On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

Four Hundred And Seventy-Eight

Eleanor looked troubled at Miss Aditi’s sudden request, but Aditi held her ground. I didn’t know her well, not at all, but judging by the reactions of her companions, such wilfulness and determination seemed unusual. From the little contact I’ve had with her, she’s always seemed rather softly spoken and polite.

“I… am not sure what to say.” Eleanor began. “Aditi, we have no right to make such a request, but do you believe you could succeed?”

Aditi wasn’t sure, but her brown eyes were resolute. “Princess, I have no idea. But… if a chance could come my way to replace what was lost, and once again stand by your side, I wish to seize it.”

The members of Adamant and the crowd looked on, curious. Our allies from Britain came up to the stage me and my girls were on, and I communicated silently with Eri, who said I should decide based on how I felt, and I was surprised when David spoke up. “It’s a big ask, sure, but we’re all friends here, right?” He draped an arm around my shoulder, grinning savagely, amused. “It’s not like I don’t get the urge to help out your girls, playboy.” He winked at Motoko and Natsumi. “Ordinarily I’d cheer for you both, especially you, fangirl.” He addressed Natsumi, who rolled her eyes, but she wasn’t displeased. “But little miss Indian here is one of my comrades, and as the battle-king of Britain, heir to Caturix, I don’t let my comrades down. So forgive me.” He winked, and Natsumi giggled.

“You’re awfully brave.” Shiro chuckled. “Flirting with Natsumi here in front of Aki.”

“I’m not flirting.” David snorted, amused. “I’m not the sort of man who needs to steal women from other people. But I’m a professional, I have to respect those smart enough to be my fans!”

“As egotistical as ever, Mr Reckless.” Mary-Jane said quietly. “If I may… as someone who knows what it is to lose these new powers… some may see it as a relief, perhaps. Setting down their burdens, but for those of us who have stood beside Princess Eleanor, and our other comrades, we know… if we don’t carry it, someone else has to take that weight as well. If I could have my powers returned… I waver, but perhaps I would, despite the danger.”

“Yes, you understand me well.” Aditi agreed. She bowed to me and the Princess. “I certainly do not feel I have any entitlement to this boon. In fact, I have been receiving your kindness…” she said to me earnestly. “…for some time. First in saving my life, and secondly, in showing me a path to regaining some strength and purpose. And I am no liar. My parents raised me to be upright. So I certainly cannot pledge to serve you, for I have already given my word to Princess Eleanor. However…” she curtsied again. “…I can assure you that as long as it does not compromise my integrity or harm the efforts of the Princess, you can call and I will answer.”

“This is… troubling.” Eleanor said at last. “We are allies, certainly, though asking for this seems a bit much.” She paused. “Though of course you had no hesitation in robbing me for your aid, so my conscience could stand it, I think.”

Shaeula laughed at that, coming over. “Of course. And there will be more-more to take. Vassals and wives, both-both shall have their due, as agreed. But…” she was serious now. “Even your treasures pale in comparison to the gifts-gifts of these Gods. But do not-not let the value sway you. It is simply a matter of inevitability.” She snorted happily. “After all, Princess of Humans, you are tied to us by the very threads of Fate itself.”

“Miss Aditi, you are here, so of course you can compete.” I said at last. I hoped that Motoko or Natsumi would win the Favour, of course, and I was tempted to offer it to them without question and let them decide amongst themselves, but that was short-term thinking. There were a number of benefits to this current plan, such as showing off our power to Adamant and my other allies, finding a host who would use the Favour to its greatest extent, and more. Besides, Eri’s shown me that strength doesn’t have to be tied to Favours. In fact, I imagine she could defeat a number of Chosen, should she fight them earnestly, though obviously any number with broken or deadly abilities would defeat her in turn.  “We’re all fighting for the same thing, which is the safety of those we love, our countries, and humanity. We have mutual defence agreements and more. So… yeah. It’s fine.”

As Aditi thanked me, I waved it off. “Hey, don’t get cocky, Motoko and Natsumi will be taking part too, and you can’t count out Bell or Soliteare.”

“I will thank you anyway.” Eleanor said seriously. “Again, you have treated us with great fairness, even if you did plunder the Tower.” She seemed unwilling to let that go. “Miss Motoko, Miss Natsumi…” she nodded to Aditi’s rivals in this challenge. “…once more I apologise for nearly ruining an important event in your life with my own narrow-mindedness. It seems we are destined to be at odds.”

“It is nothing to be concerned about.” Motoko said calmly. “In the end, our debut was a great success, and my parents and grandparents were proud, and my classmates envious. Akio is prone to being misunderstood.”

“That’s right.” Natsumi agreed. “It’s just one more rival to battle. And there will be no hard feelings. If it isn’t meant to be, it won’t come to us.” As David praised them, admiring their martial spirit, it was settled.

As Bell and Soliteare joined Motoko, Natsumi and Aditi on the stage, I explained exactly what the trial would entail. “This may be over swiftly, or it may take days, weeks or longer. But essentially, the five of you have to complete to strengthen your compatibility with the Favours.” There were only people I trusted here, so after giving the crowd that explanation, I went into more depth with the competitors. “There seem to be multiple facets to it. As to how people are chosen to bear these gifts, it’s not entirely clear, but we do know from experience a lot of details.” Some weaselkin and ratkin maids brought us all refreshments. My girls were eagerly listening to me explain, and the members of Adamant and the Fae were also partaking in a generous feast laid out to raise morale.

“The first thing is it depends on the God. Personality traits and experiences like the Gods from myth seem to be an indicator. Like how I hate dogs.” I laughed at myself. A wolf like Fenrir wasn’t a dog, but it was the little things like that which could make a big difference. “Jumong is worshipped in Korea, and I have some basic information. In addition to personality, experiences seem to be a factor too. If you mirror some, then it seems more likely to take.”

“That’s down to the adherence, right?” Shiro questioned Tan, and nodded. “Yeah, makes sense. You may not be able to make them yourself, but of course you’d know.”

“There’s also having talent in the area. Since this is an archery-related favour, being a skilled bow user is likely key. Then there’s elemental affinities. Having the relevant Skill seems to make you more compatible. Let me explain…”

The description of the Favour was The wielder can call upon arrows of potent light, near invisible and as swift as an eagle, yet precise enough to strike even a fly in flight. Just as Jumong struck down many prey animals with his precise accuracy, so too shall your foes be pierced with arrows as swift as light. “So breaking it down, it’s a light element, but archery is also very favourable with wind. Swiftness and precision seem to be key. Honestly, my sis could likely take it, if she was so inclined.”

My sis nodded proudly. “Yeah, and don’t get me wrong, my bro has doubled up, so I could too, but I’d rather someone else gets their chance.”

“You are quite kind, Aiko.” Motoko praised her, and my sis looked embarrassed.

“I wouldn’t say that. It’s just logical. Sure, it’d give me more offensive options, but… I’m confident I can learn to get my arrows that strong without a crutch. And a lot of the other benefits are wasted on me. I was more than happy to concede to you or Natsumi-chan, but it seems you have it tough.”

“I fear no competition.” Motoko declared. “Not fair competition, anyway.” At her glance, Natsumi flushed.

“Sorry. Can we stop talking about that now?” she replied, and there was laughter.

“So, if you need to borrow anyone, feel free. The twins and Haru can help with elements, and anyone else will be happy to support your efforts.”

“All right!” Hinata declared loudly. “The competition is starting. Those of you from Adamant will be rewarded if your help pushes one of the challengers closer to success. So stay sharp!” Some of the members seemed excited at her words, and others were merely puzzled. I saw the two Shiraishi girls looking particularly lost, and I glanced at Hinata. Seeing where I was looking, she sighed. “Don’t mind them. They aren’t used to things yet. But when the Tengokusentou is back in their hands, they’ll understand. Now I’m more determined than ever to make the Koreans yield!”

“In that case, I won’t be shy.” Natsumi laughed. “Are you coming, Motoko?”

Motoko shook her head. “No, I shall return to the Material for a brief while. Good luck, Natsumi.”

“You too!” As they hugged, their brief dispute resolved, the two Elves grinned.

“Akio, I’m going to show you I have what it takes!” Bell said proudly. “Watch me and think better of me, all right?” Her smile was seductive, and she grabbed Natsumi’s arm. “It’s a lot harder for us Fae to transcend our limits, but I know it’s possible, I’ve seen it many times now. So help me!”

“Don’t leave me out!” Soliteare pouted. She nodded to me, seeming a little shy, before following Natsumi over to Shaeula, who buffed them with her fortunate winds. They then grabbed Haru, who let out a little laugh as they dragged her off towards the twins.

“You forgot me!” Shiro shouted, and Natsumi shook her head as Motoko entered one of the buildings and vanished.

“No, I’ll be back later when I work out what I want!” Natsumi yelled back, and in a flurry of activity, only Aditi of the competitors was left behind.

“Slow out of the starting blocks, girl?” David laughed, but Sir Arthur shook his head, stroking his greying beard thoughtfully.

“Haste makes waste, David. You should know that. While it is a competition, there is no time limit, and we are at an information disadvantage. Taking a moment to pause is only wise.”

“Yes, you’ve explained how it works, which…” Eleanor thought to herself for a moment, nodding. “Yes, it’s why we came, in a way. But while I’m grateful to you allowing Aditi to have a chance… we British respect fair play.” She crossed her arms, frowning. “It seems all the advantages lie elsewhere. Aditi is greatly behind.”

“Is she?” I shook my head. “I’m not entirely so sure.” I eyed the bow Aditi carried, a treasure from the Tower. “After all, while not all Favours are created equal, there’s got to be some synergy.”

“I have some questions, if I may. Your advice was interesting, but I fear I am not as well versed in such matters as you are, Mr Oshiro.” Aditi asked, listing a number of pertinent questions. I told her to drop the formalities and call me Akio, and went through her points. Yeah, she’s pretty sharp. She gets it. “In that case, I am ready to proceed. Again, you have my thanks for your generosity, and if I can repay this favour in the future, I will do so.” She repeated her good wishes, and I felt a little embarrassed.

“Hey, don’t talk like you’ve won. Motoko and Natsumi are fired up, and the Elves are no slouches either.” I scratched my cheek, and David couldn’t hold in loud guffaws at my bashfulness.

“Hell, man. You’ve got like a dozen women, and you’re still all shy when little miss Indian here praises you? That’s damn weak, man. Weak. But then, some people prefer that to confidence, I guess.”

“Shut up please, David.” Eleanor rolled her eyes at his banter. “Though you hardly needed to allow Aditi to participate, despite my plea. I still don’t fully understand your reasons. It seems counterintuitive.”

“I’ve touched on it, but honestly, I’m a bit worried.” My sis being exposed on international television has worried me. I could just have Motoko and Natsumi toss a coin to see who works on becoming compatible, but… no, I get the urge to let Fortune or Fate decide. The slow building of Foresight was becoming a shadow cast over me. “Speaking of… you all need to be very careful. I sense trouble on the horizon.”

Eleanor opened her mouth to speak, but at my serious expression, she paused. “Yes, I see. I ignored your warnings before, and… I regret it.” She sighed mournfully. “In fact… we are here for a reason in addition to the returned citizens. But we’ll talk about that later.”

David was the one sighing now, and surprisingly, Sir Arthur patted him on the shoulder reassuringly, while Mrs Mary-Jane was talking to Aditi, giving her some advice. Her mind made up, Aditi nodded. “Well then. Thanks to your insights I know what I must do. Wish me luck, Princess.”

After a few more reassuring words from her comrades, Aditi headed off, her eyes fixed on something down the hills that made up Shirohebizumi’s lands. Seeing what she was looking at, I couldn’t help but smile. Clever. Oh well, maybe this is a mistake, but doing it this way does increase everyone’s motivation, and shows to Adamant and my other allies that I’m prepared to offer them benefits too. Though certainly if a Favour comes up that fits one of the girls perfectly, they’ll get it, no questions asked, I’m sure. And speaking of…

I sent a maid to fetch Azuki, and soon the little Zashiki-Warashi waddled over, her short, doll-like legs struggling to cover the distance. On seeing her, Eleanor’s eyes sparkled, and she let out a bright exclamation. “How cute! Simply adorable!”

On seeing my surprised expression, she flushed, covering her face with one hand. After a moment she composed herself, and repeated herself, in a more ordinary tone. “This doll is quite pretty, very cute.”

“Do you like dolls, Eleanor?” I asked, and she nodded slowly.

“I always have, as you can imagine, grandmother has a great collection of antique dolls from all around the world, and is always receiving new ones as gifts when she travels abroad on state visits. I used to admire them when I was younger, and I have a few of my own.”

“The Princess here is a woman after all.” David laughed, only to shut his mouth at her steely glare, though it couldn’t stop his smile.

“I’m not a doll, I’m Azuki!” she protested. “What do you want, master? I’m busy.”

That’s a lie. I’m not a fool. Azuki spent her time either lazing around the shrine, being spoiled by Keomi-chan, Marika-chan and the other shrine maidens, or at our new home, where mom and auntie Hana enjoyed her company. It’s not like I don’t understand her, she was trapped in Takakura Antiques in the Boundary with that corrupted Kami for a very long time. Now she’s free from her torments she wants to enjoy herself and relax. But… “I’m sure you are. But Azuki… I have something to ask you. You’ve been listening to what we’ve been talking about, haven’t you?”

“I have.” Azuki said, not understanding.

“In that case…” I weighed up my words. “Azuki, it turns out I think you have a very good compatibility with one Favour. It would ordinarily be useless, compatible or not, you’re not human, your Chakra network is too different, but we know it can be done, as Ginneka proves.”

“Me?” Azuki titled her head adorably. I heard a quiet squeal, and turned my head, only to see Eleanor looking as if nothing had happened. Ignoring that, I nodded.

“Yes, you. The Favour seems rather unsuited for battle. It probably has its uses, but it’s nothing special, at least not without significant strengthening. More importantly though, having an extra Territory available has its uses, especially when it comes to gathering resources.” Assuming that the number of Ether Spires continued to grow at a similar rate, the Territory would expand far faster in area, so more and more pockets of valuable elemental and other resources would go untapped, unless I established Vassal Territories to exploit them. There’s also another option of using it to protect our home, with an additional Territory Barrier. Yeah, that might well be wise…

“I see. I’m flattered, master, but I have to be honest, I don’t think I’m who you need. I’m a humble Zashiki-Warashi, meant to watch hearth and home, and… hey, no, no, no! Put me down!” Azuki squealed, waving her small arms and kicking her little legs as a figure in a maid outfit bounded down and picked her up, her long dark hair swaying, purple and green streaks catching the light.

“You insooolent little brat! Hyacinth thinks you should be hooonoured at the thought of helping the master! Akio has offered yooou an opportunity the other mistresses envy, I envy. Akio saved yooou, little doll, and you thank him by refusing his generosity?” Hyacinth’s eyes gleamed dangerously, and Azuki protested.

“But you’re strong! Scary, but strong! I’m just happy to be alive, and…”

“Alive thanks tooo the master and mistress Shaeula!” Hyacinth growled. “Have some pride! Yooou are my rival, little house spirit!”

“Calm down.” I patted Hyacinth on the shoulder, and her gaze softened, but I could tell she was still mad, as vines were starting to sprout around her, writhing like snakes. “Not everyone is as eager as you are.” As the others watched on, with a mixture of amusement and concern, I addressed Azuki as she struggled. “Hyacinth may be too aggressive, but she’s right. I want you to protect the home we all share. Isn’t that what you do? Azuki, Shaeula and I surely rescued you for a reason. Shaeula thought that she needed you, and I believe now it’s for this. We can’t always be there to protect our home and our family. Maybe you can do it.”

“I’m not strong. Otherwise I wouldn’t have been caught by that monster.” Azuki shuddered, remembering, her red eyes moist. “I just want a quiet, happy life from now on.”

“Don’t you like living with us all?” Kana asked, being somewhat familiar with Azuki. “I know Keomi-chan adores you, and the others play with you sometimes. You’ve seen our shrine go from a humble, run-down dump to something special, and now we even have the mansion estate in central Tokyo. Aren’t you happy?”

“I am, yes, but… I’m not good enough.” She admitted, insecure. “My last home is gone. I barely even remember it. Perhaps the family did not survive. I… I am still scared. Scared of caring again, of losing again. Of being hurt again. Far better to live in idleness and make no attachments.”

“Wrooong!” Hyacinth snapped, as if her words had touched a raw nerve, paining her. “Wrooong, wrong, wrooooooooong!” Her words were like howls, and she trembled like a leaf in the breeze. “Hyacinth knows your pain, yooour loss. I know it better than you, little doll! I was unable to protect her, to turn her frooom…” She clenched shut her mouth to stop the words escaping, blood flowing, scattering silver and red onto her uniform and Azuki’s frilly dress, unnoticed. “…it does not matter, nooot now. I have a name again, and a new home to protect, new family tooo love. Yes, I fear loooss, more than ever. But I cherish what I have nooow!” her words were heartfelt, and Shaeula was looking at her with concern, as was Asha. Protect her? Is Hyacinth starting to remember? If so… I wouldn’t pry. When Hyacinth was ready, she would talk, and we would help her with her regrets if it was possible.

“Akio won’t force you.” Eri agreed. “But what do you actually lose? We’re only asking you to do what you really want. You’ve had time to rest. I remember when Akio bought you for Shaeula. I was jealous. I mean, I was his girlfriend at the time. Now I’m still a little jealous, but…” Cat ears and tail sprang into life, adorning her. At that, David let out a low whistle. “…trust me. When the day comes and you need strength, don’t look back on now and regret because you were fearful, lazy and weak and chose poorly.”

“Hey, Akio’s other Vassals have it pretty easy.” Hinata joined in. “He’s ready to protect them, same as always. You’ll have it easiest. Your Territory will just be for using a barrier or gathering resources.” Hinata had grasped my point, understanding that in the future, as my Territory grew, other Territories would be more useful for securing specific areas, rather than holding ground. “And more to the point, don’t you think you were rescued for a reason? It’s not just to play around with us girls. Imagine the children. You could be their protector.”

“The children?” Azuki screwed up her face. “I’m not a doll, not a toy… but… I miss the children.” Her tone was mournful. “A home is no home without a family. Go on, put me down!” Azuki beat at Hyacinth with her small fists, and she chuckled, letting her fall. “Ouch, you did that on purpose, brute!” Azuki rubbed at her bottom through her long velvet skirt. “I’m honestly very lazy. I am. So I don’t want to work hard.”

“No, it seems not. In fact, I’ve never seen anyone less inclined to action. All you want to do is sleep, then occasionally play around. Even sending messages between here and the Material used to tire you out.” I grinned. “But… that’s why you’re perfect, I guess. Azuki…” I knelt down so I could look at her on her own level, more or less. “I’m not going to order you. Power isn’t a compulsion, it’s a privilege. But… if you don’t want to regret, take what’s offered.”

Azuki bit her lip, nodding. “I never want to go into the darkness again. I like the light, the sound of others. Even when I sleep, I…” she clenched small fists. “…feel those around me, and I know I am not alone, I have a home to dwell in. But… I’m scared. Of change.”

“Foolish little doooll. Not all change is bad.” Hyacinth scoffed, though her eyes seemed a little kinder. “But yooou are missing the most important poooint. Akio is the master of our household, the master of us. Dooo what he says, and be grateful!”

“I wouldn’t put it like that.” I scolded her gently. “But…” I picked up Azuki, smoothing down her wrinkled dress. “…compared to what you’ve suffered, this will be over in a flash, and then you’ll find your worries fading.”

She looked at me, her red eyes watery, before nodding, and speaking in a tiny, quiet voice. “If… if I must. Will… will there be much pain?”

I shook my head. “Some is unavoidable, but with my Chirurgery now, it shouldn’t be hard to minimise it.”

“All right then.” Shiro remarked. “We’ll leave you to it. Hyacinth, you watch over her. I’m going to cheer on Motoko and Natsumi.”

“I shall as well.” Shaeula agreed, and one by one the others moved to support the girls as they strove to improve themselves.

“Can we… observe?” Eleanor asked. They had experience of my Chirurgery, when I repaired Miss Aditi and Mrs Mary-Jane, but they were curious. Out of more than just a whim, if I’m not mistaken.

“Sure. Not that there’s much to see…” Not unless you have very good Eyes…

********

“That did hurt.” Azuki protested, pouting. “I feel strange.” She tottered on unsteady legs, trying to get used to her increased abilities. The Favour did strengthen all of her attributes, but it wasn’t a large gain. Even so, the small doll was likely much stronger than the average person now.

“Your network is closer to Ginneka’s than mine, so I had some experience. I made a few mistakes, so I’m sorry, but in the end we succeeded.” I patted her head, and she puffed out her cheeks, though she didn’t look too displeased. Beside me, Hyacinth nodded, smirking.

“Yooou did well. Though a true servant does nooot need to be bullied into doing her duty. But… go rest.” That was the greatest concession Hyacinth could give, and Azuki blinked at her, shocked.

“You heard her, you might as well.” I chuckled, touched at Hyacinth’s care. Despite their bickering and rivalry, though that’s mostly in Hyacinth’s head, I guess, they aren’t enemies. “Honestly, your duties won’t change much, you’ll just have a small Territory to manage, and be more aware of any threats to the home and our family.” While working on her, which had drained my lingering adherence, leaving me needing to go back to Tan for more, or destroy some other Favours, I had decided the best course of action, especially with my feelings of ominous Foresight, would be to have Azuki drop her Anchor at our new estate. There wasn’t many resources around to exploit, so it wouldn’t bring in much ether, but quickly pushing it to Rank 3 and constructing some Emplacements would give me peace of mind, and since we owned the land in the Material, attackers in both worlds would then be somewhat disadvantaged. The ether required can be ferried over by a convoy easily enough, and it’s a pittance that won’t slow our plans...

“Fine.” Azuki yawned. “I’m sleepy anyway.” Her eyes blinked slowly, and Hyacinth nodded, taking her from me.

“I will see her hooome. Have no fear.” Hyacinth promised, and I kissed her cheek as a reward, making her flush. I’m not going further in company. Brits are similar to the Japanese, in that public displays of affection aren’t a done thing.

As they left, Eleanor was looking a little troubled. Sir Arthur then spoke to me, his blue-eyed gaze intense. “Your abilities continue to impress. In fact, that is one of the reasons we have come. The Princess hesitates to speak of it. For some reason she seems a little shy around you now…”

“Sir Arthur!” Eleanor protested loudly, face red. “I am merely feeling the pressure of gratitude. Grandmother, mother and father all taught me to pay back the good twofold, and Henry and Richard to pay back the ill fivefold. Even now, Akio is allowing Aditi a chance at… well, a second chance. It speaks well of him.”

“You’re not being honest, Princess.” David grinned. “You’ve been feeling the weight of carrying everything on your shoulders. It’s good to share. Look man…” he said to me. “…you know we’ve had to deal with some shit. That stupid redhead, and Donovan, the fucking prick… well, it’s time to deal with it.”

“Mind your language, Mr Reckless.” Mrs Mary-Jane warned him. “I know it is an upsetting matter, but we are in company.”

“Yeah, yeah, got it, teach.” He shot back. “Anyway. Sarah… she’s had enough, and we can’t live in the past forever, none of us can.” His expression was calm, but I could see turmoil in his eyes. “So she asked us to destroy her Avalon, and the brats and the mad nun’s one too. So that we can strengthen ourselves, and get some damn closure. But… if it’s possible for little miss Indian and teach here to get back what they’ve lost, or at least a damn substitute…”

“It’s time. My heart is heavy, but we can’t put it off for ever. You say that you can feel danger coming, then we… have to be prepared, else our sacrifices, and overcoming the betrayal, the blood on our hands…” Eleanor’s hands were trembling a little, I could see even though she was wearing gauntlets. “…would be for nothing. We failed to do more than provoke several interlopers, who faced death rather than provide us any useful intelligence, so our reasons to leave up their Territories are no longer valid. Instead, it poses a significant risk, having thorns digging into the flesh of Britain.”

“A leader has to make hard choices. Your grandmother remembers the Second World War and the sacrifices that had to be made. This is no different.” Sir Arthur consoled her.

“Miss McLaughlin knows she has betrayed us, and also knows mere words and apologies are not sufficient.” Mrs Mary-Jane pointed out, her hands on her staff white with tension. “As I said before, I am still not sure if I want to take up this burden again. My husband and children worry so, but if I don’t…”

“A burden laid down is one others have to carry.” Sir Arthur finished.

“Well, I don’t mind carrying it, as I don’t do it alone.” I promised. “But if you are compatible with a future Favour, or can be made so, then I can aid you, if you decide you do want to.”

“I said he’d say that.” David laughed, giving me a fist bump. “In that case, the Princess has an offer to make you.”

“I do.” Eleanor said, expression grave. “With your skills, I believe you can extract the abilities from Donovan, Sarah and Mary Stuart, and make use of them in better ways then merely strengthening us.” She raised her hands, and water danced, showing off the ability to use elemental water I had taught her. “Instead, we would continue to learn in other ways. And… you can put their gifts to use. Though I would ask that you consider Mary-Jane, considering your kindness to Aditi, then we have no complaints if you take it for yourself. I trust you.” She said, her blue eyes staring into mine resolutely. “I respect you too. I don’t agree with everything you do…” She cast her glance back towards where Adamant and the Fae were feasting. “…but I believe you will not commit evil deeds, or betray those who trust you. We will pull the thorns and be ready.” She reached out a hand, and I took it. “If your premonitions are right and danger is coming, we will help one another.”

“Fine.” I grinned, shaking her hand, the gauntlet cool on my palm. “But honestly, I’m not confident I can extract or use the Linked Favours. But we can take a look.”

“Great. Then the sooner the better.” Once her mind was made up, Eleanor buried her misgivings and grief, and was all business. “By the way, grandmother would be happy to see you again. There’s much to discuss about the New Year Honours.” As we chatted, in the Material I advised Christina I would have to leave for the day, as I’d need my Material body in London. This shouldn’t take long, I hope. I think Donovan was a lightning-aspected Favour. I wonder which God was foolish enough to bless him. He gives Kondou Kazuo a run for his money in being scum…

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