ShipTeaser

  After parting from that man, Eleanor tio do her own duty, making sure to greet and talk to the other Chosen who supported Britain, as well as supporters from the political and business world who were making great tributions to their progress. Fortunately, Mary Stuart had left after talking to a few other people, though she spotted Max Power talking to Mary-Jane, Aditi and Sarah about something. I don’t see David, perhaps he’s left? He must be embarrassed about gettien…

  That had surprised Eleanor. David was rather rude and arrogant, but his skills were true. Wielding his mad the blessing of Caturix, David could stand against the hordes of terrible creatures that throhe London of Avalon, and in terms of the number of enemies killed, David was head and shoulders above everyone else. Of course, without Mary-Jane, David would have been killed three or four times over before now.

  As she watched the ods’ Chosen, a small thorn of doubt started creeping into her heart. Looking around, for a moment it was almost as though she could see the faces of those arouwisting into bnk masks with vicious, mog grins. Her visio dark for a moment, but blinking rapidly the illusion vanished. I’m… just tired and stressed. It’s been a trying day. As people talked to her cheerfully, she sed tales of their successes and failures, but couldn’t help but wonder just how far their loyalty went. No, even if they did betray me… poisoned daggers, my death? I ’t believe anyone would do that, stoop so low.

  Looking around, she spotted Akio, talking to the Prime Minister and a few other people. She couldn’t see the girls with him, and a few mier she spotted Raidre, who was still looking pale and depressed. On seeing him she scurried over. “Raidre, have you seen the girls that were apanying Akio?”

  He nodded, letting out a long sigh, his handsome features twisted. “Yes, I have.” He said. “They left along with most of his delegation, apanied by that damnable, uny maid.”

  Yes, there’s something off about her. She scares me a little. “Is she shtening? In a battle, surely you could handle her? I’ve seen your skills when you bee a seal, you are powerful indeed.”

  He shrugged. “I would not wish to wager my life on it. She looks fragile, but I feel power radiating from her. Perhaps in pure might I would be her match, but she strikes me as having a darker strength hidden within.” His intuition seemed to be telling him so, ae their retively short acquaintance, Raidre had been a good ally for her, and she trusted him. Now I am distrusting everyohis feels awful. It is his fault. Most annoying…

  “So, do you feel that they misled us as to their providence?” she queried, and Raidre dehat.

  “No, by the salt and the smoke, I think they speak true. Too much of what they speak of matches what I had heard, and I have spent this afternoon in deeper thought than the depths of the Thames. I do now hear mention that there was some trouble with that weasel princess and her maids, betrayal or some such, and that she has a errifying maid who is her of the Fae nor the Unseelie. What ce there is another such as her about?”

  “In that case, do you think we trust them?” she asked, and he looked at her curiously.

  “What is this, Princess? You trust easily enough normally. Surely you are not still sore over his women?”

  “No, as grandmother says, I have to let that go.” Well, perhaps I am still a little agitated, I admit. But I ’t dwell on it. They genuinely believe in what they are doing, and I have offered my aid, I o let this be the end of it, difficult though that is. “But even so, with the Ameris and their crimes…” her gaze strayed to the stist Christina Bakker, who was quite tipsy from all the alcohol around, her face flushed as she talked loudly and obnoxiously to her t guard. “… it’s hard for me to trust someone bearing such a message.”

  “What message?” Raidre asked, puzzled, and Eleanor was about to open her mouth, when she suddenly paused. Perhaps… taking precautions is wise.

  “Oh, just something hard to hear. It didn’t help me trust him, nor has the pany he keeps. But… grandmother was impressed, and to be ho, he does have a way about him.” Sometimes it is like it is hard to look away, and his words sink into my ears, and rattle around my brain, harder to ignore. Perhaps it simply annoys me fiercely that he makes some sense. “And he is right. He has asked for little iurn for his sel.”

  “If he is sort to that little weasel, then he would be a good ally for stormy seas and foggy nights.” Raidre mused. “Her father is Prince Shaetanao, one of the surviving Seelie Princes. His influence was waning, but he is on the asdant now, thanks to his daughter reg the Spring.”

  “I see. And just what is the Spring?” Eleanor asked, curious.

  “A sacred site of water, long lost to the Seelie Court. It was holy said to be irrecoverable. You would have a better ce of surviving being lost at sea in the midst of the fiercest storm, than surviving more than a moment without dying from the foul corruption of the Unseelie.”

  “So, they must be powerful then?” Eleanor asked, and Raidre nodded.

  “It seems so. Though sidering the rumours of the weasel princess being a worthless, arrogant brat, I doubt it was her strength that won the day.”

  “So if not her, then Akio?” He did beat David. What do I know about him? He’s able to outfight David, and has a simir skill. In addition, he is supposedly a healer, and somehow has allowed ordinary girls to enter Avalon. Reckless and foolhardy! I should give him a piey mind! In addition, he has the ability to share thoughts aions with those he loves, and use wind element quite profitly. Yes, it is easier to use elements here thaernal abilities grao Gods’ Chosen, but the speed, precision and duration… he has some skill.

  “He feels like a Noble Fae. No, like royalty.” Raidre snorted. “’t you feel his League?”

  “League?” Eleanor asked, puzzled by the term.

  “The strength of his existehe Fae snorted bitterly. “He’s keeping it hidden so as to not draw attention, but in moments where he is angry or distracted it leaks out. Now League isn’t the same as strength, some of those with strong, deep existences are nothing special in terms of might, but ordinarily League grow as orehemselves. Yours is starting to gradually increase, Princess.”

  “So, you’re saying he’s developed himself that much?”

  “It seems so. He’s got the charm of a Fae too. Best you not be ensnared by him too.”

  “That will never happen.” Eleanor said ftly. “I think I’m too old for his tastes.”

  “So cold you are, Princess.” Raidre snorted. “But we were talking about his strength. I dare say I am not his match, even were I to berserk in my seal form.”

  “I see. Well, thank you for your dour. That helps me put some pieces of the puzzle together.” He’s strong then. If Raidre isn’t his match, I’d have no hope of besting him in a battle. I doubt he could defeat me in the armour of the Green Knight, with my regeion, but I would surely not be able to strike him down myself… so he likely has little to gain by lying.

  “Damn him, now he has me sed-guessing everything.” She swore.

  “Princess?” Raidre said, ed, and she flushed, waving her hand to dismiss her outburst.

  “It’s nothing. I’m merely trying to chart the best course. The presence of that woman…” she looked at Christina Bakker. “… and the usual veiled threats from our ever-annoying Mary Stuart are pying on my mind. Speaking of…” It would sooime to front their Ameri guest.

  “I see. Well, try not to let it rile you up. On stormy seas, the first to die are those who lose their heads.”

  “I’ll bear that in mind, Raidre. Thank you for your perspective.” When Max Power leaves the others alone, I’ll seek them out. I could use some calming versation…

  ********

  “Well, are we ready?” The Prime Minister asked. Eleanor was in a rather stately feren within the Pace, sitting beside her grandmother, who was now wearing regal robes and a small diadem, looking every inch the monarch. Gerard Huhe Fary was there as well, and they had two aides sitting in as well. Though of course Akio is here too. She looked over, seeing him sitting with Shige Fujiwara, representing Japan and their support.

  I am lucky I had time to talk to Aditi and the others, to calm down. It had been harmless enough gossip, though Sarah had greatly enjoyed reting the way that David had lost, and apparently it was an astonishi rounds to ohe speed and fighting skills Akio had dispyed gave credeo Raidre’s earlier theories that it was he who had likely recaptured the Spring for this weasel princess. She found her gaze going to him, and he looked rinning, making her look away, face red with annoyance. Damn it. Now he thinks I am paying him attention, which I most certainly am not!

  Taking a deep breath she calmed herself. This is no time to be distracted. I am the face of Britain, the Green Knight, chosen by the Green Man. I never asked for this, but over the months I have stained my hands with the blood of the foul creatures that haunt our Avalon, suffered many wounds abacks… I will not back down now, let America get away with mistreating and stealing ood citizens! “Prime Minister, if you would.” She said calmly, and the blonde man grinned cheerfully, ign the atmosphere so thick it could be cut with a knife. One of the aides opehe door, and Christina strolled in, trailed by her guard, Titan.

  “Well, do excuse me…” she said, pulling out a chair, slightly unsteady still. “... I probably shouldn’t have had that st gss of wine. But it was so good. I’m normally too busy for leisure, but this time…well, it’s all work, right?” She grinned, her b coat and dress bination wildly out of pce. Titan stood beside her, gl at everyohough his expression faltered a little as he saw Akio. Christina spotted him too, and waved cheerfully. “Oh, isn’t this a surprise? I was supposed to be heading to Japan at some point, but it’s certainly more practical to do both meetings at once. Don’t suppose you speak for Japan?”

  “He speak for the Chosen. I speak for Japan politically.” Shige Fujiwara said coldly, and Christina ughed.

  “Oh, so scary. I normally leave dealing with angry old men to Adam. Speaking of…” She reached into her b coat and Eleanor tensed, only to rex as she brought out a fancy-looking tablet. She tapped in a passcode a up. “It’ll take a little while to ect, so why don’t we have a little talk? I’m curious.” Her smile was somehow perverted, and it made Eleanor feel unfortable.

  “About what?” The Prime Minister said. “I think you’re fetting why you are here, Miss Bakker.”

  “Oh please. Christina, or even Chris will do. I sometimes ao ‘hey, crazy bitch’ or ‘you idiot’ but names are so muicer.” She ughed. “I’m here as I’m an important enough member of Project Star Mirror to show we are taking this seriously, but I’m also expendable enough to be bad as a hostage.” She grinned. “Though if you try, Titan will have something to say about that. Though two versus one… how’d you feel, big guy?”

  “Not that fident miss.” He said, and Christina smiled broadly.

  “There you have it, he’ll… wait, not fident?” she looked at him bnkly.

  “Yeah, I’ve been thinking about it, and…” he looked at Akio doubtfully. “You be holding out on me, right?”

  “Well, keeping low-key is something I’ve learo do.” Akio admitted. “But Miss Bakker…”

  “Don’t call me that, I said it’s too stuffy.” She pined.

  “Fine. Christina. Even if Titan was able to defeat us, do you think that would matter? The Pace is crawling with Chosen.”

  “True. Well, I guess he’s here more to keep an eye ohan anything else. I do tend to get ed up in my work. Speaking of… word’s going around that you’re not a Physical type leaning intth. You have me regretting that Adam’s goons blew it. You’d have been a fasating subject. Those that are tough and those that heal are the best.”

  Eleanor shivered at that. I don’t even want to imagine what I’d gh uheir care, ohey realised what my gift was. I’m even more angry now. Gng at her grandmother she could see the quiet rage in her eyes, masked by her professional demeanour.

  “If you want to experiment so badly, do it on yourself.” Akio snapped.

  “I said I would if I could, I’d give anything to be able to, but I wasn’t lucky.” She retorted, and theablet ected. “Oh, Adam’s here. Hey boss, you good?”

  The powerfully built man with sandy hair and hazel eyes let out a long sigh. “Christina, you’ve learned nothing from this I see. If I didn’t send you away for a while, Christopher would have had you disappear permaly.”

  “Oh, Chris is such a shallow thinker. I didn’t do anything bad to his son and daughter. I was just giving them some advice…”

  “Enough. I apologise.” He said, his voice strong and anding respect. “I see we have some ued guests.” He addressed the Japanese delegation. “You… either Shige Fujiwara or Kira Ichijou, I presume.”

  “The first.” Shige decred coldly.

  “I see. Well, it’s an honour to address su august light of one of our stau allies.” He said without a trace of shame. “And then… Akio Moonstone Oshiro. I wish we could have met under… better… circumstances.”

  “I think what you would sider better I’d have to give a hard pass.” Akio snorted, and Eleanor inwardly cheered him. “I’m not averse to some experimentation, knowledge is power, after all. But I wouldn’t ask ao do what I wouldn’t do to myself.”

  “Lucky!” Christina said enviously, but everyone ignored her.

  “Yes, rumours have reached us about miraculous healings ing from Japan. Even though you’ve ged a lot of your mobile infrastructure so we ’t use phoercepts so easily, and ged up your encryptions oer, we still have ears everywhere. After all, aren’t most of the spy satellites in orbit ours? Well, and the ese. Really, should you be wasting time with recriminations, sidering what’s going on there? Well, I expect you don’t know what we do.”

  “Actually, we know more than you think.” Akio shook his head. “But I’m taking up too much of your time. I’m here simply to lend support to the British ti here. So, time to start your apologies.”

  He’s almost likeable right now. Seeing him shut down the Ameri behind the suffering of our citizens pleases me.

  “Apologies? On what grounds?” Adam frowned. “You are rather biased, Akio. Likewise you, Princess Eleanor. Those of you who carry this dangerous gift are hardly objective. Don’t misuand us. We bear no malice for you, you had no choi the matter. But the dangers you present are too grave to be left to ce.”

  Eleanor was fbbergasted by his arrogance. “Is this America’s stance?” she demanded, and Adam scoffed.

  “America’s stance? Right now we barely have a stan anything. Unless you like infmmatory rhetoric. lenty of that. I’ll be gd when it’s ele time. No, we have no stance, only the truth. You… Gods’ Chosen… su aggrandising name. I’m hardly religious, but that’s bsphemy, no? Well, you Chosen are akin to votile nuclear ons, ready to go off at a moment’s notice. Obviously nht-thinking nation allow that to persist.”

  “If I may.” Mr Hunter spoke up. “That may mean you arrest your own citizens, but fn nationals such as the British and Japanese you kidnapped would be outside your jurisdi.”

  “Just as terrorists were during the War on Terror? Strange… I have the files here.” He smiled, but there was no humour in it, and Christina giggled at his iy. “Yes, extraordinary rendition. Our British friends in MI5 and MI6 had no issue helping us uhe aegis of the greater good, and preventing terrorist attacks. And what could these terrorists do? Blow up a bus? Shoot up a school? What could you do, Akio? We hardly have a good grasp on your abilities, but sidering you took down a squad of our most elite deep cents, and several rather famous meraries we privately tracted for the capture, if you wanted, couldn’t you do far worse?”

  Eleanor looked at Akio then, searg his face as his expression ged. Those words seem to have struck a chord with him.

  “I’m not stupid. I’ve seen what a Chosen do with their gift, in Kyoto.” He said coldly.

  “Yes, a thousand dead. One person, killing a third as many who died during the nine-eleven attacks. It could have been more, no? But I uand that the attackers were fortunately killed.” The Director retorted, his expression on the s knowing.

  “True. But that argument is specious.” The Prime Minister jumped in. “We ’t simply arrest people for what they might do, simply for existing. As you said, they had no choice.”

  “Mr White.” The Queen spoke, surprising Eleanor, who watched her with rapt fasation. “We find it hard to believe that the Ameris, with all your resources, even if the administration is paralysed currently, is not aware that the Gods’ Chosen did not arise by mere ce. If we do nothing, the world will be overtaken by chaos and will surely fall, America as well.”

  “So some of them say.” Adam said. “I ’t rule it out, of course. We ck suffit data. But you offer introvertible proof that we hem? Even if we set aside the dangers of their powers, which are beyond imagination… imagi. Eic devastation, political upheaval, death aru on a global scale. Imagine someone who could duplicate currency or turn base materials into preetals. Someone who effortlessly trol minds. A bioterrorist that make pgues. Humanity would be set back decades, that’s if we even survive.”

  I don’t know… we be that strong? Eleanor could certainly prove a troublesome oppo with her incredible healing, and she could even regrow lost limbs given time, but against the might of a nation’s military she would be helpless. David and the others as well. But the accusation seemed to resoh Akio, who looked a touch stri, and she once more had to wonder how strong he was.

  “We also have creatures from myth able to walk among us. The day could well dawn when humanity is no longer dominant. we allow that? These powers don’t belong to those of you who wield them. They e from the immaterial. Many of them call it the Astral, or the Boundary, but I prefer… the .” He was talking passionately now, quite unlike anything they had expected. Eleanor had thought there would be excuses, offers of pensation, not this… sheer self-assurahat his as were correct.

  “It’s an invasion by proxy, you’re all trojan horses. Your power will open the door to those who gave it to you, and they will burst free, like vengeful daemons. But…” his gaze was impassive. “… as you say, your Majesty, we hardly dist the hough all our testing has shown that with enough firepower even these Chosen fall easily enough. I believe in sce, and the military. If any otherworldly foe ihe US army will still triumph. But I make the hard, bloody choices that others are too afraid to do. Just like Britain did when it aided us with our renditions in the War on Terror. These Chosen ’t be left to run free. Power has to be directed, and even if they are the gateway to a hreat, if we ma properly, if we leash these dangers, bind them, revent the worst.”

  “That way leads to cruelties beyond belief. Have we leaned nothing from the Sed World War?” The Queen said, horrified.

  “It’s not the same.” Christina said. “That was folly. The poor victims of sce then were people, just the same as you or I. But yranddaughter, or Akio over here, still be called people? The maid earlier definitely couldn’t be…” She shut up as Akio’s fist pulverised the desk he was sitting at to splinters. Everyone jumped, all eyes on him, Titan moving to cover Christina.

  “I suggest you choose your words more carefully. Yes, they are people. You might as well say that a heavyweight boxer isn’t a person, as his punches kill when a normal person ’t. Eleanor here, she’s a person. I’m a person. The spiritual beings, they’re people too. It’s hard to accept…” he shook his head. “It means that our hands are bloody. The Boundary is rife with hostile yet still sapient creatures. I dare say the Princess knows that pain too.” He looked at her sympathetically, and she felt a little happy that someone else uood her. Though those horrible fish-men and goblins are nothing I feel sympathy for. Not after the times they have tried to kill me…

  “That’s a false equivalence…” Christina insisted, though she had sobered up and was trembling now, as was Titan, which surprised her.

  “No it isn’t. Well, following yument, Mr White, if there ower that wasn’t given by these beings, but anyone could achieve, it’d alleviate your s?”

  “Some. Managing superhumans, who kill without ons and do other potentially dangerous feats, I don’t know if it’s possible. But then…” he looked at him and Shige Fujiwara. “… Japan is trying, no?”

  “Yes.” Shige agreed. “You ot stop the tide, or turn back the clock. It is best to exercise gentle trol than try and start a war. You purge and limit your own Chosen, but those such as the ese will not. Your way leads to ruin. We choose the path of cooperation, and it works for us.”

  “Because Akio here is reasonable. For now. What if he bees unreasonable? you stop him then? If he was to walk into your Diet in a bad mood one day… imagihe bloodshed.”

  Eleanor looked at Shige, curious to his ahat’s true. There’s something dangerous about him, and he’s already shown his selfishness with women, although they did say he did it for them…

  “I trust that he will not bee unreasonable, as you so put it. If he was the sort of man who would, we would never have trusted him with the daughters of Japanese nobility. No, I think you will find his unreasonableness will only occur if you threaten him or those he cares fain. For those he loves, he would bee the devil itself, that was what you said, was it not, Akio-san?”

  “If you e against me, I might show mercy. But go against the i, and you’ll see that your predis on what could happen if a Choses all their efforts could be right.”

  Eleanor watched him speak, rather impressed with his words. Defend others more than one’s own self. I approve of that. Though he should calm down. “Akio, please calm yourself. Don’t let him rile you up. This is our meeting.”

  He visibly gathered his poise, nodding. “Sorry. But knowing that our citizens are bei captive still, after having suffered, and the shit this guy is spouting… I’ll be quiet.”

  Well, he apologised. I suppose I should respect that. “Thank you. Grandmother, Prime Minister. I don’t think we are being productive, arguing against each other.”

  “Yes, we should talk about what we hope to achieve.” The Prime Minister said. “Director White, it’s clear you have no iion to offer a formal apology on behalf of the Uates. I uand that. I’m not even sure if you have that authority. But the matter of the Gods’ Chosen is not a simple o is currently the most strictly kept secret that Govers worldwide hold…”

  “It is simply a matter of time before the floodgates open.” Adam shrugged. “We know what is going on worldwide. a, South Korea, Brazil, Germany, South Africa… we see it all, and like a bottle of coke shaken too much, the pressure is growing, and what lies within ’t be tained. What do you think will happen then?” His gaze narrowed, and Eleanor watched as he addressed the Japanese delegation.

  “You already had protests and riots on your streets. sidering the Japanese have a reputation for respeg authority and a ck of aggression, with the situation already so infmed… when they discover that the ese behind the attack effectively have ungodly pranted from eldritch sources, and that the Gover is keeping the hat many of their own citizens share such… do you think the situation will be calm?” His smile was knowing. “In a world with anything possible, who trust that their lives won’t be turned upside down in a mere moment? When superheroes csh in iobody sees the iable dead, but this is real life. The poor already envy, fear and hate the rich. But when those of the huddled masses realise they ever have this sinister power, are doomed to forever be at the whims of the strong, won’t they rage impotently? But some… some will rise up. It will be anarchy.”

  Eleannced over to Akio, seeing what he would say, but surprisingly he turo Shige Fujiwara, and a surge of jade energy shimmered, swallowing their voices as they talked in silence, Akio gesturing strongly, Shige nodding slowly. What are they discussing that they ot tell us? Turnitention back to the s and the smirking Christina holding it, Eleanor listerandmother speak again.

  “Mr White, perhaps what you say is true. But America is a new try. It does not hold the knowledge we do. This is iable. You call these powers dangerous, a gateway to invasion, perhaps. We call these powers necessary, to defend from those who would do us harm. It is a tragedy that those burdened by the will of the Gods wield these powers, but…”

  That’s not true though, is it? Eleanor’s thoughts turo Motoko and Natsumi, the two ordinary girls, who had cimed to have fought in Avalon. Grandmother has also mentioned rumours of those desded from the Fae, who lived in long isotion in areas of Britain that y closest to Avalohey suffer siess and pain from the ck of exposure to it. It was a shame that when the pces grandmother knew of were iigated, they were all deserted, though some appeared to have been in use retly.

  “Power that ’t be trolled is nothing but a curse.” The Director decred. “Imagine if anyone could make an atomib out of simple household chemicals and water. Every psychopath, suicidal person, or even unruly children could wipe out a city in a moment of madness or a fit of pique. Civilisation would end. Now, I am not saying this situation is that grave, yet, but all my instincts tell me that disaster is ing. I am a proud Ameri, your Majesty, I will never let it fall, even if I have to wade in blood, or purge whole ses of it. So long as America survives even battered and broken, I have done my duty.”

  “But if you don’t treasure and nurture your Chosen, then tries such as a who do will have the advahey’ve already targeted Japan, you think they won’t attack you?” Eleanor pointed out, and the Director shook his head.

  “Of course they will. But the Ameri military is the best in the world. While the number of these co-called Gods’ Chosen are limited. In the end, we’ll win. But you misuand. Just like we turn an average man or woman into a productive soldier with enough hard training and ditioning, so too the proud Ameris who have been afflicted by this be turned into safe, obedient warriors. But we simply ot let them ruhat way lies disaster.”

  Eleanor felt a wave of disgust wash over her. Henry would hate the way he is talking, as if soldiers are simply well-trained, loyal dogs, not patriotic heroes. “That is no different from scription.” She snorted. “Have you learned nothing from Vietnam?”

  “Oh, we’ve learned. And do not bme us, Princess Eleanor. We weren’t the ones who scripted you first. Which so-called divine being, daemon of myth, chose you?”

  She closed her mouth and refused to answer, and moments ter the green glow died down. Akio’s eyes were hard, and Eleanor found herself having to look away from his intense, grey gaze.

  “I think you’re misuanding something, Mr Director.” Akio said witheringly.

  “Oh, how so?” he answered.

  “These powers aren’t limited to those of us Chosen. We were just the best didates.” Akio snorted. “In fact, anyone learn and grow strong. The power doesn’t have to e from the Gods, as you fear.”

  “Oh? And what makes you cim this?” he asked, leaning forwards on camera.

  “First. Return all our people without dey. Ours and the British. And when any other try you’ve been screwing over works it out and es calling, do the same for them.”

  Christi out a sigh. “I’m not a monster you know. I wasn’t trying to break them. But progress needs sacrifices. We have our own healers now, so their bodies are mostly fine, but… well, let’s just say they’ll need an awful lot of selling and care…” her expression actually seemed apologetio, I definitely do not like her. Not o.

  “So you said before.” Akio said, taking over the meeting. It’s rather hard to look away. There’s definitely something captivating about him whes angry. Eleanor found herself admiring the strey of his eyes, before she realised what she was doing and looked away yet again, flushed. It seemed not to be just her, as Christina Bakker, despite being the object of his ire, was shiftilessly with a red face, her breathing fast.

  “We want them back. Even if it takes years, so long as we soothe their madness, heal their minds, it’ll be worth it. If they were your brothers, sisters, fathers, mothers, children… wouldn’t you want them returned?”

  “They were never here.” The Director said. “We found them in some unnamed try, and are simply returning those we rescued. America is not at fault.”

  “The brass neck you have!” Eleanor spat. “That you could lie so brazenly…”

  “Do calm down, Princess.” Mr Hunter said, having spoken for the first time in a while. “This is simply politics. If we bme the US then our retions will suffer. Trade, information sharing, military cooperation, diplomatifluences… all will be put at risk. So we swallow er and do what is right for Britain.”

  “He is right, granddaughter.” The Queen agreed. “We share your indignant rage. But we must try and save our lost citizens above all else.”

  “So, we have an agreement. The US ducted ions, this was simply all a… misuanding.”

  “Hardly.” Akio snorted derisively.

  “Oh, how so?” Adam asked.

  “Japan wants all the data you’ve gathered on a, and instant and plete access to all data going forward, be it political, eic, or especially military and Choseed matters.”

  “And you think that firstly, I have the authority to disclose such, and sedly, that I will? sidering you have already received rather favourable terms from the US already, such as the F-22 Raptor purchases, debt fiveness, trade cessions and more. That was to end the matter.”

  “Yes, it was. But this is a new matter. I am going to offer you proof of what you want.” His smile was cold, and Eleanor felt a little thrill as the arrogant Director seemed to shrink under his ire. “I’ll deliver cast-iron proof that these powers don’t have to be from the sources you fear.”

  His gaze narrowed. “And why would you do that? It seems quite the secret, a trump card for Japan if you know how.”

  “It is. But just holding the card isn’t enough, you’d require much… research.” Christina giggled at that. “Besides…” he tinued. “Japan is angry, furious with you all. I am personally as well. But we have bigger threats. You areirely wrong, Mr Director. Dangers are already here.”

  “I see. a. It makes sehe man grinned. “Will you share information on that as well?”

  “That depends on what intelligehe US shares with us.” Shige Fujiwara said coldly.

  “I see. So, we have a deal.” He said, and Akio shook his head.

  “Not quite.” He turo the Prime Minister and the Queen. “I’m sure you have a few outstanding issues with the US that could use a bit of grease on the wheels. Now would be the time to ask, as I have a feeling that Mr Director here will be more than happy to liaise with the right people.”

  “You’re pushing your luck.” Adam said coldly, but Akio merely shrugged.

  “This time we have what you want to know. It’s only natural to get the maximum be. Besides…” he looked over at Eleanor, smiling a little. “… I do want us to be friends and allies, so what better way to show my siy thaing them a few bes.”

  “There is that matter with the Falknds, and the US refusing to support us on…” Mr Hunter began, and the Prime Minister agreed.

  “Oh yes, and we are getting rather restricted on the diplomatic cables…”

  As they id out several issues, Adam White was watg coldly, as was Akio, and Eleanor found herself watg him again. I still ’t get a handle on what sort of a man he is. He frustrates me to no end, but…

  “Is that it?” Adam asked when they were done. “I could make it happen. But how do I receive this proof?”

  “You don’t o do anything until you receive it.” Akio said fidently. “But if you do and we don’t get what is promised, trust me. You’ll regret it.”

  “I regret my team failed. No, I suppose I should say no such team ever existed, did it?”

  “No, just a few foolish private military tractors who work for me now.” Akio agreed. “Now, farewell Mr Director. I’ll send you your prize shortly.”

  “Christina, try not to cause more trouble. Though if you disappear overseas, Christht rejoice.”

  “So rude! I was only trying to help his kids!” she decred. “I’ll be back soon. So tell the b to get ready! This trip has been fruitful, I’ve seen a lot.”

  The s blinked off, and Christina put the tablet away. “All right then. Now I’m curious. How are you going to pay off Adam? He’ll be really mad if you cheat him. I don’t think he’d like that at all.”

  “Firstly… out.” He gestured to the two aides. “The Prime Minister, Mr Hunter, and obviously the Queen and Princess Eleanor stay. Titan, you get the hell out too. Don’t worry, I just want to talk to Christina here.”

  Titan exged a gh her. “I don’t think I . I be tasked with keeping the miss safe and…” Suddenly Titan was smmed up against the wall, a hand around his throat, his whole massive bodyweight levered up by one hand. As his legs kicked helplessly, Eleanor and the others blinked in shock at the speed Akio had moved, and the strength he dispyed. David was right, he must have an ability like his Battle Hymn.

  “I’m not asking.” Akio said, as the two aides rushed out quickly, not even looking back. “I’m going to discuss somethi. And the fewer people who know, the better.”

  “It’s all right, Titan…” Christina was sweating. “… from the files we have on him, he won’t hurt a woman. I…should be fine?” her tone was hopeful at the end. “He wouldn’t upset Adam like this, or ruin their gains.”

  “I’m ashamed to say I’ve killed women.” He said. “Now they be just as dangerous as men. Wele to equality, I’m not sure I like it.” At that, Eleanor let out a little gasp. Was he involved in Kyoto? With strength like that… at the look of pain on his face, Eleanor felt some sympathy for him. That must have been terrible. Fortunately I’ve not had to fight anods’ Chosen, though I know the military has had to… subdue some running wild.

  “Titan, just step out for a minute.” Christina said at st, and Akio let him go. As he rubbed at his bruised ned wheezed, he followed the aides out, and once mreen energy surged.

  “All right then. Christina, time to talk.” He said, looking at her ily. “You said you’d even sell your body, if it could get you access to knowledge, right?”

  She shivered, surprised, eyes going wide. “Yoing to let me have that maid? No, that ’t be it…”

  “Better.” He said. “What you really want.”

  She licked her lips, putting together the pieces from the versation with Adam. “I see. Fasating. So…” she tugged at the nee of her dress, flushed. “… I’m fully aware of the process. But with strength like you showed against Titan… pfft, he assured me he was the stro…” she ughed, shrill and nervous. “…go easy on me. I like to think I’m not too ugly, so you should have fun. But… are we doing it here? I… well, I suppose it doesn’t matter. It’s only basic biology, I’ll sider it putting on a lecture…”

  “Akio, how could you?” Eleanor shot to her feet, angered. “Exploiting a woman for sex when you have so many fiancées already? And in front of Grandmother and me! I was just starting to faintly think you might be…” she trailed off, seeing everyone looking at her with pity.

  “Do sit down, granddaughter. We think you and she have misuood.”

  Indeed, as she cooled her head, her cheeks fming, Eleanor realised that Akio had a look of awkward disgust on his face, and he shook his head. “o panic, Christina, Princess. I get that I don’t seem to be a likeable person in your eyes, but I’m still a bit hurt. I’m not saying I want sex with you, Christina, I’m just saying that if you are willing to go that far for yoals, your research, then… if you were to be the proof I showed your Director, instead of someone else, wouldn’t you be prepared to pay me anything for it?”

  Christina wavered, her face hot and her eyes watering. “I don’t know whether to be relieved or offended. I like to think I’ve got a good body. Meo like my tits, I see the guys at Star Mirror staring all the time.”

  “That doesn’t matter to me. I’m not some beast. If I want to have sex, I have girls I love more than happy to spend some time with me. Likewise if they feel lonely, want intimao, what I want from you…” His grey eyes bored into her blue ones. “… is colboration. If I want to know something, you’ll talk.”

  “You wao spy? They may call me a crazy, mad stist bitch, but believe it or not, I am a patriot.” She said, a little offended.

  “I fail to see the problem. Didn’t we all agree nothing happened after this deal is done? We get our people back, and while I am sure we are going to be very angry about how they were treated by you and yours, they’re alive. And I think I help them.” He turned and addressed the Queen and Prime Minister. “I have a vassal who has mental healing abilities. It really helped some of the victims of the first Kyoto i.”

  First Kyoto i? Oh yes, the terrorist death cult, but Henry says that was just a front and likely the ese as well, probing. A number of young people died…

  “I would be happy to take charge of the British returnees until they are in a stable dition, as a token of friendship?”

  “We talk about that.” The Queen agreed. “We do not care for the idea of letting our citizens nguish away from home for any lohan we must, but if they be helped, we are not too proud to ask for support.”

  “So…?” Christina asked, and Akio shook his head.

  “Sot off topic there. As I said, ohe deal is done, we have no further flicts, right? We ’t afford them. a is dangerously gathering Chosen and turning them to state tools, and I doubt their ambitions will stop at Japan.”

  “True.” She admitted. “But even so, you are askio spy, basically…”

  “For your allies. And if you thought that it was justifiable doiraordinary rendition on your allies, then this should be no different. Besides…” he leaned in close, his voice a sultry whisper, and she flushed, her chest heaving. “… this is what you dreamed of. You run experiments that were forever beyond your reach.”

  She gulped, throat w, and her face was red. “I do want to probe the mysteries of what they call the Astral. All the mysteries…”

  “It’s a miraculous pce.” He tinued, and Eleanor found herself reddening too. Is this how he seduced those young girls? How… how i!

  “What sort of information… I ’t jeopardise our National Security…”

  “Of course you ’t. Nor would I ask you to. But you are lead researcher on Project Star Mirror, didn’t you say? Knowledge is power. Perhaps I even share a little, if you please me…”

  “All… all right.” She nodded, like a mouse before a snake. “Just… just a little. Adam’s no fool though, he’ll know something is up.”

  “Perhaps, but what will he do? Because you’ll have a pipelio me, which he’ll want to exploit, if he’s as ruthless as he seems.”

  “What do I o do?” Her eyes glittered eagerly, only to dim as Akio struck the back of her neck gently, before she slumped unscious in his arms.

  “I don’t wao see what I’m doing here. And now… it’s time for our own agreements.” Akio put Christina ft on her ba a desk, pulling the hem of her dress down as it rode up. “Fujiwara-san, if you would.”

  “We wish to be closer allies. a and other powers threaten everyone equally, as we have seen. Firstly, a non-aggression and mutual defence pact, that allows Chosen to be deployed to aid against invading enemy Chosen. As Kyoto showed, Chosen are required to bat Chosen, and both our tries have a modest popution in parison to a.” He then asked for closer ties in terms of espiohe military, ey and more.

  “That is not something we agree on easily.” Mr Hunter said. “Information sharing and eic cooperation, fine, and we do want that free trade deal. But we’ll have to put it before Parliament, which is difficult as we ’t discuss our real iions as the public is in the dark…”

  As they hashed out cooperation Akio had done something to the sleeping woman. Eleanor could feel the prickle of aether, and she stirred, moaning painfully. A few mier he sighed. “All done. I’ve just drilled a basic seven chakra work though. No way I’m generous enough to go any further. It should prove to that Director that power be learned if one has the will and the knowledge. Now when she wakes up we just have to mislead her about how this was achieved. And I suppose warn her about the dangers of the Boundary. It wouldn’t do to have her kill herself doing something stupid before she ever gets baerica.”

  “Learned?” The Queen asked. “We do not quite uand.”

  “Here’s the thing. I believe the visions the Diviner had.” He said early. “And I don’t want yranddaughter here to die. I have to admit, I find the way she’s been dismissive of the way we live our lives has hurt. But I’m not self-tred enough not to uand people have different views. Even now she thought I was some sort of predatoing to extort our diplomatic guest for sex here in front of you all. Damn, it really wounds my pride.” He smiled sadly, and Eleanor felt rather bad. But… well, Christina misuood as well, it isn’t just my fault!

  “You must five my granddaughter. We are sorry, but she is rather sheltered. Unlike Richard and Henry, she has mostly kept out of the spotlight. Being a female Royal is hard and thankless work, though we do not wish you to feel we are pining. There are privileges too.”

  “I speak for myself, grandmother.” Fine. “I get that you’re not a bad person. Motoko and Natsumi, they do adore you, and you them. I’m not blind to that. And you helped us get cessions from the USA, which you didn’t have to. But… you must see how it looks from the outside. It won’t be just me who doesn’t care for your private life!” Eleanor was shaking, her vision going dim for a moment as her brain worked. “Look, it was horrible. Uncle was caught up in that sdal, and everyone was saying terrible things about our whole family. It’s not fair. I… do you think I don’t read the tabloids?”

  “The situation here is quite different. All parties involved are in love, and have the blessing of their families. In fact, you could say it is a very Royal arra.” Shige said, his expression kind, which just made Eleanor feel worse, bile rising iomach.

  “Yes, in my head I see that. But… it doesn’t seem right.”

  “I know.” Akio said. “I know. Trust me. Nobody has agonised over this more than me. But that’s why we all holy share our worries, talk and support each other. We chose this path, and as long as we are happy, I don’t care what others think even if I’d like you to uand and be supportive more than anyone, Princess.”

  Huh? “Me? Why?”

  “Because we’ll be w together for a long time. You might not believe the Diviner’s words, but I do. So we have to have a good w retionship. Better yet, a friendly oo that end… Fujiwara-san, are you ready?”

  “Kira and Itsuki will have no excuses now.” He said, and Eleanor looked puzzled.

  “Yeah. Well, Tsumura-san managed fine didn’t he? I won’t say there’s no risk for older people, but with Ether Healing having Ranked up, I’m fident even if the shock gives you a heart attack or stroke I fix it.”

  Eleanor was fused by the terms used, but she gathered it was something to do with Avaloher fred and she could feel ripples iraces of ether around her, before Fujiwara-san groaurnihly white. For a number of mihey all watched in silence, unsure of what was going on.

  “Yeah, it hurts. I think the older you are the more it does.” Akio sympathised with the twitg elderly man. “But you’ll feel better soon.” Eleanor noticed Akio’s eye was glowing a shimmering amber. “And… done.” He grinned.

  “That was… an experience I do not… care to repeat. And now I itch abominably, like is in my skin.” Shige Fujiwara wheezed. “But I fess, many of the stant aches and pains I have lived with for many years have now been repced by new ones.”

  “Yeah I gave you the full tune-up. Miyu was worried about you, you know. She doesn’t want you to die. I think with the fixes I’ve doo clogged veins, arteries, your worn-down joints and your weakening kidneys, plus the stat boost overall, you’ll be around a few more years yet.”

  “How… f.” He said, stretg gingerly, amazed at the freedom of movement as he rolled his arms. “I suppose this was iable. Japan ot facertainly caused by one of us dying iroubled times. So, how much should I pensate you?”

  “For Miyu’s beloved grandfather, you get the family dist. Free of course. Besides…” Akio gnced over slyly at Eleanor and the rest of the British delegation. “… it’s advertising.”

  “Just what did you do?” Eleanor asked. “That was some sort of ability. Just what God do you serve?”

  “I don’t serve any. I’m grateful to Tyr and Tsukuyomi, I guess?” he said, and Eleanor was shocked. Two? Is that why he has such abilities? Is that even possible? Tyr is a Nod of battle, I remember it from my cssics study at Uy. That might expin his strength, but…

  “Look.” He tinued. “Just like I did with Christina…” he he sleeping woman, who muttered something inprehensible, drooled and rolled over on the desk. “… I performed Chirurgery. It opens up the ability to access the Boundary, what you’ve been calling Avalon, I believe. In addition, it pulls iher, making oronger, faster, smarter… it’s nothing pared to a Chosen like us, Princess, but it makes a big differeo an ordinary person.”

  “So that was what you meant when you talked to Mr White regarding what he wished for. We are impressed.” The Queen said, shrewdly.

  “Yes, though what Fujiwara-san got was the premium course, Christina here got the eodel. It’ll be enough to prove my point and satisfy the agreement, but I’m not foolish enough to give an untrustworthy mad stist and a potentially hostile goveroo much of a gift. Speaking of gifts… your Majesty, I believe you should receive this too. Bear in mind, only two people in the world that we know of do this, me and Shaeu Tu Shae Dannan, Duchess of the Spring of Clear Refles.”

  That’s the Fae that Raidre mentiohe arrogant weasel. If she has skills like that, she ’t be simple…

  “I see. And what do you want from us for this boon? These old bones do creak and ache when we wake up in the m. Any relief from that would be wele.” She smiled shrewdly.

  “Firstly, as a sign of friendship. Japan has a lot to offer as an ally. I hope you’ll look kindly on the agreements over seeks. Sedly, and more importantly… I’m trying to win yranddaughter’s goodwill.”

  “I see.” She looked at Eleanor, who looked down, embarrassed. I have been causing trouble. Well, it’s not like Henry hasn’t had his fair share of diplomatic faux pas. Besides, I’m the you, I’m allowed to be childish. She k was an unworthy thought, and she let out a soft giggle, embarrassed.

  “Grandmother. If it is safe, I would love to see you healthy again.”

  “Nothing is a hundred pert safe, but with my skills I’d say you’d have to be incredibly unlucky for something to g.” Akio assured her.

  “I see. Well young man.” The Queens lips quirked into a smile. “This is the furthest anyone has goo impress my dear granddaughter. Perhaps you are taken with her beauty?”

  “She’s a pretty one for sure.” Akio said dryly as Eleanor blushed scarlet. “But my is are more pragmatic, I assure you. So, are we good to go?”

  “Very well. But first, we have a little request…”

  ********

  “You were not lying to this old woman, Shige. We found it rather agonising indeed.” The Queen decred. “And the itg is indeed damnably infernal. This goes in time, you say?” she asked Akio, who nodded.

  “Yeah, your Astral body will flush the debris and the itg will fade in a few days. So, any problems? I have to say, your heart wasn’t in a good state, some of those valves were paper-thin and it was beating irregurly. That was a heart attack waiting to happen.”

  “We know. We could feel it. It is ere worried for Eleanor. She does dote on me so. Well, we suppose we are the same way. So thank you. We watch over… no. I watch over my granddaughter a little lohanks to you, Akio.” She reached out a hand, aook it.

  “I’m happy to help, your Majesty. And your other request, I aodate it well enough.”

  “You are a young man who is eager to please. I suspect your fiancées like that about you.” She said, bantering, and Eleanor was stuck by how he had won her randmother was that unwell? She never said anything, But does this mean…?

  “I expect the Queen will live a number more years now.” Shige said, uandihoughts. “After all, Itsuki was in terrible shape, and after his healing he is the picture of health. And he has not even had Chirurgery.”

  “That’s a relief.” She sighed as the Queen and Akio bantered.

  “He is not the sdrel you think he is. He is a man with appetites and lusts like any other, but he has a good heart. My granddaughter adores him. Fortunately not in that way, or else I would be his grandfather-in-w as well.” He sighed, and Eleanor looked surprised.

  “Would you allow it?”

  “Politically, there is no gain in it, from the standpoint of the nobility. Akio is already tied to Fujiwara house, Takatsukasa house and Ichijou house. But… there is no safer pce to be in Japan than as ohin his arms. And they all chose it themselves. In fact, my granddaughter says there were only a small number he sought himself, the others pursued him, Motoko- and Natsumi- among them. So you do him a disservice.”

  “I see. Maybe I was too judgemental. But…”

  “I see you are a fairytale Princess indeed.” He ughed, with good humour. “Dreaming of a Prince all to yourself. Well, I suspect most women want the same. But others would rather share than miss out on their Prince, and who among us has the right to throw mud on their choices?”

  “I get it.” Eleanor puffed out her cheeks, feeling so terribly exhausted. “I’ve been unkind. I’ll apologise, like David did. Genuinely.”

  “That would be for the best, after all…” he smiled, as Akio was finishing up giving Mr Hunter his instrus.

  “When I’m gone, wake up Christina and give her the information. Make sure she uands that she shoulder the Boundary alohe first time, or she’ll die. The US has Chosen in project Star Mirror, I’m sure, so until she finds her bearings she has to enter with them.”

  “I uand. Titan must be gettiless, so we should hurry.” Mr Hunter agreed.

  “Well, if he barges in, I’ll just throw him out again.” Akio ughed, fident. “So, Princess, I’ll see you tomorrow then. I’ll put you through your paces, and we’ll prepare, just in case.”

  That attitude annoys me. They are all my friends, they won’t betray me. But… Sighing, Eleanor nodded. “I uand. Better safe than sorry. But I ’t see why you are waiting until tomorrow…”

  “Because Motoko, Natsumi and Hyath are all a bit upset after the day we’ve had. I want to spend the evening with them, have a nice meal, see some London sights, and after that…” his happy smirk annoyed her. “… well, did you see how stunning they all looked in those dresses? There’s no way I resist.”

  Eleanor snorted, a mixture of amusement, annoyand awe at his sheer nerve making her blush. “Fine, I get it. I lose. I was wrong. I admit it. There. Happy now? You’re still a pervert, but not… not in a way to be ned. I’ll still never like it though, I assure you! But I’ll not look down on your ways.”

  “Quite the desding apology.” Akio’s smirk broadened. “But I know genuine when I hear it, and I know the girls would rather have an apology filled with s that you mean, than a polite one just for form’s sake. So, until tomorrow. Prime Minister, Mr Hunter. I hope you get your MPs on board with our formal alliaime is tig. Your Majesty, Princess, it’s been fun. The selfie was great.”

  “Just get out!” Eleanor snapped, embarrassed. “And if that photograph makes the tabloids, I’ll curse you!”

  “hat’s just for my family.” He promised cheerfully, before looking at the sleeping Christina once more. “Well, the die is cast. We won’t lose much even if she doesn’t follow through, but be sure to tell her the lie that she needs yearly maintenance from me or else problems will crop up. Tell her that issue be removed though, if she shows willing.”

  “So ing. Lying to… no, I ’t say I’m sorry.” Eleanhed. “She’s a dangerous woman.”

  “Aren’t you as well?” he ughed as he left, esc Shige Fujiwara. And to that, Eleanor had nothing to say. Me, dangerous? pared to you… well, enough moping. Now my Sunday is filled, I just want to go home and rex…

  ShipTeaser