy, kindling my heart and solar plexus Chakras, but the energy was insufficient, but it did give me some insights, and also a dangerous idea. A very dangerous idea.

But with enough adherence, it might be possible. But a test would be needed. Perhaps Yukiko…

“For we, the Imperial Family of this land, will no longer remain silent! Just as this… Pilgrimage…” He nodded to Arisu-san, as though she was in charge, which to the populace wasn’t entirely wrong, as she was the public face, doing all the broadcasting… “…shall spark a revival of genuine piety, not merely rote tradition and lip service to the Gods, which will surely make Japan stronger, and please our ancestors and the Gods…” He then turned to Hachiman, who had been watching silently since Tsurugi’s stunt with the storm and lightning. “Oh great Hachiman, our ancestor, if anyone can attest to the duties of the Imperial Family it would be you. Were you not both sword and shield to this land during your tenure, for which you were rewarded by becoming a Kami that watches over Japan, even to this day?”

Hachiman nodded, face still pale after his exertions earlier. “Indeed. We are a shield against all enemies, and a sword to cut down our foes. For those that would look enviously on our land are endless, and the truest duty of the Imperial line is to the people, for the people are this land. The people, the Gods and the land. Three duties, three Regalia. The Priestess of Ise keeps duty to the Gods…” He pointed his sceptre at Yukiko. “…but to the land and the people…”

“I shall wield the sword for you all!” Gorohito declared boldly. “My grandfather is yet hale and heartly, despite his advancing age, and father… father will support me. But I shall begin now and grow into a worthy successor! One who fears nothing, fears not to wield the sword, and take blows on the shield!”

The view of the feed from outside, where rain was still sheeting down around the Imperial Palace and the surrounding Chiyoda ward, was displaying an ever-increasing throng of people. Police were trying to keep order, but it was inevitable that feelings were running high, as essentially a miracle had been performed in front of their eyes.

I don’t like this, father… I feel… unhappy. Like… a weight pressing down on me. I’d forgotten it. Yata feels it too. She’s warning me… warning you…  Tsurugi let out a few pained whimpers in my mind, her hilt shivering in my grasp.

“The Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, the Grass-cutting Sword, will reap our enemies like a scythe reaps wheat!” he insisted. “Now…” He reached out a hand, and I paused, not sure just what he was driving at. “Akio, I thank you for bearing the sword to stand beside my sister, but… the future Emperor should certainly hold valour in his hands. You can support my sister, and I am grateful she has found a… fine… man to support her…” His words were outwardly kind and calm, but I could see bitterness glimmering in his eyes. “…but…” He addressed Japan through the broadcast. “…if you wish to see the Imperial Line bloom true, Ningen-sengen dismissed, our legacy retrieved… then offer up your hopes with all your might, for… just as the Kami deserve your worship, so too do we, and with your prayers, we shall protect you!”

No, this… this hurts, father! I… I…

“Gorohito, you’ve gone too far!” Yukiko hissed, her hand clutching Magatama. “You know that Tsurugi isn’t willing…”

As he raised a hand regally, the rest of the family looking on with mixed emotions, Gorohito shielded his mouth, whispering back. “…a sword is a tool, sister. And the agreement was that I would get one of the Regalia. The sword… is more fitting. Besides… the people demand it. I am only answering that demand. And you…” he glanced at me. “…I am very generous in allowing you the Yata no Kagami as a loan, though it should pass to my descendants in time, as will the Yasakani no Magatama. The direct Imperial Line is their owners, Divinely appointed…”

“I’m disgusted in you right now, brother…” Yukiko was incensed, as furious as I’d ever seen her, but he merely smiled regally.

“We are broadcasting to the nation now, sister. Don’t ruin the reputation you’ve just built, or damage Akio’s. As his wife, you should protect his image. A small sacrifice, and one I will honour you for, and…”

“No!” A great cry rang out, and Tsurugi transformed into her Tsukumogami, one hand clasped in mine, though despite herself she was reaching out for Gorohito with the other, and my Eyes could see a tide of adherence gathering, affecting all three of the Regalia. Of course, he’s manipulating the centuries old belief that the Regalia can only be used by the Imperial Family. But…

Tears were sliding gown Tsurugi’s cheeks as she struggled. “I don’t want this! I want father! But… Yata, Magatama, help me!”

Moments later, the golden-eyed and platinum haired Yata was there, the mirror having vanished. With a great effort, she called out to Magatama, who also transformed, drawing gasps from the crowds outside. Arisu-san was merely watching with interest, looking at me as if to question how I would handle this situation without causing a rift between me and Yukiko’s family. It’d be so much easier if I could punch him in the face, but…

“I see little benevolence here.” Magatama declared. “Though I feel the pull too, fortunately…” She glanced at Yukiko. “…I remain in Imperial hands. We are tools, yes…” She glanced at Hachiman. “But you are a warrior, noble Kami, could you treat your sword, your precious partner, so?”

“A weapon is merely a tool.” Gorohito insisted. At that, his father and grandfather looked uncomfortable, and clearly wanted to speak up, but Arisu-san was making sure to focus on our argument, and the screens were displaying a stunning yet cruel image of me, Gorohito, and Tsurugi, torn between us, her expression pained, weeping.

“A gun can be replaced, and nobody cries over spent bullets. And yes, you seem to be a Tsukumogami too, but your spirit was granted by the long use, care and love of the Imperial Family, and worship of the people.” His tone was reasonable, as if his words were common sense. “Even now, the people know that you should be in our hands. After all, your existence is thanks to us. Now don’t cry…” he soothed, as if talking to a child. “…you might be attached to Akio now, but what do you know about him? All he did was wake you up, but…”

“You have not answered my question.” Magatama insisted, and there was hostility in her black-eyed gaze now as she glanced at Hachiman. “Do you approve of this… this…”

“It is true that you are bound to the Imperial bloodline…” Hachiman managed after a pause. “I know the reasons for it, though… those ties frayed and were scattered, but… just as a broken bow can be restrung, or a shattered sword reforged…”

“There is no wisdom here either.” Yata’s tone was frozen. She too was trembling with the effort of standing firm. “Shall I illuminate you all?”

Arisu-san’s smile was now somehow wicked. From the angle of the viewing audience, she looked composed, but in my line of sight she was knowing, almost mocking. She hates disloyalty and betrayal. And… I do too. Tsurugi isn’t a slave to adherence. She… called me father. I can’t abandon her now.

“That would be fascinating!” Arisu-san spoke up. “Hearing from the perspective of a legendary treasure such as the Yata no Kagami would be of great interest to the people. What must you have seen, over the long years, and what light must you have reflected? The wise and the benevolent, the foolish and the petty alike, I do expect.”

“Yes.” Yata spoke before Gorohito or anyone else could. “I have seen much, though much is lost to me.” She tilted her head, a little puzzled. “Do you intend to let her suffer so?” She gestured to Tsurugi, and I nodded, scooping her up in my arms. She struggled, despite not waiting to, and I glowered at Gorohito.

“You might think you are doing the right thing, but… let me tell you this.” I made sure to radiate all my Majesty. “If you weren’t soon to be my brother-in-law, I’d knock you on your ass right now.” I patted Tsurugi’s head gently. “If the Regalia are your family’s precious treasures, then treasure them, and their feelings.”

“I’m right there with him.” Yukiko agreed, arms crossed angrily. “I’m not even irritated that you tried to take a Regalia despite them rejecting our family…”

“You can’t say that on air…” her father hissed, but Yukiko waved that off.

“Can’t I? I just did. I’ll be blunt…” Yukiko addressed the watching public. “And much as it ashamed me to admit it… we killed the regalia. Ningen-sengen did. I feel blessed indeed that Magatama is benevolent enough to forgive me and let me wear her.” She nodded at the jade-haired woman. “And that Yata has the wisdom to not reject me outright.”

“Me too!” Tsurugi insisted. “I’m valorous! I’ll fight to stay with father!” Her tears shone, and outside, the crowd had quietened down, and even as the rain continued to sheet down, leaving the onlookers soaked to the skin, they watched their phones, unable to look away. “I don’t like you! None of you!” Tsurugi cried, before flushing and glancing shyly at Yukiko. “Sorry! I like you, first mother! I forgive you!”

“You forgive me?” Yukiko let out a quiet laugh. “I’m grateful. While neither I nor my brother can be held at fault for the Ningen-sengen…” She glowered at Hachiman now. “…as protecter of the Imperial lineage, tell me this, oh great Kami…” Seems like she’s not overly fond of Hachiman right now. And I get it. I’m getting the urge to see if a God-killer Class really exists… That bitter thought was mostly a joke, mostly.

“…we share the prestige and power of our bloodline, the glory of our many triumphs, but we also share responsibility for the failures of our ancestors, of great-grandfather, don’t we?”

Hachiman let out a bitter sigh, drawing his own sword. With a wry smile he offered it to Gorohito. “Your sister is rather impudent. In my day, none would have spoken to the Gods in such a manner. But… she is not wrong. If you wish to defend Japan, take up my blade, for it is an honourable sword.” I knew it would vanish with him, most likely, when Nie Ling’s power expired, but it would certainly help Gorohito save face, and he knew it. Falling to his knees, he accepted it.

“Oh noble Hachiman, I indeed pledge to defend Japan with valour! With wisdom…” Yata rolled her golden eyes. “…and with benevolence.” Gorohito then glanced at Tsurugi in my arms. “I am sorry you dislike us so strongly, but… you are a sword. Has your wielder never lost a battle?”

“I’ll never lose again, not with father!” she insisted, and Yata spoke up.

“Now is the time for our story.” Yata declared. “I feel the weight of uncounted millions watching, listening. So, let me illuminate you with wisdom and truth. For a mirror reflects only what is true, falsehoods can stand no scrutiny under the light.” She crossed her arms, her expression cold.

“I shall not speak of the legends…” She glanced at Hachiman, who frowned, though he quickly smoothed out his expression. “…only… that yes, we have served, been bound to the Imperial bloodline longer than we were ourselves. They say a spirit kindles after a hundred years of use, but… that is not entirely true. A spirit kindles when the weight and depth of use, the feelings invested, spark into being. We were born and grateful to serve, and the chains of belief, of expectations, bound us… but there is happiness in servitude, if the masters are worthy.”

“I hate you! I like father!” Tsurugi muttered, and Gorohito’s eyebrow twitched with the effort of keeping a composed face.

“But as all know, while belief endures, the other strength that us creations of spirit require was draining from the world, like water soaked up by thirsting sands. We grew weaker, slept more, but we endured, fed and nurtured by belief and the love the Imperial Family had for us. You were perhaps our parents then, as Ame-no-Murakumo-no-Tsurugi might have said.”

“No! Our only father is father! You agree, don’t you Yata? I know you do!”

“As it happens… yes. For we died!” Yata declared to the world. “We do not die as you beings of flesh do. For our physical forms are as you see. Sword, Mirror and Jewel. They remain. But… what makes us our own selves, the spirit… the agglomeration of memory, thoughts, dreams and wishes… it perished, for we were sustained only by belief, and… such belief was shorn from us. And when one removes the sun, only cold, bitter darkness remains.”

“Ningen-sengen…” Yukiko muttered sadly, and Yata nodded.

“Indeed. We have only just heard of this. You broke not just your covenant with the Gods, with Amaterasu, but your bonds with us. Bonds…” Yata’s golden eyes were mysterious, reflecting the light within the broadcasting bunker into small rainbows. “…our material selves yet endured, fragments of our dead spirit lingering, but…”

“Akio was able to restore you, work a miracle.” Yukiko declared to the world. “He is your saviour. And thus…” She smiled warmly at Tsurugi. “I get why you think only Akio is fit to wield you. I… honestly feel the same way!” She addressed the watching Japan. We had gone wildly off-script now, but Gorohito had started this chain reaction. If he had just left Tsurugi alone none of this would have come to pass.

“Honestly… where do I begin?” Yukiko chuckled, embarrassed. “I can only tell you that when I needed a miracle, Akio was there for me. And… here’s the thing. The Regalia are only to be wielded by the Imperial bloodline, that’s true. But… are they truly the Regalia they were before? After all…” She reached out a hand, Magatama took it, and vanished, and a glittering magatama bead of a jade-like green crystal was in her hand, diamond chain sparkling. “She doesn’t even look like she used to, and I know, as I’ve seen the Regalia a number of times. Yata is the same. After all, she was kept at Ise.”

The golden-eyed Tsukumogami nodded, letting Yukiko speak. My Eyes could see the adherence around us growing in intensity, and also changing, the flavour slightly different.

“We have a watching guest…” Yukiko nodded at the observing Eleanor, who twitched, embarrassed at drawing attention.

“Yes?” she managed, putting down her glass and trying to appear composed, as Arisu-san flipped the feed.

“Princess Eleanor, you studied the Classics at university, didn’t you?” At Eleanor’s nod, Yukiko spoke. “I assume you are aware of the ship of Theseus?”

“Of course…” Eleanor managed. “That if every part of something is replaced over time, is it still the same as it was before, or something new? Though in this case…” She narrowed her blue eyes pensively. “…it doesn’t apply. They died or were at best in a slumber they could never wake from. Yet Akio woke them. I had no doubts he would.”

Arisu-san was translating for the watching Japanese public, her two co-anchors doing the best they could to keep up with the changing situation.

“Exactly. Yata, do you feel you are the same as you were before, bound to serve our family?” Yukiko asked, and Yata shook her head.

“The weight of expectations is heavy. I implore those of you who sees our reflected light… free us. Give us our own choices. For… we have been reborn.”

“Yes! I want to stay with father!” Tsurugi shouted. “So many things to cut! Gather the clouds…”

A voice came from Magatama. “I too… wish to see this new world. But fear not… just as I am benevolent, so too… is our father.” Back to calling me father again, I see…

“They are right.” Yukiko rested a hand on mine fondly, a blush in her cheeks. “I surprise myself. I don’t even know why I fell so hard for you. But… you won’t abandon my family, will you? Not even ungrateful brothers?”

I glowered at Gorohito, who kept his own face impassive. “No, though I’m not impressed. I have a younger sister myself, you know? And it’s the job of an older brother to make sure his sister is happy.”

“I’m not happy!” Yukiko agreed. “Oh, don’t get me wrong. I’m happy with you…” she promised the watching world. “…I mean, how can I complain? But… I’m frustrated. Maybe I’ll just renounce my titles as Princess Mikasa and the Shrine Maiden of Ise, and just move in with you.”

“No, please don’t do that, cousin!” Kaoruko-san cried out, suddenly white-faced. “There’s no way I can take on the responsibility of being the Priestess, especially not now!” She turned to me then. “Please, talk some sense into her! She’ll regret it if she leaves!”

“Oh, I don’t know. I’d say it’s a net benefit for me if she does. I’d get to see her a lot more.” I chuckled, and Yukiko leaned in on me, well pleased by my teasing.

“You want to make a statement, right?” I used wind element to project my voice near-silently to her ear, and she nodded. “And you don’t want to embarrass you family, not even your brother?” She nodded again, though slower this time. “And you trust me?” This nod was emphatic. “Great then. Tsurugi, I’ll need your help. Yata and Magatama too.”

“I’m happy you like my cousin, and I’m delighted you’re joining our family…” Kaoruko-san spoke desperately. “But… there’s no need for haste.”

“Indeed.” The Emperor declared. “My grandson meant well, though I shall scold him later.” He looked at Tsurugi then, who hissed at him, her blue and white side ponytail almost standing upright, like the tail of an angry cat. “I apologise. This is a time for hard truths. My father… while he had little choice, we did repudiate our lineage. But in our defence, we had no idea the effect that would have on you.”

“You still broke us!” Tsurugi accused. “But father’s hands are warm, and his thoughts are kind!” Lightning flashed overhead again on the monitors, the crowd crying out in awe. “I’m his sword, the only one father will ever need! I got rid of that nasty old sword, crunched it all up!”

“It’s true.” Yukiko chuckled. “If you tried to take Tsurugi, brother, you’d have to compensate Akio for the loss of his own sword then. Just how much would it cost, I wonder? A priceless weapon, one of a kind. I doubt you can afford it.”

“We agreed that you would be allowed to wield one of the Regalia. Do forgive my grandson for his… exuberance. He is certainly eager to fulfil his duties and was perhaps overzealous. The sword… well, he is a young man, and in times of strife, the urge to fight for one’s land is a powerful thing you have felt yourself, no?”

“There’s being overzealous and being wrong.” I insisted. “I won’t tolerate anyone who treats living beings as mere tools.” I patted Tsurugi’s head. “Let me be plain. I’ll marry Yukiko, not to be a part of the Imperial Family, but because… she’s Yukiko! I want to keep her safe, spend my life with her. Not just her, of course… sadly, you’re all well aware of my tangled love life…” I chuckled bitterly, and Arisu-san smirked.

“Indeed I am. And so is our watching audience. But at least you are honest. I cannot abide liars and those who renege on agreements.” Her words stung Gorohito, who apologised.

“Grandfather is right.” He nodded slowly. “And I was going to leave you the Yata no Kagami, as we agreed. But the Grass-cutting sword is impressive indeed… to let her sit in other hands troubled me.” He admitted, and I could see jealousy there. Well it’s true. He saw what Tsurugi was capable of, and avarice captured him…

“I am not some thing, to be passed around.” Yata declared. “I was, we were, but… the final act of my tale, let the light shine on the truth. We were not as… independent… before, I think. Memories are fragmented, lost to cold darkness, but… when our creator, our father, gave us life anew, he wove much of himself into us. Not to dominate, to control, but to… connect. Just as light connects us all. for without light, we cannot see.”

“His heart is benevolent.” Magatama insisted. “He felt sorry, seeing us perished, and wished us to live. But not as mere tools. And the bloodline yet burns…” She glowed in Yukiko’s hand. “We have not rejected the Imperial Family, nor Amaterasu, we simply…”

“Love father more!” Tsurugi insisted! “I can’t wait to see the other mothers, to play outside, to cut the storms and slice all enemies! Before… I don’t remember much, but… I cut where I was told to cut. Now… I want to find things to cut together!” Like an eager child she gushed. “Father could have made us serve, but… father wants us to be free!”

“And so… we implore you all. Do not bind us with chains of belief!” Yata cried. “When this land is in peril, we shall defend it as we were born to do, but let us do it through… choice… not through the ties of the past. Believe in this family…” She nodded at the Emperor, his son and then at Gorohito, though that bow was far shallower. “…for they speak true. They have a responsibility to this land, and to Amaterasu. But… they also have their failings. They failed us. And now to make amends…”

“…with benevolence, let us go!” Magatama insisted.

“Sister. Yukiko…” Gorohito used her actual name. “…I apologise.”

“Just to me?” She raised an eyebrow, and he shook his head.

“Of course not. But I thought that Akio would appreciate my words of contrition to you first, considering his earlier expression of what a brother’s role should be.” He reached out a hand to me. “I apologise to you too. I… when I saw just what the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi could do, I felt a sense of desire, I needed to possess her. I… acted in a manner ill-befitting a member of the Imperial Family, and… a future brother-in-law.”

“So, you accept him?” Yukiko asked, and he put on a rueful grin. It seemed a little forced, but I understood why.

“It is rather hard not to.” He chuckled. “If I don’t, you’ll make good on your threat, won’t you? Cousin Kaoruko would curse me if I chased you away.”

“I would!” she agreed. “I’m shaking at the thought of having to confront what my cousin does! You’re the same, aren’t you Hodahito? Isn’t it great being the side branch about now?”

Hodahito merely nodded, keeping a wise silence.

“I apologise to you too…” Gorohito addressed Tsurugi. “But… to the Imperial Family, you were always our sword.”

I don’t like him father! He’s mean and slimy!

Maybe so, but he’s apologising, so be nice.

Tsurugi puffed out her cheeks in a pout. “Fine then. Just… don’t be mean to father! Not that you can be, he’s father, and you’re just…” She shook her head, still angry. “…just someone we used to know!”

Gorohito paused at that rather cold description of his family, but his smile didn’t falter. “I apologise to you as well.” He addressed Yata, before glancing at Magatama, still in her Jewel form. “And you too, though… speaking to a necklace seems a bit odd.”

As they grudgingly accepted his words, he then turned to Hachiman. “I thank you for the sword, and your wisdom. I nearly let my greed overcome my good sense.” He chuckled self-deprecatingly. “Besides… while I indeed will one day be an Emperor that all can be proud of, I perhaps am not as skilled with the sword as my brother-in-law here. But then, an Emperor needs to be more than just a warrior today. Times have changed.” He held the sword out to Hachiman, who took it back, before handing him the sceptre.

Taking it, Gorohito raised it high. “No, I shall take this path. Just as my sister carries our prayers to the Gods, and Akio wields the sword to cut our enemies… I shall oversee with justice, and support grandfather and father, until I too am called upon!”

“Powerful words.” Arisu-san spoke to the audience, and she then asked if we had any final words, and I nodded to Yukiko, who smiled, worried but determined.

“Yes.” Yukiko spoke. “Our… little squabble… was undignified, and I feel rather ashamed. But it did show you all how serious Akio and I are about the Regalia. They are not just the symbols of Imperial authority, but… precious to us.” She smiled warmly, hand closing around Magatama. “Strange how that happens so quickly. Maybe it’s because I feel guilt for how my family misused them, or maybe… it’s hard to hate anyone that sees the man I love as their father.” She giggled then. “But… I ask you all, here and now… imagine them as free, and… we will show you the power of that freedom, and… the power that Akio and I can wield together with them, power that will protect you all, no matter what disasters befall us!”

With that, I began to pour out my light element. Yata stepped into the path of the light, and she shone a brilliant platinum, the light intensifying. She then focussed the energy into a single beam, which struck Magatama. She lit up, amplifying it.

This is going to be wonderful, father! Yata and Magatama are happy to help you and first mother! And… the chains of expectation, they are weakening. I’ll cut through them all, and… I only want your bonds, father, for they are kind! Not chains, but… soft, warm…

Don’t worry. And this is also practise, because… you can cut lightning, right?

Yes, I can always cut the storms! she promised.

Good. But… I want the adherence of a nation directed to a different end…

A brilliant nova of sunlight erupted around Yukiko, and she drank in the intensified energies, boosted by both Yata and Magatama. She pointed at me, before winking at her cousin. “It’ll be rough for you, having to learn this as the Priestess of Ise, but… do your best!”

As her cousin cried at her to stop teasing her, Yukiko unleashed a brilliant surge of Amaterasu’s Sun, and my Prominence Dusk drank it in. It was hard to hold and absorb, and I strained to do so, but it was all swallowed, the fringe of light shining vibrantly. I then was holding Tsurugi in her sword form, and her voice rang out.

“The storm… that afflicts the land… I gather, and I cut! Behind the clouds… lies the… Sun!”

There was surge of sparks of vivid violet, as the energy discharged from my Prominence Dusk was moved by Tsurugi, in a manner similar to the lightning from earlier. For a brief moment I had a worry this would tear the Boundary open, but actually, it wasn’t as powerful as it appeared, mostly being fuelled by adherence from the watching public.

“Cut!” Tsurugi cried, while Yata cried “Reveal!” and Magatama “Bloom!”

Moments later, there was a shockwave, and the watching crowd on the monitors were buffeted by a breeze, coats flapping, umbrellas blown away. The clouds parted, as if cut by a knife, the summoned, localised storm dispersing instantly, and behind the dark clouds was the dark evening sky, moon shining silver, and… a fireball bloomed, the light energy converted to flame by Yukiko, then that turned into an explosion by my Prominence Dusk. Ordinary flame would have been dyed black and would be useless for this, but Yukiko’s flame was special, and so for an instant, the darkness around the Palace was banished by a momentary surge of golden-violet light, the crowd looking on in awe, before in a shower of violet sparks, the energy was spent, leaving behind a calm night sky, the storm vanquished.

“That was… fun, father!” Tsurugi returned to her human form, before snuggling into my arms and beginning to fall asleep. “…but… I’m tired now.” Her eyes slid shut. “…father. I’m… happy… I…. can…”

“That was… quite the statement.” Arisu-san decided it was time to close down the broadcast. “The Imperial Family carries Divine heritage, as evidenced by Princess Mikasa herself, who is to marry the Hero of Britain, Oshiro Moonstone Akio. The Gods walk among us, and the Regalia are no longer mere Imperial relics, but living beings, much like you or I, who desire freedom to be with those they cherish. A worthy goal, which I am sure everyone will support wholeheartedly. First comes the storm, then the sun which banishes it! Amaterasu looks down upon us today and offers her blessing!”

***

As the broadcast shut off, I glanced over at Yukiko, whose expression had shifted to one of great annoyance. She faced her brother, her dark eyes hard, and angrily confronted him. “Gorohito, you… you… I’m so angry right now.” She clenched one fist, and probably would have punched him if I hadn’t intervened. Seeing that, their parents widened their eyes in shock.

“Yukiko…” her mother exclaimed. “You shouldn’t be so unladylike! To think you’d shout at your brother…”

“Shout?” She took a deep breath, furious. “He’s lucky I don’t knock out his teeth! What sort of stunt was that? Trying to take Tsurugi from Akio in front of the watching world? Were you hoping he wouldn’t refuse for fear of offending you and the watching public? If so, you’re an idiot!” The words came tumbling out of her. “He’ll not hesitate to make enemies of anyone to protect those he cares about. And Tsurugi, she calls him father! If it comes down to you or him, he’ll choose her in a heartbeat! Besides…” Her tone was scornful. “It’s all very well talking about valour, brother, but if you’d faced even a thousandth of the battles Akio has, the foes he’s faced, you’d soil yourself and cry!”

“There is no need for this…” her father began, but Yukiko rounded on him next, her expression bitter.

“No need? You are disrespecting my fiancé in front of me, in front of the entire country, and you expect me to just smile and nod? I’m not putting up with it! I was the one who Amaterasu chose. I hated that to start, but…” She glanced at me, her fury dying down for a moment, before it reignited as she addressed her family. “…now I know why. I believed in Fate, in the Destined and the Definite, but what matters is… taking our futures in our own hands. Yes, our bloodline is blessed by the Gods… even Hachiman confirms it…” She glanced over at him, and I didn’t fail to notice her tone wasn’t exactly respectful. “…but if Amaterasu thought you better qualified, brother, then she’d have chosen you! So I think I’m more qualified to speak than anyone here!”

“If I may…” Hachiman interjected, and at her glare he paused for a moment, moderating his tone. “Please leash your disquiet. I must speak on an important matter, before… my strength is spent.” Indeed, it seemed that Nie Ling’s ability was unravelling. “Your actions were… impressive.” he told us. “Your… command of the belief of the people was… technically skilled. However, it was foolish. The fragile shell that divides this world from… elsewhere… can hardly sustain such shocks. Already it thins, far more than it should. Displaying such strength here will only hasten its demise, or with… ill-fortune…” His voice was fading as he became transparent. “…crack. The consequences…”

“Actually, it was a measured risk.” I promised. “The amount of actual power used wasn’t as great as you think.” Instead, it was mostly releasing what Tsurugi had already did, coupled by a flashy burst of sound and fury. “But… I’ll bear that in mind.” My tone took on an edge of guilt, as what I had planned would certainly pose somewhat of a risk, but I wasn’t going to take things slow. Our enemies were already out there, and I wanted the strength, for myself and everyone else, to ensure that we were never caught unprepared again.

Hachiman managed a nod, and I promised I’d come see him in Kyoto soon. With that, he vanished, the sceptre disappearing with him, much to Gorohito’s disappointment. Seeing that, I held in a grin. I can’t say I’ve warmed to you much, but… “If you want a ceremonial sceptre modelled on Hachiman’s, for the political capital, I can certainly get my artisans to make one that will look the same and remain in the Material.”

“See?” Yukiko smirked triumphantly. “Akio’s kind. He even offers a favour despite you being utterly shitty! If he tells me he’s done with you, I’m not joking, I’m going to leave!”

“Please don’t!” Kaoruko-san was teary-eyed and clutched her arm. “I don’t want you to go!”

“You just don’t want to have to take over from me!” Yukiko rolled her eyes. “But… at least you and cousin Hodahito have shown Akio proper respect. So even if I do go, I’ll make sure that you don’t have to take over from me…”

“What of the warning that there must always be a Priestess of Ise…” the Emperor began, but Yukiko’s words cut him off.

“Prophecies are only guidelines. If we don’t want chaos and disaster, then we simply have to get strong enough to defeat it and protect ourselves. Isn’t that right, Akio?” She looked at me with warm eyes and I nodded, feeling the weight of Tsurugi still asleep in my arms. The Regalia… sure, it hurts to lose Storming Moonlight, that sword’s been with me through many hard battles, but… I doubt it can measure up to a genuinely Mythic weapon. Though even if it could, now I could never lay her aside… Smiling gently at her in my arms, I idly wondered if she would let me use other melee weapons like spears or axes…

“Should be we be witnessing this?” one of the co-hosts on the broadcast asked Arisu-san, who shrugged, suddenly weary.

“It is hardly unusual for Akio-san, I fear. Though for once it is not him making a scene. You get used to it.” She narrowed her gaze then, her black eyes cold, and for a moment I thought she would play a very good role as an evil Disney sorceress. “Of course, I would suggest you keep in mind the penalties for being indiscreet with what we see behind the scenes. I may be an actor, but tonight I am a journalist, the same as you all.” She extended her glare to the technical staff who were packing up the broadcasting gear. “Worse… do you wish to provoke the ire of those who can cut lightning and summon the sun?”

The staff all looked at us for a moment, frozen, before shaking their heads, and Arisu-san nodded, satisfied, before addressing me. “It has been a long day. I shall wait for you outside. I trust we will be finishing the remainder of the day’s Pilgrimage together?”

I nodded. “Yes. We’ve got to catch up since all this took longer than planned. Although… it was certainly worth it. But I hope I can count on you later tonight? I’ve got some experiments to run and training to do, with which I’d like your assistance. Of course, I’m expecting you to benefit as well.”

“It seems I must. Besides, I wish to speak to White further. She has a lot of interesting… concerns… about Red. At least we are close enough to your Territory I do not have to strain myself with my Room. Small mercies.”

“Great.” I managed, unable to help but wonder just how that conversation would go. Yukiko then spoke up, placing a hand on my arm casually yet intimately.

“I’m looking forward to joining in the gatherings in the Astral as well. I’ve been able to attend so few, I’ve always been busy at Ise, or… never felt like I was allowed, like I belonged there.” She smiled at her family then, and Gorohito breathed a sigh of relief. Seeing that, Yukiko narrowed her eyes. “Don’t think this is over. I’m still furious. I understand why you are upset. That goes for you too, grandfather, father.” She spoke to her male relatives. “The Regalia is traditionally yours, and… it’ll certainly be challenging to hold the Enthronement without them…”

“I shall still do my part.” Yata promised. “I am not so petty as to refuse.”

“I too.” Magatama agreed. “But…” Even in her Jewel form, I could tell her attention was on the softly snoring Tsurugi.

“I won’t force her. If necessary, I’ll have a replica made.” I suggested. “She’s… certainly the most childish out of you three.” I observed, and Yata nodded, her golden eyes kind.

“Indeed. For her role is the cruellest. I reflect truth and bring wisdom. Whereas Yasakani no Magatama absorbs and radiates power. Whereas she… she must face danger and destroy all enemies that threaten the Imperial lineage. It is…” She reached out, softly rearranging Tsurugi’s blue and white braid. “…a task that is harsh on the spirit. So she was more fragile than us, and more broken by the theft of the sun. It is… a miracle stacked on a miracle that she is as whole as she is now. Though she has regressed to the mind of a child.”

“We… did not know.” The Emperor whispered. “Father had no choice…”

“There is always a choice.” Yata shook her head. “Death before dishonour, no?”

“You weren’t there.” Gorohito insisted, defending his grandfather. “The destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the terrible might of the atomic bombs. And they had already razed much of Tokyo with their ordinary bombs. If we did nothing… Japan would have fallen, the populace slain…”

“It is fine.” The Emperor raised a hand. “I know you are passionate about our past mistakes, grandson. But…” He narrowed his eyes as he beheld Yata. “You are the mirror of wisdom. If I understand… you are saying that it is not the defeat, but… that father chose surrender and the Ningen-sengen over death with honour, and retaining our lineage? It… would hardly have worked. Then I would have been tasked by the Americans to sign the Declaration.”

“Not so.” Yukiko understood. “Just like our soldiers, we could have fought until the very end, heedless of our own deaths.”

“We cannot, we have to protect our bloodline!” Gorohito insisted.

“Yes, but… until Yukiko here…” Kaoruko-san pointed out. “…we thought it a myth ourselves. Besides, your father isn’t the only son of the Emperor. There’s my father, and also another branch descended from great-grandfather. We could have hidden away heirs. I mean…” She snorted, amused, winking at Yukiko. “What even is the ‘direct line of succession’? If it’s an unbroken line to a previous Emperor, there’s a fair few more members of the Imperial Family than one would think.”

“It is a harsh choice, and one I am glad I never had to make myself.” the Emperor agreed. “But, Yata no Kagami, even father, his faith was dwindling. After all, even the Imperial Onmyōdō Bureau were barely able to do more than a few tricks. We had historical records of your existence… and even if we took that seriously, we had no idea the Ningen-sengen would cause you such harm…”

“But it did.” Yata declared coolly. “And in wisdom I advise you, release us, and we shall do our part when needed. But… we have just been born. And we seek… to explore our new world. Though our obligations still bind us.” She shuddered. “Yet, it changes. The tides of belief shift slowly, but… one by one, the shackles loosen. Fortunately…” She glanced at Yukiko. “…we have a path to feeling comfortable within our bindings.”

“Of course.” Yukiko placed Magatama around her neck again. “You’re always welcome to stick with me. And my line of descent is true.” She smiled sympathetically. “You look tired. Do you want to change back into the Mirror and I’ll carry you? As Akio has his hands full.”

“No.” Yata shook her head. “I am not as weary as I was. As the tides shift, so too do I feel faint strength. This land… has many, many people. And their wisdom… it has changed.” She raised one platinum eyebrow. “I am curious to know how the average person has become so knowledgeable.”

“Universal education and technology.” I pointed out. “Basically, the sum knowledge of humanity is available for anyone to access at any time. Though, honestly there’s a lot of misinformation and outright garbage out there. But in general, people know a lot more, and… there’s not much call for a great deal of poorly educated people to work. Even a shop worker or a cleaner is probably as well educated as someone going to university a hundred or so years ago, perhaps not in a specialised field, but overall… I mean, isn’t it said that high school mathematics and science classes today exceed the level taught in the past to scholars?”

“I see.” Yata considered that. “How fascinating. I would like to see this knowledge.”

“Sure. I’ll teach you how to use my smartphone…” Yukiko volunteered. Gorohito, who had been left behind by the conversation, raised his voice a little.

 “Are we… done?” he asked, and Yukiko looked at me. I gave a slight shrug, and she nodded.

“I think so. For the sake of our parents, and for Kaoruko’s peace of mind. However…” She narrowed her eyes dangerously. “If I hear any disrespect towards Akio in the future, I won’t stand by idly. Am I clear?”

“Crystal.” Her mother chuckled with good humour. She surprised her daughter by giving her a hug. “I’m relieved. I didn’t know what to think when you asked for a man so famous, not just for his heroics, but also his tangled love life, as your husband. But… it seems you two are well suited for each other.”

“I should think so.” She squirmed, embarrassed. “I wouldn’t have agreed to it otherwise.” She glanced at me then. “I wouldn’t have been able to push myself in alongside Tsukiko if I wasn’t serious. I couldn’t do that to her. Or myself. I get that there are benefits for us, and for Japan… though there’ll be none if you keep annoying us!” she warned. “But benefits are secondary to a genuine, heartfelt connection, isn’t that right?”

Connections, huh? As Arisu-san waited patiently, a small smile on her face, I considered that. With Tsurugi in my arms, Yukiko here beside me, Yata and Magatama too, and no end of precious friends, family and lovers waiting for us at the end of the days’ Pilgrimage, as well as the strange, almost tangible sensation of adherence I could feel around me, after our feats here in front of Japan and the world, I nodded. “Yes, you’re right.” I bowed to her family. “So, if you’ll forgive me, I’ll be taking Yukiko away now.”

“Don’t hurry back…” Kaoruko-san smiled cheekily, and as Yukiko blushed, I nodded.

“Don’t worry, I always take my time to do things properly…”

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