Harry Potter & the Shipgirls

[darthcourt10]

MagisterAurelius

Lonely Street 5

Dalton Longstreet had faced truly terrifying situations in his life. He had survived being attacked by a mountain lion at age twelve. The time he had to clean up one of his younger brother's more infamous escapades, when Flynn had been caught in flagrante delicto with the daughter of 'Fat' Tony Carpaccio the local mob boss. Any number of occasions on the Bering sea going out to rescue crab fishermen in distress. But today? It was just his luck, on a day he needed to make it absolutely clear he was apologizing, there was not a bunch of flowers or a florist to be found on base. And, if he didn't hurry his ass up, he would be late.

Off to the side he saw a small panoply of color, and he beheld a batch of wildflowers there. The colors all seemed to complement each other, so Dalt picked the bunch of them and made his way to the main gate to the base. And Kiho Mitsue, brownish-grey hair gathered loosely down her back, was indeed waiting for him on the other side of the gate. He approached her with flowers in hand. As he opened his mouth to begin his apology to her, she interrupted him with a raised finger.

"Dalt-san. Before you say anything. I appreciate the thought, but I am slightly allergic to at least three of the things in that bouquet."

Dalt winced. Another screw-up on his part. He deposited the bundle of weeds he had picked in a trash receptacle and turned back to Mitsue. "I'm so sorry I offended you yesterday Mitsue-san," as he took a breath to continue, she placed a finger on his lips to quell his voice.

"All is forgiven on two conditions: One, you are to use Kiho-san from now on. Two, get it through your head that I am attracted to you for who you are, and you will show me a good time tonight." As Dalt nodded his assent, she slipped her arm in his and squeezed his bicep with her other hand. "Good. So where are we having dinner?"

-0-0-

Kiho's POV

Inside the Italian cuisine restaurant La Serenissima

Kiho took another bite of her excellent chicken parmigiana. Someone last night after overhearing her phone call to Dalt, had suggested to him to take her to the best Italian restaurant in Yokosuka. She normally would have been ashamed of herself for her reaction last night. However the more she talked to the man, the more apparent what she did was almost the only way to get through to him.

Well, if absolutely necessary she could try one of the antics that the ship-girl Kongo tried with her admiral. Then again, that would require her to actually find that baby-doll negligee she had bought years ago, before her auror career was destroyed. I'm not wearing that for him just yet. A couple more nice dinners like this and we'll see. Her gaze fell on the hand Dalt was resting on the table. Two of his fingers had ugly dark bruises in between the knuckles as if they had been recently broken and reset. She instinctively reached out with her own hand and touched his.

"Dalt-san, what happened to your hand?"

She raised her eyes to his as he blinked in surprise. His face took on a rather sheepish, almost ashamed expression. In a low voice he explained, "Well, sometimes when the loneliness and the numbness gets really bad... sometimes I break my own fingers to see if I can still feel anything. I reset them myself, and they do heal fairly quickly on their own..." Kiho's breath caught in her chest. I can't even... what has happened to him to get him to this sort of state? She took a deep breath.

"Dalt-san? May I... I can try to heal your fingers. Just please do not overreact to what I am about to do. And I swear, I will find a way to lift whatever curse of ill fortune that has been laid on you." She took out her wand from the holster up her sleeve and began to wave it over Dalt's hand. She muttered the bruise healing charms' words. Frowning as it seemed to have no effect, she tried again. And a third time. Only to cease as Dalt's other hand held her wand hand.

"Kiho-san. Thank you for trying. Magic just doesn't seem to work on me. It's something my grandfather figured out after the mountain lion attacked me when I was twelve."

"What?!" Kiho could only stare at Dalt in shock. "How? I mean, are you immune or? A mountain lion when you were twelve?" Dalt actually chuckled, and then told Kiho a series of stories of his childhood and past. How his birth mother, while pregnant with Dalt, had practiced the dark magic equivalents of smoking, drinking alcohol and eating mercury tainted seafood while pregnant; merely because she was irritated at having become pregnant in the first place. His father's wife had resented Dalt as the product of her husband's infidelity, since Dalt's father was an incorrigible womanizer.

She watched his face fall when he spoke of the death of his grandparents. It's easy to see why, his grandparents seemed to be his only source of affection. Dalt touched on the issues behind his non-existent relationship with his younger brother. His brother certainly seems to emulated his father all too well. To have girls feign interest in him, only to try and get close to his brother, that must have galled Dalt terribly. It was only when he had finished reminiscing about a rescue in the Bering Sea and a collision with a loose crab pot, that Kiho realized she had been holding his hands in hers the entire time.

"Ah! Gomen Dalt-san. I've let the food get cold." Kiho blushed as she withdrew her hands and immediately felt regret that she had done so.

Dalt smiled at her, the light from the candles on the table sparking lights in his green eyes with white flecks in the iris. His eyes, they look like green marble. "Maybe we should order some dessert then? I hear the tiramisu is fantastic."

Kiho opened up to Dalt over the dessert. She told him of her goals and pride in her job as an auror, her pursuit of justice according to the law. Kiho went into her disgrace, the circumstances of her mother's death, and having to live hand to mouth as a private investigator. For the first time in a long time, she felt comfort in telling the tale, as Dalt had put his hand over her fingers with their purple polished fingernails and gently squeezed them in sympathy.

They finished dessert and continued talking, sharing the stories of their pasts and their dreams over the dessert wine. Dalt looked at his wine speculatively, "I've never really been much a wine drinker. Mead is more to my taste. Comes from my granddad I guess, he was a pretty good meadmaker back in the day. One of these days, I'm going to go back home to Idaho, sit on the front porch of his house on the lake in the early morning and watch the sunrise."

"That sounds like a very pretty scene to witness." Kiho smiled with a warm glow in her brown eyes.

Dalt paused and took a deep breath, seeming to Kiho that the tops of his ears might have turned red, as he spoke. "It is a beautiful thing to see. But after living in Japan for awhile now... I-I think I might have finally seen something more beautiful."

Kiho started as her breath caught. Did he just? He did! But there's no way he can mean that, can he? She raised an eyebrow, "Really, aren't you supposed to start the date with a line like that Dalt-san? I am far from being beautiful."

Dalt winced but then he met her gaze. "I haven't been on a date in years Kiho-san, I'm rusty. But if I say something like that? It's because I mean it." Keeping his eyes locked with hers, he took her hand in his and kissed her knuckles.

It wasn't the kissing of her knuckles. It wasn't even the words. It was the moment when he lowered her hand and he smiled at her, it was as if sparks glanced in his eyes, that Kiho knew that he had meant it, that he saw her and that she was beautiful to him.

"How old do you think I am Dalt-san?"

"Twenty eight maybe?"

"I'm thirty eight Dalt-san."

"And I'm thirty nine."

Her heart raced and she felt something tighten like it wanted to explode in her chest from the exhilaration. The tiny remnant of a young woman's dreams and desires squee'd in the back of Kiho's mind. Okay Kiho, time to shut up and just enjoy this!

-0-0-

Dalt's POV

As they left the restaurant and stepped out onto the sidewalk, Dalt felt Kiho put her hand into his. He turned to her and smiled. "Is there anything milady wishes?" He gestured grandly.

"Ah! Dalt-san, remember when I said I would give you my phone number? It's a landline, I do not own a cell phone..."

"Well then," Dalt looked around and smiled when he saw what he was searching for, "how about we take care of that issue right now? There's a store right there."

"Eh?"

A few minutes later Dalt and Kiho were in the shop comparing smart phones. When she had found one that she felt she could use easily, Dalt purchased it for her. After that, it was a simple matter to punch in each other's numbers into their phones. Then they continued walking together along the city streets, window shopping and just enjoying the evening. Finally, they stopped just outside of Kiho's apartment complex.

"Thank you for the wonderful evening Dalt-san." Kiho reached up and touched his cheek with her hand. "But you didn't have to buy the cell phone for me. I could have paid for it."

Dalt blushed at her touch at first, but then he smiled brightly at her for the second time. "Think of it as my gift to apologize for last night and for the crappy excuse of flowers today."

Kiho laughed softly into her hand, and smiled at Dalt. "You are forgiven, Dalt-san."

They stood there hesitantly, until Dalt shuffled his feet and attempted to ask, "Umm.. Kiho-san, may I..."

Kiho answered him by putting both hands on his cheeks and pulled him into a kiss.

-0-0-

Dalt had made his way back onto the base after seeing Kiho walk through the door of her complex. He hadn't felt this light in years. He felt giddy. For the first time since he was a child, Dalton Longstreet felt truly happy.

 

[darthcourt10]

Fallenworldful

Lol what is a regular update schedule even. Sorry bout the delay everyone, but Rochester's saga continues again at long last.

-------

Caroline studied her high ponytail in the mirror and judged it slightly wanting. A few deft flicks of her comb made it suitably fluffy, and she tucked a small bundle of fake lilacs around the hair tie to complete the look.

"What do you think?" She called.

Jamaica gestured for her to turn, and she spun her chair around to let her friend see. Caroline stopped in front of the computer screen again, and her friend raised an eyebrow. "I think I understand why people couldn't recognize Clark Kent now. That is uncanny."

She giggled. "Yeah, no one's recognized me like this yet." Caroline had changed out her wire-rim glasses, hat, and low pigtails for contacts, a headband, and a high ponytail as she had several times before. Normally, wandering outside in her home city attracted far too much attention for her liking—getting mobbed by a crowd while taking a walk lost its appeal after the first five times—but "disguised" as she was Caroline was left alone.

"I'm glad it works that well. Honestly, if I didn't know it was you, I might've had to resort to checking your hull."

"Heh, if it didn't, I'd have to ask for my money back. Abraham gave me a few pointers." She rolled her eyes. "Just wish she didn't like hiding so much."

Jamaica smirked. "I can imagine. Hey, you should—" Something buzzed from her end of the video call. "Hang on, I'm getting a communication from the coast guard."

Caroline waited while her friend answered with her onboard equipment. Jamaica's expression quickly morphed into a frown, and she started tapping her desk and muttering under her breath. A few seconds passed before she slumped face down onto her desk with a thump. A muffled "shit" drifted up past her dreadlocks.

The unusual curse drew a blink. "What's wrong?"

Her friend sighed and tilted her head up enough so Caroline could see her eyes again. "I told you about that smuggler I caught a week or so ago, right?"

She nodded. "He was hauling controlled goods across the Gulf in exchange for extra fuel and ration tickets, and had the bad luck to run into you on patrol."

"Turns out he was being pressured into it by a local gang. They kidnapped his family as leverage and he thinks they're in serious danger now." Jamaica hid her eyes again.

"Oh."

"Yep."

They lapsed into silence for a few seconds. Caroline tried to think of something to say, but came up blank. Why did people have to act this way? There were enough problems to deal with with the whole war for survival going on.

She started when her friend spoke again. "I shouldn't have dumped this on you."

"We're friends. After everything we've been through together, I'd be a terrible friend if I didn't listen." The line came out automatically, and Caroline could almost feel Jamaica choking on the cheesiness. "Sorry."

She waved her off with "It's fine." Another awkward pause spread through their conversation, but before it could grow too long Jamaica pushed herself back up. "Just don't say that ever again," she joked.

Caroline reared back in fake offense. "Hmph, well excuuuse me for being nice."

They held their poses until they couldn't hold back the snickers. That at least brought back a small smile. "Excused."

A clock chimed behind her.

"Ah, you still have that meeting at the Lilac Festival with Sable and, uh, Wolverine, don't you?"

Caroline had promised to meet the two training carriers today at the Lilac Festival to welcome them to Rochester. They had been testing experimental equipment in the Great Lakes for a few months and were spending the next week on leave, barring any sudden breakthroughs.

"Mmhm." Caroline didn't want to leave her stewing over this, as memories of her own awful time late last year flashed through her mind. Jamaica's friendship was about the only thing she could cling onto then, with both her mother and brother on deployment and her father busy dealing with the aftermath of an Abyssal raid.

"Oi, you're not going to leave them hanging for me, are you? I can reassure you that I'll keep filling your ears when you get back."

"You sure you aren't a mind reader, Jamaica?" She asked, and her friend laughed.

"Come on, scram, you're going to be late," and shooed her away.

"All right, all right, I'll call again tonight, then."

"I'll hold you to that. Enjoy!" Jamaica ended the call.

--------------------

The smell of lilacs drifted through the air. Thousands of the purple flowers were blooming across Highland Park, just in time for the yearly festival in their name. Not much had changed from before, if Caroline's faint memories of more peaceful times were accurate. The same crowds milled about under the bright spring sun enjoying life and what it brought. Food stands served up festival classics to anyone willing to stomach a thousand plus calories of grease and sugar while carnival games scammed kids of their parents' money. Bands played in a large natural amphitheater, their music faintly audible over the throng. Here, over two hundred miles inland and well insulated from Abyssal attack, people could cut loose and pretend the war didn't exist for a few hours a day.

She arrived a little early; her family's home was a quick walk away, and she walked fast. Her stomach rumbled a bit. Caroline checked her watch and decided there was enough time for a bite to eat. She joined the line to a food stand and nabbed two pieces of fried dough and a funnel cake. She surreptitiously poured a generous helping of powdered sugar on top before creeping away, hoping no one noticed the unusual portion size.

Her path ended at a secluded magnolia tree many children had climbed over the decades it had been there, the bark worn smooth by hundreds of hands. The trunk split close to the ground, forming a little seat of a sorts that she claimed. Just as she made herself comfortable, the wind promptly gusted, sending the sugar everywhere. Her fairies laughed at her plight as she tried to beat it out of her jeans and t-shirt, but pulled out dusters and got to work anyway.

"Hey, Rochester, this is Wolverine! Sable and I just reached the park entrance; where do you want to meet?" Wolverine's voice crackled onto her radio.

"Hello! Welcome to Highland Park, guys!" She cast about for a place far enough she would have time to clean up a little. "Do you see the conservatory?"

"The white greenhouse?"

"That's the one! I'll be right there, just give me a moment." Caroline glanced about for any observers, and stashed the funnel cake and fried dough away in her holds as she cleared away the last bit of sugar. Treat stored, Caroline set off at a brisk walk to the conservatory. Not many people were on the back trails with all the action on the main paths, but she passed a few people on the way there. Something tickled at the back of her mind, someone watching her, but a quick glance showed nothing out of the ordinary and her fairies hadn't spotted anything either.

The Lamberton Conservatory was the centerpiece of the park, a greenhouse conservatory with numerous exotic flora. She found Wolverine and Sable standing before the Spanish-American War memorial, an old cannon salvaged from a Spanish fort. Their rigging was quite distinctive, with their paddlewheel heel shoes and elegant layered dresses, a legacy of their cruising days. A small group was standing nearby, taking pictures of them.

"Hello Wolverine, Sable! Long time no see!"

They turned together and waved. "Same to you, Ro-Caroline!" Sable responded.

"You have to visit us more often, it gets lonely only working with steel-hulls," Wolverine added.

She breathed a sigh of relief as they remembered her request. "I'll certainly try, but you know how things are. Now, is there anything you want to do first?"

"Well, we certainly have to see the lilacs…"

And so the day went. Sable and Wolverine signed a few autographs as they meandered through the lilacs, sampled a garbage plate at a food stand, and scared the daylights out of a few shady carnival game operators. It was fun watching the two of them uneasily poke at the messy pile of protein and starch that Rochester called its local cuisine. However, the lingering feeling continued through the day, waxing and waning at random. She tried to force the unease out of mind,

The three of them entered the conservatory late, a few minutes before closing. She mouthed an apology to the man behind the service desk, but he ushered them in with a smile regardless. While the two training carriers proceeded on their own, Caroline lingered back. The pressure from before had returned, and as she crossed into the tropical room it intensified. Wolverine disappeared around the corner, leaving her alone in the room. A tiny pop disrupted the still, humid air.

Caroline turned her head, slow and cautious. Crew rushed to battle stations, manning her guns for the first time in weeks. Her rigging stayed stowed, but in an instant would be by her side.

A woman dressed in an ornate hanfu stood behind her. A jade bracelet carved to resemble a snake poked out from beneath her left sleeve, while she held a short length of wood in her right hand. Caroline locked eyes with the stranger. A familiar face she had seen just once before, but would remain in her memory forever.

Rochester lay in a pile of rubble, gasping for breath. The teeth had pierced her vitals through, tearing apart structural beams, armor, and machinery with contemptuous ease. Half of her boilers were gone outright, and the remaining ones were failing one by one. Her damage control teams shored what they could. It was a losing battle in the face of such devastating battle damage.

The sharp pop-pop-pop of the strange weapons the magicals had brought continued, interspersed with the much louder roars of the giant Abyssal, but they grew less and less frequent as the Abyssal picked them off one by one. She had failed, failed the city, failed the soldiers counting on her, failed her family. I'm sorry, she tried to broadcast, but even that took more energy than she could muster.

Someone staggered into the puddle of water, blood, and oil growing around her.

She tried to focus on the shape, a last defiance against the encroaching darkness. Whoever it was started speaking. The clipped Mandarin vanished into the haze of pain that was consuming her, and her eyes started to slide closed.

The last words, though, came through clearly. "Please, save them."

A blazing light cut through the fog. A young woman was kneeling next to her, a jade band with a brilliant pearl in her hands. She locked eyes with Rochester, and slipped the bracelet onto her left wrist. A wave of energy pulsed through her, and the wounds began to heal as the pearl shined brighter and brighter until it became blinding.

Rochester heard a quiet pop. By the time the light cleared, the woman was gone.

She raced towards the battle on new engines, hoping she wasn't too late.

Older features, yes, but similar all the same.

"Hello, Rochester." Her voice was warm, but not a trace of it carried over to her expression. "I am Ping Zhonghua."

------|\/|-------
Dun dun DUUUUUUN! cliffhanger! I've stripped the dates from these to make them less likely to get outrun by everyone else's writing, but I'm not sure how much that'll help haha.

Not particularly happy with it, but when is anyone happy with writing. Carp Diamonds and all that.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Butterknife Mountie Meets The In-Laws (Unknowingly) IV

Azabu Tansumachi Tenryoan, Roppongi Grand Plaza Second Floor, Tokyo
Spoiler: Ying meets Fudo

Wei Ying's eyes widened in shock as she mentally replayed the drunken mutter from behind her.

"...that damn gaijin rapier kidnapped Toku-chan, probably doing unspeakable things to her along with the jorogumo..."

Her father Colombe du Chasteler was the blond haired and blue eyed spirit of a rapier. Amah had been adamant on that point. Colombe du Chasteler had last been seen "kidnapping" some jorogumo from a Reserve in Japan. Although Ying had more than a few suspicions that Colombe had good reasons to do so.

As her chair crashed to the ground behind her and she turned to the young woman who had been drinking her sorrows away, a proverb that Amah had taught her as a young kit at her mother's knee came to her mind.

Four things come not back: the spoken word, the spent arrow, the past life, and the neglected opportunity.

With that her eyes sought the woman that she was approaching. No matter the risk to herself, she had to follow this lead up. She knew, just knew, that it was important. As much as her instincts as a policeman had been screaming 'danger', so too now they were screaming 'break in the case'.

The woman had set her suit aside, revealing a magnificent full-back tattoo of Búdòng Míngwáng in full divine splendor through her white shirt. His blue-skinned face was twisted in divine fury and wrath toward impurity with his teeth gritted in a scowl, showing two fangs. One hand clenched a short Japanese sword to cut through the illusions of existence and achieve enlightenment and the other a noose to bring sinners before him for punishment. Flames almost seemed to writhe around him from where he sat on a great stone representing the weight of suffering in Buddhist cosmology.

Over the shirt, she wore a tooled silk shoulder harness holding a matching shortsword to the one in the tattoo with bright crimson and orange silk wrapping the hilt and a gold guard.

Ying coughed politely as she bowed and spoke in near accentless Japanese, projecting a calming and trusting aura as best she could. "Excuse me, I could not help but overhear your speech and I believe that we are seeking the same miscreant. Perhaps I can be of some aid?"

On the other side of the bar, the cook serving the yakuza stepped back involuntarily with a look at Ying that was normally given to someone witnessing an attempt to juggle live grenades with the pins pulled.

Red-rimmed gold eyes filled with a furious, seething, molten wrath locked on Ying's own dark gray as the dao spirit born of a Muramasa rapier and a huli jing fox spirit's affection a century and a half ago spoke. "I am Chief Superintendent Wei Ying of the Royal Canadian Magical Mounted Police at your service. Any information you can tell me about this 'gaijin rapier' would be helpful so that I can see that justice is done to her."

Lips curled in a drunken sneer as the other sword spirit spoke with considerable venom and pain held by a fraying cord. "Masamune-no-Fudo of the Owari Tokugawa family. That damn rapier kidnapped my sister Tokunotakai and is tormenting her again!" One battered and bruised hand with recently reset broken fingers grabbed Ying's dress at the chest and yanked her down close enough so that their noses touched. "We have to save Toku-chan before it is too late!"

Ying's eyes widened and she spoke. "Again? Please, tell me everything you know about these attacks on Tokunotakai so I can track Colombe down. After all, while we in the RCMMP always get our person, in a kidnapping time is of the essence.

"Exactly! It started in 1864 when this Colombe showed up out of nowhere at Toku-chan's shrine in Kamakura and attacked her unprovoked..." The dam broke and Fudo began to speak in a rambling drunken monologue in a rush of words. Ying nodded and made encouraging noises as the confession gained steam.

---------------------------

"...So to recap, Colombe attacked your sister at her shrine in 1864 and humiliated her and caused visible damage, and you think that was responsible for her change in attitude toward you although Kyoshu may have done it or assisted Colombe. Then last October, Colombe returned and beat her up again and Tokunotakai was extremely evasive when questioned while showing visible injuries, which have been seen again periodically. Now Tokunotakai has vanished and Colombe was seen with her shortly before the disappearance. The two claimed to be heading to Mount Fuji near where the Reserve was attacked by Colombe." Ying spoke slowly. "It all does hang together with the other evidence that I have collected."

"You believe me! You actually believe me!!" Fudo exclaimed drunkenly, tears streaming down her cheeks. "None of my sisters believe me!"

Fudo yanked Ying into an embrace, and the dao began to pray to the Celestial Bureaucracy for salvation. Delilah would be out of the bathroom soon. One glimpse of the compromising position that she was in and she would hear about this for the next century and a half. Plus her ribs were starting to bend.

Fortunately, salvation was at hand as her prayers were answered.

The charcoal fireplace across the bar where food was cooked suddenly flamed green. As Ying and Fudo looked over to see who was Flooing in, their jaws dropped.

A dripping wet and soapy kitsune dressed in a bloodstained Pikachu bath towel, a swordbelt, and cheap plastic sandals with a naked Inugami girl slung over her shoulders sprinted out of the flames. Panicked honey-brown eyes locked on Ying and the mystery woman babbled in English at the frozen sword spirits embracing.

"WHERESDELQUICKYOUHAVETOHELPME!!!"

On the other side of the room, the door to the ladies' room opened and Delilah stepped out and stopped dead at the sight. Her jaw dropped in shock at the new arrival. Even for her sister, this was quite a masterpiece of chaos.

"DAMMIT JACKIE!!"
Spoiler: Three, Two, One...

Unattended, Delilah's cell phone began to ring on the table next to Ying's dessert plate

 

[darthcourt10]

NotHimAgain

We interrupt this program to bring you a thingy!
-----

Everything was light, and confusion, and terrifying.

"Dana," the big one, the one holding her as more and more showed up and were loud and cooing and excited and she curled up, scrunched her eyes closed, trying to make herself as small and unnoticeable as possible, said, "Dana, it's alright. You're okay here."

What was going on? Who was Dana? Where was she?

"Alright, alright, everyone back up a little," a new voice came through, lowering a hush over the crowd as it did, "she's scared and disoriented, and you're not helping the problem… Yes, you too Nemo, unless—Ku-tan, was she already here? She was? Okay, fine then. You were one of the first Abyssals she saw, she'll probably respond better to you."

The voices were quieter and moved away. So it was safe now? No one was going to bully her?

Slowly, hesitantly, she opened her eyes and looked right up into the face of another big one, except this one was white where the other one was black. She squeaked and flailed, hitting something soft—

"Ow! Geez!"

--and clinging to the first big one. "Dana, don't worry," she was saying, "everything's—"

"Ku-tan," the second big one cut her off, "stop. Take a deep breath. You're panicking a little yourself. Take a moment."

The first big one was quiet.

Relative quiet. A moment for her to think.

She looked back up at the first big one. She was looking down at her, and was so upset that she could feel her shaking. It made her feel upset herself somehow.

"Dana?" she asked.

The big one's grip on her slackened, and tears began to form in her eyes. Why was she crying?

"Yes," she said, voice trembling as well. "Dana. That's you. You're Dana."

She was Dana? So the big one had been talking to her the whole time? But why was she upset that she was talking back now? And who was she?

Dana pointed up at her.

"Uh… me?" the big one stammered. "I'm—"

"Isn't it obvious?" the second big one asked cheerfully. "She's your mama."

Mama?

That was an important word, right? Dana wasn't sure, but she felt like it meant protection and gentleness and love. "Mama?" she repeated.

The first big one—Mama—hugged her and started to cry.
-----

Well what do you think, sirs?

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

Courtship Display V

Ono Shrine, Yokosuka Naval Base
Spoiler: Kiho and Dalt

Kiho hummed happily as she stepped under the torii gate. She was still on Cloud Nine from her date with Dalt-kun three days ago.

Others might see him as too western, too scarred, too hurting, too rough.

She did not.

After all, beauty faded, but character endured. Character was what you showed in the dark, what was shown and honed when the world battered you to your knees. When you had to dig deep and hard to the core of yourself to make a choice that defined you.

When an ex-Auror had to make a choice between financial security in exchange for a 'simple job' for the local criminal syndicate that would have indebted her in their dealings or selling her family home to pay for her mother's funeral.

When a Coast Guard sailor had to choose between shouldering all the pain and self-hatred and anguish that came with finding that his brother had betrayed him again to do his duty or electing to not listen when the call came over the radio he was monitoring that a ship was in trouble on the hungry seas where angels would fear to go out in that storm lashed night.

Character was digging deep to get through today somehow just to get to tomorrow. Character was not giving up on your dreams of something better than what you had no matter how dark the road ahead got.

Character was what she saw in him and he saw in her. And that character and understanding that while life was not perfect, that life was painful, was what attracted her to him.

She laughed and resolved to purchase a good luck talisman for him after she finished her business here. But as much as she wished otherwise, she was here on business of the professional sort.

With that, she looked around. Her eyes narrowed at the young-seeming miko in training sweeping leaves away next to a fox statue honoring Inari. She had seen that girl at Hanami, enjoying the blossoms of hanami next to Harry Potter.

With that she walked over and bowed in introduction. "Excuse me, Miko-san, but your Aunt suggested for me to visit the shrine for answers. If you could perhaps direct me to them?"

The young two-tail kitsune bowed in return. "Ahh, if you wait there, I will get my aunt."

Kiho nodded and after a few minutes, the young kitsune returned and gestured. "Thank you very much, Miko-san."

The youngster gave her a toothy smile. "Ono Natsumi."

Kiho blinked, "Ah, a pleasure then Ono-san, I am Mitsue Kiho, a registered Private Investigator." She laughed slightly. "I fear that you will not need my services to do a background check on Potter Harry, since he is an upstanding young man."

Natsumi flushed scarlet as she slid the screen open to her aunt's study.

Kiho stepped inside and bowed to the five tail kitsune in priestess robes waiting for her. The Kitsune matron gestured with one hand. "Thank you Natsumi-san, that is all."

Kiho took the offered seat and bowed her head as Natsumi closed the screen behind her. "Thank you for this invitation Priestess-san."

"Ono Haru, Mitsue-san." Haru's voice was quite calm as her five tails waved slightly.

"Ono-san then." Kiho paused and pulled out a Self Scribing Quill and a pad of paper. "May I?"

Haru nodded, and Kiho activated the tool of her trade. "Thank you Ono-san. I was hired by the Miyata family to look into Ibuki Moriko-san as a potential wife to their grandchild Miyata Hachiko-san. They had some concerns about rumors that the young lady mentioned to Miyata-san that she is a Natural Born shipgirl. Also there was some to date unfounded concern that the match might have been the work of a trickster spirit. Plus the normal background check about her character, relations, and so on of course."

Haru barked a laugh. "I can allay at least one point. Neither I nor any kitsune that I am aware of, and I am aware of much that goes on around the base, has anything in the least to do with Miyata-san and Ibuki-san's relationship. While we enjoy a good prank as you know, none in my family's social circle would tolerate something so crass as false love. And even if any of us were, neither of the children have had more dealings with us than the normal comments about how cute the couple is."

Kiho nodded, "Thank you, that is a relief. My client was somewhat concerned because Ibuki-san is not a conventional beauty and Miyata-san is not the most robust man. So the picture is one that makes for an amusing image on first impression, no?"

Haru laughed again, "Indeed it is, but I fear if any one is responsible for that jest, it is no kitsune. If anything, considering their clear devotion to each other, I suspect the Kami of Matchmaking."

Kiho nodded. "What can you tell me about Ibuki-san then that I can relay to Miyata-san's family?"

Haru began to fix tea for them. "First, the rumor that Ibuki Moriko is a Natural Born is not unfounded, although she is not Awakened yet. As for the young lady she has fine character. She is frugal and devoted to her family, especially her youngest sister. Alas, her upbringing inhibited her skills in the feminine arts."

Kiho sipped her tea. "Thank you. Speaking of the youngest Ibuki, my client has asked if you know anything about her medical condition. Purely to allay any concerns about their son having children who have ill-health like the poor young lady suffers from."

Haru frowned. "Little that I may reveal. She is a Natural-Born too, but of a ship that was scrapped soon after the building process began. That had a negative impact upon her health since her spiritual body was incomplete and out of balance. Although a treatment regimen has been devised for her and her spirit is strengthening daily. When I first met her, she was unable to rise from her wheelchair. Now, thanks to her sister's care, she can walk for short distances with a walker."

Kiho smiled. "That is a relief for me and my client. I shall pray for Ibuki-san's continual improvement. Will the middle sister Ibuki Suzume create any problems with any potential marriage between the Miyata and Ibuki families...?"

-------------------------------

An hour later Kiho left the shrine with a spring in her step. From her observation of the couple, she had decided that she wanted this pair of lovebirds to flourish.

Now while she would need to run down some loose ends and recheck her analysis to make sure that it was complete the end of her assignment was in sight.

Reading between the lines of her last meeting with Miyata Naomi-san, she suspected that a hefty bonus for a job well done was in order for her. She hummed as she cast a security spell on her notebook with the notes of her conversation with Ono Haru. She was not blind to the implications of a Yokai shipgirl such as Ibuki Moriko, so wished that information to remain confidential until she could hand it to her client personally.

As much as she despised Miyata Shigeru, she could not accuse that the old spider of being foolish with information of such importance. While she had no illusions that he would not profit from it somehow, he would also use it to improve the condition of Yokai rights, especially since his grandchildren were Hanyo.

With that done, she pulled out her new cell phone - a wonderful device! - and dialed Dalt-san's number.

"Oh, will you be out of the gym and presentable in a half hour? I got done early, so if you want to go out, I will be waiting for you at the main gate then in the usual place. Until then!"

She hung up and slipped the phone in a pocket of her suit, before pulling out her notebook again. As she waited across the street from the main gate on her 'normal bench' to meet Dalt, she flipped to a fresh page and began to write.

"Research uncompleted ships of WWII to determine which class the Ibukis are. Library? Perha---"

The notebook slipped from her slack hands as a paralysis ofuda was applied to her and a pair of burly men dragged her limp body into their van.

A Piece of Heaven Karaoke Club

Moriko Ibuki gave Hachiko Miyata a hungry look. Since their first date, they had made a point of visiting the karaoke club where they had first gone out regularly.

And tonight was Duet Night.

The couple nodded as one and stood up from the table when their number was called.

Walking in front of the crowd of shipgirls and couples, they took their places on the stage. and the sunnily smiling manager handed them cordless microphones.

Suzume and Sachiko both began to film their big sister as the lights dimmed and a spotlight shone on Hachiko.
Spoiler: A Puppy Duet

He looked across the stage to her and extended his hand as the music started and he sang in his soft tenor.

"I can show you the world
Shining, shimmering, splendid
Tell me, princess
Now when did you last let your heart decide?
I can open your eyes
Take you wonder by wonder
Over, sideways and under
On a magic carpet ride"

His eyes sparkled behind his glasses as his voice soared in the refrain.

"A whole new world
A new fantastic point of view
No one to tell us, "No"
Or where to go
Or say we're only dreaming"

She then sang as a spotlight illuminated her. Her gray eyes sparkled with care for him, and her husky rough contralto voice growled out her feelings for him.

"A whole new world
A dazzling place I never knew
But when I'm way up here
It's crystal clear
That now I'm in a whole new world with you"

His voice joined her on the final line of the refrain in a harmonious duet.

"Now I'm in a whole new world with you"

She picked up the next verse of the song as she wagged her invisible tail and her voice soared with the memories of their first kiss under the cherry blossoms of hanami.

"Unbelievable sights
Indescribable feeling
Soaring, tumbling, freewheeling
Through an endless diamond sky"

As the song drew to its climax, the two began to walk toward each other in perfect unison, singing back and forth in harmony.

"A whole new world
A whole new world
That's where we'll be
That's where we'll be
A thrilling chase
A wondrous place"

They reached each other as the two spotlights became one and sang the last verse in unison as she leaned forward and he stretched up to stare into her eyes, taking his glasses off as he did.

"For you and me"

Their lips met and they embraced under the spotlights as the crowd applauded. Sachiko wiped tears of joy from her eyes. Suzume wolf whistled and cheered. To the side, Ame-no-Uzume beamed happily at the destined couple that she was gently shepherding as the red thread linking them strengthened and brightened. Finally, in a corner, a disguised Naomi Miyata raised her glass of soda in a toast to her nephew with an ear to ear smile.

As the two kissed, Uzume's smile dimmed slightly as her phone vibrated with a warning for another couple who she was monitoring.

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

With his hands in his pockets as he looked towards Rose who was walking beside him, Harry smiled slightly, "Nervous, Rose?"

All the tsukumogami did though was shake her head with a soft smile of her own, "No, Master. In fact..." Pausing, her expression became thoughtful, "I am somewhat excited after all to meet others who are serving the family besides Sheff."

That made Tsukiakari's eyebrows raise and she looked over her shoulder, "You know Sheff-San, Rose-San? Really?"

Humming, Rose gave a nod, "I do, after all the three of us served Master's grandmother together, my last Mistress. Though... I was not quite fully formed yet enough consciously to hold a conversation with them, I do remember them softly whispering to me at times."

Lips quirked upwards, Harry chuckled, "Well, I'm sort of excited to meet them as well, Rose. Hopefully..."

For her part, the Kyu Gunto came to a stop and placed a hand on his shoulder. Tsukiakari then gave him an understanding smile, "Trust me, Master, they do care for you. And while you have not spoken to them, they do love you. Though some..." A giggle escaped her which got her an odd look, "Though they do get some getting used to, after all."

While he did not quite understand what he meant, Harry put that aside and nodded, "Thanks, Tsukiakari."

Quickly, said blade pulled him into a hug as she whispered to him, "You do not need to be sorry, Master. Never, because you are a wonderful person." Pulling back some, Tsukiakari gave a look to Juuchi, "Right, Senpai?"

Raising one eyebrow, Juuchi snorted, "As if such a thing really needs to be said. After all, it is rather self-evident." Smugly looking at him, she continued, "Hence, it should be self apparent."

The other two object spirits only sighed and shook their heads with slightly exasperated smiles. Harry meanwhile, gave her a slight grin, "Thanks, Juuchi." A smug look on her face, the Muramasa waved him off. Looking around though, Harry gave a small nod, "This is a rather nice place though."

Brightly smiling, Tsukiakari nodded, "It really is, Master. I managed to find it and the apartment is a good size for the cost. Also, it is not too far from the base either, so we only have a short distance to travel." Reaching the door, she pulled out a key, "You ready?" All Harry did was nod and she put in the key and turned it, unlocking the door, "Hello, everyone."

Various noises drifted out as the Kyu Gunto walked in, only for them to fade away as Harry did so as well, Regina at his back. Seeing the various sets of eyes on him, he gave an unsure smile and wave, "Um, hi?"

No one said anything before a boisterous laugh made them turn to Goldie, who sat in a recliner as if it was her throne. Grinning widely, she threw her arms wide, "HA! It seems that the sight of us and our magnificence has shocked Praetor into silence! Though, that is little wonder." Getting up, she walked over to him and nodded, "I am Crocea Mors, Praetor, and have been in the family for many years. It is my honour to once more be able to serve one of the Household."

Holding out his hand, Harry had a slight smile on his face as the Roman blade clasped his arm in her hand, "It is good to meet you, Crocea-"

From behind him, Juuchi called out, "Just call her Goldie, everyone does."

Eyebrow raised, the Roman sword shrugged, "I do not mind very much, Praetor. It is but a nickname, Umu."

There was a slight of twinkle of amusement in her eyes as Juuchi twitched a bit.

Meanwhile, Dracul leapt up onto the couch and twirled her true self around before holding it behind her with one hand. Placing one hand with her fingers touching her chest, she grinned while closing her eyes, "And I am the greatest spear bard of them all, Dracul~ And I am no fool~" Opening one eye, she smirked, "So have no fear, for I am here."

Looking over her shoulder, Goldie raised one eyebrow, "When it comes to singing, you cannot match me." Just chuckling, she looked at the other sprit with one eye opened and her hands raised in a "What can you do pose" while smirking, "For I am greater for I am Roman."

Her eyebrow twitching, Dracul leaned forward, "Ha! You cannot match my heavenly voice~'

Now bringing her full attention to the other Potter weapon, Goldie hummed, "Perhaps we shall hold a contest, Umu! A singing contest!"

Almost as one, everyone but Harry, Regina, Rose, Goldie, and Dracul spoke as one, "Please don't."

Both arguing blades huffed a bit and looked away from each other. Confused, Harry scratched the back of his head, 'I wonder what that is all about...'

The spear then turned to Harry and smiled which showed her larger than normal canines before she hopped off the couch and stood before him. Placing one hand on her hip, which she thrust out, she chuckled, "Still, it is good to finally meet you in person, Master." Winking, Dracul wagged a finger at him, "And I know that we're going to get along just fine."

Simply nodding, Harry chuckled, "I hope so too, Dracul..."

One by one, each of the weapons introduced themselves to Harry with smiles and handshakes. When it came to Carnwennan, the Arthurian dagger gave Harry a small nod, "Do not worry about Mistress Natsumi. I'll do my very best to protect her for you."

Smiling slightly, something about that filled Harry with confidence that one could tell from his voice, "I know. And thank you."

All Carnwennan did was nod at that with an understanding smile upon his face.

Eventually, he came to Andraste who introduced herself with a small bow. As she straightened, Harry smiled back at her, "It is good to meet you, Andraste." Head tilted to the side, he nodded towards her, "Also, nice glasses."

Juuchi raised her eyebrows in question at that, "I have been wondering about that... why are you wearing glasses?"

The shield spirit blinked at that before bashfully smiling, "Sabah suggested it as a matter of fact. She said, um, it made me look cute...?"

When they turned to said sword, she opened one eye and nodded before leaning into a lightly blushing Andraste, "It does, my old friend. And I believe that the word that I used was 'Adorable', as a matter of fact. Especially when you get all embarrassed and flustered as you are right now."

In reply to that, Andraste blushed and looked away as she scratched one cheek. And, internally, Harry had to agree, she did look adorable with glasses on her face. Soon enough, they were all seated at the chairs and couches that were in the apartment. Part of Harry being amused as Sabah sat in Andraste's lap, much to the slight embarrassment of the shield. Taking a sip of her tea, Andraste hummed, "This is wonderful tea, Miss Rose."

Lightly blushing, Rose gave her a nod, "Thank you, Miss Andraste."

Bill, for his part, nodded as he sipped his tea before tipping his hat to the tea set, "Don't normally drink tea, mind you. But this is some mighty fine tea that you brewed up if I don't say myself."

For her part, Feng softly smiled alongside his sister, Xing, "Yes, this is wonderful tea, Lady Rose. Our compliments."

Simply nodding, the tea set smiled. Meanwhile, Harry was talking with Dracul with Regina listening in intently, "So... you did not like your original owner?"

Placing her mug down, the spear frowned, "I... would not say that I did not like him, as much as my feelings in regards to him are complicated. He forged me, created me, and used me for the first ten years of my life in a war that turned Central Europe into a charnel house." Looking at the window, Dracul frowned, "I looked up the war on the internet. According to them, more than eight million people died... and I can believe it. But while I am thankful for giving me an existence, what he did... well, outside the family they called him William the Bloody. In the family? They called him William the Devil, William the Stained, and many more. I am reasonably certain that they despised him..."

A frown on his face, Harry furrowed his eyebrows, "Was... was he really that bad?"

Dracul bit into a cookie and nodded, "Perhaps even worse. Last week, I came across one of those animes, Hellsing. That Catholic Priest? The ones who slaughtered people and such? He reminds me much of William... but restrained and a Catholic Priest. William took joy in killing Catholics, especially those of the German Branch of the Potters. And he died when one of them brought out Vala here." She nodded towards the shield and sword spirit, "He decided to fight an army of people lead by the wizard with her in his hands. It was... vicious, and brutal, especially when William discovered that all his allies had left." Leaning forward, she frowned, "I arrived back in English Potters properties when the war ended, because while I was a Potter weapon, they wanted nothing to do with me. Something that I cannot blame them for."

Lips turned downwards into a frown, Rose gave her a look, "And if you met him now?"

In response, the spear looked at her and smiled thinly, "I have learned much with the Potters, including how important family is. Thus, I would verbally rip him apart... and then stab him in the gut and put the rabid dog he is down."

That only got her nods as the conversations continued.
___________________________________________________________

Standing outside the Shrine, Harry looked somewhat sheepishly as he looked at an amused Haru, "Sorry about taking so long, Haru-San. But..."

Just chuckling, the five tailed Kitsune waved her off, "Do not worry about it too much, Harry-San. After all, you were meeting members of your family, or beings that you consider as much. So you taking some time is not a real issue." She smiled slightly, "I remember getting lost for hours in talking with Kogitsune-San. So it does not bother me if something similar happened to you."

All Harry did was nod and sigh in relief, "Thanks."

Once more, Haru chuckled before they came into view of the entrance to the Shrine, and one building set a short distance away, "And here we go."

Eyes widening slightly, the thirteen year old stared up at the building and turned to Haru, "The museum is in the form of a Machiya?"

Haru smiled and gave a slow nod, "It is, or at least appears to be. There are a few modifications to it for the items in question of course. Not all of them being visible mind you, and more than a few are more modern such as central heating and air conditioning hidden out of view to give it a more traditional feel. Among others, there are also some earthquake protections in the design. We have also added magical defenses, such as anti-fire charms used in the West. If the items were in danger of being destroyed, they would also be teleported to a safe place to wait for retrieval. An... interesting spell, I will admit."

Unable to help himself, Harry grinned, "Really interesting spell." Noticing something else about the building, his grin widened, "And I noticed that there is a third floor."

Placing her hands behind her back, Haru hummed, "Yes, there is. Somehow it was added to the plans and turned into a small apartment, though some usage of expansion charms has made it a bit bigger than normal." Twinkle in her eyes, she continued, "Originally, it was supposed to be where the conservation and such would be taking place, but it was decided to have that done in a small area on the first floor. Of course, this means that now there will be security on site twenty four seven. Hoshi-San seemed rather surprised when Natsumi-Chan showed it to her."

Both of them looked at each other with completely straight faces for a few moments until they cracked up and snickered. Shaking his head, Harry continued to snicker, "So there is a whole apartment up there?"

Flicking away a tear, Haru nodded, "Hai, with everything needed." She gave a small shrug, "Normally, we would have only gotten away with a two story building. But there has been some advances and magical spells that allow for a three floor wooden building to meet all code." Reaching the locked door, she unlocked it and opened it before moving inside and punching in a code to disarm an alarm system. With that done, she slid a second, metal gate back and into a hidden recess before nodding, "And there we go."

Upon entering, Harry noted that Haru had turned on the lights. But what caught his attention was one of the very first things and that was on the wall. Almost immediately at seeing the picture of himself smiling, and the plaque below it stating that the museum displayed the "Potter Collection", he blushed, "Um... did you really have to?"

Haru smirked a bit at that, "Hai, I did." She gestured around them, "After all, these do belong to you, Harry-San. Each and every one of them... and so I had little choice but to state who and where they came from."

That only got her a look from the thirteen year old, which only made her smirk more. Shaking his head, Harry glanced around and noticed a second plaque. This one talked about the history behind the collection and how it was gathered by Ian Potter. All done in a way that made sure that one did not think of magic, "Huh..."

Standing beside him, Haru gave a small nod, "We will, of course, expand the plaque when the Statute finally falls with the full story. But until then? I think that this will be fine." The Kitsune then gestured at an alcove, "Of course, here we have the museum shop."

As he entered it, Harry looked around in interest. Sure enough, there were prints from the woodcuts here and there. Head cocked to the side, he examined one, "Were these made from the original wood blocks?"

With a small nod, the Yokai nodded, "Hai, they were as a matter of fact. I got in touch with some old friends who had made ones themselves and could use them. From what I have been told, they should sell reasonably well." Moving to a display case, she tapped it, "And here, we have reproductions of the netsuke and okimono for sale as well. Like in the case of the woodprints, I have a few friends who were happy to make some. We'll also sell some replica inrō as well."

Looking over what was there, Harry noticed something hanging from a small stand on the cashier desk and chuckled as he gestured at it, "You made smaller netsuke replicas for phone charms?"

The Kitsune grinned, "Hai, we did. It was something that Natsumi-Chan suggested as she thought that a number of teens might want to buy them. Especially as some of them could be considered cute." With a motion of her hand to follow, she walked out into the museum proper. Along the walls were display cases with netsuke inside of them, with the displays sorted by what type of netsuke they were. There were also informative plaques stating not just what they were, but about the artist that made them and where they had come from as well as history. There was even a display under glass of a male mannequin wearing a Hakama while a female one wore an old fashioned Kimono, both of them with an inrō as well as netsuke to show how they were worn.

Besides the netsuke, there was also several different inrō, okimono, and other Japanese objects that Ian had bought during his time in Japan. Not to mention normal pictures that showed said objects being made, which the thirteen year old wizard knew would be replaced with wizarding ones once the SoS fell. While he knew that there was a lot in Ian's collection, Harry had not quite expected this much. It practically filled the first floor of the museum while leaving enough room for people to walk and move around, "I knew that he had a large collection, but..."

Also looking around, Haru gave a small nod, "Your great-grandfather really did collect a lot of items. Most of which were small and considered barely noteworthy at the time. But now... they can be used to give people in the here and now a glimpse at the life during the Edo and Meiji Eras." Hand resting on the display case which had the iron kitsune statute created by Yamada Sōbi that Ian had bought, Haru softly smiled, "To bring the past back to life." Patting his shoulder, she gave a nod towards the stairwell that went up to the second floor, a small elevator beside it for wheelchair access. Once they were upstairs, the Kitsune nodded, "And here are where the woodcut reproductions will be displayed, though over there..." She gestured to one end, "Is where various photographs will be displayed showing daily life as well as an group of interactive exhibits."

Intrigued, Harry looked at her, "Really?"

With a hum, Haru smiled, "Really. And it should be a real hit."

However, she did not lead him right over to the various woodcuts. Some of them showed ancient Japanese warriors fighting each other, Yokai, and like. Others showed romance between different figures and the like. There was even a few woodcuts from the Russo-Japanese War. Besides the woodcuts, there were also fans that were on display as well as wall hangings and even folding screens. All protected behind glass. Some woodblocks crafted to make woodcuts were also on display. Each display having a small bit of information talking about it. Harry was even informed that there was enough that they would switch some out for other objects in the collection to make sure that every bit would be seen.

Eventually, they made their way to the back where various photographs were of Edo and Meiji Era Japan. They practically covered the walls showing day to day life, various people, and the like. Beneath them were small plaques talking about the subjects and giving some information. Finally though, they reached the interactive exhibit which was a group of display screens. Which were themselves touch screens showing scanned pages from books. Choosing one, Harry began to scroll through it with wide eyes, "Wow..."

Lightly laughing, Haru nodded, "Yes, they did a very good job with this as a matter of fact. Ian-San had quite a few books dated to the time and the like, all preserved. Needless to say, I think some historians at Tokyo University and the like were very happy and are still poring over the non-magical tomes. This will let people read what their ancestors might have read and even wrote." Gesturing at another display, the Kitsune smiled, "That one has newspaper pages as a matter of fact."

Grinning, Harry gave her a laugh of his own, "Guess that it was a very good thing that Potters are packrats, huh?

Softly snorting, the Yokai grinned back, "Yes, an extremely good thing as a matter of fact." Picking one book, Haru began to read, "I remember reading this back when Tokyo was known as Edo. We will, of course, be offering scanned books online and there is a Yokai owned print shop that is extremely happy to have the contract to produce copies of the books for sale as well..." With a sigh, she shook her head, "I am very happy with all this, and I hope that you are as well, Harry-San."

Expression thoughtful, Harry gave a small bow, "Extremely happy." Looking around, he took a deep breath and released it, "And I think that my Great-grandfather would also be very happy and proud as well..."

To that, Haru simply nodded.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Butterknife Mountie Meets The In-Laws V

Kōsuiyama Soapland, Kuraba Street, Tokyo
Spoiler: Jackie's Night Out

Aomi Sato grimaced. The young Inugami woman hated her 'job'. For the hundredth time at least she cursed her decision to leave Onagawa to head to Tokyo to find her fortune.

Far better to have stayed home and tried to rebuild her family's fish processing plant after the Great Tōhoku Quake. But, no, she decided to move away from her tsunami-devastated hometown to become an idol in Tokyo. Just like her childhood dream had been. Stupid childhood dream.

Instead, the 'talent scout' that had approached her a year later after she buried her dead parents and sister and took the insurance money to forge a new life in the big city was less interested in a singer or dancer, and more in fresh meat for his masters in the Dojin-kai yakuza. Which is how she wound up here, as a virtual slave to the yakuza syndicate who owned her 'contract'.

With that, she plastered on a fake smile for the next 'customer' that she would 'fall in love with' while 'helping him bathe'.

Then her dark brown eyes opened wide in surprise as a female kitsune stepped through with a towel tied around her waist held in place by a honest-to-Amaterasu pirate swordbelt like you would see in the movies. As she moved on autopilot through the script that she had beaten into her, she wondered what that meant.

Hopefully she wouldn't be one of the more abusive ones....

As she finished the client's hair while she sat on the plastic stool next to the air mattress. and began to use her naked body to lather up her back to excite her, the pirate gently took her wrist. A soft whisper. "You don't like it here, do you?"

Aomi gave a hesitant nod and her ears perked up a little. This close she could smell the kitsune's scent which was...odd. Almost like steel rather than fox.

A soft chuckle. "Well have no fear. Fluffy Tail special or not, I'll get ye out of here or me name is not.." Aomi felt a long-absent emotion in her heart. Hope.

A bellow from the entrance as Daigekido, the oni bouncer who handled 'disciplining' the girls, appeared in the door stripped to the waist to show off his tattoos denoting status in the Dojin-kai along with a pendant. "Captain Fox!"

He swung his tetsubo mace at the kitsune's skull, who used the grip on her wrist to throw Aomi out of the path of the studded iron that would have pulped them both. As she sprawled on the air mattress, the Kitsune Captain Fox ducked out of the way of a second swing that shattered a hole in the tile wall of the 'bath chamber'.

"Oi now! Wait your turn boyo! I ordered a wench and not a buccaneer!" Fox glared at the Oni overtopping herself by a meter. "This ain't civilized!" She drew her sword and slashed at the Oni only to have the blade grabbed buy the Oni who ignored the blood dripping from his hand as Fox's eyes widened.

"Oyabun wants you dead! Reward me for your head!" A snarl and as the Oni forced Fox up against the back wall,

Aomi grabbed the first thing at hand, the bucket of soapy water. "Hey!" She was sick and tired of this shit.

Daigekido turned his head to face her, only to get a face full of soapy water in the eyes, followed by the thrown bucket.

Fox pulled her sword free from the distracted Oni and rolled between his legs, slashing up at his crotch as she did. A roar of rage and pain caused the room to shake as she sprang to her feet. "Time to..." Another figure appeared in the changing room hefting a rifle.

Fox's eyes found Aomi's and her lips moved. "Duck."

With that the Kitsune stabbed her sword at the wall behind Daigekido and yelled "CONFRINGO!" as she threw herself prone a half-second ahead of Aomi.

The wall exploded in a hail of tile, wood, PVC pipe, and plaster shrapnel, blowing Daigekido across the room and into the second kobun who entered with an AK-47. Aomi's ears were still ringing from the Blasting Curse when Fox threw her over her shoulders and leapt through the remains of the back wall.

"Furnace! Where is it!!" Fox yelled as they entered the back room to see a trio of Okami hefting swords and wands at the back door. A roar bellowed from the room where they had just vacated.

"Left door!" She screamed in return. Involuntarily her lips curled in a crazy smile.

Fox blew the indicated door open with a second blasting curse and sprinted into the utility room with its furnace for the hot water.

After a fast mumbled spell in English later and a gesture at the furnace, Fox jammed her cutlass back into the scabbard before pulling out a handful of Floo Powder from a pouch on her belt. She threw it in the furnace that they were running toward and yelled at the top of her lungs as the flames turned green and Aomi screamed.

"Azabu Tansumachi Tenryoan!"

Azabu Tansumachi Tenryoan, Roppongi Grand Plaza Second Floor, Tokyo
Spoiler: A Butterknife Family Reunion


Wei Ying stared at the all but naked kitsune with the very naked inugami girl slung over her shoulders as she untangled herself from Fudo's embrace. The kitsune leapt over the bar and ducked behind her, lowering the inugami girl to the floor.

"DAMMIT JACKIE!!" Came from behind her where Delilah had just gotten out of the bathroom and was sprinting to the table with her purse.

Involuntarily, Ying's normally calm and inscrutable face cracked and her lips twitched in a smirk. Her hand found the hilt of her dao and she slid into Si Li Bu stance.

The flames behind "Jackie" flared up again in a green fountain and a massive Yaojing with blue skin, tattoos, three horns, and a scowl bleeding from numerous cuts and bruises appeared and hefted a massive iron club.

Furious crimson eyes tracked from Delilah, to Jackie, to her... and then to Fudo who was standing and cracking her knuckles with a furious scowl on her face.

The Yaojing paled and yanked the pendant off his chest.

With a bang of displaced air two dozen more figures hefting unsheathed weapons appeared.

The serving staff and patrons began a general panicked exodus for the exits.

Delilah pulled a revolver from her purse.

Jacklyn drew her cutlass as Aomi crawled under the table where Delilah's cell phone was still ringing.

Fudo's scowl grew darker and uglier as mandalas began to cycle around her fists and she shifted into a shotokan karate stance.

Ying's dao cleared the sheath and her free hand pulled a handful of her hairs off her head.

CRACK

A .44 caliber bullet fired by Delilah ricocheted off the Oni's solid bone skull.

Jacklyn waved her cutlass as she stood over Aomi. "Away Boarders me hearties!" A shield spell sprang up to protect them.

Ying's illusion covering her hilt flickered out to show her brightly glowing Spirit Pearl as she breathed a silvery mist onto the loose hairs and flung them at the charging yakuza. They flickered and reformed into a half dozen duplicates of her as she leapt over the bar into the brawl with her Qi enhancing her speed, durability, and strength.

Fudo moved into action with a jumping crane kick that covered eight meters in the blink of an eye and sent a yakuza gunman flying past the furnace with half his ribcage caved in. As she landed, a knife edged hand strike shattered a katana-wielding Oni's forearm like glass and a roundhouse kick followup sent the Yokai's limp body flying across the room into the kitchen.

CRACK.

A second yakuza hefting a submachine gun spun and dropped from Delilah's bullet. "Cover me, Jackie!" The revolver snapped out as she began to pick off enemies.

CRACK.

"Aye Aye, Del!" The Cutlass grinned maniacally. Jackie rabbit punched a Yakuza trying to knife Delilah and then continued, "Aren't you going to pick up the phone and tell Colombe to join the fun?"

Delilah snarled at Jacklyn. "TELL COLOMBE THAT I'M BUSY HERE! SIS CAN WAIT UNTIL THIS IS OVER!"

Two sets of heads snapped around as they heard Delilah's angry snarl. "you...." Fudo hissed in rage and a flaming Shingon Buddhist mandala containing the Five Wisdom Kings of the Womb Realm erupted around her and cycled as Qi flooded and supercharged her. Everyone in the room stopped dead at the display of Divine Power emanating from the Masamune's avatar. Suddenly Fudo blurred at Delilah, leaving an afterimage behind her.
Spoiler: The Five Wisdom Kings

Ying watched with shocked awe as the Masamune stabbed out with one finger as her Qi flared almost too bright to see. She could barely see the Masamune's movements even fully Qi-boosted as her finger danced across Delilah who was moving in apparent slow motion. Mother, a Grandmaster of Mei Five Ancestors Style, would have been a deer before the tiger.

Zusanli point. Xuehai point. Zhongji point. Tianshu point. Xaiwan point. Quchi point. Qimen point. Tianfu point. Jiache point. Tiayang point. Renzhong point and Yintang points struck with thumb and ring finger simultaneously. Total blockage of all five Yin and five Yang meridians of the body.

Total paralysis.

Elegant, not a wasted motion as she effortlessly neutralized one of the strongest combatants that Ying knew.

Perfection incarnate.

Fudo glared at the paralyzed Delilah and whispered. "I'll deal with you and your 'sister' in a minute." She then gave an open-handed push to the chest of the Muramasa revolver.

Delilah shot across the room like a rocket, disintegrating the tables and chairs in her path. She impacted the wall and vanished in the sudden hole where the men's room was. Faintly there came the sound of shattered porcelain and gushing water as Fudo turned to the fifteen Yakuza still on their feet.

"Playtime's over." The Blade of Fudo My'oo drew herself. A flaming aura sprang from her as Masamune steel shone with its own inner light.

Ying felt a sudden wetness trickle down her legs as she lost control of her bladder.

 

[darthcourt10]

Savato93

Seven ships. Three late-model destroyers, two torpedo cruisers, one heavy cruiser, one Ta-class flagship.

…they had faced worse.

The ocean fog brought by the rising sun did well to mask them from sight, as they pondered their strategy.

The torpedo cruisers and destroyers would make closing in a dangerous proposition—they were confident in their maneuverability, but in the fleet's current formation they could cast a wall of torpedoes they would never be able to dodge. Hanging back and taking out the torpedo ships, on the other hand, would open them up to plunging fire from the Ta-class; getting close enough to ensure lethal hits on the smaller targets would put them square in the battleship's Goldilocks' zone.

One of them proposed a diversion, sending some planes out to get the fleet's attention as they approached from a different angle. It was a plausible tactic, but potentially costly as well—odds were good they would lose those planes, and with no carrier present in the fleet to salvage from, it would be some time before they could be replaced. As well, they would lose the element of surprise as the fleet shifted their formation and made it more difficult to catch two or more of them with one salvo.

Perhaps use the bombers to split their attention, another suggested. Come in fast and low, strike the torpedo cruisers with their less robust AA coverage, as they closed in and engaged the flagship head-on. The remaining destroyers would be too busy trying to shoot down the planes to launch torpedoes, giving them time to get close enough that their flagship would be caught in the line of fire as well.

A few seconds of deliberation, and then a consensus: they might lose the planes, but this gave them the best odds of eliminating the fleet with minimal risk of damage.

Of course, the heavy cruiser in the middle of the formation had the range to cover both the flagship and the torpedo squadron… but they knew just how to put it out of commission, and throw the whole fleet into disarray.

Deep in their souls, the drums of war began to beat.

…

In the distance, the Abyssals were unaware they were being observed; they were too busy salivating over the feast to come. For weeks they had waited, watching for the smallest gap in shipgirl patrols around these islands that they might be able to slip through. Now that they had their opening, it would be a simple matter to steal the humans' supplies right out from under them! Let those other fools throw themselves against a wall and die—they were going to get theirs the smart way, and get out with enough supplies to sustain themselves for weeks, months, even!

Making their way towards the nearest known supply depot, the fleet passed a small islet, shrouded in fog. They paid it no mind—it wasn't large enough to hold an outpost that may detect them, and they had to maintain maximum visibility.

So it was, that they didn't spot the lone, misshapen hull hiding in the mist.

"I can't wait to sink my teeth into some fresh meat after this…" the heavy cruiser, a Ri-class, said as she licked her lips.

"But we eat fresh meat every day." One of the destroyers pointed out.

"That bone-filled, jellified shit is NOT meat!" The Ri-class hissed. "I'm talking REAL meat—juicy, succulent beef, tender pork, fried chicken…"

The Flagship scoffed. "Please, that's basic shit. Once you've had a taste of human flesh, nothing else will have the same appeal anymore…"

There was a gagging, choking noise from the Ri-class.

"Oh, stop bitching! You don't know what you're booing until you've tried it yourself," the Ta-class growled, turning to roll her eyes at her subordinate…

But her eyes widened at the sight of the whale-bone harpoon that had impaled the heavy cruiser's throat.

The Ri-class reached for her neck with shaking hands, a look of utter shock on her face as she began to choke on her own blood, before finally collapsing to the water. Her hull was intact, but the injury was equivalent to her bridge being cut off from the rest of the ship—she was effectively mission-killed.

Instantly, the destroyers went into a panicked frenzy, spinning in circles pinging their sonars relentlessly. "What the fuck was that!? Where did it come from!?" One of the Chi-classes cried out in alarm.

"Spread out! Whoever did this, I WANT THEIR HEAD!!" The Ta-class howled.

One of the cruisers called out once more. "There! In the fog!"

The fleet turned back to the fog, to the islet they had dismissed out of hand. Now, a singular light cut through the fog like anchor knife through butter—getting closer, getting brighter. And with that light came a singular figure… an Abyssal hull, unlike any they had ever seen. At a glance, it had the hull of a Ta-class… but closer inspection revealed that it was all wrong. It looked like it had the superstructure of a Ru-class… and her aft end was completely flat, missing the third turret.

The destroyers and cruisers hesitantly backed away, frightened by the newcomer. The Ta-class, however, stepped forward. "Hey! What the fuck do you think you're doing out here? Identify yourself!"

The figure was silent, all but ignoring the flagship's command. Instead, the members of the fleet began to hear something: a low, droning buzz, underscored by a rhythmic drum beat, starting soft but steadily growing louder and louder. This noise wasn't coming from their radios, nor from the air itself… it almost seemed to be completely in their heads.
Spoiler: Marcher of the Deep

The light of the Ta-class's eyes flared, her annoyance growing. "What are you, brain dead?" She called out. "Is this some sort of challenge?"

The buzzing in their ears continued to get louder. Too late, they realized the buzzing was in fact real—two squadrons of bombers shot out of the fog, their propellers humming like a swarm of angry bees. Before the fleet could even think to take aim, they struck, peppering the Chi-classes' decks with their machine guns as they pulled up hard… moments before their torpedoes struck the cruisers square amidships, enveloping both of them in towers of water. In the space of a heartbeat, one of the pillars of water exploded—the explosion of the torpedoes touching off the unfortunate Abyssal's ammunition.

The destroyers and their flagship were stunned, watching as the smoke and mist cleared… and where the torpedo cruisers were standing just moments prior, the mangled remains of a lone cruiser began to slip beneath the waves, her sister all but vaporized.

The destroyers went into full panic mode, firing their guns and anti-air wildly into the air—well enough, as the bombers turned back and began to buzz their decks as well. The Ta-class twisted to face the disfigured hull, eyes blazing with rage. "So THAT'S how it is!? FINE! You're fucking DEAD, bitch!" She screamed, punctuating her declaration with her full armament.

The unknown Abyssal surged forward, dipping under the arc of the primary salvo with startling ease. By the time the Ta-class has fired her second salvo, the Abyssal was well within her effective firing range—and yet her foe continued to dodge the flagship's calculated shell groupings, exhibiting rudder-shifting speeds well beyond what a Ta-class should be capable of. At last, the unknown Abyssal powered her way out of the fog, revealing herself to the naked eye.

She was an abomination. Almost all of the Ta-class's original superstructure was gone, the tower of a Ru-class welded on top of what remained. One of her forward-facing twin turrets had also been replaced with a Ru-class's triple gun mount. And her aft end… was neither Ta nor Ru. It was a carrier's aft—her rear turret had been replaced with a partial flight deck, with a cruiser's catapult mechanisms jury-rigged to launch planes off the stern of the ship. It was likely that her engines, her screws, even her rudders were stolen from an armored carrier.

The Ta-class couldn't fire her main guns a third time before the abomination had closed to point-blank range. She was even more hideous up close; a chunk of her face and one arm being a different shade of grey from the rest of her body, a streak of black hair ruining her white mane, and the legs of a carrier Demon shoddily bolted onto her upper thighs.

This… this thing had no right to be sailing the seas—not as well as it was now. But her misshapen form radiated power unlike any the flagship had ever known.

The monster raised her arm, and there was a gleam of steel. The Ta-class barely managed to yank herself out of the way before a blade of Abyssal metal carved the air where she was just standing. Her mind racing, trying to find options, she lashed out with a foot, catching the monster in its flank and driving it several meters back. It barely even seemed winded, quickly charging her once more. She leveled her guns and fired at the bitch's center of mass; at this range, she figured, dodging would be all but impossible.

So she was at a complete loss for words when the monster simply vanished, and her rounds splashed uselessly into the water in front of her.

The Ta-class's roar of fury was stifled by the plume of water that erupted right in her face, the result of her shells detonating underwater. She staggered back, struggling to recover her vision—and just as her radar pinged a target behind her, she howled in pain as she felt the monster ram its blade into her back, carving through her armor effortlessly.

Blinded and hurting, she lashed out with an elbow behind her. Unfortunately her blow passed through empty air, and she felt the blade yanked free from her body as the monster retreated. She doubled over gasping, bringing a hand to her abdomen to try and stifle the blood flow; despite puncturing clear through her citadel, the stab had missed her vitals, by some miracle…

Or was it on purpose?

Slowly, the Ta-class turned around… and the abomination stood there facing her silently, its blade dripping with her blood. Was this… some sort of intimidation? Trying to scare her away?

The monster looked down to its feet, where the Ri-class still floated on the water, unconscious. Wearing what could only be called a bored expression on its face, it reversed the grip on its blade and brought it down in the heavy cruiser's chest, before pulling it out and watching her corpse slip under the waves.

The Ta-class felt her blood boiling. The nerve of this bitch!

She howled in rage, firing everything she had at the abomination. Once more, the Abyssal seemed to vanish into thin air—and too late, the Ta-class realized what lay beyond.

The destroyers never saw it coming, too focused on defending themselves from the bombers to notice the 16-inch shells, until they plowed into their paper-thin hulls and detonated, consuming them all in massive fireballs.

The Ta-class's heart plummeted. Just like that, her fleet was gone—she was all that remained. This wasn't supposed to happen… this was supposed to be just a supply depot raid, a heist. Why had this happened?

XXXXX

The Ta-class stood still on the water, a look of shock on her face. They stood behind the battleship, silently observing.

In all honesty, they had expected to only score some light damage on the destroyers by baiting the flagship's fire; to eliminate all three in one blow was a stroke of luck. They had lost four bombers keeping the destroyers occupied, however… it would likely be a long time before those were replaced.

At any rate, the flagship was the only one who remained. Dealing with her should be easy enough, now that her cover was gone.

They gunned their engines and charged the Ta-class, blade raised. The Ta-class twisted around, her face contorted in utter hate, but she wasn't quick enough—a spray of blood, and the battleship dropped into the water, her legs cleanly severed. The Ta-class sputtered and flailed weakly, turning herself face up, as they circled her. "F-fucking cunt…" she hissed. "What did we ever do to you…?"

They didn't feel the need to dignify the cannibal with an answer.

But as they raised their blade, prepared to end it, it struck them. A wave of emotion, raw and powerful… and at its heart, something impossible, that made them go deathly still. There was spark of recognition.

For a brief moment, the voices were unified in thought and action.

"...Mommy…?" The girl who used to be known as Tampa whispered.

In front of her, the mortally-wounded Ta-class saw the monstrosity pause; it was distracted. This was a chance—an opening, to pay this bitch back for taking everything from her.

She leveled every gun she could on the demon and fired one last salvo. This time, there was no dodging, no vanishing act—the cluster of shells impacted the beast square in the chest, enveloping her in a massive fireball.

The shock of her guns firing, and the proximity of the explosion, proved fatal for the Ta-class's compromised frame. She began to break up and sink of her own volition, deriving what little satisfaction she could from the fact she at least bloodied its nose.

The last thing she saw, before everything went black… was the Demon still standing there, defiant of the deep, bleeding wounds all over its torso.

…

They let out a guttural growl, clutching their bleeding chest. Their distraction had cost them; the Ta-class was able to make one last suicidal attack. They were likely going to be recovering from this for some time…

But that was secondary to the most important thought in their mind: somewhere, somehow, Mother was alive.

They had to tell their ohana.

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

Sitting on her porch and looking out into the yard of her family home, Akimi looked at the blossoming trees as the horizon slowly lightened. With a sigh, she closed her eyes and took a sip of tea before she opened them as she felt a presence beside her. A smile that did not quite meet her eyes met her as Miu looked down at her, "Good morning, Miu-Chan."

Just nodding, the crane Hanyou sat down beside her, "Good morning to you as well, Akimi-Chan." All her friend did though was nod back and make her a tea as well. Upon being handed the cup, she took a sip and sighed, "Good tea, as usual."

This time, there was a smile on Akimi's face, "Thank you."

Waving her off, Miu took another sip, "You don't need to thank me, after all it is always good." She then placed her cup to the side and gave her friend a worried look, "What are you doing up so early and..." Narrowing her eyes, Miu came to a realization, "How long have you been up for?"

In return, Akimi weakly chuckled as she rubbed her face, "Feels like most of the night. We've had a lot to think about after all."

Expression turning gentle and understanding, the crane Hanyou placed a hand on the other woman's shoulders, "Oh, Akimi-Chan."

Much to her surprise, Akimi gave her a soft smile back, "It's okay, Miu-Chan. I... came to a decision regarding it." Turning back to the trees, she gestured to them, "For most of the night I have been here, watching the stars and the trees. Attempting to divine something from them. And yet... nothing. But it came to me that it is really down to me, and me alone to make a decision."

Leaning forward, Miu frowned, "Because of your Ojii-San being the Captain of the ship that you're the shipgirl of."

Only shaking her head, the Kitsune Hanyou snorted some, "Not just that." Sighing, she continued, "There was also a worry in my heart. I have been looking up things regarding shipgirls. Did you know that some shipgirls actually change their appearance somewhat when awoken? Considering that most of the Yamatai's crew were Kitsune, what would that do to me. Does that mean that my appearance might take on some traits? Those shipgirls... like Ryuuhou, Taigai, Shigure, and Yuudachi, they have those odd hair flaps that almost look like ears. Will I have something like that?"

Head tilted to the side, Miu had a twinkle of amusement in her eyes, "Actually, I think that it would look pretty cute on you."

Chuckling, Akimi looked down at her tea, "I thought that you might say that." With a sip, she sighed, "But I suppose that my main worry was something else. Did you know that most of my Ojii-San's crew were Kitsune? Some called the Yamatai the 'Kitsune Battleship' due to how many Kitsune were crew. A large number of those had more than one tail as well and had fought alongside my Ojii-San for decades, some of them having fought against the Koreans hundreds of years ago. So most would likely have a few decades at least, and a number would have centuries over me. I suppose one of my worries was... how that might well affect me."

Now frowning herself, Miu had a thoughtful look on her face, "That... is a very good question, I suppose. How would our crews affect us? Would there be any bleedover?"

For several moments, the Onmyouji beside her did not say anything. But then, Akimi sighed, "That... is one of my fears, yes. And a worry that I have been keeping close and attempting to divine upon. All the signs point to, no, it would not affect me. Not really as even if I am not awakened, I am still the spirit of the ship, though in a body of flesh and blood. If they would have affected me, than they already have from the time that I was born in this current life."

Miu was silent herself for almost a minute, "You're going to go through with it, then?"

Slowly, Akimi nodded as she chewed her lip, "Hai, I am. If nothing else, I shall finally be able to get answers from my Ojii-San in regards to why he did what he did. To confirm, at the very least." Reaching into her clothes, she pulled out an envelope, "This is my letter to Junyou-Sama in regards to the offer. And... that I wish for it to be done as soon as possible." Laughs made her turn to find Miu getting to her feet. Feeling slightly hurt, Akimi frowned, "Miu-Chan, it is not funny."

Eyebrow raised, Miu rolled her eyes, "No, it is not. But that is not what I am laughing at, Akimi-Chan." Looking over her shoulder, the Hanyou smiled, "I am laughing because I have to rewrite my own acceptance letter to say much the same."

Her eyes widening, the other Onmyouji sucked in a breath, "Wait, you mean..."

A soft smile on her face, Miu placed a hand on her friend's shoulder, "I am going to be right there beside you, Akimi-Chan. We've been friends for this long, that I am not going to leave you there."

Getting to her own feet, Akimi smiled with tears in her eyes before hugging Miu, "Thank you, Miu-Chan. Just... thank you."

Only hugging her back, the crane Hanyou shook her head, "You don't need to thank me, Akimi-Chan." Patting Akimi, she grinned, "Besides, since my ship name means 'Nesting Pheonix', might as well get in some practice, hm?"

That got her laughs from her friend.

Less than three hours found Junyou leaning back in a chair in Goto's office as said Admiral as well as Nagato and Ooyodo read over the two letters. Setting them down, he clasped his hands, "You believe that they are serious?"

With a hum and adding some Irish cream to her coffee, and ignoring the grimace from Ooyodo, Junyou nodded, "I am reasonably sure that she wants to be awoken as soon as possible. From all my research into her background, I suspect that she wants to get it over with before she loses her nerve and backs out. Hence, asking for an awakening to be performed when we can."

Goto leaned back some in thought, "I see..." Turning towards the window, he frowned slightly, "Hmm, I suppose that I cannot blame her knowing what we do about her family's past. Knowing that she is the shipgirl of her Ojii-San's ship with the history he had could not be easy."

Checking her logs, Ooyodo gave a sigh, "If needed, we could perform it in two days at the minimum, though I would like to have three. We do have the supplies for such though, which helps."

Just closing his eyes, the Admiral did not say anything right away before he gave a small nod, "Very well. In that case, inform them that we can hold the ceremony in exactly four days from now for them to be awoken. And-"

Suddenly, there was a sound from his computer before Kongou's voice came through the speakers, "Teitoku! You got mail! Love letters are not allowed except from me!"

Utter silence descended upon the room before the three shipgirls turned to the computer with identical looks and raised eyebrows. Goto, meanwhile, just banged his head on the desk, "Dammit, Kongou..."

Pinching her nose, the lone Light Cruiser considered following the example of her Admiral. But then, she simply shrugged it off and walked around to examine the email before raising an eyebrow, "Hmm... it's from Tanaka."

That made Goto sit up straight almost like what had happened was almost forgotten... except for the red spot on his forehead. Opening it, he gave a small smile of his own, "Tanaka has talked with the Yokai that Harry identified as being Natural Borns. They, too, want to go through with it as soon as possible, though they asked that some of their pay be sent to the foster home that they lived at."

Eyebrow raised, Nagato crossed her arms before nodding, "I shall make sure of that than. Any idea when Tanaka wishes to have it done?"

Reading, the Admiral hummed, "According to this, he will be able to have it done in a few days as well." Slowly rubbing his knuckles in thought, he smiled a bit, "That will give him a rather big boost in the defenses up in Hokkaido."

Bemused, Junyou sipped her coffee, "Really? And you think that he will be able to keep them there?"

All Goto did was turn to her with a frown, "Yes, because I will be the one setting it up for that. They may come down here for training, but we shall be sending them as soon as possible back to Hokkaido."

Frowning, Nagato furrowed her eyebrows, "There is the question as to how to explain them though..."

In reply, the lone human in the office leaned back with a smirk on his face, "Don't have to do a thing actually." Seeing the looks, Goto waved a hand, "I... may have had a conversation with Yonehara. One repeated in a number of bars here and in Tokyo during visits to the Diet and Command with us speaking so softly that I am absolutely sure were not overheard. About the possibility of Natural Borns that could come from ships that were never laid down."

The other shipgirls all smirked a bit and shook their heads. After all, they were well used to this sort of thing from their Admiral and it was exactly the sort of thing that he would come up with to obfuscate the waters. At least until the Statute fell, which most estimated would be in a year or two at most by this point. Right at that point, a thought came to Junyou with made her frown. It came from nowhere, but after some examination, she realized it came from a member of her crew that had just returned from a visit to the Afterlife. Clearing her throat, Junyou waited until they had their attention, "Perhaps we should bring them to the Caldera when we perform the summoning there in two weeks?"

Confused, Ooyodo turned to her, "Why?"

Junyou waved a hand around, "Each of them would have large crews of magicals, you know? Hundreds of them maybe... So we can have them show up there and help boost the summoning."

For several moments, they considered that before nodding. But soon enough, they returned to their usual work as they got ready for what would happen in the next few days...

 

[darthcourt10]

M1Garand8

Whew, finally! Can't believe how long I've been stuck on this… But finally done!
EDIT: Corrected incorrect date stamp (07/08/2019)

---

Navy Day


*1*
Mother

24th April 2014

It was a muggy afternoon under an overcast sky in the South China Sea. Well, that was what the crew of the RSS Formidable grumbled about as the stealth frigate powered around in a fuel-efficient circle north of the Riau islands. Not that it bothered the young woman leaning on the barrel of the bow gun, her hazel french braided hair flapping in the stiff sea breeze and eyes boring into the horizon whenever the frigate turned north.

The gentle waves lapping over her hull-body and the occasional refreshing sea spray were all it took to keep herself cool in the muggy heat—being the spiritual embodiment of the frigate had its perks, after all. Unseen by the lookouts also scanning the horizon for any sign of Abyssals, Formidable continued her watchful gaze.

Everything had been uneventful so far, to the relief of everyone—ship spirit included—since 'excitement' here meant that the Abyssals were attacking. Said spirit was starting her hundred and forty-fifth round of 'observation' when an amused voice buzzed in her head:

"Formidable-jie, you know she won't appear faster even if you keep staring, right?"

Formidable froze, cheeks warming a touch at being caught out. She shot a look at the angular shape that was RSS Intrepid halfway to the horizon off to her right, a pout slowly forming as she felt the smugness wafting over from her younger sister.

"I-I wasn't staring," she said.

Formidable's pout deepened as giggles from her younger sister answered her denial.

"And perhaps you will actually grow some crow lines if you keep up that angry face, Mädchen," a new voice, even more smug than Intrepid's chipped in.

Now, Formidable turned her gaze due south, shooting a glare in the direction of RSS Victory and RSS Vigilance. She could imagine Victory's giant smirk on that smug face of the smug diminutive spirit standing on the bow of the missile corvette as she said that. Oh, that would not stand. "And you can catch a fly if you opened your fat mouth any wider, old maid," Formidable fired back.

The haughty titter of her rival was answer to her barb. "And little girlie can't come up with a creative insult to save her life." Victory sniffed, sounding more French than her German birth.

Standing on her own bridge, Vigilance said nothing, only giving a shake of her head at the frigate and the corvette before returning to scanning the horizons with the lookouts.

Formidable crossed her arms, in no way that looked like a little girl sulking. Really. "At least I don't look like a loli and still be left on a shelf."

"But that's how lolis end up in real life mah," Intrepid chimed in. "How to get a boyfriend when you look like xiao mei mei?"

Formidable rolled her eyes at the comment, resisting the urge to sigh. She could imagine the quizzical tilt of Intrepid's head as her sister ship said that.

"Intrepid, that's not the point."

"I am a dignified young Frau, not a loli, thank you very much."

Narrowing her eyes, Formidable was sure that Victory was doing the same thing as the both of them harrumphed over the data link and over the giggles of Intrepid. The stealth frigate opened her mouth for her latest jab at the annoying corvette when she felt the sharp ping of several radar returns. She froze.

She's here. Formidable was already running for the Combat Information Center when the second wave of returns pinged off her phased array radar. She's here! The spirit darted past her Sylver missile launchers, and phased through the pilothouse walls like she was never there. Technically, she really wasn't there. She was the ship, after all.

Formidable arrived at the darkened room, breathless.

"—esignate Track number one-six-six to one-eight-five. Bearing three-five-six. Course one-nine-five. Range seventy kilometers. Speed fourteen knots."

As the radar operator continued her report, it was clear what she was seeing. Formidable could see it in her mind too. A double column of twenty slow, lumbering merchant ships, surrounded by a ring of shipgirls and steel hulls from the Malaysian and Vietnamese navies. A convoy.

Not just any convoy, however, as it was the one scuttlebutt had been excited about. This convoy contained a special guest, one both the Singaporean and Malaysian governments have requested specifically. Supposedly. Nobody was sure after the debacle with the Royal Malaysian Navy more than two years ago.

"Maman!"

"Ma?! She's here?"

"Settle down, you two. We don't know whether she's in the convoy or not."

Vigilance said nothing. But Formidable imagined that the quiet corvette would've nodded at Victory's statement.

But she has to be! She promised! Formidable left the radar station, taking several steps towards the side of CIC, and stopped behind the communications specialist, just as his voice buzzed in her head:

"Shepherd, this is Kimba Lead, do you read?"

"Kimba Lead, this is Shepherd Lead, reading you five-by," a female voice lightly accented by Japanese answered almost at once.

Voice. Mid-twenties. Confident. Radar Analysis: 95% probable Japanese heavy cruiser Ashigara. Her sonar and radar computers helpfully supplied. Been a while since she did a convoy down south though. Formidable noted.

It was a thought she quickly discarded as she hovered over the specialist, trembling. Come on, come on… Ask her!

"Acknowledged, Shepherd Lead," the specialist said, to Formidable's consternation. "Requesting permission to join the formation."

Ashigara was silent for a few minutes, no doubt coordinating with the others before her voice once again crackled in Formidable's head: "Permission granted. Recommend come to heading zero-three-zero, then turn heading two-seven-four."

"Wilco, out."

Formidable pouted, crossing her arms at the uncooperative radioman. Third Sergeant Marcus Ong soon broke out in cold sweat as he felt a pair of eyes glaring daggers at him. Despite the air-conditioned room and being quite sure that everyone was at their stations and eyes glued to their own screens. It must be the flame-retardant hood he was wearing, he soon concluded.

The feeling only disappeared when Formidable turned with a huff and ducked out of the CIC and passed her Commanding Officer as she bounded up the stairs onto the bridge. Why, that stupid Specialist! She ought to give him a piece of her mind! If only she was corporeal. … Maybe in fifty years. If what her crew said about summonings was true...

Her shoulders slumped.

Fifty years. And then she would be useful, just like Mother. She could go anywhere, not stuck here… being useless. Useless as her crew directed her ship-body to do their bidding while she could only stand and watch. Like she and her crew did when the abyssal heavy cruisers and escorts laid waste to her newly adopted country all those years ago…

She shook her head. I'm not useless. She and Mother have been over this. She cast her gaze over the bridge crew. The Second-in-Command giving crisp maneuver orders to the Helm. The lookouts focused and scanning the seas and the skies. They were doing their best to run her and keep her safe.

Formidable's lip curled up in a small smile at that. She would do her best too! And she couldn't wait to show Mother how much she had grown since she last seen Formidable.

"Kimba, this is Little Hawk, welcome to the convoy, over."

Formidable let out a gasp at the cheerful voice she had hope to hear from for a long while. Maman! Her head turned, settling her gaze at a particular stretch of the horizon. She could almost see her… Almost.

Her radio crackled, and this time, her Commanding Officer spoke: "Thank you, Little Hawk. Caesar sends his regards, over."

"Acknowledged. Thank you, out."

Mother was out there. After so long…

Even if she could not see her right now, Formidable couldn't be happier.

---

A/N: Hmm, who is this mysterious Mother, I wonder?

The ranks aren't typos. The Singapore Navy uses Army ranks for all ranks except Flag and Officer cadet ranks and the same rank insignias for all branches, in order to not confuse the poor conscripts. Or so I heard. Same with job titles (Appointments as we would call it in the SAF).

And the "Specialist" here is the SAF equivalent of "Non-Commissioned Officer", not a particular rank like in the US Army.

Every navy has their quirks, I guess.

Xiao mei mei (小妹妹) - Little girl

Also, Victory is 26 (as of 2014), so she's not 'wrong'.

[/hr]

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

Stretching, Shiromizu gave a happy sigh, "Finally, it's spring."

Lips twitching, Harry chuckled a bit, "It is rather nice." Closing his eyes, he tilted his head back and allowed for the warm, April sun to beam down onto it. Upon opening his eyes, he glanced at one of the trees, "It is going to be a nice Hanami this year, I think."

A chuckle made him turn and look at Kiso who grinned, "Aye, that it should be. An' ye will be spending it with Maruyu and the others of course."

To that, the black haired wizard smiled and nodded, "Hai." Turning back to Shiromizu, Harry tilted his head to the side some, "So, um... we're heading over to the Submarine Pens to present something to Maruyu-Chan?"

Lightly blushing, Shiromizu nodded some, "Hai, that is right."

Eyebrow slowly raising, Harry gave her a look, "Hmm... just one question." When she nodded, he continued, "Why are we giving this sword to Maruyu-Chan now? And not earlier? Like Christmas?"

Needless to say, that made the Mizuchi's blush deepen, not helped by how Kiso spoke up, "I've been wonderin' that myself."

Rubbing the back of her neck, Shiromizu chuckled weakly, "Well... I sort of forgot with everything going on until after Christmas. And by then, you were back at Hogwarts."

Confused at that, Harry blinked some, "What do you mean by that?"

For her part, the Light Cruiser hummed as she cupped her chin and looked at Harry, "Actually, I can see why. And it is very wise."

Shiromizu gave a nod, "I know, right? It would not have worked unless Harry here was there when it was given. Not worked at all."

If anything, that made Harry blink, "What? What are the two of you talking about?"

Both older girls shared a look and smirked some before they turned back to him and spoke as one, "Don't worry about it."

Rolling his eyes, Harry sighed some, "Right, why did I expect otherwise with the two of you." Hands in his pockets, he looked at the wooden box that the teenaged Mizuchi was carrying, "Still, Maruyu-Chan is going to be happy. I mean, a Muramasa? Forged specifically for her? That's going to be special."

Her lips curling upwards a touch, Shiromizu turned to Kiso who had a similar smirk, "You have no idea at all, Harry. None."

Now confused, Harry gave a huff and walked a bit faster as the Mizuchi and shipgirl behind him snickered at whatever they found funny.

Soon enough though, they reached the Submarine Pens and entered them. Upon entering the Common Area, they were met by Iku and the others there, with a confused Maruyu there. Looking first at Harry, who she gave a hug to and then at Shiromizu as well as Kiso, the small Subgirl blinked, "Good morning, Harry-Chan, Shiromizu-San, Kiso-Nee-San... what's going on?"

Eyebrow raised as she crossed her arms, Kiso grinned, "What do you mean, Maruyu?"

Just pointing at her, and raising her own eyebrow, Maruyu frowned, "About all this. We got word from Teitoku that we were supposed to be here for some reason, including me." She lightly blushed as she glanced at Harry, "Not that I would be leaving for a bit, Hanami is coming up after all."

A soft smile on his face, Harry shrugged, "And I'm looking forward to spending it with you all."

Blushing lightly, Maruyu smiled back at him before turning towards where Kiso and Shiromizu were. That was until the Mizuchi held out a wooden box, 'What is that?'

Taking a deep breath, the young Kami began, "As you all know, last October I went to Izumo for Kannazuki. Mainly because I was new and needed to present myself."

Hachi grimaced a bit at that reminder, "Hai, I remember." Moments later, they could hear steel under strain from how hard she was clenching her fist at the memories, "Especially how you mentioned that my bastard of a Captain was there. I will admit to being... tempted to go with you next year to show him my disapproval."

Gently, Iku placed her arm around Hachi's shoulders to calm her, which worked out as the blonde haired Submarine relaxed some. For her part, Shiromizu nodded, "And as I told you, I might take you up on it. After all, you are a Kami so you could go there. But it would also mean a full month away from things." Getting a nod from Hachi, she turned back to Maruyu, "During my last days there, I received visitors, the legendary swordsmiths Masamune and Muramasa themselves."

More than one pair of eyes widened at that with the Submarines as well as Taigei and Ryuuhou looking shocked at what they were just told. Jaw dropped, Imuya boggled at her, "Y-you met Masamune-Sama and Muramasa-Sama? And... and they're Kami?"

With a hum, Shiromizu nodded, "Hai, I did. Mainly because they sought me out."

Furrowing her eyebrows, Taigei frowned a bit, "Shiromizu-San, I... hate if this sounds disrespectful of you, but-"

Lips twitching, the Mizuchi spoke up, "You are wondering why the two of them sought me out?" At the sheepish nod, Shiromizu chuckled, "Well, as unbelievable as it may seem, they sought me out to deliver gifts for them."

Already, Maruyu's eyes were widening as she started to realize what was being said, 'She could not be here because...'

However, Shiromizu was continuing, "One of those was a Tanto, Hogosha Odori, crafted by Masamune specifically for Jintsuu-San. He believed that due to how she had taken care of her family and fought the Abyssals, that she exemplified what the Samurai were. And thus, created her a blade worthy of any Samurai. He stated that it could cut through any spiritual being's flesh as well as a normal one of his blades would cleave through a normal being."

Snapping her fingers, Shioi nodded, "I remember hearing about Jintsuu-San having that actually! From what I heard, a Ru-Class attempted to take her out and Jintsuu-San cut off it's head in a single stroke."

Murmurs met that proclamation as the Subgirls were all reminded of the rumour. Waiting for a few seconds though, Shiromizu chuckled, "Now, Muramasa though, crafted another blade." Opening the box, she showed the Kodachi that was within it, "This is Gyakuryuu, the blade he crafted specifically for you, Maruyu-Chan."

The little Submarine's voice came out in a squeak of surprise, "For me!?"

Unable to help herself, Shiromizu chuckled, "Yes, for you." Looking at the sword, she smiled, "The blade itself was forged from blocks of metal with barbs from an Isonade within them. The hilt is decorated with coral from deep under the sea close to Ryuujin-Sama's palace, and the metal of the hilt is made from the tooth of an Sachihoko. And during the forging process, the metal was quenched using the oil gathered from an Ikuchi. From what he stated, it would cut through water as easily as a normal blade would through air, but would cut through air as if it was water... Though he was certain that you would not be having too much difficulty with that."

Reaching over, RO grasped Maruyu's upper arms in her hands and gave them a small squeeze, "With guns like these? Ha! Maruyu-Chan will have no problem."

Chuckles met her as the Army Submarine blushed and swiped at the laughing Uboat who dodged. As she stopped laughing, Shiromizu shook her head, "The materials mean that unlike most blades, seawater will not affect it and it will not corrode from being exposed to such. It is also sharp like his other blades, and so Abyssals will be able to be killed by it. Perfect for one such as you."

Eyes wide, Maruyu stared at the blade and chewed her lip, "I... a blade made for me by such a legend... I am not sure that I am worthy of it." A snort made her turn and find Harry crossing his arms, "Harry-Chan?"

Shaking his head, the thirteen year old gave her a look and his next words made her flush deeply, "I would say the opposite, Maruyu-Chan. It would need to be worthy of you."

Just looking at him, she smiled some, "Thank you, Harry-Chan."

With a nod, Harry paused before a thought occurred to him. He walked over to the box and took Gyakuryuu from it before walking over with both the blade and the belt that would be used for it, "Here, Maruyu-Chan... give me a moment." Unknown to him, Maruyu swore her engines stopped as he crouched down and wrapped the belt around her small waist before putting the sheathed blade into the proper place. Standing, Harry took a step back and saluted to her, which Maruyu returned with a bright smile, "And there we go, where it properly should be."

In Maruyu's eyes were small tears as she nodded, "And as it should be properly given." Walking over, she gave Harry a tight hug, "Thank you, Harry-Chan..." Looking up at him, she kissed him gently for a few seconds before pulling away, "Thank you."

Lightly blushing, though brightly smiling, Harry gave a nod before returning the kiss as the others around them clapped their hands, "You're welcome, Maruyu-Chan."

Clapping her on the back, Kiso grinned, "You just ask and I'll teach yeh all that I know about using the blade, Maruyu."

Quickly, the small Subgirl nodded, "Hai, I'll take you up on that, Mogu-mogu." Hand on the hilt, she softly stroked, "Though it would be mostly me refining what I know."

That made Harry's eyes widen a touch, "You know how to use a sword, Maruyu-Chan?"

Humming, Maruyu nodded some, "Hai, one of my crew was very good with the blade... unlike some who claimed otherwise. He was taught by a Miko at a Shrine named Tokunotakai." Unsheathing the blade, she examined the bluish grey metal, which seemed to have slight barbs here and there along the top. When she sheathed it, she was grinning even more before she turned and took another kiss from Harry, 'Today is a good day...'

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Butterknife Mountie Meets The In-Laws VI

Azabu Tansumachi Tenryoan, Roppongi Grand Plaza Second Floor, Tokyo
Spoiler: Masamune and Muramasa

Ying slowly cleaned and re-sheathed herself automatically after reapplying the illusion that concealed her Spirit Pearl.

Fifteen Yakuza had been combat-capable when Fudo drew herself.

Twelve had thrown down their weapons and surrendered.

One had cast a Imperius Curse at Fudo, who blurred out of the way and then disarmed the shooter... at the shoulder of his wand arm. A second wolf Yaojing had swung a katana at the Masamune only to be gutted like a fish by the return strike. Then there was the monstrous Yaojing - Oni as the Japanese had called these creatures - who had been first on the scene.

He had lasted three swings of her blade. The first lopped off a segment of his iron mace when he swung it at Fudo. The second removed the hand holding the mace. Then the third slash of her incandescently glowing blade took his head.

That was the last blow struck in the fight. Fudo walked over to the bar slowly and sat down after sparing a glare at the half-naked fox-girl who was trying to sidle away.

Ying's eyes narrowed as she saw the Masamune wipe some blood away from her lips, and reflected on her observation of the technique that was used.

Taoist magical theory was based on the Three Treasures. Jing, the essence of the body, Qi the breath of the spirit, and Shen, the divine soul-spark of the mage. Fudo had apparently used her pool of shen, or perhaps an outside source to convert to Qi which in turn supercharged her speed, strength, and durability to superhuman levels.

Frankly, Ying was shocked that the other sword spirit was still breathing, much less conscious. That sort of technique was both highly esoteric and highly forbidden for good reasons. Too much qi was as bad as too little and could rip the body to pieces as it did things that it was not designed to do. And the expenditure of too much shen would kill the practitioner as their life force was snuffed out like a candle that could no longer keep burning....

And clearly Fudo's qi was at a dangerously low level with her expenditures in the fight plus her spell to call upon her shen.

Ying bit her lip as she struggled with herself.

Fudo was in a cleft stick of her own carving, slowly wasting away as her breath became more and more labored and she coughed up fresh blood. She was Japanese, a member of the nation that had attacked and despoiled the Middle Kingdom of her heritage while committing unspeakable and unforgivable crimes. She was clearly dangerous and had an obsession with her father, assuming the worst of Colombe in the facts that she knew. She had attacked Delilah de Breuil, one of Ying's oldest living friends, unprovoked.

But, what would it say about Ying if she stood by and let Fudo slowly and painfully expire? What would her father, who was a person of honor and her mother who had taught her to be the Superior Person of Confucianism say? What would her conscience say to her? What would Guan Yu say to her when she next prayed to Him to uphold Righteousness and Justice if she was unrighteous and unjust?

As she finished casting the final binding spell on the captive yakuza, Ying came to a decision. Even though this other spirit had an apparent feud with her father, even though she was Japanese, she could not in good conscience let that interfere with her duty and calling. After all, "To see what was right and not do it was the worst cowardice", as Master Kǒng had taught generations of Chinese.

As Amah had taught her Little Fox from the moment that she was able to understand language.

With that she walked over to the pale-faced Masamune and gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "Fudo-san?"

Pain-filled gold eyes filled with the acceptance of her approaching death stared into hers. "What?"

"Let me help?" Ying said, communicating her wishes with a stare into Fudo's eyes.

Fudo visibly fought with herself for long moments as she visibly weakened and finally gave a hesitant nod.

Ying took a deep breath and grasped the hilt of her sheathed dao true body in her white-knuckled hand. She felt her avatar concentrate as much of her stored qi in her lungs as she could spare, then leaned forward and kissed Fudo on the lips. As she did, her mouth opened and she exhaled that portion of her spiritual energies into Fudo's open mouth to heal and regenerate her.

As their lips parted, a wisp of ghostly-white vapor escaped as the tanto looked at her wide-eyed. Gold eyes shone with a unspoken message of relief and thankfulness that family pride and self-discipline would not allow her to say aloud.

Of course, Jacklyn didn't help either.

"Oi! Two girl show, and I'm watchin'!" The fox-girl smugged at the two other spirits.

Ying gave Jacklyn a firm glare as Fudo stood. "Jackie, behave yourself and put some clothes on." The dao said firmly with the experience of dealing with rambunctious younger siblings, then nephews and nieces without counting.

With that the manager returned with several Aurors in tow along with some fairly burly 'busboys' and 'kitchen staff'. Idly Ying wondered if the 'head chef' coming to the rescue really used that katana to make chopped sirloin.

---------------------------------

Fifteen minutes later, Ying rubbed her face. The surviving Dojin-kai soldiers had been carted off by the Aurors, the manager had agreed to waive the bill and promised excellent VIP service for her the next time she visited after the renovations. One of the 'busboys' had even found clothes for Aomi and Jacklyn 'on the house'. Ying had more than a few suspicions that she would be getting a social call from a yakuza representative in the near future as part of the cleanup after giving the manager her contact information.

She had even more suspicions that the Dojin-kai syndicate's days were numbered in low single digits. Coming to the attention of law enforcement magical and mundane while invading another syndicate's turf was quite ill advised even if one was strong. Having a full double-dozen foot soldiers sent to the jail house (twelve), the hospital (five) or the morgue (seven) was hardly an auspicious way to begin an all-out multi-sided gang war.

Fortunately, Ying as a known RCMMP officer on assignment here was able to explain away to the Aurors that 'of course Auror de Breuil has a license for the pistol she used on file at MACUSA (Ying fervently hoped that Delilah did have that done for her favorite antique), it is a family heirloom that she can carry on the job and she would say so if she did not catch a paralysis curse during the fight', 'of course Jacklyn Fox was running to the nearest law enforcement officer after finding out that to her shock that the bathhouse she decided to clean up in was actually a front for sex slavery and prostitution' and 'of course it was self defense officer, what else was I supposed to do when they all showed up with bad intentions?'.

Equally fortunately, the Aurors and especially the Yakuza knew who Fudo was and were treating her with utmost respect.

With that she glanced over at her motly crew. Fudo was giving the still paralyzed Delilah thoughtful glances and wobbling although out of danger. Delilah, bruised, and soaking wet from where she had landed in the shattered remains of the toilet was was matching Fudo's looks with angry glares of her own. Jacklyn "Call me Jackie luv" Fox was chatting with the inugami girl Aomi, who seemed to be in shock.

Ying really could not blame her. This dinner was easily making her top-ten craziest moments. And it was still not over.

Ying could still hear Delilah's angry voice echoing in her head. "TELL COLOMBE THAT I'M BUSY HERE! SIS CAN WAIT UNTIL THIS IS OVER!"

How long had Delilah known Colombe and not told her? Was it true that Delilah... and Jacklyn... and Colombe were sisters?

Somewhere, somehow, she knew that deities were laughing at what her instincts were screaming at her was true.

Oh, God, my Aunt wanted to hit on me according to Delilah. Amah will die laughing when I tell her.

With that she looked at Fudo. "Um, I think we should take Delilah-san, Fox-san, and Sato-san someplace private to have that conversation and remove Delilah's paralysis?"

Fudo nodded and looked down at her bloodstained outfit.

"My house then."

----------------------------------

Fudo's House, Adachi Ward, Tokyo

The drive over was a silent one. Fudo's 'land barge' of an American car was enough to hold Delilah, Jacklyn, and Aomi in the back (and judging by the whispers and giggles, Aomi was enjoying the ride) while Ying sat next to Fudo up front. The Masamune blade spirit was clearly deep in thought as she navigated the evening traffic.

Finally she cast an unlocking spell and tapped a garage opener. A heavy security gate silently retracted and Ying's eyes widened at the home revealed.
Spoiler: Casa del Fudo

In a country where space was a premium a house for one person was the height of luxury. Much less the glass and concrete modern house presented with subtle space-expansion, muggle-averting, and notice-me-not wards worked into the building and the grounds..

Fudo quietly spoke as she parked the car. "I have spare bedrooms for you. If you want, I can make a call and have your suitcase sent over, Ying,"

Ying shook her head. "I should handle it myself, Fudo-san. Some of the items in it have security spells on them.."

With that they got out and muscled Delilah inside to a couch. Jackie followed, grabbing a sealed scroll from the Owl Mail box.

Fudo frowned and then tapped a series of pressure points as she concentrated; using the qi that Ying had gifted her.

Delilah finally stirred and then glared at Fudo. "It's about time. That was not fun at all."

Ying raised a hand. "Before the argument starts, I have one question for you, Del. Is it true that you are Colombe du Chasteler's younger half-sister? Because if so..." The dao took a deep breath. "I seem to have found a new Aunt today."

 

[darthcourt10]

Hazard



Translated excerpt from 'Nederlandse Slagen tijdens Bloedweek' (Dutch Battles during Blood Week)
First Battle of Den Haag
(Alias, First Battle of The Hague, First Battle of 's Gravenhage)

When the Abyssal tide swept down from the north in a coordinated strike on all targets of interest, the Dutch center of government fared rather poorly. Unlike the centers of government for many other nations, Den Haag is situated right at the coast, with parliament only 4 kilometers from the coast. As a result, the city is particularly vulnerable to a seaborne assault, as the Abyssals would so bloodily demonstrate in the opening hours of Blood Week.

Although all governments had stepped up sea patrols in the lead up to the Abyssal War, Abyssal forces had made a point of stifling any report that could've made it back to higher authorities by hunting down and silencing anyone and everyone who spotted them. This lack of reports in the early morning hours worried the Dutch military and they stepped up readiness as they could while readying the next rotation of patrols to go in early, but halfway through the morning Abyssal forces arrived at the harbour of Scheveningen and launched an immediate amphibious invasion of ground forces, backed by the guns of the battleship squadron and their escorts. Resistance in the early stages was sporadic.

While a company of the 11th Air Mobile Brigade had been deployed to The Hague on guard duty, they had concentrated their deployment on key government and public transportation infrastructure in accordance with the expectation of a terrorist threat. This, combined with the limited weaponry and restricted rules of engagement for the police meant that defenders were scattered and unable to offer effective resistance against an enemy that outnumbered them, was better equipped, and had achieved total surprise.

As standard for Abyssal forces performing an assault, considerable damage was done along the assault corridor, with many buildings leveled and people gunned down in the streets. The Abyssal assault appears to have been mostly focused on causing damage to a large number of targets, many small groups of Abyssal forces detached from the main assault group making their way to Lower Chamber of the States-General, attacking the many embassies along the way along with the Peace Palace, doing great damage to all targets they could reach.

Moving swiftly but still needing to cover some 4 kilometers on foot in hostile territory, Abyssal forces were finally met with stiffer resistance in the Sea Heroes' Quarter just before Palace Noordeinde. At this time the battle had been going on for nearly an hour, and command paralysis was finally starting to lapse as Dutch military leadership deployed its forces to repel simultaneous strikes on Rotterdam, Den Helder and Den Haag. The Air Mobile Brigade, having already deployed parts of its forces into the city would come and reinforce it over the course of the day, deploying by Chinook. Ground travel into the Randstad was impossible due to the severe chaos on the roads as civilians fled the violence.

By the afternoon, the battle lines had largely drawn themselves closed. Dutch forces had already suffered 10% casualties at this stage of the battle, but liberal use of anti tank weaponry as well as Apache and F-16 based air support allowed the defenders to mostly confine the Abyssal forces until the night.

The Abyssals, realizing their attacks were stalled and most likely no longer capable of completing their suspected goal of a decapitation strike on the Dutch government dug in and waited for reinforcements.

The second day of the battle would see a slow advance of Abyssal forces against a stubborn but flagging resistance as the Dutch logistical situation grew more dire. While there was a sizable stockpile of munitions available, the stockpiles themselves were dozens of kilometers from the front and Abyssal air power was complicating delivery. The deployment of Abyssal air forces also forced F-16s away from their desperately needed air support role towards maintaining air superiority. The advance made little progress however, moving only 2 streets until it reached the gates of Palace Noordeinde.

Now close to what must've seemed a critical component in local resistance, the Abyssals maintained their assault in the night, eventually gaining access to and setting fire to the Palace's main building. This may have been an ill advised decision. The Marine Corps arrived halfway through the night to reinforce the defense.

The third day of the battle saw the column of smoke rising from Palace Noordeinde loom over the battlefield in condemnation. Abyssal forces had at this time received extra ground forces drawn from reserves elsewhere and they pressed their attack. They were met with a fierce and unyielding resistance from the 11th Air Mobile Brigade and the marines, aided by the self propelled artillery stationed further east, outside the city. Unfortunately, Abyssal numbers and battleship grade artillery support forced the defenders back again repeatedly as casualties mounted further, and by noon the Abyssals had finally managed to take the buildings of the Lower Chamber of the States General.

It was promptly burned.

Outraged, furious assaults on Abyssal positions followed, forcing them back despite a notable enemy advantage in the air and artillery. However, as the day turned to night the exhausted defenders let up on the attacks as the lines set themselves for dawn the next day.

Day four of the battle was largely inconclusive, with heavy fighting in the ruins depleting stocks of munitions in the face of mounting casualties. However, it seems that the Abyssals either had determined there would be no more benefit to fighting here, and they left their ground forces behind while the fleet retreated.

By day five the Dutch had run significantly low on munitions. While they could and did keep the Abyssal ground forces in the city pinned down and unable to retreat, they did not have the munitions to push into the defenses. As such, the lines did not change, but the composition of the defenders did. Germany had agreed early in Bloodweek to render any and all assistance they could to their allies, but with much of Europe's coasts under attack they had to consider where to deploy their troops with some care. This was not helped by the fact that many German forces were stationed far from the coasts, and would need to move men and material hundreds of kilometers into Belgium, the Netherlands and Denmark. While the German Air Force started supporting allied efforts by day 2 of Blood Week at the latest, it was only by day 5 that their ground forces and logistical support could move in in force.

Taking on most of the frontline duties to keep the Abyssals bottled up while the Dutch forces took the remainder of the day off to rest and reconstitute their forces, the day swiftly passed into night.

Early on day 6 of Blood Week Dutch and German command staff had managed to finalize a coordinated attack plan on the Sea Heroes' Quarter and all other occupied areas of the city. Heavy fighting would happen over the following days as the Dutch-German forces took back the city one house at a time and rooted out the Abyssal forces remaining.

 

[darthcourt10]

Hazard



Translated excerpt from 'Nederlandse Slagen tijdens Bloedweek' (Dutch Battles during Blood Week)
Raid on Den Helder

In the early, confusing hours of the first day of Blood Week, coordinated strikes against key government and military facilities by Abyssal forces were common place and highly effective. The Raid on Den Helder was quite typical of Abyssal attacks on key naval facilities the Abyssals did not want to take, although the relatively late time at which the attack was launched against Den Helder specifically allowed the Royal Navy enough time to avoid getting caught in port.

Unfortunately, while the Dutch ships were well built and capable, they were facing an enemy that equaled their own numbers but carried much more effective weaponry for the battle they were about to fight.

Hearing through the military networks that their allies were under attack from the sea and in need of assistance, naval high command immediately put its forces on alert and prepared its ships to set sail to whatever ally seemed most in need and could be reached fast enough. Halfway through the morning the order to set sail was received and all military ships in the Den Helder harbour immediately set course for the North Sea. As they passed Fort Erfprins they were caught by surprise by an Abyssal task force led by 2 Ri-class cruisers that was moving through the channel between the Noorderhaaks sandbank and the island of Texel. A stunned Dutch navy force swiftly rallied as cruiser shells rained down upon them, but they were caught out of position and many of their weapons could not effectively target and damage the enemy cruisers or their escorts.

Severely outclassed, the Dutch forces offered a furious but unfortunately brief resistance. Nearly all ships were sunk and many sailors went down with their ships. Luckily, the relatively shallow waters and closeness of the shore to the battle allowed many of the survivors to swim to safety, somewhat limiting the losses suffered.

The way now open to the Abyssal cruisers and their escorts, the naval base at Den Helder took severe damage as it was bombarded for half an hour before air strikes performed by Royal Air Force F-16s convinced the Abyssal force that staying further was not worth the risk of further air strikes doing damage, instead of many misses. The bombardment greatly focused itself on military installations, leaving most of the city of Den Helder unmolested. As a parting gift however several shots were fired at the Royal Navy College and the museum submarine ship Hr. Ms. Tonijn, causing a devastating fire in the former and severely damaging the latter.

 

[darthcourt10]

Hazard



The Waddensea Campaign
A condensed overview of a crucial campaign early in the Abyssal War in Europe.

Blood Week was a time of major confusion, with human militaries forced to adapt to an enemy they had not considered possible in the face of terrible odds. On day 0, a coordinated strike on humanity's naval infrastructure, war making capabilities and government facilities neatly paralized the response, with many nations needing hours to days to rally and respond to attacks and invasions. It was not until day 4 of the Abyssal conflict that the Abyssal forces were being forced back instead of Abyssals yielding the field for juicier targets.

The seed of the Waddensea Campaign was sown on day +2 of the Abyssal War, when a fleet of Abyssals managed to sneak onto the Dutch island of Texel during the evening with the sun low on the horizon and established the first, documented Abyssal Installation. Abyssal ground forces securing the site of the Installation quickly ran into Royal Marine patrols on the island ranging out from the Royal Marines Amphibious Operations School housed there in the Joost Dourlein Barracks, and a battle that would've been extremely lopsided on the seas was still lopsided, but decidedly less so as the marines successfully broke contact with minimal casualties and raised the alarm. Caught in an early stage of deployment, sooner than the early morning than it must have anticipated, Dutch forces immediately began the reconnaissance of the enemy forces present and showcased over the course of the campaign the deployment, construction and evolution of an Abyssal Installation from early construction as a resupply point to a full blown military base with on site construction capabilities.

The forces on base at this early time were noted to be 'substantial', although exact figures remain classified, and Dutch authorities declared the evacuation of all civilians from the island with no exceptions and with all possible haste. The active malice with which the Abyssals pursue humanity and the many massacres that stem from that sentiment were already well known. Evacuating some 13 000 people from an island in combat conditions is quite a challenge however, and only some 10 000 citizens were removed during this early evacuation that still took two days.

Aware of the risk to the evacuations that come with stuffing as many people as possible onto a transport, coordinated strikes by Dutch and German air forces acting in tandem with marines on the ground were conducted to force the Abyssals into a defensive stance and to prevent them from striking out at the evacuations being conducted from 't Horntje to Den Helder by ship, boat and helicopter. Although successful, by the time Blood Week had ended on day +7 of the Abyssal War it also meant that the Installation was well fortified against air attack, while repeated probing attacks on the base's perimeter ensured it was also well protected from attacks from the ground. Abyssal ground forces ranging from the base on patrol also tended to move in platoon size, often supported with an anti air imp of some sort, although designs and equipment of those imps varied over the course of the campaign.

The heavy defensive focus of the Installation would lead to many errors in planning to take on Installations later in the war. It was not a typical example; only the constant pressure exerted by Dutch and later also the allied forces caused the Installation to focus so much on protecting itself, rather than focus on building up its sea side facilities and other capabilities.

With Blood Week ended, so also ended much of the general offensive of the Abyssals. One should not make the mistake of presuming this meant that the Abyssals left humanity alone; rather, Abyssal forces reorganized into greater fleet units and shifted their focus from the areas they had not taken to establishing and maintaining their hold on the areas they had. This meant that by and large humanity had lost access to much of the oceans, and forcing entry into Abyssal territory would require sizable fleets of shipgirls, be it as escorts or as task forces. The North Sea was relatively free of Abyssal forces, although not fully. Nordic Raider Princess was still active and sowing terror in the Baltic and North Seas for one, and for another, while on many oceans the Abyssals had managed to establish positions, on the southern end of the North Sea they had only 1 Installation.

Right on Texel.

That it was an Installation under siege did not matter much; fleets of Abyssals from the Atlantic regularly ran the gauntlet between the UK and Norwegian coasts towards the Dutch island, as bait, as threat, as reinforcements and for supplies. While often engaged by shipgirl forces and intercept actions became more effective over time as tactics were refined and reinforcements summoned, it had become clear to allied command as the war passed its 20th day that something needed to be done about it.

The Dutch demanded of allied command that they be allowed to handle the matter with some support. Allied command was well aware of the state of the Dutch forces following Blood Week, with limited supplies and already low in numbers before accounting for casualties suffered during the battles for Rotterdam, Den Helder and The Hague. Nonetheless, allied command was also very busy dealing with the incessant raids from Abyssal forces probing the Atlantic coasts of Europe and the USA. Quite simply, they were stretched thin already.

The Installation had not sat idle while humanity plotted. It had started production of Abyssal small craft and would soon be fielding TP imps in numbers, while its ground forces would soon be under the umbrella of an artillery battery situated on base. While the positioning of the guns meant that they'd be nearly useless against a close in assault, they none the less offered substantial weight of fire to Abyssal patrols on the island that ran into human troops.

By day +24, Dutch plans to retake the island had been finalized and were being implemented. For the duration of the campaign the island of Texel had been a contested battleground, with Abyssal and Dutch forces skirmishing across it with limited support. Over twenty days of conflict the battles had ranged from 't Horntje in the south to the Texel lighthouse in the north, with only the Installation as a fixed point, situated in the Slufter nature preserve. Dutch forces made extensive use of their relatively strong air presence, fielding helicopters and aircraft for fire support, supplies and mobility purposes. They also commonly served as evacuation craft for citizens that were still left on the island, although by this point nearly all had already been evacuated.

Kicking off on day +26, the offensive was conducted by the 11th Air Mobile Brigade, veterans of the battle of Den Haag, supported by elements of the 13th Light Brigade. The 43rd Armour Brigade was kept as a reserve, partially out of uncertainty regarding the island soil's load bearing capacity, and partially because the 43rd's tanks and other vehicles were too heavy to be flown in easily. The Marines already on the island were left in place; they would link up and provide up to date intelligence before being rotated out for R&R after 3 weeks of war.

Despite initial gains, heavy fighting and casualties soon followed on the island's flat agricultural fields, which still largely laid fallow or had been burned down to a stubble. Unable to press the attack home against unexpectedly heavy Abyssal resistance equipped with new vehicles, a reversal would follow over the coming days, and by day +31, human forces had been removed from the island entirely.

More worrisome, new Abyssal naval forces were identified at the same time in the base, and they could not have come from a convoy. While these gaggles of imps did not seem overly threatening, their first deployments made clear their threat levels. A daring, night time raid on Den Helder by imps severely delayed repairs to the base, and flat out leveled the Navy College, while strikes carrying ground forces further down the island chain threatened the islands of Vlieland and Terschelling. Evacuations for these islands were called, although they had already been slowly emptying as the war went on and Texel was not liberated.

With the failure of the 11th Air Mobile Brigade to fulfill its objectives despite promising early gains, Dutch high command was forced to once again reconsider its deployments. Between the casualties suffered during the battle for The Hague and the campaign on Texel it had dropped below 50% of its strength even accounting for the battalion of reserves earmarked for it. It had basically become a combat ineffective formation and would need time to integrate replacement forces before it could be deployed again. Likewise had the Marines suffered severely in the campaign and Blood Week, with many casualties suffered during the Battle for Rotterdam and the conflict on Texel.

Shipgirl command offered the use of Hr Ms Van Galen, Hr Ms Java, Hr Ms Sumatra and Hr Ms Hertog Hendrik for shore bombardment and supporting operations, while Hr Ms Abraham Crijssen could serve in a mine laying role. The effectiveness of shipgirl command in the campaign cannot be overstated. Through a still poorly understood interaction between the existences of shipgirls and Abyssals, shipgirl munitions and shipgirl operated equipment tends to perform very well against the otherwise eldritch protections the Abyssals benefit from. While Abraham Crijssen performed very well in her mine laying and sweeping roles, her real value was swiftly realized to be her potential as a scout, given her excellent camouflage and observation skills.

While not trained for such operations, Abraham Crijssen saw and exploited many an opportunity to spy on enemy briefings and acquire enemy documentation, all without being noticed. The remaining shipgirls performed many raids and bombardments on Abyssal positions in support of troops, often at the guidance of Abraham Crijssen, with devastating accuracy.

Dutch and allied high command conferred extensively over the next week to examine intelligence and develop a plan of attack. It had been concluded that, based on then known information, the Dutch attack plan had been sound, and could be used as a basis for another attack. While the Marines and the 11th Air Mobile had effectively been rendered combat ineffective and reinforcements by conscript forces still months away at best, Dutch high command decided that both units would serve in the next offensive operation as well, if as supporting elements and as garrisons for the Wadden Islands.

Meanwhile, the 13th Light Brigade and the 43rd Armoured Brigade would serve as the main force. The biggest issue the previous attack had faced was that the new vehicles faced by the 11th Air Mobile were simply too tough to take down with their equipment, so properly equipped anti tank teams and the Dutch own tanks would close that gap. Support by allied forces would largely be limited to air forces, although allied special operations teams would serve along with the Korps Commando Troepen in sabotage, recon and assault roles.

Texel's Installation Princess was not idle while these plans were made and prepared. Another ring of defenses were identified, along with upgrades to existing defenses. A new structure on the Installation was also identified and determined to be a construction slip that could fit a ship of approximately 1500 tons of displacement. This meant that the Installlation would soon be able to start fielding destroyers. The plans could not be moved however.

On day +58, the allied forces were finally ready to retake Texel. Multiple attempts by Texel's Installation to expand to other islands had been thwarted, if not without casualties on humanity's side, or the occasional toe hold that was swiftly bombed into submission.

On day +59, allied forces launched a new amphibious assault on Texel. The beach defenses were ably suppressed by the Dutch shipgirl forces, with the forces landing with only limited opposition and striking out to capitalize on the breakthrough. Resistance was nonetheless stiff.

On day +60, a renewed attack by the 43rd Armoured finally caused a breakthrough to form in spite of mounting casualties. By the end of the day, roughly half the island was back in human hands.

On day +61, a counter attack by the Installation is blocked by long range bombardment by shipgirl command. While not much progress is made in terrain, it's believed the Installation lost a lot of troops in that attack, likely easing the rest of the battle.

On day +62, another attack by the Installation, this time supported by heavy tanks of some sort, fails as the tanks sink away in the loose sand, exactly as how the Dutch had worried about the 43rd Armoured's tanks. The tanks are destroyed in place except for a few examples to be studied.

On day +63, humanity manages to retake the momentum and retakes north Texel. While strictly speaking not that useful, it limits the installation's option. Units reorient to maintaining the siege of the Installation in preparation of a renewed assault in to the teeth of its defenses. Heavy navy, air and artillery bombardments take place in support of this goal.

On day +70 humanity finally hoists the flag over the Installation. Damage was heavy, and some 1500 people are still missing from the island, never to be found again. The entire Dutch military is basically spend as a result of this campaign; nearly 7000 soldiers from the army are either dead over the course of two months of fighting or so severely injured they can serve no further, most of the navy sunk and its air units losing at least a quarter of its air frames. It is agreed by allied high command that Dutch forces will not serve in front line roles for at least a year as the military is rebuild, while many veterans of the campaign go on to teach tactics to other assault forces fighting Abyssal fortifications.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Butterknife Mountie Meets The In-Laws VII

Fudo's House, Adachi Ward, Tokyo
Spoiler: Family Matters

"Before the argument starts, I have one question for you, Del. Is it true that you are Colombe du Chasteler's younger half-sister? Because if so... I seem to have found a new Aunt today." Ying's words hovered in the air between her and her long-time rival and classmate.

Delilah idly noticed that Jackie's eyes were bulging and her sister was turning an interesting shade of pale white. Fudo gave the Chinese girl a frozen stare.

As for Delilah, she fought with herself.

She's a policeman, sworn to the RCMMP and upholding the ICW. Revealing this to her would put Mother at risk for having a child with a blade spirit and concealing it from MACUSA. Zamarad too would be exposed if word got back to the wrong ears. All my hard work would be for nothing if she reveals this to the wrong ears. She's probably still sore about the Whomping Willow incident in third year Herbology class where I humiliated her. Colombe is a wanted fugitive.

How can I trust her?

And yet, other voices warred in her head.

You trusted Louise, and Emily before and your trust was rewarded. If you had not offered trust to Colombe, you would not have a true relationship with your sister. If you had not offered trust to Zamarad, she would not have thawed out your heart so that you could love. Looking at her the signs are there, she looks much like Colombe does and you have been too blind to see before now. You have worked with her, challenged her time and again, laughed with her, fought alongside her for what you both believe in, and she has not yet betrayed you over a century and a half. You know that she has questioned you about Colombe and expressed an interest in seeing justice, true justice done, and she would not imprison an innocent person, as Sis is innocent of much she is wrongfully accused of.

You trusted Norimune and admitted that you had trust issues to her, shouldn't you try to act to fix them just like you took the plunge to have a tentative understanding with your Father?

You have seen that desperate look deep within Wei Ying's eyes once before in your life.

In the cabin of a riverboat shining from a face full of longing for any scrap of information about a parent Colombe never knew.

In Sis's eyes looking into yours as you told her about Norimune. About our father who you were blessed to know from Mother's stories and tales... and she never did for over two centuries.

With that Delilah nodded and cleared her throat.

"I am. I am Muramasa-no-Norimune's youngest daughter with Jezabel de Breuil in 1855. Colombe d'Aubigny du Chasteler is Norimune's oldest daughter with Julie d'Aubigny in 1707. That we know of, Father was..." Delilah trailed off briefly and then laughed, "Jacklyn takes after our father in her roving eye and appetite for romantic conquests. Frankly, I would not be surprised if more half-siblings are running around."

Ying slowly turned her head to look at Jackie. "Then Jackie here?"

"Is my older half-sister born of Sally Gray in 1723 when Father was a pirate in the Caribbean. Jackie seems to be trying to outdo Father for her exploits in that field." Delilah smirked slightly. "If you want, I can cast a spell on our true bodies to show the blood relationship."

Ying froze and her eyes tracked to Jackie's sword belt before turning to look at Delilah. "True bodies... then that revolver you carry everywhere...."

Delilah nodded and unholstered her revolver, placing it on the coffee table, "Is my true self. Jackie has her cutlass and Sis is a rapier."

Ying drew her dao in turn and waved a hand to dispel the illusions that normally concealed it. "And mine is my Niúwěidāo blade." She placed the Chinese sword next to Delilah's revolver. "How did we never notice the resemblance before... Aunt Delilah?"

The revolver shrugged as she cast a spell and the weapons began to glow a soft pink. "We were too good at hiding ourselves from each other. I had my reasons, you had yours, and to be fair you got on my nerves all the damned time."

Ying nodded as Jackie walked over and placed her cutlass next to the others. "Too much alike, you smug gwailou. In some ways, you were the most annoying fraternal twin that I never had at Ilvermorny, but I wasn't going to tell you that at the time."

Delilah laughed. "My thoughts exactly you unreadable bitch. I could never get a feel for you or predict your actions, and it drove me nuts from Selection in our Houses until graduation. Still does sometimes."

Ying wiped tears from her cheeks. "You'll help me find Colombe, right?"

Delilah nodded, "Once we get cleaned up, I'll take you to her. I wouldn't miss the introduction for the world. Especially if we can spring it on Sis by surprise."

Jackie got an evil smirk and nodded enthusiastically.

Fudo glared at Deliah. "What about what Colombe did to Toku-chan!"

Delilah looked at Fudo as the Masamune stormed up to face her. "Didn't Honjo give you the letter? Toku wrote it to explain the mess Sis' crazy luck dragged them into."

"WHAT LETTER?!?" Fudo leaned in to stare at Delilah.

Jackie coughed ostentatiously and waved the scroll, "Maybe this letter?"

Fudo grabbed it from Jackie frantically. Fudo's shoulders slumped as she saw the seal and she choked back tears. "Toku-chan..." she whispered as she broke it open and began to read.

Delilah relaxed as the tension in the room lowered, "If you want, I can get Toku on the phone, you DID pick up my phone, right?"

Ying pulled out the phone and handed it to Delilah.

---------------------------

Delilah punched in a number and then let it ring.

"Guten Tag, Castle Moulbaix." A young German voice came over the phone's speaker.

"Ehren, it's Del. Can you please get Toku to the phone? It is a matter of some importance." Delilah glanced at Fudo as the Masamune stood next to her.

"Aber natürlich, Tante Del. Sofort!" Ehren snapped out.

Delilah set the phone back to normal function and handed it to Fudo. She then walked to Ying and placed a hand on her shoulder.

Ying spoke quietly as they walked to the other side of the room and sat in a pair of chairs. "I agree, she needs privacy for this."

------------------------------------

"Moshi moshi?" A quiet, gentle voice with steel hidden deep inside the warm velvet of the Masamune of the Warrior's Virtues' calm demeanor.

"T...Toku-chan?" Steel under strain, filled with tears of relief and happiness that the Blade of Fudo My'oo 's fears and worries are ill founded. That despite all that has happened in her life, she has not failed, that she is not flawed. That she is a worthy Masamune.

"Hai, Fudo-oneesama. It is good to hear from you too." A soothing balm on a tormented soul with each gentle syllable as two sisters speak once more.

------------------------------------

Ying looked at Delilah as they sat on the balcony looking out over a small backyard garden with a pair of blossoming cherry trees. "So... Ehren?"

Delilah shrugged. "You have two half sisters, Claire and Ehren. Both the spirits of items that Sis adopted rather than any more physical relationships like mine. Sis got around almost as much as Norimune, so I wouldn't be surprised if... No. No, that's not fair to Colombe. She's so wrapped up in family that she would have done the right thing with any children she had. I wonder what happened with you?"

Ying blushed, "Mother had to flee China with Father's help because she was accused of dark magic. Huli Jing fox spirits are disliked in the Middle Kingdom thanks to what Daji did three thousand years ago. According to Mother, she conceived me the last night before we took ship to America. So when Mother was aware, Father was an ocean away, and then she hid herself with a marriage and moved to Canada."

Delilah nodded slowly, "And by the time Sis would have thought about looking for you, the trail was cold. She was in China until at least 1860; she has a collection of artwork she picked up then in her castle. And I know that in 1864 she traveled to Japan to find Father."

Ying leaned forward, "So what DID happen then? I have been tracking her for decades but 1855-1895 is a total gap, and then again until World War I."

Delilah laughed, "What didn't happen? You should be aware that Norimune has an enchantment on her that causes her luck to be very good or very bad, and Sis inherited it. I did not, thank God. Regardless, she was obsessed with tracking down Norimune to come to terms with her birth and heritage. I'm sure that you can relate to that drive."

Ying nodded, her eyes intent on her aunt.

"So she showed up in Japan in 1864 and made a nuisance of herself. Eventually she ran into Toku, Fudo's sister Masamune-no-Tokunotakai. They had a duel which Colombe won, and then apparently Toku's patron the kami Hachiman manifested and beat Colombe into the dirt 'because the time was not right'. Considering later events such as me and Jackie not meeting her until 1927 and then the nasty shit that happened to Aunt Kyoshu and Father in World War II, I can see why she got the oath extracted from her to not come here until the Abyssal War as things turned out." Delilah spoke, her eyes thoughtful.

Ying's eyes narrowed, "So the reason MACUSA dropped the case against her in 1927 was your doing then?"

"Yes. But back to Colombe. After Japan she sailed back to Belgium, that's where she has a home and her adopted family lives, a 'du Chasteler' is what she thinks of herself. Unfortunately the last member of her adopted family was a real monster unknown to her at the time. He had murdered his parents magically, Colombe swears, and nearly did her in while trying to get her killed, finally reaching its climax in the Congo in 1895. She somehow walked out of Africa back to Belgium and ran him through in 1899. Never did get the details, she's very reticent about that period of her life."

Ying muttered to herself, "That explains the pattern of her activity changing then. She was changing her motivations."

Delilah nodded, "Yes. In brief, this is when she got involved with Lyra Potter, fascinating woman, who managed to somehow pull Sis's head out of her ass. This is where I enter the picture. Sis served in World War I for the British as a 'adopted Potter' and I met her in '27. Then we corresponded until we got thrown together during World War II and fought Grindlewald in Europe. I was always wondering what you were doing since I figured you would show up with the Canadian contingent in Europe."

Ying sighed, "I was sent to Hong Kong as part of a reinforcement for that garrison in the summer of 1941 and got stuck there when Japan overran it on Christmas."

Delilah winced, "Ouch, that could not have been fun. Jackie was in the Pacific as a sub skipper for MACUSA. Anyway, after World War II and Lyra's death in 1949, Sis kind of drifted until Claire, the spirit of her piano manifested in 1990 and then Ehren early last year. Ehren is a dagger that she picked up in World War II. We finally tracked down Father last September and met a bunch of aunts that I never really knew existed then."

Ying smiled, "Something to look forward to." She ran back through the story. "Wait. Lyra Potter, the erotica writer Lyra Potter?"

Delilah smiled smugly, "The one and only. Ask Sis about her Lady Chastity books and take a photo of her face."

"Hey, I like Lady Chastity!" Ying glared at Delilah.

Delilah smugged harder.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Butterknife Mountie Prepares Her Case

Fudo's House, Adachi Ward, Tokyo
Spoiler: A Chat Between Old Rivals

Wei Ying and Delilah de Breuil sat on the balcony overlooking the darkened garden. Finally the revolver spirit looked at her niece. "So, now what?"

Ying frowned thoughtfully. "Good question, Del. I suppose it is cards on the table time. I planned once I tracked down Colombe to bring her in, I have enough evidence and political favors to get her a honest hearing - I think - with the ICW which should prove that she is not the black-hearted villain and serial Statute-Breaker that they claim that she is."

Delilah sighed, "Sis has done a lot, mostly for the right reasons but yes. Given the choice between closing her eyes to an injustice or even being subtle about how to correct matters, Sis doesn't hesitate but to do what she knows is right, and damn the consequences. She has a very medieval mindset in that regard, because she is a noble and expected to do the right thing no matter what, accountable only to her King and her God. Don't tell her that I told you this, but I blame her adopted father for that."

Ying hummed thoughtfully, "Of course, I'll have to prepare the board in advance, and the more jurisdictions agree to dismiss or plea down the better. Make it less likely they will try to hang something on her because of all that she is accused of. I had penciled you in to approach when the time was right to get MACUSA to drop Louisville in 1927."

Delilah rubbed her chin, "That can be arranged, I'll have to make some phone calls, but yes, great minds think alike. According to Sis, the Klan started that anyway and they are not well liked any more, play up that one of the dead was a Scourer and... yes. That works."

Ying sighed. "China and Iran are both lost causes. Iran just hates us westerners regardless, but the ICW knows that. The Chinese because Mother was a nonhuman and the Chinese Ministry of Magic is too heavily influenced by Taoist and Confucianist thought from back when they wrote Journey to the West. All us yaojing are ravening beasts hungry for the essence of young men even if that has not been true for centuries. Plus Father was one of the Western Devils plundering the Middle Kingdom in the bad old days of the 1800s."

Delilah snorted dismissively, "Was that ever the case with the yaojing?"

Ying shrugged, "Maybe a millennia or two ago... perhaps. Su Daji existed back then definitely and was a real nasty piece of work that smeared the rest of us huli jing by association according to Mother. Rumor that Mother heard from her family as a young cub was that Daji had reasons for doing what she did, though, it wasn't just for evil's sake. Which reminds me, what in the name of the Blue Dragon of the East was Colombe doing breaking out those jorogumo? According to my briefing packet, and what I was told those things make a huli jing look benign."

Delilah grimaced, "Sis's luck at work. She planned to climb Mount Fuji with Toku, which is a traditional thing in Japan. On the way down, they took a magical path that goes through Aokigahara forest where they ran into three Aurors torturing some escapees who fled to escape the conditions in the reserve there. Conditions are apparently very bad in the Reserves."

Ying puckered her lips, "That matches both with the office rumor I picked up about one of them and Father's known modus operandi. So she killed two and drove off the third in her intervention."

"In self-defense, yes. Then she used a portkey I had given her to take everyone back to Moulbaix and is keeping them at her castle as house guests for now while things sort themselves out. I'm here in Japan in part because I'm trying to prevent Sis from coming back to launch a mass breakout to save people. " Delilah sighed, "And Sis only killed one, the one who got split in half was Tokunotakai's doing after hitting Colombe with a Cruciatus, but of course everyone assumes Colombe did it. Also whatever they told you about jorogumo is not the whole truth. The ones that are still around are in control of their instincts and have learned to survive without predating humans." Delilah looked grim. "I interrogated the ones that she saved, and if they are representative, which they seem to be, what is happening is a grave injustice."

Ying shook her head, "Great. What a mess. Do you have any idea of how to manage this kerfluffle?"

Delilah grinned smugly, "In fact, I do. While I'm officially here on vacation, which is the truth for once, everyone thinks that I'm here as an officially unofficial MACUSA rep since the de Breuils have so much pull in certain areas in New York. So I have had a few quiet dinners with certain people in the Civil Service and the Diet who have been sounding me out about MACUSA's view on certain domestic issues Japan is facing with the Statute of Secrecy failing and their domestic politics becoming a mess as the Kyoto splinter faction looks to be taking over from Tokyo. If you don't mind representing the RCMMP, who do have that seat on the ICW held by an Auror that you trained...."

Ying smiled and finished, "We can play up that Ottawa sent me here for more than just the official police coordination on the case and my remit involves poking around a bit instead of just being the subject expert on Colombe. Provide backup for Auror Colonel de Breuil of MACUSA to poke. I'll backstop your ploy, Del."

Delilah smugged and fist bumped Ying, "That's the girl I knew who successfully schemed to take Henry Adams to the Yule Ball in Fifth Year from under my nose."

Ying laughed after fist bumping her aunt, "You lucked out, he got fresh with his hands after drinking illicit Fire-whisky after the ball and I had to joint lock him to persuade him that I was not interested in losing my virginity to him. He was a hell of a Seeker for Wampus Cat and looked good in that lemon-yellow robe, though."

"True, true. You know that I cried in my pillow when you stole the march on me with him?" Delilah mused.

"Never would have guessed. That does explain why you threw your first shot on goal right at my face the day after he agreed publicly to go out with the "Great Wall of Horned Serpent" though. Lucky that it wasn't a Bludger because I was not expecting you to bean me with it." Ying reminisced.

"Couldn't find an inert Bludger on short notice. Believe me, I looked. I wasn't quite good enough with Transfiguration back then to fill the Quaffle with lead either." Delilah admitted sheepishly.

"Ow. Glad that you didn't." Ying winced.

"I admit the look on your face when I bounced the Quaffle off it helped my day a bit. That and managing to score enough against you so we edged out the win." Delilah grinned at Ying.

"I always enjoyed playing Keeper against you, Del. You were one hell of a finisher. Until now I always wondered why you didn't go pro as a Chaser. Now I know, same as me, you didn't want to draw too much attention considering your heritage." Ying steepled her fingers.

"Exactly. I have a knack for ballistics, comes of being a revolver I suppose. Predicting movement and placing force on target is what I do. But I had the worst time trying to predict you to get shots past your defense as Keeper." Delilah leaned forward. "Your heritage then?"

Ying grinned and concentrated, her hair shifting to dark black and shrinking and her face assuming an American Indian cast. "Actually, yes. Huli jing are shapeshifters and skilled at illusion. I was younger then, and not as skilled, of course, but I was good enough to make my hands and arms appear slightly off from where they actually were. Add in my training in my mother's martial arts style boosting my speed and reflexes, and there you have it. Although when I did not fool you, trying to stop your shots was near impossible."

Delilah nodded. "Neat trick, and I'd like to learn whatever you can teach me."

Ying's features flowed back to normal. "I can teach some, but some of it is inborn, and I don't like to advertise. People tend to get twitchy around shape shifters because if you abuse it," her face darkened, "it can be a nightmare scenario for police to stop."

Delilah made a sound of agreement, "I can see that, Polyjuice and illusions are bad enough from a security standpoint. And I have gotten into a few places that I should not by getting my true body inside and then manifesting."

"Right, but we are woolgathering here. So, dinner with who?" Ying stretched.

"Naomi Miyata is next on my social circuit, I'll be seeing her day after tomorrow. I have a Vanishing Cabinet chain between Japan and Belgium so once we travel to see Sis, we can come back here and lay the groundwork to poke into the Reserves. With luck, we can get the Diet to drop charges and make changes."

"True. That leaves France as the big headache, and I'm waiting for information a friend of mine is digging up there to see if they can drop Metz in 1789. That is a tough sell though." Ying sighed heavily, "The problem is that it was a massive riot and egg on their faces."

"I can ask around, maybe? Sis did serve in World War I on the Western Front, I believe, and was part of the Resistance in World War II. So she has come to their defense." Delilah shook her head. "Although they are more of mess than is normal, according to my sources."

 

[darthcourt10]

RCNAnon

Weasley's Warship Workshop 6
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Jean-Bart sighed as she dried her hair from the bath, dressed in nothing more than a towel for the moment. She'd had another day of doing noting much at all aside from enjoying what she could of the Mediterranean weather that Toulon enjoyed most of the year. Many people would consider that a blessing, day after day of nothing but warm sun, cool breeze and a town that was largely free of the idea of war.

Oh there were still convoys going back and forth between ports and there were reminders on advertisements but the Mediterranean was the most secure of all the seas. With the entirety of the Italian, Greek and Turkish navies contained inside, and parts of the French, Spanish and even the Royal Navy patrolling the waters, things were as much "normal" as they could be next to any large body of water these days.

Jean-Bart hated it. She hated it even more now that she knew there was hope on the horizon, hope that she would get into the war before another decade was out. A taste of something sweet was on the edge of her tongue and she could not wait to get her hands on it properly. She only had to wait for Ron to finish with his planning. Which of course came after he dealt with the issues of the KGV class and Duke of York specifically.

She couldn't exactly blame the lad, much as she might want to on her dark days. He'd known Duke for much longer than he had her and there was clearly affection between them. Not to mention that what he was trying on Duke was simply to improve her rate of fire and gun readiness. It wasn't as if she needed a refit.

Grumbling slightly to herself once more Jean-Bart started slightly as her phone began to ring. Only a few people had the number and despite the fact that she'd had a spate of strange telemarketer numbers call her recently, she never really expected a call. Moving over to check it she saw the familiar name and number on the screen and picked it up.

"Hello sister, what can I do for you today?" Richelieu might be a pervert of the highest order but she was still her sister and a relatively good one at that. Jean-Bart could, mostly, forgive her foibles given all the love and support she'd been given.

"Mon-Petit!" Came Richelieu's sing song voice, something which often caused Jean-Bart to shiver. "You have been very naughty recently!~"

"I have no idea what you're talking about sister. Truly." Jean-Bart laid back on her bed, wondering what crazy idea that Richelieu had come up with this time.

"Non? Not a single one?" Richelieu's tone of voice did not change one bit and Jean-Bart started to dread whatever teasing that she might have in mind today.

"No sister, I do not. I have spent the past week trying not to go crazy while sunshine beats down on me."

"Mon-Petit how dreadful of you! Lazing around in the sun while your suitor tries vainly to get in contact! Oh the heartbreak he must be feeling!~"

"I don't have a suitor sister mine, whatever you may think. If there's one calling himself that he can take a walk off the plank." Jean-Bart snarked back at her sister slightly, the relationship issue always one that could get under her skin at least a little bit.

"Non?" Richelieu's tone took a turn for the even more teasing. "You do not? So I should tell Monsieur Weasley that you are not interested in his affections?"

Jean-Bart sat up suddenly, her face flushing as outrage burst through her.

"Richelieu!" She nearly shrieked through the phone as her hand moved to catch her suddenly loose towel. "He's thirteen! He is not my suitor!"

"Non?" Jean-Bart could practically hear her sister smirking at this point. "But he has been calling and calling you seeking to set up a meeting! For a week he said! I told him that you were probably playing hard to get and that he might have to come down personally and be forceful with you again. He has the most lovely blush, I could hear him smoking through the phone, like you are now!"

Jean-Bart sputtered as Richelieu twisted what she'd been told about Jean-Bart's visit to the manor into not merely a pretzel but something that would have made an abstract artist quite proud.

"That is not what happened sister! Not at all!" Jean-Bart finally managed to say, the memory of Ron skillfully managing to get her a full engineering survey by that Anglo-Germanic monster of a dry dock not helping her state of mind.

"Oh? I could have sworn you told me that he maneuvered you into position personally so he could get a full set of your measurements."

"He is my doctor not a lecher like you make it sound!" Jean-Bart croaked out. "He had nothing to do with it personally and he certainly didn't see anything like that!"

"Oh but the thought of him slaving away over them, working so hard that he passes out each night practically on top of you from exhaustion just so you can sail properly again is so romantique, non?"

Jean-Bart couldn't do anything but groan as she slapped her face to her hand. She always lost to Richelieu when her sister got a full head of steam going on this time wasn't any different. After a moment of silence she finally sighed and forced herself to speak again.

"Leaving aside the issue of you being completely and utterly off base with your representation of what happened, why are you bringing this up now sister?"

"Oh! Well Monsieur Weasley is on the other line right now. He called Admiral Chirac directly since you would not pick up your phone." Richelieu's tone said that butter wouldn't have melted in her mouth but Jean-Bart felt herself flush again.

"Why didn't you start with that?" She halfheartedly growled, adjusting her towel again as if anybody could see her.

"Oh Mon-petit, I couldn't just transfer him over. As your sister I must make sure you are in the right mood for the call first! Now hold on just one second while I transfer him over. After I will make sure to pick out just the right nurse outfit for your next visit.~"

"Richelieu!" Jean-Bart started, only to have the phone click over to the other line. "Don't you dare!"

There was silence on the other line for a few seconds before she heard a familiar if somewhat more timid male voice.

"Uhm, hello? Jean-Bart?" Ron asked.

Jean-Bart flushed again and swore to get back at her sister for this. Of course she'd gotten her riled up just to embarrass herself in front of Ron.

"Oui Ron it is me." She slipped slightly into her native tongue with the boy, letting out a sigh. "I apologize for the outburst my sister she..."

Jean-Bart trailed off slightly as Ron gave a nervous giggle.

"Ah, yeah. She's… quite something."

"You do not know the half of it." Jean-Bart muttered, wishing for a moment of calm that she could not get quite yet.

"Not like that but my brother's are pretty embarrassing when the mood strikes them." Ron's tone made it sound like he truly did understand and put Jean-Bart somewhat more at ease.

"Yes. Family can be like that." Jean-Bart let out another sigh, feeling more calm than she had been. "You wanted to speak with me about something?"

"Oh, yeah." She could hear Ron regaining his balance on the other end of the line. "It's about your repairs… I have some ideas that I wanted to show to you. I could tell you some over the phone but I think it would be easier to show you some diagrams I've drawn up."

Despite already being flustered by her sister, Jean-Bart could feel her boiler pressure spike slightly as the idea of someone drawing parts of her like she knew Ron could ran through her mind.

"You've drawn up diagrams?" She asked, making her voice remain calm.

"Yeah. I've got ideas for your main guns, your engines and your secondaries." Ron seemed to not see anything wrong with what he was saying, so Jean-Bart kept a lid on her own emotions. They were strangely off balance even for Richelieu teasing her.

"That's quite the number of ideas." She said. "Have you discussed them with anybody?"

"Yeah. Summer and Angie helped me come up with the. Summer thinks she can make the parts and Angie said she could install them if we all work together." There was a pause before Ron continued. "Of course that's if you want to even see them of course. We can just go with a normal rebuild if you want."

Jean-Bart considered Ron's statement for a moment. It was true that she wanted to get back into the fight as soon as possible. Yet, Ron's offer was tempting. If she could get back into the fight even better than she would normally be…

"I can at least meet you to see them." Jean-Bart said in return, running her hand through her hair. "When are you available?"

"My professors said I could leave next weekend if it was for business." Ron seemed slightly abashed at that for some reason. "So sometime next Saturday or Sunday."

Jean-Bart didn't have anything planned most of the time, much less on weekends unless there was a convoy for her to go with. Which were unfortunately rare, given the cost ratio she produced.

"Next Saturday is fine. Can you make it to the arsenal de Toulon by noon?"

"Yeah. I can make it there just fine if I leave on time. Should I meet you at the main gate?"

"Oui that is fine. I will take you to a place we can have lunch and look over your work. Is that fine?"

"That sounds good to me." Jean-Bart could practically hear Ron nodding.

"Good." Jean-Bart paused for another moment as her crew marked down something in her log that was something other than "maintenance" or "free time". "Is there anything else?"

"Uhm… nope, I can't think of anything. I'll look forward to seeing you on Saturday then." Ron's voice actually seemed happy to say that, causing Jean-Bart to crook the corner of her mouth slightly.

"Oui I will do the same. Until then Ron."

"Until then." With that the phone hung up with a click and Jean-Bart pulled her cellphone away from her ear to lay back onto her bed. The notation in her log loomed in her mind despite it simply being lunch with a thirteen year old boy. It was another step on her road to recovery and a chance to get out and do something at the same time.

Smiling a bit, she frowned as she suddenly realized that she'd forgotten to ask Ron for his phone number or even if he had one. The strange spate of calls she'd thought were telemarketer's suddenly made sense, or rather fit together with what Richelieu said. Why would he not have the same number each time though?

Checking her call log she realized there were several repeats, just that they were spaced out. All from Britain of course but there was no way to know which was the "correct" one. She'd also be damned if she was going to ask Richelieu for help on that after the teasing she'd just gotten.

She'd just have to wait till Saturday and ask Ron personally.

Unknowingly smiling slightly to herself, Jean-Bart moved to go get dressed, ready to perhaps face the rest of the day and some of her fellow Marine-Nationale members on better terms.
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
AN: Woo first story post in the new thread. Mostly teasing and setup for next time but I thought this would be a good look at Jean-Bart and Richelieu together

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Butterknife Mountie Always Gets Her Person

The Kitsune's Den, Magical Tokyo
Spoiler: Changing Fortunes

Wei Ying opened her eyes after casting the I Ching and blinked at the results.

Matters were...unsettled.

Of her six casts in her daily divination, five of them had either been Changing Yang with three heads, or Changing Yin with three tails.

And the result was perfectly symmetrical, Changing Yin, Changing Yang, Changing Yin, Unchanging Yang, Changing Yin, Changing Yang.

Li above K'an. The Yellow of Fire above the Scarlet of Water. The Sixty-Fourth Hexagram. Wei Chi, the end is in sight.

She quoted from the Book of Changes contemplatively.

"Fire ascends above the Water:
The Superior Person examines the nature of things and keeps each in its proper place.

Too anxious the young fox gets his tail wet, just as he completes his crossing.
To attain success, be like the man and not like the fox."

Slowly her finger touched each line bottom to top as she mused. "Humiliation changes to Good Fortune, followed by a reminder to cross the river before leaving the boat. Then in the next Trigram, Perseverance brings success, then Good Fortune once again and finally a reminder to be a good winner."

She continued as she packed away her divination tools. "Obviously the river to be crossed is when I travel with Aunt Jacklyn and Aunt Delilah to Belgium to meet Colombe. That is the ending of a long period in my life, and once I step from the boat, I can never return as I was."

She wiped tears from her eyes and then continued as she looked over her packed suitcase. "But I must examine the nature of things and act with prudent wise judgement. While the journey of a thousand li (Chinese mile/500 meters) begins with a single step, the last step is no less critical than the first." With that, she looked at her outfit in the mirror and barked a laugh.
Spoiler: Ying's Dress


"The Scarlet of Water, with a Phoenix, such as represents the Empress and which I have as the core of my wand embroidered in the Gold of Fire. Truly an auspicious beginning to my last step on the journey." Ying shook her head as she headed out of the room and downstairs to the designated area for guests to Apport out.

------------------------------------

Castle Moulbaix, Belgium
Spoiler: A Dagger's Meditations

Ehren du Chasteler frowned minutely. Masamune-no-Tokunotakai was up to something and she suspected Aunt Delilah was behind it.

Del had called the castle yesterday asking to speak to Toku and when the Masamune blade appeared, she had promptly closed the study door behind Ehren after a moment of visible surprise. Ehren did not know Japanese very well, yet, but she was certain the person Toku spoke to was not Aunt Delilah's voice.

Judging by the tone of the conversation it was not bad, just... annoying. All that listening at the kitchen voice pipe downstairs and incomprehensible Japanese was what she got out of it.

With that in mind, she looked at the rest of the family and house-guests around the table.

Claire had her head in Wolkenkuckucksheim doing Claire things, humming a Strauss waltz between sips of her Kaffemelange (Coffee melange)
and bites of an eclair. Alles in ordnung.(Everything in order[Proper place])

Kasuyu was his normal unflappable self as he drank his own devil's brew black coffee from his Axe Men mug. Alles in ordnung.
Spoiler: Kasuyu's Coffee Mug

Past him the jorogumo 'family' were demolishing a rasher of bacon and eggs that Ehren as the traditional early riser and Kasuyu as the head chef cum butler had cooked up. Although cooking lessons under supervision were going well, Miho Fujii, the elder of the two came from a totally different culinary tradition and was still learning how to use modern appliances.

Ehren hid her reflexive scowl over the Ghettoisierung (ghettoisation)of the reserves behind her own mug of espresso until she could control her expression. She understood the value of the patience and planning that Aunt Delilah had requested. Erst denken, denn handeln, she reminded herself, first think then act. Even if the report of the Fujiis about the Reserves reminded her of the worst crimes of the SS in the East.

It was a very short step from locking creatures viewed 'subhuman' away from 'proper humans' to what had happened after....

The Transports. The Aktionen(Actions). The Einzatzgruppen(single action groups)..

Die Endlösung des Jüdischen Problems. (The final solution to the Jewish problem)

She could feel that bloodstain on her hands, on her soul.

She knew what unspeakable and unforgivable crimes had been done by those who she believed in utterly at one time. She knew how blind she had been then, how she would willingly have followed the orders of her superiors in the SS.

How much Father believed in their blood-soaked vision of a 'Greater Germany'.

How close to the Abyss that she herself had skirted shortly after her awakening last year.

That was why she stoically endured the nightmares in which she saw her own face among the guards of the charnel houses that had become names of horror throughout history.

And speaking of nightmares....

Ehren looked toward the head of the kitchen table. Last night she had trouble sleeping, for it seemed that a presence was watching her, measuring her. Not for the first time. She had pulled on her slippers and gone forth to allay her suspicions.

What she had found last night alarmed her. She had heard a muffled noise from Mother's room and peeked through the keyhole.

Inside, illuminated by the moon, Mother was asleep next to Tokunotakai. The Masamune blade's avatar was cuddled up to her, protectively, reassuringly, murmuring gently in her sleep like Ehren imagined that a mother would comfort her terrified children.

Mother was sweating and trembling like that small child, whimpering and crying incoherently. Her face was almost... afraid. Ehren thought that the small child description was quite apt the more she thought about her silent observation. Mother looked like nothing so much as a little girl terrified that the monster in her closet was going to devour her.

Ehren frowned minutely and glanced over at the clearly rumpled Colombe. Long experience with Mother suggested that unless something truly extraordinary happened, Mother would sooner die than reveal her night terrors to anyone. And while Tokunotakai had to have seen more, sleeping in the same bed with Mother assured that....

Ehren sighed and refilled her espresso cup.

She was just not sure what to think of Tokunotakai. Claire loved her, true, but Claire loved anyone who shared an interest in music, and while Claire's instincts toward people were good...

Toku certainly was a good person, so it seemed, and yet, Ehren could not help but remember how Hitler had deceived Germany. Deceived her.

With that Ehren poured some fresh milk into the espresso and stirred. Aunt Delilah's insights would be valuable, but Del was in Japan scouting and getting intelligence on the Reserves. So all she could do was wait and watch.

Perhaps ask Toku for a sparring session in the salle d'armes? Practice of her skills would never be wasted. But then if she breached the subject of Mother's nightmares after a nice spar, she would have to explain how she observed Mother... and Toku. And she did not know what about Toku's relationship to Mother was causing her to be so reticent. She did not think that it was primarily that they were both women, even though part of her did feel some hesitance toward an Asian girl sleeping with Mother. At least part of that was the lingering taint of Nazism and its teachings denouncing same-sex and mixed-race couples.

Ehren's lips twitched in a laugh that never passed them as she drained her second cup of Espresso Kaffee and a stray thought reached her mind.

Patience was a virtue, yes, but this virtue sucked royally.

As Ehren set her cup down and stood to begin washing the dishes, Toku coughed.

"Everyone, I got a call from Delilah. She and Jackie will be coming here soon with a few friends."

Ehren blinked. Colombe looked surprised, and shot a glance at the Masamune katana who was dressed down in a black T-shirt that Mother had picked out for her and a blue jean skirt.
Spoiler: Toku's T-Shirt

-------------------------------

The bang of an arrival in the Great Hall punctuated the statement.

Ehren walked to the entrance hall and looked through the door. Jackie was pointing out the paintings and marble staircase to a clearly awed young Japanese woman with dog ears and a tail. Delilah meanwhile was talking to two other Asian women. One in a red Chinese dress (Ehren had noticed them during late-night bargain hunts on internet shopping sites) with gold embroidery and dark blonde hair nodded as she idly rubbed her hand across a glowing gem in her sword hilt. The other woman, wearing a black pinstriped business suit and a burgundy tie with flowers embroidered on it, ran her hands through her short hair and looked around nervously.
Spoiler: Fudo's Tie

Colombe stepped out with Toku beside her. "Hello Del, Jackie, and who are your friends?"

The business suited girl's scowl vanished in an instant and she flash-stepped across the floor to hug a radiantly smiling Tokunotakai. "Imouto!"

Toku hugged her back. "Fudo-oneechan!"

Delilah winked at the Chinese girl and then gave a smug smirk. "Jackie's friend is Aomi, and I would like to introduce my classmate from Ilvermorny. Wei Ying, the oldest daughter of Mei Yüying..."

The color drained from Mother's face as the Chinese girl gracefully walked across the floor to her and hugged her gently. "I was born nine months to the day after you helped Mother escape Kowloon ahead of the Taipings and Tong Enforcers in 1854. Father."

Ehren's jaw dropped and she stared in naked shock at her new sister. Unmöglich! Unglaublich!(Impossible! Unbelievable!)

Colombe teared up. "I...I never knew. I'm sorry that I was not there for you. I'll do whatever I can to make it up to you. Anything at all." She returned the embrace fiercely, crushing her oldest daughter to her.

Ying's lips curled in a smug smile as Jackie and Delilah both pulled out cell phones. "I'll hold you to that. Just give me your word that you will hear what I have to say and my explanation before you do anything precipitate."

Colombe nodded. "Oui. Of course."

"Good." Ying's smile grew triumphantly smug, "In the name of the Queen, The High Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Magical Mounted Police, and the International Confederation of Wizards, I, Chief Superintendent and Auror Wei Ying of the RCMMP do arrest you, Colombe du Chasteler, for breaches of the Statute of Secrecy!"

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

Yokosuka was not the only place that the Sun shone on that day. Other places in Japan, too, had a nice day. And on an hidden island in the Ryukyu Island Chain, others were also enjoying the nice spring weather like so many others elsewhere in Japan.

Through his shirt, Haruto could feel the rough bark of the tree he was laying against as the sunlight through the canopy made dappled patterns on his body and his surroundings. But more than that, or the blanket beneath him, the sixteen year old could feel the warm, soft bodies of his girlfriends as their bodies touched and leaned against his. Hachimitsu, of course, had claimed pride of place in his lap. Not that Haruto had much issue with that, of course. Quite the opposite as the feel of one of his girlfriends sitting in his lap was enjoyable. Very enjoyable as a matter of fact.

Granted, Hachimitsu's sisters grumbled about her having grabbed the spot much to his amusement.

While he would never say it aloud though, it was times like this that Haruto was glad about how the three Kitsune sisters were not very big. That was something he knew better than to say unless he wanted to see them all flustered, though he found them rather cute when that happened anyways. What it did mean though was that them sitting in his lap was much more enjoyable than normal as it was much less likely to cut off his circulation, which meant that he was more than able to enjoy it as much as he wanted... which, as it turned out, was quite a bit. Feeling Hachimitsu shift in his lap, the teen opened his eyes as she sighed changing her position slightly, "Something wrong?"

However, the Kitsune shipgirl shook her head, "Not really." Looking over her shoulder, Hachimitsu gave him a smile and wiggled her hips a bit, which also got a blush from her boyfriend. Something that made Hachimitsu's smile become a knowing grin, "Just enjoying the day in the most comfy spot imaginable."

Crossing her arms, Haruhime gave a huff and a mock glare at her older sister, "Yes, which you keep hogging!"

A smirk on her face, her older sister flipped some of her golden hair and chuckled, "That was because you were too slow to claim it, Haruhime-Nee. But perhaps you shall have better luck next time."

Pouting, Haruhime turned to Haruto though her eyes twinkled which showed that she was in a playful mood. Something that he had to admit that he rather enjoyed seeing when it happened, which was often enough even if he was sometimes the target of her amusement, "Haruto-Kun, Hachimitsu-Nee is being mean again to us. Do something to make your girlfriend feel better."

Finger tapping on his chin, Haruto pretended to give it some thought while internally he was chuckling at what was going on. Not to mention the plan that was forming within his mind in regards to what he should do., "Hmm... making my girlfriend feel better? Wait!" Snapping his finger, he nodded, "I know what I can do to make you feel better."

Eyebrow raising, the red haired Kitsune gave him a look which had curiosity in it, "Oh? And what would that be-"

She was unable to finish though as Haruto chose that moment to claim her lips with his own. Followed, of course, by her deepening the kiss soon after they started. As they pulled back, he grinned, "Well? In a better mood?"

Licking her lips and slowly nodding, Haruhime grinned as her eyes became hooded, "Much better."

As he grinned, Haruto was about to say something when Mikage gently took his chin in her hand and turned him towards her. This was followed by her giving him a deep kiss for almost a minute and pulling back. Now grinning herself as she pulled back and her tail swished behind her, she nodded, "Yes, a much better mood."

Giggles were his only warning before first Ichika, and then, Mie stole a kiss. Bashfully smiling, the shy Inugami hummed some. Just the same, Mie did have a brightness to her eyes, "I think that puts me into a better mood as well."

It was then that a huff made Haruto turn to find that Hachimitsu had twisted around and was now scowling with her arms crossed as she straddled him, legs on either side of his before she shifted some. But the twinkle in her eye gave her away, even as she wagged a finger at him as if she was reprimanding him for his actions... or by her words, lack thereof, "What an awful boyfriend you are! Allowing them to steal kisses from you and not giving me any! That is being bad!"

Bemused, the teenager Healer placed his hands on his girlfriend's hips, "Oh? And what would you suggest?"

Only smirking, Hachimitsu leaned forward and gripped his upper arms, "That I get my turn. And, thankfully, I am in exactly the right place to get such a thing."

With a chuckle, she leaned until she was practically leaning against him before placing her arms around his neck and kissing him with her body pressed against his. Almost immediately, she deepened it before giving a squeak as she felt Haruto's hands move somewhere unexpected. Blushing, he pulled them away, "Um, sorry?"

Face red, Hachimitsu glared at him for a moment. Only a moment before grinning and grabbing his hands and putting them back with her tail swishing between them, "Just caught me by surprise." Her eyes softened a bit as she brushed some hair from his forehead as her golden eyes met his brown, "Trust me, I do not mind this at all, my love."

And with that, she went back to kissing him soon joined by the others taking their own turns, which Haruto did not mind in the slightest.

It was several minutes later that left a group of young adults somewhat breathless as they leaned against each other with flushed faces and happy smiles. Laying her head on top of Haruto's shoulder, one of her dog-like ears touching his, Mie smiled, "It's nice that we can do this."

Ichika laughed a bit from where she mirrored her twin sister on the opposite side of Haruto, "Tell me about it." Briefly stretching her arms, she chuckled as she leaned back into her boyfriend, "Still cannot get over the fact that we now got a boyfriend after so damn long of wanting." Slugging him in the arm lightly, the Inugami grinned, "Though worth the wait."

From where she was cuddled into his side forward of the dog Yokai, Haruhime snorted, "Worth the wait and more." Kissing Haruto on the cheek, she smiled a bit, "Definitely work the wait."

On the opposite side of her sister, Mikage poured some sake from a small bottle, one of their last ones, into a dish, "Hai, it was." Draining it, she sighed a bit, "Though I wish that we could do more than just go somewhere private in the reserve."

Reaching over, the Healer took her hand into his, "I promise, one day we'll be able to leave the reserve. And I'll take you all on the dates that you deserve. Trust me on that, anywhere you want."

Unable to help herself, Mie bit her lip some, "Um... maybe a theme park?" At their looks, she poked her fingers together, "They sound fun from what I have overheard."

Hand coming up, Haruto gently rubbed her head between her ears, which made the Inugami practically melt as one of his fingers and thumb stroked her ear, "A theme park? I don't see an issue with that. When we get all get the chance to leave, I'll take you to any one of them that you might want."

Shaking her head, Ichika snorted some, "Until then, I guess that we got places like this." As she looked around, she grimaced a touch, "Not that it is too impressive for flower viewing."

Just blinking at that, the lone human of the group looked around with a slight frown himself. The "Park" was not really that big when one got down to it. There were, at most, maybe six or seven sakura trees and a few more ume. Other than that, there was about a dozen or so normal trees. Here and there, piles of stone creating trays of sort where wildflowers would grow. And there was a few benches made from mostly driftwood. Basically large stones with wood on top. All in all, it was not too impressive when one got down to it.

Yet, Haruto knew, the islanders considered it a treasure and often one could find a few just sitting there and enjoying it.

it was also somewhere that he had taken the girls for 'Dates', or as close to such as they could get. Softly smiling, he reached back and took Ichika's hand in his and smiled, "It's okay, Ichika-Chan. This is good enough for now because I am spending it with all of you. And that makes it wonderful."

Almost immediately, all five shipgirls blushed heavily at that and Haruhime looked around as she held her hand in front of her face, "S-saying such things to us... So shameless."

In reply, all Haruto did though was shrug, "Around you? Sure." And he gave a small smirk, "Something that I am sure that none of you dislike at all. Or am I wrong?"

Needless to say, he did not get an answer in the negative. Deciding to get away from such, Hachimitsu picked up the bento that they packed and wiggled back. Internally, she smirked at the reaction that got from their boyfriend, 'Good, I'm happy that he enjoys that.' Ego boost aside, she opened the bento and looked inside. Within it, there were some Vienna sausage from some cans that Haruto had brought back on his trip. Said small sausages were cut in the shape of octopi. Besides them, there were some small onigiri and rolls of bread with peanut butter.

The sight of which made Hachimitsu lick her lips and want a taste. Her and her sisters as well as the Inugami twins had been unsure when Haruto brought the first jar with him. But he claimed that Kitsunes, Inugami, and other Yokai had come to love said food.

Upon their first taste, it needed to be said, the five shipgirls agreed with said Yokai.

Shaking her head, the blonde Kitsune pulled out some chopsticks and picked up one of the sausage octopi and twisted slightly as she held it out with a smile, "Here you go, Haruto-Kun. After all, you need to eat."

Haruto softly smiled at that and hummed as he bit into the offered food, "Thank you, Hachimitsu-Onee-Chan."

Blushing, the Kitsune only nodded before stealing a kiss from him as they enjoyed the day as by the end of the week, he would head back to the mainland for another supply run.

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

Quickly walking as the sky darkened, Haruto gave a nod towards various other members of the village. He had just been finishing up dinner when one of the Yokai had come and stated that there was an Auror at his clinic with a young, roughed up looking female Nekomata. With a goodbye, the teenaged Healer was off and rushing for his clinic as fast as he could. Mainly because of what he had been told which made him grimace, 'Looks like the Reserve likely has a new inhabitant... fucking dammit.'

Another part of his worry though was the fact that it was a young, female Yokai. While, yes, he had never come across issues thankfully, he also knew horror stories. Granted, such things were things even the Diet, in it's current state, could not turn a blind eye to. But after that one incident a couple of years back where the son of a prominent Magical Diet member was caught running a Yokai child sex ring... Haruto had nightmares about such things.

Upon arriving at the clinic though, he relaxed some at seeing the rough looking, middle aged man standing next to a quiet Nekomata who could not have been much more then maybe ten. Once he noticed Haruto, the Auror smiled some and patted the small Yokai, "Here you go, Chikako-Chan. Haruto-San is now here and will look after you."

Nodding at the Auror, Haruto had a thankful look on his face, "Sunada-San."

Sunada gave him a slight smile and a nod back, "Haruto-San. Sorry about calling you over here so late, but..."

Waving him off, the Healer shook his head, "It's fine. After all, this is what I am here for."

He did not show the relief on his face that it was Sunada that greeted him. The older man was practically one of the only good people. The man treated the Yokai as actual people, and was pretty much the only one outside of Haruto who was even liked, if only because he followed the rules and laws, though he was liked nowhere near as much as Haruto. But they did give him respect, and so Haruto knew that whatever else, the man was fair.

Once, he had asked him why he was at the Reserve and the guard had gone quiet and grimaced. About to apologized, Haruto had been waved off and he explained that him and a younger Auror had busted someone with connections. And that people elsewhere had reacted badly to the fact that they did not show leniency due to that and tried to get rid of them. Sunada had a few connections thankfully, which meant for him being sent to guard a Reserve, while the other Auror was accused of being a Hanyou and tossed out, though he was glad that said younger Auror had become a private investigator.

Granted, Sunada was certain that it was only until he hit the minimum retirement age before they would toss him out.

Still, Haruto was thankful that he was a guard there. If only because Sunada made sure to always be on duty when he came back with supplies which he looked through. And the Auror's reputation for honesty and integrity was such that no one would challenge him. Thus, none of the Healer's supplies were ever messed with.

In the current time though, the sixteen year old had already gone into what those that knew him called 'Healer Mode' and had walked over to the Nekomata who looked at him with tired, and somewhat suspicious eyes. Scanning her, he glanced towards Sunada, "What happened?"

Just shaking his head, the Auror pulled a stick of pocky and stuck it in his mouth. He may have had years on Haruto, but he knew better than to try and smoke in the younger man's clinic. Not after what he had done the last time... Shaking that off with a shiver, Sunada sighed, "One of the younger guys caught her. We've been getting reports that there have been homeless Yokai hanging around the various shipgirl bases. Damn baka decided to start looking around them despite being told that they were no go areas. Probably thinking that if he caught one, he would get a boost?"

Eyebrow raised, Haruto gave the Auror an unamused look, "And did he?"

A booming laugh came Sunada, "No, he got his ass chewed up and spat out. Only thing that saved him was that he caught Chikako-Chan here. Especially as the No-Maj Military Police were running at him when he apparated with her after being alerted by the noise." With a shrug, he shook his head, "Anyways, Chikako-Chan here got a bit roughed up besides everything from living on the street for a number of years."

Frowning, he looked the young Yokai in the eyes, "Chikako-San? How long have you been living on the streets for?"

Chikako only slowly blinked before shrugging, "Don't know, a long time. Had a nice cozy place at the base."

When he glanced at Sunada, Haruto got a shrug, "She lived in one of the old tunnels that ran under the base. One of the guys took a quick look via Shikigami and found that it ran nearly all the way to the Summoning Pool thing with a small room about fifty feet outside the building." Tilting his head towards Chikako, he frowned, "They caught her dumpster diving at a resturant right outside the base."

If anything, that made the Healer frown before he glanced at Chikako and lifted up her shirt enough to see her ribs. All of which he could easily see and made him grimace, 'Definitely going to need to treat her for malnutrition and perhaps starvation... as well as any parasites that she might have.' Pulling out some parchment, Haruto went to work and quickly wrote down his observations before he really began to scan her. On the parchment, notes began to appear from what the spells were picking up. And once they were done, he looked them over, "Hmm..."

Finishing off his pocky, Sunada handed one to the Nekomata after he took another one for himself. The little Yokai began to munch on the treat as the Auror turned to the Healer, "So, what's the verdict Doc?"

Haruto frowned a bit as he placed the parchment down, "She's in decent enough health, I suppose. Has a few issues though such as a cut that is infected on her leg, malnutrition, and it looks like she might have lice and maybe some tapeworms... or I hope that they're tapeworms." Tapping his chin, he walked over to the cabinet and pulled out some supplies and placed them to the side before he also brought out a stethoscope as well, "Got to check a few things else out."

Eyebrow raised at what the Healer had, the older man frowned, "By the way, why do you use No-Maj stuff like that? Don't the scanning spells work just as well?"

Glancing at him, Haruto used his magic to warm the metal of the stethoscope, "They do, but I prefer to get as many ways of looking at something as possible. You never know if you'll miss something... besides, I took a class on this sort of thing and also have it enchanted." Sliding it up the Nekomata's shirt and placing it against her chest, he blinked with his eyes widening a fraction. Something that Sunada caught and narrowed his own eyes at. A moment later though, Haruto's expression was back to normal, "Hmm... breathe in deep... now let it out. Breathe in deep... and let it out."

With his head tilted to the side, the Healer continued it before going to the back. Unknown to him, Sunada was watching him closely, 'I wonder what caught his interest...'

But, Haruto did not say a thing about what he had caught and instead walked over to the potions and gave her some vials, "Here, take these for right now and they'll help with the malnutrition and the worms. I'll get to work on the infected cut before giving you some antibiotics."

It did not take long for him to finish it up though which made Sunada look at him, "So?"

Just turning to him for a moment, Haruto went back to his work, "Well, once we get the immediate problems solved like the worms as well as the infection she has? And the lice as well, she'll be in good health. I'm going to keep her under observation though all the same until I am sure that no other problems from her life on the streets pops up."

Only nodding and stretching as his back popped, the Auror sighed a bit, "Well, if that's all, I need to get back to the HQ. Just wanted to make sure that she was going to be alright..." Looking at Haruto, Sunada hummed, "You sure that you got enough room?"

Lightly blushing at the small hint, the teen nodded, "I do, there's still plenty of room after all and she'll be safe until she settles in." Sending off a Shikigami, he gently grasped the Yokai's hand, "Now, let's go and get you all cleaned up and in some new clothes..."

As they walked off, Sunada stood there with a lit cigarette between his lips now that they were outside the clinic. Tip glowing in the darkening evening, he had his hands in the pockets of his robes as he watched the two disappear among the winding streets of the village. Within his mind, the Auror worked away at the puzzle that was the young Healer. Oh, he trusted him with the youngster he just handed over. Heck, out of the many Healers, Reserve and not, Haruto was right up there in the trust department. The kid would not do anything to harm the young Neko Yokai.

Quite the opposite most likely.

No, there was other aspects regarding to him that caused the old Auror to become interested. And not his current relationships with a number of female Yokai. Oh, Haruto and them were discreet, which was far more than Sunada could say for many others. There was also the fact that they all knew about each other and lived under the same roof. Heck, he had been wondering when they would get the nerve up to confess to one another when one day, it just happened he noticed. As far as the relationship was concerned, Sunada internally shrugged as it was none of his business. And it was not like any of the other guards noticed it with him only doing so because of his decades as an investigator.

But... there were other things that caught his interest about the group. Things that made him suspicious. He did not suspect Haruto of being involved with the Smugglers, the Kid knew better and understood that as long as he did not know, he could not tell. Yet there were a few items regarding him and the girls that he was with that niggled at him and slowly began to create a picture.

If what he suspected was true...

Chuckling, Sunada turned and began to walk towards the Apparation point that would allow for him to get to the guard facility for the island, "Well, even if I'm right, no laws are being broken. So no need to report on it..."

And with that, he vanished out of sight of the clinic.

Reaching the small, public bathhouse, Haruto waved at Mie who was waiting, "Mie-Chan."

The Inugami smiled and bowed slightly, "Haruto-Kun." Turning, she went to greet the small Yokai holding her boyfriend's hand, "And hello..." Her voice trailed off and she shot a wide eyed look at Haruto, "Haruto-Kun..."

Gently patting the Neko's head, the Healer gave a slight nod, "So I'm right? She's a shipgirl?'

Eyes widening, Chikako boggled at first Haruto and then Mie, "I-I'm what...?"

Looking at her, Mie crouched down and placed a hand on her shoulder, "A shipgirl, like... me. I can see your hull around you nearly solid." Furrowing her eyebrows, she gave her boyfriend a look, "How did you know?"

Hands in his pockets, Haruto glanced around, "I used an enchanted stethoscope and was listening to her heartbeat when I picked up another sound. Had to adjust the magical settings to isolate it." Looking at the Yokai, he smiled a bit, "Heard the sound of boilers, just barely there. Pretty sure that means that she is extremely close to awakening."

Slowly, the Inugami shipgirl nodded, "Very, especially as I can pick out a lot of detail on her hull."

Blinking rapidly, Chikako looked herself over before looking up at the other Natural Born, "I-I'm really a shipgirl?" At the nod, she tilted her head some, "Um, which one?"

Thoughtful, Mie got up and walked around her before slowly nodding, "I think that you are a Masamune Class Repair Ship, named after the Swordmaking School not the Smith. There was not really a naming convention on the No-Maj side yet for us to follow for Repair Ships." Rubbing her chin, she gave a small nod, "Hai, I think that's right."

Interested, Haruto glanced at her and at the awed Nekomata, "Hmm... So what can you tell me about them?"

Shaking her head, his girlfriend shrugged, "Um, not too much, Haruto-Kun. They were some of the first ships the Kamo Ministry had built with three of them built. And they were based off some Crane Ship that the No-Maj navy was using to take Battleship turrets from those being scrapped and transport them that were about the size of a Destroyer. But modified with workshops inside the hull and a lot of tools for repairs." Finger against her chin, she smiled some, "And, I think... that you are the nameship."

All Chikako did at that was smile brightly, happier than she had been in a long time...

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

The smell and sizzle of cooking meat filled the kitchenette before a spatula came down and pressed against ground beef shaped in the form of a patty. Leaning over, Kawa blinked some before nodding with a small smile, "Looks good." She then took a sniff and her smile widened a bit, "Smells good too."

A grin on her face, Enterprise let out a laugh, "Of course it does! I am the one cooking after all." Taking one of the patties, she flipped it over in the pan before giving the Light Cruiser a raised eyebrow, "You know that I am a good cook, and you certainly have never complained about it."

Raising her hands, the Natural Born smiled some, "No, and I never will, Enterprise-San."

With a sigh, Enterprise rolled her eyes and motioned at her with the spatula, "What have I told you, Yahagi? Call me E, you've earned it."

Only shrugging, Kawa shook her head with a small frown, "Sorry, Enterprise-San, but I don't think that I have." She then smirked a bit, "And no, being, ah, cuddly does not count towards that."

Softly snorting, the Carrier gave her a look, "Like fuck it doesn't. Seriously, how the fuck are you so nice to cuddle against, I will never know."

Lightly blushing, Kawa shook her head, "I'm not that cuddly..."

All Enterprise did was snort, "Yes, you fucking are." Over her shoulder she called out, "Oy! Princess! Tell Cuddly-As-Fuck-Chan over here that she is cuddly as hell!"

Her answer came in a distracted voice, "Hai, Yahagi-Chan is extremely cuddly."

Bemused somewhat, Enterprise glanced over to where Yamato had an odd look on her face as she scanned a number of documents. The look was somewhat pensive and unsure, which was odd to see on the Battleship. Lowering her voice, the American turned to Kawa, "Any idea what is going on with Princess? She's been reading and re-reading those documents for the past couple of hours without stopping."

Frowning, the Light Cruiser shook her head as she spoke just as low, "Your guess would be as good as mine, Enterprise-San. Because I do not know either... though Ooyodo-San brought them for Yamato-Sama to look over."

Still frowning, Enterprise considered that, "Huh, Yodo brought them, huh? Odd, not exactly something that she would normally do in person... must be important."

Kawa had a thought occur to her which made her frown, "Or... perhaps political?"

That made Enterprise raise an eyebrow in thought before slowly nodding, "You know? You might be right. Though what could it be that is making Princess act like this? I've seen her tell off those Ultranationalist dicks often enough, and in ways that leaves them wondering if she insulted them or not for several minutes. So what could get this sort of reaction from her?"

A frown on her face, the Light Cruiser shook her head, "I... don't know."

Just shrugging, Enterprise turned her attention to a pot filled with gravy, "Well, whatever it is, I got the perfect way to get her mind off it. My famous Salisbury Steaks."

Head tilted to the side, Kawa raised an eyebrow, "What is the difference between that and normal Hamburg steak?"

Waving a hand, the Carrier shook her head, "A number of things really, but mostly different ingredients as well as using gravy instead of Worcestershire sauce." Pointing at a large pot, she gave a nod, "Mind working the mashed potatoes some? That way they cook more evenly?"

In reply, Kawa nodded and began to do exactly that, "Hai."

Roughly a half hour later found Enterprise setting out the food in large plates. Each one able to feed an entire family, or two when it came to the plates that were for the two larger shipgirls. Nodding as she sat down, the Carrier smiled, "Okay, time to dig in." When she got a mumble from Yamato though, she sighed before flicking a pea that hit the Battleship in the side of the head, "Oy, Princess, dinner time. Not reading time."

Blinking, Yamato turned to them and flushed some as she set aside the paperwork, "Ah, my apologies. I was... elsewhere."

One eyebrow cocked, the American made a jabbing motion towards the Japanese Battleship with her fork, "Yeah? Rather obvious, Princess."

While Yamato apologized again, Kawa cleared her throat, "Yamato-Sama? Is... something wrong?"

That made the Battleship blink and frown as she furrowed her eyebrows in confusion, "Wrong? Why would you assume such, Yahagi-Chan?"

Chewing a bite of her own food, Kawa frowned back, "Well, you have barely said a word all afternoon since Ooyodo-San delivered those papers to you. Which is... odd." She bit her lip a bit and shook her head, "It is somewhat worrying... Politics?"

Needless to say, the fact that Yamato did not verbally answer right away was enough of one. Cutting a piece of meat, Enterprise chomped down on it before chewing and swallowing, "Okay, so it is some sort of political bullshit that has you all bothered, Princess. What's up? One of those Nationalists attempting to get you to do something like go to that Shrine?"

A scowl was on Yamato's face at that, "I, Yamato, am never going to step foot in that place." Sighing, she rubbed her forehead as she took some food, "But I only wish that it was so simple, Enterprise-San. Because that would be far better than what was dropped into my lap, as you Americans say."

Eyebrow raised, Enterprise took a sip of beer, "Okay... this sounds somewhat serious."

Hands clasped in front of her face, Yamato looked towards the window that faced eastwards, "You know of the ship being built for the JMSDF in America, Enterprise-San? The modified Wasp class?"

Slowly, the Carrier nodded, "Yeah? Why wouldn't I?" Frowning, she scratched her chin in thought, "From memory, the ship has Japanese components and I remember you and I escorting that convoy across the Pacific, what? A year or two ago?" Enterprise waved a hand in the air, "Or something like that anyways."

Unable to help herself, Yamato's lips twitched, "Hai, something like that." Her frown then returned, "The ship is supposed to be a Kanmusu Command Ship with things like Repair Baths, a Rearmament room for shipgirls, and the like. It also will be equipped with Ospreys and helicopters for transport."

Considering that, Enterprise frowned, "Yeah? And? From what I remember the US is working on our own as are other nations. Makes sense and shit to go with an Amphib due to the well dock and such. Easy to launch and be retrieved."

While the Battleship sighed, Kawa glanced at the paperwork, "What does that have to do with politics and you, Yamato-Sama?"

For a few moments, Yamato was silent before pursing her lips, "It... is because of the fact that since it is far enough along in construction, they wish to give it a name. And the first that came up is to name it after me, Yamato."

Leaning back, the Carrier was also silent before nodding, "Huh, guess that I can see why you would be pensive about that than." Upon seeing the confusion, Enterprise waved a hand, "Remember the stink that was raised by China and others when the JMSDF launched their new Aircraft Carrier, the Kaga?" At the wince from the Light Cruiser, she nodded with a serious expression, "Yeah, calling it Yamato, as great as that might be, could cause some political problems to say the least."

One eyebrow raised, Yamato gave her a look, "You think that it would be great, Enterprise-San?"

Just snorting, Enterprise gave her a salute with her beer, "In a word? Hell yeah."

Raising her finger, Kawa gave her a look, "That is two words though."

Simply rolling her eyes, the American snorted, "Bite me."

Moments later though, Yamato gave her a small smirk, "My, my, Enterprise-San. I was not aware that you were into that sort of thing. Not that there is anything wrong with it... just remember not to leave marks where they are easily visible."

Now choking on her beer, Enterprise pounded her chest before giving the Battleship a glare, "Fucking lewd Japanese! Fuck..."

Looking away, Kawa had a blush on her face as she was collateral damage. That was, until a thought occurred to her and she spoke up, "Yamato-Sama? Is that the sort of thing that one should be imagining?"

It was now Yamato's turn to do a spittake while the Carrier laughed, "Holy shit! Finally, you start!" Slapping Kawa on the back, she grinned, "Now that was the best."

Still blushing, Kawa looked away from where Yamato was wiping her mouth even as the Battleship coughed. Once she had her coughing under control, the Japanese Battleship sighed and gave Enterprise a look, "You are corrupting my Yahagi-Chan."

A smirk on her face, Enterprise leaned back, "She's mine as well now."

Unnoticed by either of them, however, the Light Cruiser in question was heavily blushing and sure that steam was coming out of her ears, 'Gah! Do either of you know what you're saying?! Y-your Yahagi!?'

Meanwhile, Enterprise tilted her head, "Anyways... I can see why you're worried about the politics. Some are going to start screaming their heads off and shit."

Only shaking her head, Yamato sighed, "Yet, one of the other names that they are considering are about as bad, Enterprise-San." At the look, she continued, "Yoshino."

Confused, the American went over her log books and continued to frown, "Uh... okay? What's the big deal about that now?"

It was Kawa who answered her, however, "Um, Yoshino is the name of an old Japanese Province. Yoshino Province split off from Yamato Province over a thousand years ago and stayed separate for a few hundred years before being reabsorbed back into Yamato Province." Arms crossed, she tilted her head, "So... they're trying to get around the issue of naming it after Yamato-Sama by naming it after a... daughter province of Yamato Province, which Yamato-Sama is named after."

Taking a bite of food, Yamato sighed, "Hai, but that does not make it any easier in some ways, Yahagi-Chan." Seeing as they were looking at her, she continued, "Yoshino was not just the name of a Province, but also was the name of a warship."

Enterprise blinked at that bit of information and went over her logs quickly, "Uh, are you sure about that, Princess? I mean, I don't remember any Japanese warship named that. Like, at all. And I sank a bunch of you guys and was around at the end of the war."

Grimacing, Yamato shook her head, "Hai, I am sure. But it was well before our time. There was once a Protected Cruiser called Yoshino which was in the Imperial Japanese Navy. And it was heavily involved in the First Sino-Japanese War including the invasion of Taiwan and the like as well as sinking a number of Chinese vessels."

At that, the Carrier hissed through her teeth, "Yeah, suddenly it becomes obvious why that might be a bad idea. The Chinese would throw a real fit over that." Rubbing her chin in thought, she frowned, "Any idea how long until they make a decision?"

Shaking her head, Yamato frowned, "No, though from the notes they have a year at least before they do. And... I am unsure still how to feel about it."

Much to her surprise, Enterprise patted her back, "Well, for what it's worth... Yamato is not a bad name. Look at how many ships have been called Enterprise for fucks sake."

That made Yamato smile a touch as she understood what her friend was trying to do. After that, the conversation drifted to other matters...

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Butterknife Mountie Makes Her (House) Arrest

Castle Moulbaix, Belgium

"In the name of the Queen, The High Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Magical Mounted Police, and the International Confederation of Wizards, I, Chief Superintendent and Auror Wei Ying of the RCMMP do arrest you, Colombe du Chasteler, for breaches of the Statute of Secrecy!"

There was momentary dead silence in the hall at Wei Ying's triumphantly smug proclamation.

Jacklyn Fox grinned in smug triumph as her cellphone immortalized her big sister Colombe du Chasteler's aristocratic jaw dropping in blank-faced shock. One hand slid down to Aomi Sato's rear and gently squeezed the Inugami's posterior, producing a low yelp.

From upstairs came the sound of someone hammering a piano's keys, followed by a bang as a string snapped. Claire's avatar twitched as her mouth moved like a beached fish with no words coming out.
Spoiler: Claire's Reaction

Masamune-no-Tokunotakai's serene face hardened and she tensed, only to be stopped by a quelling hand on her arm by a grinning Masamune-no-Fudo who spoke quietly in Japanese to her.
Spoiler: Ehren's Reaction

Ehren du Chasteler's face froze and her eyes became chips of flaming steel-blue ice as she surveyed her eldest half-sister.

The dagger spirit concentrated on one of the jorogumo spells that Miho Fujii had taught her and her fingers flicked, wrapping herself in a weave of illusion that settled over her. Ehren left behind the illusionary 'weave' of her shocked expression and frozen figure as she circled to Ying's unprotected left flank and advanced, her right wrist twitching to let her razor-sharp true body slide into her hand as the spell turned her into a spectral transparent image of herself.

As Ehren began her quiet stalk of Wei Ying, Kasuyu moved in turn. The bare-chested axe Tsukumogami flash-stepped between mother and daughter to block the way to Colombe. One massive arm was outstretched to halt her progress as the other held his axe, ablaze with layered enchantments, ready.

The younger children hid behind Miho Fujii who glared at Ying and hissed venomously.

Delilah winced as the tension in the room spiked thick enough to cut with a knife. She opened her mouth to speak a mass paralysis spell.

"Halt."

The command snapped out in a voice that brooked no arguments, the voice that had commanded on battlefields from Belguim to China and back again, had seen three centuries of combat against foes magical, mundane, and supernatural. A voice filled with the steel-deep understanding that the owner had been born and raised to command, to be at the head of every advance and the last woman in any rearguard.

The voice of Colombe d'Aubigny du Chasteler.

Ehren froze in reflexive discipline, her blade a bare inch from Ying's ribs as her free hand reached for her sister's throat to muffle any attempt to cast a spell when she went for the killing blow. Automatically her gaze flicked toward her mother whose expression was calm, serene in her command of the situation.

"I gave my word to hear you out before acting, Daughter. Speak. I am listening."

Ying automatically straightened to attention. "Yes. In brief, I have a plan to get you a fair hearing with the ICW, allow you to tell your side of the story, and see that justice is done both in your deeds saving others being honored and the crimes that you did not commit out of malice getting expunged from your record." She took a deep breath. "What I have is a warrant requesting you to report in front of a magistrate for questioning regarding the particulars of the crimes the ICW accuses you of. I will note that this is not a confinement order, merely that you notify the Court of any plans to travel in advance so that you can be reached. Voluntary compliance with this warrant will be taken into account by the court and passed along to the ICW as part of the adjudication of your case by a panel assembled to review it, including pertinent documentation which was overlooked by the charging officers when they filed the original case."

Ying looked at Delilah who nodded, "As my niece said, there will also be some review by the ICW jurisdictions who generated the initial cases. For instance, MACUSA should drop the major charges from 1927 outright after I point out to people that it was a case of self-defense, the Ku Klux Klan was a domestic terrorism organization, and the nasty chap you decapitated was a Scourer with a long and violent criminal history. Self-defense is a valid excuse for most of your actions. Expect a fine for vandalism of that damn Civil War memorial statue that I had to unjinx though, Sis."

Ying nodded, "I can't get everything dropped. China and Iran both want your guts for garters and France is being difficult. But I can give you a fighting chance to get things cleared up. I," She took a deep breath, and stared into her father's unreadable crystal blue eyes, "spent a century of my life trying to set this up for you. Give you a chance for a fair trial, for justice to be done, for the truth to come out. Please?"

Colombe looked into Ying's eyes. She then looked over to Delilah who nodded. Jackie gave her a wink as she slowly turned, looking at each person in turn.

Finally she turned to Ehren who was giving her a shocked look above her German T-shirt and sighed. "You can come out now, Ehren. That is not necessary."
Spoiler: Ehren's T-shirt

Ying started as the blonde in question faded into existence next to her as the 'Ehren' across the hall suddenly vanished in an eyeblink. Dark gray eyes found her youngest half-sister's chilly steel blue and then glanced down to an unwavering dagger point an inch from her ribs. They raised to see a ice-cold determined gaze below the pale gold eyebrows.

Ying looked into them for long moments then nodded at the unspoken message.

A thin set of lips pressed tightly together quirked minutely in a cold Teutonic face for an instant in response and the dagger made her true self vanish with a flick of the wrist. Ehren then glanced over to see an approving stare and nod from Delilah in response.

Colombe then nodded once, gracefully. "I accept your conditions for my legal obligations, Auror Wei." She stood ramrod straight as she slowly unbuckled her sword belt and presented it to Ying. "I remand myself into your custody."

Ying placed a gentle hand on the gold of Colombe's hilt. "I appreciate the gesture, but it is not necessary, your sworn word of parole is sufficient for me. I have a draft oath and the relevant paperwork in my suitcase here."
Spoiler: Fudo's Satisfaction

"Wait!" All eyes turned to Fudo as the Masamune walked forward with her gold eyes blazing. "Before she does such, I demand satisfaction for her actions involving defiling my baby sister!"

Toku facepalmed and muttered into her hands as she shook her head in denial, her cheeks scarlet.

Colombe looked at the furious Masamune. "Indeed, I should handle such a matter of honor before I swear to forsake some of my abilities. I have a salle d'armes in the Castle, will that be sufficient for your challenge?"

Fudo nodded sharply and with a convulsive yank loosened her tie. The tie flew over the marble banister of the staircase, followed by Fudo's suit coat as the Masamune rolled up her sleeves. "Quite. You have a lot to answer for dating back to 1864 and beating up my baby sister on a whim. I'll have your head for what you did to Toku-chan."

Toku walked to the nearest wall and began to thump her head into it.

Colombe shrugged and buckled her sword belt back to her waist. "Full power then? Just so there is no doubt of matters being resolved once and for all?"

"To death, incapacitation, or yielding. Full power." Fudo smirked and cracked her knuckles before giving Colombe a murderous glare full of fury.

"Neesan no baka." Toku gave Fudo a disappointed look which the tanto ignored.

Colombe shrugged. "Follow me then. I will request that we are unobserved and I also wish my challenger's indulgence so that I can raise all the wards first to prevent more damage to the castle structure than is necessary. I would prefer not to rebuild part of my home." She looked into Fudo's furious eyes until the Masamune nodded sharply.

Colombe then walked over to Toku, and kissed her, whispering in her ear which caused tears to trickle down the Masamune's flaming cheeks. She then proceeded to Claire and gave her a hug, which the piano spirit returned with rib crushing force as her mother whispered in her ear, producing a nod. Jackie, Kasayu, and Delilah got handshakes and a few quiet words, and then Colombe turned to her youngest and oldest daughters.

"I'm sorry that our family reunion will be delayed, but honor demands. I look forward to hearing your story, my child." Colombe said quietly, giving Ying a hug which the dao tearfully returned.

Ehren got a hug and a hair ruffle, and a quiet whisper. "Sei ein braves Mädchen, meine kleine Tochter." The dagger nodded sharply as her arms of their own accord hugged her mother for what could be the last time.

Few things in her life were harder for Ehren to do than stand there ramrod-straight with her mask of cool professionalism up as Colombe and Fudo walked down the hall to the salle d' armes and closed the door behind them with a hollow boom full of finality.

As a tracery of enchantment covered the door and it locked itself, silence fell in Castle Moulbaix.

 

[darthcourt10]

MagisterAurelius

Alrighty... it's Dalt Smash time.

Lonely Street VI – I Ain't as Good as I Once Was, But I'm as Good Once as I Ever Was.

Just outside the Yokosuka Naval Base Main Gate: An unassuming white van with the Mister Muffin logo on the side panels.

Gorobei finished securing his brand new GoPro to the dash of the getaway van. He saw his two accomplices nab the investigator the boss wanted to 'teach' a lesson to. Gorobei turned the camera unit on and began recording, making sure that the volume on the mic was adjusted just like his squib cousin had told him. If this job went well, Gorobei thought he might use it as useful cred to get inducted into a proper Yakuza organization. Maybe even putting it up on that 'youtube' on the internet thing his cousin had mentioned could open up new opportunities for him.

The side door slid open with Ichiro entering first, while Taro shoved the witch into the middle seat. Taro slammed the door shut.

"GO! GO! GO!" Ichiro shouted.

"WHERE?" Gorobei shouted back. No one had informed him where to drive them to in the first place!

"MAGICAL MINATO WARD YOU DUMBSHIT!" Taro yelled back. As Gorobei rapidly accelerated away from the scene, Taro continued in a lower tone, "2-chome Azabu-juban. You know, the boss's funhouse? He wants to watch this dumb bitch get what's coming to her for putting his dad in jail."

Gorobei made the turn to merge onto the expressway he needed. Ichiro looked at the dash. "Hey are you recording this?" Gorobei nodded. "Cool man. Shit, straighten your ties guys. We gotta look like pros for this, right?"

Taro just chuckled, "Don't worry about it. Once we get there, we can record the fun and games. Boss wants us to make sure we all have our piece of 'Christmas Cake' before it expires."

Gorobei just winced and kept driving. He didn't mind the rough stuff much, but even the actual Yakuza had lines didn't they? High achievement to Gorobei was to approach mediocrity, but even he could see that taking things as far as Taro was suggesting would doom any chance of him of ever coming close to that. All he could do now was keep driving.

-0-

Dalt finished his shower rendition of 'Nessun Dorma' and turned off the water. Years of shipboard practice saw him towel off, shave and dress within five minutes of completing his shower. Picking a black polo shirt to go with the tan chino trousers, he grinned in the mirror, and was walking out the door to the main gate.

As he passed the main gate, Dalt looked to the bench where Kiho would be waiting. Dalt's pace to the bench hurried as there was no sign of her. Coming up to the bench, cold fingers of ice gripped his heart when he saw her notebook just lying on the ground. Dalt picked it up, putting it into his pants pocket, and ran back to the gate where he flashed his ID.

"A woman I've been seeing called me earlier and said she'd be waiting for me on that bench. Have you seen her? Her notebook was just lying on the ground and there's no sign of her in the vicinity."

The guard looked confused for a moment, then recognition set in. "No, wait, yes. Yes, I did see her just maybe ten minutes ago, I think? Yes, two large men were putting her into a white van."

Dalt's voice went glacial. "What. Two men putting a woman into a van is normal at this gate? Did you get a license plate?"

The guard stammered as it seemed like a cloud lifted from his mind. "N-N-No! It's not normal. Then why? I can't remember a plate. But something else. Y-Yes! It was a Mister Muffin van! I saw the logo on the side and thought I could go for a muffin for lunch."

"Call Ooyodo. Let her know that a Mitsue Kiho was just abducted in front of the main gate. Now." Dalt's tone was low, calm and promised horrible things if denied. While he waited, Dalt tried calling Kiho's cell phone. The phone rang until it went to voicemail. Dalt thumbed through the many useless apps on his phone until he came to the one he wanted. He clicked on the GPS cell phone tracker and entered Kiho's phone number.

It was only a matter of minutes before Captain Yonehara, Ooyodo, her small squad of shipgirls, and Haru Ono arrived on the scene. Dalt quickly explained and Ooyodo, Haru and Yonehara took a look at the security camera footage from the main gate.

"I need a vehicle." Dalt's tone brooked no refusal. He wanted to grind his teeth so badly as he could feel the rage building inside. It took a great deal of stress and anguish to loosen the chains Dalton Longsteet had wrapped around the monster of fury and frustration at his life, but god help the doomed target of that rage.

Luckily, before Dalt could simmer any further, a small Honda came up with the ship-girl Takao driving. Yonehara directed her to drive Dalt to wherever Mitsue Kiho was being held. As the destroyers Sagiri and Oboro climbed into the backseat of the Honda, Yonehara turned to Dalt.

"We'll follow as soon as we can. Wait for backup," Yonehara stopped for a second at Dalt's expression, "if you can."

"If worst comes to worst and they harm her, Captain? You might want to bring a Shop-Vac." With a nod of thanks to Takao, Dalt sat in the passenger's seat and the car took off.

-0-

Gorobei parked the Mister Muffin van in front of the Imada compound on a quiet residential street in Azubu-juban of the Magical Minato ward. Taro opened the side door and got out. "Bring her inside." Gorobei grabbed his GoPro and followed Taro and Ichiro as they carried the paralyzed Mitsue Kiho between them. As he passed by the black-suited guard at the gate, he blanched at the guard's muttered disdain. "Fucking morons."

Hauling the investigator into the main house and foyer, they knock on the carved and metal studded great interior hall doors. They enter and find only the two bodyguards for Imada Hayato waiting for them. "Boss is busy breaking in a new pet. It will be a few." After standing around for fifteen awkward minutes listening to the sounds of a lash, yowls of pain and sadistic laughter, Gorobei walks off to the side of the room and sits down with the camera still recording. Eventually his boss emerges from a back bedroom, zipping up his pants with a leering grin. "Alright. Finally, you losers managed to find the bitch. Oh well, it's not like she'll be needing to go back to her shitty trashed apartment or shitty pathetic trashed office ever again. Take that ofuda off her and stand her up. I want her to hear and see what's going to come to her."

Taro and Ichiro stand Mitsue up and remove the paralysis ofuda.

-0-

Mitsue Kiho finally blinks, the paralysis over. It takes a moment to regain her sense of balance, but she realizes she's been abducted and then she sees by whom. Internally, she grimaces but then calms. I still have my wand. Watch for your chance Kiho, then deal with these fools. Dalt must be frantic with worry by now. Her attention latches onto the sneering young man who walks up to her.

"Mitsue Kiho. You put my father in prison for using those animals in the only manner they're fit for! So I'm going to make certain you pay for that. See, I'm going to watch as you get used as a plaything for a group of oni. Then my boys get their turn with you. Only then will I grant you leave to die and we will dump your corpse on the doorstep of those animal lovers in Kyoto."

"Big promises for such a little..." Kiho's next word was cut off as he slapped her.

"Shut up you..." he in turn was interrupted by a ringtone.

'My boyfriend's back and you're gonna be in trouble... ♫'

"Answer that you shithead!" Imada Hayato growled.

Answering the phone the sheepish bodyguard looked puzzled, "That's not my ringtone, what the.. Moshi moshi? Ah Kenta. Wait, what do you..."

THOOMTHOOMTHOOM

-0-

A few minutes before THOOMAGE: in Takao's car.

Takao looked over at the quiet Coast Guard Master Chief. He had said little beyond what driving directions and turns she needed to make, and thanks he had given as he buckled into the passenger's seat. The heavy cruiser could feel the concern and the carefully controlled rage he was radiating. Even the two destroyers Sagiri and Oboro were looking concerned at Dalt, clearly wanting to comfort the upset man.

"There. The white van. Pull over here, and I'll take it from here." Dalt stated this calmly, but Takao caught an undercurrent of terrifying certainty behind that phrase. He's either going to rescue this person or avenge them, even if it kills him. Takao wanted to say something, to tell him to wait for help, but she couldn't force herself to say it. Something within her felt envy of the person that inspired such devotion. She could only blurt out a quick, "Be careful Longstreet-san, these people may try to stop you."

Dalt leaned down and briefly grinned as he stepped out of the car. "They may try. But I will not stop. Though Hell itself bars the way."

Dalt had left the car and was striding purposefully to the gate with the white van parked in front. Takao remained sitting. Until Sagiri poked her. "Ano, Takao-sama? Shouldn't we be following Longstreet-san?" Then Oboro peered at Takao's face.

"Takao-sama? Why are you blushing?"

"YES! Let's follow!" Takao clapped her hands together in an attempt to pull herself together. By the time the three shipgirls had exited the car, Dalt had already gone through the gate and the guard there was speaking into his cell phone.

-0-

"WHAT THE SHIT?" Imada Hayato yells.

"Boss, Kenta says that he quits and there's a very angry man to see you."

"I don't give a shit! And Kenta better get his ass.."

Imada stops as a voice reverberates through the thick doors with their anti-blasting curse wards.

"EITHER MITSUE KIHO COMES OUT UNHARMED, OR I COME IN. ANY MAN WHO DOESN'T WANT TO DIE, BETTER HEAD ON OUT THE BACK."

Imada snorts. "Who is this fool? On the count of three we open the doors and blast him to pieces. You two," he motions to his hulking bodyguards, "get to the sides of the doors. We let him walk in, confundus the shit out of him and kill him."

As Imada backed up with his wand to Kiho's throat, using her as a shield, Kiho worried in her mind. Dalt is here? I hope his resistance can stop a confundus. After Imada had backed himself and Kiho up a distance he started counting, "Three.... Two....".

Gorobei was still off to the side, forgotten but recording everything as Imada counted down. But before the count hit one, the wall next to the door exploded.

-0-

Before Dalt made his ultimatum, he had tapped along the wall next to the door. After all, he had to give them a chance. But he wasn't so angry as to ignore a better option to trying to break down a heavy reinforced door. Interior doors like that were very strong and could take the abuse. But the drywall right next to such doors was so much more accommodating to the dynamic entry he was about to employ. I could shout 'OH YEAH', but I believe it would be wasted on them. The door remained closed. Dalt backed up to the far end of the foyer and took over at a dead run, his arms crossed in front of him in a 'X'

As Dalt burst through the wall, he impacted into one of the goons waiting on the other side of the wall. His momentum allowed him to take the goon for a ride through the semi-ornamental plaster pillar holding up a second story balcony. Dalt let the goon slid off his arms as he pivoted on his foot and launched himself towards yet another goon. Behind him, large chunks of the falling plaster pillar smashed the first bodyguard into unconsciousness. Target two attempted to try a martial arts palm strike on him. Dalt grabbed the extended wrist and pulled. When the target's elbow locked he placed his other hand on it and pushed away, while pulling the wrist towards him. There was a sickening crack as the elbow joint immediately bent ninety degrees the wrong way, and the elbow's owner screamed in agony.

He heard the voices of the two remaining thugs yell out. When he turned his gaze on them, they were blinking at him with vapid surprise as they held wands in his direction. Dalt frowned and grabbed the broken elbowed wretch at hand. Dalt tossed the wailing thug into the more distant of the wand pointers and the collision took them both to the floor. The other punk had recovered enough to try charging Dalt. Dalt backhanded him across the lower jaw with a closed fist. Dalt was mildly aware of the sound of a cracking jawbone, and could even see the flight of almost ten teeth from the thug's mouth to where they tinkled across the marble floor. A follow up punch to the solar plexus doubled the goon over and he crumpled. Dalt strode over to the last thug, who had managed to get back to his feet. As the idiot tried to cast a spell again, Dalt kicked out, his foot catching the man's kneecap and shattering it. As the goon fell, his face caught Dalt's fist and the goon flew back into the wall with a resounding thud. He slid to the floor unconscious. Dalt scanned for more targets, his eyes catching view and dismissing the camera holding Gorobei. In shock and just pissed himself. Deal with him later.

Dalt silently crossed back to the middle of the room towards Kiho and her abductor.

-0-

Kiho was stunned. Dalt had burst through the wall and in less than a minute had completely incapacitated all four of the thugs Imada had. Their magic sloughed off Dalt like water. She felt a shove in her back as Imada pushed her into Dalt. Who caught her and put himself in front of her as a shield as he faced the panicking boy.

"Stay away! My grandfather is an important man! You'll pay for this you.. you.. and that hanyou whore of yours!"

"No, we won't. You.. are already dead."

Imada's eyes bulged at this, he pointed his wand off to an alcove, cast a spell of unlocking and shouted, "Kill them all Malice!"

Kiho had just gotten her wand out, but she gasped as Imada's pet Nundu stalked free of its cage. "No.. Dalt we have to..." She didn't finish as the Nundu leaped.

-0-

Dalt's anger had been on a cold simmer. It had allowed him to take out the goons without resorting to lethal blows. But by releasing a beast as dangerous as a Nundu, Dalt completely lost his temper. As the Nundu leaped, Dalt counter leaped into the Nundu and put his fists together. He brought his fists down into a hammer blow on the Nundu's head. They crashed to the floor together, fists and claws thrashing out at each other in a man versus beast version of going at it hammer and tongs.

When they finally separated enough to circle, the Nundu was warily growling at a foe that would not be vanquished easily. Dalt, veins bulging in rage, snarled back at the beast. When it leaped again, Dalt slipped to the side and grabbed the rear legs of the Nundu. Pivoting in a circle, Dalt pulled forward with all his strength, reversing the Nundu's momentum and cracking it against the marble floor like a whip. Dalt repeated this slam again and again, until at last the Nundu's body lay limp and unbreathing on the floor.

Imada screamed in rage at the loss of his pet. Kiho's hand shot to her mouth as Imada cast a string of dark curses at Dalt. But every curse proved ineffective. Nothing worked.

"Crucio!" Imada screamed, and Kiho watched in shock as the Unforgivable didn't even faze Dalt, except seeming to enrage him further, as he advanced on Imada. Then Imada grimaced and cast.

"Confringo Ultima Maximus!" The most powerful blasting charm Kiho had ever seen hit Dalt head on. The blast raised dust obscuring her vision. When the cloud cleared, Dalt remained standing, albeit now shirtless as the charm proved his polo was not resistant to magic. Then Dalt moved, and held Imada's closed wand hand in his own powerful fist.

"Did you know that the human hand has twenty eight bones in it?" Dalt asked calmly. Kiho saw his fist squeeze and she heard Imada's bones breaking. "You now have fifty six in yours. What else should I break?"

Kiho realized that Dalt was going to continue until Imada no longer drew breath. I can't let him do that. Imada is not worth that. "DALT-SAN! PLEASE! DON'T KILL HIM!"

Dalt turned to Kiho with a look of genuine surprise on his face. He inhaled deeply. Several times. "Is she not merciful?" Dalt looked back to the pained face of Imada Hayato who's broken hand Dalt still grasped like a vice, working the breaks. Dalt sniffed and looked down. "Ah, I believe someone gets a little incontinent when they're in pain. You know, I was going to hurt you a great deal. To try and extract all the pain your body contains, just to make you pay for what you were going to do to someone I care deeply for. Oh, to be sure, there would not be enough. But I would have tried."

Dalt took a breath and his eyes landed on the mook standing stock still with the camera. Pointed their way, as if he was physically unable to stop. Dalt's eyes lit up. And he smiled. "But perhaps the greater pain, will be living with everyone you know and care for having the knowledge of your crimes. Because your faithful minion has recorded everything." Dalt took the wand from Imada's hand and promptly snapped it between his fingers.

-0-

Takao and her attendant destroyers just looked on in shock at what had just happened. She shook herself out of her reverie as Dalt frogmarched a young man towards them and a woman with brownish grey hair marching a shocked man with a camera at wandpoint. By this time Captain Yonehara, and a team of Kyoto aurors had also arrived.

Takao looked at Longstreet and was about to speak, when Mitsue-san wrapped her arms around Dalt's. Dalt handed Takao a GoPro camera. "Here's all the evidence everyone should need. Thank you for the ride here Takao-san. You got me here just in time."

"Indeed. Thank you Takao-san. I am in your debt. Let's turn in these miscreants and leave Dalt-san." Kiho added. Dalt and Kiho walked off, shoving the two walking members of the gang into the arms of the aurors, get into a cab and leave.

"Takao-sama?" Sagiri looked away from Takao as she spoke. "I think Mitsue-san was not amused by your staring at Longstreet-san."

"Totally not okay. Of course you still have a little drool from the corner of your mouth. BUT! I mean, I get it. Longstreet-san has that total Dad-bod thing going..."

Takao wiped her mouth and prepared for a long afternoon of debriefing. "Oboro-san, as New Jersey-san would say, don't be a little shit."

-0-

08:00 pm, Dalt's house on base

Kiho sighed. Her apartment had been completely ransacked by those idiots. She was able to put together enough things to last her until it was put back into order, but she was still happy that Dalt had offered to let her crash in his home till then. She knew he was busy prepping his couch in the front room for him to sleep on, but her mind wouldn't give her peace. No, after this, I have no doubts. She smirked as she held up one of her garments that she hadn't remembered packing from her apartment. Oh well, time for me to amaze Dalt.

-0-

Dalt felt satisfaction as he cricked his neck. He would be paying through the nose for the exertions he pulled today. But that was the price of activating 'Dalt Smash' mode.

"Dalt?"

Dalt turned to his bedroom doorway where Kiho's voice had just spoke... and was struck dumb. Kiho leaned against the doorway, wearing a baby-doll negligee and beckoning him closer. He walked over and when he was close enough she wrapped her arms around his neck, staring into his eyes with longing.

"Please call me Kiho, Dalt. Just Kiho."

"Kiho, I..I umm.."

"Shhh.." She put a finger to his lips and turned out the light.

-0-0-0-0-0-

Whee... finally done with it.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

The Chapter In Which A Butterknife Mountie Realizes Axe Is For Manly Tsukumogami, A Piano Is Reparoed, A Legendary Pirate Expedition Is Launched, And A Stepmother and Stepdaughter Open Up To Each Other

Castle Moulbaix, Belgium

Every eye in the castle was turned to the door which Masamune-no-Fudo and Colombe du Chasteler had just closed behind them for their full power duel of honor.

The thud of the lock shooting home made the silence deepen and become more grave as the first ward flared to life. Another and another flashed to life to contain the energies that would soon be unleashed on the two blades inside.
Spoiler: The Fujii Pirates Set Sail!

A sniffle filled the hall and Jacklyn looked at the young tanuki whose lip was trembling. She walked over and knelt in front of the child, ruffling her hair and spoke with confidence in her surprisingly gentle and empathetic voice. "Oi, no need for that. Me Sister has come through worse fights."

A sparkle filled her eyes as she looked at the two children and their teenage minder and continued in that gentle voice. "In fact, while Sis is bein' all high and snooty, it is time for Capn' Jacklyn Fox, the Terror of the Sargasso Sea to venture forth in search of grand adventure... If I have a few junior pirates to halp me grand and noble quest."

Chihiro blinked and focused on Jacklyn. With a note of interest in her voice and her worries forgotten for the moment the young Tanuki spoke. "Pirates, like in the books in the library that Ehren-chan read to us with the pictures and everything?"

Jacklyn gave a roguish smirk. "Aye, me hearties. I'm the greatest one of them all, The Red Fox of the Sargasso Sea. I have me nose for treasure here," she touched her twitching nose with a fingertip as her tail wagged, "that tells me that there's a hidden treasure in the attics here just waitin' for some brave buccaneer wenches to track it down and claim it for their own."

Behind her the inugami Aomi Sato smiled despite herself as the crafty old rogue spun a tale to reel the children in and take their minds of what was happening.

Miho Fujii also smiled and the jorogumo spoke, "But the attics are such a big place..."

"So we plunder the kitchen for vittles and a dram of rum for the celebration later!" Misaki cheered at the possibility of an adult-sanctioned kitchen raid on the chocolate cake that had been baked last night.

"...and locked up by Lady Du Chasteler..." Miho's smile widened as she listed the 'terrible obstacles' to be overcome by her wards.

"Nae lock exists that the Red Fox can not pick in search of adventure and booty!" Jackie gestured dramatically, her smug smirk promising an epic quest.

"...and we don't have a proper pirate map to that hidden treasure." By this point, Miho was as enthralled as the children hanging on every word of Jacklyn's tale.

"...Hmmph, I have me an old coded map that I won in battle against a fellow rapscallion of the Spanish Main here!" Jackie dug out a piece of parchment covered with scribbles, doodles, betting odds on horses, a figure that might be a beautiful lady's sketch if you squinted the wrong way in poor light (Jackie being an indifferent artist at best), navigational notes, and a reminder to swing by the local dry-cleaner in San Francisco and pick up her second-favorite coat.

"Oooooo!!" The yokai children, Miho and Aomi chorused in stereo as they ignored a muffled thud from behind the warded door.

Jackie never let her true thoughts reach her confident face as she put on her Captain's mask. Colombe, you better come back to me. The fish had been hooked and reeled in, now to land them. "So who wishes to set sail with Capn' Fox's crew brave and true to claim this treasure?"

Everyone's hand shot into the air. "Me!"

"Then hoist anchor and set sail!" The crowd of junior apprentice pirates-in-training proceeded to fiercely charge the kitchen where the cake and milk waited to be pilfered (along with a thermos full of espresso for Miho).

--------------------------------

Delilah walked over to her niece and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Are you all right, Moonbeam?"

Claire shook her head and winced. "Really hurts, Aunt Del..." she whimpered.

Delilah glanced over at where Jacklyn had the children in hand, and then the other way where Ehren, Toku, Kasuyu and Ying stood. "Let's go upstairs and see what happened, then."

Claire leaned on her aunt and sniffled as they made their way to the piano's room. "T-thanks Aunt Del..."

Delilah hugged her niece. "Thank you. I need something to take my mind off," a muffled detonation from downstairs, "that. I really hate not being in control of a situation."

Claire nodded and then hesitantly opened her lid. "Mommy's going to be OK, right?"

Delilah nodded absently, "Think so. She has a lot to fight for like you and Ehren, and she is very good." She then looked inside the soundbox and whistled. "Wow, you blew out a string, Moonbeam."

Claire muttered. "Really really hurts." She looked around her cluttered room with sheet music, speakers, her sound system, her keyboard, and books on composers and music and sat down on her bed.

Delilah pulled out her wand and held the broken string into place. "Let's see if this works. Reparo!"

Claire shivered as the damaged string knitted itself back up. "B-better." Her voice was higher pitched than normal.

"Good. You sound off though." Delilah cleared a stack of sheet music from a nearby chair and sat down.

"Need tuning." Claire reached inside and began to turn the square knobs with one hand as she tapped keys with the other. She hummed idly as Delilah watched.

"I'll get my hands on some Repair Fluid for you, Claire. According to what MACUSA has found out about it, it doesn't just work on ship girls, but also on us." Delilah mused as she watched Claire work.

"Mmm-hmm." The piano responded absently as she made another subtle adjustment to her tune and tapped her F-sharp key. Claire pulled her hand from her case and smiled. "All done."
Spoiler: The Ballad of Black Del and Saloon Piano

Delilah smiled smugly and responded teasingly. "No we aren't. Now I get paid for being the Muramasa Piano Repair Revolver, Moonbeam. I think I'll get my payment in... hm. I know..." She waved her wand and her dress shifted to a cowboy's outfit with a black Stetson hat. "Imma Black Del, the Terror of the Open Range, and I'm gonna come into this saloon where a lovely young piano is playin'..."

Claire laughed happily and shifted her avatar's outfit to a 19th Century Saloon girl's outfit as Del 'swaggered in' and glared at her. "Play me some Morricone, ye flower of the tumbleweed!" Delilah demanded in a raspy accent straight out of a Spaghetti Western.

Claire's fingers found her keys and she gushed, "Oh, is there no brave lawman in this here town to save me?" The ear to ear grin on her face put the lie to this particular damsel being in distress.

---------------------------------
Spoiler: Axe and Dao

Wei Ying took a deep breath. She had few doubts that Father was incredibly capable and experienced in personal combat.

Versus the martial artist she had witnessed fight in Tokyo though....

The question was how good was Father compared to another sword spirit's mastery of battle?

She silently tried to reassure herself and thaw the ball of ice in her gut.

Only a fool would not believe that Colombe was a deadly opponent after reading her ICW case file. That was one major reason that she was still free, in fact. The ICW's concern was that trying to hunt her down would result in losses among the Aurors and further major damage to the Statute of Secrecy from the fight. Better to wait for the right time or for her to make a mistake.

A smug grin tugged at her lip. The time was right, Colombe had made a mistake in a sense.

But have I made a mistake by coming here? By saving Masamune-no-Fudo's existence in Tokyo when she nearly killed herself with her powers? By underestimating how much the Japanese hated Colombe?

No, saving a life could never be wrong. The rest though....?

A muffled explosion and a wisp of smoke coming from under the door redoubled her worries.

Casting about for something, she looked at the three other spirits in the hall. The Japanese girl in the black T-shirt and skirt was pacing nervously, her serene face clearly a facade. No help there, especially since she would talk to a Japanese as a last resort.

Her eyes shifted to the blond girl leaning against the stairs next to Fudo's discarded coat and tie. A cold, measuring stare met her as Ehren returned her gaze and Ying mentally shivered.

What she had seen in the depths of the dagger's eyes earlier had chilled her to the core. If Colombe had not stopped her youngest daughter, the first indication that she would have had that Ehren was planning to remove a perceived threat to her family would have been the feel of steel sliding between her ribs and splitting her heart.

In hindsight, perhaps she should have paid more attention to the I Ching counseling about making sure the river was crossed before exiting the boat. Clearly her younger half-sister viewed her with no small degree of suspicion and mistrust for announcing her 'arrest' of Colombe.

No. Best let sleeping Canada Geese lie there and when Colombe came out - if she came out her treacherous guilty conscience reminded her as a muffled thud sounded - then see about making amends to Ehren.

With that her eyes turned to the massive bulk of Kasuyu as the axe spirit stood like a bare chested rock in his red and green kilt. According to Delilah the axe had been acquired on Colombe's trips to Africa in the late 1890s so perhaps...?

With that she walked over. "Kasuyu, right?"

A nod and a velvet-smooth bass rumble. "I am. And you are the Mistress' eldest daughter, yes."

Ying smiled and nodded, "Since we have the time, I was wondering if you could tell me about how you met my father."

The Axe looked at her for long moments, then his shaved bullet head nodded. "I can. Follow me."

He led her to an octagonal room on the first floor that appeared to be a trophy room. Battle flags, weapons from three continents, stuffed lion and leopard heads, and a pair of massive raw ivory tusks dominated it. He lowered himself into a hardwood and leather antique rocking chair which creaked alarmingly under his weight and clasped his hands in his lap. "Sit, please."

Ying nodded and sat in the matching chair to face him. Unnoticed by her a carved copper bracelet glittered in the early morning sunlight through the window where it was displayed under a snarling lion head. "A story for a story, I tell you a tale of myself and the Mistress and you tell a tale of your travels then?"

Ying smiled smugly. "I can do this. And I suppose as the guest, I shall go first. Far from here across the Atlantic lies the wizarding school of Ilvermorny on Mount Greylock in America. In 1866, as a young girl of eleven I traveled there to learn the magic of Father's people. Mother had begun to teach me the spells of my native China, but she and my Stepfather had decided that it would be better for me to learn gwailou magics too to be licensed and move among them as a known witch. I did not know it then, but later I realized that this was to allow me to cast magic without Mother's enemies in China suspecting that we had escaped them."

Kasuyu leaned forward in clear interest as Ying continued. "Unknown to either of us at the time, the skinny short girl in an expensive and stylish burgundy wool dress and white lace bonnet next to me with the carpetbag valise would be my biggest rival at Ilvermorny. Aunt Delilah accidentally whacked me with it as we got directed to line up in file to approach the Courtyard where we would be Sorted into our Houses, and then gave me a smug smirk when I glared at her. I took the opportunity when she got sent ahead of me to give her arm a pinch, I was spiteful back then, and she glared at me." Ying laughed. "I remember watching her walk into the courtyard where the carving of the Gordian Knot in the stone glowed with a cycle of all four colors. Bright Green for Horned Serpent, electric Blue for Thunderbird, shining Gold for Wampus Cat and Crimson for Puckwudgie. Delilah stepped to the middle of the glyph and a stir ran through the crowd as two of the four statues reacted to her. The Thunderbird beat its wings as the crystal in the Horned Serpent's head sprang to life. She had the choice of which House she would join and picked Thunderbird, the House of Adventurers, walking to stand on the steps to her House next to a First Nations girl, Louise Winona, who would be her best friend."

Ying smiled. "I was next and as before both the Horned Serpent and Thunderbird reacted to my essence. I hesitated, then saw that little shit who had whacked me give me the most smug, knowing smirk that I have ever seen, and refused to put up with that girl for an instant longer than I had to. I walked to stand by the Horned Serpent statue and gave her my best 'My House is better than your House' superior stare as I joined the House of Scholars. Next was our mutual friend Madeline Aetos, from a Greek family in New Orleans, who was picked by Horned Serpent and would be alongside Louise Winona the peacemakers that prevented Delilah and I from killing each other over the next seven years...."

---------------------------
Spoiler: Ehren and Toku

Ehren watched as Wei Ying departed with Kasuyu and her brow wrinkled minutely. She did not know how to deal with this new sister, and was not sure how to explain to her that if she had known Wei Ying's plan to clear Mother's name in advance she would not have tried to kill her.

With that she turned to the Masamune, who had stopped her pacing for the moment and was trying to bore a hole in the wood of the door with her eyes.

Did she dare to open herself up...?

Another dull thump sounded from the Salle d'Armes, followed by a stream of green smoke from under the door.

Toku's fists clenched harder and blood dripped from where her nails bit into her palms. Ehren knew that pain all too well from her own tormented past.

With that insight Ehren acted. She silently walked to Toku's side and placed her hand gently on her stepmother's shoulder. "Watching is hard, ja? Seeing things that you must step in and stop but cannot, actions that you wish to take and being unable to do so." Her voice was quiet and somber.

Toku turned and nodded as she looked into Ehren's slightly shiny steel blue eyes with her tear filled blue-green. "Hai. All my life, I have waited and watched, the habit of a lifetime and yet it never got easier."

Ehren's lip curled minutely up in understanding. "When one witnesses something that she wishes with all her heart that she could have acted to stop and yet has to accept that she was unable to, it is hard."

Toku sighed deeply, "Yes. Before... the Pacific War, I tried to stop it. Spoke against it, counseled those that I knew that the coming war was madness. And... failed." The Masamune's shoulders slumped, "I could have done more, perhaps, but was bound by the chains of what I saw as my duty. Then when the War came, all I could do is help who and where I could. Fudo-nee..."

Toku looked at the door, "My sister, she had a different view back then, she was arrogant, short-sighted, confident in her righteousness. And paid a terrible price for it. The young man that she had feelings for... left for battle, to try to stop the inevitable, and only returned as an urn of ashes after the war. He was one of my greatest students, and..." Toku sighed, "I share some fault for their tragedy, for training him to be worthy of a Masamune's love, for not persuading him that he was truly worthy of my sister, and then for not being there for her both during his life and after he left for Saipan. After his death, things were very hard for Fudo-nee. Ehren-san, my sister is not a bad person, truly, but she is scarred by her experiences. She has lost much, and fears that she will lose me to Colombe and to what I must do."

Tears trickled from blue-green eyes, "Love is a strange thing, neh? If only one shall return to us, I do not truly know whose loss I would regret more."

Ehren nodded and hesitantly embraced Tokunotakai around the waist as they stood vigil. "It is a hard thing to have to choose between two loves, ja." Ehren whispered into Toku's shoulder as a single tear slipped from her iron control.

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

Soft smile on his face, Haku glanced to the side where Kiyohime was working alongside him to prepare food. There was something undeniably adorable about the sight of the feared "Demoness of the Hidaka" with an apron on and her hair covered by a bandana. Especially when combined with the happy look on her face and the hums coming from her mouth. Chuckling, Haku caught her attention, "Sorry, Kiyohime, but you're being pretty cute right now."

Blushing, Kiyohime gave him a look, "Haku-Kun..."

All he did though was shrug, "What? It's true, you are pretty cute. And especially at times like these." Motioning with one hand, Haku continued, "You just look so... content."

Looking down at her hands as she continued to work, she gave a small nod, "Hai, I guess that I am." A small smile grew on her face, "I... don't think that I can state, Haku-Kun, just how much this is a dream to me. A wonderful dream that I hope that I will never wake from if it is one." Kiyohime closed her eyes as a small tear gathered in the corner, "Growing up, all I wanted was to be a good wife. Much like other girls in the village, but..."

Placing his part of the cooking aside, Haku walked over and hugged her. He put his hand on one side of her face and gently stroked her cheek before wiping away the tear, "Anchin was a fool and an ass for what he did. You, Kiyohime, are a wonderful woman."

With that, Kiyohime opened her eyes though her chest felt constructed, "Thank you, Haku-Kun. Though I feel like I was far more of a fool for ever believing him and what he told me. Especially the night we met in his room and..." Quickly shaking those memories away, as she did not want to think about them, she gave Haku a thankful look and kissed him, "Sorry, Haku-Kun."

Only shaking his head, the eighteen year old frowned at her, "Kiyohime, you have nothing to be sorry about. And I've said before, if I could? I would kick his ass for what he did to you."

Unable to help herself, Kiyohime giggled, "I would like to see that, though it would not be too hard." Leaning into him, she softly sighed, "I am just glad that I have you, Haku-Kun. And I thank the Kami for that."

Gently, he kissed her brow and smiled, "Same here, Kiyohime, same here..." After a few moments, he pulled away some as he decided to change the subject, "Anyways, are you excited about tomorrow? I mean, we are going to head out for Hanami."

That reminder brought a smile to Kiyohime's face, "Hai, I am very excited about that, Haku-Kun." Her expression softened and she blushed some, "Especially as it marks one year since we..."

Grinning a bit, Haku laughed a bit, "Since we became boyfriend and girlfriend." At her shy nod, he shook his head, "Time flies... but I've loved the fact that we've been together for a year." The eighteen year old's lips twitched some, "And I am especially happy that I can now spend more time with you since I've now finished school."

Lips twitching, the Demoness poked him in the forehead which made him chuckle, "But you still have the university courses that you're taking, Haku-Kun."

Eyebrow raised, Haku gave her a kiss and pulled back, "Yes, and? Those are all online courses that I am taking, which means that I don't need to leave the comfort of home..." His arms shifting a bit around her so that they are around Kiyohime's waist, he whispered into her ear, which provoked a shiver as she felt his warm breath wash over her skin, "Or the comfort of your presence, Kiyohime."

Cheeks warm with her heart pounding in her chest, yet feeling like she was soaring, Kiyohime hummed before kissing him. Pulling back slightly, she leaned her forehead against his, "Thank you, Haku-Kun."

All the young man did was smile back at her before they went back to working at making their meals for the next day. Glancing over at his girlfriend, Haku chuckled some, "You do realize that we don't need to make that much food, right? It is just the two of us after all."

Giggling, Kiyohime nodded, "I know that, Haku-Kun. But... best to be ready in case I do get that hungry." Looking at the stew, she laddled it into some containers to be put into the fridge. With her ability to create fire and heat, she could easily reheat it so that they could have some hot food with their date, "Sometimes I get very hungry."

That got a laugh from Haku who grinned back at her, "I can confirm that." Moments later, he let out a fake ouch as she whacked him in the arm, a grin on her own face, "Ow... that hurt, Kiyohime."

While she attempted to keep a stern expression on her face, and failed due to smiling too much, the young woman next to him scoffed, "You should know better than to poke fun at a young woman's eating habits."

Of course, seconds later, Kiyohime let out a squeak as she found Haku hugging her again and nuzzling her behind the ear. The feeling of which made her squirm a little before he kissed her ear and made her shudder, "Sorry about that, Kiyohime... Forgive me?"

Swallowing as she breathed a bit harder, she gave a nod before turning towards him. A slight blush sprang up on Haku's face as he saw her pupils had narrowed to slits before she took a deep breath and let it out, reigning herself back under control. Part of him did wonder what would have happened if she had not gotten herself under control again...

Then, Kiyohime gave him a hard kiss before pulling back, "Always, Haku-Kun... always."

Giggles escaped her as it took Haku a few moments to get his thoughts straightened out after the kiss that she had given him. Once he had, the eighteen year old and given her a grin, "Thanks."

In return, that got him a brilliant smile and another kiss.

Later that night after they had gone to bed, Haku was staring up at the ceiling as Kiyohime peacefully slept with her head on his shoulder. Inside of his head, he went back over the conversation that he had with his girlfriend. In particular, the part concerning how he was happy to be out of school now. Especially as it meant that he could spend more time with her.

Not that he had lied about that, not in the slightest as he was extremely happy that he was now out of school and able to spend all the time in the world with Kiyohime. And both of them had enjoyed that fact, often just smiling and laughing between housework's for Kiyohime and Haku writing some. But... that conversation had brought him back to when he had graduated.

As he had always been told, graduation was a happy day, and it was. The Sun had shone down and it was a nice day. Much to his joy, he spotted Kiyohime in the back of the crowd watching him with a bright smile on her face. Akira, being a Tanuki and thus an expert in illusions, had gifted them with something that would hide Kiyohime's more inhuman features for a time. Which allowed the dragoness to come to her boyfriend's graduation. And it made his heart soar to see it, especially the look on her face that told him that she was proud.

Much to his amusement, it had seemed like she was more excited for it than he had been! Not too surprising as she had told him that few were the ones back in her day that had any real education. And to graduate marked one as being someone who would go far...

Well, that and gently tease him about how it made him even better husband material in her eyes.

Yet...

Yet...

There was some sadness there. And not just of the melancholy sort that a chapter of your life was now closed, never to return. Part of that sadness was because in the crowd, there had been one person missing. One that he wished would have been there with him, his grandmother. But she had passed some years before and thus, on one of the most important days of his life, he had to deal with the fact that she was not there... at least, physically. Kiyohime had told him that she had felt his grandmother's spirit there on that day, and that it had felt proud of him. That had helped.

Of course, the other issue was... also more obvious. It was not just his grandmother who was not there. No, his parents were also missing as well from the ceremony. While he had expected it, at the same time there was a small part of him, which seemed like himself when he had been a young child, asking why they did not come. Sure, they had sent some congratulations to him in the mail and told him to keep up the good work, but that was all.

And that hurt, a lot.

Not enough to ruin the day, but enough to put a damper on it. Then again, Haku had not actually seen his parents since he was about eight. Both of them were more married to their careers than to each other in his head. Which meant nearly continuous business trips. Once he was old enough, they mostly left him to his grandmother to raise, something that she did marvellously. In many ways, his grandmother was the one that he considered a parent, not the actual ones he had. When he had a scrape, she would kiss it better. When the bullying at school got too bad, his grandmother would take him down to a candy store or ice cream shop for a treat to dry his tears.

With that in mind, in some of his darker moments, Haku wondered... If his parents died, would he even notice the difference? And he was somewhat disturbed to find that he couldn't exactly come out with a counter to that thought.

So into his thoughts, he didn't notice Kiyohime shift until her face filled his vision,'"Haku-Kun? Are... are you alright?"

Blinking, Haku looked at her for a few moments before giving her a small smile, "Hai, I am. Just... thinking, you know."

Head tilted to the side, his girlfriend frowned, "About what?"

For a few moments, Haku was silent. Finally though, he sighed and shrugged, "My parents and, well... they weren't at my graduation and the last time that I've seen them."

Now frowning, Kiyohime looked at him before pulling him into an embrace, "Haku-Kun... I don't understand your parents. How could they not see the wonderful son that they had? Why? Why ignore you...?" Sniffling, she shook her head, "They don't deserve you."

Gently stroking her head, Haku shook his head, "Who knows? I guess... work is just more important. Maybe one day, they'll realize what they gave up, like that one American song... Man in the Moon with a cat's cradle or whatever it is called. Or maybe they won't, I don't know. But..." Looking down at her, he smiled, "I know that as long as I have you, I don't need them. And it is not like I actually need them anymore, not since Obaa-San's last gift."

All the dragoness did was nod. That... had been a surprise. How Haku's grandmother had left a will that upon his eighteenth birthday, would transfer everything she had to him, also declaring him Head of the Family. It meant that both him and Kiyohime were financially secure. Also, it took care of the worry that if his parents ever did figure out who he was dating, that they would not be able to disown him.

Kiyohime shifting brought Haku back to the present though as he felt her body press against his. Moments later, she cupped his cheeks before kissing him. Eyes closing, the young man simple enjoyed what was happening. As she pulled back, he opened his eyes to see hers glowing, "Hai, as long as we have each other..."

Waking up the next morning, Haku was greeted by a sight that he felt he would never get tired of. Mainly, that of Kiyohime sleeping on his chest. But what truly made it great, in his mind, was the soft smile that was on her face. A smile that showed just how peaceful she found everything.

And, as usual, Haku gained a similar smile on his own face as he chuckled, 'Kiyohime...' With a sigh, he laid back and shook his head some as he continued to gaze on his girlfriend's form. Nothing lustful was in his gaze, but there was still a warmth there for one person. Eyes trailing along her body, they fell on the horns she had. Unlike some, they did not bother him in the slightest.

Rather, he found them just as beautiful as the rest of her.

Gently, he ran the back of his fingers along the skin of her cheek, which made the sleeping dragoness sigh happily. For several minutes, the two of them laid there as he stroked her cheek, content with the world. However, all good things had to come to an end and he gently shook her, "Kiyohime, time to get up. We need to get going to make Hanami for the day."

A grumble escaped her before she opened her sleepy, golden eyes. Almost immediately, a happy smile appeared on her face, "Good morning, Haku-Kun."

Chuckling, Haku brushed some of her hair aside and kissed her forehead, "Good morning, Kiyohime. Time to get up for Hanami."

With a hum, Kiyohime leaned forward and kissed him for several moments, "Mmm... that's right, we're going to see the sakura."

Grinning slightly, Haku nodded, "Exactly. Which means that we should get going."

In reply to that, she sat up and grinned back as she noted his eyes trail along her body, clad in one of his shirts as always, "Just give me some time to wake up, Haku-Kun. And then we can get something to eat."

Licking his dry lips, Haku only nodded. Though his mind drifted to something else entirely even as he felt a bit nervous...

Soon enough though, breakfast was done, the dishes washed, and everything set for the day. Placing her hands on her hips, Kiyohime smiled before grabbing the basket, "Okay, Haku-Kun. Looks like we're ready."

Tossing Kiyohime her jacket, Haku smiled back, "Seems so, Kiyohime. Come on then..." After locking the door behind them, they both got into the small car he had bought with some of the funds from his book sales and they were off...
____________________________________________________

Above where Kiyohime and Haku laid, branches covered in cherry blossoms rustled in the wind. With a soft sigh, the female of the two looked at her boyfriend, "This is nice."

His arms around Kiyohime, Haku chuckled some before kissing her at the base of her horns, provoking a small shudder, "Hai, especially with you here."

Somewhat bemused, Kiyohime giggles a bit, "Aren't you supposed to say something else, Haku-Kun? Like how they cannot compare to me?"

One eyebrow raised, the eighteen year old boy snorted, "Why would I need to say something so evident?" That brought a pretty blush to his girlfriend's cheeks, which made him internally chuckle. Shifting her a little, he hummed into her hair as he continued to look around the small grove filled with cherry blossoms, "It really has been a full year, hasn't it, Kiyohime?"

Lips curling into a happy smile, Kiyohime nodded, "Hai, it has. And it has been a wonderful year as well."

For his part, Haku looked down at his girlfriend before taking a deep breath, "Kiyohime? Could... could you stand?"

Confused, the dragoness looked at him in befuddlement. But despite that, she did as he asked and stood up. When he stood up and took her hands though, she frowned, "Haku-Kun? What's wrong?"

On Haku's face was a somewhat nervous smile, "Well..." Coughing and clearing his throat, he continued, "Well... we have been boyfriend and girlfriend for a full year, Kiyohime. A year of where we could fully show each other the love we had in each of our hearts for the other. A year of warmth and joy... but even before that, we cared for each other for years. Even before we met, we cared. I spoke to you, and you listened. And you saved my life that dark day years ago."

Blinking away tears that gathered in her eyes for some reason, Kiyohime felt her throat choke up a bit, "But you saved me, Haku-Kun. From loneliness and my dark fate... you showed me love."

All that did though was make the eighteen year old shake his head, "Perhaps... but still. One year ago, I found myself making a step towards you. Just one more step, but an important one that found the two of us able to love each other as we felt. And as the cherry blossoms came and left, and have once more returned... it is time for another. And so, Kiyohime..." Getting down on one knee, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small box which he flicked open to reveal a ring, "Would you do me the greatest honour in the world of being my wife?"

For several seconds, Kiyohime boggled and felt like her heart, like the very world around them, had stopped. She could see the ring in the box, made of gold. But more than that, it looked like a dragon that was eating its tail with a blue diamond. Finally, she looked at Haku directly, "B-but... I thought that it was... was impossible for us to be married...?"

Smiling easily, Haku shook his head, "What is marriage? A piece of paper? Or a promise that two people hold within their hearts? This ring represents the promise, Kiyohime. Though the rest of the world might not agree, you are my wife and that is all that matters to me. And, one day, I will hold for you a wedding, but this proclaims to the world my promise to you."

Now shaking, Kiyohime's opened and closed her mouth, "I... I..." Swallowing, she shook her head, "But... I'm a monster, Haku-Kun. A demoness... a beast of vengeance..."

Haku shook his head and stood, "Kiyohime? Transform into your other form." At her look, he smiled, "Please... trust me."

With a slow nod, she did so. Her legs merged and lengthened into a long serpent's body. Meanwhile, her hands grew scaled and the nails transformed into claws. So, too, did her horns lengthen on her head as scales grew up her neck and onto her cheeks while within her mouth, mostly human teeth were replaced by fangs. Now fully in her monstrous form, Kiyohime stared at him, "Haku-Kun..."

Rather than say anything, Haku plucked the ring from the box and set the container aside. Taking her hand, he held the ring before her finger, "The serpent eating itself is a symbol of eternity in many cultures. And thus, here, it represents my eternal promise to you, Kiyohime. I do not care that you are a monster, a demoness. Because you are my Kiyohime, and I am your Haku. That is all that matters." With a deep breath, he continued, "And so, with this ring, I, Kobayashi Haku, hereby take Kiyohime to be my wife. In sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, in the good times and the bad, until death do us part." A slight grin crossed the young man's face, "And I promise to try and find my way back to you even then." His expression once more became serious, "But I will stand with you as your husband. Will you, Kiyohime, take this man before you as your husband?"

Unable to say anything as she began to cry, the "Burning Serpent of the Hidaka" could only nod. But, finally, she spoke, "I-I do... I, Kiyohime do take Kobayashi Haku for my husband. In si-sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, in the good times and the bad, until death do us part..." Giving him a watery smile, she continued, "Though I know even then, he will come back to me because he promised..." With another deep breath, Kiyohime nodded, "But I wi-wi-will stand with you, at your side as y-your wife."

Gently, he slid the ring onto her ring finger, "And thus, do the two of us take the other as their wife and husband, sealing our promise with this ring." Reaching up, Haku cupped her cheek as liquid fire in the form of tears dripped down them. But it did not, would not hurt him as her flames never had and never would. Slowly, he pulled her closer and they touched their foreheads together, "My beautiful wife."

Outright sobbing with pure joy, Kiyohime nodded, "My handsome husband..."

Closing her eyes as he did the same, the two kissed. Her talons lightly scratching his scalp, though not hurting him while his own arms held her close. A kiss of love and joy.

And a promise kept.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

Courtship Display VI

Magical Diet, Tokyo
Spoiler: Naomi in the Diet

Naomi Miyata was not having a good day at all.

First, Councillor Ito had to be talked down first thing in the morning from a brainstorm that involved a planned formal proposal to consolidate all the social service outlays such as food rations, medicine purchases, guard salaries for their own protection and so on under one centralized office for each Reserve.

At least she managed to persuade him to let her personally tour several Reserves as a special investigator to look into the social services and how the funds were being used. If nothing else, that could be spun to buy time and keep his 'bright idea' safely dead and buried until it could be cremated. The fact that she would be missing her husband's birthday was a small concern for keeping the government from imploding, and at least he was a very good man when it came to work coming first.

Perhaps she could persuade the 'officially unofficial' MACUSA representative de Breuil, who she was going to have a nice social dinner with day after tomorrow, to come along and get the damn Yankees off Japan's case to keep this ramshackle structure going for a few more months. MSIA had really come through for her, since the briefing file on de Breuil that Naomi had read highlighted her deep ties to the 'black' part of the American Magical Government in MIB, not least the fact that she was the only child of a former MIB director who was nicknamed "The Black Widow" even in her retirement from her habit of wearing mourning black for de Breuil's century and a half dead father and spinning webs of intrigue over the first half-century of MIB's existence. De Breuil was officially on the books as a senior MACUSA Auror, although she was clearly a spook, considering that she did not clear one law enforcement case 1941-45, and then again 1950-53.

Unfortunately the file was less helpful in providing handles as to persuade her to see things Naomi's way. No family save the aforementioned mother, no known usable vices, eleventh in the Ilvermorny Class of 1872 - although she sure did not look her age! - no romantic interests, independently wealthy thanks to being a daughter of those de Breuils. At least it was noted that she was fluent and literate in Japanese after studying the language in the 1970s and 1980s as a pastime. Naomi's English was somewhat rusty, after all.

Of course, her working lunch was interrupted by charming news. Councilor Hayato's grandson had apparently decided to test whether, as the old political joke went, a Conservative Democratic Values dango could be elected to the Diet from Minato-3. The Councilor, a long time parliamentary titan and arch-conservative firebrand, was going to have an interesting re-election campaign next year since his grandson had gotten arrested with an apparent Yokai teenage sex slave maid and an unregistered Nundu in his house. Plus attempted kidnapping, supposedly to add the girl to his harem as the rumor was spreading.

She had heard of 'interesting alternate lifestyle choices' before, but this was one for the record books. A Nundu, really??!

Naomi couldn't wait to see what kind of hay the papers made of this scandal and how long before they pointed out that just like Councilor Hayato's grandson, his youngest son had been charged with trafficking in underage Yokai girls for the carnal pleasure of himself and some other 'young bloods'. Followed by his 'suicide' in police custody two days into the trial.

Which ugly business had gotten Kiho Mitsue kicked out of the Aurors for daring to be a honest policewoman and blow the whistle, rather that act as if it was business as usual and let the big fish go. Still, since Mitsue was doing superb work for her and her father Shigeru with her background check of her nephew's girlfriend, there truly was a silver lining in her dismissal as an Auror. Naomi was definitely going to recommend her services to her friends, and perhaps hire her to do some informal outreach with any Yokai community leaders that she knew.

Still, this budding scandal would be taking a large chunk of the oxygen out of the room, and perhaps tamp down the press coverage of the failure of the Aurors to find the rumored rogue jorogumo who had escaped Aokigahara with the aid of the notorious international criminal Colombe du Chasteler. Which could only be a good thing, since the Nundu spreading a plague right now would poll better than the Diet with a quarter of the electorate.

Naomi chuckled hollowly at the thought of a Nundu being seated in Minato-3. It would at least make the Nonhuman Policies Parliamentary Committee meetings run faster without the pontification from that windbag.

Hm, where should I make reservations to take de Breuil to dinner? Well she is an American, so Azabu Tansumachi Tenryoan Steakhouse then? Father's five percent quiet investment share in the 'company' that ran it should be good for something, after all.

With that in mind, she checked the Rolodex and called the manager's private number.

Naomi blinked as she hung up the phone. The manager had sounded... disturbed. When she had explained the situation, he promised to do what he could, then she heard him yelling to someone in the background to 'get the damn dead Oni out of the kitchen' before promising that he could find her a table for the day after tomorrow. Still the reservation was made, which was the important thing when a person was trying to schmooze someone that you needed to impress.

--------------------------------

Ibuki House, Kanmasu Housing, Yokosuka Naval Base

Suzume Ibuki smiled at the K'nex set that she had gotten with her paycheck.

Aki-san was a cute child, and she saw a little of a younger her in him. Just like him, she enjoyed puzzles and learning how things operated. Kyudo was another aspect of with that as she chained each step from her breathing, and her spiritual preparation through her draw, her release and her recovery into a whole that was greater than the sum of its parts.

She smiled and touched the box on her desk with one finger. She wished that when she was growing up that she had access to this, but it would have been impossible in the Reserve even if she had the money, since it was non-magical. But with this she could act out one of her secret dreams from her youth through him, since he had opportunities that a young Suzume Ibuki, burdened by being an Okami and with a sickly baby sister, never had.

She sighed. At least Aki-san can enjoy being a child just like Moriko-chan and I sacrificed to give Sachiko what semblance of a happy childhood that we could afford. She barked a laugh as she began to wrap the box for Aki's birthday party ten days from now. At least Sachiko-chan found her dream prince in Kogamaru-san, and Moriko-chan found a good man in Hachiko-kun. Two out of three wasn't bad at all, and if it meant that she watched over her sisters at a distance, scouting for them, supporting them, and protecting their happiness from afar.... Well that is what a Light Carrier did for the rest of her squadron.

With that she stuck her head out to see Sachiko sitting at the kitchen table looking at a book of clothing patterns from the library. "Sachiko-chan, have you seen the clear tape?"

Sachiko nodded and reached for her walker. "I have it in my room on my desk, Suzume-chan. Oh, can I ask a question?"

"I can get it Sachiko-chan, please keep studying. What's the question?" Suzume replied as she headed out of her bedroom door.

Sachiko grinned and held up her book on "How to make the Perfect Cosplay Outfit". "I bet Hachiko-kun would make a better girl than Moriko-chan if we can persuade him to prank her...." She said mischievously.

Suzume's teeth showed in a lupine smirk. "That's genius, Sachiko-chan. Pure genius, just be sure to bring a camera."

 

[darthcourt10]

K9Thefirst1

Savato93 said:
Keeping MSP's soul dew as a paperweight, out in the open? Unlikely. There's every possibility her twisted spirit would try to influence whoever got close to it.​

...Now I'm seeing The One Paperweight being like The One Ring - Kept as a warprize of a beaten foe, only for it to twist and corrupt those around it before it is lost. Then, centuries later RP's spirit is stirring, and The Paperweight seeks to rejoin it's mistress...

Harry Leferts said:
*Cocks eyebrow* So... he too, can confused guys as to their sexuality?​

Eh, as we saw in the first or second snippet, Hachiko isn't likely to go for it, no matter how much his future in-laws plead.

"Stop teasing me! I'm a boy dammit!" *most assuredly masculine tears twinkle like bishojo diamonds as he ineffectually slaps his limp-wristed fists at his sister-in-law, Moriko cuddles her boyfriend in comfort, glaring at Suzume and Sachiko*

Now that... could be very interesting...​

Hmmm....
------

Jin's capacity to Give a Fuck, she had found, was well and truly exhausted. Many years would her Fuck Fields need to be left fallow before she could attempt to harvest more. Her mission from Lord Ryujin to invite Kiyohime - yes, that Kiyohime - to next year's Kami-Con was odd enough. Shiromizu came too naturally enough, odds were good that she would need to bring newly manifested into the fold too in time.

The other dragon was not at all what Jin was expecting. Rather than a crazy bitch with a hate-on for priests, she found a girl with horns happy to play Waifu for a guy who seemed nice enough, if maybe a bit boring. Still, that made Jin's mission all the simpler - just tell her to show up at the Izumo shrine next summer, show Shiromizu the sights, then hop on the next overnight train back to Yokosuka. Then came the yelling.

"ALL HAIL THE DARK ONE! Terrible Be Her Wrath, black as The Abyss itself!"

Somehow, what looked to be a sizable collection of her Cultists had followed them.

"ALL HAIL THE FIERY ONE! Whose very ire consumes all FOOLISH enough to draw her gaze!"

And they had friends, going by the Re-Class and collection of other Hobo Abyssals. Although these losers liked to mount lit candles on their heads and shoulders like those guys from Dark Souls.

"Senpai?"

"I know."

"ALL HAIL THE WIND HOWLER!" proclaimed an Abyssal Jin would be informed was a Light Carrier Princess, who seemed to have had her eyes gouged out going by the gaze wrapped around her head, and seemed to have a need for repairs going by her rigging, using a Wo-class' cane altered to be some sort of Shinto priest's staff, going by the rings of wire on it, "She in the guise of a Bird in the guise of a woman! Whose Chariot spits Brimstone and whose road is the very Wind of Her breath!"

"They've multiplied."

"I know."

"ALL PRAISES BE TO THE BEAST OF THE EARTH!" and oh look, there was another group, this one lead by a Ru-Class, who had replaced her turrets for saplings and a stump, with a pidgeon looking most content inside a notch therein, "She of Nine-Tails, whose very stare can suck the souls from all who have gained her Wrath and Fury!"

What followed was a series of proclamations of their chosen gods' names and abilities. Any amusement Jin got from the strong likelihood that their 'Wind Howler' was in fact Ai was soon enough swallowed up by annoyance at how loud the group had gotten. And, against her better judgement, Jin scolded them.

"Hey ASS HATS! Either do something productive or FUCK OFF!"

"The Dark One has spoken!" spake the Re-Class priestess of The Cult of The Dark One.

Jin muttered an 'oh fuck' through her palm at the sounds of awe coming from the collection of Abyssals.

"Come sisters! If our goddess wishes us to not be idle in our worship, then we are to comply!"

"In that case," answered another cultist Jin suspected was the Re's Number Two, "then I say we conference with these Worshipers of foreign gods, to decide if they are our friends or if they are base blasphemers!"

There was a pause, then the Re-Class coated in melted candle wax stepped forward.

"In that case, if thy petition be in good faith, then my sisters, and I, the Bearer of The Sacred Fire, shall gladly sit and reveal unto ye the Glories of The Fiery One!"

"Agreed!" said the Abyssal in charge of the wind bag. And, true enough, she was blind, unless she was looking in the wrong direction for laughs, "The Wind Howler's Fury is a horror to behold! Therefore, it is the Mercy of this one, the Zephyr Priestess, that sees you all educated, lest you be caught in her jaws!"

Then the Ru-Class stomped on the ground, which startled the dumb bird in her tree stump, but it just rustled its feathers and sat back down.

"The Beast of the Earth did warn my Late Princess against continuing her attacks on the Meat Bags during The Days of Flame. In failing to heed this offer of mercy, she and many of my sisters were slain without a second thought. If one who matches her Power speaks with the same ends in mind, then I too shall submit to rounds of talk and listening."

"Senpai?"

"Fuck it. Let's go Shiromizu-chan, the faster we talk to Kiyohime the faster we can lose these loonies..."

And thus was the First Profane Council held, which would see the believers be revealed by Divine Inspiration to be sisters under The Elementals of Wrath... All Hail the Elemental Goddesses - The Sacred Text, 1st Edition, Potter Printing House, (c)2066
------

Not sure how Shiromizu becomes known as The Pure One, goddess of Void, but that 'revelation' can likely come to this Unified Cult at a later date I suppose. I just hope that Lord K likes this enough to include it.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

Pas de Deux for Rapier and Tanto(Pas de Deux=Two Dancers)

Castle Moulbaix, Belgium
Spoiler: Fudo and Colombe

Colombe d'Aubigny-Muramasa du Chasteler slammed into the stone wall of her ancestral castle's salle d'armes(weapons room) face-first with bone-crushing force. The stabbing pain in her chest from her shattered ribs felt like a cannonball had just hit her through her shield spells.

Or in this case a Qi-enhanced roundhouse kick from Masamune-no-Fudo.

Colombe flexed her hidden left hand in a specific pattern as she spat teeth out from her ruined mouth. As Fudo closed for the kill point-first, the Muramasa suddenly spun with superhuman speed, kicking off the scorched and cratered stone wall to leave only one thing in the path of the Masamune's fury filled snarling face.

A fist glowing too bright to see with the energies of the Bijalee Kee Mutthee(fist of power) lightning punch spell that Colombe had leaned two and a half centuries prior from a blind guru needing a guide to the Ganges in far-distant India.

The detonation of energies as her fist connected with Fudo's nose left Colombe with spots in front of her eyes, more than half deafened, and wobbling on her feet as she staggered like an exhausted drunk. Fudo had it worse, being blown all the way to the far end of the salle(room) to slam into a fresh crater in the wall and topple to one hand and her knees.

Gold eyes that could barely see through her blood-covered cut and bruised swollen face narrowed on the rapier as the Masamune pulled herself to her feet.

Almost have her. Enough power left for one good shot....

Colombe began to gasp out a spell, her point moving in precise arcs as the shattered stones around her levitated and with a crack disintegrated into fine, razor-sharp chunks of gravel. She chanted gutturally in Arabic as the dove engraving on her scorched, chipped and battered rapier shifted from white to a rainbow glow and grew in intensity.

"Min rabi Alkhali, 'adeuk..."

Fudo shook her head to clear the ringing in her ears and gestured in turn with her incandescently blazing blade as the tattoo of Fudo Myoo on her back began to move His hands in a Buddhist mudra to gather and concentrate spiritual energies. She began to chant from the Kongō-kyō, the Shingon Buddhist translation of the Diamond Sutra, as a fivefold mandala of magical energies began to cycle around her avatar.

"Subete no jōken-tsuki genshō yume, gensō, awa, kage..."

The stones around Colombe suddenly spiraled in a howling deafening tornado of air as the rapier levitated from the air pressure. Her entire blade was glowing rainbow colors as the energies that she was invoking spiraled and built.

"Laqad 'ursil Allah afat al'ard min kli sharin..."

With a thunderous roar a flaming aura surrounded the Masamune. Her eyes were replaced with burning white hot flames as she continued to chant and the mandalas accelerated their spiral as Fudo My'oo's Blade continued the mudras to harness her link to the Divine..

"Ro matawa inazuma no senkō no yō ni. Shitagatte, wareware wa sorera o chikaku shimasu..."

As if obeying an invisible signal by an unseen referee the rapier's blade lunged to point at Fudo at the exact moment that the tanto slashed out to point at Colombe.

"Gensō Setsudan Ken!!" "Shifrat Aljini al'Awal!!"

The resulting detonation shook Castle Moulbaix to the foundations.

---------------------------------------

In the attics Captain Jacklyn Fox-Muramasa froze and took a deep breath at the thunderclap shaking the castle. Slowly she looked at the innocent children playing with the 'pirate cutlasses' that she had carved out of some Styrofoam packing sheets in one of the trunks which the 'Fujii Pirates' had opened and plundered (resulting in a brace of inerted flintlock pistols and some period clothes that the giggling imps had promptly worn).

She swallowed around the lump in her throat and schooled her voice to steadiness, the same she had done when giving orders to her crew in a Caribbean hurricane in 1748. Any sign of panic would have killed them all, and so it was today. Just as it had been in August 1942 when USS Foxfish was getting brutally hammered for hours by the depth charges of a quartet of Japanese destroyers who 'objected' to her attack on their convoy.

The Captain was the loneliest man aboard ship for a reason, after all.

Her lips quirked and she spoke with a confidence that she did not feel. "Avast me hearties, I heard thunder from outside. It's foul weather brewin' and a wise pirate will listen to her Captain tell a sea yarn to pass the time while it blows over."

As the young Yokai sat on either side of their big sister, Aomi Sato sat next to Jackie and hugged her around the waist. She was not good for much, she thought, a young orphaned country girl who had been trapped and enslaved by her dreams of fame as an idol in the big city, but she could give what reassurance she could.

Perhaps it might be enough.

---------------------------------------

In Claire du Chasteler's room the piano paused from her rendition of Western themes at the sound of the explosion. As the silence afterward lingered, Delilah walked over to Claire and gently hugged her niece. Numbly, Claire allowed herself to be led to the bed and hugged to Delilah's bosom.

As she cried into her aunt's bosom, and Delilah's worried tears fell onto her head, the now unattended grand piano began to softly play the Third Movement of Chopin's 35th Sonata.
Spoiler: Claire's Worry

Delilah gently patted Claire's head and back as the piano clung to her. All she could do was wait, pray, and listen to the heart-rending music that said in its own way what her niece had trouble expressing with words.

---------------------------------------

Downstairs in the Billiard Room Kasuyu broke off his storytelling about Colombe's fight against the Dark Lord that had enslaved him in the Congo. Ying bit her lip and her fists clenched.

Involuntarily both sets of eyes went to the entrance hall where Ehren and Toku stood vigil in front of the sealed door.

Ying picked up her chair and carried it to where she could look into the hall. She then sat down and looked across the hall at the door to the salle d'armes.

For an eternity all was still and quiet.
Spoiler: Ying's Doubts

A massive hand on her shoulder caused her to start and look up at the African axe tsukumogami standing next to her. Softly she whispered, "I could have prevented this you know. But I chose to heal Fudo, chose to bring her here. I am responsible for the outcome of this duel. Did I do the right thing?"

The Axe stood quietly then sighed with a rumble. In his deep, smooth voice he responded, "Mercy is never a mistake, save to the merciless."

Wei Ying, oldest daughter of Colombe du Chasteler, placed her hand over his and squeezed. "Xiè xiè nín de bāng zhù,"(thank you for your help) she whispered her thanks in Mandarin Chinese.

---------------------------------------

Masamune-no-Tokunotakai prayed. Unlike everyone else in the castle, she knew deep down that when the door opened, that no matter who the victor was, she would mourn the vanquished.

For she would lose someone she loved deeply and sincerely. She would never see that person again, and have to live with the awful might-have-beens.

Is this how Fudo felt year after year after Gorōta Tokugawa passed away in the Pacific War?

Is this how Colombe du Chasteler felt as she mourned her Papa, Lyra and Ian Potter, and her blood family?

Is this what Hachiman-dono meant when he warned me that if I left the shrine that the innocent shrine priestess that departed would be lost forever?

For I have taken a life to save my Co-chan. I have experienced human evil and cruelty in the tale of Miho Fujii. I am no longer what I once was, for I have passed through a door that can never be reopened.

Tokunotakai looked down at Ehren du Chasteler as the dagger's spirit hugged her around the waist as they stood side by side.

Her arm moved to hug the dagger around the shoulders and with an exhalation of breath that sounded suspiciously like a muffled sob, Ehren burrowed into her side.

Co-chan. If you have fallen, I swear that I shall do what I can to be there for your daughters and sisters. I am a pale reflection of your love and care for family, but I shall do my utmost to achieve the standard that you set.

Fudo-nee. If you are no more, I swear that I shall do my best to honor your spirit by assisting the Owari Tokugawas that you served so long and so faithfully. You are a true hero, Sister, and while all heroes fall one by one in time, the deeds they do live on in the memories of those who they touch. So shall it be with you and I.

So I, Masamune-no-Tokunotakai, the Masamune of the Warrior's Virtues, Consecrated of Hachiman, swear upon my honor and my very soul.

Ehren gasped as the wards on the sealed door flickered and faded one by one. Her arms tightened around Toku's waist as the click of the lock sounded.
Spoiler: A Debt Of Honor Paid In Blood

The door swung open and thick sulferous black smoke billowed forth.

Was that...?

Movement in the cloud of smoke.

A bloody hand with broken fingers waved smoke from her face as a figure slowly limped through the door on a clearly shattered left leg with her left arm hanging limp.

"Well I think that settles THAT...." An aristocratic French voice laced with smug satisfaction.

"Like Jigoku(hell) it does! Once I heal up I demand a rematch!" A Japanese voice with the fires of divine wrath simmering under the surface.

A second figure dragging herself painfully through the door with a death grip on the wall to keep her upright.

"Next time don't come here low on energy from a minor pissing match with the yakuza then. Not my fault that you decided to fight me while low on power, Masamune." Colombe snarled as she turned her scorched and burned face to survey Fudo from her good right eye. "If you were a little less hotheaded and rash and prepared properly at full strength, you might have taken me. Might."

"Big words, Muramasa." Fudo wheezed out, looking like someone had run her avatar through a rock crusher. "Don't spend too much energy in bedplay with Toku-chan and get lazy and fat, because I'll channel Musashi-chan and use a bokken to beat the fat out of your ass. I'll give you this, at least unlike your kin, you are no coward, although it is probably because you are too dumb to run when you are outclassed!"

Colombe snorted in response and nearly collapsed. Ehren rushed to her mother's side and supported her. Meanwhile Toku sprinted to catch Fudo before her sister crashed to the floor.

"Wie gehts(How's it going), Ehren? You ought to see Fudo-san," Colombe gave a smug smirk at her daughter, "oh wait, you can."

Ying hurried across the floor to support Colombe on the other side as Kasuyu followed with a medical satchel.

"Kasuyu, fix Masamune Divine Fury first so she doesn't complain about how thoroughly I stomped her. Since I probably knocked her around enough to not know which end is up, we can put her up in Toku's room until she can figure out which direction home is." Colombe hissed out as she coughed up more blood.

Fudo gave Colombe a flat stare as Toku prevented her from crashing to the floor. "Just for that the next time you are in Tokyo, I'll teach a gaijin Muramasa rapier like you how to do proper hospitality. Since I managed to pound some respect through your thick skull, it will be easy to hammer it home!"

"Let me have my daughter fix my legal trouble and I might take you up on that then. Just to prove you wro---" Colombe's voice broke and she wheezed as Ehren accidentally touched her shattered ribcage. "Easy there, Ehren! Mutti ist sehr verletzt."(Mom is very hurt.)

A crystal blue-eye winked as Colombe's head drooped, to be returned by an eye of seething molten gold.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

Pas De Sextet for Butter and Bread Knives (Pas De Sextet = A Dance for Six)

Castle Moulbaix, Belgium
Spoiler: Kenshō

Masamune-no-Fudo gasped in pain as she was carried upstairs by her sister Tokunotakai.

A small, silent, hidden part of herself remembered the last time that Toku had carried her like this.

She realized with a start that the physical pain that she was feeling was greater than in 1945, since she had been only unable to walk then with her hands and feet burned to the bone in the firebombing from her inadequate attempts to save everyone who she could. But the far greater emotional pain that she had been in that dreadful night, seeing Gorota Tokugawa's face in everyone who she had failed to save from the flames, hearing his voice in every scream for help and mercy from the Kami as the world burned around her was muted now.

Curious.

She could barely remember a time when the memory of her lost love, that wonderful, infuriating, noble, honorable man had not tormented her, reminding her that she was imperfect, flawed, unworthy. Every time she had failed to accomplish something, that memory resurfaced and ripped further bleeding chunks from her spirit.

But not this time.

Instead, as she had laid there in a slowly growing pool of her own blood after Colombe's spell had slammed kilograms of sharpened granite shrapnel into her at supersonic speed, too exhausted to do anything but gasp for air and quietly bleed on the scorched and shattered stone, insight had come to her with the sudden flash of Fudo My'oo's blade cleaving through the illusions of existence to the fundamental truths within.

There was no dishonor in defeat when one gave her utmost efforts in a worthy cause. Even a hero of legend would face a foe one day that he could not overcome, but the heroism was in the attempt despite knowing the doomed outcome in advance.

For if there was dishonor in that defeat, than would not Gorota's own honorable death fighting an impossible foe to overcome to protect her have not been equally dishonorable?

She knew deep down in her steel core that he would never have flagged, never have faltered, and would have had his last thought be of her before the darkness took him from her. But also, that his willing sacrifice was just that. A sacrifice for her, for as Toku had warned her and then as Gorota had learned on the battlefield, one warrior, no matter how filled with fighting spirit, could only fight against multiple foes of equal determination and greater strength for so long and no longer.

And if he had not sacrificed himself on Saipan to save her, to pry that first crack open in her armor of anger and misguided fury, then she could not have accepted Toku-chan's unconditional sisterly love truly in 1945. Love that saved her, that she was unworthy of, but love that she had received anyway. Love that she received when she admitted, as painfully and hesitantly as she had, that she was wrong, blinded by her arrogant self-righteousness before the pain of his loss cleft through the illusions of her existence on the Wheel of Suffering and Rebirth to give her a chance to be liberated from her shackles of dukkha and samsara and achieve nirvana.

A chance which led her to this moment, bleeding out on the floor of du Chasteler's castle gasping for breath.

Somehow that thought gave her strength that she never knew that she had to flop her head the other way and stare at the crater in the wall where the Illusion-Severing Sword's strike had thrown the limp body of the Muramasa rapier.

A chance that would depend on her actions.

With that she coughed, feeling fresh agonies spread through her body as things popped and moved unpleasantly and croaked out. "Du Chasteler-san?"

A wheeze from the far end of the smoke-filled room as a equally bloody and battered rapier's avatar focused on the Fudo-shaped blur vaguely in the direction of the voice. "Quoi?"(what)

"If you even think of hurting Toku-chan..." Fudo paused to spit out more blood, "...I won't hold back then. You're just lucky you caught me the day after putting down a dozen Yakuza wizards."

A pained gasp as Colombe slowly raised her head. "Lucky for you that I'd sooner..." A yelp followed by a string of incomprehensible words that from the tone of them were heartfelt pained curses, "...snap my blade than harm one hair on To-chan's head. And killing you would make To-chan unhappy."

Fudo felt a bubble of painful laughter swell within her at what was said and unsaid in this moment of understanding. "I don't know what she sees in you, du Chasteler-san." She then emitted a few curses of her own as her effort to focus on Colombe sent pain shooting down her spine. "You just don't know when to leave good enough alone." Toku was right, she has the same spirit as a true samurai. Pity that she was born here and to a Muramasa.

Colombe gave a ghastly chuckle. "So, call this a honorable draw or do I need to come over there and give you the coup de grâce?" She made a motion in that direction and screamed in agony, "Merde(shit) that's broken!"

Fudo let the pained laughter out, "Funny, once I caught my breath, I was going to crawl over there and take that stubborn head of yours, du Chasteler-san. Toku-chan would be a little upset when I presented it to her as a trophy, though, so I'll take the draw this time until the rematch."

"I look forward to the rematch." A thoughtful pause, "I should have enough energy left to throw a healing spell on you if you need help to the door once I pull it from the wards and heal myself. No sense in you dying on me before the rematch"

The grudging sincere respect in Colombe's voice warmed Fudo and made her pain ease slightly. "I won't say no. This once, du Chasteler-san."

"I won't tell a soul." Colombe gasped out a spell and the first ward symbol faded....

Fudo blinked and returned to herself as Toku opened the door to a plain and spartan bedroom. She immediately identified the flower arrangement in Toku's favorite black enameled vase with a pair of white cranes as her sister's eye for color and harmony.
Spoiler: Toku's Vase


Toku laid her down on a clearly new futon and began to tend to her injuries after taking her battered and damaged true self to the polished pine that was Toku's second-best swordrack. Fudo focused on her sister's face, seeing the slight concerned wrinkle of her brow, and sharper focus in her blue-green eyes. Just like at the Hachimangu in 1945 as Toku-chan nursed her back to health.

It was secretly reassuring that her attempt to kill her sister's lover had strained but had not snapped her sister's feelings for her.

"Fudo-nee." Toku spoke quietly as she surveyed an assortment of potions from the medical kit.

"What is it Toku-chan?" Fudo gasped out, feeling a refreshing numbness as the healing potions went to work. In the distance past the closed door there was a thunder of running feet.

"We need to talk about... certain matters." Her sister turned with a resolute look in her eyes.

Fudo swallowed and spoke slowly. "Colombe du Chasteler... I do not like her. I may never like her. But in there... she proved that she may one day be worthy of your steel. When she becomes worthy, I wish you happiness with her, for your sake. Do not make me regret this decision."

Toku gave Fudo an unreadable look, and then nodded. "She would not be Chosen by Hachiman as I am if she was unworthy."

Fudo gasped, "I never suspected that she..."

Toku knelt gracefully beside her sister's body and took Fudo's newly bandaged hand in both of hers. "Indeed you did not, Fudo-nee. That is the tragedy of our sisterhood. None of us truly see clearly. Before I left for Fujiyama, I had tea with both Kotegiri-oneesama and Honjo-oneesama. They commented that it was too long that we had shared tea, had spoken as sisters, and they were right. Kotegiri-oneesama was shocked to her very core that I had changed so greatly from the young blade that she thought that she knew, that I had found love in the embrace of another spirit when I discovered a Muramasa that I found worthy of my heart."

Toku stared into Fudo's shocked eyes, "I also petitioned Hachiman-dono to alter my duties so I could venture outside the Shrine. When we spoke, He informed me that I was at grievous fault." Toku's voice grew sad as tears trickled from her eyes and Fudo stared in naked shock as she continued. "In my dedication to duty, no, what I thought was my duty as his Chosen, I had lain idle rather than perform His will in the world outside the Shrine as He intended for me. Furthermore, this was not the first time that I had fallen short and failed Him."

Faintly, Fudo heard a sudden pop of Apparation. She paid it no mind as she listened to her sister's confession. "In 1864 when Colombe and I first met, I had fallen far from the Way, and needed my defeat at the hands of a samurai in her innermost spirit who matched my skill and power and had superior understanding of the Way of Bushido to set me straight. Truly, I was what Co-chan called Miko Punchable Face then, and it was only by her example and my humiliation at her hands that I found myself again and discovered the Way."

Toku leaned forward and stared into Fudo's eyes. "If I can make such terrible mistakes in my judgement and vision and have to accept correction, even harsh correction. If Kotegiri-nee and Honjo-nee can be so blind as to not see a young girl turn into a maiden who finds a Muramasa that she determines is worthy of her love. Can not the Masamune of Fudo My'oo, my beloved sister, see with equally clouded sight, just as all our family does?"

Fudo's mind whirled at the revelation that Toku... and Honjo... and Kotegiri herself... were all imperfect. She blinked as the half-noticed at the time memory of Toku requesting a dinner outing struck her consciousness. "So that is why you wished to meet me for dinner." She stated half to herself.

Toku's lips twitched and she nodded serenely, "Indeed, so we could have this talk. Unfortunately, Fate and the kami had other plans for me. Co-chan and I were to climb Mount Fuji before then so I could fulfill my childhood dream. What resulted from that showed that the Lord of Eight Banners had other plans for us." Toku's face became sad.

Fudo licked her battered lips. "What happened? I heard about Aokigahara and the jorogumo du Chasteler-san broke out..."

Toku's eyes flashed fire as her lips thinned and her face filled with a serenely controlled righteous fury at the mention of the Aokigahara Reserve. "Indeed, you should know what happened. It began when Konohananosakuya-hime advised us to take the trail down from Hakusandake Peak when we visited her shrine atop Fuji-san...."

-------------------------------------------

Across the hall, Colombe du Chasteler groaned in relief as Ehren and Ying lowered her bandaged avatar into her bed. She looked over at her oldest and youngest daughter and gave a weak smile. "Now if one of you can get Claire we can have that overdue family reunion."

Ehren snapped to attention and barked out. "Zu Befehl, Mutti!"(At your command, mom!) With that she spun on her heel and marched out of the bedroom.

Ying watched her go, then turned to her father. "Is she always like that?" She asked.

Colombe nodded, "She is, and you get used to her. Eventually. Ehren is..." Colombe trailed off and thought, "I'm perhaps not the best person to explain. Your little sister is the way that she is because of my mistakes with her father." Colombe shrugged with a pained hiss. "Some decades my whole life has been a series of mistakes, such as abandoning you and your mother accidentally. Doesn't change the fact that I let family down."

The sound of running footsteps came from the hall. "Better get away from the door, over by my standing wall screen will be safe."

"MOTHER!!" The door burst open and Claire rushed inside, jumping on the bed and hugging Colombe. "You'reOKIwassoworried..."

Colombe gasped in agony as the piano spirit squeezed her and returned the hug with her one good arm. "I love you too, Claire. But Mommy is very sore and hurty. Give me a kiss someplace with no bandages or bruises and then summon yourself and play me some music?"

Claire complied with a smooch to Colombe's right temple and then hopped off the bed. Ying watched the proceedings with a shocked expression. As Claire moved to an open space in the room and began to glow gold, the dao moved over and whispered. "She acts younger than she looks."

Colombe gave a fond smile and whispered back. "And I wouldn't change her for the world. Claire is the light of our lives. Ahh... I hope that you like piano music."

"Actually, I do." Ying admitted and then paused as with a bang of displaced air a grand piano appeared in front of Claire. "That wall screen is Chinese?"

Colombe nodded and spoke with a sad expression in her eyes, "From the Summer Palace in 1860, yes. I managed to save it from the flames, but it was a drop of water in the ocean. So much beauty lost..."

Ying glanced at the door as Ehren walked inside carrying a carved walnut arm chair, tensing slightly.
Spoiler: Ehren's Chair

Ying stared at the ornately hand-carved chair as Ehren set it down next to Colombe's bed. Colombe gave a faint smile. "That was a gift from Johann Potter of the German Branch to his cousin Ida-Helene du Chasteler on her fifteenth birthday in 1820 as part of a set. When Ehren manifested, Kasuyu and I raided the attics and brought down her furniture to furnish Ehren's room."
Spoiler: Claire Serenades Mother

Claire cracked her knuckles and began to play softly.

Ehren nodded, sitting stiffly upright in her chair after closing the door. "Ja. It is quite sufficient for my needs and fine craftsmanship in the style of the Schwartzwald.(Black Forest)"

Ying pulled an upholstered white oak Louis XV armchair from next to Colombe's small vanity to sit across the bed from Ehren. "I see. So... I suppose introductions are in order. I am the eldest daughter of Mei Yuying, a huli jing fox spirit from China who Father... Colombe saved from the Red Turban Taiping rebels plaguing Southern China in the 1850s. Mother is well and passes along her best wishes to you, Father. She would like to talk at some point, to thank you for helping her establish her own life."

Colombe spoke with a distant look, staring at the wall screen. "That is good to hear. I looked for her in 1866 when I passed through San Francisco, but according to what I could dig up, she married a mining foreman, was pregnant with twins by him, and had left with him in search of another gold strike. That would have been you?"

Ying nodded, "To hide ourselves from anyone from the Middle Kingdom still pursuing Mother, she married into the Wei family, and got a divination that our wealth would be made in Canada. Plus MACUSA is not the most open society for non-humans, and the 1850s were very bad. So we moved north to Victoria, where my eldest half-brother was born eight months after me. I was called his twin growing up, although Mother knew from the start that I was yours." She twirled a lock of her shoulder-length dark blonde hair around a finger. "The blonde hair was the obvious sign."

Colombe gave a pained laugh and Ehren a lip twitch. "Indeed, Daughter. Us du Chastelers all have blonde hair, except Claire because she's our special Piano sister." Claire trilled a giggle with a series of quick high notes before shifting into another song. "Del said that you were her classmate?"

Ying grinned smugly and leaned forward. "Indeed so, number ten in Ilvermorny's Class of 1872, Del was eleventh. Oh I have some stories to tell about our misspent youth." Her eyes flicked to Ehren, who was no longer straight-backed with a steel rod in her spine but leaning forward very slightly with a well-concealed flicker of interest in her cool gaze. Well. well, my Ice Queen little sister might just thaw after all.... "It was Second Year when we cooperated on our first prank. Perceval Graves of Horned Serpent House had jinxed Louise Winona, Del's best friend and my partner in Herbology with the Dancing-Feet Spell while calling her a 'stupid savage' to her face. Louise was a really sweet girl and later became one of my best friends in school; her and Maddie made up our little group, looking back on things. So I headed down to the library to find a way to get Perceval back for what he did to her...."

Author's Note: I do hope this helps explain Fudo's relationship shifting