Four Hundred And Six
“Have you been to many festivals?” I asked Daiyu, who rely shook her head.
“No, I had little ti for such things, nor were there such in the halls of the Incorruptible Jade…” she paused, considering. “No, perhaps there was.” As she looked around at the bustling festivities, a long-nosed Tengu mask replica on one side of her head, she considered it. “The Sect halls had those who could not Cultivate, servants, family mbers who had no talents, farrs and craftsn and their families. I have co to realise, one cannot survive purely though pursuing the peak of Cultivation. Experiencing life strengthens one’s will.” Her small hand was clutched in mine. “No, they likely did hold such events, seeking joy in the lonely mountains of Shaanxi. Such word never reached my ears, or those of us who held ourselves proud and aloof in the halls of our Sect.”
At seeing the faintly lancholic look on her face, I pulled her close. “It’s fine.” I assured her. “That just ans you have more to experience now.” I promised her. “Look around. Did you imagine you’d be at a Tengu festival?”
“It is more unbelievable that I would be here with my Dao Companion.” Her expression changed to a small smile. “I thank you for your efforts to console . We should enjoy ourselves. After all, I do not have long before I must hand you over to the next girl.” Her smile widened at my slight discomfort.
Yeah, it was Haru-san’s idea. And not a bad one… Since there was nothing we could do until the festival was over, and I was here with four of my won, Haru-san suggested I spend so ti with each of them. At the sharp gleams in their eyes at that, I realised refusing would be a foolish choice, so after a heated ga of rock-paper-scissors, the order was decided, and Daiyu was first. I was still a little wary of the whole situation, but with Prince Shōtoku assuring that Tarōbō and his Tengu wouldn’t be so base as to profane their ceremonies with treachery, I relented and decided to enjoy myself, though I did warn the others to stay together and keep alert.
“In that case, is there anything you’d like to see? You might as well take advantage of this to experience what festivals are like, because back on the Material, you’ll be going to them with for many years to co.” I said gallantly, and her face reddened slightly, and her hand in mine tightened its grip.
“I am happy just seeing new things. I was too closed away, in my own world. Now, I have already achieved more than I ever believed possible.” She said. “So tell , is this what those you have been to are like?”
Looking around at the streets of mount Atago, I frowned. Is it? There are definitely similarities… The paper lantern glowing in a multitude of clouds overhanging the streets, the stalls, the revellers wearing masks… though the Tengu masks here are worn over the face, not at the side of their heads, and they seem to wear them all the ti… “Sure, there’s a lot that is the sa.” I admitted. “Which is strange. Or is it? I suppose our traditions had to co from sowhere. But the stalls aren’t the sa.” Here there were no festival staples like teriyaki, noodles or takoyaki, the food was all variations on roast pork, with a variety of styles and sauces, and the drinks were all sake, though so sweet low-alcohol amazake was also sold.
“Hungry?” I asked, and Daiyu nodded, so I went to a stall selling skewers. The Tengu behind it was wearing a yukata, modified so the wings could fit out the back. “Uh… what money do you take?” I asked, and the Tengu shrugged.
“We have no use for such trivial things. Tonight we celebrate the divine fla and call upon fortune before our champions are chosen. Eat, be rry, visitors.” He pressed the fragrant skewers, still piping hot into my free hand, and I grinned as I passed one to Daiyu. Champions, huh?
“I see. Thank you for your gracious hospitality. When our alliance is concluded and you can visit my Territory, you simply must check out the café on top of our great Tree. You can sample our delicacies. Mmm, this is quite good.” I said, taking a bite. Beside , Daiyu was eating quietly and daintily, through from the set of her face I could tell she was enjoying it. Up above fireworks were exploding constantly, though the noise of them was much reduced compared to the Material, and the blooms of light in nurous brilliant colours far brighter.
“Normally the fireworks are at the end.” I said to Daiyu, rembering when Eri had confessed to . “It’s the climax, and seen as rather romantic. Ask Eri if you want to know more about that.”
“Oh, I see. I shall do that.” Daiyu licked her fingers, before flushing a little, embarrassed. “I could use sothing to drink, the at was rich indeed.”
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“That Shiro. Take what she says with a pinch of salt.” I laughed. “But… is Haanōbō really so much weaker than you three?” I asked seriously. “She had so skill, her icy water wasn’t that bad. Besides, as you’ll see during the challenges, losing to is no sha.”
That seed to shock the Tengu, and after a mont, he let out a gale of bitter laughter. “Your arrogance is refreshing. I look forward to humbling you. No, Haanōbō of the North is not weak. Hence why we are so disappointed. Failure due to arrogance is the worst kind of failure.”
“I don’t like that. We all make mistakes, we all lose sotis. If we can learn from it, it doesn’t stay a failure. Anyway, I’m on a date right now, so we’ll take our leave.” With that we left Arangbō behind, strolling through the festival.
“What do you think the challenges are?” Natsumi asked, curious. “If it is combat, Motoko, Daiyu and I would all wish to take part.”
“Maybe, so sort of mock combat seems likely. But for now…” I smiled at her. “Want to grab so more sake?”
“I’d like that.” Natsumi nodded. “But only one mug. We can share again.” The rosy blush of her cheeks shone as bright as the flas all around us…
********
“Our festivals at Shirohebizumi don’t hold up to this…” Kana said, waving the burning torch she had been given.
“So?” I said, raising an eyebrow. “For soone who claid you never cared about your shrine, you go about comparing it to every other one we visit.”
“A gentleman wouldn’t point that out.” Kana pouted cutely, before winking. “But maybe I’m just doing it so you’ll comfort ? I’m a sly girl like that.”
“If so, I don’t mind.” I agreed. “You are very relaxing to be with, so a little flattery is no problem.”
“Damn…” she puffed out her cheeks. “I know I’m cute, I spent years purposely making myself that way. But I’m more than just that, you know…” Around us, Tengu were dancing and waving their touches, as overhead more fireworks exploded. “… after all, I accepted Kṣitigarbha’s Favour.”
“You did.” I agreed. “But I don’t see why you can’t be fun and cute, as well as driven and ambitious. Besides, we’re dating, so… a festival date is just classic, no?”
“Yeah, and I suppose doing it at Shirohebizumi would be boring as hell.” She agreed. “So, since it’s a date…” she smiled adorably. “… why not treat to so food and feed ? Although nothing probably cos close to the joy you had giving a piggyback up those stairs. I know you were feeling up my ass. And I know it’s a good one. I exercise and watch my diet so I always look killer in jeans.”
“Guilty as charged.” I said, and she blushed, which amused , the gap between her forthright, flirty outside and her rather inexperienced inner self charming. “But if your boyfriend can’t grope you a little, who can?”
“Oh you!” she pounded gently with her fist, so as not to hurt her hand. She them offered the free hand, which I took. “I saw you holding hands with Daiyu and Natsumi. Now you have to feed , my hands are both full.” She gestured with the torch happily. “As for groping … I’m not an easy girl. A few more dates first, Akio.”
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“You’re a good friend to her.” I said, smiling warmly. “But that cloth looks awkward, let carry it.”
“Of course. A gentleman should.” She agreed. “Normally, I hate such unwritten rules. I am hardly a weak flower, unable to bear weight heavier than chopsticks. But I know you an it as a true courtesy, not a reflection on as a person, as a warrior. I love that.” Her face flushed as she said the words. “I am still not overly used to talking of love. If I do not say it often enough, do not think I am lacking in care. I am simply… not used to expecting a marriage of love, rather than convenience.”
“I get it.” I stroked her hair as I tucked the heavy bundle of cloth under one arm. “I struggled at first too. Arranged marriage isn’t ever sothing I thought would be a part of my life.”
“But you do not regret it?” Motoko said, staring up at the fireworks. So Tengu were flying between the blasts, dodging the explosions of brilliant light to the whooping cheers and applause of the drunken and rowdy masked Tengu below.
“No. I don’t. However it started, it’s how it finishes that counts, and to be honest, if I saw another man making a pass at you, Natsumi or Hinata now, I’d probably murder him. I’m selfish, but… I guess I have to be. People rely on . Hell, the world relies on . Sure, I dare say that so other Chosen are worthy and making an effort to prepare us for the dangers that are coming, but…”
“… but relying on others is foolish, when you can use your own strength to protect what you cherish.” Motoko agreed with . “Which is why Natsumi and I are training every day. We cherish our Arts, but… we also cherish you, and the others. Never forget that.” She touched my cheek gently, tilting my head, lips pursed, and I kissed her. Our tongues entwined, and when we were done, our lips connected by a montary bridge of hot saliva, she was breathing heavily. “… I am just happy what I want to do and need to do are now the sa. So, if you are ever dissatisfied with , do tell , and I will do my best to…”
I silenced her with another kiss. She’s still insecure. I get it. She’s so elegant on the outside, being raised a daughter of Tsumura house, but unlike Hinata or Natsumi, she doesn’t have confidence with n, or in herself. “You don’t need to change for . Just be your best self, and I’ll love that.” I promised. “So, what would you like to do?”
“There.” She pointed at a group of Tengu firing arrows at a boar-shaped target. One strange thing was that the arrows were doused in boiling oil first, so that it was like a volley of fiery teorites streaking through the brilliantly lit night. “I would try my skill against these Tengu.”
“Festivals should have gas.” I agreed. “Though it’s usually goldfish scooping, or cutting shapes out of sugared candy. Excuse …” I said, and after so discussion with the Tengu, Motoko had borrowed a bow, holding the flaming arrow gingerly.
“Just as Bellaera said, everything affects the shot…” Motoko muttered. “But a fla acts as a living thing, constantly shifting. The change in heat, weight, all must be balanced…” she squinted, pulling back the heavy string of the bow. It was bulkier than the Tsumura-style bows she normally used, and so of the Tengu had concerns if a fairly frail-looking girl could draw it, but I had no doubts.
“And… there.” She loosed the arrow, and it streaked through the night, joining other arrows, striking the target, though Motoko clicked her tongue, irritated.
“You hit.” I said, and she shrugged.
“I did. But not well. The fla moving changed the trajectory unpredictably, and I was unable to counter it. Again.” She took another arrow, and for a while I was engrossed in watching her shoot. By the fifth arrow she was striking the target well, and her smile was radiant. Handing back the bow to a Tengu, she bowed politely, before turning back to . Seeing her sweaty brow, I mopped it, and she leaned her head on my shoulder.
“I understand now. It is as Natsumi and I realised earlier. Archery is more than the bow, the arrow and the warrior. Archery is the whole world and everything in it.”
“My sister would agree with you. She loves the bow.”
“Yes. Your sister is easy to get along with. Natsumi and I are well pleased. Hinata too.” I raised an eyebrow at that, and she continued. “We of the nobility know that siblings of our husbands can often be spiteful and unwelcoming. It is a constant worry to us. one of many, that fortunately we no longer have to face.” She said, relieved. “I genuinely like your sister. Shared passions hardly hurt.”
“Yeah, if she was here, she’d be using her own flaming bow, making a scene.” I agreed. “Hang on a minute…” sothing caught my eye. “Is that Haanōbō?” From a distance I could see a figure in black robes, white wings still in a sorry state. Long violet hair was trailing down behind it, and the head was ducked low, arms in front of the face.
“I think so. I can tell by the way it moves.” Motoko agreed. “It seems it is heading for the temple.”
“Other Tengu are as well.” I noted, catching sight of Arangbō heading that way, flying through the sky. “The fireworks seem to be diminishing in number.”
“I see. Then it seems our date is coming to an end.” Motoko inferred. “A sha. Now Bellaera will not get her turn.”
Bellaera? “She wasn’t getting a turn.” I insisted, and Motoko smiled warmly.
“I am sure she will be devastated. As we were training, trying to catch her as she effortlessly evaded our clumsy attempts, she talked rather fondly of you.”
“Why? We’ve barely spent any ti together outside of so etings and a little bit of ti I spent training with the Way-Wardens.”
“You underestimate your own appeal, to a warrior. And Bellaera is not one to seek a weak man. She is of nobility too, of a Fae kind, so has no resistance to arranged unions. But alas, you said your days of arranged marriages are over. So…”
“So…?” I asked as I took her hand, and we followed the crowd towards the temple square, under the glow and heat of the brilliantly blazing yet tainted fla.
“So it is up to her to make her charms known in an ordinary manner.” Motoko’s smile deepened, her dark brown eyes knowing, before her expression changed to a teasing one seldom seen on her face. “I am afraid Natsumi and I have been telling her your preferences. Do not bla us if she is more charming than you rember.”
You girls… Shaking my head I squeezed her hand, and put that aside for the mont, spying Tarōbō, now standing at the head of the temple, staff in hand…
********
“It seems I missed my chance.” Bell giggled as Motoko and I approached, hand in hand. Everyone else was already here, and I shrugged as she said just what Motoko had. Is this because she’s talked to my girls?
“Sorry, but four dates in one festival are more than enough.” I brushed her off. “Besides, you’re not my girlfriend, Bell.”
“I could be.” She winked. “I’ve been told that you actually have a thing for elves. I’m an elf. It’s a good match!”
Huh? I looked around, and Natsumi smiled guiltily. “Shiro said you liked elves, and especially elves in…”
“Oh, please don’t say anymore!” Curse you Shiro! A man’s taste in ero-doujin is sacred! Besides, to be honest, that was more Yasu-san’s thing. I do admit, elven won in ani were always gorgeous though… and their haughty pride breaking, accepting they like soone they used to see as inferior… well, I don’t get that vibe from Bell or Soliteare at all. They’re too… normal, I guess?
“I didn’t really understand, but Eri told not to look into it. But Bellaera was happy to know that you do like elves so she has a chance…”
“Changing the subject…” I coughed. “… looks like matters are at a head. And it was Haanōbō, I see.” The Four Directions were now beside Tarōbō, and it was covering its face still with its hands and long hair.
“You have it hard.” Haru-san said, patting on the shoulder, which was unusual for her. “I had more fun watching you than the festival itself. I knew my idea was a good one.”
“Enough.” Yasaka-san complained. “I didn’t have fun. Now, looks like the chief Tengu is about to speak.” Indeed, as we chatted, the majority of the Tengu had filled the square, and Tarōbō slamd down his staff, and beside him, Arangbō yelled out for silence. Once the crowd quietened, the last explosions of fireworks overhead dying down, Tarōbō spoke.
“Tengu of mount Atago, guardians of the sacred fla…” his eyes fell on us, and I could only imagine what expression he was making behind his mask. “… and our uninvited guests. The ti has co. We have sent our prayers, our devotion to the fla, hoping it might quell the spreading abyss. But alas, such hope is foolish. Prayers are best answered by ourselves! We were given the task of guarding the mountain, the fla. But we do it not because this is our task, but because it is ours! We will not let the fla perish, nor abandon our mountain ho! No, we will destroy the abyss and its rifts, purge the poor, damned spirits, and restore the sacred fla to its brilliant, untainted glory!”
As the Tengu around us cheered and waved their wings and flaming torches frantically, Tarōbō shouted his next words. “If we must pray, best let our very actions be prayers! So I call on the brave, the strong, the lucky, the proud, those willing to risk all for our ho and our duty that we do now through desire, ordered by none and serving none.” He was looking at Prince Shōtoku then. “Prove your desire, your fortune, your skill, strength and determination. Challenge yourself and all others, and take your place in defeating that which threatens all we hold dear!”
The crowd again erupted into frenzied cheers, and the fla in the temple behind us wavered, almost as if it heard and understood… Challenge myself and others huh? Do I want to give it a try? I t Tarōbō’s golden eyes, and he inclined his head, as if daring to step forward. I guess it depends on just what the challenges are…
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