Sora Memoria : Remembering Why We Fly

by 7siiver7, HitheroNihil

Summary:

Inspired by the season one ending "Sentimental Crisis," the journey takes place in an alternate world with angelic girls bearing wings of light. Known as "Lumiens," these beings have consolidated under one clan -- one empire, to rule the skies.

And on the other side of the world, humanity is on the brink of aviation. Hundreds of bright minds work everyday, competing against each other to lead the new era of technology. All so they can be able to soar where they never thought they could before.

When things slowly start to fall into strife, the heiress of the Lumien Empire and a young determined airplane engineer have a chance meeting. When surrounded by political intrigue, the threat of war, and the discovery of feelings for one another, how will they navigate going forward?

Chapter 1: The Princess in the Moon

Notes:

My passion for the anime, my love for the characters and their struggles, and my spirit for flying.

"Sentimental Crisis" and its animated portrayal of all of these things combined is a masterpiece that became my obsession. Finally, I recently decided to put my feelings onto paper, and sought guidance which I found in the form of HitheroNihil.

This story is the result, pouring our brains, heart, and soul into its making; it wouldn't have been possible without my newfound friend.

Come follow the journey of our beloved characters, and together learn what it means to fly.

- 7siiver7 (A Weeby Pilot)

“Dad, dad!”

The boy’s footsteps echoed against the wooden floor as he ran across the house, growing louder until he reached his father sitting at his dimly lit desk. Stationary tools, blueprints, books, and airplane models lay sprawled across it. The father turned to face him, eyebrow raised.

“What is it, Miyuki?" he asked.

“Can you tell me the story about the moon princess?” Miyuki bounced eagerly, smiling with anticipation.

“Huh, again?” The father exaggeratingly exclaimed. “ You’ve asked me this for three nights in a row.”

“But it’s my favorite story! And tomorrow’s the lunar eclipse! Isn’t it perfect?”

The father hummed. “Did you finish all the work I told you to do?”

He nodded energetically. The father sighed, stood up, and exited the room. His smile grew bigger, and ran after him. They walked outside to the porch, and stepped out underneath the starlit night.

A planetary ring shone brilliantly in silver blue, arcing across the horizon before its glow disappeared midway, blending into the abyss. The half towards the west was still illuminated by the sun hidden below the horizon; the planet’s shadow eclipsed the rest of the ring in darkness. They raised their heads and looked towards the moon; it was a sight to behold. Half of its body was shattered, leaving a bright trailing cloud of its fragments across the night sky, like a rolling teardrop reflecting glints of light.

Shirogane gawked in fascination, entranced by the sight as they gazed at its sheer beauty. The shattered moon also struck a hint of sadness in Shirogane, but he didn't really understand why yet.

“Hey,” A voice called out from behind them. His younger sister emerged from the doorway. "What are you guys up to?"

“Kei! Dad’s about to tell us the story of the moon princess!”

“I know, I could hear you from a mile away, idiot. And I’m not here for the story. I just couldn’t focus because you two were so noisy.” She walked outside, stretching her arms.

“Though, since I have nothing else to do now...” she declared, joining them in their stargazing.

The father cleared his throat, began to recite the tale.

“Time before history, the gods of the heavens ruled over the world. With stardust, fire, and water, they created mankind. They commanded them to grow and cultivate the world to make it beautiful, and to serve and worship. But the Gods disagreed on how mankind should live and serve, and argued over control of the world. They fought and waged war, making their subjects fight for them. Mountains melted, seas boiled, and the skies were alight in ash & flame.

During the war, the Princess of the Moon fell from the heavens, down to earth. She was found by a boy in a distant land untouched from conflict. The princess was afraid, but as the boy showed kindness, she began to grow with awe and curiosity for the world we lived on; the boy taught the princess about life, love, and beauty of the universe from the perspective of mankind.

The Princess was inspired, happy, then soon fell in love with the boy. She did not want to return to her home ravaged in war above.

One day, the heavens were destroyed and the moon broke apart. Its pieces fell and lay waste to the world, gravely injuring the boy. The princess, torn by grief and guilt from the belief that she was responsible, reluctantly decided to return to heaven in order to stop the destruction and restore balance and order. With her powers, she left the boy an elixir of immortality, and departed. The boy, unwilling to live without the princess, poured the elixir into the earth and died. The essence of the elixir spread through the world, enchanting it, and thus Lumiens were born.

With no gods left from the war to serve, humans and lumiens alike were left to freely choose how they lived. Some say they’re souls that fell from heaven to carry out the will of the princess. Others say it’s a curse that embodies the wishes of the boy, constantly trying to fly to the princess far above, unable to reach her.”

As he finished the story, the sound of silence returned. They all continued to watch the moon in contemplation.

Kei spoke. “I don’t know why you like the story so much—it’s all about dumb gods, war, and tragic stuff. The boy and the princess couldn’t be together anymore, so he chose to die. And everyone still fights today, so the princess couldn’t bring peace. What was the point of all of it?"

Shirogane didn’t break his gaze, and pursed his lips in thought.

“Why do you think the princess gave the boy an elixir to live forever?” He asked, more so speaking his mind than replying to his sister.

She waited for him to explain, so he continued. “Everything he knew was destroyed; his home, his land, his family. And the princess had to leave him. It would be a terrible life to live after that. But I don’t think the princess was being thoughtless; I think she was trying to tell him something.”

“Tell him what?” Kei humored.

“I think she meant to say, ‘Wait for me. Someday I’ll come back. Even if it takes longer than a lifetime, I’ll find a way for us to be together again.’ But the boy was too heartbroken to understand it, and chose to die instead, leaving her all alone.”

He reached his hand out towards the moon, as if trying to grasp it and pull it close. “But I wouldn’t let that happen. If there was someone I loved that was as beautiful and amazing as the princess, I wouldn’t let it end like that. Even if the world is destroyed, I’ll try to find a way to fly above the earth  and reach the moon; I’ll find a way to get her back.” He smiled, and closed his fist around the moon, his spirit filled with determination.

His father smiled. “Love is interesting, isn’t it? It can make the coldest heart happy and stupid, and drive you to reach farther beyond what anyone can imagine; it may even surpass lifetimes.

“Miyuki, if you ever meet someone like that, become the man who will reach the moon, and seize it.”

He turned and walked back inside. “Get ready for bed kids, it’s getting cold.”

Kei glanced at her brother still entranced by the night sky. She sighed, and returned inside as well, leaving him alone in his thoughts.

Chapter 2: Lumenkind

Standing underneath the azure sky, feet against the cool waves on the beach, stood a young girl bathing in the sunlight. Her rich golden hair was tied to the side in a ponytail, reflecting the glow of the rays. She had piercing eyes of sapphire, which stared up at the broken moon and the rings surrounding the planet. Huge masses of puffy, towering clouds loomed in the distant horizon.

To her opposite, another girl stood two dozen meters away. She had purple hair pulled into twintails, accented by rose-red eyes. In between the girls stood their tall imposing instructor, who handed over ribbons to tie behind their waists. They wore tight-fitting aerobic suits fit for aerodynamic training. The royal yellow and orange embellishments stood out plainly against the bright sky. 

“Ready yourselves,” the instructor commanded crisply. 

The blonde girl gently shut her eyes, slowing her perception with her breathing. She cleared her mind of all internal clutter and anxiety, and exhaled. Her body relaxed, and her sense of surroundings dissolved, with only her heartbeat being the loudest sound she could hear. 

 

Inhale.

Exhale.

Feel the tranquility in your mind and heart. 

 

The surrounding air began to heat up. The light behind her shimmered outwards. Magnificent tendrils sprouted from her back and took form all around her, glowing brighter and brighter with every second. Inhale, exhale. Then, she opened her eyes... 

 

Now rise. 

 

A spirituous gust of wind and light flared from her, blowing away sand and rippling the water. Her irises were aglow with an added hue. Her aura of light resembled a pristine nebula in broad daylight. Inside, she was at fragile peace, fighting to maintain a clear head while wrestling her sudden surge of energy. Her hair fluttered about in august, windswept fashion. 

On the other side, her rival was also enveloped in ethereal brilliance. They eyed each other like dangerous creatures. Their instructor adjusted their helmet patiently. Pulling out an hourglass, he gestured sharply to the blonde girl, and flipped it upside-down. 

 

“Ai Hayasaka.”

 

Her face contorted furiously. The tendrils lashed out even more, energy pulsing through like lightning. They unfolded into a pair of majestic wings, which stretched slightly higher than her, displaying her sense of will. She returned a curt nod. 

 

In a powerful bellow, the instructor yelled, “Ascend!” 

 

Both girls shot into the air. Rapidly, they accelerated up, limbs bound to their bodies to mimic arrows from a bow. Their massive appendages stormed, leaving behind a trail of vapor in their wake. 

In this exercise, Her role was to hunt down Reyna, her opponent. She needed to snatch the ribbon attached to her belt, while she fled to prevent it. A vertical climb was her way to go, a contest of pure power. Whoever climbed faster and higher would maintain an overwhelming advantage. Reyna was pridefully among the top sprint-climbers of her class, which would make it a great tactic. 

Yet so was Hayasaka. 

While their flight has only been thirty seconds, it already felt like eternity. Her chest throbbed with effort, her lungs burning as her wings blazed. But eventually, she found herself slowly yet steadily gaining upon her rival. Reyna pushed to keep her from closing the gap, but Hayasaka was gaining on her. 

Unable to outclimb, Reyna turned and dove away to gain speed, Hayasaka following in pursuit. The great blue reflection of the ocean far below shimmered dazzlingly. She jinked and rolled back and forth, attempting to throw her off. She decided not to follow through, instead matching her movements to conserve energy while Reyna bled through hers. She just has to wait for the right moment to strike, as once they reach the surface, there’ll be nowhere left to run.  

Hayasaka shadowed her through another sharp turn. Reyna’s tendrils flickered, disrupting her momentarily and she fell out of the curve. Hayasaka’s lips barred into a fierce grin. She pushed herself to the limits, expending her all into one decisive action that could triumph the entire match. Reyna tilted back to check on Hayasaka. 

Hayasaka zeroed in on her, her hand outstretched and ready to snatch away that ribbon. But then, to her astonishment, Reyna cut an aggressive turn, her wings erupting into an inferno. Caught by surprise too late, she blew right past. Cursing, she turned her head and saw Reyna diving away. 

While she was duked into a severe drawback, she could still make up for it using the remaining stamina she had. Reyna seemed to be tiring, and could weaken at any moment. This would be her last chance to truly catch her, and despite becoming quite drained herself, she was determined to come out the winner. 

Pride could be the death of you, chided her unflappable instructor once. 

Decision made, Hayasaka inhaled a deep gust of breath, and her wings flared. Prepared for the final sprint, she pursued her foe into the turn, her bright aura intensifying. Realizing she followed, Reyna strained to make the tightest radius turns possible. They dove down together in a helical spiral, staring across from each other in the maneuver as the surface rapidly approached. Sustaining extraordinary force, trying to stay coordinated became increasingly crucial. Reyna’s ribbon was just a few paces away. 

A few agonizing moments later, Reyna’s wings dimmed. Reaching out for the ribbon, Hayasaka aimed for the clasp… 

 

---

 

The recovery ward echoed with the footsteps of its attendants. They heeded the authority of an eminent young lady, whose quiet voice exuded more jurisdiction than anyone could imagine. She commands absolute obedience, evidenced in her gentle, yet stern manner of addressing the occupants. 

Hayasaka inclined on her bed, looking resigned. Her mistress had been chastising her for her arrogant display of flying. She had been laying before Kaguya Shinomiya, heiress of the Lumien Imperata. She was her direct personal servant and bodyguard. Despite their equivalent age, Lady Kaguya was cold, calculative, and resolute, and combining both her wits and her sharpness, it made her a truly fearsome leader. 

“Ability and pure will are traits to take pride in only if exercised properly,” she was saying. “but it seemed to only fill you with recklessness. How easily could you have perished for nothing? 

“We are the pride of Lumenkind, not mere mindless birds. Such shameful behavior will not be tolerated, especially from you. Disciplinary training will correct it as such upon your release from the ward.” When she finished berating, Kaguya sighed. “I’m disappointed, Hayasaka; I expected better from the person chosen to become my hand servant. Don’t you have anything to say for yourself?” 

She was already too familiar with this treatment, though it didn’t help the pounding headache beneath her ice pack. But there’s nothing much to say except to be polite. 

“No, I do not, milady Kaguya.” 

During the exercise, she and Reyna pushed themselves too far. In their intensity as well as their hubris, they failed to notice their instructor’s warning signal to abort the test. The instructor managed to call upon the backup to rescue them before the crash into the ocean at a lethal speed. Of course this wouldn’t be overlooked easily. 

Kaguya gazed at her deeply. She was a very beautiful girl, wearing a noble dark and white silk dress masterfully embroidered with exquisite patterned flowers. She had smooth, flawless skin, a perfectly pale complexion, and gorgeous black hair to match. But most captivating of all were her eyes; rich, enchanting, and pure like the finest of rubies, mildly adorned with the lushness of the rose. Yet these eyes can command authoritarian respect and project fear into absolutely anyone, lacing her irises with an unspoken ice that was venomous to even contemplate. 

Divine beauty that could entrance and terrify; she was the embodiment of that. Befitting the governor of a province, and a potential heir of an empire. A chill ran down Hayasaka’s spine. 

Kaguya spoke again. “For now, you are to compose a letter of apology to your instructor. Report back to me immediately after you’ve recovered.” With nothing more to say, she turned to leave, her hair flowing about as she sauntered. A pair of guards escorted her out. 

Reyna also sat in bed across the room, with her head bowed quietly. She raised one cautious eyebrow to her colleague. With a straight face, Hayasaka opened her hands, revealing the ribbon she had caught and had placed in her clothes. Reyna smirked, and she winked back at her. 

Hayasaka collapsed backwards into her bed. She pulled the blanket closer as she thought again of what her instructor said long before. Pride could be the death of you. Slowly, she closed her eyes and drifted into an uneventful sleep. 

 

---

 

The rollicking of the sea drew Kaguya’s gaze as she made her way back from her meeting with Hayasaka. 

Her servant was a descendant of a prominent line of Lumien warriors who were the former rulers of this province. The region in the archipelago was contested by multiple Lumien clans, who engaged in skirmishes both with the local leaders and amongst themselves, in a greedy effort to annex the territory for expansion. 

Nao Hayasaka, Ai’s mother, was the province’s ruler and remained unconquered for a long time. That is, until a decade ago when the Shinomiya clan, recognizing itself as the Lumien Imperata, rose en masse and managed to capitulate the region. 

During the peace talks, Nao agreed to personally serve the Imperial family for the sake of preserving their bloodline. The Shinomiya clan held a begrudging respect for the warrior, being the toughest and hardest one to defeat, let alone kill. Seeing how she held against at least a dozen of the Imperata’s elite forces, Kaguya’s mother, who was Empress at the time, acknowledged the usefulness of her and her daughter, and arranged them to serve as their bodyguards while also providing some minor autonomy to their former state. 

Thus Ai underwent rigorous training very early in her childhood. While the Empress kept Nao close, she was assigned to Lady Kaguya who was similarly bred since childbirth to rule. When Kaguya’s mother passed away untimely, her father became Emperor-regent, who later sent her to govern the province in his place. 

It may seem foolish to the blind eye to have one’s defeated enemy become not only your bodyguard and servant, but to co-lead their puppeted homeland, lest they could betray you and ignite an insurgency. But the Empress knew that the Hayasakas’ primary goal is the preservation of their bloodline. And by assigning their ex-leader to the Emperor’s side and the heiress to another, they’ve created a rift that would be difficult to lead proper rebellion, or even at least perform influential decisions. 

As they say, keep your friends close, and your enemies closer. 

And most importantly, the Imperial family is usually the safest place to be, if just as deadly to be next to beings of extraordinary power. Their obligatory protection is sustained by their service. If they fail to fulfill their duties, they may be executed. Their duty to fight was not only for the Imperata, but for themselves too. 

As natural with any conquest, partisan movements are likely to follow, with the end goal of kicking out the ruling power and redeclaring sovereignty. By assigning Ai as vice-governor, the populace may be slightly appeased by the idea of being governed by her, and it later attributed to the return of stability in the region. Yet there are still nationalists with a grudge against the Imperata, and there are rumors of plots against Kaguya’s life. She would have to be vigilant. 

There was also a risk of invasion by a foreign nations willing to usurp the Imperata’s territories. That’s why Kaguya disdained the sea, since that’s how they would most likely invade. Especially the humans; sailing in with their iron-spitting vessels and their gunpowder weaponry. As powerful as Lumenkind is compared to mankind, it’s not enough to control their skies, as humanity certainly outnumbers the Lumiens. 

Records included Lumien usage of fire to set their invading fleets ablaze, stranding or sinking them before they could ever reach the shores. It was laughable to see them come up with ways of countering their air superiority. But the Imperata has only recently been considering a naval fleet, due to the growing expansionist sentiments from those at Court. The possibility of war is ever greater with the far human nations of the Occident, who favored innovation the most over their warmongering neighbors. 

The Imperata has tried to invade one of those countries before, but it was a very costly war in financial terms. And despite winning, the number of unnecessary casualties only resulted in a pyrrhic victory. It’s been nearly a century without a war, yet it wouldn’t be surprising if that nation managed to form an alliance of like-minded allies to launch a campaign against the Imperata. 

Kaguya paused at the sudden thought of gunpowder displays. While she disliked most loud noises, she made an exception for the beautiful cacophony of fireworks, a human invention imported from a peaceful nation. It had been proven spectacular in times of festivities for the populace, who rejoiced in all the colorful lights and explosions. 

She always wanted to attend one herself, but she was never meant to, due to her social status. Instead, she resigned herself to admiring from afar, one of the only few things she thanks humanity for. 

Taken out of her reverie by her attending guards, she resumed her stroll back to the Palace, remembering the earlier reports of unknown ship sightings within the Imperata’s sovereign sphere. She hastened, a mildly unpleasant feeling stirring inside. 

Chapter 3: Humankind

Notes:

Update 9/14/23 -- Minor revisions in Chapter 3: Humankind

“You know, I want to quit school.”

“Yeah, that sounds like a good idea…” Books fall to the floor. The young Shirogane immediately turned to his downtrodden friend. “What are you thinking, Ishigami?! I’d be lonely without you! ” 

The two of them knelt down to gather the books. 

“It’s those other students. Especially the girls. They look like they want to murder me.” 

“We’re just a few months into the new semester. We may be outsiders, but we wouldn’t be scorned that much. It’s no use dying so early in the school year.”

They resumed their walk. “You don’t understand, man. I can tell about five or six percent of what they think just by looking at their eyes. I can tell they don’t want me here.” “Anybody can do that. You’re putting too much faith in that six percent.” 

It is true that Shirogane has noted the divide between those who seemed privileged and those who worked hard to earn their place. It’s a mere educational institute, but there’s already some social hierarchy between the sets of masses. For a time, he thought he didn’t fit in either. He didn’t want Ishigami to think the same.

Well, no matter what they think, students are students, and they have schoolwork to submit. Most take it easy and downplay the importance of academics, but Shirogane knows better. For him, it’s one of the things he’s the best at. Ridicule turned into jealousy when they saw him climb the ranks and achieve the first place in the examination ranks. 

He can do anything he sets his passion to, such as studying. He’s physically fit from moving about all the time and knows how to fly a plane. However, what most don’t know is that he is a klutz in most areas. If he listed off all the things he embarrassingly flops at, he would start to behave more like Ishigami. 

It was another routine visit to drop off their assignments. While the more talented bulk of the school prefers to do sports first and studies after, Shirogane had always emphasized being free of obligations. Not needing to do any homework gives them all the time they need for other pursuits. 

After leaving the faculty office, Shirogane made a proposition to Ishigami. “It’s been a while since we visited town square. Why don’t we take a detour on the way to the airfield?” 

 

---

 

The two boys made their way through the genial residential district. Coming from atop the hill, down to the slope leading into town, the two boys descended into the stone-paved streets. Even on the path, the striking colors of the merchant stalls over in the trade quarter were clear on a bright day. People, carts, and vehicles passed through the busy intersections of the central roads. 

And beyond the smaller businesses on the market district’s rim were dozens upon dozens of multi-storey buildings. Civilians were aplenty, everywhere you looked. This was the beauty of the Grand Port of Laiden; a bastion of liveliness and prosperity. 

The teenagers soon entered the bazaar. Standing in the archway, they paused to take it all in. They might have been here many times before, but the scale of it always draws gasps every time; a hundred conversations were happening at any given time. From merchants showing off their wares, to bakers and chefs hawking their fresh delights, to customers haggling down the best prices. Stores occupied the ground floors of the buildings with signs and banners hanging above.  They hadn’t agreed on what exactly they would do before coming, instead deciding to go with the flow. The pair merged with the rest of the crowd, scanning the stalls for anything that interests them. 

Delicious aromas quickly occupied their senses. Their eyes were drawn to the steam from a group of food stalls, grilling and frying food in tandem with clattering kitchenware; pizzas baking in wood-fired ovens, spiced pork chops searing on griddles, and chicken being deep fried. Most particular was the smell of coal-roasted sausages. Shirogane moistened his lips. 

“I’m getting a sausage,” he said to Ishigami. “You want one?” 

“Nah, I’m thinking of getting a veggie kebab instead.” 

Nodding to one another, they saunter up to the stalls to make their purchases. Shortly after, they resume their stroll with their skewers in hand, chewing as they go. Ishigami watched his friend eat through his food, and grinned. “So you favor the wieners, my man?” 

“Shut your dirty mouth,” Shirogane retorted. 

As they walked, they passed more and more stalls. Ishigami taps his shoulder and points to a windowed shop. “I wanna drop by the bookstore real quick.” They weaved through the crowd and popped inside. The place was quieter, filled with the acrid smell of aged paper. The mahogany interior outlined the frame of the room, from the beams to the bookshelves. 

Brushing aside his dark hair, Ishigami walked up to the publications section and started flipping through the latest issues. Shirogane busied himself in the novels section, browsing the different genres. 

The bookstore mostly catered to informational literature. Shirogane often looked for material to enhance his technical knowledge for his projects. It wasn’t that he disliked regular literature, he just invested more time in books related to his studies. But he wanted to try something new for a change, so he decided to look for something he can get, either for him or for his younger sister. She had become more reserved lately though, so he wasn’t sure what she’d like.  

Since most of the books were quite expensive, he quickly looked them over. He decided to leave before Ishigami until something caught his eye. A dark blue book leaned by itself facing out. He walked over to pick it up. 

The cover was painted tenderly. It felt raw and chaotic, yet somehow harmonious with all the elements blended together. It was a portrait of an angel soaring through the clouds. She had porcelain skin and lustrous black hair, and a white flowing dress. Her face was expressionless, yet noble in a way. In the background was an arcane sky filled with many silver rings, painted in singular strokes. 

On the backside was another portrait, that of a shattered moon whose pieces fractured into a glittering trail. There were no engravings of any sort on the covers or the spine.  

How strange, thought Shirogane. 

He opened the book, and choked in astonishment. Rather than words, he gazed upon a beautifully drawn pencil sketch, depicting a landscape of forest and hills along a lake. The rough yet carefully crafted details emphasized by each stroke brought depth as if he was sitting there, frozen in that moment. It evoked the sense that this was something very precious. 

With shaking fingers, he flipped through more pages. There were a variety including cloudscapes and sunsets, as well as city streets and animals, mainly birds and felines. Some were messy and incomplete, while others were masterpieces that clearly took significant time and care.

He then found a series of rather abstract sketches of what appeared to be feathery wings, drawn very fluidly and wispy. There were dozens of them over a few pages; he could not make sense of it.

Halfway through as he flipped to the next page, rather than another drawing, he found a single line of perfect calligraphy in a foreign language he could not read. The rest of the sketchbook’s pages were blank, unused.

He continued to look for clues in the corners and sides of the book. The shelf it came from didn’t hold anything either, as the other books didn’t seem out of the ordinary. He flipped through the entire thing one last time before giving up, inclining his head in confusion. 

Seeing Ishigami looking back at him while waiting in the door, he decided to take the book to the clerk. Turning it over, he wondered, what could be the purpose of this peculiar book? 

============================================================ 

While continuing their stroll through the bazaar, Shirogane thought about the book in his bag. No matter how many times he tried, he struggled to make sense of it. The clerk didn’t recognize it when it was shown to them, nor was there any record of it ever being in the shop. He managed to get it for cheap with the remaining change he had. 

“Ishigami, what do you think of this?” Shirogane decided to show him the book. 

He eyed the ethereal painting on the cover, frowning. “I don't think I’ve seen it before... Is it a fantasy novel of some sort?” 

“No, and as a matter-of-fact, take a look.” he opened the book.

Ishigami’s eyes widened as he witnessed the brilliant works of art across the aged white papers.

“Whoa…that’s incredible. I can’t believe they had something like this. Who’s the artist?

“No idea, there’s nothing written anywhere. Well except for…” he flipped to the middle of the book with the cryptic line.

“I can’t read it,” he analyzed the foreign language. “Did you ask where it came from?” 

“I did. They had no clue to its origins. It wasn’t even recorded in the shop’s logs. The paper is old, but it’s kept in really good condition.”

Ishigami had the book passed over, and stared intently at the cover. He thought it felt familiar. Shirogane watched him size it up. He muttered, “What? You think the girl is cute?”

He nodded. “I just thought she matched up with something I heard of long ago. A rumor, if you will. Overheard it from my dad and older brother. They were talking about ‘Lumiens’, I think.” 

“Lumiens?” He stopped in his tracks; he hadn’t heard that word in a long time.

“I don’t know if the story is true… but apparently a distant nation was invaded by them. They said their warriors were females with wings of light. They came down from the heavens with their swords raised, diving from the sky.”

“That’s outlandish.” Shirogane remarked. 

“I know, right? It really just felt like some drunken fireside tale to me. Still, it’s interesting gossip. However, that reminded me of this.”

Shirogane’s eyebrows furrowed in concentration. “Lumiens, correct?” 

“Yeah. They sound like magical creatures. Although a logical society like Laiden would definitely dismiss it.” 

“Is there a way to find out more?” He probed. 

“I don’t know. The library had burned down a few decades ago, but this story dates back a century. It just feels crazy to think about it.” 

“But what if it’s true? That there are such things as Lumiens?” 

Ishigami shrugged. “I don’t know what to think. All I know is that it was hearsay I managed to catch, and this book of yours made me recall it.” 

They let the conversation rest in a few minutes of silence. A little later, they found a bench, so they decided to rest for a bit. Shirogane still thought about the concept of Lumiens. To him, they sounded like humans that were born to fly. Something gnawed at him that wanted to be expressed and dealt with. He decided to share it with Ishigami. 

“What do you think is the difference between Lumenkind and mankind?” 

Ishigami pondered. “I mean they can fly.” 

“But if you were to take that away, wouldn’t we essentially be the same?” 

“Well… if you put it like that, I guess so.” 

“Indeed. But that also begs the question: if we could fly just like the Lumiens, would we ever have invented airplanes? Since necessity is the mother of invention, it would be unnatural to create your own wings when you already have them. Precisely because we can’t do these things is what drives us to figure out ways in which we can. ” 

The two boys hummed in thought. 

“We have horses and we can walk, but we still made trains and automobiles anyway,” said Ishigami as he slumped his neck into the seat. He continued. 

“Maybe it’s possible that it’s human nature to make inventions anyways. Some do it for money, others for charity, and yet others for fame. Sometimes it was practical, other times they only served good as decoration. But whatever we do it for, it’s almost our destiny to innovate. We’ve seen it countless times before, so there’s no reason it would stop now.” 

Shirogane leaned back. “Then what’s my reason? Why do I want to make airplanes? I don’t want to think it’s just because I can. There’s a lot of things I know I can do, and plenty more I cannot. But flying is a passion to me… Even if I was terrible at it, I’d still keep trying.” 

“I’d rather not be your flight instructor if you were somehow that bad at flying.” 

“Actually, I’d probably be dead, now that I think about it.” They both let out a dry laugh. 

“I think it just boils down to just wanting, ” Ishigami interjects. “For example, art doesn't really serve any practical functions or purpose, but there are many who love it anyways. They’ve taken it upon themselves to turn things or concepts into visually striking masterpieces. Music is similar; people are delighted with a certain piece of music, and it drives them to make more music. 

“Some people devote their whole lives to either of these things. Sometimes their efforts are rewarded and they are loved for it, others turn out fruitless and end up forgotten by history.” Ishigami looks down. “Some of them today are outcasts, isolated from others in sole devotion of doing what they love. They don’t go out a lot, and they can’t tell if their works are going to be praised or scorned. It must haunt them…” 

“Okay hit the brakes, Ishigami. You’re already going on another rant.” But Shirogane stares up. “Still, there has to be more to it, beyond simple desires. The urge to fly claws at my every nerve. Everyday I find myself imagining the perfect airplane, one that could fly faster, and soar higher. I work at my desk designing and redesigning this ideal aircraft, not because I could achieve something greater, but because I feel I’ll never be satisfied. Surely that’s not just desire?” 

“Okay hit the brakes, Miyuki. You’re already going on another rant.” They chuckled out loud again. Still, Shirogane knew there was something more. Even if he couldn’t put a label to it, he could feel it; wanting to bask in the unattainable, to soar to where they weren’t intended to go before. It mattered not where he meant to go, but enjoying the journey there. 

Contemplating his troubled thoughts, he transfixed his eyes on the scattered sky. In the corner of his eye was the broken moon faintly visible in the daytime. It drew his gaze, as if he wanted to solicit an answer. He stared intently, musing over his obsession with the sky as the clouds drifted by, gently covering it up before he could make order of his feelings. 

“It’s about time we got to the airfield,” Ishigami said, checking the nearby town clock.  

Shirogane’s eyes widened. “Oh… yeah, that sounds about right.” He put the book back into his bag, got up, and slung it unto his shoulder. “Let’s be off.” 

He gave one last skyward glance at the covered moon, before hastening along with Ishigami. 

 

---

 

The local airfield is simply a big dirt strip surrounded by several hangars and buildings, tenanted by fellow craftsmen and inventors looking to become pioneers of the new frontier in the sky. 

Miyuki and Ishigami arrived at their hangar, a wide building meant to store the era’s latest flying inventions. Together, they pulled the doors open simultaneously, the scent of dust and wood pervading the atmosphere. Sunlight flooded into the room and illuminated its contents. 

To their right, covered by tarp, was a large contraption that nearly touched the edges of the room. It’s a mono-wing plane, stretching twenty-five feet in both length and wingspan. It was parked diagonally inside the hangar, the left wing and tail almost reaching the miscellaneous equipment lined across the back walls. 

On the opposite side was another plane, also in tarp, however its wings and engine were notably missing. It’s a prototype model designed by Shirogane himself, and nearing its completion. Individual sections were constructed in a separate workshop, and delivered to the hangar for assembly. Chains and small cranes hung from the ceiling, and tools aligned the work tables surrounding the plane, held up by scaffolding. The two boys were familiar with it all. 

Miyuki already drafted its blueprints a year prior, before a state competition was announced. Participants were to build a suitable prototype model to be evaluated and judged, and the three teams who qualified will be provided a new engine for testing trials. Upon hearing it, he leaped at the opportunity. He secured his father’s workshop and the support of Ishigami to help create the new prototype. 

Now a year has passed, and the deadline loomed. There was nothing to do but wait until the wing was finished and assembled. The work-oriented designer felt restless at the lack of workload, and itched for some stress relief. Combining the state of his current mood, there was only one obvious solution. 

They approached the other mono-wing on the right. Straps were unfastened, and the tarp was lifted, revealing the machine underneath. It’s a Bleriot XI, the first ever truly successful model of aircraft commercially produced. It had a wooden truss structure with light fabric surfaces, and a three-cylinder engine. Simplicity is its key trait. Light enough to fly, but durable enough for rough landings. With a reliable design, easy maintenance, and affordable production values, it has achieved nearly a hundred orders. 

The previous owner operated it for a few months, before deciding he had his fill of flying after a harrowing flight that ended in a crash. Fortunately, he wasn’t seriously harmed, but wanted to give up the plane. The Shiroganes were able to purchase it for a fraction of its original price. They repaired it themselves, and Miyuki flies it from time to time. Now he’s doing it again today. 

His eyes narrowed on the splatters of bug residue across the blades of the propeller. The stains slightly tarnished its polished exterior. Miyuki clicked his tongue disapprovingly. He walked towards the wing, brushing his hand gently underneath its textile skin. Dozens of thinly curbed ribs were attached to light spars, all cut and assembled with hand-precision engineering. Such was the case for the tail stabilizers and control surfaces as well. Several bracing wires connecting from above and below the fuselage were attached throughout the wings for integrity. 

They checked the plane’s structure, inspecting every wiring and control cable. Once satisfied, Shirogane and Ishigami remove the tie-downs and wheel chocks. Then, they lifted the tail and towed the humble Bleriot out of the hangar like a gigantic wheelbarrow. They placed it down outside, and checked the weather once more. A sunny day with calm winds, crystal clear visibility, and scattered clouds; a perfect day for flight. 

He made his way to the fuel tank behind the cockpit and confirmed its quantity, while looking for any signs of contamination like water and debris from its bottom sump. Then he turned back to the cockpit. Everything you would expect is there; a control yoke, a throttle, a primer, the magneto switch, a tachometer, the oil temperature and pressure gauges. Lastly, a fuel shut-off valve located at the base of the seat. 

Shirogane also decided to build and install his own slip-skid indicator onto the instrument panel, utilizing an inclinometer. Although it wasn’t crucial, he found it helpful in handling his aircraft during flight. 

The pilot’s seat was padded with leather. It was small and cramped, as Shirogane’s legs easily met the rudder pedals. He got used to it eventually with practice, and only feels slightly sore after flights. Ishigami fares much worse with his more lengthy build. With all things in place, he donned the aviator’s goggles and buckled up. Ishigami went to the front of the propeller. 

Making eye contact, Shirogane yells. “Clear area!” 

“All clear!” replies Ishigami. 

 

Shirogane emptied his thoughts, and began his routine checklist ritual. 

 

“Seatbelt; secured. 

Fuel valve; open. 

Throttle; set to half. 

Primer…” A few pumps on the primer, and fuel filled the engine's cylinders. 

“Engine; primed! Mag switch; on.” 

 

He looked back at Ishigami. “Clear to go!” 

He nodded, and put his hands on the propeller. He balanced himself, resting his hands flatly on the blade. He yelled, “Contact!” and forcefully brought down the propeller with all his might. His momentum carried him backwards and out of the path. 

The propeller cranked and spun for a long whole second, sputtering in tandem with the engine, until it majestically whirls to life. Smoke billows from the exhaust as the engine revved, to be blown away by the propeller’s wind. Shirogane’s hair billowed upstream as he pulled the throttle back. He took a quick glance at the oil gauges. Pressure is stable; temperature is rising. Satisfied, he inches the throttle forward, slowly putting the plane in motion. Ishigami was well on the side by the time the plane began moving. They shared a mutual thumbs-up as they passed.  

Shirogane stuffed in ear plugs to drown out the engine and the buffeting air, and taxied along to the edge of the strip. He let out a comfortable exhale as his plane advanced along the trail, steering with his feet. When he arrived at the end, he glimpsed his oil gauges, before turning to the sky. Airfields usually have traffic regulations to help organize the operations of multiple aircraft. But observing no other traffic, he had the strip all to himself today. 

He simulated the emergency procedures for during takeoff roll, and post airborne, preparing his body and mind in anticipation for anything. With man and machine all ready to go, he pivoted the plane to the center of the runway. It was finally time. 

 

A final breath of disposition. He opens his eyes... 

 

He firewalled the throttle, and the engine roared in reply. The light aircraft accelerated rapidly, its tail lifting up ever so slightly as it gained speed. Very soon, the jostling of the landing wheels disappear, followed by a sublime sense of being afloat. He was airborne! 

Shirogane let airspeed build up, then gently pulled the yoke back, pitching the nose into a shallow climb. Peeking left, he saw Ishigami’s figure waving at him. He salutes him back as he soars by at a spiffing sixty kilometers per hour. He tilted shallowly to the left, the cables warping the wings like feathers on a bird, generating asymmetric lift. He sailed smoothly through the skies, basking in the company of the zephyr, which rocked and nuzzled his plane’s wings. 

He watched the ground receding, shrinking smaller and smaller while the horizon only grew larger. His view expanded across the land. He could see the smoke billowing from chimneys in the city. Further off were the great ports that housed the steam ships, sailing in and out from the Laiden bay. Banking full circle, he saw the vivid plains, the lush green hills, the open farmlands, and the grand forest. A steam train rolled doggedly along its tracks, with its white cloud of smoke trailing into the distance. 

Several hundred feet off the ground, he cruised by the benign clouds hovering overhead. An expression of awe was plastered all over Shirogane’s face. Since the dawn of existence, humanity has always dreamt of flying amongst the birds in the sky. Just a few years ago, the impossible was made possible, and the dream came true. With this realization, he gave a jovial laugh and a hearty smile. 

He banked back to the airfield, beaming to the sound of the firing pistons. 

Chapter 4: On Our Terms

Ocean breeze blew across the harbor with natural certainty. Kaguya strolled across the docks, with her bodyguards and servants flanking her, but keeping their distance. She watched from afar the foreign ship being escorted by smaller boats into the pier, with a dozen personnel overseeing the docking.

Earlier in the day, news came announcing the arrival of a diplomatic envoy. The Palace had sent for Kaguya to have them arrive in her governing province, and she was to meet them there. Hers was the only region of the Imperata other than the Capital. The local humans were sent to guide the ship towards their harbor, and Kaguya was driven back by carriage to attend the rendezvous. 

For a while now, the Imperata has stayed comfortably isolated from the rest of the world, with only the most minimal of imports from smaller countries in the Orient. But recently, messengers from a prominent nation over in the Centre-lands started arriving, bearing propositions of establishing a relationship. No such nation has ever really done that in a long time. At first, only lengthy letters were delivered back and forth as communication, until the arrangement of an envoy was approved by both sides. 

This nation in question was an imperial power known as Volaria. They are vaguely familiar to the Imperata; they may have been one of the powers that have tried clashing with the Imperata in the past. They were known for their massive fleets, and of course, Lumenkind scoffed at this. But most of the records are a bit muddy, and are written in more archaic texts that are no longer used today. But if the records are true, then this would be the first time in centuries that they’ve come to interact with them again. Today marks the first envoy, with representatives chosen by the Volarian Crown. While historical encounters between Volaria and the Imperata go far back before the current dynasty, perhaps with the turning of this era have the times changed. 

Volaria has made clear their intent to “get to know” the Imperata. It’s unknown if they are aware of Lumenkind, even if they’ve fought before. The Imperata has always emphasized discretion with the outside world, and no humans outside are to know about them. It was a strange direction at first, particularly with the nobility that prided in flaunting their Lumien nature. But since then the Imperata has managed to keep it a secret. And Kaguya must continue to keep it a secret too, despite the loom of foreigners whose underlying motives may very well be to expose them. This negotiation will have lasting consequences. Her nerves were afire, but she dared not show one single iota of it. 

 

The vessel was finally moored and secured. A walkway was connected to the side of the deck. The dock personnel and the sailors were finalizing the preparations as Kaguya sauntered up to the steam-powered ship. 

Kaguya has heard of the recent advances in nautical technology, especially as the Court began vouching for it. Most ships that she heard of were designed for transport; they were bulky, dull, and awkward in their sailing with little to no outer maintenance, as years of travel eroded and decayed their outer hull. They served only to do its job. 

However, the envoy vessel was nothing like that. Being sleek and of the latest design, the hull was smoothly curved and seamless. Painted in coal black and brilliant gold accents, its varnish absorbed the sunlight splendidly. It had an impressive array of masts, which served purposes for fuel efficiency and to balance out its rotating paddles in a storm. Its single funnel where the steam comes out was decoratively welded, with its yellow rim near the top as boiler steam billowed out of it. It was a fine nautical masterpiece. 

She raised her eyes on the girl standing on the opposite end of the walkway. The Volarian representative was fanning herself with a circular silk fan. Hugging her figure was an aristocratic dress consisting of four different parts: a white collarless blouse, a translucent kerchief draped over it, a lengthy skirt stretching just above ankles, and a rectangular half-apron wrapped around the hips. The gown was covered in embroideries of intricate design. 

The girl herself was delicate and graceful, having deep brown eyes and short, lush hair. She closed her fan shut, and drew her skirt to the side in a rapt curtsey. Her lips pulled into a smile, a diplomat’s smile. 

“Greetings, milady Shinomiya.” She spoke in Oriental Tongue, the commonly used language of the Eastern continent, and adopted by the Imperata to help unite the Lumien clans. “We are most esteemed to be in Her Highness’s presence. I am Nagisa Kashiwagi, Representative of Volaria.” 

Kaguya returned with her own deep bow, and instantly recalled from her quick briefing on the appropriate term to refer to a Volarian. “I’m just as honored to receive you, Srta. Kashiwagi. As you certainly know me, I am an heiress to the throne and governor of this province, but you may refer to me as Lady Kaguya instead.” 

She nodded respectfully. “As you insist, milady Kaguya. And please, call me Nagisa. We are duly sorry to tell you that we can only let you on board for the sake of this negotiation. The meeting must take place privately, away from prying eyes. Thus, we cannot let any of your escorts come along.” 

Kaguya just smiled. “If you say so, Srta. Nagisa. Just as we are relieved with your safe arrival, we can equally place our faith in the safety you’ll provide. Let us proceed then.” 

Kashiwagi’s expression shifted to surprise for a moment, but quickly resumed. “Yes of course, milady. Let’s be on our way.” Kaguya let one of the sailors take her by the hand and guide her aboard. With her hand over her heart, Nagisa led her through into the ship. 

As she entered, servants quickly formed to the sides, genuflecting deeply. Other sailors were attending to the ship, moving in the background and working with tireless vigor. The surfaces were spotless and pristine. Here, Kaguya could smell Nagisa’s scent, a mixture of sea breeze and mild coal, atop of flowery fragrance. 

They walked towards the end of the stern, where a stairwell descended into the lower deck. The steps were lined with carpet, and the walls were mounted with little lamps that illuminated the way. “In here, milady Kaguya.” 

Unlike the other doors, this one had a fancy black and gold finish. Brass coated its elaborate handle. Nagisa stepped aside, and followed right after Kaguya went in. A servant came last and closed the door. A second servant attended to the two while serving them the finest tea. They also placed small pastries on the little rack in the center. They then quickly left. 

Nagisa gestures to the tea. She says, “Please help yourself. We offer only our highest quality desserts and brew for you.” 

Kaguya inclines her head, picking up the teacup and platter, and inhales the aroma. She takes a sip. Nagisa follows suit and takes hers as well. For a brief moment, the thought of politics and worldly matters slip away under the comfort of fine tea. Setting their cups down, Kaguya dove straight into business. 

 

“So now… what are your intentions with our Imperata?” 

Nagisa just smiled. “Why friendship, of course. We want to befriend you.” 

“That’s the first time in a long time that anyone has seeked our ‘friendship.’” 

“Well milady, someone like you may know, we recall visiting here in the century past. Our current records are muddy and unhelpful, so we don’t remember exactly what transpired.” She batted an eye. “But whatever truly happened is now in the past. Instead, we want to do something different, something new.” 

“I’m surprised that Volaria holds such deep interests at heart,” Kaguya mutters. “Especially concerning a nation so far away from their own.” 

She takes another sip. “Our historical connections were fleeting, and we want to change that. And besides, the Orient is outside our sphere of influence. We figure aligning with such a mighty nation would logically be in our best interest.” 

Kaguya takes a deep breath, and gazes into Nagisa’s eyes. “If you’re so insistent, then what do you have to offer?” Let’s have her lay the cards out first. 

She clasps her hands together. “Our strength. We are one of the most influential powers in the world, begging your grace. We can open doors for you in the Centre-Lands.” 

“Please elaborate.” Kaguya says curtly. 

“Our presence extends all across the middle continent. We have many small vassals in the vast ocean, places to make port and to exchange goods, or to simply bask in the local spectacles. We maintain close business relations with several Occidental nations. We currently lead the shipping industry, thanks to our nautical infrastructure and sizable fleets. We are one of the key players in world trade, with many of our trade companies dominating the maritime domain. We are highly innovative with our vessels too.” She brushes a hand across the table. 

“Those are all very good points.” Kaguya took a small tart and began to slice it. “It is true that our interests align with those you’ve mentioned.” Indeed, they’re quite convenient. But let’s weed out the loops first. “If you were to establish relations with us, what do we stand to gain?” 

“Everything we’ve mentioned, we can also provide. Our pride is grounded this way.” 

“And in exchange?” 

“We want some selective freedoms in near future.” Nagisa motioned her hands in indicative fashion. “We would like a trade route established between our largest ports, as well as the permission to dock, rest, and conduct repairs. This, in exchange for our nautical opportunities and a window into our culture. We find this fair.” 

Kaguya’s face remained stoic as she sorted through the details. On one hand, the profile of the Imperata would go up once Volaria has made its mark. Other powers would start to take interest as well. If it keeps up, they may eventually find out about Lumenkind, and discretion would no longer be on their terms. If the deal goes through, the Imperata must be prepared, if it hasn’t already started preparing. 

But on the other hand, even if the idea was rejected entirely, it would only serve to delay the revelation of their existence. It’s probably unfeasible to keep up the facade forever. The Orient had never been a part of the grander picture, but in recent years that’s been proven to have changed. The time has come to pick their poison, whether they wanted to or not. 

“Well if you insist on our patronage that much, I suppose we can discuss arrangements. For a start, we’re keen on the idea of purchasing sturdy seafaring vessels. However, we are deeply more inclined to learning how to produce our own steamships, so it would do wonderfully if you could provide us your top naval architects to come here and train our own.” 

Nagisa tilts to the side. “Is that so? But our ships are top of the line, milady. I’m sure you would want only the best there is in the world, do you not? We’d lower our prices especially for you.” 

“We have no need for that. Rather, we’d pay significantly more for an architect tutor than for a dozen fine vessels. We know where our priorities lie.” Kaguya’s eyes reflect a tiny glint. 

“Very well. I myself am a daughter of a nautical commission company, so I may personally see to that once I return.” 

“In that case, what do you have? Are your ships always as sleek as this one?” 

“Milady, if you so desire, we may provide the grandest of our vessels for the right price. Excuse me for my words, but we boast the best ships of all the seafaring powers. You can guarantee the quality in our promises. Thus, the real question is, how much are you willing to invest?” 

They’re confident. “Three. There’s little chance we’ll commission more than that for the time being. To reiterate, we prize knowledge more than the products themselves, so you know what we mean.” 

“On a related matter, what of fuel? They’re powered by steam for a reason. On average, our vessels can carry more than a thousand tons barring other uses for internal storage. This is especially so for merchant ships that cannot refuel at its destination. We would advise the lessening of tariffs to encourage trade for this reason.” 

Kaguya smirked without making it obvious. “But let’s not forget that we have dozens of mountains with a plethora of cave systems, those of which have been explored before by their natives. We have plenty of coal reserves to draw from, the only issue being that we’ve never done it on a grand scale before. 

“So I propose that alongside the naval architects, we would like to invite some of your most experienced foremen to provide their insight and techniques to our miners, to maximize efficiency as much as we can. With our own supply, you may even refuel here if you need to.” Which means we can focus on concentrating them in our ports. 

Nagisa’s forehead creased. “With all due respect, even if you could implement these new techniques tomorrow, coal cannot be produced that quickly. We respect your decision to extract your own coal, but for the sake of business, we must provide you coal alongside the steamships, and that will be costly.” 

“It will be costly all around, and it still won’t affect our current tariff policy. I’m not the only voice in the matter, as seclusive as our country used to be. Please don’t misunderstand; we do want what’s best, but naturally, we’re secretive by nature. 

“But if the Court were to find something that we can give away, we may be more lenient with the taxes.” Kaguya glanced behind her, peering at a long cabinet filled with exotic-looking porcelain dining ware. 

“By any chance… is your nation the type to import exotic goods? You claim we’re the first major Oriental country you’ve dealt with. Imagine how your people would react if they were to receive strange luxuries from a lonesome empire over in the far eastern side of the world. 

“We’re willing to sell you goods of our rich set of cultures for a lower export price. For anything else, I’m afraid I cannot say. We’ve never been the sort to indulge in merchantry across the great divide, and we’re more practical-minded when it comes to foreign products. But we’re willing to make appropriate concessions, so as long as any traders remain in their ports.” 

“I see what you want to say. So as long as we send over competent individuals to educate your folk, you’ll let us accept the limited trade rights we have on your shores. These are very peculiar conditions, milady.” 

“It is what it is. We must know if you’re serious with pursuing our friendship.” 

“We understand. We go to great lengths to achieve what we want. Our ambitions require us to do many things in Volaria’s name. Pride is our very honor.” 

“How remarkable.” Kaguya leans forward knowingly. “From the looks of it, you’ve gotten half a mind about that.” 

Her eyes widened. After nothing is said, Kaguya leans back. “You’re a sharp one, Srta. Nagisa. If it were permitted, we would become fast friends.” 

“You flatter me too much, milady Kaguya.” Despite herself, Nagisa was in awe with the woman before her. “But back onto the topic, it’s true my country’s national pursuit is to collect things all across the world. While a second envoy is scheduled to come later… perhaps you may share something about any unique pieces?” 

Kaguya nods solemnly and launches into a discussion about Imperata apparel. She explains how many formal dresses, including the one she’s wearing right now, are made of very durable fabric despite its gentleness upon its wearer. She even acknowledges how some variants of these clothes can even protect the wearer while still denoting one’s high status. 

“Indeed, such tasteful pieces sound delightfully promising. I can imagine how their sturdy variants can be used to protect someone from unsolicited combat.” 

Kaguya tilts her head. “The sturdy variants are actually used in active combat. ” 

Nagisa frowns mildly. “...in a duel?” 

Kaguya realizes the confusion on her face. The rest of the world each believe that their own respective cultures have already mastered the art of medieval armor and weaponry, but the new era encourages a new style of warfare which renders it obsolete. Aside from becoming outdated, there wouldn’t seem to be much sense in exporting such things when everyone else already has their own. 

Aside from that, they probably wouldn’t accept Lumien embroidered clothing, even if they knew what it was; the stigma of wearing foreign attire may be unpopular for Volarian aristocrats. 

But on the other hand, they’ve never seen Lumien bladecraft before. 

Without waiting, she reaches into her dress and pulls out a concealed dagger. She unsheathes it, and presents it to the curious, if guarded representative. “Please take a look.” 

Nagisa graciously accepts. Upon lifting it from her hand, she is immediately surprised. The blade is extremely light, despite its size. Its wavy edge trails to a single, deadly point. Her eyes trail down to the elaborate hilt. The grip is oddly comfortable. The tiny pommel has an engravement on both sides with a pair of wings on it. 

Her awestruck expression reflected off its silver, almost glassy surface as she wondered. “This is nothing like I’ve ever seen before. What material is this? ” 

Kaguya’s lips gave a sly smile. “I’m afraid that’s our secret.” 

As Nagisa continued to admire the blade, she explained the blade’s properties. “As you noticed, its weight is unparalleled. Compared to steel though, it needs constant sharpening and maintenance. But it never rusts, and is resistant to corrosion, which combined with its brilliant shine makes it more beautiful than any other blade. It is difficult to procure, so they’re bestowed only to our nobility. Little else can compare.” 

Nagisa scans the blade. So pretty. Even I want something like this. Kaguya lets her finish before she passes the dagger back. 

She considers the potential behind them in other applications if they can learn its secrets. “Would it be feasible to trade us the raw materials, both the blade metal and durable cloth?” 

“I’m afraid not, Srta. Nagisa. It is not covered by the tariff exceptions, thus it would be ludicrously high, and personally, you’re better off knowing how to refine it.” Kaguya shakes her head. “And that’s out of the question completely. Our position may change one day, but not right now. We may only offer you the finished products themselves.” 

“As you say. And one more thing,” she says. “With your permission, we would like to establish a Volarian embassy. It would help deepen our relationship even further.” 

“I’m afraid that won’t be possible. It would not bode well with our nobles. We are already cautious from these interactions as it is. We are steadily shifting our mindsets, but we are still wary of the prospect of opening up to the world too soon. Anything more than what we agreed on would make them feel threatened. Please understand.” Kaguya ends with finality. 

“Of course, milady. Forgive me for my forwardness.” 

“That makes me think... what will you do if these negotiations were to fall through? I doubt it would stop their ambitions of expansion. What would they do next?” 

“I’m sorry, but you’ll have to ask someone more superior than me.” 

“I’m asking you.” 

“I’m sorry, milady Kaguya. I simply don’t know enough. My only mission is to represent Volaria in a deal with you. If I were to tell you anything I’ve heard or suspected, and you heard better accounts elsewhere, then you’d believe me a liar.” 

Kaguya relaxes. “I see. Then, if there is nothing else important to discuss, I must return to the Palace and attend to other pressing matters. My delegates will arrive later and deal with the specifics discussed, and also see to your needs.” 

“Oh, of course.” They both stand. “Thank you for your precious time. It was an honor to have made your acquaintance, milady Kaguya.” 

“The pleasure was mine, Srta. Nagisa.” 

 

---

 

Kaguya walks back down onto the pier as Nagisa stays aboard. They give a final farewell, and Kaguya proceeds back to the palace with her escort in tow. 

 

Nagisa returned to her personal quarters and breathed a sigh of relief. Lady Kaguya was intense in a cautious, yet domineering way. She gave no sign of weakness throughout the entire exchange, and was remarkably perceptive. It took everything she had to maintain her flair in front of her. As nerve-wracking as the meeting was, she was ultimately impressed. Despite her powerful aura, Nagisa thought she managed to live up to her own expectations. She had a good feeling she made enough progress. 

She thought of her forward comment hinting at her internal thoughts. Little gets past her. I have to become better when I meet her again in the future. 

She took a pen and parchment and began to write her report. 

Notes:

If you haven't noticed so far, the countries that have been shown and many more to appear are all in some way inspired by a real world counterpart, sometimes with more than one country used as a basis for a fictional nation. The parallels can be drawn through the details, something we put extra care into.

-- HitheroNihil

Chapter 5: An Only Friend

A few hours after the rendezvous with the envoy, Kaguya retired to her room after writing a report to the rest of her family and having it sent to the main wing. She lied down on her lounging chair from her balcony, overlooking the forest, the beach, and the vast ocean.

Kaguya’s room was high-toned and filled with exquisite furnishings, though it was not as posh as her brothers’ quarters. But it doesn’t bother her much, as Kaguya was fine with customary things as long as they were comfortable to look at and to rest on. It consisted of the usual amenities, like her bed, cabinets and drawers, a carpet, a work desk, and plenty of curtains. She let out a sigh. She wasn’t sure if she was exhausted or just lonely. Yes, she was surrounded by many attendants everyday, but it’s clear that there’s a distinction between her and them. It’s made worse by the fact that she’s the sole Lumien of the royal family that’s unable to fly. She’s still exceptional in every other skill, but her powers are weak compared to most other Lumiens in the Imperata, and she’s heard all the gossip about her. 

She’d rather not let it get to her, so she tossed and turned in her lounging chair while letting the afternoon grow long. In the middle of her boredom, she fell asleep. It was only until the sky turned from blue to yellow when she began to stir from her nap. She gently stretched her back and her neck, and then patted her stomach. Maybe I should request some food. 

As she placed her foot on the floor, the door of her bedroom opened. Kaguya tucked away some of her hair as she squinted at the approaching figure, a voluptuous, bouncy girl skipped in with a spring in her step and a goofy smile on her face. She came bearing a small basket in hand. Kaguya clicked her tongue upon recognizing her.

Her clothing clearly reflects the way she represents herself. She wore white blouse connected with a long petticoat and navy blue skirt. An almond-colored vest snugly hugged her torso, and a small scarlet ribbon wrapped around her neck. The most distinctive feature is the big black bow on her forehead, in place of any other accessories. 

A panicking maid followed close behind. “Please do not upset her Highness, milady Fujiwara.” Her wide eyes glanced at Kaguya’s squinting face. 

The pink haired girl winked back. “It’ll be fine. Kaguya and I have been friends for a long time. I know for a fact she would never do anything to me!” 

“ Only because I hold back, you insolent ass,” Kaguya muttered vehemently to herself. She curtly nodded to the servant, instantly dismissing her. Soon, the room was left between her and the newcomer, Lady Chika Fujiwara, one of the few human nobility of the Lumien Imperata. 

Chika turned to her with a brilliant beam on her face. “Oh, Kaguyaaaaaa! ” Immediately, she squeezed her in a deep embrace, almost flattening Kaguya in her chest to the latter’s chagrin. “I missed you so much!” 

“ Stop! I can’t breathe!” Pulling away her face, she put up a hand between herself and Chika. “You see me everyday, you idiot. Why would you miss me?” 

“But you’re my bestest friend in the world!” she squeals!  “Of course I’d miss you!” 

That doesn’t make sense, Kaguya thought with resignation. Chika was always one for spontaneity. Admittedly, it's one of her strengths, a frustrating one at that. Kaguya knew no end to this impertinous villain, and as much as it infuriated her sometimes, Chika was indeed her best friend, in fact one of her only real friends in the entirety of the Imperata. 

“It’s been a busy day, Chika,” she sighed. “I’m exhausted and want to rest. I’d rather you’d not disturb my leisure with whatever your plans are.” 

“Aww, Kaguya wants to relax,” Chika chirps. “Don’t worry! I brought some of our favorite desserts, right here!” She holds up her basket, shaking it playfully. 

Kaguya frowned. “Chika, I am not to be treated as so. You may be my friend, but I’m not your plaything. You cannot coax me with sweets.” 

Chika merely dismissed her as she began to wave a raspberry pastry in front of her, grinning widely. “C’mon Kaguya, only one! Just one, just one, just one--” 

“Control yourself, Chika.” Kaguya was already half-taken by her charade, and internally debated if shutting up over a little piece of bread was worth it. She glared passively at Chika, who was making ridiculous faces as she munched on the pastry. Eventually Kaguya conceded defeat and said, “Fine, put your basket on my table.” 

Chika smiles winsomely with puffy cheeks, and proceeds to plop herself on the opposite chair. Kaguya tuts disapprovingly, but goes to prepare some tea. She prefers to prepare her own tea in these instances, usually with the servants keeping a hot container of water at all times for her to use as she pleases. She quickly mixes in her tea and joins Chika in front. Sitting on lounge chairs in front of a beautiful view, enjoying tea and pastries as the sun rings the fifth bell of the afternoon hours. Chika indulges herself in her own basket, as if she never meant to share it in the first place. Kaguya let out a weary, exasperated breath as she cut into a pastry of her own. She will never change, this girl, she thought wistfully. 

Chika had been Kaguya’s friend since her younger years. She served as an extreme that balanced out her radical upbringing. Where she was imbued with a great dose of ruthlessness, Chika was there with her sense of compassion to keep Kaguya company as she was compounded by the isolation she received after her mother’s death. In a sense, she owes Chika for staying by her side through all of it. Chika was way more popular than her, both as a noble and as a person. Anybody near Kaguya is either afraid of her, or conspiring against her. Surely somebody who is her exact opposite would have better things to do than spend time with an isolated royal. 

Though as cheerfully friendly as she may be, few have ever gotten to witness a more ruthless side to her, as almost all her rivals have. When those folk underestimate her, they find the tables turned on them before they know it. She matches her talent of charm with her discretion and intrigue, overrunning those who try to trap her. Although she wholeheartedly heralds she dislikes deception and deceit, when it comes to games involving trickery, it becomes an exception; politics is just another game to her, and there’s nothing she excels at more than games. 

But after one thing and another, she found how Chika was isolated too, in her own way. People put her high on a pedestal, ignoring the fact that she’s a human being, both figuratively and literally. They forget that Chika is also someone that seeks more than superficial conversations and practical things. She wants to be with someone who she can be herself with, and Kaguya’s precisely that person. In a sense, Kaguya felt both appreciation and envy. She’s unknowingly grateful that Chika’s company has given her a sense of life that wouldn’t be there hadn’t she entered into her life. And on the other hand, she loathes the fact that she’s everything Kaguya wanted to be. Her petty vexations conceal that inner desire to emulate her more often. 

“Kaguya…? Kaguya!” Chika shaked her out of her reverie. “Were you listening?” 

Kaguya looked at her for a few moments, before giving a tolerant shrug. “Sorry, no.” 

Naturally, she pouted in annoyance. “I was talking about horses! Father took me to see the new horses he imported for me and my sisters. They’re so pretty!” She pantomimed galloping through forest roads, complete with sounds that she herself is making. “ I always wanted to ride horses super fast!” 

Kaguya continued to watch Chika enthuse about her new pastime. In the process, she thought of her own father, and for some reason felt miserable. Lumiens don’t need horses, she reasoned, but she knew that’s not what upsets her. 

“Oh, by the way, I got a copy of both envoys’ reports. First yours, and then the second one. I wish I was picked to talk to the Volarian representative.” Chika looked genuinely plaintive. 

She looked at her. “You know, Srta. Nagisa had a very distinctive outfit. I wonder if other Volarians wear it too.” 

Chika leaned forward. “What do you mean? What did it look like?” 

“She wore a fancy gown that seems to be made up of separate parts. The collar is actually another cloth draped over, and she also wore an apron in front of her skirt. It’s unique Volarian apparel. I think it would suit you well, Chika.” 

She beamed. “Truly? I really want to visit Volaria and get one for myself!” 

Kaguya shook her head. “Always getting ahead of yourself. The Imperata wouldn’t allow long distance travel to the Centre-lands just yet. Even though we’ve allowed Volaria limited rights, we’re still trying to restrict their influence as much as possible.” 

Chika stared into her tea. “Too bad. I’ve always thought that we didn’t need to have such tight rules. I just want to travel and explore all over the world!” 

Despite herself, Kaguya thought about it too. Of course, that begs a very important question. “Why exactly do you want to travel the world?” 

Remarkably, Chika stopped to ponder. “I don’t know if it’s as simple as I make it out to be, but… don’t you think there’s so much we don’t know yet? Can’t you feel the desire to just go out there and see for yourself?” 

“You feel strongly about… what exactly?” 

“The Imperata waves its banner proud and high, yet secludes itself inside its own world. Meanwhile, it keeps both its own provincials locked away from the world, and the outsiders who may as well bring something different and enlightening, something that proves how rich the beauty of the wider world really is!” 

“Orientals, Centrals, and Occidentals… you don’t believe in the differences between us?” 

She shook your head fiercely. "Oh, they're there. But they're made to look vast, to keep us from realizing what everybody has in common: that we’re all heralds of the same earthly marvels that mark this new era! This is the present, the very edge of history. There’s nothing in books about it because we’re the ones writing it down. That’s why we’re here. 

“That’s why I think it’s much better if the Imperata let me go across the continent and see what the other nations really have in store for us. The sooner we know, the sooner we can be able to tell tales about all the beautiful things they have.” 

Kaguya laughed by herself. Selfish as always, Chika. You will never change. She poured another cup of tea for the two of them. They turned their eyes to the reddening horizon. 

“Say, Chika. Why did you decide to befriend me, of all people?” 

She turned to her. “Why are you asking?” 

“I never really asked you why, after all these years.” She gazed at her imploringly. 

“Don’t you remember? When we were first introduced, I just thought you were interesting, and I started to follow you around as you go. It was at a banquet here in the Palace.” 

Kaguya thought back on the memory. “Yes. You had no end to your little questions.” 

Chika looked at her twinklingly. “You were with your mother, her Majesty, talking to many big adults like you were their equals. I was your age when I met you at that party, and I was curious to know what inspired such incessant bravery.” 

Actually, my father taught me that. Kaguya turned wistful. 

“All the other noble kids were afraid of you, especially the boys. You were Lumien after all, and they were not. They didn’t know you were a weak flyer yet, but I imagine they’d never have the guts to say it to your face. Or behind your back, either.” 

“Don’t you think they were just wary that an heiress of the clan that conquered their territory was standing right before them?” Chika never had this problem, as her family was a subordinate of the Shinomiya clan, and were based near the capital. “And you also thought it was a good idea to befriend the daughter of the fearsome conqueror clan?” 

“Perhaps,” she added. “But… you looked lonely, despite everyone around you. You probably only followed what your mother and father said, but deep down, I thought really you wanted somebody to talk to, somebody who can keep you company.” 

“That was enough to approach me? There might have been other lonely children there.” 

“But I saw no one as lonely as you, Kaguya.” Chika’s expression was warped with sympathy. “I didn’t care about who you are. All I knew was that you wanted a friend. 

“You’re very smart, and super cool. You have this icy demeanor that silences anybody that dares to oppose you. You make extremely difficult decisions look relatively easy. You always give your best. You’re amazing. That’s why you don’t deserve to be alone. You should be happy, and seeing you happy makes me happy too.” She winked. 

“You seemed happy enough already. You didn’t need me to be happy. You have a great many friends to keep your company too.” 

Chika became disheartened. “That’s not true, Kaguya. I don’t have as many real friends as you think, especially no one like you. Everyone treats me with eminence, but I can’t join them without them fawning over me. I don’t need admirers. You seemed to behave the same. You never cared about who I was when we met, just like how I never cared how scary you are. 

“So… do you realize Kaguya? I love you dearly. I’d follow you over the edge of the earth and all the way back. I promise upon who I am.” She was dead serious. 

Kaguya let the silence hang for a minute, before  eventually smiling. “Thank you, Chika. You’re the only person I could ever confide in about this. You’re equally as incredible as me.” No, you’re much better than me. You’re someone that I want to be. 

They looked at each for a few more moments. A cool, gentle breeze rippled across the balcony, the chilly wind replacing the formerly humid heat from hours before. The sun was about to descend into the horizon. The transcendent rings that trail across the sky completely on a clear night was appearing fully into view. On the opposite end, the moon was rising. 

Then, Chika got up and pulled Kaguya to her feet as well. Together, they leaned on the balcony rails, hand-in-hand witnessing a spectacular scenery. Was the dusk always this humbling? 

Chika was the first to speak. “If you ever had to go on a sudden adventure around the world, I’ll be there with you, wherever you go. That’s my promise.” 

Kaguya smiled, this time unreserved. That’s a promise. 

Notes:

It was actually a challenge referencing and finding inspiration from the source material — although we found some, there's quite a lack of interaction from Chika Fujiwara with Kaguya, and just scenes showing Chika's deeper character in general. However we believe the Chika we've portrayed in this AU will fit perfectly well in the journey to come.

- 7siiver7 (A Weeby Pilot)

Chapter 6: Innovation

“Easy, easy! Be careful with the wings!” Shirogane quickly scooted over to Kazamatsuri and Toyosaki, who stopped as he approached. “These things break easily when you’re not careful. Here, I’ll help you put in on the crane. Follow my lead.”

Shirogane adjusted his slacks' suspenders and rolled up his left sleeve a bit more. He and everyone present were dressed in comfortable white button-ups left open near the collar, practical for long hours of hard work. A chestnut flat cap sat on Ishigami’s head. Since they began, dirt and grease have sullied most of their lower halves.

Ishigami tugged the cables close as Shirogane pulled along his two volunteering classmates. “Take hold of this,” he instructed. After fixing it in place, they pivoted the wing to face the fuselage. “Now do it slowly. The wings are the most significant part that keep the plane in the skies. If they break during flight, the chances of crash and death become much higher. We don’t want anyone losing their life in an accident.”

Starting with the right wing, guided by Shirogane, the duo gently moved the wing close. “The wings attach to the fuselage through the main spar, the thick horizontal pole in the middle that the whole structure is connected to, along with smaller spars. The delicate skin covering it all consists of rubbery fabric, so don’t puncture it.” They slide the wing towards the fuselage until the wing root is slotted into place, and Ishigami fastens it with bolts and screws.

After a moment's scrutiny, he gives the okay sign. Shirogane called to his father’s hired handlers for the other wing. Asher and Olin, two men who worked for Shirogane’s father, and occasionally for Ishigami’s company, swiftly brought over the lightweight piece. Shirogane tugs the crane over to the opposite side, and together they have the wing attached.

“Did the manufacturer get the payment on time?” Shirogane asked Asher.

“Aye, he did. He can’t wait for the next one,” he said with an amiable wink.

“We’ll see about turning to him again in the future. Now would you mind holding this?”

After he secured the wing root, Ishigami leaned up to wipe his brow. “All well and good, but now comes the rigging, the tedious part.” Toyasaki gets instructed to grab the wire cutters and the metal spool. Shirogane promptly divides it intuitively into three smaller spools, and turns to his crew.

“Kazamatsuri, you’re with me. Olin, go take Toyosaki and handle the empennage. Asher and Ishigami will do the left wing, we’ll do the right. Let’s go.”

Rigging is a slow and painstaking process. It intricately ties most of the aircraft together into a single delicately woven apparatus. The science behind how the plane is assembled and calibrated is very difficult to explain, but in practice, the allegorical mind can relate it to sewing. The act of attaching each individual cable is undeniably fussy, but once everything is said and done, the final results can be a sight to behold.

“Right over here, boy.” Olin rumbled while pulling the rigging taut. “Just keep those hands steady now.”

“Make sure those wires aren’t too loose, nor too tight,” Shirogane reminded.

Shirogane’s and Ishigami’s pairs start with the flying wires that go underneath the wings, while Toyosaki and Olin concentrate on the airplane’s rear. They checked the internal wires that connect to the elevator and rudder through the fuselage, before moving on to the wires above the wings.

The upper rigging begins from the kingpost, a V-shaped strut atop the fuselage that serves as the main support for the ground wires. These cables keep the wings up and the flying wires taut. On the other hand, lower rigging is responsible for bracing the wings and actuating the plane’s wings as the pilot pleases.

It takes the better part of two hours to complete the rigging. All the while, the prodigious Shirogane supervised the process with keen, sharp orders. Ishigami follows right after him in terms of skill, but ultimately it’s his clever insight that allows the production to maintain its quick and speedy scheme. As the last wire gets calibrated, the others breathe a sigh of relief.

Olin taps Shirogane’s shoulder. “Boss, you mind double-checking our work? We’d thought you’d like to look at it.” He nodded his assent and went over to inspect the rest of the rigging while the others relaxed.

“I... didn’t know that… airplanes needed this much work,” Kazamatsuri groaned.

“You wouldn’t last long at that rate,” Asher remarked. “You should take a look at yourselves and see why. But Prez over here treats his hobby with immense pride, letting his emotions serve as a drive to work tirelessly day and night. If this less-than-an-hour endeavor leaves you exhausted, you would never hold a candle to him. Ishigami too, for that matter.”

Ishigami throws a half-grin at the lightly bearded man’s praise. “Perhaps that only applies to him. On the day when we first got our Bleriot, I wanted to call it quits half-way. Meanwhile, he just kept working and working. I was exhausted all over, catching my own breath, while Shirogane didn’t stop until the evening bells rang. I still remember his haggard, satisfied beam.

“I’ve gotten better at keeping up, but that’s less to say about myself as a whole. Grit, spit, and precise handiwork are all signs of a talented engineer, but it takes dedication and determination to see yourself through. Shirogane managed to achieve all of that, and he also taught me how to do it too. I’m both proud of and grateful to him.”

Kazamatsuri nodded and muttered something to himself. Once Shirogane finished he rejoined them. Meanwhile, Asher pulled out an ice chest underneath a long table and silently passed on ice-cold bottles of cola to the volunteers and their masters’ sons. “This is the stuff,” he chuckled out loud before taking a swig. The sweet and refreshing drink soon slides down everyone’s throats.

But just then, a few loud knocks thumped on the partly-open hangar door, before two girls poked their heads inside. “Excuse us for disturbing you, but would you mind us asking a few questions?”

The aircraft crew turned to them. “It depends on what you’re asking.” Shirogane beckoned them forward. “What brings you ladies here?”

She warmly introduces herself. “I’m Karen Kino from the local gazette, and this is my friend Erika Kose. I assume you must be Mr. Shirogane, the mastermind behind this project?” The girls wore similar matching white lace blouses, with the difference being the latter wearing a comfy spring coat and the former’s blouse having shorter sleeves. Erika wore a forest green split skirt, while Karen had a beige long skirt and flat shoes, and a burgundy hat.

Toyosaki’s face suddenly lit up. “Oh, so you came! Aren’t you glad to see us--”

“We’re here for a scoop, Saburo.” Erika’s voice was derisive. “We thank you for tipping us, but your usefulness ends here. We’d be much more happy and likely to interview Mr. Shirogane.” Karen snickered along with her as his face timidly withdrew. Shirogane wiped his face again and leaned back with appraisal.

“Well, I’m grateful for their help nonetheless,” he put in. “All I did was ask on the spur of the moment, and they readily agreed despite not knowing anything about what they’re getting into, amusingly. But they’ve been amiable and quick to follow, so I wouldn’t count them out.”

“Mr. Shirogane is very considerate,” Karen remarked approvingly.

“Please, just call me ‘Shirogane’. You’re lucky to arrive right after we’ve finished. Of course, there’s still a need for assessment before we can actually declare the plane finished, but we can do that another time. I’d be happy to answer any of your questions, just as long as they’re not too personal.”

“Hey Prez,” Ishigami called from the back, presenting an enormous wicker basket. “I didn’t tell you earlier, but my big brother packed me some snack food, for when we’re done. And since we are, why not we have a picnic? I reckon there’s enough for everybody, including the girls if they want to.”

The two visitors look worried, but they’re eventually assured that they’re welcome to share in their snacks. Erika is particularly excited, for which Karen scolded her for acting uncouthly. Asher whispered something into Shirogane’s ear, and he assented. He and Olin bowed to their young chief, and walked out of the hangar.

“They’re not joining us?” asked Kazamasturi.

“Nope. Apparently my father told them to head straight for Ishigami’s factory once they’ve finished helping us out. It’ll just be us six, if you girls are okay with it. I’ve thought about a picnic by the airstrip, what do you think?” The agreeing murmurs around the room formed a general, solid consensus.

After Ishigami confirmed the lock on the hangar door, the group marched down the gentle slope by the side of the airstrip. The sky is blissfully clear today, with only the occasional cloud on the horizon. There’s a perpetual breeze cruising through the open plains. Kazamatsuri and Toyosaki inhale the fresh air, and Karen held on to her hat, giggling despite herself.

Once they voted on a spot, Erika and Ishigami unpacked the picnic basket, whose cloth was conveniently sized to be big enough for six people. The contents were cheese bread, bagels, and large cookies. They also had Toyosaki carry the remaining colas with him. The group gathered around in a circle, the windy breeze ruffling their hair and skirts.

Carried over by the wind, a few shouts reached them from the opposite side. Two men were pulling out a biplane from another hangar while a third donned his goggles and got in the pilot’s seat. The rest of Shirogane’s group turned to watch as they cleared the area and spun the propeller to start. The engine fires, filling the air with a low, rumbling thrum.

“One of the other teams,” Ishigami explained to their classmates. “There’s around five or six groups other than us competing for the annual competition.”

Upon realizing, Erika swiftly pulled out a padded notebook and gave it to Karen, who didn’t skip a beat as she rapidly jotted down Ishigami’s words. “How long did yours take?”

Shirogane sought to answer her. “I already drafted some good designs many months before. You could say our plane is a combination of all my previous works, along with the new stuff I learned through research and theorization. The remainder of the year was poured into getting the plane finished on time.”

Karen smiled. “It’s a really nice plane, even though we only had a fleeting glance. Who's going to fly it on the day of the competition?”

“Ishigami will. We can both fly, but I’ll need to be on the ground since I’m the lead designer. The pilots will take several laps around a set course in order to determine which design is overall better than the rest. The top three will be awarded, but the first place will go on to become patented and commissioned.”

“That’s incredible!” Erika gasped.

Shirogane shrugged. “Even if we don’t win in first place, getting in the top three is key to getting recognized by the aviation industry, which is remarkably young, but unspokenly aggressive. The race to overtake each other’s companies has caused many of the brightest minds to play their best cards. We’re underdogs.”

“That being said,” Kazamatsuri commented. “The competition is sponsored by the state, right? Are they actively encouraging the aviation industry in this vein?”

“Perhaps. ‘Survival of the fittest’ can somehow be related -- while other companies may give up, the ones who persevere will ultimately come out with the best possible designs that will parade innovation for the future. It’s pretty cutthroat, however. There’s a chance of a company going bankrupt after one too many screw ups.” As ours did, he lamented internally.

“That’s why it’s paramount we establish ourselves strongly against the competition. Even if it takes more tries and more years, we’ll get there eventually, so that one day, anyone can fly if they want to. Whether to travel and explore, or to bask in that emptiness above the Earth, that’s my true goal, and I’ll not stop until I fulfill it.”

“Ambitious words from an ambitious genius,” Karen winked. “Coming back to the topic, do you mind telling us a bit about your design?”

“Certainly. Ishigami?” He nodded to his co-engineer.

Ishigami stuck his hand into his shoulder bag and pulled out a folded blueprint. “Here you go, man.” The plane shared the same main features with the one inside the hangar.

“Our design is called the Yumi Type-H. ‘Yumi’ comes from my and Ishigami’s first names. ‘Type-H’ is the model version we built. The goal of the design is to improve the plane’s aerodynamic aspects through simple yet effective measures.”

“And what do you mean by that?” she inquired.

“Let’s clear up some basics first. There are four fundamentals when it comes to flight, namely: lift, weight, drag and thrust. Each part plays a key role in getting a plane in the air.

“Lift happens when the air pushes the wings upwards, which counters the plane’s weight in order to fly. Meanwhile, the engine propels the plane forward, called thrust, which counters the air resistance that slows the plane down, called drag. ‘Aerodynamics’ is all about studying everything affected by these four rules. For example, we spent a lot of time refining the shape of the wing to improve lift and decrease drag, and better distribute stress loads.”

“My head is spinning,” Toyosaki grumbled, drawing a glare from Erika.

“You’re not supposed to say that in front of geniuses like him,” she said. “I mean, I don’t get all this aero-stuff either but you’re sure not hearing me saying it!”

“But… you just did,” he winced.

“Yes, it sounds complicated at first, but as long as you understand these basic things, the rest of aerodynamics becomes intuitively easier.” Shirogane paused to drink some more cola.

“Um, I hate to sound rude or anything, but--” Toyosaki continued. “What’s the point of all of this? I mean, developing planes? Do you do this just for fun, or?”

Kazamatsuri elbowed his friend under the disapproving stare of the two girls. But Shirogane was mild. “Sometimes I ask myself too. But ultimately I know what I want, and what I’m doing this for. Sure, I love what I do, but there’s much more to that.

“There’s a saying I know: ‘A mile of road only gets you a mile, but a mile of runway gets you a thousand anywhere.’”

“...’til you run out of fuel, that is,” Ishigami interjects.

“--but I can imagine it a few steps further. One day, the aircraft will fill the heavens, so plenty that the birds and hawks soar side-by-side. People can go anywhere they want, whenever they want. What takes several months at sea only needs a few days in the sky. Who knows, maybe our mechanical birds could reach for the stars.” He let the thought hang in the air.

“So Shirogane is an idealist,” Erika concluded.

“That he is,” said Ishigami. “But he’s an adventurer, a pioneer. If there’s one person I could follow anywhere, it’s him. And not have it any other way.” A gleam in his eyes told of a much deeper meaning to his words. Shirogane smiled back.

“I think these are enough for now.” Karen closed her notebook. “I’ll admit today was more enlightening than I thought. Of course I’m no way going to be an expert in aircraft, but I’m glad I learned something.”

“Really?” Erika quipped. “Are you sure not just playing coy?” The two giggled while rocking each other back and forth. Ishigami closes his eyes for a moment, forehead creased.

“Ms. Erika… by any chance, do you work at a restaurant?”

Erika turned with an expression of shock. “As a matter of fact I do. My family owns a place near Laiden Square, with Karen’s family gazette. But how did you know?”

Ishigami shrugged. “Simple, you smell like steamed food.”

The congeniality was abruptly cut short as they stared at one another in awkwardness. After a long minute, Toyosaki said, “Dude, that’s creepy.”

Ishigami’s irises shrunk in a split moment, and looked down. Just let me die.

He rose and donned his cap. “Shirogane... I wanna die, so I’m going home early. Good luck with the evaluator.” He stalked back up the hill.

“Sure thing… just, don’t die,” Shirogane called after him. He slumped back on his spot, suddenly weary. It takes another minute before Karen resumes the conversation.

“You know… I’ve always wanted to become a professional journalist, on my family’s behalf. I’d figure learning from the top journals and newspapers abroad would help me get better.” She turned to her friend. “I’ve told Erika before, and she’s always insisted that she’d follow me anywhere, even though this is mostly about me.”

“C’mon, I’ve also told you how travelling with you could help me learn more as a chef,” she countered. “But you know I’m more excited about going around the world and learning new things with you. To say nothing of all the delicious food waiting out there…”

“I’m doubtful of where your loyalties lie,” she replied, causing Erika to snap back an incoherent rejoinder about Karen and food.

Shirogane turned to Kazamatsuri and Toyosaki. “And what about you guys? What’s going to be your plans hereafter? Surely there’s something you want to pursue.”

The two boys stared at one another, then to the girls who are still quipping at one another. When he turned back to Shirogane, his voice was a little less cheerful. “To be honest, we never thought about it. We’d figure we’d mix a little of what our parents want and we want, but… honestly we don’t know what we’re going to do.”

Shirogane thought for a few seconds. “It’s not something immediate that should become the biggest of your worries, so you don’t have to sulk about it. There’s also a quote for this: ‘Like a man rowing a boat that floats on the tide, we enter the future facing the past. Our eyes see only the landscape of the past; what tomorrow looks like, nobody knows.’

“You’ve heard me constantly talking about the future, but honestly, that’s just me dreaming big. The reality is that I may not even be there to see what tomorrow brings. I’d even go as far to say it’s a little scary to think about. Sometimes living in the moment is better, since no one could ever tell what’d become of us, especially if we keep trying to imagine it.”

“Philosophy is intimidating,” Kazamatsuri said.

While his other classmates continued on with each other, Shirogane let out a rueful sigh. A million dreams can take its toll. He thought that’d someday, he’d switch it up a bit, and let fate dictate his life for once. Getting whisked off on a thrilling adventure, where there’s little space to breathe in the midst of excitement. But that would never happen, it’s unrealistic.

Everyone’s heads turned to the edge of the field, where the biplane from earlier was picking up speed, zooming past their group with a zesty smile. The girls gasped and the boys watched in awe as the plane took off, ascending into the sky. Footsteps on the grass grew louder, and Ishigami arrived at Shirogane’s side.

He turned to him in surprise. “I thought you wanted to die?”

He snorted. “That was only an obligatory joke. But more importantly, the evaluator just got here.” His finger pointed to a lone figure next to a truck a few paces away from the hangar. He wore the suit of a civil servant, with an identification card around his neck and a clipboard in his hand. He was gazing curiously in their direction.

Shirogane got up, and excused himself with his acquainted friends, and sauntered up the hill with Ishigami to meet the evaluator.

Notes:

Our education semesters are in full swing, so work on the story will unfortunately slow. We are still working hard to create content, so please leave comments -- they help encourage us immensely! - 7siiver7 (A Weeby Pilot)

Chapter 7: Full Throttle

Notes:

The Yumi Type-H is inspired from the Morane-Saulnier H.
Similar to how Morane-Saulnier is two names, 'Yumi' came from Yu & Miyuki's names. Japanese and Chinese militaries commonly used 'Type (Designation)' for their names, hence I did the same even though this isn't a military aircraft.

It’s been two weeks since the Yumi Type-H got approved by the regional evaluator sent to inspect the contestants of Grand Port. Today’s the capital region’s turn to compete, so the competitors will travel west with the other teams in order to evaluate the best designs. 

Before the break of dawn, the others had their planes delivered for transport. Loitering outside the passenger cars, Shirogane sipped from his dark coffee, beside Ishigami and the rest of his crew. Also with them were their classmates Toyosaki and Kazamatsuri, and the girls Erika and Karen, whom they invited along for the competition. 

Ishigami rubbed his hands under the pre-morning cold. He gave Shirogane a sideward glance. “Are you feeling nervous, Shirogane?” 

Despite his weariness, his lips formed a smile. “Well, why should I? What happens today could very well change everything in the months to come. If we succeed now, there would be plenty more waiting for us. Who knows what’s in store?” 

But that was a lie. Or at least a bluff, as Shirogane was really quaking under his clothes as he worried about the outcome of the competition. He was confident in his design, but the anxiety was gnawing away at him from inside like a parasite. But he didn’t want to lose face in front of his friends, so he kept a straight expression, not letting his nervousness become too obvious. 

“So what time does it start?” Erika was seated on the stairs of the passenger car, swinging her legs restlessly. 

“Later at ten,” Asher replies. “We’re spending most of the morning travelling to the venue, and the rest of the time having our breakfast and preparing our planes before we start.” 

“It’s the Grand Port teams that we’ll be facing,” comments Ishigami with a glance to the other cars up the track. 

Asher nods. “Aye, and whoever makes it past the regional phase will reach the national phase, which like I said, will award the top three who make it there.” 

Toyosaki nods back. “So what's the game plan, Shirogane?” 

He shrugged at his classmate. “There’s little we can do until it's our turn. All we have to do is wait. The officials are in charge with finalizing everything, so we just have to leave it to them. In the meanwhile, we can spend the free time doing whatever we want.” 

“Plenty of time for chitchat and other stuff,” adds Kazamatsuri. 

From the head of the train, a man in a sharp uniform and a braid around his shoulder yells out that the departure is about to go underway. Hearing this, the other passengers decide to go inside and get seated. The crew do the same. 

The inner cabin was lit with ordinary lights. The seats were lined with cheap cushioning, and the windows and door framed with iron rather than steel. The other teams had the financial capacities to purchase tickets for the more luxurious cars near the front, but with the current budget of Shirogane’s team, stretched thin by four more members, they had barely enough to afford to have a fourth of them in the higher classes. 

Regardless, nobody complained. As the group settled in, Shirogane, Ishigami and Olin sat on the opposite side to Karen, Erika, the two boys and Asher. During the walk up the hill to the station, the ever amiable Asher struck a conversation with Toyosaki and Kazamatsuri about themselves. Since they didn’t get Asher’s side, they decided to ask him now. 

“What was your life before joining the company?” they asked. 

The spry worker smiled at the boys, and cleared his throat. “I hailed from the south, where we mostly tended wheat and corn. I came to Laiden City to enlist myself in the army.” He turned to his audience with a wry glance. “Spent six months at a training camp based a few miles outside the city.” 

“What was it like, being a volunteer?” asked Karen, who became interested. 

He grinned as he chuckled. “Well I can tell you, lass, that it was much more than knowing how to swing a sword or shoot a gun. It’s about working together, learning how order is established and maintained throughout. It’s about survival that goes beyond merely being a good fighter. There are many other skills other than combat.” 

“So what did you do?” 

“Digging, for example,” he spread his fingers. “The shovel is not to be underestimated. Nor should the hammer and nail. Yes, plenty of other necessities are important, but none of that matters if you cannot hold your ground when push comes to shove, or take cover in a storm, be it natural or manmade. Shelter is still one of the most important things to consider. 

“I was good with the rifle, but I also had a head for numbers. Bet you didn’t notice that? Anyway, I was torn between getting assigned to another battalion full of sharpshooters, or to become a quartermaster managing the supplies with the logistics team. But after half a year of training, I thought that I’m better off elsewhere, so I left.” 

Toyosaki gazed out of the dark window. “You thought factory work suited you best?” 

“That’s a harsh label for it, boy,” he laughed. “Call it ‘industrial labor’. But yes, that was my next goal. I had a stroke of luck running into an arms manufacturer looking for extra hands. For the next few weeks, I learned a lot more about firearms from my boss than my superior officers back in the base. I made guns for various buyers with my colleagues. 

“Then my boss came one day saying that his cousin-in-law over at Grand Port was just starting up, and was wondering if I was willing to transfer to their location instead. I agreed, but what I didn’t expect was what they planned to work on. It’s the first time I learned about airplanes.” He sat straight and looked up, probably getting lost in thought. 

“When I got introduced, Ishigami’s father brought me to a meeting with Shirogane’s father, along with several other folk from Laiden City. It’s during this time that I met Olin.” The craggy middle-aged man looked in Asher’s direction and nodded. 

“To make a long story short, I had quite the adventure. Thanks to it, I’ve visited the capital and the country’s largest port. And I’m glad to work for the young genius and his friend. Let’s hope today will be in our favor.” 

Not long after he finished, the train’s whistle blew loudly. As the train began to move, the sky of dawn became lighter. Eventually the sun began its rising over the distant horizon, and for a few minutes, everyone watched in awe. It was now a new day. 

 

---

 

The competition venue was bustling with activity, with officials hastily finalizing preparations while the crews disembark from the train and take their planes out. It was a cleared out plain of land with the grass cut away. Just like a few weeks before, the weather is ripe for flying, with the refreshing breeze once more rippling their jackets. 

As the girls were helped out of the cart, Erika muttered grumpily. “It’s eight o’ clock. Can we have our breakfast first? I’m starving to the point I could start eating the grass right now.” 

“Then get on your fours and start munching,” jeered her best friend, to which she straightened up at once and immediately began a rejoinder.  

The competition takes place at a military base which the train station is located right beside. The crews roll their planes down a paved road leading toward the nearby airfield. It has an apron with several hangars facing an expansive green flat resembling a gigantic baseball field. Numerous tents have been set up as event facilities. Three other aircraft from the other regions have already arrived earlier, and are being attended to by their crews on the apron. 

They position the Yumi in line with the other aircraft, and the engineers move in for final evaluations and preparations to ensure everything is in order. Meanwhile, Erika eventually cajoles the boys and her best friend to fetch some food for the whole group. 

After an hour, the plane is ready to go and the crew are left with nothing else to do but wait until the first event. With the others bringing back the sandwiches and soup from the food tent, the crew lay down on the same picnic blanket they used before, and leisurely observed the other aircraft while they ate. 

There are six participants in all -- three are biplanes, while the other two are monoplanes just like their own. One in particular caught Shirogane’s attention. “Hey, check out that plane -- the monowing with the long smooth body. Its skin doesn’t look like fabric, does it?”  

Ishigami turned in its direction.. The body was indeed solid and glistened under the sun, unlike the duller fabric skins typically used. It’s perfectly curved from the front end all the way to its tail, tapering to a sharp point. Even the landing gear struts are covered in curved fairings that blend into the body. A large round cone is placed in front of the propeller hub. Painted on the fuselage is the name Deperdussin . 

“You’re right, it's as if it were carved from one piece. Perhaps that’s what the rumors were talking about, a monocoque plane? ” 

“That’s what I thought too. Rather than rely on a fabric covered frame, a monocoque uses a hard, hollow shell as its structure with no frame. It’d be heavier, but it’s much more aerodynamic and evenly distributes the force across its entire body, allowing it to endure the stresses imposed flying at high speeds. It’d be advanced and really hard to manufacture. But if they pulled it off...the possibilities for that technology are endless.” 

“They must have a lot of capital to invest in something like that. We’re up against some big fish with deep pockets, Myu-kun.” 

An organizer cries out, commencing the first event. Each individual aircraft will conduct a trial flight to demonstrate its performance. A row of judges have taken their seats in front of the open field where the evaluations will take place. The biplane at the farthest end is selected first. 

Toyosaki extends his finger. “Sorry if it’s a dumb question, but, what’s the difference between having two sets of wings versus one, like your plane?” 

“Put simply, biplanes generate lift more easily, but all that extra surface area creates drag. So usually biplanes are more agile, but monowings are faster.” 

After a few minutes with the crew hastily working on the aircraft, it becomes apparent they’re having issues. Event personnel talk among the crew, then have the second team begin instead. 

Ishigami scratches his head. “Yikes, the first one’s already in trouble? That’s not good.” 

“That just means less competition for us though, right?” Toyosaki asks, promptly receiving glares from the girls. Shirogane and Ishigami only winced back. Since this morning, they both shared the same worry, which was hard enough to allay. Now that another team received misfortune, it could only be a bad omen. 

They turned to the next airplane going up, the Avro 500 -- a single seat biplane with nothing particularly striking except for the smooth semi-cylindrical metal cowling over its engine.  

“What’s that metal for?” asked Kazamatsuri, indicating the Avro’s cowl. 

Shirogane cleared his throat. “Running off my intuition, the cowling is meant to streamline the airflow around the nose, and also help direct air to cool the engine. I’d think to consider that on the Yumi, but that would take too much time and work with our current resources.” 

The stalwart biplane left the ground, the noise of its buzzing engine filling the air as it climbed. Gaining sufficient altitude, the pilot proceeded to roll left and right, performing elegantly sharp turns. Then it dove in a pair of high speed passes -- exceptionally fast for a biplane.  

“That was great,” Karen noted as the plane began its landing. “It’s almost like bird watching, with the tweets replaced by hums.” 

Shirogane turned to her. “Interesting take. Sounds like something you can put in a poem.” 

“I wasn’t really trying,” she shrugged, to Erika’s skeptical squinting. “I could’ve worded it much better. But it’s still the same; a machine whose domain is the sky.” 

“That’s aviation for you, lass,” said Asher. 

The Rumpler team already had their airplane fired up for its turn. It was a monoplane with a peculiar design; its wings and tail resembled that of a bird. Perhaps that’s why it’s called the ‘Dove’. It took off and flew gently, floating through the air. Although it was rather slow, it maneuvered more like an actual bird, akin to a mechanical hawk in the wind. It performed surprisingly well for such a unique design.  

“It seems like they took inspiration from nature itself,” Ishigami said. 

“It’s all good, but not as practical, if you think about it,” the quiet Olin put in. “We’re not here to emulate actual birds. It’s artistic, that’s for sure, but I don’t see it having anything else.” 

“I kinda see your point now,” Toyosaki mumbled, gulping. 

The next team towed their two-seat biplane onto the field. The upper wing was built noticeably higher compared to the previous biplane, and unlike the other planes which use the seven-cylinder rotary engine , it instead had a V8 engine, which had four exhaust pipes lined along each side of the nose. RAE BE.2 was labeled on its fuselage. 

Asher’s eyebrows raised, and he leaned forward in sudden recognition. “Hang on now, I think I recognize that… they’re the Royal Aircraft Establishment.” 

The youths looked at him. “Who’re they?” 

“I heard somewhere that they were contracted by the army to study balloon technology, for aerial reconnaissance or something.” 

“ Military contractors?” Kazamatsuri asked. “You think they also sponsored them for a design?” 

Asher crossed his arms. “I guess it could be possible. Conflict always finds a use for everything.”  

The RAE takes off. It climbed more slowly compared to the Avro, but its later performance makes up for it, with its maneuvering and high-speed passes. During the landing, however, the plane wavered slightly before bouncing a bit on touchdown, its tail stabilizers working back and forth aggressively. 

“It does well for a heavier two-seat design, but judging from how it landed, it may have an issue with stability.” Shirogane deduced. 

“What about it makes it unstable?” Karen asked. 

“A plane that’s positively stable will naturally return to its previous state if something disturbs it during flight. But if it’s easily disturbed and deviates, then the pilot must work harder to control it. It looks like they wanted something more agile, but sacrificed a bit of stability as a result.” 

Olin catches everyone’s attention. “Take a look; the Deperdussin’s coming up.” 

The large, sleek aircraft proceeded to run up its engine. Sporting a nine-cylinder variant, it revved out loud and proud as it began its takeoff. However, it seems to roll a long way before finally lifting off, and climbing at a steady yet shallow rate. 

“Didn’t you guys say it would be fast?” Kazamatsuri scratched his head. “It seemed kinda slow.” 

“It’s a heavier aircraft design, and I reckon they optimized the wings to reduce drag by sacrificing its lift,” Shirogane explained. “Therefore it struggles with acceleration and slower speeds in general.” His eyes focused on the steadily ascending airplane. “But I suspect that once it gets enough altitude…” 

Two minutes later, the Deperdussin reached an altitude of around five hundred feet, and began its turning maneuvers. Similarly with its takeoff, its turns seem awkward and sluggish. They watched it fly away for a couple of moments as it then banks around. 

Pointed towards them, it entered a steep dive, suddenly picking up speed at a terrifying rate. The engine growled louder as it approached, and reached the field in almost no time at all. It blazed past the crowd near ground at a tremendous speed, the air sweeping upon their clothes. 

The non-aviation members of the crew were astounded. Karen stood awestruck, Erika’s mouth was agape, and the two boys were whooping out loud. Each of them exclaimed, “That’s incredible! How can something like that fly so fast? Wouldn’t its wings be ripped off?”  

The plane zoomed back up, then turned widely for another flyby. It streaked by once again, prompting a minor applause from the audience. Finished with its performance, it throttles down to land. 

The whole display had taken Shirogane and Ishigami aback, as they were wondering how the plane managed such powerful dives. It had set Shirogane’s mind racing. “That was insane. We’re really supposed to compete against that? ” 

Two officials strode up to the group and wasted no time in greeting them. “The first team has unfortunately declared their aircraft unairworthy and will refrain from competing. Shirogane company, your aircraft will now perform its trial flight. Are you ready?” 

Shirogane clears his throat before responding. “Yes… yes sir, we’re ready.” 

“Then pull your aircraft onto the field as soon as you can and get its engine running. Once signaled, you shall take off.” They stalk away. 

“Alright then gentlemen, it’s showtime.” The Yumi was lifted by its tail and moved from the apron onto the grass field. Ishigami donned his headgear before climbing into the seat. He takes a deep breath as he tries to focus. While running through the startup procedure, he felt his knees quiver. 

“Ishigami,” Shirogane calls out.  

Ishigami adjusted his flying goggles as he turned to him. “What is it?” 

Shirogane opened his mouth, and closed it, moistening his lips. In the end, he says, “Remember this, we’re on our home field, doing what we always do. No one else, only us. Nothing’s changed, just fly the airplane. You got it?” He attempts a smile, despite the quivering by the corner of his lips and the sweat trickling down the back of his neck. 

Ishigami nods understandingly. He puts on the goggles and briefly closes his eyes, calling back to his and Shirogane’s early friendship. He met Shirogane after a personal fall, who cajoled him out of his misery with the concept of aviation, previously alien and unknown. Just as his father and brother saw potential in the new industry, Shirogane himself saw potential in Ishigami, and became his friend. Soon, they worked together, and they flew together. There was peace in the rollicking rolls of the elevated plains. 

Opening his eyes, he announces in a loud voice. “Clear to go.” 

Shirogane affirms, and marches up to the propeller to take his stance. “Contact!” he bellows, throwing it down. The propeller cranked for a duly long second, until one of its pistons fired off. Ishigami pushes open the throttle to let in more fuel-air mixture, and it sprung to life, smoke billowing from its sides.  

Let’s do this. He pressed his lips into a thin line and briefed through flight and emergency procedures. The lineman waves a green flag, signaling to start. 

He pushes the throttle forward, and the engine obeys with resounding force, accelerating him down the field. Its nose pulls left from the propeller’s torque, and he plants his foot on the right rudder pedal. After gaining speed, he pitches up and lifts off into the sky. 

Combining their innovation with the new powerful rotary engine gives Ishigami a rush, rocketing through the air at a speed that completely dwarfs their humble Bleriot . 

It takes little time to gain sufficient altitude. Ishigami turns, gently circling several hundred feet. He begins the maneuvers, rolling left and right in aggressive steep fifty degree turns. Next, he sharply pitches his nose high and reduces his power, bleeding his airspeed as he hangs in the air, demonstrating the airplane’s steadiness in slow flight. 

He shoves his foot upon the left rudder and jams the throttle back in. The torque forcefully twists the plane to the left as the nose falls towards the ground in a hammerhead maneuver. Ishigami felt weightless as he dove towards the field, rapidly gaining airspeed. 

He then gradually levels off just a hundred feet above the ground and zips past the crowd. He climbs, then loops back for another dive. Just like with the Deperdussin before them, the crowd was gazing up in awe, and cheered the Yumi on as he completed his set. 

He brings the power back and does a lazy circuit to slow down and land. He approaches steadily, and smoothly lets the wheels kiss the runway grass. Ishigami shuts off the engine and the plane rolls to a stop. 

Finally at rest, he exhales in relief, and unstraps his seatbelts and headgear. He wrestles himself out of the cramped seat, just as his crewmates and friends run to him. Asher claps his back as the others praised him. 

“Excellent flying, Ishigami!” Shirogane says above all the rest. “The officials have called a meeting for later’s race. They're waiting for us at the administration tent. Olin and Asher will care for the plane. Come on, let’s go!”

 

---

 

Parting the tent covers, the other pilots and team leaders looked up from their chairs as the two entered, with Ishigami sweeping aside his hair from his face, and Shirogane offering a slight bow. They instantly felt out of place in the midst of adults. Once they took their seats, the event coordinator cleared his throat and began his explanation. 

“I’ll make it clear from the get-go: this race is for publicity. It’s true that your planes and pilot performances will be evaluated during this event, but the goal is to get more people interested in aviation. We’re prioritizing the safety of everyone involved, so each of you are responsible for maintaining separation between each other. Reckless flying will only get you disqualified. Now with that said, let’s talk about the race course.” 

“The course will take you three laps clockwise over these landmarks, with observers stationed at each pylon. Make sure you fly a little higher than those pylons, and don’t worry about coming in first. It’s true that whoever is ahead will score higher, at the end of the day the race wants to determine overall performance, not end performance. Cutting corners or harassing other participants will be penalized. Any questions?” 

With the inside of the room silent for several moments, the coordinator nods. “Race starts in ninety minutes. Make sure your planes are ready. Good luck, and put on a good show.” 

 

When Shirogane and Ishigami came back, Olin had been finishing checking the plane, while Asher and their classmates played cards. They noticed them coming in. “Mighty fine flying, Ishigami. So what did they talk about in the tent?” 

They explained the plan for the race. Meanwhile, Karen had set down her notebook, and turned to him. “Your dive was amazing. We were afraid something would happen to the plane, but you managed to pull through.” 

“Yeah man,” said Toyosaki. “That was crazy good to watch! We might have a chance to win this after all.” 

“That implies you didn’t think we had a chance to win.” Erika’s eyes were doubting. 

“Don’t be like that, Erika,” he defended. “All I’m saying is that Ishigami did well.” 

“Oh, it wasn’t a big deal. I’m sure Prez would do just as well as me if he were the one flying. It doesn’t matter who flew.” That was a lie, Ishigami was beaming inside at the appreciation he was being given by the others. 

Shirogane pats his arm. “Well you did splendid. So now, how did she handle?” 

“It was slightly touchy on the pitch axis, but it’s easy enough to get the hang of. Otherwise she flies great; steady in all ranges and responsive to the controls.” 

“Good to hear. I reckon the judges have a good impression of it. Now, what are we going to do about the race?” 

Careening his neck to the side to stretch it, he gazed at his friend and asked, “Say Prez, do you want to fly for the race?” 

Miyuki crossed his arms in contemplation. “Well, I have no doubt it'll be intense. I don’t mind flying at all. Besides, they’ll be giving their all, and it’s best we make sure we win.” 

Ishigami weighs his thoughts for a moment “You should be fine. I’m comfortable with the prospects of our airplane. We’ve come all this way -- I’m confident you’ll be the one to carry the baton across the finish line.” 

Shirogane nodded, gazing at Yumi earnestly. “Let’s show them what we’re made of.” 

 

The time quickly flew by, and soon the planes are once again on the field. Five racers are parked side-by-side with space in between them, all of their crew making final preparations.  

As Shirogane caressed the wings, he reminisced about the days he spent building his creation, earnestly working countless hours on end, in order to get to where he was now. Today is both a testament of the past and a trial for the future. It felt entirely surreal. 

A whistle blared, snapping him out of his stupor. The other pilots were getting into their airplanes. 

“Well, I suppose it’s time.” Donning his headgear, he climbed into the airplane, his airplane, and buckled in. He closed his eyes and breathed deeply to clear his mind, then looked back to his crewmates. “Here goes nothing; wish me luck guys.” 

An official at the judges’ table raised a thumbs up with their pocket watch, and the announcer brought up his megaphone to his mouth. “Racers, start your engines!” 

Shirogane initiated his start checklist. One by one, the sounds of engines firing fill the air. Through the noise of pistons, his peers and crew excitedly cheer him on. He gives them a thumbs up as well. 

Olin is with him, the tall and ever quiet foreman giving a half-salute to his young boss, of which he returns the gesture. His hands are on the propeller. 

A quick breath, Shirogane yells, “Clear to go!” 

“Contact!” Olin spun the propeller. The rotary engine sprung to life once more. Five airplanes growl dangerously at idle power, and their wheel chocks are removed. 

Signal flags rose up at the end of the field.. Shirogane’s grip tensed. 

Inhale... 

Exhale... 

The flags fly down. “Begin!” 

The roars of engines deafen the air. In unison, the planes accelerate down the field and lift off into the sky. The biplanes compete against one another for the early lead, followed by their monoplane counterparts. 

Shirogane’s Yumi is just behind the biplanes, with the Dove close behind . The Deperdussin lags behind the pack due to its nature, but it wouldn’t do good to discount it early just yet. They fly straight along the perimeter of the military base to their right whilst they climb, flying for a watchtower directly ahead.  

The Avro and the RAE are the first to pivot right. The others follow suit, but they turn more slowly, creating more distance between them and the biplanes. Eventually, the Yumi starts gaining more speed, getting ahead of the Dove . 

As they approach the second pylon, a red barn, Shirogane manages to catch up with the RAE . The Avro is in the lead, curving around the barn, then beelining towards the belltower in the city. 

Inciting the engine, Shirogane pushes the Yumi neck-and-neck with the Avro. The Deperdussin has finally reached its attitude, and swiftly overtakes the Dove at once. They flyover residential and downtown areas, where a crowd gathers to watch the planes. 

With determination, the Yumi manages to reach the belltower first. The biplanes turn the corner faster, but the RAE wavers, letting the Avro overtake it. The Deperdussin also completes the turn, albeit awkward and sluggishly. The Dove falls miserably behind as the more practical designs take the lead. 

After the belltower the airfield lay straight ahead. Soon Shirogane reached it first, completing the first lap. His friends on the ground cheered him on as he passed. 

However, the Deperdussin dove down towards the airfield to pick up massive speed, who quickly blew past the Avro and the RAE . As it overtook the Yumi . Shirogane’s eyes widened, and he cursed to himself. That must be one hundred sixty -- no, that’s one hundred eighty kilometers per hour. That’s like a forty-minute flight to Grand Port! 

The Deperdussin proceeded to ascend once more as the watchtower loomed again on the horizon. Catching Shirogane’s eye, the waving figures of servicemen down below shouted and whooped, throwing their arms as if pushing him to go faster. For a moment he realized how novel the experience was, to be rooted for by other people outside his group. 

The Deperdussin slowed as it regained its altitude, and the Yumi and the Avro competed for their place as the others sought to catch up. The Avro’s pilot gunned their engine to keep up with Shirogane, right behind his tail. 

Passing the red barn again, the Deperdussin regained its speed and flew down to reclaim the lead. The three planes fought hard, their engines roaring loud. The crowd by the bell tower were cheering now, and they waved and clapped as the planes turned. 

The Yumi  pulled the corner tightly as the Deperdussin slowed. Knowing what happened earlier, Shirogane thought that he would likely be overtaken again once the monoplane dived. At this point he needs to do something to maintain his lead. For a moment he considered doing a dive maneuver himself, when the engine rattled roughly. 

Frowning, he checked his gauges. The needles were at their upper limits, but nothing seemed particularly wrong. Growing more concerned, he had to decide whether to continue the race despite of it, or to forsake the race and land. As the rattling intensified, he reluctantly pulled the throttle lever back. 

And for a moment, the air cracked with a bang , and the next thing he knew, he was blotted in darkness. 

 

---

 

“Keep going Shirogane! You’re almost there!” The gang cheer loudly as they watch the Yumi pivot around the belltower. 

“The Deperdussin’s about to dive again,” Olin warned. “I reckon he needs to give it all he’s got in order to beat the diving speed of his foe.” 

While their classmates are on their toes, anxious to see who pulls ahead, Ishigami’s smile begins to fade. “Say, Shirogane’s slowing…” 

The Yumi decelerates while the Deperdussin zooms along. From a distance, the plane maintains enough, nothing seeming amiss. But squinting closer, one could see a dark trail streaming behind, a black cloud of smoke. The grins and beams disappeared one by one. “The young master is in trouble,” Olin breathes. Soon, the other spectators have left their seats, pointing to the Yumi and shouting. 

But before they could do something about it, the Yumi falls from the sky, disappearing below the buildings by the town. 

 

---

 

Fire and debris scattered outwards as the engine exploded, rocking the plane hard. Shirogane reflexively ducked his head and chopped the throttle down to idle . The pistons ground to a halt, leaving the plane silent save for the eerie whisper of the wind and the engines of the planes behind. Black oil was splattered over his windshield, and smoke billowed out from the side. 

He felt his stomach sink, and time seemed to slow. Falling back on his training, he recollected his bearings. Don’t panic; remember your emergency procedures.

Airspeed -- Pitch down for airspeed, keep flying. 

He lowered the nose into a gliding descent, and confirmed his flight controls were still responsive. 

Fire prevention -- secure the aircraft immediately. 

Swiftly he shut off the fuel valve, followed by the engine ignition, then ensured the throttle was closed, and tugged his harness taunt. 

Best field -- Where can I safely land? 

He gazed at the airfield ahead, judging his descent rate; it was near yet so far. After two precious seconds he cursed, realizing he wouldn’t reach the grass, and would end up short into buildings. He had to find somewhere closer ahead. 

His heart hammered in his chest. Scanning the horizon desperately, there were only buildings and occupied streets. He was running out of options. Over his shoulder, he saw a smaller street upended towards him without any obstructions. He had to turn around if he ought to land there safely. 

Committing himself, he banked hard right whilst nosing down sharply. The buffeting of the wind intensified. Lining the Yumi down the street, he raised the nose back up, arresting his descent as he dipped below the rooftops. 

Pulling up just enough, his wheels struck the ground. The aircraft jostled upon the road, rocking across the bumps in the pavement, his feet dancing on the rudder pedals. The wingtips nearly graze the gaslight lamp posts. Screams of onlookers echoed across the balconies as they watched in horror, and the few people on the ground scurried out of the way at once. 

After what seemed a painfully long time, the Yumi slacked off to a halt. With his muscles clenched, every nerve afire, and adrenaline pumping through his veins, Shirogane finally heaved a long sigh. He has made a successful emergency landing. He allowed himself only a moment before realizing he had to get off, so he undid his harness and tumbled out of his seat. 

The townsfolk crowded out of their homes and rushed up to Shirogane. Concerned, they asked if he was alright, with some helping him up and others checking for injuries. One elderly woman extended a bowl of water. Shirogane raised one hand to the worried bystanders, and kept the other on his head, feeling numb and dizzy. 

“Thank you, I’m okay… Just let me rest a minute...” Before he could say more, his legs buckled and he collapsed onto the pavement. Several men hooked him over their arms and carried him to a safer location. 

 

Shirogane slumped against a curb wall. Exhaustion was plain in his demeanor. He stared at the black oil dripping from the Yumi’s engine. The Avro was circling overhead, marking his position for responders. For a moment, Shirogane was grateful for the show of sportsmanship and compassion from the Avro’s pilot. After several minutes, a pair of firetrucks and a police car arrived with their horns blaring, followed by more vehicles. Civil servants began to rally the crowd and order them to disperse. 

One of the vehicles was a truck carrying the rest of his team. Shirogane inclined his head as they ran up to him. 

Olin was the first to get to him. The big man hauled Shirogane onto his feet, with a gravely worried expression on his face. “Are you hurt, lad? Can you walk on your own?”  

He slowly nodded. “Still dizzy from all the adrenaline. Let it wear off first,” he managed to chuckle. 

Karen digs through her bag and pulls out a towel. “You’re sweating so much.” She wipes his face gently. Toyosaki and Kazamatsuri work together to help him drink. Shirogane tries to wave it off, but Asher chides, “Just let us help you, lad. You deserve to rest after that harrowing experience.” 

“We were so worried,” Erika finally says. “We didn’t know what to do when we first saw the Yumi smoking. Then when you dove beneath the buildings…” 

“What happened?” Ishigami asked quietly. 

“The engine blew off a piston. Before the explosion, there was a loud rattling noise.” Shirogane gulped. “But the Yumi held itself together when the broken engine almost tore it apart. In a plane less stable or maneuverable, I’m not confident I can manage the same landing I did just now.” 

The chief official later approached them. “We found a large, jagged hole in the rotary engine, in the space of two cylinders,” he reported. He lifts up a burnt piece of metal. “This is the failed cylinder found by a citizen, lying on the street. 

“It seems like the failed cylinder wasn’t being distributed enough oil. Because of that, it began to heat up and wear itself down. When it became too hot, the fuel-air mixture detonated, which came out as a loud rattling sound. At this stage, the cylinder was at its limits. When you reduced throttle, the cylinder kept detonating while the others did not, causing an imbalance of power that caused it to rip itself apart.  

“We will take the engine in for further investigation. For now, we express our deepest sympathies for this unfortunate incident, and we would like to applaud you for your exceptional performance in which no other harm was done. We shall be in contact again soon.” The official tipped his hat, and departed. 

Shirogane sighed, looking forlorn. Other than inner dissatisfaction, he mostly felt plain relief. For now, he just wanted to forget about the race, forget about the competition. Just like his friends, he was simply glad he was alive. 

Notes:

Next chapter we will return to Kaguya, don't you worry; we miss her too.

Chapter 8: Guardian Angel

Hayasaka lays her feet onto the carpeted floor, softly wiping her eyes and tucking away her hair. It was still early dawn, and the first light has yet to come. Her morning routine was once again set in motion. She took the oil lamp with her, she went through the activities, like grooming her hair and dressing up. Then she walked down her hallway — formerly her mother’s palace, now the governmental facility where most of the other bureaucrats and lesser nobles reside. 

She did what she would do everyday, ever since she became a vassal: first taking an assessment from the head of the Night Watch, as well as the weekly relay from the chief of the militia. Then she made her rounds of the palace, rousing the servants to duty and making sure nothing is out of place. Then as the evening shift officials are about to call it a night, Hayasaka asks them to compile the papers in neat rows, this time delivering them to her for assessment. 

As she was about to wrap up, she paused by the window to gaze at the dawning sun illuminating the dark sky. She has been doing this for quite some time, and she will probably keep doing this for much longer. It’s starting to define her daily life. Not that she would outright reject it, but what else is there to do? Turning away, she came face-to-face with her mistress. “Good morning, Hayasaka.”  

“Milady,” Hayasaka tilted her head. “I didn’t expect you to be awake yet.” 

“Isn’t that a surprise?” she replied. “I don’t mind a usual change of pace. Anyways, follow me. We have something to discuss. Don’t worry, it won’t take long.” 

 

---

 

Arriving at the small cafeteria on the upper floor where the horizon overlooks the sleepy city, Kaguya walks over to the refreshment stand and gestures to the nearby table. "Take a seat, Hayasaka.” 

“Shouldn’t I be the one preparing tea, milady?” Hayasaka inquired. 

“No need. I’ll do it myself. Just sit down.” Hayasaka just shrugged, but she obeyed at once. With her hair waving in the morning wind, the princess took an expensive powder and poured it into a teapot, and then took the tray over to the table. Kaguya poured out the tea while Hayasaka watched. Then Kaguya took her seat. 

A few moments of silence hung in the air. Hayasaka almost seemed to waver under her steady gaze. Eventually she realized she needed to speak up, so she started by clearing her throat politely. “I’m assuming milady wants to hear from me?” 

Kaguya nodded imperceptibly. “How is our coal construction project going?” 

“The necessary equipment has been delivered, milady.” Hayasaka began to pull the documents out of her pouch, but Kaguya raised her hand, no need for that . “...and the accommodations bunks are ready for the foremen. We just need to draft workers from the nearby towns and villages to work in the mines when the time comes.” 

Kaguya clasped her hands. “Well done. Now, about the provincial economy... It's improving since the last time, but some parts are still lagging behind.” 

Hayasaka glanced at the scenery overlooking the horizon. She turned back, “We’re going to fund new endeavors. I’ll be seeing to it myself.” 

“Really now? Do tell.” 

“As vice-governor, I’ve taken to restoring my home’s former glory.” After it got burned down. “Since then I’ve ordered the roads to be repaired and new bridges to be built to accommodate more routes in and out of towns. I’ve also set up outposts to serve as toll gates and security checkpoints to earn some revenue back and keep out the rebels of the unaligned clans. 

“I’ve also taken to not only restoring the agricultural strengths of the region, but I also decided to invest in industrial production. I’ve taken the time to creatively deliberate the course of action. It has led me to discover better ways for a lot of things.” 

This caused Kaguya to raise an eyebrow. “...interesting. Go on. You have my attention.” 

Hayasaka blinked at the acknowledgement, but quickly said, “T-thank you, milady. Now for starters--” she took the bundle of toothpicks from the cylinder, and then placed them one by one on top of each other to form a long grid of squares. “--this is how we used to farm rice, and occasionally some other crops within the season. 

“However the space allotted to farmland in our province is insufficient and poorly distributed compared to that of others, encroaching developed areas that could otherwise be used for expanding. While we’re not quite there yet, there will be a time when the population will grow larger than the area it can comfortably stay in, and it will become a great issue if left in its current state. Therefore, I suggest we make use of the terrain to its utmost advantage.” 

“That’s very fine indeed, but can you get to the point?” Kaguya tucks a lock of her behind her ear. 

“My apologies, Lady Kaguya,” Hayasaka mumbled, half-wincing. “The region is mostly mountains and hills, with the main sets of towns and villages along the shore at the baseline. The plan is to use the hillsides as the fields instead, forming terraces for compact planting, while also allocating money into urban development to increase the size of the main towns. 

As for industrial production: plenty of products go in and out of this province, either by the port to be exported or imported, or to pass through the other provinces. The market is sufficiently big enough, but what if we could process some of the produce instead of selling it as is? I’ve reserved space for a miller so people can process rice and wheat, to experiment.” 

After this, Hayasaka went quiet. She wondered how Kaguya would respond, but after a long period of pondering, she lifted her cup to her lips. She looked at her. “You thought this out well.” 

“Indeed milady?” Hayasaka asked noncommittally. 

“It’s ambitious, coming from you. I think it would do quite well, but you must pull it off appropriately. I believe in the potential, so if you need extra funds secured, you may ask.” 

“Why, that’s very generous, milady Kaguya.” 

“If I see that it can work, it has a better chance than you think.” Hayasaka felt Kaguya’s eyes on her again. This time she can faintly yet noticeably distinguish another scent apart from the aroma of the tea. It was the subtle fragrance of Amaryllis flowers which had a mild and delicate sweetness akin to soft wine. It came from Her Ladyship who had been trying out a new perfume. She thought to look it up herself later. 

A pair of fingers snapped for Hayasaka’s attention. If she could openly sigh, she would’ve done so by now. “Yes milady?” 

“You’re still as quietly insubordinate as ever,” lightly quips Kaguya. This time, there wasn’t a hint of sternness. No, the glint in her eyes had a different meaning, like she’s being commended. “If there’s one thing you and your clan are known for, it’s stubbornness. For better or worse, it’s done you many things. The lengthy campaign taught that well.” 

“Though certainly we were no match for the Imperial Army, milady.” Hayasaka almost drawled the last part out. Kaguya just chuckled. 

“You can drop the flattery, your reluctance is plain. You obviously don’t believe that. After all, it’s simply not true. Your defeat was only brought about by being worn out, and not knowing how to deal with attrition over the long term. But before that, we had to pull out all stops.” She tapped her cheek indicatively. “No other clan has made us do so.” 

Hayasaka remained quiet. 

“Hayasaka, for once let’s not talk as master and servant, but rather as one royal to another. Only a creature of immense pride can understand someone similar. The look on your face means you still believe you can take back your home?” 

Her eyes widened, but she kept her expression fixed. 

“You must accept that it won’t happen. We will not allow it, and any attempt at a coup will be fiery yet short lived.” The two girls continued to stare at each other, the atmosphere becoming tense. 

After some more thought, Hayasaka decided to speak, not bothering to be polite anymore. “Why are you telling me this?” 

“I’ve been observing you,” Kaguya pointed out. “You have a brash and strong willed personality that’s equally charming and free spirited. You probably think being subjugated is a humiliation. I’m here to say that it’s not.” 

“Is that so? It doesn’t seem like you’re the one serving another princess.” 

“That’s true, I’ll admit that. But I don’t believe you should envy me. Rather, I’m the one who envies you. The way you are is a product of your upbringing as well as your past thoughts and actions. If you compare us, you’ve lived a much freer life than me. Sometimes I wish I wasn’t forced to keep on airs all time.” 

Hayasaka was still not convinced. “I’m supposed to pity you then?” 

A sly smile formed on Kaguya’s lips. “You don’t have to. It doesn’t matter to me, anyways. But you’re different, different than the other servants, and the other nobles and royals, for that matter. I’d sooner spend a day with you than five minutes with them.” 

“I don’t think I can bear with that.” 

Kaguya laughs. “You might be surprised. But see? We’re not so different, Hayasaka. I hope we can find more things in common.” 

After this, Kaguya rises. “That’s it for today. I’ll be leaving later in the afternoon for an envoy, so I expect you to arrange my carriage before the appointed time.” The face that she always considered irritable and condescending was now making an amiably playful smirk. “It’s been nice speaking with you, Lady Hayasaka.”  

Hayasaka looked away, but eventually she mumbled, “And as with you, Lady Kaguya.” 

 

---

 

With the flick of her wrist, the last throwing knife sank into its target with a clean and satisfying thunk. Hayasaka surveys the dozen knives she’s been throwing over and over since she came here. After her talk with Kaguya, a lot has been going on in her mind. It’s gotten to the point where it might interfere with her duties, so she decided to delegate someone else to her tasks and dispel it while she can, paying a visit to the indoor training grounds used by the civil militia. 

Hayasaka takes out the knives and carries them back to the armory. Then she went to the backroom to change clothes. As she undid her training uniform, she heard the low rumble of thunder above. Monsoon winds swept a billow of clouds inland, and with the sky blotted in grey, it was almost definitely going to rain soon. 

Pulling down her clothes, her mind drifted to a memory of her mother and herself doing storm flying for the first time. Lumenkind in general holds in common sense that one’s mind should be free from inner clutter as much as possible, as one’s mental state must be ready to harness the chaos brought about by the vertigo of one’s surroundings. In a sense, flying in a thunderstorm would be maddening as one is basically inviting a challenge into her mind, one that they have to deal with in the middle of flight. 

But the Hayasaka clan was different. She knew from the back of her hand the principles that her mother taught her long ago. She was panicky during her first time, but her mother was an experienced flyer, and helped her understand in a way for her to pick up quickly. Not too long after, she would begin to fly out on her own, and even play games of chase with her cousins under an orchestral display of weather enraged. Ever since their capitulation, she has so far refrained from practicing it again. Her special training group considers it insane, and are very vocal about it. Although she knew they secretly understood that storm flying was one of the key reasons the Imperial Army was trumped in the early stages of their campaign. 

Hayasaka stopped to look in the mirror. She glanced at her own hair, shoulders, arms, and face. In her head she made a split second decision. She nodded to her reflection, in mutual agreement with herself. She loved to flirt with risk, and today she thought it was time to allure him again. 

She changed into her regular attire and stepped outside. Normally she would wear a specific type of clothes for this occasion, but it was just a short, passive flight, so it doesn't really matter. It’s a pity this dress will just get wet, but it is what it is. Going back to the armory to pick up her dagger, she fastened the sheath to her waistline. Then she left the training hall. 

Hayasaka walked out to be greeted by the drizzling rain. Dark clouds encompassed the sky. The sun should be right above my head, she thought. She took a sniff, judging the level of humidity in the air. The way it is, flying is going to be especially difficult at this level. But then again, she wasn’t going to back down from a fight. Her boots moved forward, and stepped into a puddle. Raindrops fell onto her face. She took another breath, but this time in relief. She found the nostalgic feeling familiar and comforting. She looked around. Nobody was out and about, but still she needed to find an open space to take off. She ambled on as a gust of cold wind blew through her, fluttering her skirt and soaking her a bit. Hayasaka giggled involuntarily. 

Eventually she found an open space on some plains. At this vantage point, the sky can be seen divided between the storm and the part where sunlight can peek through. It’s far away, yet the distance doesn’t feel like a barrier to the experience she’s having. So beautiful. 

Hayasaka closed her eyes and went through her mental exercises. Although from an outside perspective, she is simply trying to calm herself, that is not the only case. A Lumien’s flight is controlled by her imagination, one that must be disciplined in order to master it. The energy they use to fly is similar to that which gives the weather its power. Thus it is paramount that a Lumien prepares herself for anything, no matter how big or small. 

The more jarring thing to note is that a thunderstorm is a highly violent natural phenomena; a mass of chaotic energy. A Lumien can quickly lose control; it’s easy to be blinded and disoriented just by being inside, not to mention the constant struggle to stay elevated while wrestling the monstrous winds. Traditionally speaking, storm flying is suicidal. 

But there is a way to work around it, and that is by working with it. Just as dangerous as storms may be, they can be a source of incredible power. Instead of fighting the currents, Hayasaka can embrace it, and let the winds take her fast, high, and far. The rush was absolutely breathtaking, and it wasn’t until this moment did she realize she wanted to experience it again. But of course she must ready herself first. 

With a sharp mental push, Hayasaka let off a gust of energy in all directions. Her aetherfield — her ‘wings,’ — manifested, sprouting from her back once more. The air circled around her in a spiral. She could feel the static within the draft she’d created. And gently, she opened her eyes. Become one, resolute as the earth, and free as the air wrought by water and fire. 

This wasn’t a speed climbing test. Most Lumiens don’t take off like that anyways. Instead, Hayasaka concentrated. She inhaled deeply as she levitated off the ground, her feet dangling beneath her as she rose. Her wings shimmered with elegance and intensity. The rain falling onto her face was being swept up in the current of her aura. She propelled herself forward, intent to get herself to where the action is. Her wings gleamed in reply. She could feel her body tingle, the urge to envelop her entire body in the energy of the storm. But not yet, she reminds herself. Getting carried away will only forsake what she’s built up to so far. 

As she approached the altitude level generally advised for normal travel, Hayasaka paused to take in her surroundings. She could really feel it, her spirit circuits flowing with energy, begging to be used. In a more turbulent squall, she wouldn’t have the liberty to stop like this, and she’s grateful that this drizzle is the perfect scenario. She smiled, a genuine smile, in a way that trumps all the fake ones she shows when putting on airs. 

She drew her dagger and took one more breath. Then, she reached into her mind and covered herself, as if pulling a veil upon a candlelight. Almost instantly, her wings disappeared. Hayasaka plummeted from the sky. 

Then she picked up enough speed and uncovered that veil, and her wings reappeared. She focused on the burning flame within her heart, and thoroughly embraced the passion that drives her to push to the limits. Her arc tilted upwards in a clean swoop. Her wings blazed as it channeled the static in the air. 

Now it’s time for some fancy moves. Acrobatics was a strong suit of Hayasaka’s, and due to her storm flying talent, it makes for some very unique maneuvers. She dipped and swerved in the air, as water does in a rocky stream. She cut and slashed her blade through the wind, taking advantage of the current of the storm to provide her both the confidence and the energy she needs. 

She tucked into a roll, her hair and dress flurrying about. She raised her dagger extravagantly and brought it down on an imaginary foe. She let herself plummet down and reignited her wings, as if she were playing a game. Hayasaka felt what it was like to be free. Back in the real world, where she is still a servant and still another Lumien, she can forget about that for now. All that matters is that she is in control of her domain, and only the sky is the limit. She dipped towards the sea, feeling the rush of as she sped across the splashing waves. That moment a fuzzy feeling began to encompass her and her wings. All of a sudden, the sky and earth were illuminated by a flash of bright light, followed by a resounding boom thereafter. Then her normal senses returned as quickly as they went awry. The wind and rain had become much more intense. 

Hayasaka decided she had her fill of storm flying. She careened back towards the palace, flying over rooftops and tarps along the way. While watching the buildings pass by, she caught something moving swiftly in the corner of her eye, traversing the sloped scales of the palace’s extensions. 

She concentrated, and switched to her primordial sight, which describes the world that can be seen through the four key elements. Despite the weather almost blurring her vision with hazy ethereal light, she could make out two moving masses with all four elements swirling in one whole blend. 

Her previous good cheer vanished immediately after she realized what the figures potentially were: assailants, possibly armed and disguised. Nobody else would be out in a storm otherwise, for maintenance or flying. For the most part, they could most definitely be aiming for Lady Kaguya. 

Whatever their purpose may be, if they post any feasible threat to her Ladyship, it would be my utmost duty to protect her. She didn’t need to think twice about it. Dereliction would amount to betrayal, and the Hayasakas and her people would pay the price. She mentally gauged the odds. She knew if she engaged them then and there, and swiftly dispatched them, that would eliminate the threat. There could be more, but at least this pair will do no more harm. Decision made, she made a beeline for the nearest of the two, dagger at the ready. 

Flaring, she descended upon her targets. From the looks on their terrified faces, they never expected an ambush from the skies in this weather. With her heartbeat rushing to her ears, Haysaka dissolved her wings and landed next to the trespassers, who drew their swords. 

Don’t let them get their bearings. Hayasaka jabbed the knuckle of her index finger into the first assailant’s ribs, and then stomped down on the back of their knee to make them buckle. She raised her dagger to deflect a swing from the second assailant. She turns back to the first and whacks them with the edge of her hand, knocking them over. 

The second one grunted in frustration. Hayasaka feinted a stab before ducking underneath their sword arm. She caught their wrist and twisted it. They growled in agony and subsequently let go of their weapon. She finished the job by pulling them close and kneeing them in the abdomen, and they promptly folded over. 

She scrutinized the two bodies sprawled across the roof, then pulled their cloaks back. Adult men, middle-aged. Probably foreign sellswords. There was little time to waste. She had to get back to Kaguya as soon as she could. She left them unconscious, as the roof isn’t steep enough for them to slide down anyways. She picked up the sides of her skirt and dashed across the rooftop.  Plenty of things were racing in her mind. She had just begun to warm up to Lady Kaguya. Was today the day she meets an untimely end? Could her failure mean terrible consequences for her? For her mother, or her people? And who was behind this? She wanted to know. But she didn’t get far enough to contemplate these thoughts, as a loud crash shook from somewhere below, followed by an explosion. 

Hayasaka struggled to maintain her balance against the rattling. When it stopped, she exhaled and made a sharp mental push, reigniting her wings. She jumped over the edge and swooped down. 

She spotted a set of windows damaged and blotted with white powder on the second floor, including one that has been completely blown out. It was the palace kitchen, a room which connects a lot of hallways. There wasn’t enough time to find an entrance, so she made note of the sharp glass and carefully climbed through the broken window. 

What she saw struck her as odd. The room was filled with smoke and powder. Three cloaked assailants were groaning on the floor among the fallen shelves and debris, coughing limply. One of them was desperately rolling back and forth to get rid of the fire that started on his clothes. She looked down at her feet and saw the burnt remains of a bag of flour. 

She didn’t know what to make of this, but she still had to find Kaguya. It was paramount that she located her soon. Yet she also needed to make sure these assailants were knocked out cold. So she proceeded to give each one of them an endearing blow to their faces. 

She kept looking around, and catching her eye was a scratch beside the door leading to the closet room. But upon closer inspection, it's a message engraved into the wall. Fourth jar. Hayasaka furrowed her eyebrows. What does ‘fourth jar’ mean? What kind of convolutedly non-descript message is this? 

Fourth jar… 

She took a peek inside the room. Just as she knew, it was merely a closet room for storing servant uniforms. nothing out of the ordinary. Then she remembered the kitchen and backtracked, stepping over one of the assailants as she scanned the shelves. Some of the containers have fallen down during the explosion, and the ones made of glass broke into pieces. But true enough, there was a row of cookie jars with different flavors of cookies fastened in place by a wooden slot holder. And in the fourth one, behind the brand label, she could see a small piece of paper. 

She unscrewed the lid and pulled it out. She unfolded it, and went silent at the message, which read, “Get everyone out safely, Hayasaka. That’s an order.” 

Hayasaka pursed her lips as she read the message once more. “I don’t know what’s going on, milady. But telling me to do this, instead of coming to rescue you… this is surely a lot more than what it is.” Nor will it end as anything but badly, I can almost guarantee it. 

Sighing, she put on a serious face and walked out into the hallway. She cannot betray a direct order from Kaguya, even if it contradicts her other purpose. But it is what it is. Rallying the nearest people to her, she began executing the evacuation plans.

Notes:

This is a belated Christmas gift from us! Thank you for bearing with us through the small hiatus we had, and thank you for reading this chapter! See you again soon!

Chapter 9: Shattered Veil

Notes:

Update 9/14/23 -- Added scene in Chapter 9: Shattered Veil

Kaguya glanced at the clock for the third time in a row — it’s already a quarter hour before two o’ clock, but there’s no sign of them yet. Supposedly her carriage should’ve already arrived thirty minutes before. Kaguya sighed again as she stared up at the ceiling, listening to the rain patter the window.

Well, it wasn’t as if she couldn’t wait to see her family. Every now and then she goes to the High Palace to present herself. It’s not exactly a welcoming experience, with the icy cold atmosphere and treatment of everything and everyone, including Kaguya. So much so that sometimes her beckons boil down to only seeing if Kaguya came as told, and then leaving without so much as a word. She doesn’t remember the last time her father properly greeted her. 

Her eyes drifted to a wall mounted map of the province of Hanan, also known as the former territory of clan Hayasaka. The highlight featured the City of Haiyun Harbor, whose most notable feature is a sizable naval port where trade ships from the Orient dock. And due to the recent endeavors from Hayasaka, the region is returning to stability. 

The sound of the storm outside intensified. It would impede her travels even further, and the Shinomiya family would not take her delay kindly. 

She heard the creaking of the backdoor as it swung open. Glancing over, a girl carried a tray filled with tea and biscuits. She wore a maid dress and apron, somewhat tightened to hug her figure more, as popular with the younger staff, but she bore a beaming smile and a small sway in her walk, humming an irresistible tune without a care in the world. 

With a delighted curtsey, the girl said, “Good afternoon, milady! I’ve brought you tea.” 

“Why, thank you, girl.” Usually, Kaguya can recognize when a servant wants to earn her favor, by being more pleasing and acting sweeter in general. With the exception of Hayasaka—who’s polite demeanor is a far cry from most of the people trying to cozy up to her, this girl seems to do it naturally—because she wants to. The only thing is that she’s never seen her before. “Are you new around here?” 

“Indeed, milady! I had just been recruited into the palace staff!" she chirped as she lay down the tray. "I always wanted the honor of meeting you in person." 

“You look up to me that much?” she inquired. 

“If you would excuse my candor, milady… it’s more of the job I’ve been entrusted with, and I’ve been wanting to fulfill it in my highest regards. Now that I stand before you, my heart can’t stop beating fast. I’m nervous and excited on all levels.” 

Kaguya inclined her head. “Well, good for you for thinking this way. Many people here can learn from your example.” She watched her pour her cup of tea.

“What’s your name, girl?”

“I-I am Michiru, milady. At your service!” She seemed surprised to have been asked. Perhaps it unsettled her too. The austere Shinomiyas seldom deign to know a commoner’s name, unless they had something terrible in store for them.She nodded with grace. “That sounds like a wonderful name.” Startled by Kaguya’s benevolence, she gave her a small curtsey, saying how gracious it is to hear that from her.

“Where do you hail from?”

“The far north, milady. Further up from the Imperial City, and into the alpine regions.” She glanced through the window to the mountain range at the edge of the horizon.

“That’s quite far.”

“Indeed, milady. It was quite the journey. But it was one that I took for myself. Of course, my family knew about the benefits of serving the ruling class down to the south, and encouraged me to go.” She paused with a solemn smile breaking across her face. “But I came entirely on my own accord. I don’t know the extent of what I’m here for, but I know that it’s for self-fulfillment.”

Kaguya hummed in thought. “Well, thank you Michiru. I will remember that.” She turned to leave, but Kaguya said, “Can you inquire the superintendent on the state of my carriage? If they were going to be late, I should’ve been informed. Go and send for him.” 

“Understood, milady. Consider it done.” Michiru bowed to her once more, and left the room. 

Once again, Kaguya was alone with her thoughts. She stared down at the cup of tea offered to her, despite not asking for one. In a way, she was reminded of Chika, and how she tried to drag her into many situations she would never have partaken in on her own. Yet that’s what eventually changed her perspective. It was a relief to see that in others. 

The crashing thunder became louder the more Kaguya zoned out. Shaking her head, she took her cup and glanced out the window. The rolls of dark grey stretching across the sky was accompanied by a minute beat; a rhythmic melody that only the meticulously observant would know. Irregular, yet distinctive, it’s a nature beyond nature that only a select few can hear, let alone understand. Kaguya inhales contentedly. 

Rubbing a gentle hand over her eyes, she moistened her lips and brought her cup close. Just as she was about to sip, she heard a thump. Kaguya opened her eyes, frowning. Does thunder make that kind of sound? She paused. She listened to the rain again, paying attention to anything out of the ordinary. Thump. 

Kaguya lay down her teacup. She wasn’t hearing things. These sounds were very close. Twisting slowly, Kaguya leaned behind her. Then, a flash of lightning. For a second, a surge of blindness startled Kaguya. But then she realized there was more to the dark nimbus clouds; a shadowy mass seemed to blot out the sky completely… but it wasn’t a cloud. It was a person. 

She gasped with realization and jumped back as the window gave under the pressure, shattering into a thousand pieces. To her left, another figure did the same through another window. Broken shards stuck to these trespassers’ damp cloaks, glinting in the light as they stood up. 

Kaguya parted and bent her knees, drawing her dagger from its sheath. Shifting to a battle stance, she glowered at her would-be assassins, who drew their short swords. Although their faces were covered by their hoods and scarves, their eyes shone indistinguishably from everything else. There couldn’t be any other possibility. Lumiens. 

The three of them watched each other warily. The wrong step could spell death, but Kaguya didn’t have the numbers here. She always spent time alone. And Hayasaka hasn’t been fully committed to the bodyguard side of her duties to accompany her every single time. 

Kaguya never took her eyes off of either of them. They had her surrounded, so all that’s left was to hit her at multiple angles. Her only chance would be to kill them. But judging by their stances, these were most certainly seasoned warriors. Kaguya was skilled enough to hold her own against one person, but two professionals? 

Kaguya steadied her breathing. There is a way. She’d done it a thousand times before, but never in combat. In all her younger years, she tried her best to fly, with excessive but futile effort. She could only enter the trance that every Lumien can do, but she can never leave the ground. Defeatedly, she was reserved to watching the world in its core elements, knowing it would never serve more use than that. 

Or so she thought, at first. After getting bored at the library one day, she was startled to see the wind blowing thin sheets of itself folding over and over like a blooming flower, only to realize that her book was merely flipping. 

But then on, she had an idea, and began to experiment with it everyday. While this power is supposed to be draining, she wasn’t flying at all, thus allowing her to spend hours on end, passing the time by predicting the flow and ebbs of wind and light. 

Now, she sees this small battlefield in her mind. All it takes is the right mental push, and time slows to a fraction of a second. Lumenkind, creatures of air, embody their purpose and emanate it. With magnetic sheets of steel laid in each blade, and strings of zephyr bouncing graciously across the room; the very souls of the enemies before her fluctuating like candlelight—Kaguya could predict the intentions of her foes. Now, she just needed to move out of the way. 

Blinking back to the real world, Kaguya fell forward, pivoting to the right, parrying a sword thrust straight into the path of the other’s sweeping flail. Metal clangs on impact. Both assailants unexpectedly lose their firm footing as they compensate their strikes. Switching hands and flipping the dagger over, the assailant widened their eyes as Kaguya stuck her blade cleanly behind her neck. 

She placed her free hand on the back of their head to help pull out the dagger. They crumple over, and the other assailant gasps. Without delay, Kaguya thrusted forward. They retaliate with a panicked swing, aiming for her head. She saw how the metal parted the air in its fiery wake, and ducked under the reckless flail. Raising her blade she sliced their wrist. The sword clatters to the ground as they howl in pain. Kaguya puts an end to it by impaling their heart with a sickening crunch. She pulls her blade and kicks them away, and they tumble to the floor unmoving.

The backdoor opens. Michiru came rushing back in, a worried expression etched on their face. “Lady Kaguya!” she blurted, “I heard the crashing! Were you harmed? Do you wish to be escorted to the medical wards?”

“Calm yourself, girl,” Kaguya muttered with mild asperity. “Have you gone blind? I’m clearly uninjured.”

“Oh my. Oh my, oh my, oh my…” she stared down at the corpses, a shudder going through her body. “This won’t do, this just won’t do…”

“Relax, they’re dead now.” Kaguya twirled the knife in her hand. “I’m worried about there being more, but as long as we follow the protocol, we can resolve this in due time.”

Michiru stared guiltily at her. “T-truly?”

“Of course. We just need to mobilize the Civil Guard, and we can reorganize ourselves to deal with this plot.” Then Kaguya frowned. “Speaking of which, didn’t I tell you earlier to go talk to the superintendent?”

Her eyes widened. “Y-yes, milady—”

“—then why are you still here? You left ten minutes ago. How could you possibly have heard the crashing?” Under her stern gaze, the girl remained silent. Her chest was rising and falling in rapid breaths.

Then she lowered her head. “I’m sorry,” she muttered, but the voice was low and savage. “I’m sorry for doing this.”

It was too late for Kaguya to react when her dagger flew from her hand. Michiru had surged forward in a reckless lunge, knocking the blade out of her hand behind her, clattering against the wall. She heard her hiss—when she withdrew, Kaguya saw a bloody gash across her palm. They locked eyes as the girl drew a dagger of her own. Her instincts kicked in at once. She grabbed both of her wrists, howling. She replied by shoving back, but Kaguya didn’t let go.

They struggle for almost half a minute; an agonizing amount of time. Kaguya stumbled backwards, knocking her leg against the table. The teapot falls over, and rolls on to the ground, shattering. Both of them were fighting for their lives. A deadlock; it could only end one way. But Kaguya could feel her opponent’s arms weakening, losing ground as she fought back. 

At length, she pushed Michiru’s arms firmly away from her face, prepared to disarm her. In a last effort, she tried to slam her head into Kaguya. She leaned back to avoid it, and jabbed a fist into her gut. This threw her off-balance, allowing Kaguya to twist the dagger into her hand. Then she shoved her back. 

The savageness on Michiru’s face transformed into sudden realization as Kaguya circled her. She raised her arms half-way, denial screaming across her fear-stricken face. With the weapon at hand, Kaguya made up her mind. She dashed forward, reaching out one hand to cover her mouth, and then gutted her in the side of her body. Blood seeps out between the girl’s punctured ribs.

The two lock eyes as color drained from her crestfallen face. She buckles; Kaguya catches her by the waist to lay her down gently. She convulses, and begins to cough more blood. Kaguya stared at the knife embedded in her side, judging for a moment whether she should pull it out or leave it where it is. 

She felt Michiru’s weak hand close around her wrist. Unable to speak, she mouthed, Forgive me, Lady Kaguya, with welled up eyes. Kaguya looked on as she passed away. 

She stood up and glanced around the room again, now with a third dead body. This was no ordinary assassination attempt. The level of coordination and timing left Kaguya disconcerted. To pull off such a feat wasn’t just some bold move, it was an order given by someone who wanted to assure her death. And if they’re ambitious, they wouldn’t resort to only three assailants. 

Kaguya’s mind was racing. She wanted to know who wanted her dead and why, but for the meantime, the palace was compromised. She had to get away. The first thing to do would be to rally the guards, but given that the girl was disguised as a maid, she couldn’t dismiss the idea of impostors among the staff. And if enough of them managed to corner her without Hayasaka to help, she’d be overwhelmed. The best option would be to rendezvous at a designated safehouse deep within the city to recover and decide what to do next, while waiting for Hayasaka to come back. But first she had to discreetly leave her a message. 

She stared down at the lifeless maid one more time, her pooling blood mixing with the spilled tea. The tang of bile hung at the base of her throat. How is it possible to have every nerve ablaze while your face remains cold as stone? But what she feels now is one thing; what she may feel later is a different matter. She only let herself have a moment of mixed amazement and detachment before moving on. 

Her hands reached for the doorknobs, but she froze. Footsteps, coming this way. She went over to pick up her fallen dagger, before ducking behind the counter just as the doors swing open. Two armed guards walk into the room.

While Kaguya couldn’t see them, it was clear from their voices that she didn’t recognize them. Speaking in another language, the first one grunts and curses at the corpses sprawled on the ground. The second one says something in reply, and the first begins to rant while crossing the room. 

Kaguya knew that any moment now, they would start searching the room. The only other way out was the staff door the maid came through, but they would hear it creak. She needed a distraction. 

Then she remembered the chandelier. She noted that while both of them are too far away to get hurt, the resounding crash will offer a second of opportunity to open the door. She peeked over the counter, waiting until both of their backs were turned. She readied her dagger. The metal chain holding the chandelier was rusty and old, and Kaguya was used to hitting targets much smaller, and at farther distances. She took a deep breath. 

She flung the knife. It spun twice before the sharp edge pierced the cable, sending the chandelier crashing to the floor. She twisted the doorknob as the guards sputtered, yelled, and jumped back. By the time they regained their bearings, Kaguya was out the door. 

From here on out, she needed to be cautious. There was no telling how many of her staff were infiltrators. Fortunately, she read about the floor plans of the palace. She kept close to the walls and stayed conscious about her footsteps. The only sign of other people were the sounds of closing doors. If there was anybody who was aware of her presence, she encountered no one. 

Her heart pounded in her ears. She wondered where Hayasaka went, and if something had happened to her as well. Despite outward appearances, Kaguya knew there were many things Hayasaka could do that she could not, and for that, she was glad, even if she did not express it well enough. 

Kaguya peeked around another corner, and after confirming the coast was clear, she crossed over quickly. If I recall correctly, the way out should be at the end of this wing, through the pantry—and then after, the stairs. I can make my way out from there. Rounding the corner, she opened the doors to the pantry and kitchen, and Kaguya frowned in disbelief.

Reaching the inside of the top shelf from a stepping stool was a plump, bright-haired girl, enthusing out loud about trivial things. Who she recognized was the person she least expected to be here.

“...Chika? Is that you?”

She turned in shock at the direction of Kaguya’s voice. Her throat worked convulsively, gulping once. Then she blurted, “Kaguya! What on earth are you doing here?!”

“What do you mean ‘What on earth are you doing here,’ you cow?”  Kaguya’s customary scowl began to return, and she went over to lock the doors behind them. “I had business back at home. But put that aside. Things have gone terribly wrong, Chika. We’ve been infiltrated, and now they’re coming for me.”

“Ooh, I got it!” Somehow she managed to carry down an entire row of jars consisting of  four different flavors of cookies, suspended on a small platform. She sprung off the stool with a chirp, before hastily opening one of the lids.

“Chika…” Kaguya twisted her lips. “Did you hear me?” 

She turned to her with a mouth stuffed with cookies. “Sowy, wat agen?” she let out. 

“Stop that first and listen to me. We’re under attack. Protocol dictates we rendezvous at the safehouse near Haiyun harbor. We need to get out of here. The problem is that I can’t tell who is with us and who is against us—and there’s no time to figure it out.” At length, she sighed. “What are you doing here anyways?” 

Chika’s expression sombers, and she looks away, swallows, and wipes her mouth. “I wanted to come and meet you, and Hayasaka too. There are some important things I need to explain, but I also wanted to spend more time together. I also never really got to know Hayasaka outside of her work. So…” 

Her severe expression lessened a little. “Well, it’s such an unlucky time to have come over. This is no time for games. I hate to break it to you, but now your life, not just mine, is on the line. We need to get to safety as soon as we can.” 

She expected her to take a few moments to process this, but instead, Chika just nodded immediately. “Don’t worry, Kaguya, I understand. I’ll follow you wherever you go, just like I promised.” 

“Well… good.” After a moment, Kaguya nods. “Now, we cannot rely on our staff, since our infiltrators could potentially be dressed as one of them. I’m not going to trust anyone more than I must.” Her mind flashed of the servant girl she killed. 

“Where is Hayasaka?” Chika asked worriedly. “Does she know what to do? What if she’s trying to reach you, but something’s gotten in her way?” 

Kaguya flattened her lips. “There’s no way at the moment to be able to contact her from here, or to even hope on the idea of letting her catch up to us. We just have to put faith in her abilities to trace our steps.” She doesn’t add that Hayasaka is partially a loose cannon. “Anyhow, we must change our clothes. Our noble attire is very conspicuous.” 

“The dressing room is right next door,” Chika offers. “I secretly went in there just to check if I’d look cute in a maid outfit, but I haven’t put one on yet. But since this is happening, this is the perfect excuse!” Without another word, Chika hurries into the dressing room. Kaguya shook her head, but soon followed. 

“You know, I’ve always found maid uniforms to be cute,” she stared intently at the clothes. “The outfits of servants, that’s true—but there’s a charm to it I can’t put my finger on.” 

“Well I don’t imagine it to be anything else than that,” Kaguya pulled two uniforms from the closet, passing one to Chika. They changed their clothes quickly. Chika had trouble reaching for the back straps of her apron, so with reluctant sigh, Kaguya stepped in to help. 

Now in their disguises, Chika beamed at her own reflection in the mirror while Kaguya leaned to the wall, thinking about their course of action. If anybody knew where she went, they’d probably trace her steps over to the pantry. If that was the case, then maybe there’s a way to buy time—if there’s any to be bought at all. There’s nowhere they could hide before safely assumingly they’ve passed. There’s also nothing of note that can be used to block the doors from entry. That leaves only one option left: Could there be a way to booby-trap the room? 

The pantry is full of everything needed to keep the palace staff well sustained. But it’s not like the infiltrators will stop to eat first. Although, there is one possibility, and with a bit of cunning, it just might knock three birds out with one stone; it would stop their pursuers, alert Hayasaka, and create a perfect distraction. 

“Kaguya, Kaguya! What do you think of--” Chika cut herself short as Kaguya went back into the pantry. She opened one of the cabinets. Inside were several sacks of very fine flour. She dragged one of the sacks out, and beckoned Chika over. “Put this somewhere that it barely keeps itself from falling.” She opened another cupboard and dug around for a spool of rope. “Tie a knot around the bag.” 

She took out her own bag and brought it to another side of the room. With mild haste, she positioned the bag on a high shelf and wrapped the rope securely around its body. Then she cut open the top of the bag. I don’t know if this will work, but here goes nothing. She went over to give the knife to Chika. 

She inspected one of the gas lamps that was attached to the wall. These things were an appropriate replacement for candles and reliance for outside light. The only complaints from the few dissidents was that it makes an accidental fire all the more likely, but Kaguya sought to make use of this fact. 

She stared at the two bags of flour. The idea was to ignite the flour particles by spilling them onto the floor and in the air, which would cause a momentary, but fiery burst that can knockout anyone barging in. And it will take more than one person to break down the door. 

“I’m done, Kaguya,” Chika said. 

“Good. Now tie your end of the rope to this doorknob, while I do the same with mine. When the doors swing fully open, the bags should swing down and spill the flour everywhere.” 

“Okay,” said Chika bemusedly. Kaguya didn’t really need her to understand the plan. She followed the order anyways, and together they tied secure knots on the doorknobs. 

They ducked under the ropes. Kaguya took an iron ladle and with it shattered the gas lamp, exposing the flame. Hopefully it’ll be hot enough to ignite the scattered flour. It’s poorly constructed, but this is as far as things can go with the few equipment at her disposal. Only time will tell. 

Chika handed her a paper and pencil. “Here, write your message to Hayasaka then put it in the fourth cookie jar up there!” 

She looked at Chika in confusion. Unsure of what she was thinking, she was going to have to write a message anyways, so she took the tools and quickly wrote the message while Chika ran to the other side of the room. 

She put the paper in the jar as instructed, and looked at Chika who had finished carving 4th Jar onto the wooden door to the pantry. She winced despite herself. Whatever, it’s too late now. 

Kaguya gave Chika a resolute nod. “We’re done here. Let’s turn our minds to escaping.” 

 

---

 

In the midst of evolving chaos, Hayasaka did her best to rally the staff, keeping short of letting panic spill into their fears. “Do not fret!” she barked over the footsteps and worried murmurs. “Come together now; we’re all going to leave soon. Gather around and don’t be afraid, we’re going to get through with this.

She turned to the group with the most people. “Some of you—the brave ones—help me find more stragglers. The rest of you must get ready to depart under close guard. As long as you stick with me, we can get this over with as soon as we can.”

She beckoned over a senior guard. “Arrange everyone in small groups of four; have two guards accompany each. We need to prioritize getting people to safety.”

“In a thunderstorm?! Where are we supposed to go?!” A voice rose above the din, and suddenly a clamor spread across the room. Some shouted out their dread, looking for an answer more reassuring than what they just heard. Some of their colleagues counter and argue back in her defense. A timed crash of thunder left a few wailing, and many more angry and confused.

Hayasaka stepped towards the center of the room. "Remain at ease! Put trust in me that I have a plan." When the crowd didn't calm down, she gave a high, piercing whistle: the type she uses when coordinating with her friends in aerial group practices. Most of them shut up immediately. Although some murmuring remained, this gesture of authority has reclaimed their attention.

"Listen… you know well the kind of person I am. I would not neglect those under my care and supervision." She glanced across their faces. She recognized some as Hanani, while others were locals of other provinces brought over at the Imperial family’s pleasure. But it didn’t matter to her. “I’ve been ordered to see to your safety, and that’s exactly what I intend to do.

“We don’t have enough carriages or wagons to be able to lift everyone out in a short manner of time, and I regret to tell you that. However, we have been infiltrated. I don’t want to call forth anybody and blacken them as an intruder in such a moment of high tension, so I will only focus on prioritizing each and every one of your safety. Or would you rather stay here, putting yourself in jeopardy and make things more difficult for everyone else?”

She knew her presence was crucial to keep everything from falling apart, so she had to be the one to lead them. She let the crowd grumble for a bit, before she continued. “We’ll head to the nearby town. We’ll assign you into groups to make sure nobody gets left behind. If you’re sickly, or weak to the cold, come with the head guardsman. You should stay under the cover of wagon roofs. The rest of you: take any large cloth and carry them above yourselves. The guards will lead the way by lamp light.”

Not wasting any more time, she threw herself into collecting the servants into their respective groups, offering courage, sympathy, or blunt orders depending on the people. She helped take down the heavy curtains and fold them over. She wondered what Kaguya would make of her decision. The other Imperials wouldn’t be pleased to learn that she had turned expensive drapes as rain covers, but she can scoff at them now— she’s the one in command.

And when she thought they were ready, she ordered the front doors open. They were greeted at once by a shower of rain. Hayasaka winced; the storm wasn’t this bad before. She also had just dried off earlier, but shook it off and turned to the frightened servants. “Don’t be afraid! I’m still here.”

The two wagons pulled out in front. The horses snorted and brayed as the guards got off and shielded the weakest servants, guiding them towards the back. The head guardsman could barely squint in the torrential downpour, but he nodded to Hayasaka. “All ready at your command, milady!”

Her wet hair stuck to her face, but even then she couldn’t help but twitch her lips at being called ‘milady’ again. She nodded back. Then she echoed behind her. “Alright, let’s get moving!”

A trek in heavy rain is never a pleasant experience, for humans or Lumiens alike. Hayasaka had nothing on her own head; she realized she was going to get sick after this. But she let the wagons lead the way, while she marched back and forth between the groups, barking at them to keep heart and keep moving. Some curse and gripe, but nobody leaves the formation. More lightning flashes in the background.

The trip wasn't uneventful. More than once, somebody slipped, or the wagons would hit a bump in the road that made its occupants squeak out loud. Not looking at where she was going, Hayasaka nearly fell down herself, save for her reflexes. Instead her skirt and boots got splattered in mud. The guards hissed at each another that their group was either too close or too behind. Even though the town was only a kilometer away, the march seened to go on forever.

Just as Hayasaka started to fear that panic would spill at any moment, the town’s community noticed their arrival. It was still daytime, but each house opened their doors and lit up their lamps. They quickly met with the head guardsman, and he pointed to Hayasaka.

A tall, old woman enveloped in a heavy cloak walked up to her. “Milady Ai, you’re reckless to have come down here in a storm this severe.”

“It was not my choice, madam.” Hayasaka swept the hair away from her face. “I could never go against milady Kaguya’s bidding. And besides, we’ve been intruded upon. I deduce they might still be among us. But I don’t want to suspect or throw names until we have shelter from the rain.”

The old woman made tsk tsk sounds, but immediately went back and ordered everyone who could spare their homes to welcome the drenched palace staff. As they got situated, the head guardsman approached her. “What do we do now?”

“Stay here…” Hayasaka mumbled, swaying a bit. “I should find her Ladyship, the princess. She might be at the safehouse.” If she got that far, part of her thought quietly. But then, one thing made consistent about Kaguya is to never underestimate her, so she just had to believe. Trust Lady Kaguya to find a way.

Hayasaka’s vision was swimming. She reckoned she only needed to rest for five—no, ten minutes—before going back out into the storm. Yes, just sit down and rest the eyes for a bit. Maybe the rain would let up a bit afterwards…

Lady Kaguya… please be safe.

 

---

 

A low resonating boom shook the walls of the palace, and soon after the two girls could hear the urgent voices and rallying shouts of the staff making their way down the corridors which they avoided. It seems their cunning trap had worked as intended, giving them the opportunity to sneak around the back halls of the palace as they made their way to the stables located outside in order to secure their way out. Once they reached the large wooden doors, together they peeked inside to ensure the coast was clear, then tiptoed into the living quarters of dozens of horses.

Chika pinched her nose. “Eugh, it smells.”

“You don’t say. Didn’t your father get you and your sisters horses as gifts?”

“Yeah, riding them is the fun part! This is just gross.”

Kaguya received some training with horseback riding and only limited experience. She’d seen experts in action and knew the theory -- she hoped it would be enough for her to make it work. 

By the looks of it many were already saddled and ready for travel due to her originally planned trip to the capital, but no personnel were in sight. As they walked past the rows of equines, Kaguya saw some geared with warbows at their sides -- a weapon she was very fond and familiar with. Despite falling out of favor, cavalry archers remained highly flexible in small units, and offered advantages over firearms which were slow and awkward to use while riding, not to mention useless in the rain like now. But it took considerable skill and practice.

“Chika, go get the doors, I’ll come pick you up. As soon as we’re outside, we make a break for it.” As Chika did as she was told, Kaguya led the horse out of its shed. She tied her hair back to keep it out of the way, then donned the archery gear on her arms and slung the bow over her shoulders. She hoisted herself into the saddle and placed her feet on the stirrups, securing her balance. Right then she heard shouting from outside the doors and Chika running back towards her.

“Some guards are coming!”

Damn it! She reached out. “Take my arm Chika, quickly!!”

Chika grabbed her arm, and she pulled her up to sit behind her.

“Hold onto the saddle!” 

“Wha-” Before she could ask, Chika yelped as Kaguya snapped the reins and the horse instantly took off with a startled whinny. Instead of holding onto the saddle as instructed, she instinctively clutched her arms tight around Kaguya’s waist and pulled herself close to avoid falling off.

As they gained speed and blazed towards the door, two figures emerged at the entrance in time to witness a massive horse barreling down towards them, and promptly dove out of the way. 

Kaguya caught sight of their faces: it was the imposter guards from the earlier attack.

They sprinted out of the courtyard and followed the path towards the direction of the port city. Gusts of rain blasted their faces, and she squinted to see ahead. Her legs desperately clutched the horse’s muscular body while steering with the reins. The thundering gallops filled their ears in tempo with their pounding heartbeats.

“KAGUYA-SAN, THIS IS TERRIFYING YET SO MUCH FUN!!!” Chika screamed into her ear over the raging wind.

Kaguya could hardly afford to process the hysterics of her friend. “GET A HOLD OF YOURSELF YOU TWAT, WE’RE FIGHTING FOR OUR LIVES!!”

“I KNOW BUT I CAN’T BELIEVE WE’RE DOING THIS TOGETHER, AHAHAHA!!!” She couldn’t tell if she was laughing or crying. Probably both.

She heard another low rumble from elsewhere, and she glanced behind. The two assailants had mounted horses as well and were now chasing them down. She could tell they were skilled and experienced from watching their riding technique even at a distance, and they were slowly gaining on them. She had to do something.

“Chika, I need you to let go of me and grab the reins!”

She lifted her head from Kaguya’s back. “What?! But I don’t know how to ride!”

“Just hold it and steer by pulling left or right!”

She vigorously shook her head. “No, I can’t! I’ll make us fall!”

“Yes you can! If you don’t we’re going to be killed!”

Her demands were met with further pleas and rejection. She wasn’t going to be convinced this way. She gritted her teeth.

“Chika, listen to me! I brought you along because I trust you more than anyone!! Do you trust me?!”

Chika froze, and she felt her arms around her waist relax.

After a few seconds of silence, she answered with a steady voice. “I trust you Kaguya.”

Her words rang through with resounding clarity, and for a moment everything in the world faded away.

The galloping of their pursuers intensified.

She took a deep breath. “Here, take the reins from my right!”

Kaguya holds the reins at her right side, and Chika tentatively releases her clutch from Kaguya to take them over. She unslings the bow from her shoulder and grips it with her right hand. Then she swings her left leg over the front, pivoting on her saddle to sit facing right.

“What are you doing?!” Chika exclaims.

“Push down on my legs with your arms!”

She notched an arrow, then carefully leaned backwards as Chika weighed down on her thighs to keep her from falling over, her bow pointed up towards the sky in a ready position. Her core muscles trembled with effort to keep herself balanced against the horse’s jostling. As she looked rearward she saw the enemy close on their tail a few dozen meters away. It was hard to tell, but she thought she faintly saw their eyes widen at her spectacle.

She inhaled and cleared her mind, going through the motions of her countless hours of archery and meditation. She eyed her target, then slowly brought her bow to bear and drew the string back with rock-steady strength and elegance.

Right then a sudden jolt interrupted her draw, and she lost grip of her arrow which flung harmlessly away. The muddy path was rough and uneven, and Chika was steering the horse sporadically.

“Chika, keep it still!!”

“It’s hard to see ahead!!”

She reached for another arrow and aimed once more. The pursuers began to weave back and forth to make themselves harder to hit. She carefully tracked their movements, and drew the arrow back.

Exhale.

She loosed the arrow, and it narrowly sails past her target’s left side.

A little more lead.

One of the pursuers signals their hand forward, and they both begin charging to close the distance from the left and right.

“Kaguya they’re coming!!”

Her body ached from the strain, but it was now or never. She notched her third arrow and drew it back with tired arms, yet maintained perfect form and precision as she aimed for the one on her right. Now that they were closer and charging in a straight line, there could only be one outcome.

She fired, and the arrow impaled the assailant’s collarbone; he wailed in agony as he was thrown off the horse onto the ground.

However from the left corner of her eye, she saw the other assailant rapidly coming within striking distance with a sword in hand.

“CHIKA, DUCK!!”

Kaguya reached over and threw the entire bow overhead Chika at the enemy horse’s face. It struck its nose, causing it to frighten and swerve away as the pursuer clutched the reins to regain control.

“HOLD ON!!” She suddenly pulled the reins back hard, forcing their horse to grind to a halt and rear up in surprise with a frightened whinny along with Chika’s screaming. The pursuer sped past them, unable to react in time.

Kaguya leapt off the horse with an arrow in hand and ran to pick the bow off the ground. The pursuer up ahead turned around and began charging straight towards her with their sword held high.

Chika shouted in alarm. She paid no heed, steeling herself as she notched her one and final arrow, and stared down her target.

The assailant bellowed a warcry. Time slowed to a halt; she could see every droplet falling from the sky, the splashes of puddles from their horse’s galloping hooves, and the desperation in her opponent’s eyes. She stood resolute, raised her bow, and drew the string back until it caressed her cheek -- a perfect draw.

It’s over .

She released. The shot whistled through the air like an unwavering songbird, and pierced straight into the assailant’s skull with a violent crack. The assailant fell backwards from the horse and crashed into the muddy earth with a cacophony of clattering from his armor and sword, before his body lay motionless and silent beneath the cold rain, and his horse trotted away masterless.

Kaguya let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding, and kneeled to the ground as her legs gave way, clutching her forehead. Chika ran up to her side.

“Kaguya! Are you alright??”

She gasped for air as the adrenaline wore, and her muscles trembled terribly from overexertion. Black spots filled her vision, so she didn’t move until her headache faded away a few minutes later, her heartbeat steadily subsiding.

“...I’m fine, just needed to rest…we need to keep moving.” She said between breaths.

Chika opened a water canteen and lifted it to Kaguya’s lips which she graciously drank from.

“Thank you…help me onto the horse. You’ll have to take us to the port.”

“Don’t worry, Kaguya. I think I got the hang of it.” She grinned.

How her friend could still manage to smile in a moment like this amazed her.

What would I do without you?

================

A light jolt stirred Kaguya awake from her slumber. As she came to, she found herself leaned against her friend’s back atop the horse. 

“Kaguya, we’ve arrived at the port.”

Though she still had a headache, the much-needed reprieve helped her regain enough strength to muster with.

Scanning around, they were now indeed in the harbor city, on the way to where they needed to be.

“Stop here.”

They halt and demount, helping Chika off the horse.

“We’re almost to the safehouse. We’ll go the rest of the way on foot to keep a low profile.”

“But what about the horsey?” Chika pouted.

She rolls her eyes. “It’ll be fine, someone else will take good care of it. Now this way.”

They make haste splashing down the road, their dresses having become completely soaked. They headed towards quieter residential districts, away from the bustling town center. She periodically looked over her shoulder to ensure they weren’t being followed.

Chika leaned in. “What’s next?”

“Our destination is a few blocks away in that direction; we’re close.”

Neither of them were familiar with the area, especially Kaguya who personally never visits the city. However she navigated with clear direction, able to identify landmarks and streets after memorizing areas surrounding key locations. Following the map in her head, she knew exactly where they were.

Kaguya spots the library—the safehouse was just around the corner. They make the turn and look down the street. There was a row of large two-story houses, indistinguishable from any other. Kaguya eyes one in particular.

“That’s the one; the scribe’s residence.”

Chika raises her eyebrow. “The safehouse is a plain old home? That’s not what I expected.”

“That’s the point. Now hurry.”

They make the final dash to the doorstep. It was dark and appeared empty. Kaguya knocks. Immediately a man speaks from behind the door. “Who is it?”

“A lost and weary wanderer with only the Moon to guide me.”

After a pause, they begin to hear metal locks being undone, and the door opens slightly. The man scans around, then quickly ushers the girls in. He locks the door behind them. Finally out of the rain, they sigh in relief, dripping water on the carpet.

“Milady, what happened?” The man was the guard, and wore a sword at his waist.

“Intruders at the palace, after my life.” Kaguya said in between breaths. “Where’s the scribe?”

“In the bathroom; poor timing I’m afraid. We’ll prepare to mobilize the civil guard.”

“Do so immediately.” She orders. Chika was panting hard, saying something indistinguishable about energy. The guard fetches a jug of water for them.

"Who do you think is behind this?" Chika finally gasped. 

Kaguya sat down on a chair. "I... I-I need to arrange my thoughts first. A lot has happened." 

The guard gently laid down the jug. "Please do not worry, milady. You should rest." 

She stared sternly at him. “Who said you could be so lax? You should be standing watch, not squabbling.” 

"Is that so, milady? Then forgive me..." 

A distinct clinking sound alarmed every sense in Kaguya's body. The guard was turned to the side, but leaning towards her. She could see how his hand was drawing the sword. "...but perhaps you should know when to submit to your betters." Kaguya was on her feet, but her eyes were wide in fear for someone else. "Chika, watch out!" 

As the blade swung down, a scream rung out. But it wasn't who she expected it to be. Chika, out of sheer boldness Kaguya never expected of her, had lunged forward and viciously bit down on the guard's hand. His yell of agony as he dropped the sword bewildered Kaguya for a whole moment. Chika eventually let go. Clutching his bleeding hand, the pain on his face morphed into anger. "You little bitch!" 

With his other hand, the enraged guard slapped his palm into Chika's face, causing her to fall to the ground. Furious, Kaguya surged forward and picked up the blade. Gritting his teeth, he turned to face her, and she sliced the sword cleanly across his neck. He gurgles and staggers, before collapsing onto the floor, blood pooling. 

She breathed hard. She let the sword slip from her hand and ran over to Chika, who was clutching her face. "Chika! Are you hurt?! Let me see your wound." 

Chika turned, bearing a fierce grin. A huge red mark was lined on her cheek, with a faint open cut, but Chika acted unfazed. "You sure showed him, Kaguya. I told you I'd do whatever I can for you." 

Kaguya let out a long sigh of relief. "You're such a fool. But... thank you." She helped her up. "But we need to leave. This safehouse is compromised." Kaguya motioned with her head towards a round, conspicuous barrel, and together they tugged it away. Underneath was a hatch to the cellar. "Down here and through the cellar door where the deliveries pass through. We run—run as far as we can." 

"You don't have to ask me, Kaguya," she raised her chin defiantly. "I told you before, 'over the edge of the earth, and back.' Let's go." 

Notes:

Sorry for the wait! This was a challenging chapter for us to figure out, and our fickle schedules contributed to delays. But after many rewrites, with perseverance we've succeeded. We have a clearer road going forward, and we'll take advantage of it to write more. Again, thank you readers for enjoying our story; it's a privilege. Consider leaving comments, we love hearing your thoughts! -A Weeby Pilot

Chapter 10: A Change of Plans

Notes:

Welcome back to the fic! We know, it's long overdue, and that's an overstatement. But we've plucked up our guts and finally finished it despite becoming more busy as of lately. We're hard at work to regain our momentum and deliver the remaining chapters, in order to wrap up the first volume of our work.

We hope you enjoy!

Kaguya led the way through the streets, moving between passerbys while rain pelted off their mantles. Both girls were mostly silent. They had to keep moving, but any momentary attempt to concentrate was disturbed by the splatter of puddles, or the rain getting in their eyes. The girls dashed across an intersection. 

“Umm, Kaguya,“ Chika tugged on her sleeve. “When we get to the docks, what’s the next step? I mean… what are we supposed to do in this situation?” 

Kaguya turned over her shoulder to look imploringly at Chika, resisting the urge to avert her eyes towards the shadowy parts of the street. “Over the edge of the world and back. That wasn’t such a bad idea. In fact, it may help us buy enough time to get away.” 

“By doing… what exactly?” 

“By leading them on a wild goose chase, cross-continent.” Kaguya firmly believed in keeping one step ahead of the pursuers. If that meant traversing oceans and mountains to get far away enough, it would sound ridiculous, at first. “I just need more time to think. But I can’t bring myself to think now, with our lives at stake. They’ve got Lumiens chasing us. There’s no way we can get far unless we do it now, by riding a ship to the Orient.” 

“I trust in your plan, Kaguya, but there’s one thing I don’t quite get,” Chika asked while loosening her mantle. “Why do we have to go across the ocean just to get away? Couldn’t we just lay low here in the Imperata?” 

“That’s what I thought initially,” Kaguya admits. “But I have this feeling…someone is conspiring to get rid of me, but what’s there to gain from it? My quick guess is that somebody needs me gone so they can assume power, although that’s not exactly how it works in our monarchy.” Kaguya was technically the crown princess, because the matriarchal nature of their empire values the daughters above the sons. Her brothers are in high positions, but they’d be lesser to her when it comes to the throne. 

“To get rid of the heiress is to radically challenge not just the Imperial dynasty, but also the way we have been doing things as Lumenkind. I’m assuming the upstarts who dream of that want to kill me before they take the fight to my father, the regent.” 

“I’m not sure I follow completely,” Chika mumbled. “But what does it have to do with going abroad to escape them?” 

“I was about to get to that,” Kaguya sniffed. “They might have more supporters than we think. That guard from the safehouse, he was one of the only ones privy to my escape plans. This type of emergency planning had been set in place by my mother before. Whether he was bought or persuaded to betray me, it might not just be him. Who knows how many are part of the conspiracy?” The maid’s face flashed briefly in her mind. 

“We can’t stay here. They might as well know where we are. We might just be walking into their trap.” Kaguya glared at the next alleyway they were about to enter, but changed her mind, pulling Chika away with her. “It would be different if I could fly. I could just solve this entire thing single-handedly. But we have to assume they have everything in place, that they can make a move anytime. Going outside their reach will throw a wrench in their plans. They would have to follow us all over the world if they wanted to catch us. Will they go through the effort? Or will they give up the chase, allowing me to plot a counterattack?” 

“For now, the Orient is a good idea. Maybe we can go all the way to Volaria if we have to.”  Kaguya let out a lopsided smile. "I hope so," Kaguya replied. "We'll be relying on their hospitality and lack of inherent prejudice. There are no guarantees, of course. But a small chance is better than none." 

"Well don't worry about doing the talking, Kaguya!" Chika exclaimed smugly. "I'm human after all—surely I can convince anyone of our harmlessness!" 

"Well and good, Chika." Kaguya muttered under her breath. Well, there's little time to dwell on it for now. "Let’s keep moving. The docks are close." 

They descended a flight of stairs. With Hayasaka subsidizing the local port, Haiyun Harbor was expanded to accommodate limited imports and exports between ambitious Oriental traders. Normally, going into here would greet you with tons of exclusive things that are allowed to pass through the port, but the storm has kept most ships from offloading their goods. The only people moving about are fishermen who don’t mind getting wet, as they haul their catches into the yard. 

Observing from the corner of the alley, Kaguya spotted a man next to the nearest ship, supervising workers and ticking items off a list beneath an awning. “Chika, do you see that man watching the sailors?” She directed Chika to where she was pointing. “Can you try talking him into telling you which ship can depart within the hour, without giving away too much?” 

Chika turned back and nodded, a determined smile on her face. “Leave it to me!” she winked before heading off. 

The man noticed Chika approaching, and started raising his hand. Before he could say something, Chika giggled endearingly, leaning forward and fluttering while flashing a disarming smile. “Dear mister,” she said, “I’d like to borrow you for a few questions, but I’m hoping I didn’t come at the wrong time.” She emphasized the timidness of her voice. 

The sailors looked up from their work, but the official sharply waved them away. Clearing his throat, he asks her what she needs. Delighted, Chika makes a few bubbly gestures to the ships, chatting about the frequency of trade. “It must be hard work, having to manage so much cargo all at the same time.” 

“Ah, don’t worry too much about that,” laughed the official. “In fact, distribution is rather rapid. Well, I mean, these merchants simply offload their cargo and get out as quickly as they can. You might think they’re worried about something, but her Ladyship Ai Hayasaka cares intimately about trade. She designed a paperwork system that minimizes the hassle of transfer. All I have to do is to keep track of all the ships coming in and out. And of course, making sure the goods are transferred safely into the warehouse.” He scowled towards the sailors. 

“I suppose the merchants appreciate the speed of the transactions,” humored Chika. 

“Perhaps they do. I think it does well for a few frequent visitors. Those ones make several round trips between here and the Orient. They appreciate our exports.” 

Chika clasped her hands together. “Could you tell me more about them?” 

After talking a bit longer, the official explained he had to get back to his duties, and excused himself. Chika curtseyed and went back to Kaguya. “I found what we need to know,” she relays. “There’s a certain steam brig docked at the end of the pier. She’s noted to make the most trips out of all the ships currently here. They’ll leave as soon as the rain lifts.” It’s the perfect opportunity to get away. 

Kaguya concurred. “Lead the way then.” They walked down the pier with heads kept low, drawing the least attention to themselves. They did their best to avoid having to talk to someone, just in case they might pass it on later to their pursuers.  

Eventually they got to the ship. Underneath an umbrella, there stood two men chatting among themselves. One of them had a round body, tucked underneath a leather vest. A longsword and two flintlocks rested on either side of his waist. The other had maroon breeches and blue trousers, seemingly made of fancier material than the typical garb. 

They stopped when the girls approached. Chika looked at Kaguya, the latter stepping forward. “I beg your pardon, good men.” She looked directly into their eyes. “We’re here on behalf of a local trading company. We’d like to personally experience the Orient for the sake of our superiors’ goals. We would like to hire you for a trip to Bastani.” 

The round sailor blinked. The fancy sailor cocked his head inquisitively. “How interesting,” said the fancy one. He had a suave tone that was thick and drawled, giving him an almost ruggish voice “Out of all the ships in the harbor, you pick a nondescript brig at the far end of the pier. Why is that?” 

Chika stepped forward too. “We’re looking for a mix of speed and discretion. After all, we’re here—” she pulled out several shiny gold pieces, dancing them over her fingers. “—on official business.” 

“Just not our business,” the fancy sailor nodded sagely. “Come aboard then, ladies.” 

The girls extended their hands as the men helped them onto the deck. The steam powered brig looked a few years old, but has probably been out at sea longer than it has been in port. Attention was paid particularly to the rotor wheels and the masts, perhaps to outsail a squall. Several crates secured by tarp were strewn about the deck, and the few cannons on board lay idle and dormant. 

Several sailors climbing out of the lower deck watched curiously at the girls passing by. The two men led them into the cabin, where two more sailors were hunched over a nautical chart. The fancy man dismissed them both, the round man closed the door  behind them. 

“I believe we should introduce ourselves first. My name is Captain Julius, and that’s my first mate, Takushi. Welcome aboard the Intrepid .” In this light, it’s more apparent that the Captain looks like an Oriental, although maybe from the north. The first mate, on the other hand, looked Imperial. Maybe they’ve worked closely together before? 

The Captain leaned back on the table, crossing his arms in a relaxed way. “So, trip to the Orient, eh? What’s your offer?” He was staring directly at Kaguya, who still had her hood on. Chika had removed hers the moment they got inside. 

Chika gave a winsome smile, lifting a bulky purse. “Everything in here, we’ll give you half right after we set sail, and the other half when we arrive.” 

Captain Julius made some clicking sounds as he eyed the purse. “You’ve got a lot of money to splurge, for a pair of representatives. Wouldn’t you normally offer something you can afford, and we’d haggle from there?” 

“Like you said, we have the money.” 

His eyes narrowed. “Your organization would let you spend so much on travel fees? Sounds like you’ve either got a generous employer… or something’s not right.” 

Chika paused. She had to pick her next words carefully. Despite the hefty offer, he’s still testing them. She had to clear the misunderstanding without looking more suspicious. She silently drew a breath, preparing to speak. But Kaguya stepped forward. 

She sized them up, speaking coldly. “If you know what’s good for you, then pocket the money, take us to Bastani, and keep your little mouths shut about this whole ordeal.” Then to Chika’s shock, she pulled off her hood. 

The first mate gasped. “I-It’s her… It’s her Highness! Milady Kaguya!” The man tried to kneel, but his longsword bumped into the door, awkwardly preventing him from doing so, so he decided against it. 

Captain Julius nodded, smirking. “Royalty… Begging your grace, milady. Are you the crown princess? If so, why’s a lofty noble girl like you trying to make her way to the Orient like this?” 

“None of your business,” Kaguya continued curtly. “Your only concern is to sail us there, no questions asked. Do that, and we’ll uphold the end of our bargain. Do I make myself clear?” 

The wide-eyed Chika couldn’t form words. The Captain raised his hands placatively. “It’s alright. If this really is ‘official business,’ then maybe the less we know, the better. I swear upon my honor that we’ll get you there.” Captain Julius winked. “Can we agree on that?” 

Kaguya looked back to Chika, and after collecting herself, stepped forward too. “Not to worry, Captain! We promise not to get in the way of your business as you would not with ours.” She clapped her hands. “You wouldn’t supposedly have any spare lodgings, would you?” 

“We got a room for you on the lower deck,” first mate Takushi offered, nodding to the Captain. “I’ll take you there. Here’s hoping the weather subsides, so we can leave in the next half hour.” 

 

---

 

The girls are led to their room. It’s a compact cabin with the only furniture being two separate beds on opposite sides of each other, the room is relatively spacious, with enough legroom to stretch. A large porthole shows the foggy grey sky, and the rolling sea. 

Takushi bowed and left, leaving them alone in their silence. It took a few long seconds before Kaguya breathed a sigh of relief. Even though she was pretty much certain that they'd escaped any pursuits, it’s no easy thing to let your guard down after all they’ve been through. 

Chika, however, had no such restrictions. She only paused for a moment before going over to the porthole, flipping the latch and opening it. “Aaaaaaaahhh,” she purred indulgently. 

Kaguya’s eyebrows shot up as she frowned in disapproval. For heaven’s sake, Chika. Although indiscreet, there’s little impact it’ll do now that they are on the ship. In any case, maybe she could try and relax too. After all, she needed the energy for thinking. 

Kaguya claimed the left side of the room, while Chika claimed the right. As she sat down, she felt a sudden weariness overcome her. The stresses of the day are finally catching up. She groaned irritably as she gently stretched her arms and legs. 

Chika pulls herself away and glances at Kaguya, eyebrows raised. “Are you alright?” 

“I’m fine, just exhausted,” She tugged at her bunched up collar. Chika peeked out the door to request for a bucket of water. When they receive it, she puts it down in front of them as they take turns dipping towels into the bucket. As Kaguya wiped her face and arms, she noticed a faint crimson residue staining the towel. It’s probably from… 

She thought back to that moment: the sound of metal tearing through flesh; the wretchedness etched on the poor girl’s face; how she looked on as the blood pooled beneath her feet. She only felt grim amazement at the time. But then she thought of what happened a few minutes earlier—the pleasant banter, the sweet tone in her voice. Such a contrast between two faces. Was it even genuine? 

She reasoned to herself that she should let it go for now, but it still nagged at the back of her head. She turned her attention to Chika, who was now tenderly attending to the cut on her cheek. Kaguya moved over to examine. “Let me look at it.” 

Chika groaned, but relented. “I’m fiiiine, Kaguya,” she muttered. “It’ll take a lot more than this to bring me down.” 

“Your impulsive action was touching, but incredibly reckless. You could’ve just stayed out of harm's way, so you wouldn’t need to have gotten hurt.” 

She was on the verge of a dismissive wave. “I did what was right to me at the time.” 

“That’s going to bite you back someday.” She finished by dabbing a bit of salve on her wound. “There you go. Don’t go touching it, you hear?”  

Chika nodded amusedly. She thought that this side of her wasn’t so bad. It was adorable, even, but she wouldn’t like to hear it put like that. But now it was time to address the elephant in the room. As Kaguya sat down, she said, “Kaguya… What do you think about this? Who was behind all of it? Why do they need to kill you?” 

She sighed wearily. “The way I see it, there's one possibility—somebody powerful wants me dead. Nobody knew where the safehouse was, not even Hayasaka was close enough to be briefed on it. The place was meant to be for myself, hiding until I got picked up and transferred to another group. But the guard was appointed by the Royal House, and yet he turned on me. I don’t know the means they used to convince a traitor, but we’re not the type to just bite each other's necks for petty rewards." 

Chika pondered. “If this was a quarrel involving the other factions, it wouldn’t make sense; none of them are poised to do anything significant in Hanan, and killing you like this wouldn’t help anyone.” 

While Shinomiya rule is iron fisted, it has shown a decent understanding of what keeps a diverse empire together. Made up of various factions, the Shinomiya scions personally kept them in check, like Kaguya had done with the region of Hanan. The Imperata prized loyalty above all else, and those who are more than ready to do so are more likely to earn the Emperor’s goodwill. 

Kaguya shook her head. "Perhaps someone is dissatisfied with the current regime. They’re trying to defy it, foolhardy as they are, by starting with me.”  

Chika leaned forward. "Could it be the Shijo Republic?" 

"Mm…" she looked at her. The republican revolt of the Shijos—collective name of the most outspoken members of the conquered clans—argue for an unbelievable system; where governors and kings serve by plebiscite vote. An armistice was declared two decades ago after a brutal stalemate on their rebel island, but if it was them who ordered the attack… 

Kaguya frowned pensively. "Maybe they would do it, but the infiltrators were Lumiens. Their other mercenaries sounded more Occidental to me. I don't see how the Republic would get that kind of manpower. And targeting me of all people? I don’t see what the Republic gains in killing me." 

Chika pursed her lips, and dropped her voice low. "Maybe they just didn't know the full consequences of killing you?" 

"...it’s possible, but also incredibly unlikely in so many ways," she sighed. 

This was going nowhere. The whole thing frustrated Kaguya to the core. Something wasn't making sense. Rarely does she ever feel so stuck. She wanted to know, as soon as possible; she hates it when she can't understand. 

It's always been like this. No matter how smoothly things are going, no matter how well thought my plans are, I’m never truly ready. I’m no genius. I’m not special; hell, I cannot even fly. And the way I trembled at the slightest blood—    

"...Kaguya?" 

She snapped back to reality at Chika's voice. Kaguya looked up at her, a hand on her balled up fist. No tears welling in her eyes; she wouldn't demean herself by sobbing, but she came to realize the sound of her own shallow breath. 

The two stayed still. "Chika… It's nothing. I'm fine." 

"...No you're not." 

"Yes I am." 

"No you're not." 

"I said I'm fine! " she snapped. 

Chika pulled her lips taut. "Are you really?" 

A moment of silence. 

"This is useless." 

"You've always been stubborn, Kaguya. I know first-hand." Her eyes were entirely serious. "Don't worry, I won't say anything. But please, tell me: are you fine? " 

More silence. 

Kaguya glared at her. For all the silliness in the world that she's known for, Chika knows how to make a point. 

"...I...I thought I was…" 

There, I've said it. Are you happy now? Despite herself, Kaguya smirked bitterly. I'm so pathetic. 

But true to her word, Chika only prodded, "Tell me about it." 

Yet another moment of silence. She knew she had no choice. "So… There was a girl back in the estate. Michiru, her name was. Bright and warm, just like you. 

"Her blood is on my hands. I know I had every right to kill her for treachery, but…" she turned away. "I don't know why I'm regretting it. It was the most pragmatic choice I had. The other two, I couldn't see them clearly, but I felt nothing. I felt nothing. 

"Yet when I turned on her, stabbed my knife into her ribs, a part of me recoiled. I don’t know why. She wasn't innocent; for all I know, her story must not be true. But still…" She threw her hands in the air. 

"I've trained all this time to protect myself. To kill. And I did, I was able to do it. But… that's it—the buts, yets, and stills. I don't know what's wrong with me." 

She went silent. Chika waited for her to speak again, but when no response was forthcoming, she simply said, "So… I may not look like it, but… I understand what it feels to take a life." She raised her eyebrows. Chika just shrugged. "I've gone out and tried hunting with my little sister. I've learned how to snare rabbits and loose arrows on a bow. Once I've stayed to watch my sister drain a buck's life away." 

From what little she had heard of her sister Moeha, Kaguya shuddered. But Chika continued, "All this time, I've been wondering why some animals exist to be eaten by others, and those animals to be eaten by us. Plants too. What I mean is that it's natural to feel emotions when it comes to death. It's not your fault if it wasn't the pragmatic experience you expected. I never knew watching Moeha slice a deer's neck could bring her so much joy." 

Your sister’s a lunatic, Kaguya thought. 

"Oh well, all I'm saying is that you shouldn't negate how you feel about Michiru's death. Don't suppress it. Just let it flow within you. You'll know what to do eventually." Chika got up from her kneel. "I'm hungry now. Can we get something to eat?" 

"I'm sure that within the three days aboard this ship, you’ll finish the kitchen’s stock," Kaguya simmered. While Chika guffawed at her tease, she thought to herself, She’s right. I shouldn't be so hard on myself. She came back to herself, citing the order of which food will run out first. 

Chika began protesting about the limits of her appetite. Kaguya simply laughed, and to her amusement and the latter’s chagrin, a sailor knocked on the door, bearing bread and jam for them. “Courtesy of the first mate, with the Captain’s blessing.” 

Chika spilled a number of thank yous and closed the door. And as the bells tolled, the ship soon called into motion. They were ready to go. 

Kaguya set her worries aside. For now, she should relax, for real this time. The winds hummed, and the waves moored, as the Intrepid set the course for the vast open sea.

 

---

 

The peregrine falcon took off from the ship deck, catching the misty winds beneath its wing. It flew speedily towards its faraway destination, fulfilling its mission to deliver the encapsulated letter tied to its foot.

Notes:

Thanks for reading! One of the things that reminded us to finish our work was the growing amount of people looking forward to it. We hope we do our best not to disappoint, and we hope you continue to support us as you witness this story with us. See you next chapter!

Chapter 11: Starting Line

Notes:

9/14/23
Minor revisions in Chapter 3: Humankind
Added scene in Chapter 9: Shattered Veil

It’s been over two years since I’ve released the last chapter. Now might be a good chance to reread with the noted changes? :)
The last two years have been pretty surreal -- a lot of dreams come true beyond my wildest imaginations, a lot of fearful and doubtful moments, and a lot of the same old. Many times I’ve had to remind myself why I love what I do, and why I must push forward.
But I’ve never forgotten this story, nor you readers; far from it in fact, as I endlessly tried to figure out my plans. Now that we’re finally here, I hope you enjoy.

Special thanks to HitheroNihil for always being there with me -- my life would not be the same without him.

Word about the racing incident spread like wildfire. For the last week, dozens of letters have been shoved through the Shirogane household’s front door, turning into a rather significant pile of paper. All of them were from newspaper presses hunting for a hot story from the airplane maker who crash landed in the middle of the city. 

Some reporters tried to get in touch with them directly, in the hopes of getting an exclusive interview. Even his friends Karen and Erika paid a visit, with pen and paper in hand. The attention skyrocketed Miyuki’s spirits, for he, a teenage nerd who mostly kept to himself, had suddenly gained the recognition he sought all along.

“YEEEEEAAAAAH, I’M FAMOUS, WOOOOO!!!” Miyuki exclaimed while pumping his fist victoriously towards the sky. “WE’RE GONNA BE RICH, SIS!!!” 

“SHUUUT UP, YOU’RE SO DAMN LOUD!!!” Kei retorted.

Alas, he and his party were bound by a non-disclosure agreement, forbidding them from sharing anything until the investigation was over. It’s such a shame; how nice would it be to share his heroics with the world! 

Not to mention, it’s the perfect opportunity to show off their company. Even if the committee doesn’t sponsor me, with the amount of attention we’re getting it won’t be long before the business orders start rolling in!” Miyuki thought cheerfully to himself. “Who knows, I might even be able to produce my own airplanes someday!” And so business went on as usual, with Miyuki anticipating his big break to come knocking at his front door.

 

==========

 

Heavy grey clouds blotted the sunlight to the dining room. Miyuki sat hunched over the dimly lit table, his eyes scanning the various financial statements spread before him. Dirty tableware lay untouched in the sink; there were far more important matters at hand than chores.

A week has gone by since the competition. As Miyuki bid his time with patience, the letters dwindled down until they eventually stopped coming at all. Public interest was all but lost, and their attention has been turned away to the newest fads.

No one else sought business with them. Business went on as usual—in the sense that nothing has changed. Miyuki’s big break never came.

He clenched his teeth with balled fists. “I was so stupid. My plane crashed, of course no one wants anything to do with me! What was I thinking??”

The frustrated prodigy ran his fingers through his hair. In the background, the front door clicks and swings open. Miyuki’s father clears his throat as he struts into the house.

“Yo, Papagane’s in the house.”

He buries his face. “Please don’t speak like that, it’s awful.”

“Gotta have some style, kid, or you’re not gonna get anywhere these days.” He hangs his hat. “You were full of spunk just a week ago too, what’s gotten you down?”

Miyuki looks up with weary eyes. “The competition was a failure. I thought we’d have something to show for it, but now we’re just left with a broken plane and no business. All that work going down the drain.”

Papagane saunters over and peers at the papers. He scans the lines for a few brief moments, before leaning back with a sigh that sounded more like a gust of air. “That’s what it is? Don’t fret it much, it’s no big deal.”

He turns red. “But what are you saying, Dad?! It is a big deal! We’re in the red because of me!”

“Whoa, slow down partner, I didn’t mean it like that.” He pulls up the chair opposite of Miyuki. “Younglings like you shouldn’t be the ones worrying about this so much. That’s supposed to be daddy’s job.”

“But that’s not being realistic, and please don’t call yourself daddy. ” Miyuki’s lips drew into a flat line. “We don’t have enough resources to repair the airplane, let alone find a new engine. And no one’s going to do business with an airplane manufacturer that can’t fly an airplane. At this rate, we’re going to go bankrupt…” 

His lips quivered, soundlessly opening and closing several times, until he could eventually utter his next sentence. 

“...So I’m going to give up all of this. We can sell the plane, and go back to a normal tooling company that actually generates some revenue. Then and only then, would I consider this again.” He ends with a tint of bitterness.

His father hummed and rocked his head side to side, as if juggling thoughts in his head. Miyuki wondered if his father was taking him seriously.

“Didn’t you expect it to turn out like this?”

“Well, yeah, but…”

“Even though you knew that, you competed anyway. You poured hours of sweat and blood to build an airplane you could be proud of.” Papagane stared at the light drizzle that started to patter on the window, drumming his fingers all the while. “Do you still remember when you got your hands on the Bleriot?”

Miyuki blinked at the sudden question. “Huh?”

“I’ve never seen you so excited before. You spent all night and day fixing it up nonstop. And when you finally finished, you couldn’t stop admiring your work.”

Miyuki tried to shut those thoughts out in a vain attempt at stubbornness. But despite himself, he could feel his heart beat faster.

“Your first flight lasted only twenty seconds, but that was enough to make you so ecstatic, that you didn’t even need the plane to fly from sheer joy,” he said, the corner of his mouth curving upwards.

Miyuki shook his head in confusion. “What’s your point?”

“Do I really need to spell it out? I know you’re smarter than that, my boy.” Papagane sighed.

“This isn’t about money. If you want to make airplanes, then you go out and make airplanes. You and I know it doesn’t end here. You’ve still got your life ahead of you—make the most of it. Or do you want to wait until you’re where I’m at, at an age where those opportunities are long gone?”

He saw it in Miyuki’s eyes; he knew his words struck home. As the boy furrowed in deep thought, he reached into his coat and pulled out a red envelope with a large wax seal. “This is for you.”

“What’s this?”

“A letter, duh.”

“I know, dad. What’s it about?”

“I dunno, didn’t open it. You can see that, right?” he replies with raised eyebrows.

Miyuki rolled his eyes, but he took the envelope from his father’s hand. Sure enough his name was written with a glossy sheen. He examined the stamp on the wax seal which seemed familiar, but he couldn’t remember what.

Hesitating for a moment, Miyuki removes the wax seal and opens the letter. He pulls out the ivory parchment, feeling the delicate friction as he slides it across his fingers. The calligraphy was written with a rich ink that was darker than anything he’s written with before. His eyes scan the lines one by one. As a minute passes, his eyes and mouth gradually widen in disbelief. He blinked twice, then went back to the beginning and skimmed all the way through it again. At last he let out a low gasp.

“...holy shit.”

 

===============================

 

Miyuki marches down the sidewalk of the bustling shopping district, passing finely dressed business adults. They left a fragrant scent that mixed with the exhaust of black cars driving on the streets. 

This area of Grand Port tailors to those with expensive tastes, therefore he never paid it a visit. However today was an exception, as the person he was going to meet had invited him to a high-end cafe here. 

Although he didn’t have much in the way of fashion, he did his best to dress for the occasion with his little sister’s guidance: a clean white dress shirt, brown vest and suit pants, and his black ivy cap; a perfect balance between business professional, and educated blue collar. She threatened terrible things if he got it dirty, so he steered well clear of any puddles of water.

He gingerly rubbed his hands. The anticipation had him restless all night, but he was used to all-nighters and his nerves kept him alert.

He scanned the fancy signs and windows hosting exquisite merchandise and advertisements like an unfamiliar tourist, until he spots the cafe named Evergreen . It was actually a smaller shop compared to the others, and painted dark green with a vibrant bed of flowers in front of its window. It wasn’t exactly a place that would catch your eye, but if one cared to stop and give it their attention, its humble warmth and beauty could be felt and appreciated like a piece of art.

It surprised him a bit, expecting something a bit more stereotypically grandiose. But it somewhat made him feel a little calmer.

Taking a deep breath, he clasped the door handle and stepped in. A bell tinkled to herald his entrance. The walls and furniture were of dark rose wood, and the aroma of tea and pastries wafted his senses. 

A waitress at the counter bowed at Miyuki. “Good morning sir.”

It takes a moment to find his voice. Taking off his hat and cradling it to his chest, he says, “Ah, good morning. Uh, my name is Miyuki Shirogane.” 

She nods. “You have been expected, Mr. Miyuki. Right this way.” 

He follows behind her, their footsteps muted by blue carpet. The front dining area is conventional and quaint, the whole area brightly lit by the large window. However, he is instead led down a hall with enclosed private booths, some of which are occupied with their doors closed hiding muffled conversation.

The waitress stops in front of the fourth one on the left, and gently knocks three times.

“Come in,” comes a young man’s response.

She opens the door and steps aside. He thanks her, and tentatively walks into the small booth.

Illuminated by the light coming through the window, upright against an upholstered chair with crossed legs, sits a man around Miyuki’s age. He flashes a warm grin as he enters. From a glance, Miyuki could already feel the difference between them before he even opened his mouth.

He is dressed in a classy sleek gray suit, made with fine velvet and pristine silver woven into silk. His hair and skin glowed, and his eyes carried a sharp yet mellow expression.

“It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Shirogane-san. Please, sit.”

Miyuki blinks and gulps before processing his words. Mumbling thanks, he takes his seat across from him.

“Thank you for taking the time to meet me. No doubt you are a busy man. I’ve heard wonderful things about this cafe, so I thought it’d do well as a venue for our discussion. My treat of course. I hope it’s to your satisfaction.”

“Y-yes, it’s very wonderful, thank you very much!”

He begins introductions, and puts his hand on his chest. “I am Mikado Shijo, son of the Shijo House, but please just refer to me as Mikado.”

Miyuki works his mouth to find his tongue. What’s the proper way to greet…??

He inclines his head. “I am Miyuki Shirogane. It is an honor to meet you, Sir Mikado. I am deeply grateful for this incredible opportunity you have granted me.”

He waves his hand and chuckles. “Oh, please, none of that! Just ‘Mikado’ will do. In fact I’m on somewhat of a vacation here, so I am set at liberty.”

A knock on the door, and the waitress steps with a tray in hand. She sets their steaming drinks and plates of delectables before them, then with a bow she slips away once more.

Mikado lifts his tea and sniffs the rim before taking a sip, then exhales satisfyingly. Miyuki raises his coffee to his nose and does the same. The aroma is rich and stimulating, and he sips. It slightly burns the tip of his tongue, but his mouth is awashed with the coffee’s thick and flavorful body. It had a tinge of bitterness and acidity that invigorated him. It’s unlike anything before.

“Firstly, I wish to share with you my admiration and respect for your performance at the competition. I’m sure you have many hard feelings about the outcome, but to have pulled off such feats for someone in your position is unfathomably impressive. It is a testament to your genius and dedication which deserves recognition.”

He rubbed his head with a shrug, turning away as to not show the heat rising on his cheeks. “I’m flattered and honored by your compliments, but truly I still have much to learn and improve.”

“A humble and ambitious mindset; you are a very bright man. What led you to devote your talents into pursuing flight?”

“Well…I was always fascinated by flight, and the clouds floating in the sky. It’s something humanity’s only ever dreamed of, but now we live in a time where such things are possible. To think I’m doing something nobody ever achieved with my very own hands…it excites me to no end.”

He finished, and Mikado raised an eyebrow. “That’s very lovely, but that’s not all, is it? If it were, you’d be content flying your tiny motorkite around the strip all day. But instead you decided to build a whole new airplane yourself for a race! That is no ordinary ambition of a high schooler.” He pointed intently at him. “Miyuki, you carry yourself as humble, but I want to know what madness within you drove you to such lengths.”

He was right; there was more to it, wasn’t there? As he searches his mind, he recalls his words in a conversation with Ishigami several weeks ago after school during an outing.

Still, there has to be more to it, beyond simple desires. The urge to fly claws at my every nerve. Everyday I find myself imagining the perfect airplane, one that could fly faster, and soar higher. I work at my desk designing and redesigning this ideal aircraft, not because I could achieve something greater, but because I feel I’ll never be satisfied. Surely that’s not just desire?

“...You’re right. I’m not satisfied with the way things are because we’ve hardly scratched the surface of what’s possible. I want to know how much higher and faster we can fly. I want to prove that I can make something better, and show the world that this is just the beginning of what’s to come.”

Mikado's mouth grew into a sly grin. “And thus the competition was your greatest opportunity to do so. How did you design and build your airplane, the Yumi Type-H?”

“Well, my father researched aviation, so I was able to pick up on his work. I made changes and improvements over several years of study and development, learning as I went. The Type-H itself was the final product of many design iterations. Manufacturing it took about a year. We didn’t have much capital, so we had to make do.”

Mikado throws his arms in the air. “Yet you and your plane stood toe-to-toe against industry leaders in the most technologically sophisticated race in the history of mankind!” He chuckles and shakes his head. “If you could make something like that in a garage, then I can hardly imagine the sort of creations you could conjure if you were granted the finest education and resources the world has to offer.”

Miyuki shakes his head. “I could never fathom anything like that. That sort of thinking is beyond any kind of reality for me. I’m just a school kid.”

Mikado folds his arms. “Well, there is an academy in Volaria where the sons and daughters of the world’s leaders and brightest minds come to study. Only those who are recognized as the best of humanity are considered worthy to attend. Its name is Shuchi’in Academy.”

Miyuki’s eyes widened. That was the emblem on the stamp from his letter he faintly recognized but didn’t remember. He has only heard of this academy on occasion like a legend or myth.

“I am a student of this academy, and have many powerful connections within it. I believe you are someone worthy of joining our ranks and becoming one of its students.”

He freezes. Then he awkwardly laughs. “That’s…that must be a joke, right?”

“I’m dead serious.”

“No no no, someone like me couldn’t possibly be good enough to attend Shuchi’in Academy!”

“Oh please, I’m well aware of your capabilities; there are students at Shuchi’in who achieve far less than you have already. Therefore, I have a proposition.”

He sits up straight and puts his hands together on the table, assuming a formal posture. The air suddenly chills, giving Miyuki goosebumps. 

“I can grant you acceptance into Shuchi’in Academy with a full scholarship. In return, you will spend your time helping to design airplanes for me, and will have access to an abundance of resources and skilled manpower to perform this task. This would be a dream come true for you, wouldn’t it?”

This is the exact thing he fantasized over and over again, the ultimate dream come true. It was all happening so quickly, and Miyuki’s mind was spinning in circles.

This can’t be real, could it? It’s too good to be true.

Miyuki blinked out of his stupor. What if it was too good to be true? Now that he slowed down to think, he realized he barely knew anything about who Mikado was or what he wanted from him.

He takes a shaky breath.

"Sorry, I needed to process that for a moment."

"It's all right. I can imagine how you feel."

Miyuki furrows his eyebrows, his hand fidgeting on the table.

"I'm honored by your generous offer, and I'm glad you think so highly of me. But this is too sudden, and I still don't know what this is all about. Perhaps, you could tell me more about yourself and what you want to achieve before I make my decision?"

For the first time, he sees Mikado’s face turn expressionless as he silently sips at his tea in contemplation. Time slows to a crawl, and the only sound he hears is his own heartbeat in his ears as he begins to panic, worrying he said something wrong.

Before he can react, Mikado nods.

“I completely understand your concerns, sharing with you is only fair. The story is a rather long one that requires a bit of context.”

He sets down the teacup and clears his throat.

“Are you aware of The Imperata in the Orient’s southeastern sea?”

The abrupt transition of the discussion subject stumped him. “I know there are several island territories in that region, but I’m not familiar.”

“This region is hardly well known in your part of the world -- throughout history, all of those islands were contested by numerous clans. However in the last few decades, one power managed to dominate and annex the region’s largest island and surrounding territories under its rule, referring to their new uniform sovereignty as The Imperata.

“The remaining clans fled to the second largest island; it is this island that my family presides over. With the unification of the rebelling clans and a new form of government, we have become known as the Shijo Republic.

These developments have drawn the attention of the rest of the world, and various nations seek to involve themselves in their own interests.”

Miyuki’’s jaw hangs open. “That’s incredible…I can’t imagine the stress and pressure.”

“Oh, it most definitely has its challenges.” 

“Excuse me for asking, but what are you doing here on this side of the world??”

“Many revered individuals walk the halls of Shuchi’in Academy, the kind of people who can move mountains with a single word.” Mikado lifts his fingers.

“For example, one is the daughter of a noble family who leads Volaria’s shipbuilding industry. Another is the successor to a Volarian province. One girl whose parents sit among Laiden’s High Court had recently enrolled. These are just a few examples of the sort of connections that can only be obtained here.”

He shuddered. "I’d be alongside people like THAT?? A guy like me would be way out of place!”

“I beg to differ; many students make contributions to sciences, and you are a perfect example: mechanized flight is a fascinating and novel field, you know this much more than anyone else here. Miyuki, what potential do you envision for aviation?”

Miyuki pauses as he comes up with a coherent answer. 

“Honestly, scientific progress is happening so quickly that the limits of what I think is possible are changing day by day. I believe a world connected by air is much closer than any of us think.”

An impressed smile. “You took the words right out of my mouth. Tell me, do you know what aspect contributed most to Volaria’s expansion and growth?”

Miyuki furrows his brow for a brief moment. “...It’s their shipping, isn’t it? Their ability to project influence and power…carry people and goods further and faster than anyone else.”

“Precisely; this is how all of the greatest nations rose to power. However, a vital aspect of transportation that is often overlooked is communication .” He traces a finger through the air. “All economies and militaries are built upon it. An effective network allows you to be aware of what is going on, and know how to organize, mobilize, and react. Nothing can be done if word does not travel.

“As it happens, our region is an archipelago of big and small islands that are rough and uneven, thus traversing has always been a challenge. However, airplanes are unhindered by the hurdles of land and sea. 

“Right now, only the few most advanced nations are pursuing aviation -- if we successfully develop our own industry, it will put us in the forefront ahead of the Imperata on the world stage, solidifying our existence as a sovereign nation.”

Miyuki takes a moment to process.

“What’s stopping you from simply outsourcing a manufacturer who could build airplanes for you? Why must you seek my help specifically?”

“Our political situation makes it a bit complicated. Other nations including Laiden and Volaria are hesitant to legitimately recognize the Shijo Republic, due to their own interests with the Imperata and our struggles with them. This has led to groups and businesses being unwilling or denied by their governments from working with us. We don’t have the domestic industry to build our own airplanes, so I needed to seek other answers here.

“At Suchi’in Academy, I managed to make friends sympathetic to my cause who are willing to supply the necessary resources and facilities to build what we need. However, all that remained was a craftsman who could actually design and build the airplanes for us. It had to be a private individual, ideally someone who could do the work at the academy. Then I heard of a little competition in Laiden…”

They exchange silent grins.

“When I learned what you accomplished and that you were in school, I knew you were exactly who we needed. With you attending the Academy under a work-study program, no one will bat an eye, and you will have access to everything to build your masterpieces.”

“But you said Volaria’s unwilling to work with you, right? How are we supposed to accomplish all of this, let alone ship planes to the Orient? And there’s the matter with engines -- I don’t design engines, only airframes. How are you going to get your hands on entire batches of airplane engines??”

“Miyuki, those are worries meant for me, not you. And unfortunately I can’t share anything more unless you agree to help me. Of everyone involved, I assure you your role has the least amount of risk involved. You will be simply studying abroad while designing airplanes in your free time. I will be taking care of everything else, as you reap all of the benefits at no expense. But believe me when I say this…”

Mikado suddenly stands up and extends his hand.

“...I can’t do any of this without you. Will you assist me in this endeavor?”

Miyuki could hardly comprehend what was happening. The last two months had been a rollercoaster ride of pride and accomplishment, near death, hope, hopelessness, then an opportunity of a lifetime. Suddenly, right here and now, his dream was becoming reality.

Am I really ready for something this big? Can I actually do this myself? Or am I in way over my head??

His father’s words pierced his thoughts.

If you want to make airplanes, then you go out and make airplanes.

A thought occurred to him. Miyuki returned an earnest look into Mikado’s eyes.

“If I’m going to do this…then I have one request.”

Chapter 12: Stormchaser

It was a dream of a distant memory, an incomprehensible blur of vague abstracts and feelings of what transpired that day.

She was outside with her mother. She could sense the gentle tone of her voice as she spoke nothingness to her. It filled her with warmth and nostalgia. She rarely got to spend time with her mother, and she cherished the moment.

Then the sky turned dark, and it began to rain. Her stomach dropped, and she suddenly found herself high above in the midst of a storm. Her heart raced with panic and confusion. Frightening black shadows in the blowing mist were chasing her. She flew as fast as she possibly could for her life. She didn’t know why, but that’s what her mother told her to do.

Where did her mother go? The raging wind screamed, and the world tumbled around her. She was alone and scared. The shadows drew nearer, no matter how hard she tried to flee. She closed her eyes and cried.

Suddenly she was blinded with white light, and her ears rang. The wind disappeared in an instant, and the world stopped spinning. When she opened her eyes again, she found herself kneeling on a dirt road. She didn’t have any strength to move. The droplets of rain felt hot and heavy against her bare skin. She wiped her face with her hand and examined it.

Blood. 

She looked up. The rain was red.

Blood was raining from the sky.

Something heavy struck the ground nearby with a morbid wet crunch, and she meekly looked. It was dark and the shape was unrecognizable, but she could see blood pooling underneath it. She scanned, and saw more of them scattered around her. Together they created a crimson river running down the road, and she was kneeling in the middle of it. A sick feeling welled up in her stomach, and black spots filled her vision.

A voice behind her called to her. It was warm and familiar, and it made her feel safe again. 

Mommy…

She desperately turned around. However instead of her mother, what she saw filled her with terror.

She opened her mouth and screamed.

 

==============

 

Hayasaka awoke in cold sweat to a throbbing headache. The memories of a dream quickly receded into a void, though faint feelings lingered in her heart. As she regained consciousness, she began to feel the rest of her aching body. It was a pain she was unfortunately familiar with: the consequence of pushing her body beyond its limits. She groaned; her mouth was parched.

Water…

Her eyes slowly opened, and the world around her gradually took shape. She found herself in a bed, staring at the all-too recognizable ceiling of the infirmary. It was a sight she long grew sick of, and she tried to remember what-

Kaguya.

Her heart leapt out of her throat and she bolted upright, only for her hands to hold fast with a loud clatter. She looked down at her arms: they were cuffed and chained to the bed frame.

“Are you alright?” A girl asked.

Hayasaka looked to her side and finally noticed the guard beside her, sitting straight and staring at her. She was about the same age, and had short, silvery blue hair with similarly tinted irises. She was dressed in combat attire painted with Imperata’s crimson coat of arms. A sword hung on her waist, and her helmet rested on her lap. She was an officer.

“What happened? Where is-” She choked and coughed violently from her dry throat. The guard extended a bowl of water to her mouth, and she took greedy sips until she broke for air. Her breathing settled; she recollected herself, though her head was still dizzy.

“Six hours have passed since you fell unconscious after evacuating the palace.” She spoke in a low professional tone with a stone expression.

“Since then the city garrison has been mobilized. Our squadron arrived from the capital to establish order and secure the area. Further reinforcements are en route.”

Hayaska's eyes widened, and she exclaimed the emblem on her uniform more closely -- it was sewn with the image of a demonic bat yokai.

They had almost slain her and her mother in the past. 

“Where is Lady Kaguya?” She scanned the other beds.

“Her highness has gone missing, and a search is underway. No other hostilities have been reported in the region, so it is being considered as an assassination attempt.”

Hayasaka glowered. “Then why am I chained?” A low rumble of thunder. The storm was still raging outside.

“As the one directly responsible for Her Majesty Kaguya Shinomiya’s safety, you are currently held under investigation for neglecting your duty, and suspected of betrayal.” She didn’t miss a beat. Hayasaka couldn’t believe what she was hearing.

“We don’t have time for this nonsense! We need to be out there searching for Lady Kaguya NOW!” Her chains rattled furiously as she struggled to move her arms.

“You are to remain under arrest. The possibility of the attack occurring as a result of your negligence or dereliction, or that you are a perpetrator, is under consideration.”

“ BULLSHIT!!” Hayasaka lost her patience. She couldn’t comprehend the utter slander against her in such a dire strait. After everything she’s done for the Shinomiyas and putting her life on the line, they would discard her like a dog without a second thought.

And they had the audacity to call HER a traitor?

“I followed orders! I am loyal! ” Her voice boomed in the hallway, followed by a loud crack of thunder.

The guard narrowed her eyes. “That will be for the Lords to decide. Our orders are to depart for your trial at the Imperial Palace immediately once the storm clears. Until then you are not to leave my sight.” 

The message was clear. This girl isn’t protection; she’s a threat.

 

==================

 

(Three days later.)

 

==================

 

The massive double doors of the throne room open, granting Hayasaka and the guards entry into the enormous hall. The room glistens with golden ornamentation lining every surface and chandelier, illuminated by large windows on either side. The roof is high and painted with murals of lumens and celestial bodies. Large marble pillars tower along the walls, from which large red banners of the Imperata hung from.

She was in handcuffs, and led with a chain by her guard, whom she has since learned to be First Lieutenant Momo Ryuju. Their muffled footsteps against the red carpet are the only sounds in the eerily silent and hollow room as they approach the throne. They stopped before a balcony of six highly decorated seats which established dominion over the entire Imperata. However, they were all vacant save for one. 

The two largest throne chairs in the middle were for the Emperor and Late Empress. The chairs to their right were for the First Prince who was preoccupied, and the Second who is currently on a diplomatic trip. The chairs on the left were thus for the Third Prince and Kaguya, the disappearance of whom along with the third daughter of the Fujiwaras was exactly the reason for this trial. 

Sitting laidback in the second left seat was the Third Prince. He had a slim figure and wore a fine intricate suit, with a large white coat over his shoulders. His jet-black hair was sleekly combed back, and his face aged with more years of experience than lived. However, what was most striking were his dark scornful eyes, whose blackness and depth were those of the abyss.  

Lord Un’yo Shinomiya. 

He meets her eyes. In an instant, her heart constricts, with fear coursing through her veins, although she dares not show it. If Kaguya’s terror was that of a piercing blizzard, then his was the pressure of the oceanic depths were light did not reach—dark and suffocating. 

The doors shut close, and everyone kneels to the ground. Ryuju speaks. “Milord, I present Ai Hayasaka of Hainan to stand trial.” 

He rests his face against his palm and heaves a tired sigh. 

“Why am I always the one stuck with the filth?” His voice is quiet and enunciate, yet low and intimidating. He flicks his hand up, and everyone rises back to their feet. 

“So the Hayasaka rats have finally shown their true colors. Tell me, is this the genuine product of a brainlessly conceived revolt, or just sheer incompetence?” 

Hayasaka did her best to keep her cool, despite the hammering pulses of her blood. She was well aware of the sort of horrific punishments the Imperata practiced against traitors, and there was no use begging or pleading. But if she is patient and plays smart to prove her usefulness, then maybe she still has a chance… 

“Let’s make it quick. You only have one chance to use your tongue before you lose it. Now speak.” 

It was all or nothing. She lifted her head. 

“Milord, the manner in which these events turn out is non-sequential,” She began. “Targeting Kaguya like this is a fool’s errand—there’s nothing to gain and everything to lose. Even our enemies know to fear the wrath of the Imperata. 

”But if I truly intended to harm the Princess, I could’ve done it myself. After all, it’s as simple as knifing her in the back. There’s no need for something as indiscreet as the attempt on her life a few days prior.” She paused, maintaining Unyo’s implacable gaze. 

“So you’re saying you could have easily killed my sister if you tried?” Unyo sneered without amusement. 

“I’m saying that I wouldn’t, and I never will,” Hayasaka says with conviction. “The fact that it took several assailants to attempt this means they wanted to assure the highest possibility of success. Yet they failed. Because they never stood a chance.” She steadies herself after getting worked up, and forces herself to keep looking at Unyo. “Being separated from Kaguya during this time was a regrettable circumstance, and the assailants surely exploited it. But despite this, I have full faith in her ability to handle herself without her with me.” 

“Your faith is commendable,” Unyo snaps. “If it were married to good sense!” 

Hayasaka bites her inner lip as he continues. “The fact remains is this: there was an attempt on my sister’s life, and now she’s missing. None of our people at the various safehouses have reported anything.” 

Tense silence fills the room as she waits for Un’yo’s response. 

“So where do you think she is?” 

Hayasaka blinks at his question. They have half the army searching across the Imperata, and he’s asking ME where I think she is? If they still have no clues… She racked her brain and quickly pieced together a timeline. 

“There’s no possible way she can stay hidden for long if she’s still on this island, which leads me to believe she must have fled overseas from Haiyun Harbor immediately after the attack. A thunderstorm followed shortly which lasted the entire day, leaving only a small window of opportunity for any ship to depart. If we can find the manifests for those ships and track them down, then that gives us a direction to find Lady Kaguya.” 

Silence returned as Un’yo judged her with an empty stare, and she stared valiantly back at the face of the devil. 

“Despite your loathsomeness, you still have a sliver of usefulness. So here’s how it will be...” 

For the first time he sits up, about to deliver his verdict. She inhales a trepid breath… 

 

========================= 

 

On one hand, not being tortured in a dungeon somewhere is a mercy by Shinomiya standards. 

On the other hand, there’s a possibility she will never see her mother or home again if she can’t find and bring back Kaguya. 

Fortunately, they found a lead based on the deduction she made in her trial. Two ships matched the criteria: one was an old fisherman crazy enough to try their luck in the thunderstorm. The other showed much more promise -- a modified clipper designed by Volaria for the purpose of running past blockades; not something an ordinary merchant would get their hands on. It departed suddenly without customs approval, and it hasn’t been seen since. 

After investigation, word on the street was that this ship was secretly involved with smuggling between the Shijo Republic, but there’s never been any evidence of it from searches and inspections. However it’s not unheard of for such entities to be hired by states for discreet operations. Its registration history also has missing details, as it seemed to have switched hands over the years before somehow ending up a charter based in Bastanti. 

Bastanti is one of many small island territories of Volaria with a port city, serving as a minor shipping hub along ocean trade lanes. It is a stepping stone to almost anywhere in the world, and thus the most likely place the ship may have fled to. 

It is with this lead that Hayasaka now finds herself swaying high above the endless blue ocean from the crow’s nest, voyaging beyond the Lumen sea. Dozens of tropical cumulus clouds loomed in the distant horizon. The novelty of the sight had already evaporated, dreading the week of sheer boredom and seasickness. 

For once, I wouldn’t mind working as Kaguya’s servant again… 

She’d daydream about flying free over water and mountains, witnessing the world’s abundant beauty; it’s unfortunate that her lifetime adventure is soured by the circumstances granting her freedom -- bound under ruthless obligation from the Imperata to fulfill her task, facing unknown dangers which lie ahead. 

She clicked her tongue with dissatisfaction, then leapt off and flew back down to the deck, landing beside Ryuju at the helm. 

“We’re expected to scour the continent by ourselves? Don’t they care about actually finding their heiress?” 

“If you’re so displeased, why don’t you ask Lord Un’yo yourself?” Ryuju said. “Count yourself lucky that you were even given a second chance.” 

“If I was lucky, I wouldn’t be here. And I imagined the Imperata could spare more than just one ship. Hopefully your squadron of vampires will be enough to search the island.” She grimaced at the name. It’s a cruel twist of fate that she now relied upon the help of the very entity that tried to assassinate her. “Have you ever hunted down a ship before?” 

“Once.” Ryuju said. “To Bastanti, in fact.” 

Hayasaka perked. “Really? I was not made aware of this.” 

She folds her arms and snides. “Yeah, I’ve noticed you lack awareness of many things.” 

Hayasaka pinches her temples. “Look, this is for the sake of the mission and any knowledge we could share beforehand will help. Plus we should at least try to make this trip bearable before we end up strangling each other.” 

Ryuju sighs, then recalls her story. “A merchant was trying to smuggle out exotic contraband, and we were sent to hunt them.” She points far into the distant horizon. “We sailed for most of the way, then flew on the last day once we were within range of the island to chase it down. Managed to intercept and burn their ship before they reached port.” 

Such a long daring flight in the open sea is admittedly an impressive feat. Nothing less to be expected from them. 

“Didn’t have enough endurance to return to ours though, so we had to make landfall and stay the night until our ship picked us up the next day.” 

Hayasaka raised an eyebrow. “Did they see you arrive?” 

She shrugs. “We infiltrated the outskirts and hid on roofs. They had no idea what they saw, just a little spooked by our light when we flew in.” 

“It’s imperative we stay low while we’re there investigating.” Hayasaka emphasized. “We can’t draw attention and cause trouble, we might lose our only chance of finding her or get ourselves into a mess.” 

“You think I don’t know??” the vampire officer snarls, snapping at her unsolicited obvious remark. “You’ve got a lot of nerve, acting like you’re running things here.” 

“Lord Un’yo ordered me to conduct this search, as a matter of fact; it’s under my purview.” 

Ryuju steps up and thumbs her chest. “This is my unit, and you’re still under my watch, as a matter of fact . So do as I say, and don’t get in my way.” Ryuju leers at her, inches from each other’s face in a contest of authority. After a few seconds, Hayaska decides to end the childish charade and turns away. 

“What the hell was Lord Un’yo thinking?” She shakes her head. “He HATES you Hayasakas. I can lead this search myself.” 

Hayasaka rolled her eyes. “Believe me, I would let you have all the honors if I had a choice. Any idea who the perpetrators are?” 

“Other than you, I have my guesses. But we can figure all of that out once we find that ship.” Her eyes narrow. “If your lead turns empty, then I’m going to skin you like I should’ve a week ago for making us come all the way out here for nothing.” 

If it came to that, I’d probably just kill myself and save you the trouble . Hayasaka thought, as morbid thoughts sprouted from her dark mood. “...Say, what was it like setting a ship on fire?” 

A low crackle of distant thunder drew their attention; cumulus clouds from the east were growing ominously large, and headed straight towards them. Activity on the ship intensifies as sailors scurry across the deck, shouting instructions and securing the rigs. 

Bootsteps against the deck come from behind as the navigator approaches them. “Ma’ams, bad news I’m afraid. That storm is blowing us away from Bastanti, so we’re securing the ship to wait it out before we can continue sailing. We don’t know how long it’ll last, but it’s going to be at least another day or two, depending on how far off course we end up.” 

She clicked her tongue. Kaguya’s trail was getting colder every minute, and such a delay would be a severe blow to her chances. 

Ryuju taps her foot. “How far are we from the island?” 

“Just over one hundred kilometers. If not for the storm, we’d be there by nightfall.” 

Hayasaka perked. One hundred? Normally that’d be the edge of my limits. But right now… 

She felt the humid squalls swirling with energy, eager to be released. She glanced at Ryuju, who returned a knowing look. 

“Can you make that hop, daisy?” 

“I’m willing to get off this damn ship just to find out.” She pointedly ignored her nickname. “But yes, that storm will give me plenty of energy to fly with.” The terrible conditions of seafaring left her weary and hungry, but the weather will more than make up for it. 

Ryuju’s wingmate stepped up and voiced her concerns. “Ma’am I don’t doubt our abilities but this is crazy. That storm is going to blow us around and obscure the island; if we can’t find it, we’re done for.” 

“The storm center will take a while to reach this area; we can fly one hundred kilos in under an hour and beat it.” Ryuju calculated. “Until then the visibility’s clear, we’ll spot the island halfway there.” 

She shifted uncomfortably. “Not many of us are able to make that flight. Splitting up complicates things, and we won’t be effective without support and supplies.” 

Hayasaka counters. “It doesn’t matter if we have all the support in the world if Lady Kaguya is gone by the time we get there. Hell, the storm might sink this ship for all we know. At least we still have a chance if we fly now, but that chance is slipping away as we speak. You know as well as I do this is our only option.” She concludes. 

Ryuju tapped the hilt of her sword. “You’ve got a lot of nerve.” 

“But you agree, so can we please hurry this along?” 

With a final huff, Ryuju assembled her other wingmates; she selected only two of her best fliers to accompany, while the rest would stay behind. The linen flight suits covered most of their bodies, dyed dark blue to reduce visibility, and their backpacks were thin and strapped tightly. They geared as lightly as possible for the long flight, forgoing armor and bringing only necessities and personal weapons. 

The trip itself wasn’t complex -- they simply had to follow a compass heading and offset for wind drift. But with no landmarks over deep ocean, it was a gamble. 

After making final preparations, Ryuju turned to Hayasaka. “If you get tired, we’re leaving you for dead.” 

“Tell me something I don’t know.” She shot back. 

With a deep breath they lit their wings, flaring brightly with abundant energy, and launched off the deck. 

The four set off in V-formation and steadily climbed above the sea among the scattered clouds, the ship quickly shrinking away. 

As they progressed, the dark storm clouds drew ever closer with flashes of lightning. Hayasaka was a powerful Lumen, but she was a sprinter, not a cross-country marathoner; she could never practice building endurance with her daily royal duties. Thus she began to tire sooner unlike Ryuju who showed no signs of strain after thirty minutes of flying.  

But then… 

“There!” Ryuju shouted through the buffeting wind, pointing ahead. 

The visibility was excellent, and they spotted the green island in the distance. After days of monotony, the sight of the goal before her instilled her with renewed vigor. 

After twenty more minutes, they were orbiting the island from above. Hayasaka made out the layout and details between gaps in the clouds -- dense harbor packed the coastline with dozens of ships, all surrounding a large central downtown. Slums made up the outskirts, as small roads led throughout the rest of the small green island, and a brick wall fort sat atop an elevated coast. 

She led the formation high above towards the outskirts, and pointed at a small open hill near a road; their landing spot. They slowed down and relaxed their wings. Their light disappeared and they plummeted. Hayasaka felt relief as the chilling wind rejuvenated her hot and weary muscles, but her reprieve would only last mere seconds. They fell through wisps of cloud as the ground rapidly approached. 

At the last moment, they flared her wings and slowed to a halt as they touched down, their sudden drafts rustling the tall grass. She collapsed onto her back as a wave of exhaustion hit her, compounded by fatigue journeying across rough seas. 

“Are you passing out or what?” Ryuju said with short breath, though faring better than the rest of them. 

Hayasaka waves a hand. “I’m fine...just catching my breath.” 

For several minutes they rested as Ryuju kept watch. The wind picked up; the sky darkened further since they arrived, and rain would befall them soon. Time was of the essence, so they got on their feet and trekked along the foliage into the seaside town.  

As they neared civilization the dirt road transitioned to stone. The buildings were a mix of worn and old alongside newer and larger, gentrified from increased shipping activity. Most were housing and inns for stopover visitors. Gazing inland towards the hills, she could see the white walls of the fort she saw overhead overlooking the town.  

Nearing the town center, all sorts of people with different faces and accents wandered the streets with a variety of colorful fashion and attire the likes of which she’d never seen. The bazaar had loud groups of traders selling exotic wares imported from faraway lands. Other native shops sold local produce for hungry crew. It filled the air with foreign exotic aromas. Down the street led to the port itself with rows of warehouses and shipyards. 

“So? What’s the plan?” 

“We’ll split up. You two search for the suspect ship along the water. Hayasaka you’ll join me to inquire in the town. Meet back here in two hours.” There was hardly much to distinguish the suspect’s ship from all the others, that is if it was even docked here, so they would have to do some investigation. 

As the squadmates went down to the docks to search, she accompanied Ryuju into the town square. The buildings along the street had shops and taverns infested with drunken sailors wearing baggy clothes, and merchants in finer attire conversing. Some wearing loose red military coats with batons at their waists were huddled around tables gambling cards and dice. 

All of them were men, with the only few women being locals doing work. This discrepancy was made apparent as the girls attracted frequent glances while walking along. Their sleek dark suits and slender figures stuck out among the ragged seamen and natives. She cringed at herself for this oversight after making a point to not stick out, but if anyone was tempted to try anything their holstered blades served to deter. Ryuju did not seem perturbed by this, and continued leading with stride. 

“Ryuju, let’s stop here for a bit. We need clothes to cover from the rain, and some actual food.” They needed replenishment badly, and she was sick of seafood. “There’s shops right over there.” 

Ryuju hums. “Get some cloaks or something. I’ll get skewers across the street.” They part, and she sifts through the bazaar towards a quaint shop on the side.  

She enters the small room with colorful assortments of different textiles and dresses on racks, which a young boy was helping clean and organize. The other half of the room hosted a seamstress workshop filled with tools and yarn. An old lady sat before a large spinning wheel that clacked as it spun. She had tanned wrinkled skin with white hair, and silently weaved endless threads into shape. 

Hayasaka turns her attention to the garments, and initially reaches for plain dull ones to blend in, but then pauses to glance at the other selections, picturing how they would look. She settled on slightly more appealing colors while remaining unassuming: a small white button shirt with a tan drape, and a dark gray cloak for Ryuju. 

She went to the boy, extending to him the clothes and copper coins between her fingers. “How much?” 

The boy took one of the coins to examine, then counted on his fingers before lifting up the total. She handed him the amount, and he scampered away, leaving her alone with the statue-like seamstress and rhythmic clicking of the spinning wheel. 

She turned to leave. 

“You, girl with wings.” 

Her heart leapt to her throat as the sudden voice, although quiet, felt like a drum, and she spun to face her. She did not feel threatened, yet uneasiness flooded her veins. 

The seamstress did not look or move from her position, and there was silence as Hayasaka waited for her to speak, as if listening for a shadow. Seconds crawled by, as the wheel continued to spin. 

“Your kind has not come to this place in a very long time.” 

Hayasaka swallowed. “You know about us?” 

" Lunina . Daughter of the fallen moon princessa, blessed with her spirit. Long ago they would come to this island from the south, across the Derecho . They left when the Red Armadas came to conquer, but now are returning. History repeats.” 

“Others have come by?” 

“ Si, you are not the only one; a few days ago, in fact.” 

A few days ago?! Despite the whirlwind of thoughts, she remembered her objective. “Who were they? What did they look like??” She urged. 

“Hmm…who am I to say?”, she riddles the helpless outlander. A flash of frustration, but Hayasaka forces herself to swallow her pride, and pleads. 

“Please, I’m looking for my master. They’re very important and I must find her. I can’t return home if I don’t.” 

The spinning wheel slows to a halt, and the hypnotic clacking disappears. She reaches over for a small garment beside her, and turns in her seat to face her. Despite her ancient look, her eyes retained a deep cognizance. 

She presents the garment to Hayasaka, who steps forward to examine it. It was a scarflike article of clothing made of silky smooth material, colored a deep velvet red with black lines along the ends. 

It took her a second to realize the resemblance, and then she understood what the seamstress was trying to convey. It seems she was correct, as the woman smiled warmly at her reaction, and tenderly handed it over. 

Kaguya was here. 

“Her pink haired friend bought this for her. This one is another one I made. Take it.” 

Her eyes began to well, and she let out a shaky breath. She hadn’t felt relief and hope in a very long time. 

“Thank you...” She nods graciously. The emotional wave subsides, and she remembers something else. 

“Was there anyone with my master? She is in danger, and may have been taken.” 

She chuckles heartily, perplexing her. “All of you are mice who think they are cats. They are not who you think.” 

“What does that mean? You saw them too??” 

“I have nothing more to tell. If you seek her, then you better hurry off.” She returns to her sowing. “May the moon guide you.” 

She stands indecisively still for a few seconds, waiting to see if more answers will be revealed. After no luck, she sighs and leaves with clothes in hand, struggling to process her thoughts. As soon as she steps out she sees Ryuju across the street at the food stall, munching on skewers. Hayasaka weaves her way over between ox carts and pedestrians. 

“About damn time, I ate yours.” She spits out a bone. “What took you so long?” 

She relays what she’s learned. “Kaguya and Chika were here a few days ago; the seamstress saw them, and she knows we’re Lumiens.” Her eyes widened at the news. 

“Where did they go? Who were they with?” 

“Don’t know. But we can find ship record logs at city hall, and track them that way.” 

It was beginning to drizzle, so they don their respective cloaks, and quickly head deeper into the city with this new information. Hayasaka tries desperately to piece together the puzzle. 

“If Lady Kaguya and Chika were captured, they wouldn’t be roaming around shopping. It doesn’t make any sense. Could there be someone else helping her?” 

“Not my concern. All I care about is bringing her back, and I won’t let anything stop me.” Ryuju paused. “How did the seamstress know you’re a lumen anyways?” 

“Lumens came here a long time ago, when we fought against Volaria’s fleet invasion.” 

“Wasn’t that centuries ago?” 

“I guess we look the part; not like anyone else here looks like us.” 

They marched towards a brick building with a small bell tower, which was the city hall. They opened the door and entered. The room had a reception counter and large shelves stacked with books and files, while a guard at the back of the room was slumped in a chair, snoring loudly. 

The two girls walked to the counter, where a clerk with glasses wrote ferociously in balance sheets. 

“Business?” He spoke deadpanned without looking up. His dialect had an accent disparate from Oriental speech in the Imperata, but was understandable. 

Ryuju pulled out the documents of their suspect vessel. “We have a warrant for this ship; we need to know if it arrived here a few days ago.” 

He stops writing and looks up, surprised that he was speaking to two strange foreign girls instead of burly men. Then he resumes his work. 

“We don’t deal with external affairs. If it’s an issue of piracy then report it to the Royal Naval Office.” 

Ryuju places two silver coins in front of him. “It’ll be quick.” 

A pause. He taps the table with his knuckles twice. Ryuju huffs as she flicks two more pieces to him, enough to finally persuade him to lower his pen, and he skims through the documents. 

He opened a heavy book and flipped back a few pages, fingering through the rows. It only took a minute before he handed the documents back. “This ship docked four days ago, then left the same evening.” 

Hayasaka’s chest flittered; her hunch about this ship was right, however they arrived too late. “Where is it going?” 

He clears his throat and knocks the table again. Ryuju fishes out another silver. 

“They filed a route for Volaria in their manifest.” 

Volaria?! Her heart sank at the prospect of chasing all the way across the world. 

“Are there any ships here headed there?” 

He snorted. “What, your ship left you behind?” 

“Technically, we left it behind.” 

“Plenty of ships go to Volaria. You’ll always find crew getting drunk in the city, go ask them. But good luck; no good captain brings women aboard his ship.” He sneered. “They always bring misfortune. But if you’re desperate,” His eyes peer at the two of them with a dirty look on his face, giving Hayasaka the urge to vomit. “I’m sure some may be willing to take you nice girls, in exchange for… services .”  

Ryuju narrows her eyes and taps the hilt of her sword. He glances down towards the sound of metal, and his expression sours as he is made aware of their dangers. 

She turns to leave, but Hayasaka stays a moment for one last exchange, channeling her dark mood. “Indeed, we are quite experienced in serving misfortune .”  

He mutters something unpleasant in his native tongue. “If you have no other business then leave, you’ve wasted enough of my time with this nonsense.” 

Together they exit the building, leaving behind the sound of scratching pens and the snoring guard. They had gotten everything they could, but the answers left them with more questions. 

“ Serving misfortune …” Ryuju recites Hayasaka’s parting words. “That’s cool, I’m stealing it.” 

Hayasaka shrugs. “Be my guest.” Actually, that’s the first time she’s ever liked anything from me . “Lady Kaguya recently met with a Volarian representative in a series of diplomatic exchanges.” She recalls the event shortly after she had been hospitalized in the training incident, and thus wasn’t able to attend. “What could they possibly be trying to accomplish by taking Lady Kaguya and Chika there??” 

Is Volaria seeking retribution by taking Kaguya? Or is she fleeing for refuge from someone else? Hayasaka’s brain couldn’t help but try to connect the dots. “It could just be a coincidence, but it’s too well-timed to be dismissed.” 

“You can ask them yourself what the hell’s going on when we get there. Right now we need to find a ride; we can’t waste time waiting for our ship to arrive.” 

“And how do you intend to do that? Just ask around the tavern?” 

“Do you have any better ideas?”  

Hayasaka frowned, unable to come up with a solution. She didn’t want to interact with more men, but it seemed they had no choice. They went back to the town square where the taverns and shops were. Hayasaka settled on the cleanest one named Lago Da Lua , which appeared to be a respectable inn, and Ryuju followed suit. 

They entered through the open door, and scanned the room. It was a dimly lit dining area with wooden interior, where handfuls of patrons chatted loudly about. A bar with an open kitchen behind it was located on the far end. On the opposite side was a hallway with signs for the latrines, and a staircase for the upstairs rooms. 

“Grab a seat to listen in on others. I’m going to relieve myself first.” 

Hayasaka made her way to the hall whilst Ryuju went towards the bar. She reached the door to the latrine, but it was occupied so she waited. Her mind was befuddled with what they had learned today, and the questions that came with them. 

Who is after Kaguya? Why did they come here, then go to Volaria? How is Volaria connected with this? Are we even chasing the right ship? What if they got on another ship? 

She shook her head and thought back to the seamstress, remembering what she said: 

All of you are mice who think they are cats. They are not who you think. 

Who was ‘they’? Were ‘they’ helping her? Help her do what, and why? 

She closed her eyes and sighed. Ryuju was right -- there was no point wasting energy on mysteries they couldn’t answer now. 

The sound of the latrine being unlocked brought Hayasaka back, as the occupant swung the door open and strolled out with soft footsteps. To her surprise, it was a light skinned girl who was almost her height, dressed in a blue cloak. Her short brown hair was tied in pigtails, and she had deep purple irises.  

She stopped in her tracks in front of Hayasaka, apparently just as surprised as they both stared at each other, neither able to find any words. Something about the girl seemed oddly familiar, and she internally scrambled to figure out exactly what. The girl’s face morphed into shock, and it suddenly occurred to her. 

“You…you’re-” Hayasaka stammered. 

“Ai Hayasaka…?” She exclaims breathlessly. “How are you here??” 

“I could ask you the same, Maki Shijo. ” 

Chapter 13: Standoff

“I could ask you the same, Maki Shijo. ”

Standing in the wooden hallway, the fog in her head dispelled instantly upon uttering her name. Her fatigue evaporated, replaced with anxious heat coursing through her veins. 

She notices Maki’s eyes have begun to glow faintly, who glanced down at the weapon on her waist. The weighty presence of her holstered sword became apparent, as well as the fact that Maki was trapped in a dead end with her standing between her only escape. 

The activity and chatter of the inn continued in the background, blissfully unaware of their transpiring showdown.

Dozens of questions flooded her mind. She settled on the first one.

“Why are you here?”

“The same reason as you I presume, given I’m still alive.” She spoke cautiously.

Hayasaka leered. “If you already know as much, then you must know what happened to her.”

Maki carefully weighed her response.  “I do, but this isn’t what you think.” 

“Where did you take her?” She shifted her weight forward. Her voice became low and dangerous.

Maki lifted a hand to quell her rising temper. “If you come with me, I can bring you to her.”

“And I’m supposed to simply trust your word?”

“As much as I trust that you didn’t come here to kill me, because I’d already be dead if it were the case.” She quickly countered. “It also tells me you don’t actually know who’s responsible for the attack, and the fact you’ve come all this way means you are not among those who conspired against her. You truly intend to seek Kaguya’s safety, and only I can help.”

Hayasaka was slightly taken aback by Maki’s deductions, but she wasn’t fully convinced.

“Kaguya’s safety isn’t mutually exclusive with yours, and unfortunately the Imperata wants you dead more than alive.” 

Maki did not break composure from her threats. She instead narrowed her eyes with a resolution Hayasaka did not expect from her in such a moment. “You believe us to be enemies; I’m here to tell you we’re not. There are greater forces at play beyond the scope of our respective nations, and we’ll need each other’s help if we all wish to survive. I only wonder where your loyalty will remain when the time comes.”

Hayasaka blinked, confused. My loyalty? What is she talking about?

Maki looked past her with wide eyes and raised her hand.

A sound came from behind -- a sword being drawn.

Hayasaka spun around and saw Ryuju charging, then realized her blunder when a sharp blow struck the back of her head, filling her vision with stars as she lost balance. She then was pulled back and held from behind as a cold metal weapon was pressed against her head.

It was a revolver pistol. She was a hostage against Ryuju who sprinted towards them with sword in hand.

“STOP!” Maki shouted. Ryuju continued her charge and pointed her sword forward, intending to skewer the both of them.

Realizing this, Maki pointed her pistol towards Ryuju. Seizing this opportunity, Hayasaka snapped her head backwards and struck Maki’s nose in a backwards headbutt. Maki recoiled and fired a stray shot. The blast rang in their ears, and the bullet missed Ryuju.

Before Hayasaka could do anything else, Maki shoved her forwards to make her an obstacle in Ryuju’s path. As she stumbled onto the ground, Ryuju leapt onto the wall with a lumen’s aurora wings to avoid her and ran along it, catching Maki by surprise as she retook aim. Ryuju reacted quickly and flung the sword at Maki to throw off her aim, who ducked and fell to the ground to dodge the whirling blade.

Ryuju closed the remaining distance and tackled Maki, yelling as they collided. Another gunshot rang their ears as a round discharged into the ceiling, and they tumbled violently to the ground.

Hayasaka got back up and witnessed Ryuju wrestling atop Maki on the floor. Ryuju had one hand pinning down Maki's gun by her wrist, while gripping a dagger with the other. Maki’s own free hand fought desperately to keep the dagger from bearing down upon her, as they writhed and lashed about in painful grunts.

NO!

Hayasaka rushed forward to stop them before it was too late. She plowed into Ryuju, knocking her off of Maki and kicking the gun away. All three of them then quickly rolled off the ground into kneeled positions. She reached to draw her sword, when she froze at what she saw.

Maki had pulled another gun, now pointed at Ryuju -- a small derringer, loaded with only one shot as a last resort.

Ryuju snarled at Hayasaka’s insubordination. “What’s the meaning of this, Hayaska?!”

“She knows about Kaguya, we need her alive!”

Maki had some bruises and cuts on her arms and face. She spoke between heavy breaths. “I don’t want to fight. I’m not your enemy.”

Though Maki tried to remain calm, Hayasaka could see she was shaken by the clash as the pistol faintly trembled in her grip. But there was also a deeply steeled determination in her eyes.

Ryuju spat. “Like hell; we’ve been at war trying to kill each other our entire lives.”

“Both of you would be dead if I decided to pull the trigger earlier. But that is not my intent.”

Hayasaka glared. “Then what is your intent, Shijo?”

“The same as yours, to find Kaguya! We can help each other, but only if you’re willing to listen!”

Ryuju’s grip tightened on her dagger. The fury in her eyes morphed into a cold, deadly focus as she stared down the barrel of the gun with only a single shot. She inhaled.

“ Don’t test me .” Maki warned.

Just then, they heard a hoard of bootsteps and shouting in the establishment. A group of Volarian redcoat soldiers stormed into the building with rifles in hand, and quickly assumed a firing formation at the end of the hall.

“Transgressors, you are under arrest by authority of the Volarian Crown!! Drop your weapons, or you will be shot!!”

 

---

 

Hayasaka and Ryuju sat silently in two separate jail cells, bruised and handcuffed. The guards had taken Maki elsewhere, separate from them.

The sound of light pattering rain filled the humid air, and a leak from the ceiling hitting the stone floor echoed across the dark room, rhythm and constant.

Neither had spoken a word since the fight at the inn. Hayasaka knew what feelings Ryuju harbored, and explaining her actions and reasons would be useless. Her actions were treasonous, and Ryuju would kill her the moment she had a chance.

Mixed feelings stormed within Hayasaka, but the one that burned the strongest was frustration. Too much happened in such a short time -- she gained so many more questions than answers, but her conflicting thoughts and feelings left her indecisive in a moment of opportunity. Now that chance slipped away, and left them jailed on a godforsaken island by a foreign military.

There are greater forces at play beyond the scope of our respective nations, and we’ll need each other’s help if we all wish to survive. I only wonder where your loyalty will remain when the time comes.

Maki’s words swirled in her thoughts as she desperately attempted to decipher them. What external forces? Is Volaria involved in this? Is that why that ship is taking Kaguya there? Is this why Maki had come here? 

And what the hell was she trying to imply about her loyalty? Did Maki think she harbored ill intent towards Kaguya for her subjugation under the Shinomiyas?

These questions ran endlessly in circles, and she could not make heads nor tails.

But regardless, they were stuck. Their ship may or may not have made it to port before the storm, and they had no way of making contact with their remaining team. They could only hope that they would somehow hear about what occurred at the inn, and deduce that they had been taken here.

Suddenly the door opened, and armed guards stepped in, followed by Maki. She was uncuffed, and her wounds were cleaned and bandaged.

Maki looked at the two of them, then spoke to Hayasaka. “I’m sorry for attacking you. I didn’t know whether to trust you or not at the time. But the fact that we didn’t kill each other when we had the chance convinces me your intent is to help find Kaguya. Well, save for you.” Maki deadpans at Ryuju, before turning back towards Hayasaka.

“But I understand why you acted the way you did. So first I’ll clear up some misunderstandings as to why I’m here.” She begins.

“Your princess is safe. She is currently on a chartered clipper sailing to Volaria, along with Chika Fujiwara...”

This they already knew. Anyone who did the same research as them could come up with that information. It was not convincing.

“...I know this because that ship covertly operates on my behalf and reports directly to me.”

The look of shock on her face must have been apparent, as the corner of Maki’s mouth grew a small smug grin.

“But the ship was only sent to gather information on the Imperata’s general state of affairs -- we were unaware of the conspiring attack. What actually transpired, or how Kaguya managed to get aboard, I have no idea. But she is on that ship.”

The timing is too good to be true. Maki has to be involved somehow in the attack.

“As soon as I was notified of what happened, I quickly sailed all the way here to follow, just like you did.“

Ryuju, having been silent until now, curtly responded. “You admit you kidnapped her.”

“Firstly, Kaguya chose to flee aboard the ship on her own volition. Second, if I actually did orchestrate an entire attack to kidnap her, why would I take her all the way to Volaria instead of to my possession?” Maki folds her arms. “And contrary to your belief, I actually don’t want conflict between our two nations; it’s the reason why I’m ensuring Kaguya’s safety, to prevent exactly that from happening.”

Hayasaka frowned. “Then why IS your ship taking her to Volaria?”

“Could you even begin to imagine the bloodshed if everyone discovered the Imperata Heiress was held captive in the Shijo Republic?? You of all people would know that, Hayasaka.” Maki remarked to her irritation. “That is the last thing we want. I happen to have friends in Volaria who can protect her; she will be safe there.”

Friends in Volaria? That must be how she has the guards in her pocket. 

“So do you know who’s behind the attack?” She asked.

Maki shook her head. “I’m not sure, since I don’t know the details of what transpired. I thought it might’ve been a usurpation; it’s why I was wary of you at first.” She scanned the room. “Speaking of which, I thought there would be more of you. Where are they?”

Ryuju replied in a thinly veiled tone. “I’m waiting for them to come break us out and finish what we started.”

Maki immediately called her bluff. “Attacking Volarian forces would be a declaration of war. I’d advise against it.”

Ryuju simply shrugged, and responded. “They’re out at sea.”

“They left you behind??”

“Other way around.” Hayasaka corrected for the second time that day. “We flew here.”

“Across the sea?! You know a storm is coming, right??” Maki exclaimed and pointed at the window.

“The storm was going to delay our arrival by days. We had no other choice.”

Maki rested her chin on her knuckles. “So you came all the way out here alone, huh? Well, what do you plan to do then?”

Hayasaka and Ryuju looked at her quizzically, as if they even had any option to choose. “What? Aren’t you taking us captive or something?”

She sighed. “I know it sounds strange to you, but I mean it when I say I’m not your enemy. I truly intend to find Kaguya and figure out what’s going on. So I have a proposition…” She pointed her thumb at herself.

“Come with me to Volaria.”

Ryuju jeerfully laughed. “You really expect me to trust a Shijo, let alone work with one?”

Hayasaka chimed. “We’re going to be stranded here otherwise if we don’t go with her, and she’s already proven to not be a threat to us. We might as well tag along to keep her in check. Or do you just want to let her find Kaguya first without us?”

Maki continued. “It’s my hope that with your company, we may get to the bottom of this conspiracy while preventing any misunderstandings between our respective nations. Also even if you reach Volaria yourselves, you’ll have no clue as to navigate or understand how anything works. I’m already well acquainted, and know where the ship is bringing Kaguya to. You’ll have no success without my help. Or you can just rot in here, if you so desire.”

Ryuju audibly tapped her foot for several seconds, making up her mind as everyone watched. 

“There’s a difference between not killing each other and helping you. Don’t be mistaken.” She growled.

Notes:

It's been a year and a half since the last update. It has been the greatest year of change, growth, and discovery in my life...but through it all, I never stopped thinking about Sora Memoria.
If you're still reading this, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I'll hopefully see you again soon!

Chapter 14: Primavera

Summary:

Two aristocratic girls enjoy their break before the start of a new spring semester, which promises to be an eventful one.

A girl stood in the wide open grass field of her estate, beneath an azure sunny sky. She had irises with a soft magenta hue, and short black hair parted by a rhinestone-embedded hair clip. She wore a fashionable white blouse and red dress skirt, with a small-brimmed straw hat, and brown boots for the outdoors. She exuded the persona of a polite, refined young noble, who enjoyed fine arts while indulging in sweets in her pastime. 

A loud crack echoed across the hills, frightening nearby flocks of birds as they scattered from the noise. A lone upright clay disc stood upon a table, untouched amidst a sea of other clay fragments.

She sighed, lowering the rifle from her shoulder, and pulled back the bolt. A smoking brass casing ejected onto the ground. She shoved the bolt forward to chamber another bullet -- the refined metals clinked together satisfyingly as they locked perfectly into place.

She drew a breath of fresh air through her nose, then raised her weapon once more. As the narrow gunsight settled on the target, she smoothly exhaled, and gently squeezed the trigger.

The thunderous shot hammered her shoulder. In the distance, the disc exploded into a shower of fragments. A grin of satisfaction grew on her face as she cycled the bolt. 

She heard a muffled voice call from behind. She removed her earplugs and turned to see her butler.

“Lady Kashiwagi, your guest has arrived.”

Further behind him, she saw an entourage of servants accompanying a familiar beautiful figure in a white dress approaching them. She handed him the weighty firearm, then turned to greet her friend who was already running up to meet her.

The friend jumped into a hug before she could open her mouth.

“Nagisa, it’s been forever! I missed you sooo much!”

She chuckled. “I missed you too Tsubame, but it’s only been two months since we last met!”

Tsubame grabbed her by the shoulders with a look of exaggerated shock. “Two months apart is a very long time, how could you say that?! We’ve both been so busy, I was looking forward to seeing you all week!”

She wore a pristine white summer sundress that flowed with her movements, and a large straw hat adorned by an adorable sunflower; its vibrant yellow petals perfectly matched both her hair and eyes, as well as her beaming personality. If Nagisa could describe her, Tsubame wielded a level of beauty and charm equivalent to what she herself had in power. 

A sweet fragrance arose from Tsubame. Nagisa on the other hand…

Tsubame whiffed. “...You reek of gunpowder.”

“Sorry. I was testing the new rifle and smokeless ammunition commissioned by the Royal Armament. We just received the first batch this morning, I couldn’t wait to try it for myself.”

“Prototypes? Is that safe?”

“It’s already gone through extensive testing and trials; its quality is beyond a doubt.”

Tsubame frowned, turning her chin up. “Hmph. Are you so fond of your toys that you’d rather play with them instead of your best friend?”

She then felt her hand being taken, and looked down to see Nagisa bow down to kiss it softly, catching her by surprise.

“Forgive me, dear.” Nagisa spoke in dramatic fashion. “I would never dream of upsetting my lady.”

She snatched back her hand, giggling. “You rascal! I am not such an easy woman!”

“Then will tea and dessert please you?”

“Only if you don’t keep me waiting any longer. Now, hurry up, the day is short!”

 

---

 

The two girls shared a marble table on the balcony of the mansion, overlooking the seaside city of Victoria Bay. Sunlight from the warm autumn sun glistened off the city’s brilliant red and golden architecture, while massive merchant fleets gathered at the sprawling harbor, with more sailing to and from the oceanic horizon. It is Volaria’s largest port, considered to be its heart where influence and riches flow all over the world.

Further down the coast lay the industrial sector abound with shipyards, drydocks, and factories. It was located downwind from the city so prevailing winds may carry its fumes away from the populace. It is this industrial beast which manufactures the muscle of Volaria’s strength and might.

Most of the mansions sat on the lower hills facing downtown, avoiding the sight of the utilitarian factories spewing oil and black soot. On the contrary, the Kashiwagis built their estate atop the tallest vantage point with the industrial sector in plain view -- for those shipyards and factories belonged to none other than Kashiwagi Heavy Industries.

It is this view where the family estate overlooked their proud domain, and where Nagisa Kashiwagi enjoys her daily morning tea.

Tsubame heaved a blissful sigh, stretching her arms. “This is wonderful…it’s been a long time since we’ve been able to relax together like this; we’ve been so preoccupied with work.”

“I know, I almost wish we didn’t have to go back to school.”

The taste of dread filled their mouths as they lamented the end of their break nearing far too quickly.

Nagisa perked up. “That reminds me, the airplane designer Mikado mentioned will be enrolling this semester; that’s going to be interesting.”

“Oh, his application got accepted, did it??” Tsubame remarked. “I’m surprised he managed to find and recruit someone like that. I mean, who else our age is building their own flying machines and competing in races with them? It’s unbelievable!”

“It is, but I have my reservations.” Nagisa warned. “Speaking from experience, matters this complicated are never straightforward. Mikado’s plans are ambitious, and I have doubts whether this person has what it takes to meet those expectations. As remarkable as his achievements are so far, he’s still young and therefore inexperienced and untested; he has no reputation upholding him.”

Tsubame drew another sip of tea, before responding with a voice of optimism. “But aren’t we the same, Nagisa? I understand what you’re saying, but I think it’s also a testament to his own ambition and resourcefulness. We’ve been blessed with what we have while he had to fight to rise from the ground up; literally! That counts for something, and it’s certainly what Mikado is betting on.”

“I don’t disagree, but we’ve all worked hard to get to where we are, and I’ve seen for myself the levels of investments it takes to pursue projects of this scale. I’m just afraid Mikado’s taking too great a risk putting too much hope in this…especially with everything else he has to deal with.” Nagisa’s sentence trailed off; the implications of the words unspoken between them were enough.

“Then we’ll be there to lend them our support.” Tsubame resolved. “I heard Maki won’t be attending the upcoming semester.”

Nagisa idly stirred her teacup. “Unfortunately not. She has her hands full back at home.” She gazed forlornly beyond the sea’s horizon. “I hope she’s safe.”

Tsubame gave a bittersweet smile to comfort her friend’s aching, sharing a moment of sympathy between them. A cool gentle breeze picked up, lightly fluttering their hair and dresses. They enjoyed the sensation for a minute. 

Tsubame finished another sip of her tea, then prodded Nagisa. “You went on that diplomatic trip and met the Imperata Heiress last season. Has anything come of it?”

Nagisa shook her head. “No, there hasn’t been any developments. But hopefully that also means things remain stable for the time being.”

“Princess Kaguya Shinomiya…” She muttered the name, as if trying to gleam answers from the syllables. “What kind of person is she like?”

Nagisa inclined her head in deep thought, recalling the moments she had together with the enigmatic princess: 

The way she quietly carried her pride. How her thoughts hid behind her smile, unable to see past her veil when she could see through hers in return. How quickly that smile could change into a bone-chilling stare.

The warmth of the tropical sun on her skin vanished, and was replaced with a sensation that sent shivers down her spine.

Ice cold. 

She remembered the knife she was shown, and thought it to be a suitable representation.

“When I met her, she showed me her personal dagger -- it was one the most beautiful pieces of ornate bladecraft I’ve ever laid my hands on.” She raised her hands as she went into detail. “It was small, but the engravings on it were incredibly fine and delicate. The blade face shone brilliantly like a mirror of pure platinum. Yet it was remarkably light!”

Nagisa gestured. “I’ve never felt metal like that before. That blade is no ordinary material, it’s too light to be steel. I actually don’t know what kind of alloy it could be! I imagine if we could build a ship made entirely of-”

“Nagisa! Nagisa, come back!” Tsubame interrupted her friend’s tangent.

She cleared her throat, embarrassed. “Ahem, I digress. What I mean is, Princess Kaguya is like that dagger. She appears unassuming at first glance when holstered in its sheath. But once you get closer, the blade beneath is revealed -- a beautiful, sharp, and dangerous rose, with much hidden beneath her petals and thorns. One can’t help but feel terrified yet enamored when engaging with her.”

Nagisa sighed with finality, as Tsubame drew a breath to process.

“Wow,” she exhaled. “She must really be a powerful and intimidating person if she made YOU feel that way. I can’t imagine meeting someone like that my age. I wonder what kind of nation the Imperata is to have someone like her as a princess.”

Another thought occurred to Tsubame. “Kaguya Shinomiya and Maki Shijo, two respective heiresses of their nations…do you think they would get along?”

The surprising question intrigued Nagisa, and she took a moment to think.

“I’ve only met Lady Shinomiya once. But from what I've been able to gather, I can tell they’re similar in many ways. The way they sense and perceive are frighteningly alike. They’re also both in similar positions, as respective heiresses to rivaling nations. Yet…”

She paused to reflect on her thoughts. Tsubame waited patiently.

“...Yet it’s because they’re so similar, I can’t imagine them ever getting along. They’re too steadfast in their convictions and duties to yield to the other in the slightest.  Perhaps in a different, more peaceful world, they could have become friends.”

“But reality is not so kind, is it?” Tsubame nodded, finishing the solemn thought. “This conflict between the Imperata and the Shijos…I only wish there could be some resolution.”

Nagisa rose from her seat and strode up to the balcony’s edge, looking at the ocean before them. “It’s my hope that Volaria’s involvement, although with self-fulfilling interests at heart, will act as a mediator between them to prevent escalation. Though, I doubt they will share the same sentiment.”

Tsubame shifted in her seat. “I still don’t really understand Mikado’s plans, and how making airplanes is supposed to help.” She gazed at the sky. “Maybe I just don’t see the full picture, or grasp the significance of this new potential of aviation.”

“Well, their country is ruled by Lumens. Perhaps he intends to rise to their level, so to speak.” Nagisa deduces.

“I hear they gained their power to fly when the moon shattered and fell to the ocean, as far as legend goes. You didn’t see any Lumens flying while you were there?”

Nagisa shook her head. “I didn’t see anyone fly, or possess wings of any kind. If they really were lumens in plain sight, I couldn’t tell them apart from normal people.”

“I wonder why they’re so secretive about themselves; not even Maki has revealed if she can fly or not.”

Nagisa turned from the balcony and paced toward her friend. “Though it is said their beauty is enchanting; if so, then there is no doubt the Imperata Heiress certainly is…” She straightens her posture and lowers in a gentlemen’s bow with a sly smile. “...as well as you, milady.”

“Oh stop it!” They laughed heartily. Tsubame then walked up to join Nagisa at the balcony, and leaned forward on the railing. “I do wonder what it’d be like to fly as a Lumen, to have such freedom.”

“Your uncle already taught you how to drive, surely you can learn to fly an airplane?” Nagisa asked.

“Haha! You really think so??”

A series of loud knocks interrupted their brewing discussion. A girl servant rushed through the door towards them with an urgent look.

 

---

 

The girls sprinted downstairs, the sound of their pattering footsteps echoing across the marble floor. They emerged into the spacious central hall, their chests rising and falling with trepid breaths. In the room before them were two peculiar uniformed men, standing tall at attention.

They wore signature sailor’s dress uniforms: navy-blue coats and white dress pants, adorned with gold brass buttons, neckerchiefs, and swords by their waists. One wore thick glasses, whose body had a chubby heft with a round belly held tightly by behind a belt.

The other was an older gentleman, taller and lean despite his age. His hair and short beard were gray, and his hardened skin wrinkled and tan from many harsh years under the sun. He looked at the two girls with keen eyes, his irises glimmering deep golden-brown like an autumn oak tree.

Tsubame’s eyes grew the size of dinner plates, and squealed. “UNCLE!!!” He braced with his arms held open as his niece charged and tackled him with a hug at full force.

He staggered from her embrace. “My darling! I hope you don’t mind, I’m afraid I still smell like sardines left to dry a week too long.”

She giggled. “I love it because it’s the first thing I smell when you return, Uncle Julius!”

He let out a throaty laugh and returned the hug. “Your sentiment fills this old man’s heart with joy.”

Nagisa chuckled at the display of reunion, and approached them. Julius turned to Nagisa and bowed in respect, along with his first mate.  “My lady, it too brings me immense joy to see you in good health. You are growing ever more beautiful.”

She returned a smiling nod. “I am flattered. It’s wonderful to see you again, Captain Julius.” Nagisa acted mostly in jest to humor the honorable Captain; despite the formality, they have long known each other since childhood as he worked closely with her own father. However he remained principled and mannered in respect to the status of the families he served. Plus, a bearhug wasn’t really her style anyways.

In the midst of their reunion, Nagisa inquired. “I hadn’t expected you to return so soon. You were scheduled to return next month in autumn. What happened?”

Tsubame frowned. “Whatever it is can be discussed after a meal and some rest. You must be exhausted!”

“You are too kind my darling,” He puts his hand over his chest in thanks, then his face turns serious. “But I’m afraid this indeed is a pressing matter which presently demands our attention.”

Their discussion is interrupted by the sound of the large double doors opening, and they all turn to see the self-invited visitor who decided to make their appearance.

Nagisa’s blood ran cold, and her heart froze at the sight.

She was a girl exactly her age, wearing a black skirt dress. Her hair was long and silk black, skin of flawless complexion, and an immovable regal composure. Her footfalls against the stone floor reverberated through the hall like a grand piano, each note ringing suspensefully with intent among the captivated audience.

The air grew colder as she approached, then she halted before them. She glanced between each person, then looked at Nagisa. Their eyes met; time stopped as Nagisa stared into her unmistakable ruby red irises.

“Lady Kashiwagi.” Her voice shattered the silence. “It is good to see you again.”

Notes:

Last year, I became an Air Traffic Controller!
This year, I bought an airplane!

I still struggle with worries, stresses and doubts about whether I can handle what's on my plate.
My dear friend HitheroNihil is also going through his own trials and tribulations. His tenacity never fails to astound me, and we continue to support and rely on each other.

But one thing that has stayed the same is my love for this story, and will continue to write and bring it to life. I continue to meet amazing people who guide and support me, and I hope the cast of Kaguya: Love is War will continue to inspire all of us to do the same for each other.

Flying is not something we do alone -- it is something that takes a communal effort, and a joyful experience to share with others.

Stay tuned for the next chapter...whenever it may come, sorry it takes so long haha

P.S: Special thank you to those of you who left such heartwarming comments, your words honestly move me to tears and give me the strength and focus to write!
I'm so glad you enjoy, thank you!!!