Since I needed to save my slowly recovering spatial element for later, Daiyu and I got a car into central Tokyo, since it was a short drive from our estate. My sis and Eri came with us but were going to get dropped off elsewhere for their own date. Date, huh? Eri looked a bit exasperated by Aiko’s antics, but I know she’s happy that my sister has finally opened up to us. I feel a lot of relief, myself. Eri, Aiko and I have been close since they were born. And while I did… abandon them… I hated thinking that, as I felt I had good reasons at the time, but in a sense it was true… such close bonds weren’t easy to sever. Though even the thickest rope can snap if it is frayed enough. But it can also be repaired, becoming stronger for the work…

My sis and Eri were dropped off first, apparently they were going to hang out in Shinjuku and Shibuya. I warned them to be careful, and my sis giggled, rolling her eyes at me.

“Don’t worry, bro. I won’t let any harm come to Eri, I shall be the perfect gentlewoman! In that regard, anyway… wow, Eri, you hit me! Don’t rattle my brains, we’ve established I’m already slow, what happens if I really become an idiot?”

“Just ignore her.” Eri sighed, though she didn’t seem displeased, and surely was just teasing my sis, in her own way. “Trust me, nobody’s going to cause us trouble. Even if there’s a Chosen attack, I’m confident two-on-one we won’t lose, and at worst, we can escape. Besides…”

If there’s any trouble, you can leap to us in a moment, yes? Your destination’s only a couple of kilometres away. And with the four of us…

Yeah, I’m confident we can handle it, unless it’s that damn toad itself, which isn’t happening. Still, there are… other sorts… of trouble. But I believe in my sister. She’s not going to act recklessly.

If she does, I’ll knock more sense into her and drag her back myself. But… you two talked and know each other’s hearts. It’ll be fine.

“Hey, Daiyu…” My sis puffed out her cheeks. “They’re talking in their minds again, aren’t they? Don’t you find it frustrating?” It seemed my sis was as perceptive as ever, as she had noticed the momentary halt in our actions, too small for those without superhuman Intellect and Alacrity, to discern.

“I find it enviable, yes. Yet…” Daiyu truly looked beautiful in her red and white cheongsam, with her stocking-clad legs peeking out, and her beautifully arranged hair, red and white flowers contrasting the deep black. “…I do cherish a goal to strive for. And we know that Eri’s Lovers’ Link is replicable. What happens twice is no longer unique and shall happen again.”

“Good attitude. Not that I have to worry about that, since I’m running a different Skill.” my sis grinned, before Eri grabbed her arm tightly.

“Stop bothering them. You’ve had your time, Aiko. Now it’s Daiyu’s precious date you are interrupting.” Eri then nodded to us. “I guess I’ll see you later with Shaeula then.” My sis made comedic protests as Eri hauled her off, and the driver, somewhat nervous, started the car again, but a couple of minutes later we arrived at our destination, bustling Harajuku. Instead of allowing our chauffeur to open the door, I got out and helped Daiyu exit, offering her my arm. I told the driver to be ready to pick my sister and Eri up when they were done, though to be honest, we could have sprinted home faster. But it’s not polite to the pedestrians, and Tokyo is particularly busy this Christmas Eve…

Daiyu looked around at the gaudily decorated streets around us, her dark eyes reflecting the lights of all the Christmas decorations strewn around. Numerous Christmas Trees, rows of fairy lights and bright metallic tinsel were decorating the streets and storefronts, but they were outshone by the people flooding the streets.

“This is… quite the spectacle.” Daiyu murmured as she took my hand. Ordinarily, she didn’t approve of walking hand-in-hand, as it made it difficult for both of us to respond to any sudden ambush, but she was also gradually growing more used to life in Tokyo and knew we didn’t have to be alert all the time. “I also trust you.” she finished, her statement seeming to have nothing to do with her first words, and she smiled slightly, in that subtle yet beautifully endearing way she had.

“It takes no great genius to discern what you were thinking. When I held your hand, your eyes shifted. It is true though, I believe you will detect any hostility, even before I do.” Her Qi Perception was radiating out subtly, which was very like Daiyu. Even relaxed, she never fully lowered her guard, always wanting to keep us safe.

“That aside…” Her Japanese was now virtually flawless, indicating her hard work, and I knew her English, while not quite as good, would certainly impress any foreign visitors. “…these fashion choices are… bold.”

“Yeah.” I admired the crowd. While there were indeed a large number of dating couples, as you’d expect, Harajuku was also a riot of women in bold fashions. Gal, gyaru, lolita in all sorts of styles, decora, and even cosplay. “I’ve been dragged here a few times by Aimi-chan and Hina-chan over the years, along with Shiro and the guys. It’s a completely different atmosphere to Akiba, even though there are a lot of similarities. But I thought today…”

Daiyu seemed a little overwhelmed by it all but was clearly curious. I knew she was paying more interest in fashion nowadays, there was no way the others wouldn’t push her to expand her horizons, and one thing was more prevalent in Harajuku than anything else. Women’s fashion. Besides… I reached into my pocket, where a small, wrapped box awaited. No, not yet…

Leading her to one side, several passers-by were eyeing us curiously. Though most of the attention was on me. Of course, Daiyu is attracting plenty of eyes too, she wears her dress well…

“Hi there.” I addressed the oner of the little crepe stall I had approached. “Can we have two please. Daiyu, what flavour would you like?” At her answer of grape, I did the classic move of ordering a raspberry one, so we each had a different variety and could share. Paying the man, I handed her one crepe, which was a feat of dexterity one-handed I’d never have tried before. Taking it, she nibbled at it slowly, before her slight smile returned.

“It is quite rich for a morning, and sweets are a luxury that can affect one’s metabolism, yet… I have found myself becoming rather greedy of late. Greedy…” Her black eyes seemed a little distant, so I offered me a bite of my crepe. She leaned forwards and nibbled at it, before murmuring that it was good, and offering me hers in return. I wasn’t shy, taking a bite.

“I agree. Besides, there are certain days that we can let ourselves loose. Christmas, our birthdays… Valentine’s Day and White Day.” We continued to eat our sweet treats as we headed back into the crowd, though people were looking at us with interest, despite both of us having leashed our Charm and League to minimum levels.

“Bastard, showing off with his girl…” one guy said to his friends, who were also men, probably drowning their sorrows at not having a Christmas girlfriend by coming here to watch the spectacle of Harajuku’s revellers.

“Can I have a bite of your crepe?” one guy groaned, making his voice high and as close to feminine as he could. “Bastards should just die! Such a cliché can’t happen IRL!”

“Wait, don’t you think he’s… no way…” a third groaned, and it seemed like we’d been recognised. I gave him a stern look, urging him to silence, and he paled, nodding, though it seemed keeping a low profile was a lost cause anyway. More and more people were gawking at us, and many of them were looking at their phones, watching some videos. Still, I wanted to avoid being bothered, so I let my League leak out a little, not enough to be stressful to ordinary people, but certainly enough to make them feel a little pressure if they tried to engage us. It’s a good thing Japanese people are quite reserved, and don’t approach others carelessly.

Finishing our crepes as we browsed the street stalls and stands around, I got us drinks, sweet fruit smoothies, which Daiyu liked as they reminded her a little bit of her diet back in her Sect. That reminds me…

“I see Hyacinth and Asha have been working on growing medicinal plants. Some of them seem quite relevant to your interests.”

“That is true.” Daiyu agreed. Despite being distracted by the bustling crowds, she was alert and also focussed on me. “Our Sect’s knowledge of the truly ancient herbs, flowers, seeds and fruits of Kunlun is rudimentary, and even those we know of, such as Thousand-Year Ginseng, are not easy to understand. But there have indeed been some successes. Perhaps, if we had someone more… knowledgeable…” Again, I didn’t miss the slight discomfort there. “…regardless, I am most grateful to their efforts, and even if I cannot directly benefit, my disciples will surely reap the rewards.”

“I knew you’d say that.” I squeezed her hand to convey my affection. “You take their growth seriously. I find that impressive. And I know everyone should be grateful to have you as a teacher. I’m slacking off myself, I apologise.”

“Nonsense. You were simply prioritising other matters.” Daiyu shook her head slightly. I head some gasps and squeals from those around us, and I saw a group of women in similar Chinese dresses to Daiyu looking at her, excited and red-faced. Seeing them, I couldn’t help but smile myself. It reminds me of when Daiyu was first entrusted to my care. Since she wasn’t comfortable with casual clothes, we bought up a lot of the higher quality Chinese cosplay from Akiba and Harajuku. I still very much liked seeing Daiyu in such traditional clothing, but on the occasions when she wore other things, her look was entirely different and fresh.

One girl from the group, wearing a blue qipao, came over. She was adorned with pretty makeup and was the sort of girl who would attract attention, though to me, who was used to beautiful women all around me, it wasn’t anything special. Say, the sort of girl there is a couple of in every class at university, a girl for ordinary guys to dream about. Turning our gazes on her, she faltered a little, before speaking to us, her voice excited.

“Excuse me… that’s a traditional cheongsam, isn’t it?” she asked Daiyu. “And… the materials and craftsmanship are flawless. It’s not cosplay, is it?”

Daiyu glanced at me, and the woman suddenly opened her eyes wide. “Wait, I didn’t really pay attention to you, aren’t you…?”

I burst out laughing, and she shrunk in on herself, face suddenly pale. “I didn’t mean to offend you… oh… oh shit…”

The poor girl looked so panicked that even before I could respond, Daiyu had taken pity on her “Have no fear, my dear Dao Companion is not as petty as that. He is just… unused to being overlooked recently.”

“Only recently, I’d have been flattered in the past.” I chuckled, and colour returned to the girl’s face. Daiyu then inspected her outfit.

“It is not bad, the cut and fit are right, but… the stitching and the patterns are not strictly in line with tradition.” Daiyu’s critical observation attracted the girls’ interest, as the rest of the group crept over. “Still, I realise I am… quite set in my ways. Fashion must change and adapt. I have even worn these jeans on occasion.”

“That’s so strange!” one of the girls dressed like a traditional Chinese woman squealed. “You’re like a Chinese doll. You… are Chinese, right? But your Japanese is so perfect. And…”

“Wait!” One of the girls was confused, opening up her phone. “You’re… you’re the Hero of Britain, aren’t you? But you were in Akiba with a different girl not long ago…”

“I’m experiencing a sweet hell of my own making.” I chuckled. We’d attracted quite the crowd, and I felt bad we were obstructing the flow of people, so I decided to walk and talk. Raising my voice, I offered those around us a humorous warning. “Don’t go cheating, or else you’ll end up having to fit a lot into your Christmas Eve.”

That got some laughter from a number of guys, though a couple looked ashamed and panicked. What surprised me was that even a lot of the women around treated it as a joke or even smiled warmly. Daiyu, seeing my confusion, gave me that slight, brilliant smile again, and several of the girls wearing outfits that matched her flushed, impressed at her cold beauty.

“I am indeed Chinese. Though I was not one of those who caused aggression against this land. In fact, I fought beside Akio against my deluded countrymen.” she insisted. “As for earlier, indeed. Akio’s day is rather like a snake trying to swallow an elephant. It simply does not fit in the snake’s mouth.” At her odd idiom, there was nervous laughter.

“So, that girl earlier…” one onlooker asked, and I answered here wearily.

“Don’t get the wrong idea. That’s my sister, not my girlfriend. She was just having a rough time, so I thought I’d cheer her up.”

“Wow, but from the photos and videos I’ve seen posted over the last hour, you look so intimate…” One of the women was confused, and Daiyu snorted, an unusual gesture for her, as she was usually so refined.

“They are very close siblings. I daresay many would find it enviable. Seeing her unhappy pained him, so he resolved it. As he always does. Now then…”

“Oh, yeah…” The girl who had first approached us was looking guilty. “I feel even worse now I know how busy your day is, but… your dress really is gorgeous. Can I know where you got it? Though I probably can’t afford it.” She tittered nervously. Around her, her similarly dressed friends agreed, and one promised that she didn’t hate the Chinese, and in fact loved their fashion and dramas.

Sadly, anti-Chinese sentiment has been on the rise, despite our efforts in the media to damp it down. But then, I’ve had a more rounded education from mom, so with an outsider’s point of view I can see why most of the countries around here have very rocky relationships…

“Yeah, I’m afraid it’s a custom-made one.” I agreed. Using the same tailors that daughters of nobility use, no less, with cloth from Natsumi’s family, and advice from a renowned Chinese dressmaker who lives in Japan. I quoted the price, not to boast, but just to assure them the quality was commensurate with the price, and the first girl looked down at her hand in shock.

“I’m glad I didn’t touch the fabric now… If I dirtied it, I’d have to sell myself into slavery to cover the cost, and I’m not sure even that’d be enough! Anyway, thanks for including us, and letting us see what true Chinese fashion looks like. I’m sorry to take up your time on your date… the second of many?”

“Fourth, if you count my sister, so maybe we shouldn’t.” I joked, running my free hand through my hair in an abashed manner.

“I see. Yeah, we feel bad, but…” I could see the way they were fidgeting, so I exchanged a glance with Daiyu, and she agreed silently.

“Fine, you can take a few pictures.” It’s not like I haven’t noticed some people surreptitiously snapping shots of us, using the crowd to mask their actions. Again, it’s only a few as the Japanese don’t approve of taking photos of others in secret, if this was some countries the street would be lit up with camera flashes. I had methods that could probably stop that, but there was no need to waste aether. “But then we really must get going. I want to go clothes shopping. While Daiyu does look beautiful in her traditional attire, if a guy can’t spoil his girlfriend on Christmas Eve, when can he?”

I heard several more squeals, and some girls were telling their own boyfriends to follow my example. The girls that had accosted us politely flushed, knowing they were holding us up, and quickly took pictures, before thanking us, and promising not to post them for a couple of hours so as not to further draw attention to us.

Leaving the crowd, we headed further down the street, until we reached a large shopping complex, which Kana had told me was quite famous. I had also been lectured she had always wanted to go there and be able to do more than browse, which she’d never had the money for, so I promised I’d take her there in the future. Laforet Harajuku, huh?

Going inside, we were greeted by numerous clothing stores, from branded, to boutique, to quirky, local designers. It was quieter than the bustling streets outside, but there were still plenty of couples and eager girls browsing. It was also easier for us to keep a low profile, as I had learned from my sis, Kana and others that girls browsing for clothes, especially when someone else was paying, were usually laser-focussed on what was available.

“It seems a little… wasteful.” Daiyu observed, showing the difference of opinion between her and many of my other girlfriends. “Do not mistake me, back at the halls of our Sect, I had to dress with dignity, I could not be seen in shabby robes, yet… to have such diversity of styles and tastes…”

“I can see why you might be confused.” I steered her past a large Christmas Tree that stood at the centre of the first floor and took her into a shop that had caught my eye. Goth-loli, huh? I think with Daiyu’s doll-like appearance and muted emotions she’d look fantastic in black and purple lacy outfits, a bit like Suzu wears. “But it’s like Eri says.” I clicked my tongue, remembering, though I was far from displeased, as I knew Eri was only poking at my sis to help her to unburden herself. “Girls who dress well, who look pretty, have confidence. That’s why even underwear can give courage, even if you know nobody will see it.”

Daiyu understood that. “I suppose it is like the way the other Cultivators addressed me, Black Jade the Ever Beautiful.” Inside the boutique, the owner came hurrying over, eager to make a sale. Her eyes widened in surprise and excitement when she saw Daiyu’s beauty, but then she saw me and went pale and froze, unsure of how to proceed. As she sweated, I waved my free hand to her in a relaxed manner, signalling to her we’d browse ourselves.

“I hated it, finding it condescending, and not indicative of what matters. Quite often, the strong trample flowers simply because they are beautiful.” she observed. “We saw the same, did we not? In Tamamo-no-Mae’s memories.” Again, that momentary pause, that only I, who now knew Daiyu’s heart better than anyone, would have noticed. “Therefore, all flowers need sharp thorns, often venomous, to protect themselves. However…” She gnawed on her lip gently, a rare display of nerves. “…I still, deep down, was pleased to know I was superior, that my charms mattered. Not that I had any interest in men, not then. I sometimes wonder…”

“Oh?” I picked out a few prospective candidates for Daiyu to wear.

“Just what would those who coveted me think, seeing me in such a state? Though perhaps I should wonder… how many remain? The purges…”

It’s rare for her to speak of her past like this. She’s definitely troubled…

“We’re getting intelligence, but it isn’t much. You’ve got that friend there still, haven’t you?” I then turned to the frozen proprietress. “Can she try on these three?” The woman nodded robotically, so I took the dresses off the racks and took Daiyu to the changing rooms at the back. A couple of girls in similar dresses to Suzu saw us coming, blinking in surprise, and they began to whisper and giggle to each other, but I paid them no mind.

“Yes.” Daiyu agreed. “Jang Huifen. Yet I have no wish to risk her by contacting her, nor would she know much of value. She is… woefully unsuited to such matters. At first, I merely wished an outside perspective on matters when we met at that accursed gathering, but she…” Daiyu tilted her head, taking the outfits from me, raising an eyebrow. “…is so timid and helpless one cannot help but wish to protect her. Thinking of that, best you do not meet her. That aside, these? Is this to your taste? If so, Suzu should beware.”

“I don’t think there’s a guy alive that doesn’t love this look.” I showed no embarrassment, and one of the girls gave me a thumbs-up. As Daiyu pulled the curtain, they approached me shyly.

“Uh… hi there. I was wondering…”

“Selfies?” I queried, rather weary of being a spectacle and they dipped their heads, embarrassed.

“I understand what Arisu-san has to go through now.” I grimaced. “Sure, but I think Daiyu should be in the picture too, so nobody gets the wrong idea.” I need some sort of stealth Skill or related Class. I’m sure it must exist… I’ll consult with Tan later, and Rose when she’s not distracted… I could still sense that Rose was doing something important, though occasionally faint prickles of both worry and anticipation pinged at the back of my mind.

The girls giggled knowingly, and we exchanged casual conversation for a minute, before the curtain opened, revealing Daiyu, slightly embarrassed, wearing a purple dress, the skirt lacy and slightly transparent, as well as black stockings. She looked gorgeous, as the delighted mutterings of the girls who had forgotten all about trying on their own clothes indicated. Daiyu spun slowly, giving me a look at the lacy and quite daring back. “How is it?” Her cheeks were faintly pink, and I grinned.

“It’s perfect. I’m definitely having it…”

“But you haven’t tried on… oh, I’m so jealous!” one girl understood, but Daiyu seemed a bit bothered.

“It seems unfair, you did not buy such presents for the others so far.”

“There’s a reason for that.” I once more touched the box in my pocket. “Now, sorry to bother you, but…” We took the selfies the girls wanted, and they excitedly chatted to Daiyu for a few minutes, before she changed into the other outfits. One was a pure white princess dress, which suited her disgustingly well, and the third was an artfully ruffled skirt and top combination. Of course, I bought them all, and bidding farewell to the woman who seemed stunned we had purchased three full expensive outfits, plus some underwear and stockings, we then browsed a number of other stores.

“I am exhausted…” Daiyu grumbled after a while. My arms were laden with bags, almost too many to carry. I’ll pop then into my spatial storage later… “I am not a dress-up doll. Though you very much seemed to enjoy it.”

“I did indeed.” I chuckled. There was a great deal of pleasure in seeing the girls dressed in different fashions to normal. I realised Eri was more cunning than I gave her credit for, as getting my sis out of her usual jeans and t-shirts, giving her a completely different look, helped her, and also me, think differently. “But be honest, you liked it too, didn’t you?”

“I am not greedy. Except when it comes to Cultivation.” Daiyu insisted, as we entered a small, cozy café near the shopping area. I’d made arrangements to give us some privacy, and since the café was only able to seat around a half-dozen couples, it hadn’t taken much to reserve it for an hour. The waitress, dressed in over-the-top yet cute gyaru fashion, greeted us, marvelling over Daiyu’s gorgeous dress. Once seated, Daiyu finished her thoughts.

“Simple luxuries held no interest, though I of course expected things befitting my station. Now though…” She eyed the huge pile of bags wearily. “…I do find myself appreciating these things. Because… I want to look nice for you. And for myself. My pride will not let me be inferior, of no use. I chose you, and you chose me, Dao Companions… a bond that cannot be severed.”

Again, that tremor, hesitation. I think I’ve grasped what’s on her mind, but… it’s like my sis, better to let her put it in her own words, arrange it in her own mind…

“That aside…” Daiyu muttered as a pair of expensive and delightfully fragrant teas, as well as a selection of cakes, scones, local Japanese and imported jams and other toppings were set down by the waitress with a delicacy that impressed even me. “…I feel guilty. To have so many gifts, it feels… like favouritism. And while I believe… nobody… can replace what I have in your heart… such consideration, while appealing, feels wrong.” She took a sip of the tea, nodding approvingly, as it was a Chinese blend, and picked up her silver fork, moving a cake to her mouth, chewing delicately.

“Like I said, there’s a reason for it. Don’t worry, I’ve got everyone a lot of clothes, even if I didn’t have the pleasure of seeing them try them on.” I took a bite of a scone after slathering it with several jams. “Oh, this is good.” I murmured, before continuing. “Anyway, yeah, you’ve got a few more than the others, but that’s because I have a guilty conscience.”

“Oh?” Daiyu raised an eyebrow, delicately wiping cream from her lips. “I am not sure what you could do to make me upset. Yes, I wish to Cultivate more with you, but mastering your Style is something noble. I do believe that with your insight, and the aid of…” Again, that slight pause. “…the knowledge of my Sect, I can likely resurrect, or at least recreate, the combat forms of the Incorruptible Jade.”

“It’s nothing so major. Just… your birthday present.” I eyed Daiyu’s Spatial Storage Ring. “You’ve only had it two weeks, and it’s already obsolete. So…” I pulled out the box I’d prepared. “Here.” I pressed it into her hand. “I know it’s not Christmas yet, but… here’s a little something for you.”

Daiyu seemed surprised, before breaking out into a noticeable smile. “Sometimes it does me good to remember you can be quite the fool. Otherwise your deeds might overawe me.” She took a deep breath, then several sips of her tea to calm her mind. Placing the delicate cup down with a clink on her saucer, she stroked her ring. “Does a treasure cease to be valuable because another, greater treasure is found? I think not. Besides… that fragment of Divine water burns within me, and I sense when I finally become accustomed to it, that shall be a gift without price. Just one more in the many you have given me. It is a pretty ring, regardless, and the intent in which it was given is what makes it special.” She eyed the neatly wrapped box in her palm. “But if it bothers you…” She pulled the ribbon away carefully, and the box was opened, to reveal…

“Oh? This…” She lifted it free, a beautiful carved lotus flower on a delicate platinum chain. The flower itself was a deep black, and it had a pin so it could be doubled up as a hair stick too. “…is this black jade?”

“Yeah. Just like your name. I’m afraid it has no abilities, but… I put my heart into making it.” I had carved it myself, and it was a work of art, though if I had passed it to the Kobolds they could have achieved the same result in a tenth of the time. But since this is a one-off, I wanted to do it myself.

“Then it is truly priceless.” Daiyu used the pin and chain to make it a hair ornament, and the flower joined the red and white ones adorning her lustrous black hair. “Everyone else shall be seeking such from you, I am sure you understand.”

“And they’ll get them, but… I still felt I had to do this for you. No, that’s wrong. I wanted to.” Covering our embarrassment, we ate and drank in silence for a couple of minutes, before Daiyu frowned.

“So, everyone shall be receiving Spatial Rings, then? I do not disagree, it is mightily useful.” She had watched in amusement when I stored all her clothes from earlier when we arrived here. “Having weapons and other tools on hand is a matter of safety. How it amuses me, I had wanted to recreate Spatial Tags, using the Third Noble Pursuit, but lacked the necessary abilities, for now. Talismans are useful, but permanent crafts are surely more functional.”

“Not rings, but I won’t spoil the surprise. You’re right I wanted the gifts to be both functional, practical and beautiful though, so… look forward to it.” Technically, I’ve made them rings too, but those are for a different purpose.

“So considerate.” Daiyu once more gave me that slight, almost teasing smile. “It is well your time is short, and we have an agreement not to indulge our desires today. Else I suspect our Dual Cultivation today would show great results. And exhaust you.” Daiyu picked up her phone, and her eyes widened a little. I asked what was wrong, and she giggled softly, showing me a message from the girls’ group chat. It was my sis and Eri in a café, seeming to have attracted as much attention as we did earlier. The text read that she was extremely embarrassed at being mistaken for my girlfriend. Serves her right. I may have misunderstood what she was going to ask me to do for her, but… seriously, the way she was speaking, anyone would have arrived at the same conclusion. A bit of embarrassment will do her good… and take her mind off things.

“Aiko is indeed amusing.” Daiyu speared a strawberry with her fork, dipped it in rich cream and ate it in several quick bites. “And… in a way, I sympathise with her struggles. Akio…” Her tone changed, suddenly resolute, certain, and I knew it was her deciding to open up at last about what troubled her. “…I too have fears for my place, for… for my future.”

“I see. This might call for something stronger.” I had cleared it with the café when I booked, so while she brought fresh pots of tea, I pulled out a bottle from my own spatial treasure. It was a rich Fae honey wine, made from produce from the Spring, and it went excellently in tea and coffee. I poured myself a generous measure, and Daiyu a smaller one, into our teapots, and the fragrance filled the room. “I’m listening.”

“You always do, even if you do not always understand.” Daiyu teased, which I took as a good sign. Though I won’t be complacent, not after Aiko. “Then let me be frank. I am… troubled. When the Pilgrimage recommences… we shall be travelling to the frozen north, yes? This Hokkaido. Where… Su Caihong, Matriarch of the Ten Thousand Flower Throne, one of the Five Great Sects, not of this land, but of long-forgotten Kunlun, sacred land of Cultivators, awaits.”

I thought so. I said nothing though, merely listened supportively as Daiyu spoke. “Her daughter too. Even she… in power in knowledge…” Swallowing her words, Daiyu’s impassive face was crossed by a brief frown. “She may be gravely injured, preserved by miraculous efforts of a powerful spiritual being and the artifice of that treacherous monk, yet… I know it well. Even if her wounds, both spiritual and physical, are too severe to treat immediately, you will stabilise her, and in time, they shall both recover. Her strength, as a genuine Saint, even in this world with its paucity of Earthly Qi… it shall be frightening. Yet, that is not… not the worry I have. With Tamamo-no-Mae in your debt, and Taṇhā willing to aid you, any rioting and rage may be quelled, hopefully before damage irreparable to this Boundary is caused.”

Daiyu sipped at her now potent tea, idly enjoying more of the small but beautiful cakes and scones. “I was both awed and terrified to experience a merest breath of a Tribulation. And seeing even a fraction of Kunlun in its fading glories is something I shall always treasure. But… I am your Cultivator, your Dao Companion. Yet… the legacy of the Incorruptible Jade is nothing but trash compared to what Su Caihong knows.”

“I think you are being hard on yourself. Wasn’t your Sect second tier, still a major one in Kunlun?” I disagreed.

“The gulf between those at the peak and those below is as vast as the gulf between Heaven and Earth.” Daiyu disagreed. “We resented them, hated them for stealing away Kunlun, abandoning us, yet… we would have made the same choice. Were the Incorruptible Jade chosen to depart with Kunlun, we would never have looked back. That aside, our knowledge is perhaps but a tenth of those of the Five Great Sects. We had our specialties, where we could almost match them, but in other areas…” She blinked at me, her onyx eyes earnest. “…that hardly matters. What does is… I cannot contribute, not in comparison. If you, with help from Tamamo-no-Mae, win them to your side… in comparison, I will be…” She paused, as I was suddenly hugging her, purple sparks flashing.

“That is wasteful…” she grumbled, but I only squeezed her tighter.

“No, it’s not. Soothing your cares is a worthy use of any of my powers.” I stroked her hair, touching the carved lotus flower ornament. “And you know…” I put on a teasing, pompous smile as she looked up at my face. “…you’re already wise, Daiyu, because you already gave the answer earlier?”

“I did?” she asked, and I leaned down and whispered in her ear, tickling her with my breath.

“You did, but… I want a reward for telling you. This is a date, after all.”

“A reward?” Daiyu asked, and then her eyes widened as I took her lips. Her mouth opened and my tongue surged in, met by hers. We kissed deeply and passionately, and I ignored the amused glances of the waitress behind us. When our lips parted, Daiyu’s face was slightly flushed, her breath coming fast.

“That was nice.” I teased, and Daiyu’s flush deepened. She opened her mouth to protest, and once more we kissed. That repeated several times, until she pouted.

“If you wish to kiss more, later! Right now…”

“Oh, it’s a promise then.” I laughed, calming her down. “But…” I took her hand, stroking her ring. “…didn’t you tell me that a treasure doesn’t lose its value because another one is found? Besides, you’re not just useful, you said it yourself earlier, we have a bond that can’t be severed. Aren’t you just the wisest?”

“You are quite cheeky today.” Daiyu managed at last, settling into my hug, relaxing a little. “You are holding my arms, yet I am hungry…” She gave me an oddly coquettish stare, and so I moved a fork with a little aether, bringing another strawberry to her mouth, which she ate with lips the same shade.

“So wasteful, yet so charming…” Daiyu chuckled. “I wonder, are you improving these dates as you gain more experience? If so, maybe I should have gone last.”

“Don’t worry. If that’s the case, then your next date, of which there will be endless, will benefit from my greater Skill Ranks.” I made a teasing joke. “I’m glad you seem calmer now. But I’ll say it again. Daiyu, it’s not your knowledge I’m in love with, but you.” I let that sink in, but knowing her pride, I admitted that her knowledge was still a treasure to me as well. “It’s not just that, is it?” I surmised. “If I had to say… you’re worried about how this will affect the plans to revive your Sect?”

Daiyu nodded, head against my shoulder, hair giving off a subtle fragrance. “It is preying on my mind, certainly. Su Caihong, the Matriarch of Ten Thousand Flower Throne… from what little we saw, and from what Tamamo-no-Mae has intimated… I can surmise she is prideful and despises men. That reassures me a little.” Daiyu managed some humour as I fed us both by using my aether. “It makes it less likely she will show interest in you.”

“That’s your worry?” I chuckled. “It’s Mae who saved her and her daughter. I’m just going to help Mae tidy up at the end.”

“And that great and terrible nine-tailed fox… you have her curiosity.” Daiyu warned, before shaking her head. “That aside… it would trouble me, but… if she wishes ten thousand flowers to bloom again… my jade shall be swallowed by the field of blossoms. None shall wish to learn from my meagre knowledge in comparison.”

“You’re wrong. We’ll keep learning.” I promised. “But… I think worrying is premature. Whatever happens, I promised you that I’d help you restore your Sect, and I don’t break my promises. Often.” I corrected, and Daiyu snickered.

“Yes, except when it comes to falling in love. But while it was strange for me to have a Dao Companion who had other lovers, I had both eyes open. The darkness may conceal, but there is no darkness so deep as closing one’s eyes to the truth.” She considered her next words carefully. “I know your government is working with the Cultivators we captured after Kyoto. It is of no concern to me… the country I fled from is not my country now, and they already gave me their knowledge and treasures. But… one day I would reclaim our shattered halls, our dignity, take it all back…”

“And you will…” I agreed. “I’m glad you told me about this. I didn’t think of how the return of a more knowledgeable, powerful Cultivator could make you fret. But…” I kissed her again. “…set that aside for today and tomorrow, all right? Because I want to show you and the others a Christmas to remember.”

“Fine.” Daiyu agreed, pursing her lips, inviting another kiss. That done, I returned to my seat, and we were given more tea. The waitress winked at us, clearly amused by our passionate embrace, and I shrugged, embarrassed. You’d think I was used to showing affection in front of others by now, I guess my Japanese and British reserve is still going strong…

“Oh.” Daiyu remarked, her phone giving off more pings. Her face showed a subtle smile once more, and she slid it back into her pocket. “It seems that your sister is quite popular. And the expression on her face… it is far more natural. I know all too well the desire to appear strong, to seem in control.” Before I could ask her about the messages, as I hadn’t received any yet, and wasn’t part of the private group chat the girls shared, for obvious reasons… I remember asking about it once. Shiro told me that the whole point was that I couldn’t know, as girls needed their private places to unwind and gossip… about me, usually… “Speaking of dates, how is Hinata?” Daiyu questioned me, changing the subject.

“Having a good time. The Spring is beautiful, and there’s a performance by the weaselkin musicians. And she gets to count our profits. She likes that too…”

Daiyu stifled a laugh, though a light chuckle still leaked out. “Yes. Still, wealth is a universal desire. Even we Cultivators have our currencies.” I worried she might be disheartened again, but she seemed to be feeling better. “Spirit Stones were said to be the primary currency of Kunlun, though… I fear the method for obtaining or creating them is lost, at least to us.” Daiyu waved her fork for emphasis. “I had suspected they were rather like Etherites, but… if anyone knows, Su Caihong will. I would be curious to discover the truth… as I suspect would Hinata be.”

“No kidding!” I agreed. Fortunately my appetite was heartier nowadays, but having eaten so many treats, I knew I’d have to work my body later, as it was likely I’d be eating several more meals during the rest of the day. Daiyu must have understood, as she popped the last cake, this one a small macaroon, into her mouth and swallowed it quickly, licking sugar from her lips. Pulling out her phone, she checked the time again.

“Oh, it seems time does fly when one is having fun with their Dao Companion. These phones are indeed convenient, but I never really had to worry much about the time when I was back at my Sect. We judged by the ringing of the hour bells. I dare say you would consider it primitive.” She sighed then. “I do now as well. We believed Cultivation was pure, and technology and learning somewhat base. A joke. After all, Qi cannot stop steel. Or so it was. In the past, in Kunlun’s time, that was not true. And now… it is once more a lie. Still, whether or not Qi can stop steel, it cannot stop progress. Perhaps I should have worn a watch, but it does not mesh with my cheongsam. Though if it was elegant enough… I should have checked them…”

Funny you should say that. After tomorrow, it won’t be an issue. After all… the main gift everyone was receiving would definitely suit her needs. Changing the subject, I waved over the waitress, asking for two coffees to perk us up. As she nodded and scurried off, I smiled at Daiyu. “Yes, time is ticking, but it’s not wasting. And I’ll squeeze out every minute with you, my ever-beautiful Daiyu.”

Flushing at my use of her nickname, she sighed in defeat, reaching out and clasping my hand. “I can see I should not have admitted I secretly was not displeased to be address as such, despite my stern exterior. Well then, since we have a little time remaining, then how about I choose our final stop? I have been given some small advice by the others…”

That’s fine by me. After all, be it you, Daiyu, or Hinata, or any of the others, and yes, even my demanding, needy sister, I don’t mind leading, but I’m also happy to follow you all to wherever you wish to go…