On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

Fujiwara Miyu

When it comes down to it, I am still rather too cowardly… Miyu let out a quiet sigh, fan held up to cover her mouth elegantly. I wish Michiru was here, but I daresay she is having trouble with her own father. He can be… intense. Yet knowing Michiru as I do…

Her hidden lips curled up into a smile. Unlike Miyu, who was still struggling to articulate her decision, Michiru would surely have declared it boldly to her father, driving him into despair, as he doted on his daughter almost as much as Akio spoils his sister. Almost. Poor Koga-san…

Shaking off that feeling, Miyu left her room, heading through the large mansion in Azabu where her grandfather lived, which had become her home over the last few months. Having made up her mind, she was no longer going to let her nerves get the best of her. However, as she passed a room, the door opened and out stepped a familiar man. On seeing Miyu, he frowned, an expression of surprise on his face, only for him to smooth down his countenance and speak jovially.

“Miyu, you look… very good this morning. Is it for the ceremony at the Tengokusentou later?”

“Yes, father. And also no.” Miyu answered, trying, but not entirely sure she succeeded, in keeping the exasperation out of her tone. Kazuhito-san… oh, I supposeit shows how strained our relationship is, if I think of him with such distant formality… frowned, though his words were soft and non-judgemental.

“I don’t quite understand. Though I’ll be attending too, in my capacity within MEXT. I believe it is going to be… quite the spectacle.”

Miyu nodded. I suppose… I should reach out a hand. Family… is important. I see that now. “More than you imagine, father. Even the old master of Mount Fuji will be in attendance. The Maker of Mountains. It is fortunate that the new annex to the Tengokusentou is built like a temple, on a rather impressive scale. Else even in his smaller state he would not fit comfortably.” It also required the aid of Fae craftsmen working with we humans to finish such a structure on short notice, though I believe some of the internal decorating will be completed later. Still, the pomp and ceremony should distract from such trifling issues.

“I see. I had heard many Yōkai would be present.” he let out a dry chuckle. “It isn’t like you to speak at length to me. Though I’m certainly pleased.”

“As am I.” a fresh voice joined the conversation. Miyu had sensed her coming, of course, with her Statistics it was impossible not to, but she had feigned normalcy. Turning, Miyu lowered her fan and managed a smile rather more welcoming than she had offered her father, though it was still oddly reserved.

“Mother. Good morning.” Miyu nodded a greeting, and her mother, Fusako, also wearing a formal kimono, in pink with yellow fukujusou flowers, fitting the season, returned it, though there was a faint expression of surprise on her elegant features.

I never really worried about such, but if I grow old gracefully like my mother, I shall be content. With her black hair possessing just a few steaks of a lighter shade, not grey, but perhaps the first hints of it, pulled into an elegant ponytail, and her black eyes, so similar to Miyu’s, she was still a beautiful woman. I wonder if Akio and Michiru will still find me so attractive in twenty years… no, why stop at twenty?

“And a wonderful morning to you, Miyu. And to you, Kazuhito.” She extended her warmth to Miyu’s father. “It is a little… unusual… to see you conversing peacefully. Or indeed, at all.”

Miyu’s smile faltered for a second, before she decided to be truthful. “I… am trying to change. As, it seems, is father. Perhaps it is too late to be the sort of family others have, but… I find myself desiring it. And I know relationships can change for the better.” After all, Akio was not close to his father at all, but… they have mended much of the misunderstandings and misplaced expectations between them. Though of course, any father who does not recognise Akio’s excellence is a fool, and I do not think Akio could have been raised by such…

“That is… quite the smile, Miyu.” her mother observed. “Are you thinking about someone?”

Miyu realised her face was a little hot, but unwilling to lie, she merely made up her mind. I was going to speak to grandfather, but my words would not come out. Though I have my suspicions he is at least aware… it is very hard to fool him… “Mother, father…” she bobbed her head. “…I need to speak to grandfather. Would… would you come with me?”

“Of course.” Kazuhito-san spoke up quickly, but her mother gave her quite the searching glance for a moment, before nodding.

“Of course. It is rare for you to ask a favour of us, and more so for you to include your father. Perhaps you are growing up, Miyu?”

“I suppose so.” she conceded. “We cannot all stay ignorant forever.” I… was unhappy. Terribly so. I am not Ichijou Mayumi, who thinks nothing of the duties of marrying for the future of her house, and in fact sees it as simply a thing that is inevitable, and even desirable. Nor am I Sakura, who would have done it through duty. Nor Honoka, who is too young to grasp the implications of her sacrifice, or so I thought. Hinata… well, I certainly would not have thought of Hinata at all before, seeing her as beneath me. I was terribly rude, but… it seems Hinata had the clearest eyes and greatest sense of us all…

As they walked in awkward silence to the office where her grandfather worked, even on the eve of the new year, Miyu held in a sigh. Why… why is it so hard to speak of it? Is… is it that I do not wish to disappoint grandfather? It cannot be, surely. Grandfather is wise enough to know the way this was always going to end. And… being dissatisfied with Akio as a match is incredibly foolish…

“It will be fine.” Her father surprised her by speaking up. At her glance, he shrugged. “It will be. I don’t know what ails you, Miyu, but… I’ll listen. And if I can, I’ll… support you. Father can be unreasonable, but… he does treasure you and Honoka-chan. Unlike me, you two are the future of Fujiwara house. Or rather…” he fell silent, and her mother took over.

“…for us women of the nobility, it is a… touchy… subject. For our daughter, who disdains and is disgusted by all men… all the more so. But… even so, there is happiness to be gained in marriage, in love. Even your father, for all his flaws, is not as terrible as you imagine, Miyu.”

“I know that.” was her shocking answer, and seeing Kazuhito-san’s eyes widen, Miyu felt an unexpected flicker of warmth within. “I was ignorant of the world, and more importantly, wretchedly selfish. It took meeting many people, seeing the perspective of others, to realise that my life, which I found a burden, Michiru my only solace, was in fact rather blessed. Though do not mistake me…” Miyu’s eyes flashed with heat, as she explained at length. “…I believe that I have no wish to be passed off as a trophy, my life subjected to the whims of a man I must obey simply because that is the way things are done, to preserve our family legacy. Why should I lose what makes me happy, when the men of the nobility have to sacrifice far less than we women?”

“It’s not just you, Miyu.” her father shook his head. “To prevent strife, and… to protect you and Fusako, I gave up much…”

“Much? Please.” Miyu reacted angrily, and as her father flinched, she took a deep breath, calming herself, unwilling to fall into usual patters, not this day. “Hah. Father, I understand you mean what you say, but to me… my sacrifice would be bearing the touch and orders of a man I did not know, desire, nor wish for, having to bear him children, being separated from Michiru, isolated, a mere figurehead. And worse… if I did come to love my children, were they daughters, seeing them go through just what I had endured. Yours… is instead of working for Fujiwara house, you took a position in MEXT. And even that is smooth and easy for you, your influence large, because you are Fujiwara Kazuhito. It hardly compares. But… I concede I understand your choices a little better now. But if you wish to be a father… I need a different sort now. Perhaps… perhaps it is not too late to aim for that. Perhaps.”

As he nodded slowly, her mother smiled, a rather warm one. “Miyu, I have not heard you exchange so many words with anyone for a very long time. For your father… what has it been, a decade?”

“Perhaps not quite that long. I spoke to him recently…” Miyu felt defensive suddenly, as though she had done something wrong. “…I simply… realised holding in my words achieves nothing but making me miserable, and it… offers danger of letting true happiness slip through my grasp. No more.” I see. I understand why I could not speak to grandfather, despite meaning to. Even the small chance that he denied me, that he became at odds with Akio, was more than my fragile confidence could bear. But now…

“True happiness? I’ve…” her father began, but mother silenced him.

“I think I see too. But…” They had arrived at grandfather’s office, and Miyu reached up, but before she could knock, mother beat her to it, her fists beating a confident rhythm.

“Who is it?” Miyu listened as her grandfather’s booming voice, now back to the strength she remembered from her childhood, after Chirurgery, sounded. He knows who it is. The cameras show him. But formality is very important to grandfather. I must remember that.

“It is Fusako, Kazuhito and our daughter Miyu.” Mother’s introduction was short, and the door opened, grandfather’s secretary showing them in, only to then slip out and close the door behind them, grandfather urging the departure with his eyes.

“Please, take a seat.” grandfather frowned. “It is… unusual… for the three of you to be together. Not unwelcome, just… unexpected. Though perhaps, with the Tengokusentou rededication…”

“Yes, our preparations are nearing completion…” mother agreed, though father chuckled, scratching at his chin.

“I have a great deal still to do. While Arisugawa-san has marshalled WTV and the networks that support her, including the BBC from Britain, I still have to deal with other foreign broadcasters. MSNBC, CNN, more… it’s a bold move, and a headache…” he then trailed off, glancing at Miyu. “…but, as my daughter reminded me, only a few moments ago, it is a small complaint. I should be satisfied working hard is all I have to do.”

“Well said.” grandfather approved, nodding, eyes on Miyu, as the three of them sat, Miyu in-between her parents, and the sensation was unfamiliar, a long forgotten one, yet not entirely unpleasant, though her heart was beating fast, and her mouth was dry. Why… why can I not speak? I…

Miyu, who was very distant from others, and who hated being touched, almost failed to process the fact her mother had taken her hand. Blinking a little foolishly, Miyu’s thoughts scattered, and that left an opening for her mother to speak.

“Father-in-law… no, I suppose I should be speaking to you as the head of Fujiwara house… Shige-sama, it seems Miyu has something to say, something she finds troubling. As a mother, though I have… not had a great impact on her life, alas… I still know my daughter well. She is struggling, she fears a negative outcome…”

“Yes. she always was too timid. Honoka too bold.” Grandfather sighed then, brown eyes glimmering with understanding. “But it is easier to temper boldness than it is to breathe fire into a timid heart. Yet…” He pinched his nose, as if frustrated or exhausted, an oddly human gesture for him. “Kira has his ideas, and honestly, so do I… though, is this the sort of thing you should say in front of your parents, Miyu?”

Wait…? Shocked, Miyu’s expression changed, and she lifted the fan to hide it too late.

“I trust that at least the boy was not foolish enough to go without protection? A pregnancy now would be an unwelcome scandal…”

“What? Miyu, daughter, you didn’t…?” Father was flabbergasted, caught off-guard, but her mother merely pursed her lips.

“It is Oshiro-san, isn’t it? If so… well, I can hardly say I am delighted, as a mother. Though as a wife of nobility…”

Hardly delighted? That is… Lowering her fan, Miyu’s expression was icy and determined. “What is not to be delighted about? In what aspect would Akio be seen as inferior to any?”

“Akio?” grandfather murmured, his eyes ripe with complicated emotions.

“You need to ask, Miyu? It might seem hypocritical, when the heirs of upper nobility have both wife and concubines, but that is for security with bloodlines and heirs. But… none have the women Oshiro-san has, in either number, or… strangeness…” mother continued, only for Miyu to burst out laughing, shocking herself.

“Really? What a… positively backwards… way of thinking. Let me answer your question first, grandfather. Though I had hoped to broach the subject in a better, happier way. I had hoped you would smile for me and wish me well.” She was annoyed, frustrated, angry… all of those emotions had swallowed her hesitation, and now words were pouring out. “You are right. I am too timid. I had hoped I had changed. After all, I fought at the Tengokusentou, life and death my companion, alongside fear… not fear for my own life, but for Michiru, and those I was sworn to protect, my sisters in Adamant, and all those under Akio’s care. But… when it comes to this… I falter. Because it means everything to me, and to Michiru too.”

Taking a deep breath, Miyu answered. “I am not thrilled about it. Michiru and I, we offered our unsullied, virgin bodies, along with our hearts. It was… manipulative, I see that now. No, we knew it, but…we desired it anyway. Yet Akio refused that final step. Rejoice, grandfather, mother, father. Fujiwara Miyu is still a virgin, in body, if not in heart and spirit. No, we shared what only lovers can. Despite what Shaeula might think.” Miyu tittered at her excuses, actually revelling in the shocked looks she was getting from her parents.

I was always a good girl on the surface, even as my heart ached. Quiet, studious, I mastered dance, piano, and other suitable pursuits for a noble daughter. Even if Honoka always showed results equal to or greater than my own at a young age. But this… this is something I chose for myself, Michiru chose. We chose together.

“But I fear…” Miyu’s smile was now intense, reminiscing, and her heart was racing, remembering being naked in front of Akio, feeling his very self burn through her body, being showered by his strong-smelling scent, as her beauty was enough to satisfy him… “…if you expect me to go to my bridal bed pure, it will not happen. I cannot wait that long. And I hope Akio feels the same as I do. No, I know he does. For Michiru and I shared his heart. Oh, I am getting ahead of myself. I should not speak for him. After all… I was properly educated by those women you dismiss as too many, or too strange, mother. I was presumptuous. Yet not mistaken.”

“Go on…” grandfather urged quietly, and Miyu was both surprised and gratified that he had not shouted her down, or grown angry, though she knew the potential for that happening was still there, though she hoped… grandfather must surely have accounted for the possibility of this, ever since Akio demanded control of my future…

“I am not asking. I have intent to court Akio, with a view to engagement, and then marriage. While we are not lovers, we have shared love, and… if I am being honest…” She waved her fan for emphasis, chuckling brightly, feeling a weight lift off her chest. “…I discovered that Akio is very fond of demure, beautiful, dark-haired girls. Though he can hardly be limited by one type. But I know… I can win him over. He has already snatched my heart. All that remains is for me to show commitment and become a person irreplaceable for him. Now, politically, I know this might cause problems… but… you would have to be a fool, which you assuredly are not, grandfather, to gainsay this arrangement.”

“Oh? How so?” he asked, and Miyu felt elation, as the more he asked, the more she knew he was wishing to be convinced.

“Simple. If your aim is the preservation of Fujiwara house, and the nobility as a whole, you might think Hinata, Motoko and Natsumi suffices. And indeed, they probably do. They have helped him see some aspects of the nobility which are unsatisfactory to him, in a better light. Yes, there will be changes, but… the core remains. But… you speak of the War, and the fall of so many noble houses, and the grievous damage to Takatsukasa house, often, grandfather…” At his nod, she continued her reasoned plea. “…well, the war that is coming will dwarf that. Even if it is not a strictly human on human conflict, which… honestly, we think likely anyway, then what comes after will be a battle on an unprecedented scale. And with less common ground than Japan and America shared then. And before you speak, know that we have authoritative sources. A Goddess, Valkyries, those that know.”

“And the political benefits?” grandfather pressed.

“I wish to correct any misconceptions, that I am seeking him for those.” Miyu warned. “I genuinely find him wonderful. And… I have to give up nothing for such a love. How could I not be moved? But I am aware my status as Fujiwara Miyu is an issue. Like father, I benefitted my whole life, my path was smoothed by such a status. Unlike father, I understand it well…” as he winced, she pressed on, wishing to finish so she could have her answer. “…with me at Akio’s side, Fujiwara house is more than just an allied house. Of course, Akio is a man of honour, he would protect us regardless, but… we would be his family in truth, and thus among the first to receive his strength. As for the continuation of the house, I… fully intend to bear him children. Not yet, of course. After all, I cannot Dance when pregnant, he will not allow any harm to his lovers or their potential children. But in time… yes. For once in my life the idea of it does not dismay or disgust me. But such children can carry the Fujiwara name. He is not so old-fashioned as to demand I take the Oshiro name. If I ask a boon, he will grant it. And I will give him any boon in return. Besides… you know it as well as I, grandfather.” Miyu’s final words echoed in everyone’s mind. “…you gave him control over who I am to marry. This must have been within your calculations.”

Taking a deep breath, Miyu started to sag, her adrenaline leaving her in a rush, but unwilling to show weakness, she stiffened her spine, black eyes hard and challenging, yet radiating confidence.

“That was… unexpected.” her mother remarked after a moment. “It was quite the passionate plea. But you are right in one respect. We cannot stop you, can we? Father-in-law, as head of the house, gave his word. And… I can hear genuine love in your voice, my daughter. But I am curious. Your bodyguard, Michiru-chan…”

“Feels as I do. And while we may be a burden to Akio in many ways… his compassion and understanding is warm and enfolds us. So I feel for him as I do Michiru, and she likewise.”

“Fascinating. It was obvious you and Michiru-chan were… intimate. It is far from unusual.” Mother spoke such embarrassing words calmly, and Miyu felt her face heat up, but steeled herself to remain calm. “…but most young women grow out of it, and so long as it is limited to kissing, cuddling and the like, there is little harm. I know life can be stressful as a young woman of nobility. But… Oshiro-san…”

“At least call him Akio.” Miyu insisted. “I say we are not together, not formally, but… I believe it only a matter of time. Michiru and I, we will not surrender, and… we have felt his love. And yearn for it endlessly. And as a husband, who could be better?”

“I… support you!” her father insisted suddenly, and Miyu blinked, unable to comprehend it. At that, her father let out a long sigh.

“Miyu, I don’t expect you to see me as a father worth loving yet, but… I meant it. I was happy you started speaking to me again, even if it was under difficult circumstances, and your temper was still sharp. If… this is the path you chose, even if it meant leaving Fujiwara house, I would give you my blessing. But you’ve thought it through. Your arguments were well-founded, if… a little terrifying.”

“Yes.” grandfather agreed. “But such sources, while unproven, can hardly be discounted. The Goddess Taṇhā, for one. And even the actions of this Church of True Revelation show the same sort of urgency. Else… they might have taken a different road. And above all… when you became Akio’s Vassal… if anything, I am impressed at his restraint. I knew he had a good character, if one rather too found of women… it reminds me of Kira, Itsuki and myself when we were younger…”

Grandfather chuckled, reminiscing fondly, surprising everyone. “…I could not rule out he would use you to fulfil his desires, or to seize power through you. But that worry waned, and…”

“You even entrusted Honoka into his care. It was a wise decision.” Miyu approved. “Adamant has been good for her, there are many noble daughters, if mostly from the Three-Hundred, to give her a sense of familiarity, but plenty who are not, to widen her narrow world. And there… she is safe, and the foolish, treasonous actions of Hidemasa…” Miyu was hardly going to give that wretch an honorific, uncle or not. “…cannot touch her. Nor will Akio and those who stand with him allow it. Either through me, or through Honoka, you have ensured Akio’s loyalty. I despise the calculation, but… even I understand it. But it is as I have said, I shall ensure all benefits I can for Fujiwara house, and there are many, but… not at the expense of Akio’s affection for, and trust in, me. So be warned.”

“That… is the duty of a woman born to nobility.” Mother spoke at last, her expression pensive. “You marry into a new family and give your all for them. Though your sacrifice should accrue benefits for your birth family. I think… you have understood the harsh lesson. But… will this make you happy?”

“I sound boastful and foolish if I say I know it will. Though I do say it.” Miyu laughed, relief loosening her tension. “But even if it is not what I dreamed of… it is what I chose, what I wish to pursue. Quite frankly, if Akio was here now, I would be showing him to my room. He adores my dancing, and I have an urge to serenade him with my piano. He loves hardworking women. So… I feel like I can put my effort into bettering myself, and in turn, that will make him happy. And I think he deserves happiness. After all… he and Hinata reached out a hand to me, when I clearly did not deserve it, and… he has given Michiru a priceless gift too.” Suddenly amused, she let out a bright giggle. “Koga-san must be in despair now. Michiru is even bolder than I, and not afraid to boast of what she has done.”

“Then I suppose it is settled. Not that you had any intention of allowing a refusal, did you?” grandfather asked, and Miyu shook her head.

“No, of course not. But I hardly wished you to be disappointed in my choice. So your support is appreciated.”

“We are harsh with you, our children…” grandfather agreed. “…but we do it out of love, but our responsibility for the legacy we carry often forces us into difficult choices. Perhaps here though, what you must do and what you wish for align. You are fortunate, Miyu, it seems.”

“Yes. it is as the others say. No matter the misfortune or sorrow, that was merely a blink of an eye compared to the joy the rest of our long lives shall bring us. I… have let go of my past. We can… start afresh, father. So do not disappoint me again.” Miyu’s tone was hard, and her father chuckled.

“That sounds more like you, Miyu. But… I won’t make the same mistakes again. Now, I suppose it’s too early to speak to Akio-kun as a father…”

“A little.” Miyu agreed, heart feeling lighter, knowing Michiru would be sharing this joy with her, at least once Koga-san stopped his crying and attempts to hug her. “But have no fear, soon enough it shall be your turn, father, mother… I am not letting this happiness slip through my fingers, even if I have to fight for it…”

Yes, that is what I learned from the others. If you do not risk yourself, risk your heart, you achieve nothing. And for me… my burdens, my potential disappointment and distress… they are far lighter than some carry. And they did not falter, so… I can do no less than they!

Mind made up, Miyu was greatly anticipating the events of the new year. “…one final thing. I am very much hoping to go to Britain tomorrow. If I can join Akio’s party, it will give me opportunities to spend time with him, and… shows I have a certain status in his affections…”

Plans whirring in her brain, but only ones to show off her own charms, not to disadvantage him or trap him, Miyu’s smile grew more charming. I will not use the second unique Dance, not… not until Akio boldly declares he loves me. Then… then I shall give him everything…

***

Park Yu-mi

“You look rough, Dad. Let me get you some tea.” Yu-mi insisted. Laying down endless bags of shopping, dresses, underwear and more she’d bought while out with Aiko, Eri, Kana and the others, hitting all the exclusive and fashionable boutiques and stores in central Tokyo, she’d arrived back to find her father waiting, which made sense, as he was also a guest at the Tengokusentou rededication, to try and wash out the shame and disaster of the first event which ended with such violence and destruction.

“You don’t need to bother. It seems you’ve been busy. Spending your allowance?” he managed a joke, and while the effect of despair and worry for cousin Yu-jun which had prematurely aged him had vanished, and Chirurgery had given him a strangely youthful glow, he still seemed troubled.

“Very funny, dad.” Yu-mi bustled around, brewing tea. “I can get you something stronger? I drank most of my booze last night. Celebrating.” Her face flushed, and she wondered if her dad had noticed. “But I’m sure I can find a bottle or two around the estate. Though don’t drink too much. Everyone will be there tonight, and the world is watching.” I very much hope South Korea, and especially those dog-brained idiots who betrayed the High Commander and Akio, are. Not just dog-brained, they’ve the morals and the greed of dogs too. But… they’ve gone too far. And now… I have even more reason to be furious.

“Tea is fine.” he insisted, and after Yu-mi poured out several cups, they sat in silence for a while, sipping on it, before Yu-mi asked a question.

“So how’s Yu-jun?”

“He… well, he says he’s fine.” Her dad sighed, drumming the table with his fingers, a clear sign of worry. “And he’s outwardly okay. And thanks to my connections, we managed to get him assigned to a school of the same sort you went to, with a good reputation. It doesn’t have the political capital of Choe-Museon, but…”

“Yeah. It’s going to be a stain on him, in a lot of people’s eyes, but…” Yu-mi cracked her knuckles, resolute. “…I’ll change that. I’ll change a lot of things. Don’t worry, dad. Oh, have a cookie. They’re not bad.” She remembered buying some a little while ago, so she rummaged around her bags and brought out the fancy box, opening it up and laying it out on the table. With a grin, she took a couple, crunching into one with a satisfying bite. “So good! I can’t eat too many though, I don’t want to get fat! Though I suppose I could always exercise more. Sweets or exercise, sweets or exercise, the choice all women dread…”

As she giggled softly, her father seemed to hesitate. Covering for that by taking a long swig of his tea, Yu-mi didn’t fail to notice his trepidation.

“Seriously, dad, if it’s Yu-jun, just ask. If the nightmares are back, I can ask Haru to give him another course of Light Of Muted Emotions. Fitting it in will be rough, but we’ll make it work. I’m sure he’s fine physically, but we’ve got the finest healers here. And I doubt we’re suddenly poor, though by the way you teased me about spending my allowance, maybe we’re penniless.” She snorted to show what she thought of that. “Don’t worry, as a Marquise, I get paid rather well, and honestly… a lot of these were gifts, anyway.”

It’s a bit awkward taking them from younger girls, but Eri and Aiko insisted, saying that thanks to my help, things moved in a good direction. Don’t get me wrong, I did offer some good advice, as did Kana, but what it boils down to in the end is that they had to work it out themselves, and to do so, we had to stop meddling, and they both had to be honest. It’s… oh, I don’t know what it is, but I know I can live with however it plays out. How could I not? Right now I’m ecstatic. Soo-ah-unni keeps teasing me and saying I’m radiating a pink aura, but… that’s just how I feel, like everything was worth it, leading up to this moment!

“…so yeah, if we’re falling on hard times…” Yu-mi continued the joke, trying to lift her dad’s mood. “…don’t worry, I can give you a loan. I won’t even charge interest.” She winked playfully. “Now that the factory is online and is only going to expand operations over the next year, I’m rich!”

Dad paused, and he seemed puzzled, but Yu-mi found that expression brighter than his worried frown, so she wasn’t displeased, and his question led into what she’d decided to say anyway. Though my heart is racing. I hope… I hope dad can be happy for me, and that his guilt doesn’t wound him further…

“Why would that have anything to do with you? And no, our finances are fine. Yes, we’ve… lost some support in Korea… those businessmen who shared my past… anti-Japanese views…” He grimaced, admitting it, ashamed, as well he might be.

That’s so old-fashioned, dad. We’ve got to stop living in the past. Besides, worrying over other races and cultures seems so utterly stupid when there are spiritual beings everywhere…

“…have pulled away from us, but we’ve made up for that with Japanese, and even some British collaborations. Don’t worry… while Yu-jun will be taking over the Doosan group, your inheritance won’t be miserly. How… how could it be? After… you offered everything to help Yu-jun. I hate that I had to do it, but… I’m so grateful I raised an honest, filial daughter like you, who knows compassion.”

“Aww, dad…” Yu-mi was touched, but also troubled. “…don’t make me blush. I wasn’t doing it out of any altruistic sense of self-sacrifice. I simply wouldn’t have been able to live with myself if cousin Yu-jun died, and you lost what little of your sister you have left. So don’t make more of it that there was. I was a bitch about it. To you, and to Akio. Still… thanks, dad.”

“Thanks? For what?”

At his bafflement, Yu-mi smiled as brightly as she could. “For introducing me to my future boyfriend. As of last night… Akio and I are dating.”

There was an awkward silence, only broken by Yu-mi deciding to crunch another cookie, deciding momentary pleasure was important, and exercise was a future concern.

“Come on, dad… say something.” Yu-mi insisted after the silence dragged on uncomfortably, and eventually, he did speak.

“Yu-mi, you… don’t have to sacrifice for me, or Yu-jun. If we need further aid, we can… what?” he trailed off, confused, as Yu-mi puffed out her cheeks angrily, frustrated.

I mean, I get why. But this is the reaction I didn’t want to see. “Dad, if you don’t want to upset me, then don’t be like this. I’m an honest daughter, remember? I’m not doing it to win any favours, or to help Yu-jun. and honestly, it’s an insult to all Akio has already done for us to think he’d demand any such price.”

“At how fiercely you defend him, it’s almost like…” her dad paused yet again at the knowing look in her brown eyes.

“It’s not almost, it’s exactly like that.” Yu-mi clarified. “I fell for him, dad. And I was worried he didn’t see me the same way, but… turns out he was regretting that day as much as I was. He said I was a gift from his Fortune stat. it was so romantic my chest felt like it would burst.” Red-faced, Yu-mi giggled, covering her embarrassment with another cookie.

“I… don’t exactly get it, but… really? I know I am in no position to do anything but ask for your forgiveness, but… he has a lot of women. It will be hard to be happy…”

“Even more now.” Yu-mi agreed. “And I’m not a fool. Eri’s got good senses for this too. I won’t be the last. But you know what? I don’t think it’ll be hard to be happy at all… think of it this way. What’s the average time a working couple in Korea spend together each day?” Akio hates it when we rationalise it like this, but it’s true, as is what Shaeula says. Besides… he’s already managed to clone himself so he can be in two places at once… no, Akio laothes calling them clones too. I get it, that would be creepy… split himself might be better…

Her dad was a bit thrown off, but he understood her point. “Only a couple of hours, most of that time wouldn’t even be spent being together, just… in the same space, cooking or doing chores.”

“Exactly. I can get more than that if I want it even now. I might have to share it with one or two others, but we’d be having a lot more fun.” She winked playfully. “Besides, I love being responsible for things. I’ve found my career path now. And many more friends. Hey, I can even help a lot of my old friends from the clubs of Gangnam and the rich-girl circuit, we geumsujeo.” Clasping her hands together, Yu-mi tittered meaningfully. “At least you didn’t try and arrange a match with any low-class men like the Yeom brothers. Though don’t worry, they’ll get their just desserts soon enough. So dad, don’t be sad. Be happy for me! I never would have experienced any of this if you didn’t make the first move.”

“No.” After a while, her dad spoke up, his tone firming as he expressed what was in his heart. “You made everything happen. Because you didn’t put yourself first. Maybe it’s Karma, if there is such a thing…”

Oh, there is. It’s not omnipotent, for sure, bad people still get away with evil unpunished, the good sometimes suffer misfortune, but we know that Karma’s real. Not wanting to interrupt her dad she didn’t air that thought.

“…but you’ve… also worked hard. I know it. So…” he took a deep breath. “…is this what you really want?”

“Yeah. It is, dad. Every day’s so exciting. Stressful, yes, hard, certainly. But always so terribly entertaining. I think I’ve found my calling. And isn’t it just great if I found my boyfriend while doing that?”

“I… suppose it is.” her dad nodded, conceding the point. “But do you think it’ll work out?” He was suddenly concerned, which left a warm feeling in Yu-mi’s chest. “After all…” he continued. “…he does have a lot of women. No, you’re objectively a beauty, and my treasure, Yu-mi, so I shouldn’t worry, but…”

“Hey, I worry too. But… honestly, I’ve learned to be confident. I’m not a geumsujeo, a golden spoon here. I’m rewarded on merit. I worked my way up to Marquise through my efforts. Sure, now I’m dating Akio, I’ll probably get more support, but… I’m still going to be a woman he can be proud to love. That’s what matters. Honestly, everyone’s the same.”

Yu-mi leaned back, her half-drunk tea cooling and forgotten. “Be they common girl, noble or rich daughter like me, even a Princess, a Fae, or a Yōkai, everyone wants to be the best they can be. Akio’s the same way. He wants to do his best for us too, so that we never regret loving him. And that won my heart. Perhaps it was all meant to be. I don’t care though, meant or not, it will be. I’ve set my heart on it, for the first time in my life, I really want something. So yeah… Yu-jun best get his head on straight, dad. Because I want him to smile and congratulate me on my wedding day. And I want you to walk me down the aisle, dad.”

“It had best be a big aisle…” dad sighed, reaching for his tea, only to find what remained had gone cold.

“Very funny.” Yu-mi chuckled. “Let me heat up some more tea. I’ve a little time before I have to get ready. Oh… that reminds me. Dad, I’m thinking of going with them to London tomorrow. I have to wait for Hinata to be ready anyway, so instead of coming back to Korea…”

“It’s fine.” her dad agreed easily enough. “I remember what it was like when I first started dating your mother. I had rivals too. Though… not in the same way you do.” His lips curved into a faint smile, and Yu-mi was glad to see it. “When you’re back, be sure to spend some time with her, all right? With your new friends. You can introduce them.”

“Sure. It’ll be a nice break from the heavy stuff we’ve got to do.” Yu-mi poured out fresh tea, before clenching her fist. “South Korea’s rotten, dad. They don’t even keep their promises to those of us who risk our lives to save others. And now… now it’s personal.”

“Yes, I can see that.” he agreed, laughing now. “Anyway, when you see your mother, try and soothe her anger towards me. It’s been… frosty… since you agreed to my pleas, Yu-mi. In her head, she understood it, and like you say, arranged marriages aren’t so uncommon amongst the rich, but… she was furious because it was a man who already had many women. So if you can tell her it all worked out…”

“Oh, I will.” Yu-mi chuckled, fresh tea and cookies in hand. “But that won’t stop her from being angry. You know how she is…”

“Oh I do. I married her, after all…” her dad conceded, and as talk turned to lighter matters, Yu-mi was content. Great. Now maybe dad will stop hurting. Yeah, I do need to see my mother, but… it’s just a shame Akio won’t be there to introduce to her. Still… I think she’ll like him. How can she not?

***

Suzuki Haru

“I know I shouldn’t be saying this to you, as you’ll tell me you’re fine, Haru, but I am your father, after all. You’ve pulled another all-nighter. I know you say you don’t need sleep anymore, but… not needing it and not wanting it are two different things.”

Haru held in a smile at her daddy’s concern. She’d returned home for a short while after the eventful, and heart-pounding night… I never knew my heart could beat like that or at least feel like it is. I’m dead, after all. But… I suppose if I can blush, then why not that?

“I appreciate you worry about me, but… I wasn’t working last night. For once, anyway. It was a lot of fun.”

“Oh?” daddy paused for a moment, eyeing Haru cautiously. “Fun, you say?”

“Yes.” she nodded. “Fun. I spent a lot of time hanging out with my friends, just talking, relaxing and playing games. But should we be talking about this? Don’t you have work to do, daddy?”

“Changing the subject are you? As it happens, no, I don’t today. It is the new year tonight. Most government departments are on break. The Tengokusentou… well, that’s Fujiwara-san’s job for MEXT, as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and also Tsumura-san’s Ministry of Defence. Oh, the Prime Minister will be in attendance as well, alongside some very exalted guests. But there’s no need for me, thank all the Gods…” he complained, further intensifying Haru’s amused smile. “…every time I’m called into do something, it just ends up costing the country money. Balancing the budget this fiscal year is going to be a nightmare. We’re lucky that the Prime Minister is riding high off borrowed popularity from Akio-san, tax rises always cost votes…”

“Don’t worry, I’m sure a lot of that will be eased by Akio’s factories coming online. The power generation too. Think of the savings…”

Daddy rolled his eyes. “You’re my darling little girl, and I love you, Haru, but you are being wildly overoptimistic. These projected savings never pan out. Savings are always under, expenses always over. That’s just finance.”

“If anyone can break that cycle of gloom for you, daddy, Akio can.” Haru insisted. “Anyway, I need to get changed, I have to look my best for the ceremony. There’ll be a lot of cameras there. I may be dead, but I’ll not be caught dead looking tired and untidy!”

Daddy frowned. “You know I don’t like those jokes, Haru, but… huh.”

Huh? Haru raised one eyebrow questioningly, and was surprised when her daddy leaned closer, scrutinising her intently.

“Are you sure you didn’t have a rest. You seem… I don’t quite know how to say this… brighter? Healthier? I can’t quite explain it…”

Trust you to notice, daddy. But I’m pleased you did. It means how I feel inside is reflected on the outside. I like that…

“I think I can. Daddy, do you want to sit down?” I suppose now is as good a time as any.

“Why? There’s nothing wrong, I hope?” he asked, and Haru chuckled, shaking her head.

“Of course not. I work hard and play hard. Got to live a life, even if it’s an afterlife. More importantly…” Haru glanced at her watch, her precious Christmas gift. “…I’ve got a little time. Instead… do you want to go see mom?”

Daddy jolted at that, before nodding. “Yes. I’d like that.” Together, they walked into the living room, where a photograph of Haru’s deceased mother had pride of place, a bowl for burning incense before it. As the pair of them lit sticks, the fragrant smell reminding Haru of sadness and loss, the two of them sat down, and her daddy was first to speak.

“When… when I lost you, I was heartbroken. I didn’t want to go on. I just wanted to join you and your mother. But if I had given in…”

“I like to think mom is up there somewhere. We know spirits and the soul are real.” Haru agreed. Truesoul, I suppose, but we’re still not to share such knowledge carelessly. “So maybe you’d have found mom again. I… I wouldn’t have been there, though. And if… if I’d returned, and found you gone, daddy, I’d have been devastated. So thank you. Thank you for holding on for me, despite it hurting, despite it being painful.”

“I guess we should be thanking Akio-san, for bringing you back. He promised, and… and he did it. And his reassurances kept me just strong enough to cling on to hope. He was pushy, and honestly a bit insensitive, asking me questions and getting the answers from you, proving that you were…” her daddy sighed. “…I was going to say alive somewhere, but that’s not quite right.”

“Oh, I think it is. I feel alive now, you know?” Haru insisted, and he paused.

“Yes, there’s something about you today. And it’s not just relief the Pilgrimage is over, is it?”

“Nope.” Haru decided to be honest. “Daddy… I think… I think I can start living again, you know? Not in terms of being alive, but… in what we need to feel alive.”

“I knew it. Your eyes… they… they seem a lot like your mother’s eyes, when we started dating, and when… and when she looked at you. Gods, how I miss her…”

“I do too, daddy. I do too. But…” Haru placed her hand over his, his flesh warm to the touch, so very human. “…I’d hope she’d want me to be happy, to find love, even after… even after… you know.”

“I do. Some people are cruel, they would see you as tainted. If anyone says that to you though, Haru, tell your father, okay? I’ll send them to Hell!” He placed his own hand on hers, and it was reassuring, comforting. But… it doesn’t feel the same as when Akio touches me. Sorry daddy, I’ll always love you, but… a daughter eventually finds a man she loves, doesn’t she?

“Don’t worry, Akio doesn’t think I’m anything but lovable.” Haru came right out with it and was amused at her daddy’s reaction. First he froze, then his eyes widened, and then tears started forming, and she smiled, and a flash of aether wiped them away. “Don’t cry, daddy. It’s a happy day. I’m happy.”

“This… you’re serious? But…”

“But what? I’m an Onryō? That hardly matters to Akio. And… I can do anything a human woman can. Anything. It won’t cause problems for our future together. I’m a victim of… yeah, that’s a tough one. For me though, not for Akio. I feel ashamed, and I do still feel a little unclean, though… I’ve been working on that.” Exposure to what real love is, real sex… it’s a bit frightening, it makes my hands tremble and my head hurt sometimes, but… feeling the genuine joy that Akio and the others share makes me want it too, something to paint over the black and red stains within me.

“And the others… that helps a little, don’t you think, daddy?” At his puzzled stare, Haru turned her gaze back to the picture of mom and the burning incense sticks. “I mean, I’m still not ready for… for sex. Though, strangely enough, I managed the massage just fine. I was testing myself, you know? And also trying to approach him. I regret it, a bit.”

Haru was almost talking to herself, hoping words reached her mom, and her daddy would understand how she felt. “I wanted him to see me not as someone to protect, but… but as a woman he could hold affection for, he could love. Just like any other. But… his kindness is his greatest strength. He couldn’t even imagine thinking of me in any sort of romantic or sexual way, in case he hurt me. Because he hides nothing, just so I’ll always feel comfortable and safe around him. And because he sets the precedent, the girls don’t shield themselves from me either. I’ve a whole world where I can feel absolute safety.”

“Go on…” daddy murmured.

“In the end though, it all worked out. Though it frustrated me it was so difficult!” Haru puffed out her cheeks disconsolately. “Maybe I’m just not pretty enough? But… I’m not ready, I need to take things slow. And… I trust Akio to do that. Fortunately, he’s got a lot of lusty girlfriends. So he won’t be pressuring me for physical intimacy. It all works out. It helps…” her tone was more serious now. “…that I’m deeply fond of those he’s chosen. I think living… yes, living… with them all will be very fulfilling. Never a dull moment. I think… despite it sounding strange, after all, Akio’s a bit of a womaniser…” Haru chuckled softly. “…I think mom would have liked him. Don’t you, daddy?”

“After she’d given him a piece of her mind. I’m going to have to as well, I see. And don’t say you’re not pretty, Haru. You’re my beautiful daughter. Not… not even death could change that.” His face was red, but he manfully struggled not to shed any more tears. “I’ve got… very… mixed feelings about this, but… but all that matters is… can you be happy with him, Haru? All I want, especially after losing you, and then by a miracle finding you again, is for you to always be smiling. That’s all your mother would want too. Live on, even after you died, and smile from the heart.”

“I am smiling. Yes, there’ll be tough times ahead. Both in my romantic future, and just because… the world is going to become ever more dangerous.” Haru pondered it. “Akio’s going to have to be very patient with me, but…”

“But you’re absolutely worth it.” daddy insisted. “If… if you’re going to do it, I won’t let your fears confuse you. Trust me, Haru. You are worth loving. And… it sounds like Akio does love you. He’s got good taste, at least.”

“Oh my, yes he has.” Haru giggled, suddenly feeling a weight lifted from her shoulders. “It does make me wonder, though, how many other girls are having this same conversation right now? He’s a sinful man, but… is it truly wrong to seek to make everyone happy?”

“A question for the ages.” daddy mused. “I wonder what your mother would say? She was a kind woman, but fiery. It all comes down to one question, I suppose…”

“Oh, do tell.” Haru leaned in, interested.

“It’s simple. If he succeeds, he’s a good man and a hero. If he fails, then he’s just a rake and a rogue!”

“I see. I like it!” Haru relaxed, giggling. “So it’s all about results? That makes things easy then, because… we’re all happy, every one of us. I won’t say we don’t have our worries, our desires, our dreams… but there’s strength in numbers, you know?” She winked playfully. “Better still, there’s strength in strength. And we’ve all got plenty of that!”

“I know you have. My brave little Haru, stronger than even you thought possible.” daddy approved. “I can’t speak for your mother, but… I knew her well. She’d tell you to follow your heart, and if you end up hurting, well, we’re always waiting to comfort you and dry your tears. I’d say, so long as there’s life, there’s hope, for a better future, but… even when life ends, there’s hope still, you’re living, yes, living… proof of that!”

“I guess so.” Haru agreed. “Thanks, daddy. I’m glad you were always there for me. But… there’s a day every girl grows up.”

“Yes. But fortunately, you’re not going to be a bride just yet, and… even when you do…”

“Yes. no need to cry, daddy. I’ll always be your daughter, and Akio believes in family. On the bright side, you’ll have your first grandchildren soon…” She winked at his surprise, patting her belly. “Not mine. Not yet. Not for a long time, not until there’s a safe world for them to be born into, but… one day. My life was taken, so… to create new life from the love I share with another, it… it’ll put everything into perspective.”

“Oh, so you mean Asha’s children.”

Of course daddy knows about them. It’s not exactly widespread, but the high-ranking officials of Japan are aware of Akio’s doings to an extent.

“Yes. We’re not sure of the due date, Fae are very different, but she’s starting to show, which is… something Fae normally don’t do, so… it can’t be too long.”

“I’d say you are being awfully confident that you believe Akio-san will marry you too, Haru, but…” daddy’s smile was kind and warm. “…Akio-san is many things, but a fool isn’t one of them. Letting you escape would haunt him for life. Honestly… it’s not what I dreamed for your future, but…”

“It’s a future worth having. And the one I want now.” Haru finished for him. “Yes, if you’d have asked me what my wishes were last New Year’s shrine visit, it wouldn’t have been this, not at all. But my wishes and prayers this year will be easy to predict. Oh, since you’re free today, daddy, come to Nishimorioka shrine, we’re all going there tonight after the Tengokusentou. Otherwise you won’t get to see me for a few days…” Haru felt her cheeks heat up, proving that indeed yes, the dead could blush. “…as I’m going to London with Akio and the others.”

“I see. Yes, I suppose I’d best do so.” He turned to the photo, as the incense sticks burned out. “Darling, you can’t be there to pray for our daughter, but… I’ll do your share too. I can do that much, at least. So we have no regrets.”

“Yes. no regrets.” Haru used aether to wipe her daddy’s eyes one more time, and she smiled at her mom’s photo, all that she had to remember her by. Mom, one day, I hope you are reborn and can experience the happiness of a life and love again. If so… and you have another child, do love them like you gave me so much love, even in the unfairly short time we had together. As for daddy… don’t worry about him. He’s overbearing and clumsy, but… we’ll take care of him. After all, he’ll soon have a very big extended family…