I'm back! And, to be honest, this chapter is quite special not because of what's in it, but the great conversation I had with some of the readers. Check out the Mailbag for some great insight, and don't miss them! That's why the section after this is somewhat different (and much longer) than usual. Perosnally, the more Avalon le Fae's explored, the more eager I am to start HV-S01: RKR's rewrite. Still, it may take a while because of the sheer content of that Lostbelt and the research I must redo, since my understanding of both Arthurian mythology and Iron Age Britain were still shallow at first writing.
...then there's the issue of the Solomon movie, which I still can't watch somehow. Can't you do something about this, Nasu?!
That aside, Today's Menu for the Emiya Family has become my most-watched series lately purely because of the recipes and tips I can directly apply to my cooking lately. Also sad to see Fate/Grand Carnival not becoming a proper series like its predecessor.
Here's the great Mailbag for today!
98kazer: That's actually the NEXT one after this. So the 5th or 6th HV story. The 4th one (after HV-S01: RKR's remake) will be about Minamoto no Yoritomo and the Heian Period (so Shuten, Tomoe, etc.). Did I foreshadow it enough?
superpierce: Well, didn't HV-S01: RKR have no harem in it? That's the only monogamous piece of my entire series, isn't it? Of course Mordred will still star.
Guest: Another Sekiro fan! Honestly, I think FromSoft can leave a lot more mysteries in that game, much like the ambiguity around the already-established Soulsborne series. Yes, you're mostly spot-on, though I have to warn you this is my version of Kingfisher and in no way canon. Thank you for your praise!
Two readers this time, superpierce & neverplayedmgs, brought up severahl interesting topics to me in either PM or review. Because I feel our discusison explains a lot of things I left unwritten or implied in-story, and most casual readers won't catch it... or did, and silently question my decision for some things. I put those excerpts here in a separate section from the mailbag. Enjoy these wonderful insights by our two astute readers (whose attention to detail is unworthy for me to receive).
The following section will be in conversation format, edited for clarity and convenience.
superpierce: [regarding African & Levantine nations & their might] So what is the current state of Africa and its many countries (...) like Egypt and Israel? (...) I am just curious about their overall strength and how different their governments and cultures are in the HSV timeline. Also, I'm curious about if Moses still caused the Ten Plagues in this timeline, or if Ozymandias managed to better Egypt so the Israelites weren't slaves.
ekaterina016: Right now, it's mostly the same as Proper Human History - i.e. under heavy colonization from the European kingdoms, though in different states of development, setting the stage for the much-maligned slave trade which will proliferate the world in the next few centuries (though it's already started). Moses's era is so far back in historical terms it's rather irrelevant to my series, beacuse I don't have any plans on tackling that particular setting owing mostly to its legendary status (I mean historically and scientifically unproven, and not in a good way). Maybe I'll do a tribute to the New Testament, but then again, that's so far ahead of the Israelite's slavery it's unaffected.
superpierce: Sad to hear nothing could be done about preventing the global slave trade, which will eventually encompass the world.
ekaterina016: Money and human resources makes the world go round, ever since ancient times. Will I make some references to it? Definitely. But it's unlikely going to be an important plot point when the most important thing to be done to combat that (like in real life) is convince several higher-ups to abolish it in the first place. That's going to be the focus if it's ever going to happen in-series, I think.
ekaterina016: [1] Yes, Japan's global status, structure, influnece, and physical borders will change as a result of the plot. How will it do that? ...I'm not going to answer, of course; spoilers and such! [2] The various naval projects have been indicated several times in-story. Have you noticed them? And yes, since the culture has already changed due to the 4th HV story I'll publish later, of course their attitude on foreign lands will be different. Whether it's as guests, conquerors, aggressors, liberators, etc. (...) [3] Good point with your usage of 'Joseon'. Do you think I should edit the chapters with that terminology? I somehow ended up using 'Goryeo' consistently even though that term should fit the Heian Period-speak better.
neverplayedmgs: I originally thought the use of Goryeo was intentional, as the state of Korea was still under the rule of King Wu's bloodline the (half-Mongol, half-Goryeon bloodline)... meaning the rebellion of Joseon failed or it never happened, and border conflict with Ming is still prevalent, or the King somehow got legitimacy somehow by marrying either a Ming or an actual Goryeon royalty. On the other hand, the situation of China (which is dying, and soon to be replaced by the Han, and later Manchu Qing) following the disaster of the Japanese-Korean War and silver crisis is something I'm more interested in. I personally hope for a democratic empire since what the Manchu want is identity and not to pay tribute, the Han want not to be slaves and starve. A culling of the imperial clans of Ming and Joseon would establish this precedent and a federation would be more likeable than being a tributary. (...) The Qing did exterminate the ming to the last anyways. On the matter of [usage of] Joseon or Goryeo, I don't rightly know if one is better than the other. It's noted that King Wu died from poison and from what is known the rebellion occurred due to his generals idea of attacking Liaodong during a monsoon, causing his general to turn back and rebel, who some people even point out was pro-Ming. The fall of Goryeo is hard to not be thought as foul play. The decline of power of royal Mongol-backed Ggoryeo was being addressed stupidly by attacking Northeastern Ming. Even though Ming couldn't even attack Goryeo, since every time they are attacked, the Koreans just fortify up in mountains and fortresses, and Goryeo was still paying tribute to Ming. Joseon didn't even undergo that crisis since the Ming didn't attack. Still, it would have made more sense to strengthen the court and army and address the issue that the people were originally worried about: Goryeo military was being attacked by Red Turbans, the Japanese wakou, abuse of the common people by martial artists and the decline of Buddhism. Of course this usually means being a tyrant and eradicating pro-Ming or anti-Ming officials and being a dictator, but that's better than being stupid and dead. (...) It being Goryeo could be better as it would be a country ruled through political might and the military would be less powerful, but that's the same even with Joseon since historically the decline of Joseon was something that still occurred during this time. The main point I could see being a difference is whether Goryeo is a tributary of Ming or not and whether the ties of Jurchen and Goryeo are amicable, since story-wise I thought the situation of the continent was mostly peaceful - or not, since the Ming-Joseon despised the Jurchen Mongols, I'm not sure Goryeo would have done better.
ekaterina016: (...) I think my mistake is not delving deep enough into these things apart from a few clues - those you picked up and formed a conclusion with - but I'm also doubtful of my ability to add things this late into the game without ruining things. The Japanese wakou obviously didn't exist to the same extent as it was in our (or 'Proper Human History', as canon calls it) world, as you can read in several quick paragraphs mentioning piracy, while this Nihon's relationship and world view of its neighboring East Asian empires is mostly based on Yoshitsune's rivalry with the Mongols (more on that in the 4th HV story), the latter which soon became the Yuan dynasty anyway after her death.
For the two occupants in the subtly lavish room, it was quite a strange experience sitting here in front of each other.
Nobunaga, head full of burning crimson hair,ab calmly sipped tea with Kennya, herself topped with pink hair to go along with her pink-furred cat ears. The third party both mediated this meeting as well as conducted the tea ceremony as best to her ability… as the only person qualified to do so: Sen-no-Rikyū, a small, silent, black-haired and black-clad young girl.
- Tack. Tack. Tack.
The silence, in fact, made the people trying to eavesdrop on their discussion more nervous than the actual participants themselves.
Still, it didn't mean either one of the main protagonists today was comfortable.
For Nobunaga, this person – or this person's alternate self, to be more precise – was the chief villain of her eventual downfall and death in her previous life. Taking down this nun along with her followers cost Nobunaga so much it's the exact definition of a pyrrhic victory. As Nihon's monarchy in that dimension was much weaker, it enabled religious sects to rise in their arrogance and militarized themselves for decades, if not centuries, carving out their slice of Nihon's wealth – sourced from pilgrims, 'donations', and various interested sponsors. Hongan-ji, for instance, was supported by the Azai-Asakura alliance back then, even though Nobunaga failed to unearth solid evidence which proved it.
With the lack of Mystery, Buddhsim and Shintoism took deeper roots and greater societal impact compared to this new life of hers, both using various methods to stand in her way while excusing themselves with Nobunaga's desire of change… regardless of the plain fact what she's doing would revert things back to those two teachings' original state, without the corruption and arrogance their then-practitioners clearly were more interested in maintaining, instead of doing what was good and just for the common people.
- Tack. Tack. Tack.
Meanwhile, Kennya – who didn't have Nobunaga's fortune of alternate knowledge – was pleasantly surprised at how wrong her advisors were regarding this Princess General's attitude and beliefs. The redhead even went through proper channels to request this meeting, but the nekomata was too interested in seeing those rumours with her own eyes she bypassed those steps to directly arrange it. Ignoring the protests – most notably from her younger sister, Kyonya – she even cleared this whole section of the temple so no interlopers could disturb.
Unbeknownst to her, even if her alternate self didn't do so, this step from Nobunaga ensured the latter could kill her without serious repercussion, as well as hasten this place's infamous burning to this instant. Back then, Kennya had enough Thaumaturgical advantage over Nobunaga she's able to control and command her students' loyalty into outright fanaticism, ensuring any Owari forces trying to trespass would have a difficult time of moving just one more step. Additionally, she tapped directly into the leylines right underneath various major Buddhsit temples, positioning herself politically to ensure she's the face of 'the resistance' against 'Tenka Fubu'… and absorbing great amounts of magical stones and energy from the Thaumaturgical Foundation as a result of that.
- Tack. Tack. Tack.
But, with Nobunaga's current self and the [Anti-Divine] attribute she brought over to this life she could technically flatten Hongan-ji simply by summoning her Guardian Spirit and performing Apotheosis right here and now, without anyane able to oppose her. The fact she's here, in the figurative heart of Nihon's Buddhism, actually empowered her beyond her theoretical maximum – the stronger the resistance, the greater the effect.
Still, she was here to negotiate and not threaten anyane.
She promised Muramasa that much, at least.
Besides, she's actually fond of this new Kennya. Having some yōkai blood in her seemed to have done some good towards her tolerance regarding new ideas. Nobunaga perhaps had more religious knowledge than perhaps any other person currently living in this era – apart from her lover, of course – owing to her vengeful desire to study where she was weak and how her opponents defeated her.
Apart from Kennya, Shintoism was one of the aspects she refocused her studies on… because of Jūbei. Or her other self, to be precise. This Jūbei was more likely to burn herself than trapping Nobunaga with a controlled arson in Honnō-ji, but there's no disadvantage in improving oneself. At least, the two young women had more topics to discuss, instead of their previous selves' more formal relationship.
- Tack. Tack. Tack.
The third person in the room, meanwhile, was just there for the money.
Ah, no, the tea master wasn't a particularly greedy person. In fact, she'd do elaborate tea ceremonies for the poor's weddings, birthdays, meetings, etc. with very little pay. However, she certainly was only drawn to 'mediating' between these two powerful individuals – as much 'mediating' her silence and green tea could provide, that was – because they offered a tremendous amount of gold for her and her school.
'They'… as in various smaller groups operating in and around Honshu's central area, pushing for a space for an 'eye' in this crucial meeting between two of the most militarily influential warlords with an eye towards Nihon's southern parts. The northern half was dominated by the Tripartite – as crumbling as it was currently – along with the Date and Ashina Clan towards the Hokkaido area.
'Interested parties', as they called themselves. Rikyū couldn't help a smile forming on her usually-impassive face on the way here, because she loved using their own dirty money to strike back at those liars.
As per request, here she was… 'mediating'. In her own way, yes, but who could prove she's not doing her job?
- Tack. Tack. Tack.
The room was filled by the sound of her wooden tools softly and rhythmically tapping against each other. Many might claim her procedures were complicated and excessively ritualistic, but no one doubted the effects once they joined in an event she presided. Other than delicately forming the tea into its appropriate texture, flavour, and scent, the tea master must also be a show onto themselves. Sound, sight, smell… When comparing her work to a geisha, Rikyū thought they were very similar in nature indeed. They only catered to different pleasures ingrained in human beings – for her, that of tranquillity, peace of mind, appetite, and clarity.
"So, there's the information we gathered about the Nanban," Nobunaga spoke after going through the pleasantries and summarizing what the joint training exercise recently held had revealed. "What do you want to do?"
"I don't think it's important. What's crucial is what they are going to do. I…" Kennya caught herself, before continuing, "We of the Nyankōsō prefer to wait and formulate a proper response. As you can see," she spread her small arms wide, her pink cat ears twitching in excitement, "we're not equipped to make the first move, especially against a foe that elusive."
"And that's just the thing!" Nobunaga pointed out. "Actually, I want your opinion about the Nanbans who aren't the enemies. Personally, I'm going to campaign for their integration into Nihon society… because there's a bigger fish we can lure in out there if we do." Despite the importance and weight of their discussion, the two girls' tone remained rather friendly, with the Princess General adding, "This may sound rude, but… If that happens, then don't stand in my way."
"Nyahahaha… Who am I to be an obstacle to an imperial envoy?" Kennya's lips pursed felinely when she noticed Nobunaga's questioning gaze. "What? These ears of mine are quite good, you know…"
"Or simply your shinobis are excellent."
"Or simply you're letting it leak out on purpose? Hm? To legitimize yourself?"
The redhead smirked, closing her eyes in defeat. "Or that, yes."
The Nyankōsō was a branch of nekomata yōkai clan who was the first to convert to Buddhism when monks came from the West. In contrast to the Pan-Human History, they weren't native to this temple, but moved here to Hongan-ji when one of Kennya's predecessor became Temple Head, replacing her teacher. As a result, it's now nicknamed 'Honbyō', borrowing some radicals from the various feline characteristics now populating the current temple.
What Kennya proclaimed, apart from washing her hands off most culpability, was this reality's result. With Himiko's and the Minamoto Clan's absolute control, it's difficult to create and maintain official military forces, especially when Hongan-ji was… well, a religious temple. It should be protected, yes, but to keep the power balance optimal for the empire's whole, it should be done by a professional appointed security group instead of self-trained warrior monks.
It's certainly a departure from what's established in Ming's Buddhism's centre and where the first teachers in Nihon were from. The Shaolin warriors flourished under various rulers who valued their elders' wisdom and their combat strength, apart from their general popularity among the people. In its history, it was only destroyed once, during the Red Turban Rebellion against Mongol-turned-Yuan monarchs… but even then, an avatar called Vajrapāni rallied its counterattack and subsequent resurgence.
What would happen in the next few short decades from now… only Muramasa could answer that. Nobunaga and the other girls – perhaps also Himiko – had glimpses, yes, but not to the point they're prepared to confront him and accept the consequences. And they're certainly not going to spread future information to yet-untrusted allies.
It's enough that Nihon's entire history and current structure were changed into an unrecognizable empire compared to where Nobunaga was from. What would happen if the entire world experienced such seismic changes?
Eyeing the still-silent Rikyū, who was dutifully keeping herself out of the conversation… and seemingly more interested in the tea being served than the other two living beings in the room, Kennya decided to bite the bullet. "To be honest, I won't do anything to them. However," she emphasized, "just the smallest confrontation or antagonism from those priests against our teachings, and don't expect me to avert my eyes. I will kick their asses if they do so."
Nobunaga chuckled. "I expect nothing less. Besides, the Nanban I'm going to introduce to you isn't that kind of person. Control her, and her followers will fall in line. I'll personally shoot those who want to stir up trouble like her senior at that time."
Kennya nodded. "Do also take note this is an off-the-books declaration. My sister… is quite troublesome and stubborn."
"Ah, is Kyonya-dono still opposed to my presence here?"
"She demands your head when I walk out of this room, you know," Kennya stated, shrugging. "What do you think I should do?"
Receiving a question she'd asked this pink-haired yōkai before, Nobunaga joked. "Depends on how many people she brings with her."
"Nah, they won't get past the man you brought as company." Jutting her tongue out childishly, Kennya also added, "I've also seen the way you look at him. when can I expect the wedding date?"
The Princess General blushed to the same extent as her hair's colour. "That… is still far away," she calmly deflected after several moments, before clarifying, "Muramasa won't hurt anyone. He'd probably throw your sister out of the window, but you nekomata usually land on your feet, don't you?"
"Perhaps Kyonya's rock-like stubbornness will lead to her landing on head-first?"
"Oi, aren't you her sister…?" Nobunaga sweat-dropped at the sadistic undertone of Kennya's joke. "Though it's not like I don't understand your feelings…"
The two of them then broke out into a small laughter, with RIkyū twitching in surprise since she hadn't been paying attention for the past few minutes. The contents of the discussion wouldn't affect her or her school in the slightest apart from the money – which was already paid anyway – and her admirers always noted she was most attractive when she weas fully concentrated on her art. Not that she paid too much attention to her appearance anyway, generally preferring regular clothes and make-up – but if tea ceremony could make a plain girl like her pretty in the eyes of others, then it's her advantage to claim for spreading her art further among the populace.
Of course, this was simply her own perception of herself. Nobunaga even thought Kennya deliberately brought in such an attractive girl as a 'tea ceremony master' to distract her in this negotiation, assuming there's no way this one was truly Sen-no-Rikyū's counterpart – the man she knew was a thin, wrinkled, but otherwise energetically healthy older man with an astonishingly mysterious and enchanting wise eyes. When compared to this girl, complete with Nanban-style Gothic hoodie decorated with distinct European frills, topped with a large light-lilac five-petalled flower adorning the side of her head.
Masamune's choice of attire was logical when considering her childhood and upbringing in this reality. Besides, that blonde girl's counterpart was, to Nobunaga's knowledge, also favourable towards Nanban culture, though of course not to her extent. From the time they're together – one which would undoubtedly cause the two to bicker again – Masamune admitted to thoughts of betraying Nihon over to the foreign merchants, but restrained herself a few years ago when Louíse berated her for it, despite the mistreatment she received for being a half-blood.
But Sen-no-Rikyū clearly had never even touched Nanban products, much less consuming its culture like this black-themed young girl kneeling by her side. The most that old man ever did was evaluate several imported tea leaves – themselves mostly from Ming and Mughal, and rarely from as far as Byzantine.
Still, having satiated her 'thirst' with Muramasa and the other girls – including Masamune, though the little girl would most likely vehemently and violently deny it ever happened; 'That tsundere…' – she managed to keep her focus and reached this point, assisted by the most concrete evidence denying her suspicion: a masterfully-crafted green tea, a level which only the real Rikyū could achieve.
Right after their laughter, several small confectionaries were served, Rikyū's dainty hands expertly arranging them around the low table placed in front of the two main protagonists. Nobunaga was used to this formation from her former life, but Kennya was pleasantly surprised when the tea master chose to use the exquisite ceramic tea bowl as the centrepiece, placing the snacks to surround it as supporting casts instead of placing the drink to one side, as was typical with regular banquets with water, cheap tea, and/or sake.
However, it's the redhead who was bothered more in the end, hungry eyes focusing on the glimpses of pale white skin revealed by the entirely-black clothing whenever Rikyū moved closer to her. The distinct scent of fresh herbs tickled her nose, and Nobunaga had to actively restrain her hands by clenching them into fists quietly from grabbing that weak-looking limbs, never lifting anything heavier than a flower-arrangement shear, by force.
'Geez… Why am I so horny lately?' She pondered, relieved neither girls in front of her noticed her mental struggle. 'I blame Shirō and Chiyome-san…'
The memory of that raunchy night surfaced at precisely the wrong moment, though thankfully Nobunaga was prepared for it.
"Going back to our conversation, is the Nanban you mentioned just Sister Louíse alone? Or does she have more members to her group?" Kennya asked in-between bites of traditional sweets – a sign of wealth, since local sugar production hadn't gotten going yet, forcing confectionaries to rely on imported products.
Matching her host's pace, Nobunaga answered, "One young Spanish boy… on Ise Island, I think? He and his retainer are with the Kuki Pirates."
"Haa… Just two worthy persons among hundreds, huh?" Kennya folded her arms behind her head, scratching her cat ears cutely. "Why can't they be more like us?"
"I think the fact they volunteered to come here proves their homelands are already screwed-up," Nobunaga concluded. "Hence, after everything's done over here, I intend on going there myself and raze them to the ground."
"Fufufu… How ambitious," the nun smirked. "I like it."
"Ugh… Why do you choose somewhere this cold and isolated for your training?" Shuten-dōji complained, rubbing her upper arms and pretending to shiver dramatically just to make a point. "Is it because of your [Fire] Element?"
"Great Ancestor, shouldn't the most jarring thing be your choice of clothes? Why do you insist on keeping your oiran getup even though your mate has long passed?" Tomoe sighed, though maintaining her meditative posture. In contrast to the shorter oni, she was much more conservatively dressed with formal kimono, but still much too thin for the frigid blizzard raging right outside the small temple she'd chosen for this seclusion session. "Anyway, please don't disturb me. Whatever manages to catch your concern is much too powerful for me, Great Ancestor."
Despite them being distantly related, the white-haired buxom woman still respectfully addressed Shuten-dōji as such. Compared to Yoritomo and Yoshitsune, for example, Tomoe could be said to hail from a completely different lineage. It came to the Minamoto Clan's advantage when she was latter required to cheat on her husband, Yoshinaka, in order to continue her oni blood with the main branch members, because she was reluctant to show him her true form. Indeed, until he passed, he never knew of her inhuman side.
This affair was kept out of the history books, only passed on orally among the Clan Heads and their closest relatives. Additionally, because of the newfound confusion of the human-yōkai pact of the time, there were certain… relationships which were kept under the table, such as Ibaraki-dōji's eventual existence and continued lineage with Watanabe-no-Tsuna; the couple publicly bitter enemies, the epitome of resistance against the pact despite their colleagues' respective acceptance of it in the moment.
But that's a story for another time.
"Oh, come on, don't be like that…" Shuten-dōji, as usual, was being as pushy as possible, strutting over and attempting to look as intimidating as possible. While this trick might be effective on that redheaded descendant of hers, Tomoe knew her too well to fall for this trick, disregarding the fact it looked like an arrogant kid posturing over an adult. "Strength isn't everything. You can impact the world more than me because of my various restrictions, and that could be all the difference… No, it's most likely going to be the difference. Can't you tell?"
"I can, but my time isn't now," Tomoe argued, sighing deeply, before eventually relenting and pausing her meditation. There's no way she could properly train with this pest of an old hag hanging around…
"Are you thinking of something rude about me?"
"Of course not, Great Ancestor," Tomoe smoothly lied, having practiced that line over and over again through the centuries. "I simply find your claim hard to fathom; that's all."
"Ah, you underestimate yourself. Why not be more confident like that brat Yoshitsune?!" Shuten-dōji chuckled, exclaiming and gesturing excitedly. "It's thanks to that unseen side of yours we finally triumphed not only over the Taira, but also the universe's perception!"
"Great Ancestor, are you drunk? You don't usually sound so chipper in this cold," Tomoe shifted their topic of conversation, reminding the shorter oni of her serpentine blood. In contrast to the latter, her [Fire] Element was so intense she barely needed any Reinforcement to stay warm in this weather. "Please, do sit."
"No way! That floor's colder than my father's heart!" Shuten-dōji refused, though she simply materialized a large gourd by her side, spill out its liquid contents, and manipulate it into a bubble she could sit comfortably on. "Come, now, please come with me and out of this… cave you've holed yourself in. Regardless of that master you've found to rededicate yourself after everything, the only way to safeguard everything we… I care about is with your help, Tomoe-chan."
"At least you're decent enough to speak part of the truth, Great Ancestor," the white-haired oni smiled bitterly. "You are a great hero… not just among us yōkai, but for Nihon as a whole. There is no one in history who can doubt that."
Uncharacteristically, the praise brought an embarrassed blush to Shuten-dōji, who was used to be the one causing this reaction. However, she was just as quick in controlling said emotional leakage, coughing quickly. "Ahem… Thank you for your praise, but I've heard that phrase thousands of times even before you were born! Now, quit dilly-dallying and answer my request!"
"I think you'll find what I'm sitting on – literally – is just as important as the 'mission' you're striving for outside, Great Ancestor," Tomoe still reflected calmly, gesturing with her arms to emphasize her point. "Goryeo's Dragon Heritage has come, and I'm safeguarding it for our country's use later in the future. I assume the invasion will still happen?"
"That's still some way in the future, you know?!" Shuten-dōji argued. "I'm talking about the impact you can have now… the two of us, side-by-side…" She paused, cutting herself off to correct, "Alright, that never happened. But we can re-enact your partnership with that brat Yoritomo!"
"You sound truly desperate, Great Ancestor," Tomoe sighed in response, "but I truly can't move away now. We… of the Heian Period worked, so hard, sacrificed so much, to ensure this generation won't be short of capable people. And more than one of my… our descendants are more than able to assist you, no?" She narrowed her eyes to emphasize her seriousness, in contrast to Shuten-dōji's rather playful attitude – a side she'd never indulged in the past. "I'm here to safeguard our future, Great Ancestor. For our present, I'll leave that in your capable hands."
The praise drew a satisfied grunt out of the short oni's nostrils, but she didn't relent in her persuasion, "What if I explain the details to you? Then, perhaps, you'll see something to reconsider."
"I doubt it, but please, go on."
"How about we begin with the fact remnants of Taira have showed up recently? Teamed up with the Nanban, too."
"…I'm listening."
Shutten-dōji visibly smirked, not caring how obvious her bait was. "Well, they no longer hold the 'Taira' clan name – as the two of us know, we destroyed them quite thoroughly – but it seems the latest generation of Ashikaga holds not only their blood, but their vengeance as well."
"Didn't the current Shogun-sama chop their heads off? I heard Himiko-chan's quite pleased with that… present of theirs," Tomoe inquired. Despite being holed up in this seclusion for centuries, her ears were as sharp as ever, owing to her constant connection with the Reverse Side's Texture around this area, using it to her advantage. It's not perfect and detailed, but enough to know the large-scale play at hand. "And your statement right now sounds more like accusation rather than provable fact. Perhaps… I should be the one to brief you on the current situation here. How about that?"
"Wait, wait, wait. Let me finish." The black-haired oni shot out a palm to stop her counterpart's argument, before continuing, "They're going to come soon – the Nanban – and they're not going to do it with just a few spies and a small fleet of disguised merchant ships. They're going to raze us to the ground with their metal floating fortresses! Tell me, how can we stop them with just… without you?!"
- Clap.
Tomoe brought her palms together softly, but abruptly, in front of the ranting Shuten-dōji. "Have you been listening to your own excuses, Great Ancestor? Every single thing you brought up is an innovation or a role these descendants of ours is fully taking on… and at times already succeeded!" Noticing her voice's growing higher and louder, she brought it down a touch, adding, "Now, please, get to the real point why you're seeing me? Enough of this masked intentions and hidden truths!"
Either side had a point.
Going from the recent events uncovered by Louíse, Britain would definitely make a move… though it likely wouldn't come directly from its government. Edward Kelley was a prized student and partner of John Dee, who himself was a trusted mentor of the Queen herself. There were people from the early burgeoning Protestantism, inspired by the Saintess's scathing criticisms of the current Church, infiltrating the merchant convoys across the globe to spread what's going on among Europe's political upheaval, hoping to find something which could profit from it. They were far from Louíse's religious standards, but in these times, they didn't have to be for their words to receive the buxom's nun praises and blessings.
In short, after losing Kelley, Dee's entire mansion was flattened to the ground, leaving nothing but a scorched crater in its place. It was evidently witnessed by the Queen herself, though rumours had already started to spread before she and her envoys actually arrived at the scene. The subsequent information clampdown only served to verify these claims… but one thing was still missing from the reports: John Dee's death.
In a world where even seeing the corpse didn't mean said individual was truly dead, it was certainly a cause for concern. Regardless of Queen Elizabeth's personal actions, the wealth and influence the famed magus had accumulated enabled him to strike out at a nation by himself, especially if he prioritized efficacy, choosing to indulge in subterfuge, sabotage, and destruction.
Still, there were several holes in that argument by Shuten-dōji – a major one connected with Tomoe's main reason of denial, even.
The person who vanquished Dee's Workshop – 'Or has it evolved into a Temple?' – was the holder of Britain's long-lost Dragon's Heritage.
In what many current historians lament as a monumental political blunder, that kingdom actually drove its founder's pure lineage, the Pendragon blood, away from the lands they built with their own hands. Almost immediately afterwards, the Sacred Treasures remaining there failed to function simultaneously, and the most powerful ones were taken away by the then-heirs to mainland Europe, where it eventually established itself in a small principality in Hungary.
It was ironic then, when travelling bards and minstrels joked about Dee's house being obliterated by Excalibur or its ilk; the symbol of royal nepotism in Britain, punished by its holiest artifact?
Himiko found it funny enough she granted the merchant who told her the news with a small land in Kyoto, even. Of course, she placed numerous geas on the contract which ensured his asset wouldn't last one generation, but even then it's a generous enough reward as he could establish an official trading base there without fear of competition. Most merchants like him first aimed to gather as much wealth in one's lifetime as possible, anyway, since an inheritance wouldn't do anyone any good if it's too pitiful.
While Britain's naval prowess was formidable still, it made its spiritual standing among Europe's Mystery-rich lands nosedive, placing it near dead-last in popular researches and votes. It pushed the kingdom into embracing any type of industrial revolution faster, but its scientific progress – hurriedly approved and forced to make up ground on its lost international prestige – had been stunted owing to mainland Europe's constant suppression and eventual executions for forward-minded people, leading them under the Saintess's protection. Naturally, the latter group wanted nothing with Britain, preferring to pursue their innovations in relative peace and seclusion – a blessing she granted them, and the main reason she's so popular and influential now.
As a result, even if they wanted to avenge their loss in Nihon – publicly disowned, of course, since the image of British spies boarding Spanish galleons to invade and steal from Nihon wasn't exactly conductive to its national progress – they wouldn't be able to spare the resources to cross half the world just to do so.
Contrast that with what Tomoe knew of Nobunaga's current projects, one of which was producing a metal fleet to match Britain's own… but directly supported by both the state and the Reverse Side of the World, equipping it with various otherworldly features to ensure once this project was made public, there would be little chance for anyone to quickly copy and surpass.
Therefore, whoever came to Nihon would be severely outnumbered… and not necessarily more powerful than their own warriors at that.
Ever since the Minamoto Clan was established at Nihon's top seat, Tomoe retreated to live in seclusion, with some rumours claiming she'd become a nun. While not entirely wrong, she still indulged in some… earthly pleasures when her body required it, and not entirely living an ascetic life like a true worshipper. She realized she lacked the strength to truly change things, unlike her distant cousin Yoritomo – and secret lover – and her husband. The latter was far weaker physically than the former, but his attitude and communications skills enabled him to be a major player in the wars.
What about her? Despite her martial arts skills, Yoritomo pointed out it wouldn't do shit if she didn't have the strength of character to stand in front and become an example for others to follow. Yet, she allowed that era's chauvinistic traditions to overwhelm and control her daily life, leading to her standing beside her husband at most, and usually was one step behind out of respect.
This 'respect' was what failed the couple, when she was one step too slow to prevent his death.
While she'd long made peace with that event, it didn't mean she'd forgotten it. Naturally, it drove her into intense training which lasted until right now, and was likely going to continue until several decades later, when it came the time she had to return to the Reverse Side of the World, much like Ibaraki-dōji, an ancestor genetically closer to her than Shuten-dōji.
"My current lord, Takeru-sama, is currently afflicted with a magical malady connected directly to this very land and the aforementioned Goryeo's Dragon's Heritage," Tomoe sternly insisted. "I'm here to study the leylines and find a cure which doesn't involve calling Shirō-kun here and chopping my master's head off. Left unchecked, it'll spread to the south where it'll turn uncontrollable, Great Ancestor." She stood up, towering over the shorter oni. "What good is my help when my absence will cause your victory to be undone in days?"
"…it's that serious?"
"I have been indicating such with every gesture and speech I do today in front of you. Have you not picked them up, Great Ancestor?" Centuries of growing older had injected her tone with some usable venom when necessary, as she mocked Shuten-dōji. "Please, stop thinking you're the untouchable top of us, the yōkai caste and figurative castle. We are strong enough to support and replace you, Great Ancestor."
Instead of feeling insulted by this woman who was, in turn, millennia younger than her, Shuten-dōji's expression mellowed instead, reverting back to her usual demeanour nowadays. There was… pride? "Well, you're right."
"Pardon?" Tomoe had to let out a gasp at such an easy verbal victory.
The black-haired oni clapped her knees, before shrugging. "Why are you so surprised? Just as you claimed you all changed have gotten stronger, so can I. Why not? Just like you said – perhaps some of my old habits carried over whenever I'm speaking with old acquaintances. Hehehe…"
She giggled when Tomoe's well-trimmed eyebrows twitched at the word 'old', finding it funny she, the ancient one, wasn't anywhere nearly as bothered with it as the young ones these days. "Ah, did I touch a sore spot? Don't worry, Tomoe-chan… You're still as luscious and beautiful as ever!"
The white-haired oni clicked her tongue in embarrassment at her expression crumbling and being so easily read. "Thank you for your compliment, Great Ancestor… I'll repay you the same thing in return if only you're not sporting that vicious smirk."
"Ahahahaha! Now the old Tomoe-chan is back!" Shuten-dōji guffawed rather exaggeratedly, adopting a laughing posture more similar to old ladies than the unripened flower form she's taking now. "Still, don't hesitate to contact me if you change your mind! The battlefield's going to be insanely large; you're not going to miss it!"
As the small silhouette flickered into the distance, her invitation trailing and growing ever-smaller, Tomoe was left with the urge to massage her temples harshly. "Isn't that the very thing I'm so eager to avoid…"
"Fufufu… It seems it's been a while since we've all gathered together in one place, no?" Nagahide smiled politely, palming her cheek with one hand. "Now, let's begin with sharing everything we've achieved so far."
"For what? A contest on who's gathered the most honour?" Hanzō sarcastically remarked, though he changed course quickly enough, to his credit, "Besides, are you sure Nobunaga-sama's absence won't impact the legitimacy of this meeting?"
"Hmph! Nobunaga-sama isn't someone so smallminded! I'm sure she'll understand!" However, almost immediately after that, Katsuie's voice turned timid, questioning Nagahide, "…er, she will understand, right, Manchiyo?"
The well-mannered lady could only sigh, though her spot for exposition was suddenly usurped by Toshīe, who had just returned from a long patrol campaign in the north. "There's quite a few individuals available, capable enough to stand in place with Nobunaga-sama. If she's unable to attend, then all we have to do is invite one of them."
"You just want to eat Sengo-dono's snacks again, don't you?!" Katsuie accused, pointing a finger at the small girl… who this time wasn't wearing her tiger pelt over her head. The gesture brought forth a silhouette burst of her predominantly-white Guardian Spirit boar, which instantly triggered Toshīe's own ethereal tiger. However, the big-breasted general didn't seem to notice the escalating Mystery filling the room owing to the two otherworldly beings, and continued, "Well, if he's here, then at least those annoying women wouldn't be, right? I don't mind that…"
She was referring to Muramasa's two oldest lovers, Chiyome and Danzō.
Part of what irked those present about them, especially the more traditionally-minded ones, was how they positioned themselves above their Princess General in their unofficial 'household'… and how Nobunaga didn't seem to be too bothered by it… Everyone here were used to polygamous relationships, but also how the women in said structure was ranked. It didn't have to be done abusively like many imperial harems in the past, but their common senses mandated Nobunaga, someone of a higher standing, shouldn't be third in such a relationship.
Except for Hanzō, of course. He didn't really care about this topic, and thus was able to keep his calm whenever Chiyome or Danzō was mentioned. Slowly, others lacked the energy and fervour to continue this antagonism Nagahide maintained to this day, though it left them mostly undecided, rather than completely support it like Mitsuhide had done – to the extreme, by actually joining it, as per her usual style.
Besides, what weakened Nagahide's constant arguments was Nobunaga's preference with her other lovers, such as Nō and Masamune. The fact the two girls were clearly underaged even with this era's standards was an argument of another day, and how Nobunaga had been 'grooming' them throughout this last year could also be a subject of criticism… chiefly in how hypocritical it was when the man she'd been doggedly hating and chasing, Yoshkage, was currently doing and proclaiming he's going to do the same.
But because the Princess General barely brought it up, and they were in a literal civil war, the retainers didn't have the chance to bring it up. For sure, Nobunaga wouldn't mind being confronted and criticized, especially by people she trusted, but now wasn't the time – when 'Tenka Fubu' was so tantalizingly within reach…
The second reason was… well, those two kunoichis were really hard people to deal with, embodying their husband's already-controversial views further than even he was. It's as if they completely abandoned what Nihon had taught them over the years, then completely switching and worshipping whatever ideals he'd confessed to them. As such, especially with Nagahide who was already at odds with his inclusion in this inner circle, Chiyome and Danō held very low opinions regarding them.
For example, the establishment of the still-nameless shinobi clan, partially headed by Hanzō and Goemon – who was also present, but kept silent this entire time… from her upside-down perch on the roof – was also clearly meant to kept them in check. Nobunaga assured them it wasn't so, but the signs were all there: the formation of a private, separate force to deal with people close to a leader…
The thought she might distrust them, after all these years, hurt and frightened them more than the chance they might be killed by her orders.
So far, apart from a few spats, the group truly had done nothing untoward against those present, to the point either Chiyome and Danzō would personally confirm with each member if there's an operation which might impact the retainers' public or private standings, business interest, or sensitive beliefs… Not that the kunoichis would particularly make great concessions if either one of the group members objected, but to the duo, it's the thought which counted.
Much like their husband, when any one of them – especially Nagahide – had any opinion to say… it depended on whether they're strong enough for the kunoichis to take into consideration. This applied even to their direct underlings – at the very least, they're objective in that sense.
"Now, now, let's get back to the topic at hand… Eh, we still actually haven't started yet, right?" Ranmaru's boyish face smiled wryly as he tapped the floor to gather everyone's attention back. "The people who're more crucial to this meeting is actually Kazumasu-chan and that Christian pairing nearby, aren't they? Does anyone have any confirmation regarding the latter's intention to ally?"
Goemon quickly raised a hand. "Because of bad weather, they're going to be late. I assume no one has any objection to holding a more private meeting later, just to inform them of our decisions? I don't think they'll negotiate much." Coughing to prevent her lisp from appearing after a certain number of words, she continued, "They're very humble people with very little needs. Additionally, so long as the nun is firmly on our side, that blonde boy will follow. Chiyome-sama's finalized things; here's the summarized document."
On command, several small scrolls floated and landed in front of their laps, though it's mostly for formality's sake since those present roughly knew their contents. Still, they politely unwound the documents and scanned it, wary of missing out any details which might catch them out – a favourite administrative trick of Chiyome's to slip in something crucial for the future.
Nagayoshi, Ranmaru's older brother, clicked his tongue when he found what he thought was exactly that. "What does this mean by, "…conquered the northern territory…"? I thought the Tripartite is still standing there proudly, linking arms and showing balls?"
"I think showing 'breasts' may be a more accurate term… since, you know, they're all led by Princess Generals, Nagayoshi-dono," Nagahide impatiently corrected, rather unamused by his uncouth speech. "Regardless, if you read the intelligence shared among us correctly, it revealed the Hōjō and Nagao Princess Generals to be favourable towards us. Hopefully, they'd allow us an easy transition when we turn our attention northwards."
"Tch! And here I was, getting fired up for crossing swords with Kenshin-dono! Why do these 'treaties' have to get in the way?!" Nagayoshi grunted, his large body rumbling in accordance to his booming voice. "Then, what about Shingen-dono?!"
Despite his annoyance, one thing was clear from the way he addressed them: he greatly respected and adored the Princess Generals' martial skills. In fact, one of the reasons he so readily joined Nobunaga's service, before his clan decided to follow his footsteps, was so he could engage the Tripartite leaders on even footing on the battlefield. Even in this young age, when he only completed his coming-of-age ceremony a few years ago – while his younger brother Ranmaru had just done so this year – he'd established himself as one of Owari's top fighters.
With his great halberd and war fan, he was the epitome of this era's memorable warriors… if he was still in the Proper Human History. As it was, this universe was far too soft and peace-loving for his taste – thus his annoyance at the steps Nobunaga had decided to take. He trained and slaved throughout his youth to clash his blades against the greatest warriors of the era, winning the best possible honour! What good was a man like him if there's no wars to fight in, no duels to partake with?
He's already pleased with the fact there's an abundance of powerful individuals he could spar with in this clan. Katsuie, for instance, always won against him, but their similar styles meant the fight was always a close-wound one, when one mistake would decide either life or death. Regardless whether they're using wooden weapons or not, Owari's recent healthcare had been top-notch, able to heal serious wounds in a matter of days with a combination of Nihon, Nanban, and Thaumaturgical medicine. As such, people like him only intensified his efforts, knowing the risk was minimal.
Come to think of it, when was the last time he won at these… 'play-fights'? Katsuie was a given, since despite his advantage in size, her incredibly dense musculature meant she actually outpower him quite a bit. Additionally, his Guardian Spirit was a notch weaker than hers – but it only served as a challenge to overcome!
He predictably lost against Mitsuhide… in much more embarrassing fashions, since she'd take him down with minimal moves and sweat, never appearing to enjoy the hard slog of difficult combat with him! And this was without her Magecraft, because she claimed, "I can't stand your complaints! Fine; no spells!"
…only Nagahide had conceded some defeats to him, though he suspected she only did so to gather data and plan on how to control the next battle to her… specific goals.
Nagayoshi had no interest in battling the shinobis – Hanzō, Goemon, Chiyome, Danzō, etc. – because there was no honour in defeating and killing rats like them. However, regardless of how he felt about them, he was eager to battle their supposed 'leader', Muramasa… even though the redhead had never claimed to be a shinobi.
Or a swordsman. Or a blacksmith. Or a chef. Or a magus. At times, Muramasa's tendencies to deflect people's expectations of him rubbed Nagayoshi the wrong way, despite knowing it's fully under Nobunaga's permission and for her sake.
Hanzō was the one to answer his last inquiry about the Takeda Clan and its famed Princess General, in place of his lord, Motoyasu, who was absent precisely because she was investigating this matter… which was a bit of an irony. "The Tiger was… is currently undecided, though her Nijūshi-shō are mostly eager to still oppose us. My lord is currently negotiating with them under pretext of investigation."
The information-gathering specialist was here, while the clumsy racoon was over in Kai among enemies and monsters. Truly, a thought which kept Hanzō awake at night. If not for Motoyasu's specific – and rather desperate, honestly – orders to leave her alone to gather merit and honour, he'd rush to her side right now, the recent joint training be damned.
- Bang!
"Another peace talks?!" Nagayoshi punched the floor in frustration, though restrained enough he didn't put a serious dent in it. "If they want a fight, then come! I'll be at the frontline myself!"
Nagahide raised a gentle palm to force the topic back to its path. "No one's going to fight… yet." She emphasized that last word with a glare at the now-fuming Nagayoshi, before sternly adding, "The Nanban is coming. And this time, their goal won't just be the Yasakani-no-Magatama."
"The very same ones Nobunaga-sama has been sheltering and supporting?" Ranmaru queried politely, though the fighting spirit shining through his young eyes was comparable to his older brother's. "Like Belchior-san and Takayama-dono? What do we do about them?"
"They're… in a different group. Nobunaga-sama is handling them personally. It appears they received some… offerings from outside, too." Nagahide informed, "we have to be careful while using this term – 'Nanban', I mean – because they, like us, compose of so many different groups and beliefs."
"Do these… interlopers have a name? What do the 'good Nanbans' call them?" Ranmaru inquired further.
Nagahide shrugged, clearly not fully understanding the history and meaning behind the name she's about to utter out.
"The Templar Order… or something like that. I'm not sure of the pronunciation; pardon me."