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Harry Potter & the Shipgirls

[Summer Harvest Trip] Kensho the Berry thief; Elm the retainer
Harry Leferts

Wiping at her forehead, Yae gave a soft sigh before she lifted the pail filled with sweet, red raspberries. It only took her a few moments to haul it over to the cart and dump them into one of the baskets that was there. Humming a bit, the teenage girl noted that most of the baskets in the second layer of the cart were almost full, which made her nod happily. After all, she could not wait to taste the... fruits of their labours as it was.

Softly giggling, Yae turned to where the others were still working with a slight smile on her face.

Her friends, and she was happy to call them that, had been working alongside her for several hours now. All of them were more than a little sweaty from work, but there were grins and smiles on their faces. Some of which had been smeared with raspberry juice from ones that they had eaten after picking. None of them, however, were frustrated with the crop that they had gathered and reached about the midway point.

Looking over her shoulder, the Kendoka could see why. There was already a bottom layer of baskets just filled with raspberries. Over that, they had placed a board and started a second layer. Needless to say, all of them were looking forward to a large amount of preserves and jam from just this!

When she turned back to the others, Yae could only shake her head. After all, it was obvious how they managed to gather so many. Harry, herself, and almost all of the others had worked along the outside of the bushes from the ground. Meanwhile, Asuka was hovering over the bushes and plucking ripe berries from there which she would bring over and dump into the baskets once her pail was filled.

But the biggest difference came from the shipgirls.

Iku and the others were mostly plucking the berries from the outside like the rest of the teens that where there besides Asuka. However, they had one advantage that the others didn't... their fairies. Said small beings would go into the bushes along the bottom and disappear in groups of a dozen or so. And then, return a few minutes later will a filled pail which went into the baskets. Even as Yae watched, a group of Hachi's came trotting out with such a pail filled with raspberries that they dumped into one of the baskets with excited "Desus". Something that still made her want to giggle.

Of course, that moment was brought to an end as the sound of someone eating made Yae turn and stare a little. Because Jin was there on a lounge chair with a pail filled with berries beside her. Every so often, the corrupted Mizuchi would reach in for a handful and toss them back, noisily snacking on them. It was just so at odds with how Mizuchi were supposed to be according to the lore that she had looked up.

Moments later, Shiromizu turned and gave her Senpai a look, "You could help, Senpai! The rest of us are busting our tails for this!"

Amused as she swallowed another handful, Jin waved a hand, "I am helping!" Taking a berry, she tossed it back with a grin, "After all, I'm testing the product to make sure that it is all right."

Scowling at that, Shiromizu took a berry and tossed it... only got the other Mizuchi's tongue to lash out like a frog and catch it before drawing it back onto her mouth with a laugh. Various others stared at her before shaking their heads and going back to picking. The raspberries were not going to pick themselves!

Plucking one of the berries from the bush, Usagi looked it over before popping it into her mouth with a happy hum. For a rabbit Yokai, this was close to food heaven. So much fresh fruit, and no one and issue with her eating some right from the bush, well... besides teasing her about not having as much as them.

It was wonderful, however.

However, right then, Usagi looked down at her pail and noticed something that made her frown,"Wait... am I missing berries?"

Beside her, Kaku snickered a little a little before poking her side, "I don't know... maybe they all went straight to your stomach?"

That got his hand slapped to his amusement, but the rabbit Yokai looked at her pail with a frown on her face, "No, seriously, I think that I'm missing berries."

Just as Kaku was about to comment, Rika looked into her pail and furrowed her eyebrows, "Wait a moment... I think that I'm missing a bunch of berries too! Where did they go?"

When Natsumi chimed in that she thought she was missing some as well, Harry raised an eyebrow. Clearing his throat, he looked at one spot in particular, "Kenshō..."

Seemingly to fade into existence, said Kogatana blinked, "Um, yes, Master? What is it?"

If anything, Harry just raised his eyebrows further, "Did you take their berries?"

Eyes wide, and innocent expression on her face, Kenshō shook her head, "No..." At his amused look, she looked away, "Honest! Someone else must have taken them!"

Unfortunately, her innocent look was ruined by the fact that her hands and the area around her mouth was stained with berry juice.

Just barely keeping back his laughter, Harry hummed, "I see..." Then, he smiled softly and held up an extra pail, "Then I am sure that you don't mind helping until we catch the thief, then?"

Pouting, the blade spirit scuffed her shoe, "Mou... Okay, Master." Walking up, she took hold of the pail and skipped to a spot, "Hmm... this looks good!"

Extremely amused, Harry waggled a finger at her, "Just don't eat most of the berries! We need to make sure that your appetite is not ruined." That got him a bright, and happy, smile as well as a nod. Bemused, Harry shook his head as he turned back to the bushes, 'Best keep an eye on her just the same...'

Only a short distance away, Taiyang giggled slightly as she plucked berry after berry from the bush in front of her expertly. And why would she not? One needed to only remember that Tamamo had spent most of her time in the wilderness. Thus, foraging was something that came to her like a second nature.

Like the others, she had tried some of the raspberries and compared them to the ones that she knew from Japan. Humming to herself, Taiyang enjoyed the sweetness, but also the slight tart taste which balanced it. Personally, she was looking forward to trying some of the sweets that her Master had hinted could be made with them. Hearing a happy giggle, she turned towards Kenshō and smiled at the younger blade spirit. There was a happiness and innocence there.

But, more than that, she watched her interactions with Harry and was rather pleased. Just as when they had the beach party, he began to act like a father to the seemingly young girl. Unknowingly, yet, but still in such a way. It gladdened the Dao as it stated much about the sort of man he was. And, as well, what sort of father he could be when the time came for him and Natsumi to have kits of their own.

Lips curling into a soft smile, the blade spirit shook her head, "Adorable."

A chuckle made Taiyang turn to the side where Goldie was also plucking berries and placing them into a pail. For a few moments, the Blade of Tamamo watched the Sword of Caeser with an interested look on her face. With her age, it was few blades that she had met whom were her equal in any way, in particular age. Yet, thus far, she had met two older than her.

Carnwennan, she had found, was a good conversationalist with his breadth of age and experience. Like her, he was also used to operating from the shadows and was quite good at what he did. Not to mention the tales that he told from this "King Arthur" amused her to no end. Granted, she did pity the poor man having to herd so many cats, as the saying went. Not to mention what his wife did! Though, she supposed, that was humanity for you.

Frankly, she would have slain the wife and "Sir Lancelot" well before that point... and maybe take Guinevere's place, far easier and less messy. Though she was amused at his expressions and exasperation when she told him how she would have handled it. And he had snorted at the whole bit where she stated how she would have secured Guinevere's fall.

Now, that said, "Goldie" was of another sort from both her and Carnwennan both.

In a word, the Roman blade was interesting to her. Oh, Taiyang had looked up the man in question whom had owned her. And, she had to admit, that she was impressed with him. Yes, a few hundred years later his empire was in such a state that it was easy work for her Master to help it along. But the man himself, this "Julius Caeser"? She could feel impressed with him if for no other reason than his achievements, and could understand somewhat why some Chinese had thought Rome was their equal if they had been thinking of his time.

Though, in the end, that made her even more disappointed in what such a nation turned into.

Shaking off such thoughts, Taiyang hummed a little as she glanced at the Roman blade from the corner of her eye, "I wonder if I could ask you a question...."

With a glance, Goldie gave a nod, "Of course! Ask away, Umu."

Only nodding slowly, the Dao hummed, "Does it not bother you, that they do not call you by your true name? Instead of Crocea Mors, they refer to you as 'Goldie'."

Much to her surprise, Goldie laughed a little, "Should it?" Lips curling, she chuckled, "A name is but that, a name. And amicitia mean nothing by it. It is a mark of endearment that they gift me such a nickname after all! Truly, it is something Roman!"

Unable to help herself, Taiyang giggled a little, "I see, Mikon!"

Nodding to herself, her and Goldie continued to talk with each other.

At the same time, Yae was looking towards the Dao in thought before looking at herself and sighing a little, 'Why... and did she drink a lot of milk? Is that how...'

However, she shook such thoughts off and looked curiously over at Kenshō in thought. The small girl was currently humming as she filled the small pail at her side with raspberries. Granted, the teenage Kendoka blinked as Kenshō gave a happy smile towards Harry, "I can't wait to give some of these to Suisei-Oba-Chan, Master! Mou... she'll make lots of desserts for me and Okaa-Chan! And Na-Kaa-San!"

Eyebrow raised, Harry poked her in the side which made her giggle, "Okaa-Chan and I, Kenshō. Also, I can imagine that you will love them when she does that..." Lips curling into a smirk, he snickered, "Hopefully you don't balloon outwards too much."

That got him a poke which he snickered about, "Mou... that's being mean, Master." Pausing, she looked down at her stomach before patting it, "Besides, I couldn't get big no matter how many treats I eat!"

Rather amused at that pronouncement, Harry could only hum a little, 'I wonder how much Suisei has fed her since meeting her... Probably a lot.'

Curious, Yae furrowed her eyebrows some in thought before moving over to where Kenshō was. For several moments, she was looking at the small girl though looking at her features, she had to wonder. Then, the Kendoka blinked as she noted that Kenshō was not looking at her in the eyes. Everyone stopped what they were doing to watch the staredown in some amusement.

A staredown that came to an end when Kenshō reached out and tapped Yae on the nose, "Boop!"

Rapidly blinking, and not having expected that, the teen jerked away before looking back at the small blade spirit who giggled. Shaking it off, Yae turned to Harry with a curious expression on her face, "Um, Harry-San? Who..."

Briefly, she forgot who she was talking about as Kenshō disappeared before reappearing beside her, "Hi! I'm Muramasa no Kenshō! And I'm Master's Kogatana!"

Just blinking for a moment, Yae furrowed her eyebrows before introducing herself. Of course, then she had a thoughtful look on her face, "Muramasa? As in the smith, Muramasa?" At the nod, her eyes widened a little as she leaned down to better examine the greyish haired girl before her, "Huh... so you're like Tokunotakai-Sensei? A spirit of a blade?"

Happily smiling, the Kogatana nodded, "Hai! That's right!" Once more disappearing, she reappeared hugging Harry, "I'm Master's Kogatana, like I said."

Gently patting her on the head and getting a happy hum, Harry looked at a bemused Yae and revealed the small blade at his side before drawing it with her steel flashing in the warm sunlight, "Here."

Leaning in to examine it, Yae considered it for a few moments before something occurred to her, "Wait, how is it that she can, um..."

Only raising one eyebrow, the teenager hummed, "Fade in and out of sight and memory?" At the unsure nod, he gave a small shrug, "It... seems to be an evolved version of what her mother, Kyoshu the Blade of Faded Memories, can do."

Frown on her face, Yae blinked, "Kyoshu...?" She furrowed her eyebrows in thought for a moment, "I think that Sensei mentioned her. Something about... how she's harmless now and more likely to forget things?"

The sound of shuffling made her look down to see a downcast Kenshō there, "Okaa-San... wasn't a good person. She was hurting, so she made others hurt to try and help herself. A-and she was able to take away memories or even make people forget someone entirely. B-but during the war..."

Having walked over, Natsumi gently held the smaller girl to her before looking at Yae, "Kyoshu-San was... not a good person, to say the least. And during the war, she teamed up with a certain group before finding out that for all she was such, there were those far worse who then did things to her. Which also included removing Kenshō-Chan, here, from her actual blade and making her a Kogatana."

It did not take a genius to figure out what was meant, and Yae swallowed as she felt a little bit of bile rise up in her throat. Not towards the little girl, for she was an innocent, but the ones who caused it. With a deep breath, she let it out, "So when Sensei says that she's harmless...?"

Okita spoke up and shrugged, "She means it." Everyone turned to her and she snorted a little, "I actually fought her several times and caused her to withdraw."

Surprised, the Kendoka stared for a moment as she remembered how experienced and capable her Sensei was and figured that this "Kyoshu" had to be her own level, "Really?"

Lightly chuckling, Okita nodded a little, "The Shinsengumi were police after all." She grimaced a little before continuing, "But there were very few of us who could match Kyoshu, especially with her abilities to manipulate memories." After a moment, the reincarnated warrior shook her head, "Seeing her now, however? She's... definitely not the same blade. Most of her own memories were wiped and she acts more like a child or an elderly with memory problems."

More than a little shocked and surprised, Yae considered asking, but in the end decided that she likely didn't want to know. Instead, she turned to Kenshō with a small smile, "So you came into possession of Harry-San, then?"

Humming even as she leaned into Natsumi, Kenshō nodded, "Hai, Master found me in a dark place and..." A shudder went through her before she shook her head, "Um, then he fixed all the bad work."

At the confusion on Yae's face, Harry grimaced, "After they cut her from her Okaa-San's blade, they... used a grinder to 'Smooth out' the top and spot welded a tang." Ignoring the utter horror on the Kendoka's face, he cleared his throat and gently patted Kenshō's head, "Transfiguration is very powerful when used properly so I added some shipgirl steel recovered from repairs to the spine of the blade as well as the tang, then transfigured away the shoddy work done."

Crouching down, the Kendoka pulled a surprised Kenshō into a hug, "I'm sorry that such a thing happened to you, Gozaru."

Only hugging her back, Kenshō nuzzled her a bit, "It's okay, because Master made it all better and now I don't hurt."

Simply nodding, Yae held the small blade's avatar for a few more moments before letting go. Then, to Harry's surprise, she bowed to him, "Thank you, Harry-San. For doing what you did and showing true respect, Gozaru."

Quickly, he bowed back to her just as deeply, "Thank you, Yae-San." Glancing at the raspberries in the wagon and the pails that were mostly filled, he nodded, "I think, maybe, we should dump the last few raspberries and then break for some lunch."

Blinks met him and everyone turned to look at the wagon before eyes widened as they realized that the last few baskets there were nearly filled. As quick as only hungry teens could be, they dumped their last few raspberries into said baskets and then watched as the pony went off back towards the manor with their spoils. Then, the group of them sat down on a bench that Ayase pulled out before taking out their lunches.

Just biting into hers, Asuka looked over the bushes and nodded a little to herself, "I think that we're about halfway done. It shouldn't be more than..." Looking up at the sky, she frowned for a few moments before nodding, "Maybe five more hours of work? And then we're done with these bushes."

Her shoulders slumping a bit even as she chewed some lettuce and tomato from her sandwich, Usagi sighed, "And I am glad for that." She then gave a small shrug and went to take another bite, "Though all the jams and such will be more than worth it."

That got her nods from the others before Harry spoke up, "True, but that also means that we can have a little fun. And later, I'll make up some raspberry fool for us all."

Perking up a bit, Kaku looked over at him in interest, "Raspberry... fool? Is that something British?"

Lips quirking a little, the teenage wizard nodded, "Hai, it's a dessert and pretty simple." He began to tick off on his fingers, "The main ingredients are raspberries, cream or thickened, evaporated milk, and sugar. It's really good as well."

Beside him, Natsumi licked her lips some, "Hai, it really is." A snicker then escaped her and she grinned a bit, "Almost as good as an Eton Mess."

With a laugh, Harry grinned back at her, "Hai, just not the political one."

Seeing the confusion, he began to explain as to what, exactly, an "Eton Mess" was much to the amusement of the others.

Eventually, the talk turned to other matters, with Yae grabbing one of the bottles of soft drinks and looking at it in curiosity, 'Ribena?' Opening it, she took a sip and blink, "Huh..."

Looking over at her, Harry nodded some, "Not what you expected?"

Just nodding as she looked at the bottle, the Kendoka frowned, "Hai..." Eyebrows furrowing as she tried to read the writing, she blinked, "Blackcurrants?"

Harry nodded as he sipped his own bottle, "Well, that is what they're famous for, blackcurrant flavoured soft drinks. Didn't get to taste it much when I was younger, but..." He gave a small shrug, "I've always enjoyed it."

On a nearby stone, Kenshō was sitting in Taiyang's lap happily eating a jam sandwich as she kicked her legs out. The foxy Dao, on the other hand, was eating some rice and the like with peanut butter crackers. Looking down at the smaller blade, Taiyang smiled a little, "Enjoying yourself?"

Nodding, the Muramasa smiled brightly, "Hai!" Shifting a bit, her back of her head was against Taiyang's chest, her next words getting a laugh from the much older blade, "I got comfy pillows!"

_____________________________________________________________________

Yae came down the stairs of the millhouse stretching a little with the Sun setting outside. Spotting her, Natsumi sipped her tea with a slight smile, "Evening."

The Kendoka looked out the window and blinked as, sure enough, the Sun was close to the horizon which made her stare for a moment before shaking it off, "Um, evening...?"

Pausing for a moment, she could hear sounds just outside the window before they suddenly vanished. When she looked at Natsumi, said Kitsune shrugged, "Those were our past selves right before they went back to the morning to rest."

For a few moments, Yae considered that before grimacing some and rubbing the side of her head, "Time travel hurts my head, Gozaru."

Softly snorting, Natsumi glanced to where Harry was cooking before nodding, "Not just yours, but anyone's. But that is just how things work really."

Even though she still had a bit of a headache, the other teen nodded even as she could hear the others moving around upstairs. Looking to where Harry was, she blinked, "Um... is he making breakfast?"

Looking over his shoulder, Harry chuckled a little, "Hai, after all this is our breakfast you know."

Once more, Yae considered that before nodding despite how odd it seemed. Soon enough, however, the room filled up with the others who were all chatting about various things. Of course, that was when food was served.

Usagi blinked a little as she looked down at the piece of toast topped with melted cheese that Harry had placed in front of her. As a vegetarian, she didn't mind cheese after all, and it was good. But... still, why would he place that in front of her, "Uh, Harry-Kun? Why...?" Her suspicions deepened when Natsumi glanced over, did a double take and then begin to choke some on her food to the point where a bemused Taiyang had to pat her on the back, 'What did he do...?'

Grin on his face, the wizard looked over at her, "Why? I thought that you might enjoy... Welsh rarebit."

Practically everyone paused at that for several moments before there were snorts which soon became laughter. Unamused expression on her face, though her lips twitched, Usagi gave the unrepentant Harry a look, "Really? I mean, really? You actually went there..."

With a small shrug, Harry hummed a bit, "Would I be me if I didn't?"

Confused, Yae furrowed her eyebrows as she looked from the toast to Harry, "Um, Harry-San?" Getting a sound to continue, she did so, "Well... rarebit? It just looks like cheese on toast..."

The teenage wizard waggled his hand a bit, "Rabbit was an extremely uncommon meal in Wales for the longest time. The common people weren't allowed to hunt them on the property of the, usually, English nobility. Thus, they made due with cheese instead." A grin on his face, he snickered some, "If you wanted, Usagi-Chan, I could have added tomato... because then it would be known as a blushing bunny. Or an egg to make golden buck!"

Said rabbit Yokai's only reaction was to give him a look before snorting and taking a bite out of her food and rolling her eyes... Though she did ask for a second which got snickers. Once all the food was put away, which with hungry teens did not take long, Harry pulled out a cooler and dumped ice into it. Then, he placed some wrapped objects which got looks until he explained that they were sausage for the midday meal, which got nods from the others.

And, with that done, the group went outside and walked the short distance behind the millhouse before Natsumi pulled out the time turner. With a small nod, she extended the chain around all of them before looking at it, "Okay... time to go back twelve hours."

Everyone nodded in agreement and the Kitsune turned back the clock with time running backwards. As the time travel slowed and came to a stop, they all looked around in curiosity with Ayaka shaking her head, "I don't think that I will ever get used to that..."

That got her nods and they set off, while making sure that they would keep out of sight of their past selves. Entering the orchard, they made their way along another path, towards another part away from where the raspberry bushes were. Partway there, however, Asuka blinked and looked down, "Um, Harry-San? There's something over there, some sort of building? Looks almost like those pictures of that place in Greece."

It took only moments, but Harry's eyes lit up a bit and he hummed some, "I wonder... Which way was it?"

Confused, Asuka pointed in one direction, "It's over there actually." Just maybe a hundred feet?"

Not long after, the group entered what looked like a small clearing in the orchard with a stone building there. Like Asuka stated, it looked similar to a Greek temple, except for the statues that were there at the front. One statue was of a female Centaur, a soft, peaceful smile on her face. And leaning against her was the statue of a young man with what seemed like messy hair with her hand on his brow. Both looked almost like they could get up and move about. What struck those looking was just how... loving the two looked.

Slowly, Harry walked up to the building and placed a hand on it before smiling a little at the inscription, "This... this is the tomb of one of my ancestors, Potter Joachim and the Centauress Elm."

Eyes wide, Yae boggled a bit, "Gozaru..." Then she furrowed her eyebrows and moved around it though at a distance, "Um, but why is it here?"

Rubbing his thumb along the inscription, Harry glanced over at her, "Hmm, well, it is an interesting story." Straightening up, he examined the statues more closely, "Joachim was a young lad just barely a man when he was attacked by a group of trolls, but Elm saved his life. In exchange, he gave her his friendship and gifted her with a bracelet that would allow for him to know if she was in danger. Something that became useful as just a few days later, her own brother banished her from their herd and nearly beat her to death for helping a human."

Jaw dropping, there was actual anger in Ayaka's voice as she clenched her fists, which shook, "Say what!? They nearly killed her because she protected someone?!"

The teenage wizard shrugged, "British Centaurs are... not the nicest, generally. But yeah, so he saved her life and nearly killed her brother in retaliation. It was only Elm's asking him that stayed his hand from wiping them all out with the rest of the Potters helping."

Snorting, Nobu crossed her arms with a narrowed eyed look, "I would have been harder to convince not to do such. Matters of honour would demand it."

Once more, Harry shrugged, "Well, anyways, two contracts were written. One placed Elm under the protection of the Potters and the other was that her brother nor his herd could ever do anything to harm her knowingly. She became a companion and guard for him, travelling with him all over when he went hunting or travelling aboard. They even went to places such as Italy, with the Potters having a custom set of armor made for her. She even allowed him to ride upon her back, which angered other Centaurs, but she did not care in the slightest as they already made their decision for her simply helping Joachim, and he had shown her more kindness than they had. The two were close, very much so, though he married a Malfoy Lucinda in an arranged, unhappy marriage."

No one noticed a certain Sendai's face having turned redder and redder as the story went on, 'She... was his close companion... and guard...'

Unknowing of Ayase's reaction, Harry continued the story, "The marriage had been arranged by the Wizengamot under quite a bit of controversy as there was a feud going on with the Potters and Blacks on one side, and the Malfoys along with some minor houses that held grudges against us. They claimed that it was supposed to promote peace between the families. But... there were some rumours of the Malfoys having paid them off." Waving a hand, he shook his head, "Anyways, Lucinda died in childbirth giving birth to hers and Joachim's second and third children, a pair of twins. The Malfoys claimed foul play, but... nothing was ever proven. And nothing that I have read stated one way or the other."

Interested in the story, Ayase cleared her throat, "U-um, what happened next? If... I can ask?"

With a look towards her, the teenage wizard smiled, "Well... Elm then stepped in as the wet nurse for the children and cared for them as if they were her own. They even called her mother... which angered the Malfoys. Some of them teamed up with the Centaurs of her old herd to try and kill both her as well as Joachim. But, well... there was the contract and magic was the arbiter of that, you see. There's reasons why there's no more Centaurs in Kingly Vale where they had dwelt and why the Malfoy were nearly wiped out by a mysterious sickness." Looking towards the statues, Harry became thoughtful, "Both Elm and Joachim were close and continued to be so for the rest of their lives. There was a bit of a stir when, after two years abroad, the two returned with a child, a son."

Blinking, Jin cocked an eyebrow in interest, "Wait, a son? Did they...?"

Only shrugging, Harry shook his head, "Never said actually. Though said son was my direct ancestor. Lucinda's daughter married into the Longbottoms while her sons went off and founded branch families in the Channel islands. As for the son that Joachim brought back, his explanation was that he had gotten married in the Holy Roman Empire, but that his new wife had died shortly after childbirth, thus he brought said son back. Now, like his siblings, he also called Elm 'Mother'..." He then gave a small shrug, "Considering things? I wouldn't be too surprised to be honest."

Part of the wizard was confused about why Natsumi suddenly went red in the face, but shrugged it off as Okita was looking at the tomb in thought, "And when she died... he had a tomb made for her?"

Harry gave a nod at that, "Hai, though part of it was due to how things worked then. See, the local Priest would not allow Joachim to bury Elm in the churchyard. After all, she was not human, which angered not just Joachim, but the rest of the Potters. He later was... removed... from his position, but the damage was done. Due to that, and how she loved to simply lay here in the Sun with him leaning against her, he had dwarves build a tomb for her in the Ancient Greek tradition. The statues themselves he created over the last ten years of his life. As per his will, after his death, he was laid beside her within the tomb so that they could be companions for all eternity."

Simply holding her hands to her chest, Ayase gave a smile towards the grave, 'You were happy, weren't you? He was your Lord, and you his Servant... but you were more than that. And are even now...'

The group lingered there for a while longer, just soaking in the feeling of peace and contentment that filled the small clearing.

But, soon enough, they left with goodbyes to the tomb before continuing on. Reaching the area of the orchard with cherries, they looked around in awe at the succulent fruit hanging from the branches. Flying up, Asuka examined some of the cherries, poking and prodding them until she plucked a few and landed, "Huh..."

Walking over, the others looked at the glossy, red fruit in interest. Taking one, Yae looked at Asuka who nodded before she bit into one and closed her eyes, "So good... Gozaru..."

Each of the others also took some, and soon they were all nodding. Looking around at the trees as she licked her lips, Usagi nodded to herself, "Well, we should get to work if we want to get more..."

Arms crossed, the Tengu nodded some before frowning, "Now, before we get started, you all need to understand what to pick." Flying up, it took her a few moments only to pick some more cherries which she held out once back on the ground, "Now, cherries don't ripen anymore once plucked from the trees. These are ripe ones, which means that they're soft..."

From there, she explained more and soon the others all got to work getting picking the cherries. Like before, the shipgirls used their fairies to do so much to the amusement of the others. Some, like Rika and Kaku, climbed up into the trees to get the fruit there as well, with Asuka flying around said trees near the top and getting some there. Harry, meanwhile, was using magic to get ripe fruit from the branches as was Goldie who knew much the same spells.

Slowly, but surely, they began another day's work.
 
Why Colombe and Lyra did not have a daughter
Informational Yellowhammer: Why Colombe and Lyra did not have a daughter

Yellowhammer said:
Colombe was much more careful in that regard, and infinitely more responsible. One thing she had hammered into the solid steel of her skull was that You Take Responsibility For Your Children.

SkyeFire said:
And Ian was forged from similar steel.

But... this does raise a question. Given how deeply in love Colombe was with both Ian and Lyra, I have to imagine that they would have been on the very short list of people she seriously considered having children with, deliberately. I wonder why she didn't? I'm sure if she'd ever broached the subject, Ian and Lyra would have reacted with joy de vivre. And enthusiasm.

beorn91 said:
This was what I meant.
*-*-*-*


It is a very good question. Which I will try to answer, apologies for the length.

The Doylist reason is "the creator of the OC AKA Yours Truly" had her as single to not complicate the dynamics when and if she was accepted into the cast and would have then gotten integrated into Team Elder Butterknife in some fashion. Don't put too many moving parts in to rock the boat especially when other authors like Harry Lefferts and Lord K get impacted by what is being thrown in as it impacts their characters like Tsukiakari, Norimune, and so on who would have suddenly-manifest ties and past shared experiences with Colombe et al. Plus any Potter child would necessarily upset major canon with regard to Harry Potter since his family tree is pretty set in stone and he doesn't have a great-great uncle/aunt with Colombe known.

That said, Colombe was always 'intended' to have a daughter(s) at some point. The original plan when the character concept took form was that the African bracelet would manifest herself and get adopted by Colombe and Kasuyu after meeting Norimune. Unfortunately, the best laid schemes of mice, men, and Butterknives gang aft agley. With her suddenly demanding at rapier-point to be written and her backstory getting backfilled with the snippets that I have done such as Operation Butterknife, well, her relationships got explored and grew in unexpected and unplanned for ways.

Originally the Ian/Lyra/Colombe thing was a bit of a throwaway gag/potential plot hook along the lines 'of course Ian the manwhore slept with Colombe and Norimune who also switch hit with the ladies' when I did her biography.

Then suddenly I needed a significant character to fill the gap between "Colombe Burns Down Gestapo HQ" and "Delilah Enters Stage Right With The Map To The Macguffin, Start Race To The Sleeper" plot points so enter Lyra into Butterknife. Because of course The Last du Chasteler will go full Horatius At the Bridge Last Stand to get her allies out of the trap no matter how badly she's going to be shot up in the doing.

Of course part of that little 'one against many' suicidal rearguard action (as was alluded to in implication by Colombe to Lyra) was a only partially under control death wish so as to make account for her failures real and only imagined to her loves whom she had 'failed'. Colombe was a massive mess in 1941, and an even more massive mess in 1903 when Lyra really got to work on putting her headspace back together. In fact, it wouldn't surprise me, thinking of it all and positing that Karl Potter was studying under Lyra (and that Lyra was a psychologist), that Colombe's Third African Trip with Karl and then Tamenokalt was a bit of mobile therapy for Dove Blade under the attention of Lyra's star pupil to get her into an environment which was totally fresh for her (pity WWI then blew up on them).

Said entrance frankly got away from me when I woke Colombe up in Lyra's bed to grab me by the ear and demand a deep psychological dive into her tormented magnificent Muramasa madness in the presence of someone who clearly was close enough to her to let Colombe strip her soul bare to the foundations for needed comfort and reassurance after the Wolff relationship ended (I might need to go back and do some Co/Wolff stuff set just before Butterknife to develop that a bit more). Which of course forced the Lyra relationship from 'fling' into something much deeper, richer, and more meaningful than the one-night-stand that it had been in the biography.

I don't regret it in the least as I think it helped develop Colombe in some great ways both with the look inside her psyche and with the foundations laid for the close Del/Co mature relationship of Hunt for Norimune. Plus Del got a girlfriend/foil, which was a nice unplanned side benefit to the planned 'Colombe gets an antagonist/primary villain for the big To/Co post-Norimune reunion story'.

Also it let me play with Lyra, and I think and hope that I did a good job of writing her and fleshing her out. Kinky little psychologist that she apparently is.

Which leads me to have to come up with a Watsonian answer to the question.

"Why not a child with Lyra and/or Ian between meeting them in 1897 and Lyra's death sometime after 1942? Clearly all three loved each other, money was not an issue, they would all Do The Right Thing...so why not?"

The answer has to come from Colombe, and more specifically that when she showed up in 1897, Colombe was a very broken bird indeed that took decades to mend. As a result she felt that she would not do a good job of being a parent and therefore never expressed the interest to Lyra and Ian before WWII.

To wit, in 1864 she (apparently) wrecked her chance to find her father and got thrown out of Japan on her ear. This was a real blow to her since Hachiman ROFLstomped her hard despite her best efforts (and she thought that he was a normal monk) .

Then upon returning home after moping around for a year or so and taking the scenic route back to Belgium, she finds that her niece and nephew 'died of cholera' in 1861, leaving the family just her and Hippolyte (with her moping because she failed to find Norimune so they are it).

So in addition to the disappointment of wrecking her dream to avenge Mom's dishonor on Dad's twitching body at her feet, throw in a double helping of guilt and grief because if she had been there she could have saved her nephew and his wife who was the daughter of the du Chasteler who wielded her vs Napoleon. Note that said nephew was the nine year old boy that Colombe saved from the Terror after she and he watched said boy's mother/Colombe's beloved younger sister get guillotined before their eyes (which was why Colombe first broke the SoS).

Now enter Hippolyte. He suckers her into nearly getting killed in the Franco-Prussian War (which she figured out during her walk out of the Congo). As a result of that, she is seriously injured and spends two decades recuperating at home. So she has lots of time to sit and brood about how everything she touches is turning to shit on her between playing the piano and dosing herself with (adulterated) healing potions.

Worse for her is at this point, she has no real motivation to do things and break out of her psychological slump because the driving passion of hunting for Dad had a bucket of cold water thrown on it and Hippolyte has the family well in hand. Advisor to King Leopold I, seen with the odd lady who he might marry, taxman is not beating on their door to repo the castle, the normal 'high society' events happening there semi-regularly, etc etc. Gilded paint over a rotting structure with the facade fooling Colombe, especially since Hippolyte is it for her social network at this point.

Next we have her get sent to the Congo in 1895 as part of a plan from Hippolyte to dispose of her and get full access to her wealth to further his studies in Dark Magics (and pay the bills). The one good thing about that was that she rediscovered her passion for life in spades... by wanting revenge on Hippolyte for his treachery plus disgust in what she saw there. Worse for her is that she had made some investments in the Congo under Hippolyte's prompting as part of the lead-up to the planned assassination, so on some level she felt complicit to what was going down there (which was truly sickening stuff indeed). As I mentioned, Claire's ivory keys came from the Belgian Congo so...yeah.

It speaks highly to her character and steel that she didn't just lay down and die right there when the mask totally came off rather than getting mad enough to spend two years walking out of Africa with plans to get even and save her family honor. Still, by the time that she reached England in 1897 she was in exceptionally bad shape psychologically (and not all that hot physically).

So when she runs into Ian and Lyra she was very much questioning her fitness as a du Chasteler and as parent material. I'm inclined to say that she met Lyra first because I'm now headcanoning Lyra having a talent for healing, incidentally, with Lyra being the primary person who helped Colombe get herself put back together. In fact, it is likely that some of the material in Lady Chastity was cribbed from Colombe's therapy notes compiled by Lyra.

(also this inverts the 'women throw themselves at Ian' trope Mr. Harem Protagonist had going on)

So, from Colombe's point of view between the 1860s and 1927 she viewed herself as a failure. She had failed to find her father, she had barely saved her family, she had failed to destroy Kasuyu the axe, she had failed to be there for Karl and Tamenokalt of the German Potters, she had failed to stop WWI from blowing up....

So why would she want to have a child when she was going to have that relationship turn to shit and fail too?

Especially since her father was a terrible parent (and how!) and Colombe was worried that she would go down the same road that Norimune did (this was not helped by putting Adopted Papa on a perhaps not totally deserved pedestal that she could not live up to).

Now after 1927, she began to really dig herself out from under. She had sisters finally, and she had managed to help buffer Lyra and be there to support Lyra when Ian died (which makes sense if Lyra was the one of the two that Colombe was psychologically closer to, Ian dying would be less of a blow to her).

At this point the other ugly problem with becoming a parent raised its head to stare Colombe in the face. Namely, it was clear to her that Lyra's days were very much numbered, and if they had a child, that child would be burying one of her parents at a young age (and leave Colombe alone to rear). Colombe would not put any child of hers through what she went through in only knowing Julie d'Aubigny in a painting's face, stories told by a grieving father and friends of her mother, and an aching hole in her heart that never really has ever healed.

Plus there was the not-insignificant risk that Colombe could buy the farm considering her lifestyle activities (and the rise of fascism in the 1930-40s). Colombe was very much aware she pulled a winning lottery ticket in the Adoption Sweepstakes with others much less fortunate.

Now the obvious counter was 'what about Colombe's family taking in the orphaned daughter?' and in that case you would rely on either Jacklyn who was not what Colombe thought of as 'proper parent material' (admittedly selling Jackie a bit short) or Delilah, who of the sisters Colombe had the most strained relationship to pre-1942. Del was reserved, controlled, and Colombe felt (with some justification) that Delilah was just looking for an excuse to do away with her if she became a threat to whatever Del was up to (which she was not telling Colombe).

As a side note, the Delilah/Colombe relationship only really developed 1942-45. On Colombe's end she was getting all kinds of disapproving Inspector Jauvert vibes from her sister the cop who clearly was not opening up to her back in 1927. On Delilah's end, she was actually struggling with trust issues (Del's weak point) because Delilah knew full well what kind of a high wire with no net above the pool of Death Potion tightrope act she and her mother were putting on.

Delilah trusted Jackie enough to know how Jackie would act and be able to plan for it, but Colombe was a major unknown variable. Worse, the first impression she got from Colombe was of immaturity thanks to Louisville and then reading Colombe's ICW file. Remember that Delilah was called in off vacation to clean up her sister's mess which included enchanting a statue to make an obscene gesture in downtown Louisville. Delilah getting wrapped up in a Colombe Dumpster Fire could very easily lead to Delilah getting executed (which Del doesn't mind because what she believes in is worth dying for) and Del's mother getting executed (which is Del's biggest no-no) if her sister was an irresponsible hothead.

Now after Butterknife and then other actions 1942-45, Delilah realized that she had badly misjudged Colombe (and vice versa), extended trust to her (as seen in Butterknife) which was reciprocated, and the two sisters warmed up to each other and are exceptionally close. Just at the time when Colombe would potentially have been a mother, she didn't have a family member she could trust to take care of her child if the worst happened.

TL; DR Colombe was and to a degree still is terrified of parenthood, first off because she she was a failure that would mess up her child considering the losing streak that she was on 1864-1897. Then after a few decades of therapy and Lyra more or less putting her head together, her child would grow up missing at least one parent from a young age and get hurt the way Colombe had been with Julie's death.


In short: "I don't want to fuck up the life of any kid of mine the way mine was fucked up by Julie's death, Hippolyte's treachery, and my failures. So no kids with Lyra and Ian."


Exactly this, compounded by the fact that she knew firsthand how badly a deadbeat daddy could mess up the kid's psyche. Since she was kind of living that whole scenario.

Normally Colombe would roll the dice on it because she also is incredibly brave and has some self-confidence, but she had spent the better part of a quarter-century getting nut-punched over and over again by life when she met Lyra and Ian.

1864-1927 was absolutely the worst part of her life and she was at a very low ebb (which happened to neatly coincide with the time when she would have to have had children with Ian and Lyra).

Now, that said, when she finds out that Ian and Lyra are around, she's crashing Kami-con to thank them both for what they did for her psychology. In a real sense, their relationship probably saved her.
 
The Bells Of Ath 1
Yellowhammer

A.N. -- It's time to start putting Ehren (and Colombe) back together to make them healthier and better than they were going into the Vatipire, so I'm going to post the first chunk of this up now, the rest will come this week. I would like to extend a massive amount of thanks to Sunhawk2 for creating and writing Father Jacques and doing the research to get the beliefs presented here correct for the priest.

The Bells Of Ath (I)

Eglise Saint-Julien d'Ath, Ath, Belgium

August 17th, 2014

Spoiler: A Sunday Morning Meditation

Colombe du Chasteler parked her car in the parking lot for the small row of shops in the village. She smiled slightly as she got out of the battered Volkswagen Golf which had been nicknamed the 'Reparo-Wagen' by her daughters. She stretched, pulled the space-expanded purse containing her true body out of the car, then reviewed the shopping list.

Groceries, check the local bookstore to see if Claire's order of a biography of Mozart had come in, and get something to cheer up Ehren.

Ehren….


Colombe frowned as she walked down the road toward the bookstore. Her youngest had been rescued from the utter monster that her father Helmar Wolff had turned himself into. Physically Ehren was on the mend from her ordeal, but emotionally....

Colombe sighed in concern for her youngest daughter's hidden wounds. Ehren had helped stop his mad plan, true, but at such a cost. Helping Colombe fight and kill her Vati, who Ehren had loved with a child's naive and innocent belief in her father, had cruelly shattered one of Ehren's few ties to the happy times of the past. A tie to the good and honorable man that he had been when Colombe had first met him. A man that Colombe privately mourned both for what he had become and for her betrayal of the relationship that they had shared. It was all her fault because she had seduced and used Helmar during the Second World War to infiltrate the SS secret police headquarters where he had worked so she could destroy it and strike a blow against the Nazi jackboot crushing down upon Europe.

Then when Helmar had returned after her betrayal, now changed into a vampire and fallen into darkness and evil from the good and honorable soldier that she remembered from the good times before, Colombe had not finished the job on him. Somehow he had escaped the deathtrap that they had fought in to stew in his malice and gather strength to get his revenge on her. Which she deserved for her betrayal of him, but instead of attacking her directly, he had instead kidnapped Ehren, the spirit of his Honor Dagger… and their daughter. The young woman who she had terribly wounded in body and spirit both with her failures.

Truly the sins of the mother were visited upon the daughter, she thought glumly as she continued in her walk down the village street. Down through her memories from seventy years in the past.

She paused at a bronze plaque attached to a scarred and bullet pocked wall surrounding the ancient church of Eglise Saint-Julien d'Ath. Her fingers touched the seventeen inscribed names memorialized on the plaque. Her head bowed and her shoulders shook with unshed tears.

Seventeen names of citizens of Ath that had been executed there by the Germans in August 1944 as they fled the advancing Allied armies as they liberated her homeland.

Seventeen names that she, the Marchioness of Chasteler and Moulbaix, was responsible for as her Papa had been responsible for when he ruled this part of her family's ancestral landholding.

Seventeen names of people that she had failed to protect. Her charges who she had not been there for so she could stand in their defense as a noblewoman should, to sacrifice her life for theirs as she had been taught. For just as much had been granted to her as an aristocrat, even more was demanded of her.

Papa would have saved them...somehow,
she told herself, knowing in her heart that while others such as her half-sister Delilah had argued that she had done all that she could and more and the words spoken to her were true, they did not mean that she would ever accept them.

Her lips opened and she whispered heartfelt words filled with the stifled tears that she would never shed publicly to the plaque holding some of the unquiet ghosts of her past in the deserted street this Sunday morning.

"Please forgive me for failing you."

She couldn't tell if those were spoken to the dead that she had not been there for, or for her youngest daughter, or to the ghost of Helmar before his fall to evil. In the end, she supposed, it did not matter because she had failed each equally greatly.
Spoiler: A Call To Church

As she spoke, a sudden peal of a bell interrupted her thoughts. The voice of the bronze bell in the church she was standing next to was sounding its call for the faithful to gather for Sunday Mass.

She remembered her Papa telling her and her siblings over dinner one evening when she was a young girl that he had gifted the church the bell that was now pealing joyfully to commemorate and celebrate the birth of his firstborn son, her older half-brother François Gabriel Joseph du Chasteler de Courcelles. That Papa had made a point of attending Mass in this church regularly if his duties and responsibilities permitted so he could learn the mood of his subjects and find out their concerns. While he celebrated Mass as well in her private family chapel in the castle, he needed to be present as a good ruler should, since in the eyes of God, he was no more and no less than another flawed and failed sinner.

Another peal interrupted her memories.

"How long had it been since she had gone to Mass?" she asked herself. Her memories responded after that prodding that she had been to the celebratory Te Deum on the 25th of August 1944 in Notre-Dame de Paris the day after the Liberation. "That long?" she whispered to herself as she turned toward the call of the bell.

A third peal answered her as she walked down to join the group of villagers and tradespeople entering the church.

As she entered, her eyes lingered on the ancient stone baptismal font in the nave where she had been baptized alongside all her half-siblings, nieces and nephews. Her vision clouded as tears filled her eyes, as she then began to automatically walk toward the ornately carved and engraved antique oak pew at the front that had been reserved for her family as the Lords of Ath for four centuries.

A fourth peal of the bell interrupted her stride.

No, she thought, she did not deserve that honor. Not today, perhaps not ever, not as unconfessed and burdened by her sins and failures as she was. With that in mind she walked to one of the pews in the back as yet another anonymous sinner in the eyes of her Savior as he observed from the crucifix above the altar. She clasped her hands together and bowed her head in silent prayer as the bells of Ath called her once more.
Spoiler: A Lost Lamb Returns

An elderly priest garbed in the white vestments of an ordinary mass, accompanied by a young boy wearing the robes of an acolyte, stepped from the sacristy door to the accompaniment of the tinkling of bells. The small congregation rose to their feet as he paced steadily towards the low altar at the base of the nave.

"Au nom du Père et du Fils et du Saint-Esprit." he spoke softly, his voice quivering slightly from age. As he spoke he made the sign of the cross in time with the words, and the congregation responded as one with an Amen.

Automatically Colombe crossed herself and then perused the small card in the missal that she had picked up to help her follow along during the rest of the Mass. It helped her navigate the modern changes that Vatican II had made from the Latin Mass of her childhood. She had somewhat mixed feelings about the changes, she supposed, since there was something in the tradition and dignity of the Church Latin that called to her. Of course it helped that she was fully fluent and literate in Church Latin as a noblewoman should be.

As the last of the congregation settled back into their seats, the priest up at the altar diligently cleansed and purified the sacred vessels before ceremoniously processing the ciborium to the tabernacle. It was the work of a few minutes, before he looked back out across the nave.

"Le Seigneur soit avec vous." he said with a smile as he spread his arms in the benediction.

"Et avec votre esprit," came the response from the congregation. Colombe's quiet voice was one of the multitude responding to the words.

"Que Dieu tout-puissant vous bénisse," he gave the blessing, then made the sweeping gestures of the priestly form of the sign of the cross. "Le Père, le Fils et le Saint-Esprit."

"Amen," came the united response, Colombe's voice among the many.

"Allez, dans la paix du Christ." the elderly priest concluded with a gentle yet broad smile that seemed to radiate brotherhood.

"Nous rendons grâce à Dieu." the congregation responded in the traditional response, as the priest stepped to the side and genuflected deeply to the crucifix above the high altar.

Then he paused, shifting to Latin and speaking in unison with the rest of the congregation, somewhat surprising Colombe as it wasn't in the missal nor was it something she was really familiar with despite the far more familiar Latin. "{St Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, oh Prince of the Heavenly Host, cast into Hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen}"

Colombe blinked in shocked surprise as she automatically translated the Latin. "When did that get added?" she mentally asked herself. Then her brain suddenly provided a vivid memory from the Nivelle Offensive of 1917 where she and the other members of her unit had been blessed with that prayer after a midnight Mass in their dugouts before going up 'over the top' for that bloody debacle.

She winced and turned pale as a ghost at the memories of the horrors of the Great War, as she whispered 'Amen' alongside the congregation automatically out of unconscious habit as she wrestled with the demons of the past. She realized that she definitely needed to confess her mortal and grievous sins.

The effort needed to push down the memories of the hell of the trenches and the despairing screams of the wounded and dying around her as the German machine guns and artillery barrages cut them to pieces delayed her significantly. She finally stood and began to walk to the door and the awaiting priest after returning those unquiet ghosts back into the locked room in her soul that contained them.

The elderly priest had just finished blessing an older woman who had been speaking with him when Colombe reached the doors, and he turned to her with that same gentle smile.

One eyebrow twitched… he'd seen that look hidden deep in her eyes. Far more often than many, as he'd been a Navy chaplain for most of his career. That haunted, lost look of one who'd seen horrors beyond imagination. The look of one who'd seen death, up close, personal, and had somehow come through to the other side. He'd seen that look. On sailors. On Marines. Even on some of the shipgirls he'd ministered to before his forced retirement.

He'd seen that stance, that carriage. Special forces operators walked like that. Combat veterans moved like that. And she looked barely old enough to drink back in the States where he'd spent most of his ministry.

But his expression barely betrayed his discernment, just that one little twitch, yet his smile seemed to, if anything become more welcoming, more… comforting. "Hello, are you visiting Ath?" he asked in an old, gentle voice.

Colombe gave a small smile, "Yes and no. I live in Moulbaix but came into town to shop for my daughters when the bells called me here." She paused and her smile got far too sad. "I'm a member of this church and was baptized here but I have… lapsed, Father."

He nodded, still smiling, and reached out to take her hand. "It is never too late to return, Miss, God is patient with all of us, and calls us to Him in His good time."

Colombe took his hand, and he felt the calluses on her fingers of a fencer along with the controlled strength in her grip. "True… I… have the need to unburden myself, Father. Both for myself and my youngest daughter who I am worried for. She has been through so much and I feel helpless to help her… It's my fault." She said in a quiet brittle voice as her self-control wavered.

The priest simply nodded with that same gentle expression. "I am Father Jacques, dear, may I have the privilege of your name?" he asked, while behind his eyes his thoughts were whirring. She looked too young to have a daughter who had 'been through' much at all, but he'd seen enough 'young' women who were far older than he was that he more than recognized the sign of another before him. After all, in the last decade or so he'd been the chaplain to many shipgirls...

"Marchioness Colombe d'Aubigny du Chasteler, Father," she responded automatically with a curtsey that was clearly as natural to her as breathing and an aristocratic accent in her French. His eyes widened slightly as he recognized the family name of the Evil Count Hippolyte who his Grandmother had used to scare him into eating his vegetables when he grew up here in his home village of Ath. "It is a pleasure to meet you Father Jacques," she continued with a small smug smile in her expression. "I just returned from handling a matter in Africa." she finished quietly, looking through him with a thousand yard stare.

Fr Jacques gestured for Colombe to accompany him back into the church, as he sensed that such affairs were probably not the most appropriate topic for discussion outside where others could drop eaves. "A difficult deployment, if I may be so bold to assume?" he probed gently.

"Not for me," she said as they walked, "Ehren… my youngest daughter… was kidnapped by her Vati." She looked very sad and he sensed that she was restraining tears with a signal effort of will. "I… failed to handle matters properly with him in 1942 and poor Ehren had to suffer for my failure," she said with an absent haunted look on her face, "He kidnapped her several weeks ago to try to indoctrinate her into being a good little SS officer like he was." Her lips quirked in a smile that mingled smug pride and extreme sorrow. "She refused his blandishments to remain true to her morals and honor at the end, but I should have dealt with him and never let him come back to darken her life. Tell me Father, why are the sins of the mother visited on the innocent daughter?"

The priest barely paused in his stride, although there was a very tiny hitch that was obvious to somebody like Colombe. "I… see." he bowed his head slightly, murmuring a silent prayer beneath his breath. "Because there is evil in the world, and the enemy is always working to bring death into this fallen world," he said slowly. "We have the great gift of Free Will from God, but God knows too many use this gift poorly and choose evil rather than good, darkness rather than light." He looked over towards Colombe, one eyebrow quirking slightly. "But that never helps, does it? We still look at the evil, the darkness, in the world and demand to know why God, in his infinite grace, does not simply wipe it away. After all, why must the innocent suffer, yes?"

She nodded along and then spoke from the heart in answer, "Because those of us who are called and sworn to protect them fail in our sworn duties, Father."

He shook his head with a small smile, this was an answer he'd heard many times. "Did you deliberately place your daughter in danger?"

Her shoulders slumped, "I… want to say that it is my fault, but the last time before Africa that I fought Obersturmführer Helmer von und zu Wolff directly he had my sword hand off at the wrist and the Death Potion had nearly reached us…." she shuddered at the memories, then looked at the priest. "Father, do you believe in… magic?"

He chuckled slightly. "I spent years working alongside Constitution in the US." he replied, eyes twinkling just a little. "So you had no reason to believe that he was a threat to your daughter. How does this make it your failure?" he prodded gently.

She shook her head. "I don't mean shipgirls. I mean the things that are hidden from those without magic. If you check this parish's baptismal record from June of the year of our Lord Seventeen hundred and Seven, my name is there."

He simply nodded, eyes now definitely twinkling. "You mean what goes on on certain floors of the Woolworth Building, yes?" he paused for a moment. "I must say, you look quite spry for your age."

She gave a very melancholy smile. "Trust me, Father, immortality or what passes for it in my case is a curse to the one who must survive her friends."

"Yet do they truly die when you remember them? Are they not simply asleep and awaiting the Second Coming?" he said in response. "I am certain that the catechism hasn't changed that much since you were a girl, yes?"

"More Latin, less French at the Mass, but no, it has not changed really from what I saw today." she laughed briefly with a wry smile. "Regardless, to get back to your question, until he attacked Moulbaix and carried off Ehren, I thought that Helmar had died in 1942 in the deathtrap that I escaped, although I am sworn never to reveal more about the circumstances of what happened there. I had mourned the man that he was… the good man that he was. I failed to turn him from his false beliefs in Naziism and my duty to the Resistance forced me to betray him to destroy the Gestapo Headquarters in Lyon then. And I had tried to raise his… my… our daughter the best that I could although I failed Ehren once more when I failed to protect her from his return." Colombe's shoulders slumped, "I am certain that wherever Papa rests beyond the veil, he is disappointed in how far I have fallen and failed as a parent."

"Are you God?" he asked bluntly.

She shook her head sharply. "Non!" She snapped out.

He didn't give her a chance to continue. "Exactly. Perfection is an ideal, and in a perfect world things may have been different." he reached out and rested one hand on her shoulder. "You. Are. Not. God. None of us are. All of us fail, all of us fall down, all of us make mistakes, all of us have regrets. But God still loves us in His perfect mercy and Perfect love." He looked into the distance for a moment. "God will always forgive us, when we come to Him and simply ask. He's God, after all, it's what He does." his smile returned, the preacher receding as the priest once more took the fore. "But I am sure that you know that, in your head. It is your heart that refuses to accept it."

She nodded after several seconds of deep thought and contemplation, "Oui. I fear that I have much to confess, Father." She gave a small self-deprecating laugh as she walked with him toward the awaiting confessional. "After all, the last time I performed the Sacrament of Penance was on August 25th 1944 in Paris. And even then it was not everything…."
 
The Bells of Ath 2
Yellowhammer

A.N. -- And here's part 2 of the Father Jacques arc. The Old Priest does his research and meets some interesting inhabitants of Moulbaix. I figure we need some good feelings in the world these days. As always, thanks a TON Sunhawk2 for the help and co-writing here!

The Bells of Ath (II)

Eglise Saint-Julien d'Ath

22 August 2014

Spoiler: A Local Mystery… And A Calling

Father Jacques leaned back at the desk he was borrowing from his grandnephew, brow creased in thought as he considered the ancient book that sat in front of him. It was one of the oldest books he'd ever worked with, and the latex gloves he was wearing to protect the yellowed and faded pages weren't the most comfortable. But it had been well worth the trouble to dig it out of the parish records over the last weeks while he puzzled over the interesting woman who God had sent his way after Mass.

A woman who was someone desperately in need of God's assistance, considering the abridged version of the confession she had given him before they realized that she would need special long term care. She had mentioned that her family's estate had a family chapel that Count Hippolyte had closed. So at his prompting, she had written the Bishop to formally request for it to be reopened to serve the clear needs of these sheep in need of a Shepherd. A point that he had made with his own letter to Bishop Guy with his observations.

Now as he waited for the response of his superiors, he performed his own research for the spiritual battle that he could sense ahead of him. Finding the relevant church records with his nephew's help had been quite revealing and well worth the trouble, he thought as his eyes returned to the parchment page that had been the first thing that he had noticed.

For there, on the page in front of him, was an interesting bit of evidence.

A baptismal record for Eglise Saint-Julien d'Ath. From the early 18th century and one of the earliest entries in the ledger. And one that did not have the small cross marked next to all of the other names to indicate that they were deceased and had joined the Faith Penitent or Faith Triumphant.

He had examined the page minutely through a magnifying glass, and saw nothing to indicate that there ever had been such a mark. He'd then gone through the stack of ledgers into the early 20th century before giving up. There was no death record, no funeral record. But there were donation records through to near the end of the 19th century. Intermittent, to be fair, with large gaps in between, but there. Including two substantial donations shortly after the First World War in 1919 to repair damage to the church and care for those families harmed in the fighting the week that the du Chasteler family's support of the Diocese of Ath had been renewed after Count Hippolyte's death in 1899 caused it to lapse. Then, there was a single very large one from just after the village's liberation during the Second World War for several local families who had lost loved ones to the German occupation.

All with the same name.

Colombe Jeanne d'Aubigny du Chastler.

A mystery, wrapped in an enigma, wrapped in a riddle. He thought wryly, chuckling slightly before looking up as his painfully young grandnephew Paul, his clerical collar so new it still squeaked if he moved too quickly, tapped on the frame of the door to the rooms he was loaning his great-uncle.

"Letter for you from the Bishop, Father" the young priest said, crossing the threshold and holding it out to the far older priest.

Father Jacques, however, had risen to his feet, eyes twinkling a little as the younger priest flushed at the show of respect. After all, as the pastor of this parish he technically outranked a retired old chaplain! Yet he knew full well that the youngster was remembering all the times when he'd bounced on Father Jacques' knee as a lad, or had discussed philosophy and theology as a seminarian when the elder priest had lectured at his seminary.

"My thanks, Father." he replied, taking the envelope with one tremulous hand. He mentally sighed at yet one more sign of his age. Unfortunately priests were as susceptible to the ravages of time as any other mortal.

"I took the liberty of slitting it open for you." Paul said, his own good humor coming to his rescue.

"I am perfectly capable of handling a letter opener still, young man." Jacques grumbled, sitting back down with a creak of old bones. "I am even still allowed to use a knife and fork at mealtime."

"You know what the doctors…" Paul began. He never got the chance to finish that thought.

"THIS for doctors." Father Jacques replied, thrusting the envelope into the air briefly for emphasis, before sliding the folded vellum papers out and leaning back to read them. At least his vision wasn't fading like the rest of him, thank God for small mercies. "And the same for mandatory retirement. Bahh." he continued grumbling.

His grandnephew, well used to the old man's occasional cantankerous humors, didn't press the point.

"No death certificates on file… no death notices… " Jacques muttered as he read the letter. "Directed to investigate… blah blah… accepted… yada yada... " he refolded the papers and his eyes twinkled with a bit of mischief. "You do know that I was one of Bishop Guy's teachers in seminary, yes?" his expression morphed in an amused smirk at the expression on his junior's face.

"Yes, Father, I know." his nephew replied patiently. "And he was one of your favorite students and he studied hard and the rest." His own eyes matched his uncles. "You enjoyed bringing him up only every single time I got frustrated in seminary."

"An old man is allowed to regale his juniors with tales." Jacques replied mildly. "I do believe that I will need to make an appointment to an apparently ruined castle nearby. How interesting."

His nephew chuckled. "The one out in the woodlot of Moulbaix then? Aren't you a little old to show your courage to the local girls by spending the afternoon in Evil Count Hippolyte's Haunted Woods?" Paul paused and spoke more slowly. "I went in there on a dare as a boy once, and I don't know what happened in there, but I stumbled out ten minutes later as pale as new milk. I actually can't think of anyone who has poked around in there successfully. Anyone who I would believe if they told me, that is. Jacques Marcel doesn't count."

"I did the same, actually, when I was young. You lasted longer than I did." Fr Jacques replied, chuckling. "Perhaps…" he shrugged, looking up at his young nephew. "Interesting, is it not?"

"Well, it is. The rumor I remember from Grandmother has it that even the German authorities steered clear of those woods thanks to the ghost of the Evil Count." His nephew paused and gave a suspicious look at his uncle. "You know something I don't."

"I know many things." Jacques replied with a slight chuckle. "You'll be pleased to know that the Bishop agrees with me that you need to know of some of them."

He folded his hands on the desk and nodded to the chair across from him. "Take a seat, wouldn't want you to do yourself a mischief while we speak."

"Now I KNOW you're up to something, Uncle!" His nephew replied as he took the offered seat.

"How did that old American television show put it… ahh yes… " Fr Jacques smirked, an expression he'd match against Connie's smirks anyday. "The world is odder than you know…"
---------------------------------

23 August 2014
Spoiler: A Trip To Moulbaix

A cool breeze filled the air on a rather lovely sunny day as Fr Jacques waited in front of the old church, his valise beside him containing some… canonical essentials for what he was about to engage in. Behind him the bells chimed the hour and as if summoned by the brassy note a classic Mercedes limousine from before the Second World War came around the corner and came to a halt precisely in front of the old priest.

And a veritable ebon-skinned mountain of a man stepped out of the driver's seat in a chauffeur's uniform that was threatening to rip apart at the seams as it contained him. Fr. Jacques twitched one eyebrow slightly in a bit of internal amusement as passers by gawked at both the car and the gigantic African man who strode around to open the passenger door with all the aplomb and dignity of a master butler.

A velvety-smooth basso profundo voice rumbled its way from somewhere deep within the giant's chest. "Your ride, Father." in a moderately accented French.

"My thanks, my son." he replied with a faint bow before entering the limo with as much dignity as an old man with a stiff back and sore knees could muster.

The seats were sinfully soft though, and well-polished leather. He raised a mental eyebrow at the clear modern electronics of the sound system. Meanwhile the chauffeur -- Kasuyu -- bowed to him as he took his seat. "You're welcome, Sir." he rumbled like distant thunder before closing the door. The African then got into the driver's seat and put the car into gear.

The ride to Moulbaix passed in companionable silence, with the purr of the well-maintained motor quite soothing as the familiar fields and farms passed by.

Fr. Jacques raised an eyebrow as they turned onto the Rue du Chasteler that ran through the village of Moulbaix into the haunted woodlot that held the ruined castle that had given the village its name.

His eyes widened in shock as the moss-covered granite wall that had stood at the end of the short 'dead end' lane into the woodlot since his parents were children shimmered like it was an image in the mist. It suddenly revealed that it was actually a wrought-iron gate that silently opened for the car to pass through it along a gravel driveway that continued the lane further into the trees.

As they passed the gate he felt a definite feeling of discomfort and dread urging him to flee for his life, but that impulse suddenly subsided as quickly as it arose once they passed the barrier. He noticed the eyes of the chauffeur watching him for any signs of visible distress and he faintly smiled and shook his head. After all, he had heeded his sainted mother's warnings, and had eaten all his vegetables for dinner last night rather than risk Evil Count Hippolyte kidnapping him.

Then his eyes widened as the castle at the end became visible. It was four stories tall and built from pale tan stone with crenelated battlements, and clearly extremely well-kept as opposed to the haunted ruin of local legend and childhood tests of courage. A large set of white steps led up to the wooden double doors, where Colombe stood waiting for him at the top of the stairs.

Unlike when he had seen her in the church of Ath wearing modern clothing, she was dressed in an emerald green ruffled sundress from a bygone era, similar to those which he remembered his grandmother wearing. Seemingly out of place, she had a gold-hilted rapier belted to her waist with a well worn leather sword belt. Colombe was speaking to a dark haired Asian woman her apparent age who was dressed in a white silk long-sleeved blouse and red ankle-length skirt with a sheathed katana in a sash at her waist and her hair tied in white and red ribbons. Memories of a port visit to Yokosuka three decades before awoke in him, and he thought to himself, 'a Japanese shrine maiden?'

The car stopped in front of the steps and Kasuyu got out to hold the door for him. As the African exited the car, Colombe turned from her conversation with the Asian woman and walked down the stairs to greet him. "Father Jacques, thank you and thank the Church for responding to my request for a family priest," she said, as she curtsied formally to him. "Welcome to Moulbaix."

Somewhere in the distance, a piano filled the air with a beautiful song.

The old priest levered himself out of the sinful, must remember it is sinful comfort of the limousine and straightened with a rather obvious creak of old bones forced to obey the iron will of an old man. "My thanks for the invitation, Milady." he replied mildly, then turned his attention briefly to Kasuyu. "And again, my thanks for the ride, my son." he reached out one hand in benediction, a murmured prayer on his lips, before turning once more to his hostess.

"Thank you Sir." The African rumbled before looking at Colombe. "Is there anything else, Mistress?"

Colombe shook her head as the Asian woman walked down the stairs gracefully. "Non, Kasuyu. Just park the car and I'll help bring the apples in." She responded, then gave the Asian a warm smile. "I would like to introduce my good friend Masamune-no-Tokunotakai, Father Jacques. The rest of the household is taking advantage of the break in the weather to plunder my apple orchard. I trust you have no objections to fresh apples as part of the meal tonight?"

His eyes twinkled and his lips quirked. "And if I did, would the Evil Count Hippolyte come and kidnap me, as my mother warned me when I was small?" He gave a considering look to the Asian woman, then bowed slightly and in heavily accented Japanese addressed her. "Greetings, miko."

Toku bowed in turn and responded in less accented French. "Greetings to you, Father. I am a priestess of Hachiman-no-kami. As Co-chan told me, you have some experience with the arcane?"

Meanwhile at the mention of Hippolyte, Colombe's face froze momentarily and pain lurked deep in her eyes before she spoke in a somewhat controlled voice. "You may be assured that my grandnephew has been dealt with and Toku cleansed his spirit's filth from the castle." She sighed deeply, "I shouldn't be so surprised that his name was used to scare small children full of mischief, I suppose. Trust me when I say that the man deserved that evil reputation and more." Next to Colombe, Tokunotakai's lips thinned in her serene face.

Fr Jacques hadn't missed any nuance of Columbe's reaction, and bowed his head slightly in acknowledgement of that momentary flash of pain. "Your French is far better than my poor Japanese." he instead said to Toku, switching back to French. "And I'm afraid my comparative theology classes are far enough behind me that I am not as familiar with the kami as, perhaps, I should be."

Toku smiled serenely. "It is appreciated that you made the attempt, Father. To satisfy your thirst for learning, Hachiman-no-kami is the Protector of Warriors. Co-chan and I are his Blades who have been sworn to fight evil and injustice in this world. Agents of a higher power as it stands. I would enjoy discussing matters of theology and philosophy with you at your convenience, since there are many paths to the Truth and one truly never stops learning the Way toward it." Colombe tensed subtly as Toku spoke about Hachiman.

Fr Jacques nodded, smiling slightly, catching the subtle tensing readily from a lifetime of caring for his various flocks. "The first commandment merely commands that we follow no gods before God." he said mildly, not going into all of the… fraught… theology on the topic. "And I am hardly an expert in ontological hair splitting about the meaning of each jot and tittle."

"That is good to hear," Toku smiled happily and waved a hand. His valise suddenly felt a quarter its weight. "Please, allow me. After all, we should assist the aged for they have wisdom to share. Isn't that right, Co-chan?" Toku's eyes twinkled as Colombe gave her a fond look then mock-scowled.

"Just for that, I won't go easy in our next sparring match, To-chan!" Colombe said to the Japanese miko, then turned to Father Jacques. "Would you prefer to view the chapel and your rooms or meet my daughters and the rest of the household first?" Colombe asked.

The old priest smiled slightly. "Duty before pleasure, my child." he replied with a slight nod of his head towards where he could see faint signs of activity in the orchards. "The chapel has waited this long, and Our Lord is infinitely patient."

His smile then morphed into a smirk worthy of his long association with the antics of shipgirls, not to mention the antics of Connie. "So, please do this old man the honor of introducing him to your family."

Colombe gave a matching smug smirk and Toku sighed inaudibly and shook her head. "Oh certainly, Father! If you would be so kind as to follow me? I shall be happy to answer any questions you have about my home and my family while we walk to the orchard." Her smile got wistful. "I have a soft spot for the fruits of this orchard, for I was present when the trees were planted. I remember giving my delighted Papa the first ripe apples that they ever bore for his table as a girl." The smug smirk came back with a vengeance. "Along with the scolding and punishment for climbing his trees to pick the apples instead of being at deportment and etiquette training with my younger sister Marie-Claire."
 
The Bells of Ath 3
Yellowhammer

A.N. -- As promised, here's part 3 of Bells of Ath. The Priest meets the other problem charge put into his care and Best Piano. Sorry about that pancreas, Fr Jacques! Again, I'd like to give credit where credit is due, Fr Jacques is the OC of Sunhawk2 and he writes him magnificently.

The Bells of Ath (III)

Castle Moulbaix

22 August 2014


Colombe spoke to Father Jacques as they walked around to the back of the castle. "I suppose I should explain to you that, in fact, none of us who live in this castle are human. I am the avatar of my enchanted rapier's true body, hence my longevity." She tapped the hilt of the antique rapier at her side with her forefinger and then continued. "To-chan is the spirit of her Masamune katana and her avatar has been manifested just under a century more than mine has been. My two daughters living in Moulbaix are also the spirits of enchanted items as is my oldest who is an Auror, a magical policeman, in Canada. My middle daughter Claire is the spirit of the piano that you are hearing while my youngest daughter Ehren is the spirit of," Colombe took a deep breath before concluding, "her SS-Ehrendolch dagger body." Father Jacques had a thoughtful look at his hostess' explanation.

"I am also housing a family of Japanese refugees fleeing the persecution of the magical government." Toku looked like she had just bitten a lemon as Colombe's explanation continued to the description of the Japanese refugees. "Miho and her younger sister Misaki are Jorogumo, while they adopted Chihiro, who is an orphaned Tanuki. Ahh, two spiders and a raccoon-dog Yokai respectively. Finally, Kasuyu and Nongqawuse are the spirits of some magical African artifacts I acquired in my travels; an axe and a bracelet respectively."

Fr. Jacques nodded along with the explanation, listening with a placid expression on his elderly face. "I see, my child." he said in his soft voice. "I see… so much of God's creation is unknown to us, it is good to see that there is yet more to heaven and earth than any of us dreamt in our philosophy." And he even managed to say that with a perfectly straight face.

Colombe chuckled, "Sadly, while Hamlet's fatal flaw is his indecision, I have never been accused of that."

Toku said in a sweet, quiet, humble voice with steel deep under the velvety calm. "Yes, because they are always accusing you of leaping before you look when injustice appears, Co-chan." Butter would not have melted in her mouth as she gave another serene smile.

"Not my fault!" Colombe automatically replied with a grin and no heat in her mock-angry tone.

"Twenty-one books about your exploits in my library back at Tsurugaoka Hachimangū (Toku's Shrine) say differently, Co-chan." Toku retorted in her calm sweet voice as her serene smile grew wider. Colombe chuckled, licked a fingertip, and then slashed it through the air to mark a point scored before returning a verbal riposte.

As the two bantered, Fr Jacques merely smiled slightly. "There are far worse sins than excessive zeal in pursuing justice." he pointed out mildly. "Better to need to rein in an eager crusader than to prod a sleeper awake."

He paused again, briefly, then looked over at his companions. "So long, of course, as one takes that critical moment to consider if what they are doing is indeed righting wrongs, and not merely indulging one's own prejudices."

Both the sword spirits nodded in agreement. Then Colombe spoke, "Fortunately, or perhaps not in my case, I have rarely had that problem. One of the enchantments I was born with has the side effect of steering my path into wrongs desperately needing to be righted. Suffice it to say, that I have had a very active three centuries and have seen much more of human and supernatural evils than I ever wished to as a girl." Toku nodded in commiseration with a compassionate expression.
---------------

As they rounded the corner of the castle another group of figures came into view. A beautiful grand piano was sitting in a gazebo inside a small Anglo-Chinese landscape garden with the morning sunlight flashing from the piano's ornate gilding and rich hardwood. A dark-haired brunette young woman in a ruby-red dress and a slender blond in a jet black modest dress were playing a lively duet on it.

Meanwhile, in the orchard that wrapped around the far side of the pond, a group of workers were picking apples from the trees and placing them into floating baskets. The blond at the piano had a twin in T-shirt and shorts who was standing on the ground directing the movements of the floating baskets and falling apples with movements of a wand in one hand. Above her head a pair of spider-women, one the size of a draft horse and another 'merely' the size of a very large dog were scurrying among the branches to pick the apples. A second girl with a bushy tail and furry ears was assisting them on the branches that would not bear their weight, periodically morphing from girl to a raccoon-like fox with a black mask on her face on the weakest branches.

Fr. Jacques didn't even blink an eyelash at the strangeness... at first. He'd met shipgirls, debated philosophy with a sasquatch who probably could have cosplayed as a thuggish Chewbacca and debated like an Oxford don. He'd conducted a baptism for a married couple who happened to be werewolves, and he'd conducted the funeral for a woman who'd been alive when the Declaration of Independence was being written. The spider women… Jorogumo… they almost caused him to pause, one eyebrow twitching a little, his lips quirking. Well, nothing in the Catechism forbids ministering to spider women, now does it...
Spoiler: Claire Meets Father Jacques

Colombe gave a very happy smile. "Claire is the brunette at her piano. Ehren is the blonde with multiple avatars out." The smile widened and filled with parental pride. "Ehren has been hard at work practicing that so she can send one to school this fall while keeping Claire company with the other."

Toku gave a small inward smile at the subtle signs of Father Jacques' shock, and then the smile became visible as Claire's head turned at the familiar voice.

"Mother! Toku! Who's your friend?" Claire said in a musical voice as she began to play a happy little welcoming piece of music. Beside her, the blond girl - Ehren - stood up, braced to attention, and gave a small cool smile and nod as they continued to walk toward the gazebo.

Colombe smiled happily at her daughters. "Claire, Ehren, please meet Father Jacques. I asked him to visit us to see about reopening the family chapel so he can serve as the family's priest. He knows about magic, so you don't need to hide from him."

Claire's shyly happy smile was filled with joy and excitement. Then she shimmered and a second avatar of her appeared on the bench where Ehren had been sitting. Then the piano's twin avatars began to play a truly sublime duet rendition of How Great Thou Art from memory.

Ehren clicked her heels together and sketched a half-bow as her mother and Father Jacques reached her. "It is a pleasure to meet you Father," she said in a coolly polite tone as she extended her hand when he reached her. Her French was slightly German-accented and her steel-blue eyes were calm and controlled, revealing almost nothing of her inward thoughts.

The old priest nodded to each of them, his eyes lighting up a bit at the truly beautiful music coming from the piano before he gently took the young dagger's hand in his own elderly one, his other hand extending and resting briefly on her brow in quiet benediction. "The pleasure is mine," he said, his lips twitching for a moment as he considered just how well this reserved young woman would clean up a poker table full of the worst card sharks on any of the bases he'd served at. "Friede sei mit dir."

Ehren gave a minute lip twitch for the barest instant, so fleeting that he was not sure if she had actually smiled. "Und euch, Freiden," she responded in German as she looked into his eyes. Her posture was stiff and erect, even a drill sergeant would find little to criticize with her military bearing. She looked to be a model soldier.

But her eyes, her haunted eyes had seen unspeakable horror too in the barely-glimpsed depths underneath the icy control locking the pain deep within her.

He had seen that expression before… he had seen it too often.

He hated that expression but to his everlasting sorrow he knew he would see it again.

Too old eyes in too young faces.

He hadn't forgotten that she was an SS dagger, he could see it in her crisp Teutonic bearing, sense it in her brittle Prussian exactitude forged by iron self-discipline. But he had met and ministered to a few Kriegsmarine U-Boat girls with the exact same bearing, the same eyes, the same brittleness when they stayed in Boston between patrols.

He had prayed that Colombe had been wrong when she spoke of her daughter's severe distress and need for salvation. But it was clear to him that here too was another lost and injured sheep needing the Good Shepherd to guide her back to His flock to be cared for and mended in spirit.
Spoiler: Father Jacques and Ehren

So he did what he did best.

He was a priest.

"So, Ehren is it?" he asked gently, calmly. "Perhaps you would do an old man the honor of introducing the others so that your Mutti can enjoy your sister's beautiful music?" He paused, "the long way around the pond though, so I can admire this beautiful garden. Also I confess curiosity about you and your family." Colombe gave him an approving smile and a nod.

"Jawohl, Father." She responded automatically as she offered her arm and began to walk with him down a garden path. Behind him, Claire's beautiful music serenaded them as Colombe and Toku sat on a bench to listen.

"I am Ehren du Chasteler, the youngest of Mutti's daughters. I do hope that you enjoy 'my sister's beautiful piano music', though." Her cool and precise voice grew subtly warmer as she escorted him past a trellis of pink, white, and red roses. "Claire will play any piece you care to name at the drop of a hat, even without being prompted." her voice turned dry as dust at the last and he chuckled in appreciation of her wit. "As for the others present outside now, Chihiro Arakaki - Chi-chan - is the Tanuki with the raccoon tail closest to us." She pointed to the Tanuki girl tossing apples into a floating basket with her paws as they walked toward the pond.

He took care to lean slightly upon the young lady's arm as they walked, subtly playing up his age and infirmity. "I must confess to being slightly jealous. Actually," he said with a rueful tone in his voice. "I would have loved to have had a musician half as skilled back when I served as a chaplain. Of course, I doubt the pianos available in the chapels on base would have been up to your sister's high standards. They were, after all, purchased from the lowest bidder."

Ehren gave another microscopic smile as she supported him easily. "Ahh, Claire would make any piano she played a happy one." Ehren had a definite undercurrent of warmth and love as she spoke about her sister. "She enjoys music in all its forms and in fact plays rock keyboard for the small family band that our cousin assembled. As for the Jorogumo assisting me in the harvest, Miho Fujii is the larger of the two, she is the adopted mother for her younger sister Misaki. They," Ehren's voice lost all warmth and was filled with an undertone of coldly implacable wrath, "escaped the Yokai Reserves where the Japanese government penned nonhumans such as them in like cattle..." The fury increased and was joined by a soul-deep disgust with hints of self-loathing and shame in her next hissed words. "...or Jews."

Fr Jacques was quiet, listening, letting his ears hear and his heart understand even as it wept for her.

Finally he spoke, squeezing her hand gently in reassurance as they continued their walk. "A wicked thing, and it is to your eternal credit that they are here, safe, happy… free." She nodded as her black mood lifted on the wings of Claire's song across the sunlit pond.

He stopped then, far enough away from the others that they could talk in relative privacy, and looked at her. "We are all sinners, Ehren du Chasteler. We have all failed. We have all done what we should not do, and not done what we should. At every Mass, we ask God and each other for forgiveness for our failings in confidence that our God forgives us. Even the great Saints of the Church, men and women of deep heavenly virtue, were sinners. And God still loves us. He still forgives us."

He paused then, looking deep into her eyes as she stared back with her normal cool reserve. "Let me tell you a story."

He gently urged her to continue walking with him and spoke as she did. "A man came to Jesus one night in his dreams, and said to Our Lord. 'Lord, take this cross from me, it is too heavy, I cannot bear it.', and Our Lord in his love and compassion took the man into a room that was filled with crosses, of all sizes and types, great crosses and small crosses. The man walked through the room, examining the crosses, and finally found one that was just right for him, and said to Our Lord. 'This one, this is the cross that I can bear.' And our Lord just smiled at him and replied 'That is the cross you came in with."

He stopped again, smiling as he spoke from the heart to her intent thoughtful face. "We all carry crosses, Ehren. But sometimes we pick up crosses that aren't ours, thinking that we need to punish ourselves all the more because of our perceived sin, our fault. But Our Lord said that his yoke was easy, his burden light. He will never burden you down with something you cannot bear." Another, longer, pause as droplets of cool living water fell on soil that had been tilled and seeded. "Carry your cross, Ehren, not the cross of the sins of others."

She listened in attentive silence, then nodded sharply. She half-turned to look at the small pond behind the castle and spoke quietly in a hushed, pain-filled whisper as she stood braced to attention. "I bear what I bear because I must, Father." Her words were a statement of fact.

He shook his head, interrupting her. "No, child, you mustn't. The sins of the father are not assessed against the child, nor the sins of the child against the father. If you walk the path of righteousness, keeping our Lord's commandments and precepts, and striving to ever do what is right and good, then that is all that is asked of any of us." he smiled then. "Think about it."

She gave him an unreadable look with her controlled, stoic face, then shook her head sharply. "You can't possibly understand," she said flatly, then gave a small, inaudible sigh. "I don't want to talk about it."

He nodded in acceptance of her words as they walked to get introduced to the others.

Faith, after all, was a mustard seed.
 
[Setgirls] Museum Musings (Revised)
KiMaSa

After some constructive criticism on the original piece, I have rewritten Museum Musings and combined it with a second related piece:

Museum Musings (Revised)

Having left Yokosuka unnoticed, at least so far as he knew, Severus Snape knew he had research to do before he could begin working on his new project. Enterprise was unique, even among her current company. While the setgirl of Nagato looked quite convincing, Enterprise simply could not ever pretend to be an aircraft carrier. Unique was not a bad thing but as he knew, alone could be very painful. So he began to wonder if there was any chance to fix that for her. So he started first with an abbreviated marathon of episodes, concentrating on those featuring other ships. Unfortunately, the other Constitution-class ships shown were re-uses of Enterprise's sets and their models where they existed were AMT model kits, cheaply bought, used and discarded.

The Klingon ship from the series lacked actual sets. Severus was pretty sure this would be a problem. The Romulan version of the ship did have sets but these were likely redresses, again, of Enterprise's own. And then there was the original Romulan ship. If he could find out what happened to the model, perhaps that was possible, although Snape thought it doubtful. He DID take away one reminder of logical wisdom he intended to employ at Hogwarts, suspecting that Potter had that cloak James used so often. "Whenever an object passes through it... Even an invisible one, it leaves a visible trail." Thank you, Mister Spock.

The Next Generation Enterprise was a possible choice for obvious reasons. DS9 and their Defiant, and Voyager were all possibles but less attractive because of the recentness would require more magical energy. The NX Enterprise seemed to be off the table because instead of a model, a physical thing, CGI had been used. The whereabouts of the sets, unknown. After study, the best choice seemed to be Enterprise herself, or rather the version built in 1979. The sets were in use for over twenty years and the filming model still existed.

Before he could do anything, he needed to find out just how those half-wit wizards in America had, if he understood correctly and he was certain he did, managed to summon Fair Enterprise in the first place. This meant a trip to America. There was a manageable time left in the season before school resumed. He merely stated to the rest of the faculty that he was 'working on a personal project', that was sufficient. It wasn't like anyone thought he might have any hobbies of his own, after all. But no one inquired beyond that.

Of course, the first stop was the Woolworth Building where officials politely inquired as to the reasons for his visit.

"Purely scholastic," he replied. Then he inquired about the break-in at the Smithsonian. "Just exactly who were they and what were they attempting to do?"

"Not 'do'... 'did' The weirdos said something about 'Praising the Great Bird of the Galaxy' and they freaking summoned a ship that wasn't even real! Bad enough all those real shipgirls running around, flaunting the Statute but these nuts had to summon a fake one! Somehow!" The MACUSA official scrutinized him with a frown.

"You aren't one of those 'freaks', are you?"

"'Freaks'?"

"Those... Trekkies."

"As I have said, my interest is purely scholastic. I suppose this 'shipgirl' has been safely locked away?"

"Hardly! They turned it over to the No-Maj Navy. Completely crazy!"

"Indeed. One certainly wonders what they could possibly do with such a thing."

"I have no idea."

"I see. Thank you for your time then. "

"Of course."

Taking his papers back from the customs officer, Snape left the Woolworth Building, contemplating how best to proceed. After a moment he decided that he would need to find an advocate for twelve clumsy fools facing charges from MACUSA authorities. He only hoped they had more in their brains than the other secretive group of morons he was forced to associate with.

He also hoped this would not get expensive. If so, then perhaps he would have to trade Lucius Malfoy a favor. He was a full-blown Warsie as Lucius had told him not so kindly, so long ago. The thought amused Severus. For if the Executor ever DID have a human form, Snape would bet money that she would look identical to Narcissa.

In the meantime, it was only fitting that he pay a visit to the Smithsonian, himself.

At last he stood in front of the display case that held the avatar of so many dreams. She really does look magnificent. He smiled slightly at precious memories. He had some idea as to figure out the rest of the story, he thought as he strolled out to head back home.




Spoiler

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The Bells of Ath 4
Yellowhammer

A.N. -- Well more Father Jacques. I have to say, this one is a doozy, you have been warned. As always, thanks a ton to my co writer Sunhawk2 for his writing of his OC Father Jacques who gave me the tools to allow a broken bird to start to mend.

(And now you know why Colombe and Ehren were so moved when one of Draco's daughters was named Helene)

The Bells of Ath (IV)

Castle Moulbaix

22 August 2014


After the apples were brought in with Kasuyu and the laconic form of Nongqawuse assisting the du Chastelers, Miho, Misaki, and Chihiro, Colombe turned to Father Jacques as she walked alongside him up the stairs to enter her castle now that he had been introduced to everyone. Behind them, Toku, Claire, and Ehren followed side by side.

"So, Father, what part do you wish to see first?" She asked as they stepped into the grand entrance hall.

"Oh, the chapel first." he said, smiling in appreciation at being asked.
Spoiler: Opening The Chapel

Colombe led the procession to their left and down a short hall to an inlaid oak double door showing the Resurrection in bold carvings. She paused and laid her hand upon the wood, bowing her head.

Toku placed a gentle hand on the rapier's shoulder and received a thankful smile. "Forgive me, just… memories. Memories of my youth." Colombe said quietly in a controlled voice before using a large antique bronze key to unlock the door.

Colombe pulled the door open and stepped inside, then blinked at an old stain on the stone threshold of the narthex. "Hmm, I don't remember that being here. It must have happened shortly before the chapel was closed in 1870 while I was away in the Franco-Prussian War. When I came back in 1871, Hippolyte told me that he had acted to shut the chapel." She said curiously, kneeling to take a closer look and then frowning at what she sensed.

Colombe scowled as she stood, her voice growing angrier under the control, "I trusted him, so thought little of it, especially with my injuries. After," her face grew dark and she breathed in and out harshly before continuing in a voice filled with old pain, "I realized the truth of his actions, I read his diaries and he hinted that he had had Father Pierre murdered for finding out too much. I would not be surprised; he was capable of that and far worse evils."

Colombe gestured briefly as she spoke in Latin under her breath. A pale soft white radiance glowed from the threshold and the door. "The wards that I and others put into place to protect and preserve the Lord's House over the centuries are still active, though." She spoke half to herself as she carefully examined the spellwork that was now visible. "I actually haven't been inside here since it was closed in 1870 and Hippolyte took control of the key. When I did my regular maintenance of the castle in the past, I merely empowered and strengthened these wards and the linked preservation spells that Papa requested of me to place inside the stones of his chapel. The spell matrix's design allows me to monitor and repair the normal wear and tear that the passage of time causes these spells from a hidden sigil carved in the stone wall of the castle just outside this door. The spells should have kept the contents preserved and undamaged by moth and rust." She explained to the curious cleric and Toku with a small smile and a wink before another gesture caused the light to seemingly vanish and she stepped aside for the others.

Ehren stood stoically next to Claire, who had a very compassionate look on her face, as her mother talked about Hippolyte.

"Man's inhumanity to man has been with us since the beginning." Fr Jacques said quietly. He didn't go further than that, knowing that there was a time and a place for giving counsel and wisdom, and a time for other things. And this was too joyful a moment to darken with grappling with dark things from the past.

"But how perfectly lovely a sacred space." he stepped through the narthex and into the chapel, spreading his arms in joy. As he did so he just happened to stop in a spot illuminated only by the sunlight streaming in through the stained glass.

Spoiler: The Chapel of Moulbaix
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One could be forgiven if they didn't share the sentiment, everything was covered by sheets including the paintings on the walls and the statuary, but the rough shape was visible along with the rich woods of the floor and the crisp colors of the magically preserved stained glass windows that let in the bright light of a beautiful day.

The old priest set his valise down beside the door and began bustling about, much to the amusement of those trailing behind.

"If one of you would be so kind as to take some notes?" he asked over his shoulder as he cleared the dust cloth from the old altar.

"Jawohl, Father!" Ehren snapped out with a click of her heels, summoning a notebook and pen from… someplace. She then assumed her best studious and professional attitude while Claire giggled musically, Toku smiled, and Colombe gave a fond shake of the head with a small grin.

Fr Jacques simply nodded. "Excellent. Many thanks, my child." he replied with a smile in his voice and a twinkle in his eyes. "Firstly, a replacement presence candle... Very likely new altar candles… will need to obtain fresh chrism, catechumen, and oil for the anointing of the sick." He paused, pursed his lips, then nodded "Hymnals and missals as well." he concluded.

"Presence Candle, ja! Altar Candles, ja! Chrism, Catechumen, and oil for the anointing of the sick, ja! Hymnals and missals, ja!" Ehren snapped out in counterpoint to the instructions, making the notes in her precise and neat hand.

Meanwhile, Claire began to pull down the dust covers from the paintings and pews as her mother folded them. The piano then paused and blinked at a set of crude numbers carved into the back of one of the pews. "What's this?" she asked curiously. Colombe leaned in to look and then made a curious choking sound.

Colombe blushed as everyone stared at her. "I was nine years old and got bored during the sermon so I started to add up some of the numbers in my missal," she explained with a sheepish look on her face, "Papa tanned the seat of my breeches after the service too." She finished.

The old priest chuckled, looking over at Colombe, "Wouldn't be the last time that happened. I learned how to give shorter sermons after the third or fourth time the sailors I was preaching to started comparing tattoos rather than listening." he commented wryly. "I hope that I've managed to make my sermons interesting enough that the pews will be spared future mathematics."

Ehren gave a lip twitch. "Jawohl! Shorter interesting sermons!" she barked out as she faked writing that as a note as her mother shot her an exasperated look.

Claire giggled at her sister's words and then headed for the bulky dust covering hanging to the right of the altar. She pulled it down and her eyes got very wide and round at the sight revealed. "Mother!!" Claire squeaked out eagerly, turning to give Colombe a lethal dose of Pleading Piano Puppydog Eyes. "It's a cute little pipe organ!"

Colombe gestured at the small pipe organ. "Oui, it is." She turned to the smiling priest. "I fear your assistant handling the dust covers being removed has just been abducted by the Angel of Music for the moment."

Claire seated herself on the bench and tapped a key. She then shuddered at the horribly out of tune sound that it gave.

The elderly priest winced at the sound even as Claire wailed about it being so sadly out of tune. "Thankfully I know that the diocese has an organ repair contractor under contract for such things." he said soothingly.

"Jawohl! Repairing of the Pipe Organ. Sehr Dringlichkeitsantrag!"(Very urgently requested) Ehren snapped out in her best Prussian Junior Officer voice while Claire's tears about how much a tragedy that this beautiful pipe organ lost its voice subsided.

Fr Jacques simply smiled and nodded. "Would it be a safe assumption that the sacristy is behind this door?" he asked Colombe, gesturing to the door on the opposite side of the altar from the pipe organ.

"Yes it is, Father." Colombe replied as she walked to him with Toku and Ehren in tow after the last of the dust sheets were removed and folded. "Claire, can you be a dear and run these dust cloths to the laundry hamper to be cleaned?"

"But Mother!" Claire pouted, looking up from a sheaf of old sheet music that she had found by the bench. Ehren's lips twitched at the byplay and Toku's serene smile widened minutely.

Claire then scuffed a foot as Colombe gave her a firm look. "All right then." She muttered before hurrying off on the errand… with sheet music in hand.

With a chuckle, Fr Jacques smiled at the piano spirit and then followed Colombe through the door and into the sacristy beyond. His lips twitched a bit as he examined the small room when his keen eyes spotted the subtle signs of a priest hole concealed in the floor. He immediately stepped over to a small sink that had two basins, the one on the right looking quite normal, the one on the left covered with a solid cover, and attempted to lift the cover, finding it locked. He then pursed his lips and started rummaging through the cabinets. "There should be… a ha!" he found the tiny key and unlocked the cover, revealing a second basin. "Could you verify that this drain isn't connected to any sewer or septic tank, but rather drains directly to the earth?"

Colombe nodded, "Of course, Father." She concentrated and then spoke "Expecto Patronem!" A glowing white dove formed in her cupped palm and flew down the drain as she closed her eyes. "Straight into the stone culvert outside the walls, Father," she said a minute later when she opened them, "just like it should have been in the original plans. The castle's renovation and reconstruction under Hippolyte in 1889 did not change that."

"Excellent." He glanced over at Toku and Ehren who were looking curiously at the basin. "This is the basin used to cleanse the vessels used during Holy Communion. Therefore, when they are cleansed after mass there is a high possibility of fragments of sanctified hosts to be on them. Therefore, as even the tiniest particle of the host is believed to be the whole Body, Spirit and Divinity of our Lord, and thus it would be highly inappropriate for it to enter the sewers or such, yes?"

Tokunotakai nodded in approval. "It is very important to preserve the purity and sanctity of the divine, yes." She said with a gentle smile.

"Indeed." he replied with a smile at the Shinto priestess. "Ehren, please add a dedicated hamper for the purificators to the list." he paused, pursing his lips as he spotted the locked cabinet. "I'm trying to remember if they used large and small purificators before Vatican II in this area."

"Sadly, I cannot help you, Father." Colombe admitted. "My brothers would have known when they served in their turn as acolytes, but they are long dead."

"Dedicated hamper for purificators, ja!" Ehren snapped out and her pen hovered over the next line.

"I believe that this is the linen cabinet." he said, checking the latch to find that it was indeed locked. "Do you happen to have the key for it?"

Colombe examined the cabinet and her eyebrows raised. "Someone reinforced the preservation wards on it when the chapel was closed." She spoke absently to herself and visibly thought, drumming her fingers on her hilt. "I think I remember what it looked like for a Summoning Charm…." She closed her eyes and then gestured. "Accio Keyring!"

With a flash, a small brass keyring with three old keys appeared in her hand. "Here, Father, I believe this is it." She said after picking out one of them.

He nodded and unlocked the cabinet with it, his eyes widening as he realized that beyond the preservation charms it had been significantly magically enlarged inside. "Curious… well, that is one mystery solved. Please add large purificators to the list, Ehren. And… what is…." He spoke to himself as he examined the contents.
Spoiler: A Sister's Love

He moved aside the vestments to reveal a hanging subdivider with additional preservation charms gleaming from its surface. He opened it to reveal an extremely ornate woman's gown made from richly embroidered creamy satin silk that looked like it belonged 300 years in the past.

Spoiler: Marie-Claire's Wedding Day
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Colombe gasped in shock. "Marie-Claire's wedding dress!" she whispered as tears formed in her eyes. "I was her Maid of Honor that day in 1726..." She reached in and touched the fabric gently, hesitantly.

As her fingers caressed her sister's dress, there was a flash of magic.

A handwritten letter addressed to her fell from the dress to the floor of the linen cabinet.

Colombe picked up the sealed letter with a shaking hand while her eyes filled with deep emotion.

She slowly unfolded the yellowed parchment after breaking the crimson sealing wax stamped with the familiar coat of arms of a long-dead Franco-Belgian noblewoman. Her younger sister Marie-Claire's coat of arms.

Her crystal-blue eyes widened as she read the faded but legible still handwritten words. Words written in a beautiful flowing 18th Century Rhonde cursive script by the hand that had learned how to read and write alongside her.

Spoiler: Text Of The Letter

August 11th, 1789

To my flying dove, from your caged songbird,

I have had a recurring premonition that no child of my body shall survive to inherit this dress, so I shall leave it for you, my beloved sister. I humbly request that when true love finally finds you and yours, that you wear it upon the happiest day of your life as I have done. I fear my hopes and prayers to stand alongside you upon that day as you stood with me are in vain. Therefore, I shall be present in spirit as you stood beside me in body as I entered wedded bliss.

I feel my death calling me to join our Papa, so I shall finish with perhaps my final thoughts that I may share with you.

God has truly blessed me to have been granted an older sister such as you. I forgive you for continuing on when I am no more, and all your transgressions against me. Mourn me as we have mourned our Papa, yes, but know that what approaches for me shall never harm my love for you. One day we shall be reunited in eternal glory with each other and Papa.

I close with my daily prayer that you shall find your absent father to mend the hole in your heart.

With all my love,

Marie-Claire Helene du Chasteler de Bury et de Bocarme


Salt tears filled Colombe's vulnerable eyes, causing the handwritten words to dance and waver and blur in this final message.

A final message of love and understanding that had been penned while the final grains of sand in the hourglass slowly fell for her beloved little sister.

Her beloved little sister whose murder before her horrified eyes during the French Revolution had split Colombe's heart in twain with the fall of the guillotine blade as they saw each other for the last time at their final parting.

The final parting of their shared intertwined paths through life that had sent one sister to an unmarked mass grave, and sent the other to continue on alone as she became a hero -- swearing upon her sundered and bleeding heart to do battle to her utmost limits of body, mind, will, and soul against the Evil she now perceived clearly -- in that searing instant when they had both first truly experienced the bitter fruits of man's inhumanity to man.

The letter slowly fell to the floor as the callused quavering hand holding it, scarred by centuries of wandering, suffering, and conflict since that day, lost all its strength.

Colombe wept uncontrollably while Toku and Ehren hugged her, joined by Claire as the piano returned from her errand. Comforting as best they could with tears in their own eyes the hero who fought the good fight alongside them while Colombe remembered the loved one who she had failed to save. Her first -- and perhaps greatest -- failure that had caused her to fight to try to save who she could in a fruitless, impossible, desperate attempt to make good this loss.

Fr Jacques bowed his head in silent prayer as the family before him comforted each other, a silent prayer for the soul of a woman over two centuries departed, and a prayer for those who mourned her on this day.

A.N. -- Far wiser men than I have defined the story that we are telling here.

Everything in this world will pass away. In Eternity only Love will remain.-- Pope Benedict XVI

Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage -- Laozi
 
[Summer Harvest Trip] Animal Watching with Harry & Kensho
Harry Leferts

Holding a glossy red fruit between her clawed fingers, Taiyang hummed a bit before slowly pushing it between her lips and then biting down. For a few moments, she chewed just as slowly, thoughtfully, and then spat out the pit and swallowed the flesh. Then, she gave a small nod with a smug smile on her face, "Quite delicious, these European cherries! Much more sweeter and larger than the ones that I am used to as well, Mikon!'

More than a little amused as she walked past, Goldie simply nodded as she dumped a basketful of cherries into the container being used for them, "Indeed, they are! Umu, I remember some soldiers in the Roman Legions enjoying such fruits as well on long marches."

Just humming a little, the Dao nodded some, "True, an army forges on it's stomach, though perhaps it may be less so today than before." Pausing, Taiyang looked towards the blonde sword spirit, "Hmm... you do seem quite loyal to the Potter family, is there more to such a story than them rescuing you from the Goblins?"

Glancing at her, Goldie had a slight smile before she lowered her voice, "There are many reasons. But... there is one in particular though the Praetor does not know, nor do the others."

Eyebrow raised, Taiyang hummed a little, "Is he related to your first Master? The Great Caeser?"

Lightly chuckling, the Roman Blade shook her head, "Nay, he is not. But... there is a relationship, one that I sensed when Geoffrey Potter picked up my blade. For my memories are long indeed, and I remember my Imperator having a young, Roman boy at his side. One whom was tasked with keeping my blade sharp, and helping the Imperator put on his armour. Geoffrey... shared blood with him, I could tell." Looking out onto the land around them, Goldie took a deep breath, "He is long since bones and dust, but he served my Imperator well. Thus, I serve his well now."

Thoughtful, Taiyang tapped her chin in thought as she looked at Goldie, seeing another part of the ancient sword now.

Slowly, she gave a nod as she also looked out onto the orchard where various people were working at harvesting the cherries. Not just Harry and the other teens, but also the shipgirls. In various trees, one could see fairies having set up a pulley system to raise and lower buckets which they filled with fruits as they scurried among the branches. Slowly, but surely, filling up the various containers being used to transport them back to the manor for processing.

But what caught Taiyang's eyes were the other members of the Potter Armory, joining in with the harvesting with smiles and chuckles of their own. From Dracul using her shaft to allow for some of the teens sitting on it to reach branches to pick fruit from, to Vala humming some song as she plucked ripe fruit from where they hung. Though the foxy Dao had to blink as Catherine walked up to one tree, knocked on the trunk, and softly spoke to it... right before a mass of cherries fell out of said tree much to the confusion of everyone else.

Eyebrows furrowing, the Dao frowned, "How...?"

Amused at the expressions that had gotten, Goldie chuckled and patted her on the shoulder, "It is best not to ask, my friend. Just know that it is Cathy and that is all, Umu!"

Only nodding, despite her confusion, Taiyang looked back at Goldie with a thoughtful look on her face, "You know... I heard the one named Juuchi speak of what she would do if she caught the one named Peter. And I know what I might do, as my Master is quite... upset... with him. But what about you or the others?"

Rubbing her chin, the Roman sword hummed a bit, "We each have our own thoughts on what to do with the traitor to our family. For he was treated as family by them, and yet ended up stabbing them in the back like a spineless coward." Goldie's eyes flashed and yet darkened for a moment before going back to normal, "Some are fairly simple, Dracul mentioned draining him of his blood, Bill has mentioned simply finding a tree and some rope, while Sabah and Andraste mentioned that they have a number of poisons. Vala, I believe, mentioned the blood eagle while Big Iron and Amalie wish to just shoot him. And Nightbane? He mentioned just feeding him to the Monster on the Meuse."

Eyebrow raised in amusement, Taiyang glanced at the others, "I see... and while I can understand what Juuchi might do, I take it that Catherine would do something different from what I can understand?"

With a chuckle, Goldie gave her a cold smile, "Catherine would forgive him... which, perhaps, would be the worst possible thing from her. As it would drive the Rat to the depths."

Head tilted to the side as she considered that, the other sword spirit nodded before pausing, "What about Tsukiakari? I take it that she has her own ideas?"

For the first time in the conversation, Goldie looked away, "Ah, well... Tsukiakari is... interesting in that way. I am Roman, and yet I find myself impressed with some of the ideas that she has come up with. Very... impressed."

Cocking an eyebrow, Taiyang considered asking for more details, but decided that it would be better not to. Then, she tilted her head a little, "And you?"

A frown on her face, the Roman sighed and shook her head, "Ah, that is complicated as some methods are out of my hands. While I do not follow the diety that Catherine does, I do respect her and thus crucifixion is out as is burning due to what happened to her Master. Normally, I would then follow the normal methods for Patricide, but it would be cruel to the animals and dogs are quite well liked in this era. Thus, I could not wrap him in a burlap sack with a rabid dog, vipers, a cock, and the like before throwing it into a river."

Intrigued, the Dao rubbed her chin, "So what would you do?"

The smile that appeared on Goldie's face was not nice at all, "Well, did you know that there are spells that prevent an Animagus from returning to their true form? I would find a large cauldron..." Spreading her arms, she continued, "And then cast the spell on the traitor before throwing him into it with one of those centipedes in Japan, the Mukade. Truly, a Roman way of dealing with such a creature as he."

Right then, a bright smile lit up Taiyang's face, "Oh, I quite like that idea..."

Some distance away, Natsumi blinked and looked over to where Taiyang had a gleeful look on her face as she talked with Goldie as the two went back to where they had been picking cherries, 'Should I ask what she is so happy about?'

From deep within the back of her mind, Tamamo spoke up, 'No, it is best that you do not.' A sigh then escaped her, 'Though I am quite happy with how our Harry's home here looks. It is quite nice.'

Bemused, the two tailed Kitsune continued plucking cherries, 'Because of the size of the property? The food that is grown here? Or the home itself with how the inside looks?'

Much to her amusement, Tamamo's answer was simple, 'Yes.' After a few moments, she continued, 'I will state that I quite enjoy the inside of our Harry's manor. The wood is very nice as is the furniture. Though, perhaps, we should see what sort of furniture we can get for his room as we shall share it during visits.'

Lightly blushing, Natsumi only nodded some, 'Well, Harry-Chan does have a selection of furniture from China and Japan in the shed...'

That only got her a hum from the ancient vixen.

Not even a few minutes later, their attention was caught as Harry let out a laugh and turned to see him shaking his head in amusement, "Kenshō, what are you doing?"

Said blade was crouched and looked over her shoulder with a blink and a large smile, "I'm just following this toad, Master! He's bounce-bouncing along!" Those close enough could see that, sure enough, there was a toad on the ground in front of Kenshō. After a few moments, it did a few hops and the Kogatana spirit followed, "Ribbit! Ribbit! Come on, Mister Toad! Ribbit!"

Unable to help himself, Harry started laughing as he facepalmed, "Kenshō, leave the poor fellow alone. He's probably out for a snack."

Tilting her head to the side, Kenshō considered that before nodding and waving to the toad, "Okay! Bye, Mister Toad!" She then turned and began to hop back towards Harry, "Ribbit! Ribbit!"

Of course, that only got more smiles and laughter from the others. Especially when she proceeded to snatch some cherries from Harry's basket and gobble them down with a grin despite Harry playfully scolding her. A sudden shout made everyone turn to Yae who had facepalmed. Something that made Harry raise an eyebrow, "Something wrong, Yae-San?"

Shoulders slumped a bit, the Kendoka nodded, "Hai... one of my cherries just got stolen."

About to ask, Harry opened his mouth only to pause as he caught sight of the thief. Lips twitching, he coughed some, "Well... I think that our friend has been hanging around you for some time watching. And you didn't see an issue with tossing him some of your sandwich earlier.'

Pout on her face, Yae made a motion with her hand, "But I didn't expect him to steal some of my cherries, gozaru!"

Leaning against her true self, Dracul chuckled a little, "Well, he wanted a little bread and no cheese, but didn't get any."

Head tilted to the side, Kenshō blinked as she looked up at the spot of yellow in the branches, "Um, Master? What is that?"

Now looking up at the yellow bird in question, Tsukiakari grinned a little before answering for Harry, "That, Kenshō, is what is known as the Yellowhammer. Also known as the writing lark."

Mouth open wide, the Kogatana nodded, "Ooooh!" Then, she bounced around a little, "Hey! Hey! Maybe it will write something for us! Mou..."

Needless to say, that got chuckles from everyone, though Yae still had a pout on her face from the cherry being stolen.

A few hours later, the Sun slowly set towards the horizon and everyone began to pack up the last couple of baskets. Under the trees, it was already twilight and the shadows began to grow. While tired, there were still happy smiles among the teens and others as they chatted.

Suddenly, Uesugi blinked and looked down as she scratched her head, "What in the world...? What are you now?"

Coming over, Harry came to stand beside her before blinking. A small smile appeared on his face as he looked down at the two animals that were scrounging around the bottom of the cherry tree trunk for fallen fruit, "Hello there." Still smiling, Harry looked over to the reincarnated warlord, "Unless I'm mistaken, those are hedgehogs."

Rapidly blinking where she was, Okita came over as well, "Wait, hedgehogs? Really?" Upon catching sight of them, she crouched down and put her hands on her knees, "Aw, they're adorable."

The other teens joined them, though standing a short distance away from the animals and began to film them. From where she stood beside Harry, Kenshō tugged at his shirt some, "One of them is pretty small..."

Only nodding as he patted her head, Harry chuckled a little, "That is likely her baby, born this year and maybe just a few months ago."

Part of him was amused as the various girls all cooed a little before Iku walked away and came back with some cherries that she tossed over. More smiles grew as they watched the two animals waddle over to the fruit and begin to munch down on them even as the others talked excitedly.

________________________________________________________________

After the group had another rest, they entered the final timeloop of the day. Which found Usagi wiping her forehead clean of sweat as she worked at the bush in front of her. Plucking some glossy dark blue or black berries from the plant, she considered them as her nose twitched. Those behind her noted, with more than a little amusement, that her cotton tail also twitched a bit.

Of course, not knowing this, the rabbit Yokai tossed back the berries and chewed on them thoughtfully for a few moments before nodding, "Hmm... sweet, yet tart." Smacking her lips, Usagi happily hummed, "So good..."

From where she was picking from a bush next to her, Natsumi snickered a little, "You're absolutely loving this trip, aren't you?"

Grinning back, Usagi shrugged some as she plucked some more berries from the bushes, "Can you blame me, Natsumi-Chan? No real adults around bothering us too much, all of us having fun with things, my friends here with me, and lots of sweet, sweet fruit to eat." Puncturating her words with another berry put into her mouth, she shook her head as she chewed, "This is practically paradise for a teenage Inaba."

That got her a laugh from her Kitsune friend who shook her head, "I'm sure it is." Sighing softly, she looked around and her expression softened as her gaze caught sight of Harry and Kenshō working at some bushes, "It really is..."

Just nudging her with an elbow, Usagi smiled, "Thinking about when you'll be bringing your own Kits here, hmm? Ones with black hair and green eyes most likely."

Blush on her face, Natsumi gave her a sheepish smile, "That obvious, huh?"

Shaking her head, the Inaba smile grew a touch, "Kind of, but I've known you long enough to guess." With a small shrug, Usagi looked around in thought, "Not that I don't blame you really. I mean, Harry-Kun is a good man, and going by this place? You'd have a very happy life and I hope that you will have as many children as you would if you were an Inaba like myself."

Tone dry, Natsumi gave her a look with some snark, "Gee, thanks for that considering how large your families get. My poor hips..."

With a laugh, Usagi winked at her, "Hey, at least it would be a very happy marriage in such a case, eh?"

Only shaking her head, her long time friend sighed, "Sometimes, I wonder." Tilting her head some, Natsumi gave her a raised eyebrow, "Surprised that you haven't even grumbled a bit regarding Harry-Chan and not having a chance."

However, Usagi snorted at that, "Because I'm not that sort of person, and Ayaka-Chan wasn't quite that serious and you know it. Now, if you mess up, which I think is about likely as Izanami-Sama and Izanagi-Sama declaring that they are married and happily once more with no problems, maybe Ayaka-Chan will actually make a move." Ignoring the snicker from Natsumi, and the soft thanks, she gave a shrug, "Besides, the field is too filled there as it is."

Thankful expression on her face, Natsumi nodded, "Thank you-"

Before she could finish, the rabbit Yokai waved a hand in the air, "If I was going to go after anyone? Might be a son of yours." Waggling her eyebrows, she licked her lips a little, "The fox would be caught by the rabbit in that case."

Groaning, Natsumi facepalmed before pulling back her hand, which left a few spots of blackcurrant juice on her face, "Really, Usagi-Chan? I mean, seriously? You too?"

Completely and utterly unrepentant, Usagi shrugged, "What can I say? Onee-Chan told me things about her Kitsune boyfriend~" Then she chuckled a little as her friend facepalmed again, this time with a blush, "But really? Any child of yours and Harry-Kun's would be a heck of catch. Both of you are good looking, kind, intelligent... basically what one would want in a significant other."

Simply sighing, Natsumi still had a slight smile on her face, "Well, maybe..."

Her friend then gave another shrug, "Besides, to be honest, Natsumi-Chan? We're Yokai, and all of us will live a long time." Pointing her thumb at herself, Usagi continued, "Myself? I can look forward to five, six hundred years of life easy. More if I follow some of my relatives into some Kami's service. Twenty, forty, even fifty years is nothing when you get down to it. Not to mention, our families are pretty close to each other. So there's no issue there binding our clans yet closer through ties of marriage."

Not saying anything right away, Natsumi considered that for a few moments, "True... and I suppose that the same could be said for Ayaka-Chan as well." Blush appearing on her face, she cleared her throat, "But still, we're talking about future children here."

Just smirking, Usagi hummed, "True, maybe one of my children with one of yours. Once more, I would not be against such a thing if it happened." Feeling a poke, she looked over at Natsumi, "Hmm?"

A smirk of her own visible, Natsumi pointed, "Relative of yours?"

Eyebrow raised, the Inaba looked in the direction mentioned and then gave her snickering friend a shove at the sight of the European hare hopping across the property.

Unlike with the other fruits, thankfully, the collection of the ripe blackcurrants took a lot less time. Which meant that, despite having started in the morning, they were done well before the Sun would set. Hence, the group left with them conversing between themselves about various things.

Curious look on her face, Yae blinked some and came to a stop as she looked at what looked like a small hill, "Hmm?"

Looking back, Harry blinked for a moment as he slowed to a stop followed by the others, "Yae-San? Is something wrong?"

Moments later, the Kendoka flushed a bit and waved her hands some, "Sorry about that, Harry-San! I was just noting the holes over there and was wondering about them."

Rather amused, Harry chuckled a little, "Those? That's where the local badger family lives."

Eyes wide, Yae looked towards the hill, "Badgers live there, really?" At the nod, she gave a small gasp, "Gozaru..."

Before anyone said anything else, a reddish head poked out followed by the rest of the fox it was attached to. Said fox came springing out onto the property but gave a curious look towards Natsumi and Taiyang before continuing. Eyebrow raised, Okita looked towards Harry, "I thought that you said those were badger burrows? But that was a fox..."

In return, said wizard shrugged, "Hai, they are. Here in Europe, you sometimes get foxes and badgers sharing burrows."

Giggling, Kenshō's eyes lit up, "So cool..."

About to say something, Harry paused for a moment and then smirked, "Want to know what else is cool, Kenshō?" At her nod, he gestured for her to follow and lead them to a patch of ground covered in various plants, "These are."

More than a little curious, the Kogatana leaned down and looked at the plants before tilting her head, "What are these, Master?"

Patting her head gently, Harry crouched down, "These are mint plants actually and right in front of us are peppermint. And over there..." He pointed at another spot, "Those are spearmint."

Nobu blinked at that and bent down herself to examine them, "Huh... mint plants?"

With a hum, Harry smiled at her, "Hai, mint tea is an excellent digestive after all, especially for an upset stomach. You can also chew the leaves to freshen your breath some..." He motioned with one hand towards the plants, "There's also all sorts of potions that they can be used in, not to mention for cooking like mint sauce on lamb and the like."

Tapping her chin, the reincarnated member of the Shinsengumi hummed, "So there's a lot of uses for them?" At his nod, Okita frowned a little, "Should we pick some leaves then?"

For a few moments, Harry considered that before nodding, "Sure, that sounds good to me. If nothing else, I can make us some chilled mint tea for after dinner. Now, the best leaves are..."
 
Fly Me To The Butterklavier [2044]
Yellowhammer

Fly Me To The Butterklavier

Statio Tranquillitatis, Mare Tranquillitatis 0° 41′ 15″ N, 23° 26′ 0″ E

July 20th, 2044

Spoiler: A Dream Of The Moon

"Magnificent Desolation."

That was what the second man to set foot here had said to describe what he saw to the millions listening to him across the Earth.

Gray dust and rock.

A sky the ebon black velvet of primal Night.

Stars as bright diamonds of light, not blurred by an atmosphere.

Pieces of ancient scientific equipment placed nearby waiting patiently for their makers to return for them.

A flag standing erect, the pristine red, white, and blue cloth strangely unmoving as if it had been frozen in time for eternity.

A spider-like platform resting on four spindly legs covered in gold foil that led up to a flat top with a round hole in the center..

One corner had a short ladder that stopped well above the dust and rock that had stood here since time immemorial.

At the bottom of that ladder was a single footprint in the dust.

A footprint whose outlines were as clean and razor sharp as the moment seventy-five years ago when it had been made by the first foot to touch the soil of another place than Earth.

Next to that footprint, a plaque rested on the leg of LM-5 Eagle.

The top showed the globe of Earth and below it a message in English
HERE MEN FROM THE PLANET EARTH

FIRST SET FOOT UPON THE MOON

JULY 1969 A. D.


WE CAME IN PEACE FOR ALL MANKIND

At a distance a newer, larger structure stood. Carefully constructed to never disturb the artifacts and site that it overlooked, it was filled with figures looking through the wall that was a single panel of foot-thick transparent steel thanks to alchemy and magic.

In solemn silence, a crowd of hundreds stood there, a tithe of the millions watching this ceremony.

Shipgirls.

Humans.

Magicals.

The Greek Deity whose name had been invoked for the journey to this place, standing holding his wife's hand.

Even three Abyssal Elder Princesses.

The Princess of Children Lost at Sea. Her crimson eyes were large and wondering as she held her Mother and Big Brother in her mittened hands, surrounded by her family.

The Princess of the Unknown Secrets of the Sea. Her eldritch dark and disturbing not-eyes were perhaps turned toward the unexplored stars looking down upon them as they had since the first man looked outside the circle of firelight to the strange lights in the darkness as they called to him. She stood inhumanly tall and graceful in her black dress next to Solie, Riles, and Trieste, all voyagers who had walked within the inky abyss in the deepest depths of the Sea, with something that might have been an enigmatic not-smile upon her knowing not-lips.

The Princess of the Atlantic Gateway, Porta Abysseum Atlantia. She stood surrounded by her court and daughter with a reverent expression that none had ever seen before upon the Empress of the Atlantic as the magical clock at the top ticked down the seconds in a countdown.

Finally it reached 02:56:15 UTC.

A voice sounded through the speakers, saying words that had been spoken 75 years ago that instant in this place.


As the words ended, on the lunar plain outside slender fingers touched the ivory and ebony keys of a master-crafted enchanted Bösendorfer piano.

Uncaring of the lack of atmosphere, the spirit of the piano, clad in a dress patterned on a NASA spacesuit with the commemorative patch of the Apollo 11 mission began to play Ludwig von Beethoven's Piano Sonata No 14. in C# Minor "Quasi una Fantasia" with all the skill and passion in her frame. Enchantments glimmered from her body to allow the sound of the Moonlight Sonata to be heard by the audience here and a world away as hammers fell slowly and gently in lunar gravity to caress her strings.

Next to Claire, Tony's bow found his strings as he, dressed in a matching suit patterned on a spacesuit too, joined his wife in a duet performance on his Stradivarius violin body to make a beautiful, haunting, hopeful, magnificent quiet melody filling the silence of the Moon. A melody that could never be played within the surly bonds of Earth.

As they played to honor with their magic those brave and visionary men who had taken the first step to the waiting stars with nothing more than their minds and hearts, the priceless blue, green, brown and white jewel of Earth shone down upon them all.

For the Eagle had indeed landed.
 
The Bells of Ath 5
Yellowhammer

A.N. -- More of Father Jacques with credit to Sunhawk2 . Now that little bombshell left for Colombe was found, we get on with getting the Chapel back in service. But as for problems in this crazy family, like Mother, like Daughter.

The Bells of Ath V

Castle Moulbaix, Belgium

22 August 2014


Eventually, Colombe regained some composure as her tears ceased to flow.

She took a deep breath, squared her shoulders, firmed her jaw, and bent down.

She picked up her sister's final letter gently and carefully refolded it.

Her soft voice whispered quietly into the stillness. "Non, Marie-Claire. I never deserved a sister so special as you. Ma sœur." With that she placed the folded letter in her bosom next to her heart.

Fr Jacques finished his quiet prayer, then smiled softly. He knew when to speak, when to keep silent, and while he would address this later in private, now was… not the time. Instead he gently urged his other helpers to help him inventory the cabinets, giving Colombe space to grieve for what had once been.
Spoiler: Restoring The Sacristy

"Ehren, would you be so kind as to start over there…" he gestured to the top cabinet furthest away from the wardrobe.

"Jawohl!" Ehren said, snapping to attention.

"And Claire, would you please help this old man with these lower cabinets, my knees are not what they once were." he smiled gently at the piano.

Ehren gave her shorter sister a look. Claire nodded, then began to help Fr. Jacques while standing ready to provide Piano Hugs if Mother needed them once more.

Claire opened one of the lower cabinets and smiled. "It's a wine rack, Father. Sunk into the floor." A wave of cold air from a cooling spell caused visible goosebumps as she pulled out a dust-covered bottle and rubbed the label. "Châteaux… Blanc. 1869?" The piano read the label and then placed it on the counter

Toku bent next to Claire and chanted in Japanese, her hands moving in an arcane pattern. A floating golden light formed and in response all but one bottle glowed a matching shade. "That one that is not glowing is bad, Claire-chan. The other three are still good to drink." The miko said before dismissing her spell.

Claire thanked Toku in her gentle voice and then poured the now-vinegar down the drain of the uncovered sink.

Ehren touched the cabinets and frowned. "There's a security spell on this cabinet up here and it's locked. A similar keyhole to the linen cabinet." She waved her wand and a band of Latin words appeared in a faint silver glow across the cabinet. "See if there is an inscription on the key, please Father?"

Ehren's brow wrinkled as Fr. Jacques headed to her. She puzzled out the Latin.

"Thesaurizate autem vobis thesauros in cælo, ubi neque ærugo, et vermes demolitur et ubi fures non effodiunt, nec furantur?" Ehren spoke hesitantly as she stumbled over the unfamiliar language.

"Matthew 6:20" the old priest replied absently as he examined a key on the ring stamped with Mt 6:20, deciphering the symbolism easily. "And if I recall my symbolic logic correctly… this should be the proper key." he smiled as he bustled over and unlocked the cabinet. "It is an excellent lesson for everybody, of course. Earthly possessions and treasures fade and tarnish, but those of heaven are eternal."

"Oui, they are," Colombe said absently, wiping tears from her eyes, "as are the memories of those who touch our lives." She touched the letter tucked into her bosom. "That should be the cabinet for the sacred vessels. I cast that anti-theft locking spell in 1718, in fact." She gave a wan smile as she finished. "One of the first charms and wards that I mastered in my First Year."

Ehren opened the cabinet doors and then gasped at the spotless gleams of the antique silver and golden objects within. "Father, I think that I should not handle these." She whispered respectfully and stepped back.

He chuckled slightly, then looked over to Claire. "Would you be so kind as to fetch my valise?" he asked her in his cracked old voice.

"Of course, Father!" Claire said and dashed out of the room in a one-piano stampede.

Meanwhile Ehren unlocked the other top cabinets on that side to reveal a chalice from the mid 1800s, along with a masterwork solid silver crucifix with calm assurance and love on the sculpted face of Christ, four communion-plates, a solid gold paten, and a set of eight heavy solid silver candlesticks etched with the Cross which were arranged small to large like a ladder in sets of two.

Colombe whispered with tears in her eyes. "Papa's altar set…. Thank heaven that Hippolyte never sold it like he hinted that he might be forced to 'handle the debts of the family' upon occasion." She gave a watery smile of joy.

Claire returned with the valise in both hands as her mother spoke.

"Praise God for small mercies and miracles then, yes?" the old priest replied, gently resting one hand on Colombe's shoulder for a brief moment and giving a slight squeeze. He did, in the silence of his own thoughts, wonder whom the old chalice had belonged to, but that wasn't something he would voice here.

He then turned and smiled, taking the valise and setting it on the counter. "My thanks." he said to Claire, bestowing a kind smile on the piano, then he opened the bag. "Just in case any of them count as relics, I will do this… formally." his eyes twinkled a little.

Colombe chuckled. "I could not say if they are holy relics; I certainly thought so as a girl though! I do know that all but this chalice were enchanted by me with durability, hardening and anti-tarnishing charmwork at Papa's request and are pure silver and fine gold."

"And so…" he drew out a pair of albs and set the neatly folded garments aside for now, then drew out a highly ornately stitched stole which he draped around his neck with a whispered prayer. "Ordinarily this is overkill, because at most these would be 3rd class relics and should simply be handled with respect, however I shall treat them for now as if they were 1st or 2nd class."

He then drew out a humeral veil which he also draped around his shoulders with a further whispered prayer.

Meanwhile Tokunotakai watched the process in respectful silence and with extreme interest in her eyes.

He then bowed slightly towards the cabinet and carefully withdrew each piece, handling them using the humeral veil as if it were a towel to protect the object from direct touch, and examined each one carefully, especially the base. "Did your family priest teach you the distinction between relics?" he asked Colombe with a slightly quirked eyebrow as he finished.

"Oui, Father," Colombe replied, closed her eyes, and then began her recitation from memory, her French slipping into the aristocratic accent of her youth, "A first-class relic is the body part of one of the Saints such as the finger bone of St. Louis of Toulouse that rests underneath the altar in the chapel. A second-class relic is the saint's clothing or other item used by the Saint such as the Sword of St. Catherine used by her and Saint Jeanne d'Arc. A third-class relic is an object that a first or second-class relic has touched such as this chalice should it be touched to the Sword."

Absently she rubbed her bottom, smirked smugly, and muttered an editorial comment. "Did I do it right this time, Father Louis?" Ehren's lip twitched minutely, Toku had an even more serene expression on her suspiciously calm face, and Claire giggled musically. Colombe opened her eyes and looked at the room.

Fr Jacques chuckled slightly, having heard the muttering. "Just so, just so." he replied, eyes sparkling with wit. "I see you were catechized properly!" He then turned to the girls who were helping. "As they are not relics, they simply should be treated with respect. Ehren, Claire, if you two would be so good as to fetch some soap and cloths so as to clean them properly we can get that squared away."

"Jawohl, Father!" Ehren snapped to attention and led Claire out. "I shall also get us something to drink from the kitchen."

He then turned to Colombe and smiled after the children left. "I hope you would not object if I were to… proselytize with the youngsters? I would not wish to do so without your permission." Left unspoken, of course, was that he'd do so either way, he just wanted her permission for maximum politeness. Meanwhile he reverently removed and refolded the humeral veil and alb, replacing them in the valise for now.

Colombe chuckled. "Not in the least. I do have to notify you, though that the Imps are behind in their education because the schooling in the Reserves was… poor."

Toku sighed and elaborated. "Nearly nonexistent, honestly. Apprenticeships, or whatever books and newspapers could be smuggled in for lesson materials at the best. And given the choice between food or medicine to save lives and books.... The conditions are those of the Edo era… ahh the 1700s in Europe."

Colombe agreed as she made a wry face. "Of course they did not know French at all. I cast a spell on both to assist with that and Chi-chan in particular has a superb brain and has been enjoying my library. Misaki is more the tomboy. So while they are nine years old, their schooling is closer to the age of six at the moment. They're catching up quickly in the local school, though." She finished with smug pride in her wards.

"Then perhaps it is a good thing that my college years were spent studying to be a teacher, before I fully accepted the call to the priesthood. I had ambition to be the headmaster of the school in Ath, after all." the old priest's eyes twinkled with mischief. "Perhaps out of a desire to prove that a scapegrace like myself could sit where he who tanned my britches once sat, yes?"

Colombe barked a laugh. "That thought crossed my mind the first time I sat behind Papa's desk instead of standing in front of it while he audibly questioned where he went wrong as my father yet again, yes." She grinned, "Claire, as you can tell, will be delighted to join the Faith should you explain it to her. Especially the hymnal and the possibilities of a pipe organ and a choir."
Spoiler: A Dove's Confession

The smile faded and she spoke seriously. "Ehren… is a much thornier road to the Cross. If I may have your word of confidence on what I shall reveal about her?"

Fr Jacques nodded with a smile. "Claire is a wonderful girl, and I can already tell that Ehren has had far too harsh of an introduction to the sad state of this fallen world." He paused for a second. "While I will consider anything you say to me to be under the seal of the confessional, perhaps it would be best if you were to simply confirm my own observations rather than bare your daughter's secrets to me?"

Colombe nodded, "With the caveat that I may include some matters that you may not have guessed that I as her parent feel are relevant to your mission here to bring her healing?"

Toku meanwhile glanced at the two. "I'll head to the chapel door and keep them from overhearing, Co-chan. Just break the privacy seal once you're done." At Colombe's nod, she left after placing an ofuda on the frame of the sacristy door.

The old priest simply nodded. "I have worked with some of the Kriegsmarine girls who passed through Boston before the trivial detail that I'd passed mandatory retirement age a decade ago finally caught up with me." he said, crooking a brief smile. "But she is carrying the burden of the Nazis upon her shoulders, feeling the guilt and burden of their many crimes upon her own shoulders as a consequence of how she came to be. If an object awakening is in any way similar to one of the unbuilt shipgirls awakening, then she may have initially thought nothing ill of her origin, only to be truly shattered and horrified upon learning the bitter truth. If she is anything like one of the girls who for some reason was summoned in the US rather than Germany, upon learning the truth she may have tried to harm herself."

Colombe nodded sadly, "Accurate as far as it goes, Father. However, there are some factors that exacerbate that problem." She sighed. "Tsukumogami, to use the Japanese term for us, gain the ability to form an avatar after reaching a certain age and the process is hastened by coming in contact with a person of significance, similar to a second-class relic, thinking of it. I have actually met the spirit of the Sword of St. Catherine in fact but we shall talk on that anon. In Claire's case, she was played by Claude Debussy in 1890, while in Ehren's case…."

Colombe took a deep breath and spoke in a flat voice full of tears. "She was presented to the top graduate of SS-Junkerschule in 1937. By Adolf Hitler. Personally. Helmar… her first Master was a loyal and honorable man, a member of a Prussian Landjunker family, and a brave soldier. I met him in 1941 while I was working for the Resistance and entrapped and betrayed him rather than work harder to sway him from the bright shining path to Hell that he was following with his stubborn loyalty and honor."

Another deep breath. "Ehren is at least somewhat aware of the good times that he and I shared before my betrayal of Helmar. Afterward he was turned into a vampire." She rubbed her abdomen. "We fought again in 1942 and I can tell you without betraying my magical oath that during that fight, Helmar used Ehren's true body on me and nearly killed me, I was unconscious with her stuck in my gut when I was magically transported out of the deathtrap we were in. That is how she came into my possession."

Colombe sighed. "Worse, the day that Ehren manifested her avatar in 2013, I first saw her in SS uniform next to Claire, did not realize who she was, and attacked her with a Sikh kirpan dagger to save Claire. Wrongfully, since Ehren would never harm her Big Piano Sister and fought to allow Claire to escape the madwoman that she thought that I was. Then when she found out about the Final Solution…."

Colombe bowed her head and wept, "I caught her trying to deface the heraldry on her hilt with a power grinder. If I had not stopped her, I would have lost her and even with magical healing and Kasuyu's skill it was as close then as it was when Helmar nearly gutted me in 1942. All that has made her extremely wary to trust and never trust uncritically, yet deep inside her she needs to cleave to a cause greater than herself. So while I hope you can save her soul, it will be a very rocky road."

Fr Jacques nodded seriously. "She will save her own soul, as I can already tell that she is a good person who simply needs to learn to trust herself once more." He smiled slightly. "And trust God, but God is patient in that regard." He took a deep breath, bowing his head and praying silently. "Thank you for that insight and history, it will be very helpful. And…" his eyes sharpened just a bit and he reached out, gently catching the rapiers chin and lifting it. "Tell me, my child, did you act out of malice towards Helmar?"

Colombe gave a sad smile. "A little, perhaps. I was afraid that I was falling for him, especially since I was already in a long-standing serious relationship with Lyra Potter until she died of old age in 1949. Most importantly, my oath of sworn service to Hachiman prevented forsaking the Allies to join him. Afterward, not until he kidnapped Ehren several weeks ago. When I realized that he was alive and had kidnapped her, I journeyed to Africa to save Ehren, yes, but also to end him once and for all." Colombe paused, visibly realized something, and spoke. "Ehren had to deceive him to… do what she did to assist in her rescue, but I do not know the details. My relationship with her is… strained thanks to my missteps as her mother. Claire, or perhaps Draco or Niobe -- Ehren's closest friends -- would be the only others that might know what happened during the week that she was under her Vati's eye."

The old priest just shook his head. "That isn't what I asked, my child. Malice isn't being somebody's enemy and acting because of that. It isn't opposing somebody when they need to be opposed. Malice is when you do evil simply because you can, in depraved defiance of doing good." He looked into Colombe's eyes. "So again, tell me, did you act in malice towards Helmar, or were you both caught in the chains of duty in this fallen world."

Colombe visibly thought as her spine straightened, then spoke in a sad and ashamed voice. "Gagging Helmar the way that I did when I took his identity before accomplishing the mission, yes. I should not have done that to end our relationship with such a cruel and humiliating betrayal and it was unnecessary. I should have knocked him out first to make him think that I had been abducted by the Resistance. Otherwise, as much as I hate myself for the actions that I took then, my duty and honor demanded them and I had no other choice that I could see. So I acted in malice then."

He pursed his lips slightly. "So like all mortals you, to use the vernacular, screwed up." he smiled then, his eyes twinkling just a bit. "So… as penance, perhaps, for a mortal sin... think upon the infinite Mercy of our Lord and Savior while teaching the children how to say the rosary properly." Her eyes widened as she realized that she could do something for her children that when in her youth only men could perform.

Then his smile became just a trifle… smug… "I even…" his hand darted into the valise and drew out four jewelry boxes. "Brought along some from the United States, already blessed even." then he handed them over.

She took the rosaries and gestured, causing them to pop and vanish. "I sent them up to my room so I can begin my lessons for the children after we finish getting you moved in and the chapel handled. Is there anything else you needed to speak to me about in private or shall I notify Toku to bring the girls back in?"

"Not for myself, my child." he replied with a smile.

Colombe visibly thought, then flicked her fingers at the ofuda which caused the ink on it to fade and vanish. "Nor can I. I shall be speaking more in private later, of course. My door is always open if you need to speak to me. And... Father, thank you."
 
[setgirl] Settling In
KiMaSa

Well, time for me to be helping and not halping.

Here is the next part of Nagato chan's saga:

Settling In

With Uehara removed from the equation, the five Japanese Setgirls were now placed under Lieutenant Kirby's command. It did not surprise Goto that the man had a light touch in the role. Kirby understood that, though willing to do their all, these girls were not bred to battle and quite frankly, their own wellbeing, which had been badly neglected, came first. Both Nagato and Yamato insisted that their namesakes would live with them. However, Upon speaking with Carrier Division One, Kirby realized that their household dynamic was different and perhaps not suited for Amagi and Akagi. Not that Akagi and Kaga were anything other than wonderful individuals but having two or three setgirls dropped into one's house could be disruptive and not the best for all concerned. However, Hosho stepped forward to claim the three carrier-sets. Apparently, the mother of Japan's carriers wasn't done being a mother. She could also teach them and Hornet and 'Hermes' (Actually the SS Mamari) how to be more convincing carriers.

Of course, the battleship sets could also benefit from such training but Admiral Goto didn't have a battleship to spare to teach them. Fortunately, Lieutenant Chalmers had HMS Centurion. Centurion had experience on being both a decoy AND a functioning battleship, so was the best teacher available for a full class of would-be battlewagons. The class would soon be joined by Nevada and 'Pennsylvania' Pennsylvania actually was more Arizona than Penn but with one Arizona already here, the other gracefully accepted her secondary identity.

In the meantime, while the higher-ups contemplated what possible uses they might have for an ersatz battlefleet, Chalmers and Kirby decided that a stand-down was in order to allow the girls to concentrate on acclimating to the new environment.

Unfortunately, this had the side-effect of reminding Enterprise that she was not even potentially useful as a decoy. She neither physically, nor temperamentally resembled her battle-hardened namesake. However, she agreed to help work at the cafe in her available time. It wasn't glamorous but it was service. And making a difference was the one thing she was about.

As for Nagato-chan, she was a bit overwhelmed. THE Nagato... Calling her 'daughter'! And meeting her family... She only hoped they would like her. She would show them that she was willing to work hard! She would be a credit to her family! She had to be!

Her mother knew the signs well. She had been there once before with Harry. Like Harry, Nagato-chan was an innocent, diligent, and devoted soul taken advantage of by a so-called guardian entrusted with her care. In time, she hoped they could instill Nagato-chan with the self-worth she deserved. In the meantime, Nagato intended that Uehara, Gendo, and anyone who had a hand in this shame would be expunged from the JSDF with prejudice.

For Nagato-chan, entering her mother's home was more intimidating than a massive fleet of Abyssals bearing down. That time, it was so obviously clear what she had to do. Her orders had been to abandon the children and seek shelter. Sure, she could have lied and told them she and Amagi were going to go face the Abyssals but not only would that have been a lie, it still would have left the children who placed their faith and trust in her alone with the dread of monsters looming. It would have felt like abandoning her duty and worse, betraying the innocent trust given her. She couldn't do that.

But now, just as part of her looked to her mother's home with excitement, another part of her was scared. They were her mother's family, so they HAD to be nice, right? It felt silly, made in the image of the Mighty Nagato and she was scared, intimidated. She wanted to hide behind her mother rather than face the introductions to the rest of her new family... Of Nagato's family.

It shouldn't be so scary but she could feel her heart and the boilers she didn't actually have, pounding in her chest.

Her mother put a gentle, calming hand on her shoulder.

"Nagato-chan? This is Harry."

Nagato-chan smiled shyly at the messy-haired boy. "Hello, Harry."

"Hello," Harry replied. Nagato-chan despite her size, definitely felt like a little sister to Harry. When their mom had explained how Uehara had treated her, Harry had been livid. One Vernon Dursley in the world was enough! The thought that people in the Defense Forces could behave that way to their little sister had not set well with either Harry or Hoppou. Harry knew that his mom was prepared to go... What was New Jersey's expression? 'Balls to the wall' to see Uehara and his supporters broken.

He was pretty sure mom only intended that in a career sense and not a bodily sense but it was tempting to envision a world where his mom could do what part of her so badly wanted to do. What only the presence of Warspite and Yamamoto himself had kept her from doing to Uncle Vernon the day she had found Harry, locked in his cupboard. Well, His mom could only do so much, legally speaking, against the Dursleys.

This was different. Uehara had made a lifelong enemy of someone who had both the standing and authority in his own uniformed service to come down on him like a mountain. Admiral Goto suspected that Uehara and Gendo were junior, card-carrying members of the 'I HATE SHIPGIRLS' club that was still part of the JMSDF.

They had been losing ground steadily for years and spectacularly when those who had tried to set up Captain Tanaka had been exposed but there were obviously still some out there. Goto had seen Uehara's service file and though he was regarded as loyal and punctual, one of his instructors had remarked that 'Uehara is functionally intelligent but has the imagination of a dead fish'. He was a man who was never going to see command, even in a world without shipgirls but their existence gave him a scapegoat, Nagato-chan and the others had merely given him a handy target. And Someone had let him.

Well, they were the ones in the crosshairs now.

"And this is Hoppou!"

Hoppou looked curiously at Nagato-chan. She knew that this girl who looked like mommy was not so powerful but still, Hoppou could sense the battleship in her heart. In some ways, she reminded Hoppou of Regalia.

"You need a hug!" Hoppou gently embraced the much taller but more fragile girl around her waist.

Nagato smiled as Hoppou hugged her new sister. Shiromizu and the other members of the household would be around for introductions later. Except for one smol presence who looked up at Nagato-chan with an appraising look.

"Gato! Gato gato gato! Gato!" Minagato asserted.

"Um? Thank you." Nagato-chan replied, somewhat intimidated by the sheer force of personality of the smol.

"Gato!" The smol gave a thumbs up.

"Well!" Nagato exclaimed. "It seems we need to do a little shopping. Two changes of clothes is an overnight bag, not a wardrobe, honey."

"Um... I don't want to be a bother..."

"Young lady, you will never be a bother. You are family and you're home. Besides! I figured we'd go to the beach tomorrow. You'll need a swimsuit."

"... Um... Momma?" Nagato-chan looked visibly distressed.

"What is it, honey?"

"I'm afraid to go into the water. I don't know how to swim..."
 
[setgirl] A Valiant Few
KiMaSa

And what we need... More Fluff!

A Valiant Few

In war, few are the commanders who believe they have plenty enough troops on hand. Fewer still are those who aren't looking for at least just a little more. The same can be said for the officers in charge of the Kanmusu Actress Corps. With the unlamented Lieutenant Uehara removed from the picture, Lieutenant Kirby, USN, and Lieutenant Chalmers, RN, were joined at Yokosuka by Kapitanleutnant Langsdorff. His girls, led by Atlantis, had been armed commerce raiders in their past lives. In this one, that made them uniquely qualified to defend convoys.

The sudden appearance of Atlantis or one of her sisters in a convoy had come as a nasty surprise for more than one Abyssal raider. So just as Chalmers' Decoys trained to look and act as dangerous Capital Ships, Langsdorff's girls trained to look and act as innocent and helpless as possible. These joined HMS Centurion, Leftenant Chalmers' new Secretary Ship, and another girl who would make Chalmers' life more interesting from this point forward.

After meeting success in finding girls like Tirpitz (A) at Pinewood. Other attempts to find and summon back setgirls met with mixed results. Like Above Us The Waves, Submarine X-1 was a British production about X-craft attacking a German Battleship. Efforts involving undisclosed persons in the magical community, assisted by actual returned X-craft had netted the return of three more faux X-boats. But even with the help of Deutschland and Admiral Scheer, attempts to summon the film's primary antagonist, a panzerschiffe named 'Lindendorf', had completely failed as there was simply not enough 'ship' in the sets for the pocket battleship.

The same thing happened when attention was turned to a number of films covering the infamous 'Raid on Alexandria' of November 1941. The Silent Enemy, Hell Raiders of the Deep, and The Valiant all covered the events but only with The Valiant, was any success obtained. The maiali craft were simply too small to manifest but enough of their mother sub, Scire and the battleship Valiant had been created to manifest. Considering the result, the actual battleship Queen Elizabeth, who was accompanying her sister HMS Valiant, was probably relieved that a version of her did NOT manifest as her sister now had an exact double who swore that she was an English Battleship but behaved very, very Italian in her tastes and mannerisms. Fortunately for HMS Valiant's sanity, her double was quickly packed off to Japan. Unfortunately, upon her arrival, Valiant (A) found her new 'Ammiraglio Chalmers' to be one English thing that was EXACTLY her taste.

"Even Centurion can't calm her down! She insists on preparing ALL my meals... Italian style, naturally. Luckily, she disappears every day at the same time for an hour. If it weren't for that, I doubt I'd be able to get a chance to taste English food at all!"

"Every day, hmm?" Goto asked. His amusement being tempered with a faint warning bell going off in his head.

"Yes, sir. Three O'clock on the dot.

There was something about that time, Goto thought. The warning bells were getting louder. Then he realized that someone else had also been missing at the same time of late.

"AMMIRAGIO!!!" A tall, busty blonde leaped onto Chalmers. Kongou stood there grinning.

"Welcome to my world, Leftenant," Goto sighed.
 
The Bells of Ath 6
Yellowhammer

A.N. -- This ones from Sunhawk! Many thanks to Yellowhammer for helping me bring Fr Jacques to life. It's been humbling and pleasing to see the reaction so far to my first foray into writing a priest.

The Bells of Ath VI

Castle Moulbaix

22 August 2014


Finally the last cabinet in the sacristy was opened and the contents surveyed. Ehren made copies of the list of needed supplies and actions in her precise and neat hand in triplicate.

Meanwhile Colombe led the procession back to the grand hall. They paused to admire the sweeping grand marble staircase flanked by polished stone banisters spiraling down from the balconies on the second floor and surmounted by the portrait of Jean Francois du Chasteler.

She spoke as they walked. "The first floor has your rooms next to the chapel along that hall with the bottom floor of the castle library at the end of the hall, the library takes up the northwest tower and has a staircase to the second and third floors." She winked. "Should the damp weather and old age take a toll on old bones, when I was severely injured in 1871 and had to use a cane or wheelchair, I installed a magically enchanted chair on the stairs that transports you up or down. I shall show you it anon to take the strain off you since the castle is extensive and much of the activity is a floor above your rooms. I had to use my wheelchair again after Toku's older sister Fudo visited to have words with me about her sister's relationship with me." The rapier grinned smugly as her daughters and lover rolled their eyes at her. "I still beat her easily and decisively in our duel."

Toku sighed and pinched her nose as she muttered in a tone full of fond love. "Fudo-chan no baka." She then continued. "Fudo-nee is hotheaded and overprotective but we love each other dearly. I am the youngest of my family -- the youngest Masamune that has manifested and she is my big sister and the closest of the Masamunes to me. She got the wrong idea about Co-chan's relationship with me after our first meeting in 1864 and somehow decided that Co-chan was a threat to my virtue; not helped by the clashes that Co-chan's father's family had with mine. When we rescued the Fujii family we had to magically leave Japan in a hurry with them, and Fudo-nee misread it as Co-chan beating me up and kidnapping me."

With immense dignity Fr Jacques simply allowed the comment about old age, bad knees, and sore backs to slide off of him like water off the back of a duck. "I will have you know that I am perfectly capable of handling stairs, my dear." he said simply, with immense gravitas. "And unlike what I am sure a certain young priest may have implied, I am also allowed to use my own knife and fork." His eyes started twinkling then.

"Jawohl, Father!" Ehren snapped out in a military bark with a twinkle deep in her eyes. "A set of silverware shall be promptly requisitioned from castle supplies for use in our priest's duties! I shall prepare the paperwork forthwith so Alles in Ordnung!"

"If only my nephew were so wise and understanding." the old priest replied. "Thank you, my child. Do ensure that the forms are filed in triplicate, yes?"

"Aber Natürlich!"(But of course) Ehren snapped to rigid attention with a heel snap as her sister giggled musically and shook her head with a happy smile. "Auf Ihren Befehl(On your command), Priester!"

He simply chuckled, reaching out to bless Ehren and Claire with amusement in his eyes.

Colombe laughed and Toku smiled, then guided the procession down the first floor corridor. "About half the castle is effectively closed down, Father." Colombe explained. "After I returned from the Great War I lived alone until Kasuyu manifested and then my daughters appeared beginning in 1990." She ruffled Claire's hair before resuming. "For various reasons I was keeping a low profile so no large numbers of servants like the Castle is designed to house and of course the family had dwindled to just myself. I expect that to change in the future since many of the reasons not to live here openly are about to end."

She opened a set of wood double doors and walked into a trophy room with elephant tusks, lion heads, a French and an Austrian battle flag from the Napoleonic Wars, and displays of African, Indian, and Chinese weapons. "The family mainly is using the east wing, with us sleeping and having sitting rooms above us on the second floor, but my trophy room here, the dining room through it, and the kitchen at the end have extensive use. As does the ballroom on the north side of the first floor. It is one of our primary social spaces, Claire in particular likes to play there and in her music room, which is what we call her sitting room."

Claire smiled and spoke in a voice filled with joy and wonder. "The garden, pond, and trees through the windows are so beautiful, and that was where Debussy played me." Her shy smile became positively angelic. "That's where you and the rest spar, Mother, and I can watch you and play music for you to make you happier."

Ehren gave her sister a nod. "The light through the windows is just right for me to read stories to the children too." She gave a minute lip twitch. "Misaki enjoys playing in the rafters overhead as well." She ran her hand over the hardwood map table with a visible smugly satisfied smirk on her lips.

Fr Jacques simply nodded along to the commentary like a proper guest. "It is a good thing to see that the manor is still loved and lived in despite the difficulties. Too many others have been abandoned or turned from their original purpose." he smiled faintly. "And that banister on the grand staircase would have been an irresistible temptation to sin when I was a tad bit younger." his eyes at this point were twinkling so furiously that one could be forgiven if they mistook him for a clean-shaven and much younger Dumbledore.
Spoiler: A Matter Of Castle Rules

Colombe got a very suspicious cough and blush at the mention of the banister. Claire grinned impishly like an ebon-haired pixie. Ehren spoke somberly in the tone of a judge passing sentence. "Ja. There have been strict rules about no unassisted human flight using that banister as a Skisprung(ski jump) for centuries."

A glee filled cry of childish delight punctuated her words, followed by a thump. "Or unassisted Tanuki flight."

A second cry of joy was followed by a thump. "Or unassisted Jorogumo flight."

Throughout it all, Ehren's face and voice were totally deadpan.

"Do these rules forbid, say, unassisted dagger flight, or perhaps unassisted piano flight?" the old priest asked with a sly little smug smirk.

"I have no available data on the optimum flight characteristics of a grand piano on a Skisprung. To date the research team has been shockingly amiss in supplying requested data. Despite continual pleas, someone is hoarding data sets from joint Germano-Austrian experimental runs." Ehren replied phlegmatically and solemnly as Claire covered her mouth to stifle the giggles.

"Shocking, simply shocking." Fr Jacques bestowed a mock serious look upon Claire. "I believe that some of the communications ratings back in the day would be horrified at the lack of communication taking place concerning such vital information."

"Ach so, but what can you expect from an Austrian too much in love with the good life and not Proper Prussian Efficiency?" Ehren replied, still with that deadly solemn voice and controlled face.

Suddenly, Ehren's eyebrow twitched uncontrollably as a piano in the distance began to play The Daring Young Man On The Flying Trapeze.

Toku's already suspiciously serene face became utterly sphinx-like.

Colombe opened the door to the dining room and spoke in a dry tone. "I think we should see about lunch before certain junior individuals in residence are tempted to commit mortal and venial sins involving a banister that the Marchioness of Chasteler and Moulbaix certainly has never slid down." A beat. "There's no proof anyway." Another beat. "Or witnesses." A third beat. "Or co-conspirators."

Fr Jacques smirked, positively smirked. "So since Tuesday?" he replied in an urbane voice, then swept past Colombe into the dining room with all the grace and dignity of a mighty sailing ship under full sail.

Toku's Masamune Resting Bitchface became that of a graven image.

They walked into the dining room, which was dominated by a large hardwood table with places already set in front of hardwood chairs, with two places not having a chair. Fine blue and white antique china and polished silver cutlery stood in serried ranks on the table, aligned with cloth napkins.

Colombe explained to Father Jacques, "Miho and Misaki prefer to stand in their natural woman-spider form for meals."

She cocked her head. "The castle has an extensive wine and brandy cellar and we of course have juice, water, milk, and can get sodas and the like from the grocers of Ath. As well we have tea and coffee."

Ehren coughed and the others looked at her. "Ja, I have a suitable precise espresso machine for my preferred Kaffee blends."

One eyebrow quirked up. "Would it be a stretch too far to assume that your setup is capable of brewing proper Navy coffee?" there was a definite tinge of hope in the old priests voice at that.

Colombe nodded, "We shall have to make some minor arrangements such as a dedicated pot, but yes. My younger sister Jacklyn is the expert in the family at brewing that black crime against nature. Ehren is the family expert for coffee and Toku for tea."

Fr Jacques merely sniffed at the description of Navy coffee. "I would have you know, my dear girl, that Navy coffee has served the cause of Freedom and Liberty for generations and shall always stand ready to defend us all against…" his eyes twinkled again as the children stormed into the dining room in a thundering horde. "The hordes of perdition."

Miho followed them in, now shifted into the form of a beautiful and leggy Japanese woman in a knee-length modest maid's dress. "Misaki-chan! Chi-chan! Wash up first! Then you can get a plate in the kitchens and pick what you want for lunch!"

The two Imps nodded and headed to the kitchen under her gaze.

Inside it Nongqawuse, dressed in a light shirt and khaki shorts supervised the last touches of the luncheon. "The candied apples are ready." She declared laconically before moving around the monstrous stainless steel bulk of a professional espresso machine marked as 'Ehren's Kaffeemaschine des Lebens'(Coffee Machine of Life) on a magnetic sign with a neatly lettered retort written beneath it: "Keine Klaviere erlaubt!"(No pianos allowed!)

Kasuyu, now shirtless and in a Scottish kilt pulled out a side of roast beef while the household washed their hands in the clearly original sink. The kitchen was a mix of old and new with modern appliances and electricity, but also antique bronze and cast iron pans and kettles hanging from hooks over the medieval stone ovens and a set of hollow brass tubes poking from the ceiling to a head high position over the counter which had plates at one end and assortment of waiting dishes laid out in trays, pans, pots, and plates waiting to be loaded for the hungry.

The old priest murmured a prayer under his breath while he washed his hands fastidiously, then dried them as well before getting in line for a plate with the others, taking no precedence at all. He may be a guest, but he was a priest. Once he had filled his plate he took the indicated seat between Claire and Miho and across from Chihiro and Misaki and folded his hands in front of him. Once the others had seated themselves he spoke before anybody could dig in. "Shall we give thanks for the bounty before us?"

"Certainly." Colombe said. "Since we have a variety of faiths brought together here, we do rotate the duty at meals. I suppose you can take Claire's turn in the rotation for today." She winked as Claire smiled and bowed her head for the blessing.

"Of course." he bowed his head then crossed himself "In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit." he paused for a moment, then continued reverently. "Father of us all, this meal is a sign of Your love for us; Bless us and bless our food, and help us to give you glory each day through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen"

A chorus of amens answered him and then the table began to dig in with gusto.

Claire hummed a Bavarian drinking song musically next to him in a happy voice while across from her Ehren methodically demolished one serving at a time between sips of espresso. Meanwhile he noticed that both Jorogumo, now in their spider-woman forms, had selected extensively from the meat dishes available (a smoked venison sausage was especially popular) while Chihiro had a more balanced mixture of meat and fruits, including a very large helping of cinnamon apple slices that had been prepared from some of the morning's harvest from the orchard. Curiously, both of the Jorugumo had a bowl filled with what appeared to be chocolate-covered beans, with Misaki's being noticeably smaller.
Spoiler: A Chat With The Spiders

Fr Jacques ate with appropriate decorum, glancing around the table, then looked over at the two Jorugumo. Patting his lips with his napkin, he waited for a suitable break and then looked over at the younger of the pair. "So, Misaki is it? I understand that you enjoy climbing things, yes?" he asked with a bit of a twinkle in his eyes.

The young spider giggled and nodded happily as she spoke in a delighted voice. "This castle is the absolute best! It has rafters and hiding places and walls and stairs and vents and banisters! And we can hunt in the attic!"

Chihiro nodded eagerly in agreement. "And books!"

Across from her her older sister gave a fond smile and responded. "Indeed she does. Us Jorogumo enjoy climbing and spinning our webs, like the spiders that we are descended from."

The old priest smiled at that. "Sounds like you are able to have a great deal of fun." he then leaned down a little and grinned. "Did you know that in America there are stories of somebody who got bitten by a special spider and got the abilities of a spider?"

"Ooooo!" Misaki said, her eyes wide and intent on him. "That's amazing!"

He nodded. "Indeed, he's called…" he dropped his voice dramatically "The Amazing Spider-Man. He has the strength, speed and reflexes of a spider, scaled up to human size so he is super-strong. He slings webs in order to swing around the city and fights crime and evil supervillains."

Ehren spoke dryly. "And with great power comes great responsibility, ja? Or as Mutti says, Noblesse oblige." She sipped her coffee calmly as she gave the priest a cool stare that communicated without words that she had sunk the knife in his back to the hilt before he noticed her strike.

Fr Jacques simply lifted his own coffee cup in salute to the dagger. "Indeed, the concept is universal. After all, Our Lord teaches that the first shall be last and the last shall be first, and that one who seeks to have power, first must learn to serve the least in creation."

Ehren raised an eyebrow and responded in that dry tone. "Quite. So, should I start calling you Onkel Ben? Claire piano-napped me to watch all three movies in a marathon shortly after I manifested. She enjoys the music of Danny Elfman. Among many others. Such as John Williams." A beat. "Are you aware that it is physically possible to watch all six Star Wars movies nonstop at a sitting when she gives you that pleading look?"

Claire finished humming Das Hofbrauhaus and then swapped tracks to Norman Gets the Boot from the first Spider-Man movie.

"A fine musician and a wonderful composer, both of them. And indeed, there was one time when we were cruising in circles off of Pearl when the chief's mess decided to put on a Star Wars marathon like that. Jar-Jar is most certainly the true dark lord of the Sith." The old priest replied, smiling over at Claire for her fine taste in musical accompaniment.

He then glanced over to Chihiro and grinned. "While not quite as… on point. The same comic book publisher that does the Spider-man stories also has a series which features a talking raccoon-like alien named Rocket Raccoon."

"Ooooo!" Chihiro squealed around bites of candied apple slices. "Do you have any manga volumes, Father Jacques?"

"I can do better than that. I just so happen to have a certain DVD in my valise that my grandnephew gave me, which has a movie which features Rocket in it." he replied with a faint smirk.

"Can we watch it?" the Imps asked in chorus from eager faces.

Miho smiled at him and spoke with a note of approval. "I see that we have a webweaver here. Clever, Father."

Claire then chimed in curiously, "Who did the music, Father?"

Ehren just raised an eyebrow and commented to no-one in particular. "Once my chores are done, I suppose I shall provide moral support for Claire."

"Tyler Bates wrote the score, but most of the music is made up of classic rock and roll songs." he replied to Claire, even as he winked slightly to Miho.

Claire smiled happily and began to eat her sausage. Ehren meanwhile continued her methodical demolition of her meal.

Miho turned to Father Jacques and spoke to him in a husky voice that made him think of the saying about spiders and parlors. "I see that you have questions about us, what we are?"

"Indeed I do, but I would not wish to pry where it may be unwelcome." he smiled. "After all, it may be seen as quite rude to ask certain questions out of ignorance and it would not do to darken such a fine meal with such."

Miho's smile widened. "Perhaps after the meal and the movie then? I would prefer that my presence and those of my children were not public knowledge. While us Jorogumo are no longer what we were in folklore during the past, our reputation is not the best." She winked and breathed in and out in an oddly enthralling rhythm. "Do me a favor and pick up your spoon?"

The old priest quirked an eyebrow and did just that. As he did, the spoon flowed like quicksilver through his hands in an orange liquid to reform just to the side of where he had picked it up. He could feel the cool fluid cross his fingers and vanish. She winked at him.

"How marvelous!" he said with a broad smile. "A truly magical gift. You either transfigured the spoon in some way or, perhaps…" he tilted his head a little "A cunning illusion, wrought by a mistress weaver of webs?"

"The latter actually. We are mistresses of the webs of illusions and deception, among other things. Although many of our powers are inborn, or at least require multiple limbs to weave our strands of truth and fiction, others are able to be taught to those friends who we favor if they have the gift like we do." She nodded to Ehren, who was drinking her coffee out of a cup made of a starry night sky with a cool stare on her face and an eyebrow raised. He hadn't even noticed the change in her beverage

"A great gift and a fascinating talent." he said with a smile. "Granted, one that would spark many hours of wonderful debate and hair splitting over the ethics of it all. Perhaps when we have a few free hours we could discuss that, as I'm certain that you have thought of such things far more than I."

"Most certainly when our duties permit such a conversation, Father." Miho said while Ehren nodded along with the spider's words. "I recommend that we invite Tokunotakai-sama along, for she has a keen mind and has thought deeply on the subject."

Ehren nodded sharply as her cup shimmered and returned to normal. "Ja, she does." Ehren spoke phlegmatically as she placed her cup down and then cut another slice of her sausage.

"Please, let me know when it will be convenient, I am looking forward to a good philosophical discussion. Surprisingly, for some strange reason deep philosophical and theological debates were not a common feature of my time as a chaplain, aside from arguing with Connie over whether or not her being personally blessed and sanctified by the Pope made her Catholic." his eyes twinkled with amusement.

Ehren raised an eyebrow. "We can discuss at breakfast tomorrow what would be a good time then? I fear that I have a prior claim on my free time related to a movie involving heroic raccoons and young friends wishing to experience them." A pause. "And a sister looking for more tunes to transcribe for our rock band to cover. I have hopes that one of the artists who are featured is Sabaton."

"I regret to inform you that the newest music in the movie dates from the 1970s, so before Sabaton were born," he solemnly replied.

"Ach, so." Ehren responded agreeably. "Such is life. I am sure that Claire shall be finding something of merit from the soundtrack then. I defer to her expertise in such matters." She stood for a refill on her espresso. "Does anyone need more drinks or additional food from the kitchen?"
-----------------------

When the meal had concluded, the old priest waited a beat, then bowed his head in prayer once more before picking up his plate and carrying it to the kitchen to be washed. His eyebrow raised as he noticed Colombe began to wash the plates at the sink with clear experience, drying them with a summoned floating ball of fire. "So…" his voice was just loud enough for everybody to hear. "Ms Toku, could you be so kind as to show me the room I shall be privileged to stay in while our dear hostess and expert dishwasher gives the young ones the gifts I brought for them?"

The children's eyes lit up and Claire looked interested. To his lack of surprise, Ehren revealed nothing in her non-reaction.

"Oui, Father. I shall do so. Ahh, remind me later to show you the use of the third key on the keyring, the one etched with the Keys of St. Peter." Colombe said with a wry smile as she racked Ehren's plate in the cabinet.

Toku bowed to him gracefully. "Mochiron, shisai(Priest, of course). If you will follow me?"
 
[Summer Harvest Trip] Elm & Joachim Potter
Harry Leferts

Within the clearing, the only sound that could be heard besides the songs of birds, the whispering of the breeze in the boroughs, and the burbling of a nearby brook was the crackle of flames and the hissing of juices dripping into the burning logs. As well, besides the smells of summer, one could also smell the scent of cooking meat over an open flame. Humming thoughtfully, the young, messy haired man jabbed a knife into the side of a boar cooking over the fire before nodding to himself with the smile of one who did a good job as he turned it, 'Just about done.'

Hearing the sound of strings plucked, the young man turned with a smile towards where his companion was lounging as she played a crwth.

Unlike most women, however, this one from the waist down was a horse with greyish fur. For a few moments, the messy haired man just simply observed the centauress as she played. The dappled shadows of leaves and branches playing across her body as she did so. Eyes trailing along her form, he felt his smile grow. Upon her head, waves of blonde hair fell down to midback, kept away from her ears with leaf shaped ornaments. Her ears, pointed and nearly as equine as her lower body, twitched a little as the smile played along her full lips as her fingers worked the instrument's strings.

Meanwhile, her shirt, which showed just some cleavage and hinted at her bosom, rode upwards some, exposing her well muscled stomach while hiding her equally muscular arms within the voluminous sleeves. Limbs that the young man had seen pull back a yew bow fully and put an arrow through plate with ease. Yet, they were so gentle when handling him and his as shown when she had lifted one of his younger cousins who had injured his ankle to carry him home. The skin that he could see was lightly tanned, with just a hint of freckles upon her face, but glistened in the near evening light due to the sweat of exertion from the day's hunting. Here and there one could see slight scars as well, showing that she was willing to live a life as adventurous as his.

Gaze continuing on, the young messy haired man could only hum as he came to the equine portion of her body. To his eyes, it was as beautiful as the rest of her. Sleek muscle under soft, greyish fur, equal to any horse of any king. Legs that could carry her at a run faster than many steeds bred specifically for such as well! Which he well knew from his own experiences from riding upon her back.

Where the two halves met, one could not see much, however. For she wore a dragonhide skirt of sorts where her humanoid portion met the equine, one that had pouches along it. Belts ran from said skirt along her equine body to another leather covering that ran over her hindquarters, concealing it from sight. He could still remember her amusement at it and the reasons behind it, though she did accept it as it had been embossed with designs. Still, he knew under the first skirt that tanned skin eventually seamlessly melded with that of the furred hide of the horse, something he had felt time and again.

A chuckle echoed out before a voice that reminded him of soft, warm leather spoke up and broke him from his thoughts, "Ah, Joachim, you're staring again." His gaze went to the female centaur's face and found her with a slight flush, though there was still amusement in her brown eyes along with something else, "Do you not have anything better to do with your time?"

Lightly chuckling, Joachim gestured around them, "At the moment, my dear Elm? Nothing. But then, I always make time for such wondrous acts such as observing you. Time wasted, it is not."

Once more, Elm laughed before flashing her teeth at him in a grin, "Such a silver tongue that resides within your mouth. One must wonder if it is that or your magic that is the most dangerous aspect of you."

Just laughing himself, the Potter winked and grinned back at her, "Ah, well, that is a good question, is it not?" Joachim then gestured at the boar cooking, "But, sadly, I must turn my attention away from such things. For it is time to eat!"

Simply nodding as she placed her instrument into a pouch, Elm rose to her hooves easily and walked over before laying back down once more, "Indeed? Well, it would not be thankful to the wild if we were to waste such a meal." Pulling out some rough, wooden plates along with bread, she handed him one which he took before bringing out two wooden cups which were filled with wine, "Let us eat and be merry."

Unable to help himself, Joachim winked at her, "Ah, but that is but my secret, Elm. With your company, I am always merry, eating or not." That got him another laugh and he cut a large hunch of meat to place on the female centaur's plate, which she then took up and tore into. Nodding to himself, he cut some meat for himself before drinking the wine to wet his mouth. With a gesture to the boar, he picked up the hunk of meat and bit into it before chewing, "You know, one might become jealous of you. Your skill with the bow is second to none, as with your beauty."

Winking, the Centauress nudged him, "Perhaps, but then I am a centaur! It is to be expected that I am good with the bow. As for beauty? That I am unsure of." Then she smiled and shook her head before taking another bite and a swig of wine, "But it gave us quite the run, yet here we are eating it!"

Only humming, Joachim smiled back at her as he chewed, "Indeed we are, though it was your skills at the hunt that allowed us to. Alas, mine are not as well to do as yours."

The answer he got was more laughter from his companion, "Perhaps I should teach you more then!" Her grin became teasing and her next words got a laugh from Joachim, "It would not do for you to get lost and starve when journeying to the next village without I, your faithful companion!"

It was something of a running joke between them, where he would complain about her making his skills look bad, yet then she would answer back that it came naturally and she could not help such. Yet, both knew that there was no heat behind his tone, for he had accepted that a long time ago. Rather, it became something that they would tease each other over.

After a few moments, however, Joachim's smile faded a little as he thought over her last words, 'My companion...' With a sigh, he took a bite of meat, "Do you ever regret it?"

Understanding what he meant without more needing to be said, Elm shook her head, "No, I do not." Turning, her brown eyes gazed into his hazel, "I will never regret saving you that day or what happened after. You are a good man, Joachim, and saving you was the right thing to do whether or not you are human."

Grimace on his face, the young man's gaze went to a scar on her flank which resembled a burn, though long since healed. One that he remembered making her limp when it was fresh though it was a lesser wound on that day, "Yet... here you are, all but exiled from your home... your family... and your people."

Expression becoming soft, Elm shook her head as she took his hand in hers, their rough skin and callouses rubbing against one another, "An exile that I accept freely, though it was forced upon myself. If saving a life is not right? Than I have no problem being in the wrong, especially as it was your life." Leaning down, she smiled at him as her thumb rubbed along his knuckles, "I saved you for it was the right thing. Then, as it was the right thing and a matter of honour, you saved me in return. Never doubt that. As for being home and with family..." Her eyes glistened as they met his, "That is in the here and now."

With gentleness, he turned her palm upwards and kissed it as his eyes met hers before grasping it, "Thank you, though it is still something that I feel guilt over, my Elm."

Unable to help herself, Elm laughed as she smiled, "Perhaps one day, I shall make you understand then."

Reaching up with one hand, Joachim moved some strands of hair behind one of her pointed ear with a slight smile of his own, "Perhaps you shall, though only you would know by looking at the stars which shine a light which is matched and surpassed by those in your eyes."

Once more chuckling, the Centauress gestured at the meal, "Now, enough of such things. Let us enjoy our meal in companionship! It is a time to be merry after all."

That got her a hum from her male companion and, soon enough, the meat was gone as was the bread and some of the wine.

With a soft hum, Elm stood up and smiled after he cleaned off the plates and washed out the goblets with them going back into one of her pouches. Taking a few steps forward, she hummed before looking over her shoulder, "Daylight shall last for a time more, Joachim. Perhaps it is best to go to the brook and wash ourselves of the day's dust from the road? I could use the help."

Blinking for a moment, a wide smile appeared on Joachim's lips, "Of course, my Elm. It would be my pleasure."

A laugh escaped from the female Centaur and she grinned, "I suspect so!" Galloping some, she laughed again, "Now quickly! If we are to have time to dry in the sun!"

Shoulders shaking, Joachim laughed as she chased her, "Ah! But the quarry flees from the hunter! With hooves blessed by Artemis herself! Yet, I shall catch you!"

By the time he caught up her, however, she was already at the brook and removing the straps that kept the leather on her equine body, hanging said pieces onto a tree branch. Shirt loosening, Elm looked over her shoulder at Joachim with a small, knowing smile as it pooled around her humanoid waist before she placed it beside the leather. For a few moments, the two watched each other before the Centauress walked into the brook, water reaching her equine knees, and then belly, before then covering most of her.

Briefly, she bent her knees to allow for the humanoid portion of her body to get wet before standing once more and turning in the water. Part of her was pleased that Joachim had already removed his shirt and placed it beside her own. Dipping her hands into the water, she brought them up and allowed the liquid to run over her sun kissed skin before her eyes became hooded, "Are you not coming in, Joachim? The water is most pleasant and cool."

Leaning against the tree and bare from the waist up, the Potter looked her over for a few moments before humming as he stroked his chin, "Ah! But I wish to enjoy the sight before me." Broadly grinning, Joachim spread one arm away from his body, "Hark! What is before me? Is it a dream? One of the Ancient Grecian tales? Where a hunter comes upon a nymph bathing in a spring?" Then, he shook his head, "Only to be cursed? Alas, but one has already befallen I! The arrow has struck true for something truly precious has been been taken, never to be given back."

Despite her laughs, Elm's cheeks still darkened and she grinned, "And her, but what is in front of me if this be a Grecian dream? Perhaps one as blessed by Apollo, for his arrow has also struck true!" The , she shook her head and gave a splash, "Now, leave aside that silver tongue, or perhaps gold, and come in to wash the wear of the road away."

Not needing to be told twice, Joachim removed his breeches before walking into the water with a slight shiver. Soon, it reached his chest and he had to swim somewhat. Upon reaching Elm, he placed one hand on her back and the other in one of her hands, the Centauress smiling down at him, and receiving one in return as they enjoyed the cool, flowing brook.

__________________________________________________

Night had fallen and the only illumination besides the Full Moon and stars above was the crackling fire. Leaning against Elm's equine half as she brushed her hair, Joachim watched the flames devour the wood with sparks climbing into the darkness. He was pulled from his thoughts as Elm's fingers threaded into his hair before she spoke, "You're worried, Joachim."

Glancing up at her, he smiled a little, "Is it that obvious, my Elm?"

Slowly, Elm shook her head some, "Only to one such as I whom knows you." Her gaze softened a little, "You are worried about the upcoming wedding to Lucinda, yes?"

A grimace appeared on Joachim's face before he snorted, "You, perhaps, are a Centaur, Elm. But that woman? She is a nag."

That got him a snort from his companion who shook her head, "I would go further and wonder if she perhaps has the blood of an ass in her. But then, asses are hard working, if temperamental, unlike her." Her understanding look returned, "But you are worried about more than just that."

Slowly, Joachim nodded as he turned his attention back to the flame, "It is the Malfois, Elm. While I can understand the Wizard's Council wishing to end the feud between our two sides, there is more I feel. Part of me fears that the Malfois were involved in the decision through their gold or other methods. And it reminds me far too much of what happened with the Williamson's."

Voice soft as she continued to run her fingers through his hair, Elm leaned down, "What happened, my Joachim? What happened that worries you so?"

His own voice nearly a whisper, the Potter frowned, "They, too, feuded with the Malfois, but in Normandy. They convinced the King to create a marriage between one of their daughters and the heir of the Williamson's. However, the other males of the family died or could not produce heirs, and thus the Malfois in a generation gained control of the land once belonging to the Williamson's with only their cousins' the Weasleys, holding on due, some say, to fertility magic of some sort in their line. That was but two generations ago.

Now understanding, Elm frowned a little, "And you worry that they may, perhaps, be attempting the same with the Potters?" At his nod, she was silent for a few moments before looking at the stars. Joachim stayed silent, allowing her to read them until she nodded, "Speak to your Grandmother in the orchard, the Queen. Her magic will prevent theirs from interfering in your family and she will gift protection. Her price will come in three generations as she will seek to renew the ties between your families. One that will bring no harm to the Potters..."

Noticing the look on her face, he took her hand and gently kissed the palm, "You see something else. Something that concerns you, my Elm, my Companion. Because you seem conflicted."

With a shuddering breath, Elm looked down and her eyes had unshed tears. Wetness that Joachim wiped away with his thumb, "Indeed, my Joachim. The marriage will not be happy, but persevere, for it will not last. But with the end, so too will one come to my brother and one will almost come to the Malfois. Yet... while the stars will not tell me fully, they say that there is a brightness in the future for us. Still... I weep for what will happen to those I once called mine. Banish me, they did, but my heart still remembers them from before."

Shifting to his knees, Joachim cupped her cheek before pressing their foreheads together, "Dearest Elm, you weep for you are a good woman. And no matter what, that is what I see when I look at you. My Elm, my Companion who walks beside me always, my Protector, and the one whom I shall protect in turn."

Arms coming up, Elm wrapped them around her waist as tears dripped down her cheeks, "And I thank you, my Joachim. My Companion whom I walk beside and carry when needed. The one whom protects, and is protected in turn. A good man."

Opening her eyes, brown met hazel as the two continued their embrace under the Stars and Moon.
 
[setgirl] How Are You?
KiMaSa

And a touch more on Valiant:

How Are You?


Lieutenant Chalmers had gradually begun to accept his position as the object of Valiant's overzealous affections. He admitted that her cooking was actually quite good and having the attention of a confident, beautiful woman certainly did wonders for his ego. But there was one thing that still bothered him.

"Valiant?"

"Sì, mio ammiraglio?"

"How are you here? How? From what I know, you shouldn't be here. You ought to simply be memories of the cruiser Abruzzi."

Valiant smiled, serious for once. "No, my admiral. Abruzzi, she is like my mama. Of course Valiant is like my mama but... There was more than that which created me. Without Valiant, I would not exist and without Abruzzi, I probably would not exist, but I am more than just what my mothers gave me. I suppose because I am an idea given form? An idea fed from a number of sources. I admit I would wish for a sister, perhaps but such was not meant to be, I think." She smiled. "But the life I have will be a good one! And that means taking care of my admiral! Who knows? Maybe I do not have a sister. But maybe I will be a mother, yes? And carry the children of my admiral? I will tell you a thing."

"Oh?"

"My Burning Love is real. Beyond that, it doesn't matter."
 
[setgirl] Training Begins
KiMaSa

And more catching up with the setgirls!


Training Begins

HMS Centurion stared coolly at the motley line of girls in front of her. Word had come down that all the actress types were going to get special training to perform their roles. Rumors had it that the brass were planning something. All Centurion knew is that she had a motley lot of civvies to try to turn into convincing battleships. She did have help: USS Illinois and USS Recruit stood next to her but due to the nature of their construction, there were certain things they couldn't help with. So of the twenty-four motley girls lined up in front of her, sixteen were her direct problem. Judging by their appearance, Illinois and Recruit would have an easier time with their eight. The setgirls at least knew how to wear their uniforms properly. The Decoy girls had all been civilian ships in their past lives and tended to regard military courtesies with amusement.

"I am HMS Centurion! I will be your chief instructor for this course! These are USS Illinois and USS Recruit! They are serving as my assistants. If they give you an order, OBEY it!" She looked down the line, eyes locked on SS Tyrolia. "All of you may notice that I am wearing the patch of HMS Anson and not my own 'Centurion'. That is because in this class you will all respond to your cover names ONLY." She frowned. "ORUBA! Take two steps forward!"

As she expected, one of the girls stepped forward.

"WHAT in the name of the Crown do you think you are doing?"

Oruba froze like a deer in the headlights. "Ma'am?"

"There IS NO Oruba in my class! There is HMS Orion! You respond only to your cover name. If addressed by any other name, you do NOT respond. Understand me, Orion?"

"Ma'am! Yes, ma'am!"

"Good. Get back in line."

As she complied, 'Vanguard' spoke up. "Ma'am? If the need arises, do we address you as Centurion or Anson?"

"How can I be Centurion when Centurion is three places over on your left? However, OUTSIDE of class, you may address me as Centurion."

"Yes, ma'am!"

"Now, I will call your assignments out by squadron number. You will line up one, two, three, four in your squadron. Right. Now! First Battlecruiser Squadron! Tiger! Queen Mary! Invincible! Indomitable! Come on now! you're not on holiday!" She urged them on. "Second Battle Squadron! Iron Duke! Marlborough! Revenge! Resolution!" She watched them sort out. By Jellico! Why am I cursed? "Alright... Third Battle Squadron! King George V! Centurion! Ajax! Audacious!" These girls seemed at least marginally together. "Fourth Battle squadron! Orion! St. Vincent! Collingwood! Vanguard!" These were her personal headaches. The others, the true actresses would work with Illinois and Recruit.

"Fifth Battle Squadron! Yamato! Nagato! Tirpitz! Valiant!" These girls seemed a bit more responsive if unsure of themselves. "And the rest of you! Sixth Battle Squadron! Arizona! Pennsylvania! Oklahoma! Nevada!" Again, the actresses fell in tight.

"Today! We will start with the basics of how to hold a formation!"

Over a little way, Atlantis smirked. HER girls were ALL professionals. They merely needed to practice their combat techniques and brush up on their deception methods. Rather than a ponderous formation, she had her girls gather in an informal circle.

"Hello. As you know, I am Atlantis. I have worked with some of you before. Others I do not know but we will hopefully get better acquainted. We are Armed Auxiliary Cruisers! We are the wolves in sheep's clothing! But this time! We will protect the sheep. You are not schoolgirls and I will not treat you as such. You are proud fighting ships. However, we may have to train to work with the..." She looked over at Centurion's charges with a smirk. "Less trained and professional. So we will work hard to make up for their shortcomings..."

A little bit away from these groups, Hosho sat calmly with her new adoptive daughters, including Hornet. Hornet was much closer to her new girls than the battleship types. It just made sense. She smiled as Mamari walked over to join them. "Welcome! Mamari! Or do I have to call you 'Hermes'?"

"Mamari is fine, Miss Hosho," she smiled.

"Good! Today we will start with the basics, my children! Carrier 101!"

Enterprise stood, staring at the various training groups disappointed. She could not even convincingly pretend to be a fighting ship. She was famous and named after the legendary Grey Ghost and her successor. The first Space Shuttle was named in her honor, in turn and she felt useless! She didn't notice as the battleship Nagato walked up to her.

"When trained, they will be a most convincing force!" She smiled as her daughter's battle squadron executed a tight battle turn, just as it should be done!

"Yeah."

"However, there are other means of fooling the enemy," Nagato said conversationally. "I understand you have a particular talent for voices?"

"Well, I guess I picked it up from Jimmy," Enterprise replied, not seeing where this was going.

"Excellent! Come with me to the radio room! We are going to teach you how to 'fleet'!"
 
The Bells of Ath 7
Yellowhammer

A/N - Well, there were several requests to see Father Jacques and the Cinnamon roll Miko have a nice chat. Also we find out a secret of Moulbaix. As always, I'd like to thank Sunhawk2 for Father Jacques. That said, this one, along with our prayers for a swift and complete recovery for his father is for Savato93

The Bells of Ath (VII)

Castle Moulbaix

22 August 2014

Spoiler: A Priest And A Miko Walk Into A Castle….

Toku walked with Father Jacques along a short hallway past the back stairs and then opened a door into the ballroom. "We are taking the scenic route that we did not earlier, Father."

The old priest smiled as he accompanied the katana spirit. "I see." He commented as he looked about, admiring the artwork and architecture as they walked along. "I've always loved old buildings."

Toku gave a serene smile and nod as they slowly walked through the ballroom, "Indeed, they have character. I must ask, you visited Japan in the past, yes?"

"A port visit to Yokosuka in the 1980s, a few to Sasebo in the 90s. Never was stationed there, however." He confirmed affably.

"So ka. If you had visited the Shrine of Hachiman in Kamakura you could have seen me. As I am appearing to you now as a miko and senior instructor in kendo and kyudo there, or my true body when I was put on display at festivals." Toku said in her serene and calm voice.

"Sadly I never was in port long enough to do much in the way of tourism. I was in Sasebo during Momijigari in 1990, but we were only in port long enough to refuel en route to the Gulf during Desert Shield." He shrugged, having managed a passable pronunciation of the festival name… for somebody who barely spoke any Japanese beyond a few phrases learned out of curiosity decades earlier.

Toku gave a small smile. "Well if you wish to rectify that lost opportunity, I would be delighted to show you the gardens of the Hachimangu in late September as the leaves change just before my duties at Kannazuki. Or, if you prefer, you could visit for Hanami in the spring for the cherry blossoms."

The old priest pursed his lips at the unfamiliar word. "Is that another temple from the Shrine of Hachiman?" He inquired.

Toku's smile widened. "Actually not. It literally translates to 'the month when there are no gods', and falls in October traditionally. All the kami leave their shrines to congregate at Izumo Grand Shrine in Shimane, ascend to the higher heavens, and stay there for the passage of the moon before returning to their shrines in Japan. In fact, I am actually a kami, the spirit of my blade, as Colombe and her daughters are the spirits of their items. In a theological sense, you understand." She waited for his nod.

"When Co-chan and her daughters visited me in Japan last month, Hachiman-dono personally manifested to perform a tea ceremony for us and deliver certain instructions. He warned Ehren to prepare herself for what turned into the events surrounding her kidnapping. Or at least I hope that is all, prophecies can be difficult to understand until after the events come to pass. As for Co-chan and I as His Blades, subordinates to him, we are to report to him in Izumo Grand Shrine for the month, along with Co-chan's father and our fellow Blade Muramasa-no-Norimune to receive further instructions and be rewarded for our efforts to protect innocents."

"I see," the old priest replied, pursing his lips thoughtfully before smiling. "If I were some of my old colleagues of whom I would never speak ill, as their faith was quite evident behind their strong opinions, I would have to make grand statements of fire and brimstone and condemnation." His eyes twinkled a bit. "So let us pretend that we've completed that step of the conversation. After all, throughout Scripture there are references to the existence of gods other than God."

He smirked, an expression that Toku rated as almost a full Juuichi Yosamu. "But as a military chaplain, I am well familiar with differing chains of command. So long as we all are serving the Light of Truth we are serving the Word." He continued.

Toku's own serene smile grew to one almost worthy of her beloved elder sister Masamune-no-Honjo as he spoke. She nodded. "A very valid way to see the situation we find ourselves in. I would venture to say that the sworn duty of a warrior to fight with valor and honor, but only in the service of good ends while protecting those weaker than him who need him to act as a shield against cruelty and oppression is as objectively good a command no matter if it is delivered to him by Hachiman-dono, Guan Yu, or St. Michael, yes?"

She winked and then continued. "During the Meiji Restoration, I rededicated myself to Bushido and began to look outside Japan for similar philosophies, since I had been informed in no uncertain terms that true honor and true bushido could be found other places than the Land of the Rising Sun. Other cultures, other nations, have their own gifts which are as great as my homeland. Something that you are no doubt more familiar than I am with your more extensive travels, since I have only ventured outside Japan in the last few months and even then only here and to Africa and Verdun."

Fr Jacques simply nodded in agreement. "There is a reason why theologians and priests wrestle so hard over seemingly trivial questions, because the great questions are so objectively obvious that they defy our…" smirking… smirking… "sophisticated and erudite analysis. I'll have to grace you with the history of the Agnus Dei(lamb of god) sometime, you'll probably have to chase down your eyeballs after they roll out of your head. And the less said about filioque("and from the Son/Nicene Creed) the better… but I digress."

Toku blinked in puzzlement at the Latin and mouthed 'filioque?' curiously to herself as they walked down the hall to the library. She waved her hand as they approached the door and it swung open to reveal walls of bookcases filling the octagonal tower with a staircase ascending to the floor above.

The old priest simply chuckled. "To be continued, yes?"

Toku gave a soft laugh and nodded. "Most certainly to be continued. I thought that you would find it of some value to know where to find Chi-chan and often Ehren when she is tanuki-napped to read to the young ones. Another good place is wherever Claire is, of course." Her blue green eyes twinkled in her serene face as they stepped inside briefly to look around. "Oh and there are a few good books inside, or so I have been told."

"If I may ask, are there any… delicate subjects in regards to the yokai I should know about? I would prefer to not stray into any minefields without prior warning." He asked as he gazed about appreciatively at the old books, looking far younger than his years at the sight of so much reading material.

Toku's serene smile widened minutely at his clear appreciation for the treasures available. She guided him to a pair of chairs in a conversation nook as the door behind them closed and clocked itself at her magical command. "The Tanuki are tricksters rather like the Kitsune fox-spirits. Sometimes malicious, especially to the foolish, arrogant, and cruel, but also benevolent to those who are good of heart. Ahh, their females are known for exceptionally large bosoms when they mature, just as their males have been known to use their testicles as drums or an umbrella since they are of a great size. Or such is the folklore, which in this case is accurate enough."

"In this case?" Fr Jacques questioned, although one eyebrow was twitching suspiciously along with his lips at the rather… earthy descriptions. He'd been around enough SEALs, however, to keep the natural reaction of clenching one's legs together at the description of testicle-drums to the barest twitch as well.

Toku's lips thinned as she nodded when he took the hook that she had inserted in her explanation. "For the Jorogumo, though, folklore is different. The name means 'Whore Spider', and the folklore are traditionally tales of a lone young man who meets a beautiful woman traveler, or a maiden living by herself. He falls for her grace and beauty, is drawn into her webs, she seduces him, and then she kills and eats him like a spider would a fly when she transforms to her true form that you saw at lunch, that of a half-woman half-spider as opposed to the human form that she shapeshifted into."

The miko took a deep breath. "At one time, centuries ago, this was true enough for the majority of the species. As always there were outliers, just as there are with humans or any other sentient being. However, recent events have changed that in positive ways, although that was certainly never intended. Are you aware of the Statute of Secrecy, Father?"

The elderly priest nodded "It's come up quite often, often in conjunction with some of Connie's antics… like when… well, that would be telling but suffice it to say that her conflicts with MACUSA were amusing when you were outside the blast radius."

Toku nodded. "Just so. The Statute came late to Japan, shortly after the West forced itself into Japanese affairs with Perry and others. In order to conform, and with extensive pressure from the ICW, the magical species of Japan were rounded up into reserves to keep them out of the public eye and prevent breaches. Including the Jorogumo."

Toku's voice became sad and compassionate. "Those Jorogumo who were not killed outright in what amounted to a purge that swept through Japan. The survivors were effectively forced to adapt or die. Those who could not temper their impulses to be magical serial killers of humans or yokai for food and for mates were identified and slain. The survivors like Miho's deceased mother and grandmother changed their culture, learned restraint, and are able to coexist with humanity. The few survivors who ate animals rather than humans by preference, and could control their baser impulses. I suppose what happened was like -- forgive me for the comparison -- selective breeding to create a specific breed of dog for a purpose." He listened with a sad expression upon his face.

Toku wiped tears from her eyes and then continued in a sad voice. "So in this case the folklore is largely inaccurate now and Jorogumo society is quite a bit healthier than it was. That said, they are hated and feared in many quarters because of their terrible past and the stories of them killing humans. One reason that they were not driven to extinction is certain body parts and fertilized eggs can be used in potions and magic so they were useful to the powers of the day. Misaki has been shielded from such abuses by her big sister, and the concern for her was what caused them to risk torture and death to escape the Reserve that they were in."

Toku gave a wan but proud smile as she finished. "Co-chan was incensed when she found out, as was Ehren-chan, as shocked and horrified as I was to realize what was going on. I should conclude that by making you aware that the non-magical Japanese government is aware of Miho's story at the highest levels and is acting to correct the situation for the Yokai. The Fujii family are serving as part of the staff on paper while my sisters and others in Japan act. In reality Co-chan is helping them adapt to freedom while providing them the resources to make good their own lives when they choose to. Enough money in a trust fund from Co-chan's pocket to open their own business once the Statute falls, with their clothing, education, room and board all paid for so they have stability to rebuild their lives until they are ready to depart. If they so choose freely. Just be warned, that if you gain their friendship, you can expect them to weave you a gift from their silk, be sure to show gratitude when they do; it is a symbol of extreme respect."

Fr Jacques had bowed his head near the start of Toku's explanation, and there was a suspicious moistness in his own eyes. "I certainly shall." He murmured, then crossed himself as he murmured a soft prayer for the suffering of innocents. "Even if some of their ancestors were monsters, it is a major teaching of the Church that the sins of the fathers do not descend upon the heads of the sons. And to abuse thinking beings in such a way is always a grave sin in the eyes of a merciful God."

He took a breath, his eyes firming and a hint of fire showing behind them. "Please convey to them that if they ever wish to speak of their experiences that I am available. It is one of the most important duties of a priest to bring healing of the soul, after all, as I am certain you are aware."

Toku nodded gratefully and yet with matching steel in her firm gaze as she spoke of the duties that both had chosen to be sanctified to perform. "Indeed it is one of the most important duties that I have as well. They have talked to me about certain matters, and I shall relay your kind offer to them."

She smiled serenely as the steel in her eyes was sheathed again as the topic changed. "As for the rest of it? As you saw at lunch, Jorogumo and Tanuki both have great skill at illusions, and Ehren-chan has some significant talent in the field. I know that Miho is subtly proud of her, and regrets that some of the more advanced techniques need more legs than the two that Ehren possesses to weave properly. I hope that this answers your questions on this matter. Shall we open your rooms now?"

"My thanks, and it does." He managed a smile. "So give this old man a moment…" He took one last walk around the library, sharp eyes quickly cataloguing a few interesting titles, then nodded to the katana-miko. "Lead on, my dear."

Toku smiled, gestured, and two of the leather-bound books he had expressed interest in floated behind her. "I believe that the bookshelf in your quarters may need these? To explain, while you should handle the books with respect as always, the enchantments on them make them far less fragile than their age otherwise would suggest. Some of them are in other languages, Co-chan is the one for the Hindu, Greek, Persian, and Arabic texts, while she and I are literate in Chinese should you need a translator."

Fr. Jacques' eyes sparkled as he tucked Jean-Francois' schoolboy copy of Donati's edition of the Summa Theologica for the theologians of the Dominicans under his arm. "I could stand a good book to read."

Toku smiled, nodded, and stood, walking to the door then down the hallway which had made an L-bend at the library. "Sadly, the organization of the library is somewhat lacking, and there is an additional floor to it over the room we were just in. You may wish to entice Chihiro to assist you by acting as a junior librarian. I recommend peanut butter treats as payment for her procuring the location of wanted titles. The best baker of the same is actually Ehren." Her eyes twinkled in her serene face. "I leave the specifics of such bartering as an exercise for the listener. I have a source for peanut-butter filled anpan(sweet roll), and no you shall not get it from me, Father!" Her voice at the end was teasing

"Ahhh, so I shall have to initiate her in the mysteries of the Dewey Decimal System then." His eyes twinkled merrily. "At least such is far easier to grasp than the subtle nuances of some other topics I've had the pleasure of trying to teach young people in the past." a smirk… a veritable smirk. "Remind me to someday regale you with tales from my days teaching seminary and having to gently correct young men as to their understanding of St Augustine."
Spoiler: Rooms For A Priest

Toku reached a door down the hall from the one for the chapel and opened it. "Your rooms, sir. As for me, I could tell my own stories of kendo instruction and the moral underpinnings of same."

She walked inside and gestured to the revealed sitting room. The room was cozy with a polished hardwood furniture set with blue velvet cushions. On the facing wall, a fireplace was flanked by window. To the left, a fresco painting of Luca Giordano's The Liberation of St. Peter dominated the wall, flanked by a bookshelf on one side and a small private altar in a niche with a crucifix carved from oak over it.
Spoiler: The Painting
the-liberation-of-st-peter.jpg


To the right a door led to a bathroom with a toilet, a cast iron tub and showerhead, and a second door to the bedroom with wardrobes, a dresser, an oaken prie-dieu(prayer desk) in red velvet, and a large four poster antique bed along with Fr. Jacques' luggage waiting for him. Persian wool rugs in bright geometric colors covered the hardwood floors, and a cast-iron steam radiator with a pair of framed religious prints over it completed the furnishings.
Spoiler: Prie-dieu
Antique-French-19th-Century-Oak-Prie-Dieu_9d6e8a56b6de49f88120fc0830174f80.jpg


Toku bowed to the priest as they walked through the suite. "Here are your rooms. Co-Chan and the others opened and renovated them while we waited for the Church to respond, according to her. Please let Kasuyu or Co-chan know if there are problems with the steam heat, water, or electricity, since that was all done last week to add this room to the castle's systems and has not been tested."

The old priest brightened visibly as he examined the rooms before bustling over to his valise and opening it. "My dear, would you be so kind as to assist me with something?" he asked as he drew out a set of folded linen cloths from within the large valise.

"Certainly!" Toku exclaimed and walked to his side. "How may I assist?"

"Could you assist me with placing these," He indicated the set of folded cloths, "onto the altar? It is always easier with a second set of hands." he smiled.

Toku smiled and assisted him to prepare the altar. She spoke as she finished. "I must tell you that if you wish for different furnishings, the castle attics are open to you and are quite extensive. In fact the imps and Miho enjoy visiting them to explore. Also, there is a set of Post Owls roosting in the Owlery at the top of the northeast tower who belong to Ehren. They will be used to transport mail to and from her at Hogwarts."

Fr Jacques shook his head, even as he busied himself with his valise to finish setting up the altar. "There is no need, this is far more luxurious than I am accustomed to in fact." He smiled slightly. "I would likely have been most content simply sleeping in a cot in the sacristy." He grinned a bit boyishly. "Wouldn't be the first time, right after Blood Week the rectory at the base in Boston was uninhabitable, so myself and six other chaplains set up cots in the sacristy of the base chapel. And I am happy to report that I do not snore."

"Neither do I, according to Co-chan. Supposedly." Toku replied with a serene smile.

"You do and your feet are cold in the mornings, To-chan!" came Colombe's voice from the door. She walked inside with a smug grin. "No problems with your rooms, Father?"

"Now, now, my dear child." Fr Jacques tutted with admirable aplomb. "I may be a priest sworn to celibacy and chastity, but even I know that it is impolite to infer that a lady snores."

"Fortunately, I am no lady but a Masamune." Toku replied evenly. "Is there something you needed, Co-chan?"

Colombe nodded and closed the door. "One of the keys on the ring has the Keys of St. Peter etched in them, would you please retrieve it and then touch it to the painting of St. Peter?" She gave a smug smirk. "I'd prefer not to give the Imps ideas about this little secret of the castle, they are a handful already."

The elderly priest drew out the keyring, picked out the indicated key, then with a slightly lifted eyebrow touched it gently to the painting on the wall. "Even at their most mischievous, children are a blessing from God, my child. And remember, you once were one yourself."

As the key touched the painting, it animated while the door to the hall locked itself. Saint Peter and the angel walked to the painted dungeon door, which opened at their approach. Toku watched with interest and murmured. "Some children never grow up but just grow old."

As Saint Peter passed through the dungeon door, it expanded and became solid, becoming an archway in the solid stone of the wall. A lantern with an Everburning Candle hung from a hook to illuminate the revealed passage and on the far side, a similar closed door awaited as the passage led to the left down a flight of stairs.

He blinked, then he blinked again, visibly intrigued. "Amazing."

Colombe said, "True, true, I did the enchantments for this during the French Revolution for my brother's priest. I would prefer to not have the Imps dig up my flowerbeds looking for more secret passages to play within."

"A noble aspiration, my dear, but do you truly think that they will spend this much time in a castle and not start imagining secret passages behind every tapestry and wall?" Fr Jacques replied with an amused expression on his face.

Toku sighed fondly. "Having seen them at play? I do not think so; I know so."

Colombe smirked and pointed. "The door there leads to the sacristy, the back of the walk-in linen cupboard in fact. To open any door in this complex, touch it with the key. Passing through this arch with the key or touching this key to the wall causes the wall to return to stone and the painting to become its base state. At the bottom, the passageway to the right at the T junction leads to a hidden door that is one way within a boulder in the forest. To the left...?"

She grinned as smugly as her aunt Juuchi would. "You have no doubt noticed the marble grand staircase? That stone is hollow inside with well-hidden peepholes and voice tubes under spells of non-detection that also muffle sounds from within. A small room awaits there with water ever-flowing through a basin to drink and relieve oneself, a small box with bread and cheese in stasis spells, a stone prie-dieu, a Bible, and a cot for a priest to rest upon while the soldiers search in vain. The barely obvious 'priest hole' you saw in the Sacristy is a diversion. Surely where one is and is empty, there cannot be two in that castle, non?"
 
[setgirl] Settling In - The Prank
KiMaSa

Settling In: The Prank


While eight hours a day were devoted to classes and training, and Nagato-chan had never even imagined just how complicated being a REAL battleship was! It made her admiration of her mother all the greater, Nagato's new daughter began to adjust to her new life. Frankly, she easily could see that she was the most boring person in the house. She was actually a bit intimidated. It was an odd feeling, like the lone mortal in a house of gods.

But today was special. She was supposed to meet with Yamato-chan and the other Japanese setgirls down at the base pool. Their new moms had been as livid as Nagato when they found out that none of the girls even owned a swimsuit, let alone had been taught to swim. Again, a skill which their commander had deemed 'unnecessary' to their duties. It was time to remedy that. Of course, Nagato was able to provide one of her swimsuits. Nagato chan blushed a bit as she put it on, somehow it felt too big for her despite her mother assuring her that it fit, perfectly. But Nagato chan was nothing if she was not determined to work hard and be even more like her mother. At least as much as possible.

With Hornet-chan assisting, the girls were introduced to the shallow end of the pool. Though initially fearing that she would simply be washed away, Nagato chan trusted her mother and got in. She began to remember the feel of the big water tank at Toei. That felt strange because she remembered being with more than just Amagi-chan but it also reminded her that she was in no danger of sinking or being swept away. Hoppou chan stood at deckside, watching her new sister, privately making notes. It was almost time for lunch and Regalia would be joining them, especially after the incident with Regalia disembarking her executive officer and completely forgetting to eat at all! There would not be a repeat of this. Briefly, Hoppou wondered how this worked for Nagato-chan. She would have to send one of her construction imps to see what he could find out. But for now, Hoppou had an introduction to make.

"Sister? Come meet Hoppou granddaughter! Regalia! This is Nagato chan! Sister, this is Regalia!"

Regalia bowed in front of Nagato-chan. "Is great aunt broken, grandmother?" She could detect no sign of boiler activity, no electronic emissions... It was odd.

Hoppou shook her head. "No. She is not broken. She is different, much like you are."

"Hello, Regalia" Nagato-chan said. In truth, she did feel a little broken... or rather... simply unfinished. She knew what her mother told her but still, she couldn't help feeling like a charcoal sketch of a Rembrandt.

"Regalia is learning to become a repair ship, after a brave but very foolish effort to save one of her aunts. We are VERY fortunate that we had two girls to fix and not two to mourn. But that is why Regalia is learning to do these things safely!"

"I promise, grandma! Never again!"

"Good!" Hoppou answered firmly. "And also, Regalia will take note that it is time to eat!"

"Yes, grandma!"

Hoppou's mother nodded firmly and looked to Yamato and Hosho. "I think the girls did very well today! Let's go get some lunch." after a moment, Nagato noticed that Harry was looking very intently at his mother and new sister with mischief in his eyes.

"What are you thinking, Harry?" She asked her son with a raised eyebrow.

"Just that Ashigara is making curry again."

Nagato winced at that. Ashigara's curry was tasty but the spice was just too hot for Nagato to handle. But Harry had an idea.



***


About ten minutes later, all hands watched Nagato and Harry walk into the mess. "Ah! Curry!" Nagato smiled and took a large helping. As everyone cringed, they watched as she offered some to her daughter who politely declined.

"No thank you, mama! Harry promised to make me lunch and I don't want to miss that!"

"Alright then, dear," Nagato replied and demolished three bowls of curry. "I don't know why I'm so hungry today. At least the curry is mild."

"Mild?" Ashigara said, tasting her curry in confusion. It seemed spicy enough but three bowls of The Hungry Wolf's Special Curry should simply have been WELL beyond Nagato's ability to handle. Maybe it had to do with the secretary ship's last refit. Or maybe... Ashigara began grabbing spices to give her curry enough bite. Soon, sweat was coming off Ashigara's forehead. She took a taste...

"GAH! FIRE! IT BURNS!!!!" She began to drink water as she tried to smother the raging inferno.

"Milk for that, dear." Hosho admonished, passing her a tall glass of dairy that smothered the fire like foam on avgas.

Finally, Ashigara stopped burning and coughing enough to see everyone grinning at her. "I see even the Wolf has her limit!" Nagato observed as she took her headband back from her daughter, handing back the purely decorative one that Nagato-chan had. "Now, Harry. I believe you were going to make lunch!"
 
A Duet Under The Chestnut Trees [future, Tombstone]
Yellowhammer

A Duet Under The Chestnut Trees

Passy Cemetery, Paris

Centuries In The Future


There are many who rest eternally here.

Heroes.

Villains.

Sinners.

Saints.

The Mighty.

The Meek.

Poets.

Artists.

And last but certainly not least, there are those blessed with the gift of music.

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

Among the graves, some stand out.

A writer has a tomb shaped like her studio.

And then there are a pair of enchanted statues that stand together flanking a funeral urn engraved with just a G-clef that contains the mingled ashes of husband and wife.

To one side, a messy haired young man with a sparkle in his carved eyes and a happy smile upon his face plays the piano from memory in his suit.

Fingers of warm bronze caress keys of onyx and ivory marble in the eternally frozen instant between the notes that he plays.

His face is alight with the passion and love and joy and life of the music that he plays as he looks at the other statue.

Meeting his eyes, a young woman in a sculpted onyx dress, matching her short ebon-black hair, gives an equally happy smile filled with matching passion and love and joy and life.

Ivory marble fingers are frozen in their gentle eternal caress of the bow and the strings of a bronze violin, a violin the exact color of the young man's hair that she plays for eternally.

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

As the stories say, when the chestnut trees bloom, the gentle rain falls to veil the City of Lights, and the Eiffel Tower lights up as day turns to night, that is when these magically preserved statues play the most heart-breakingly beautiful duet that the passer-by shall ever hear in his life.

The notes of Claire de Lune whisper through the air in perfect harmony, filled with mystery and passion and joy and life and love and longing.

It is impossible to say where the piano ends and the violin begins then as the soft moonlight illuminates the statues in their endless duet.

As the stories say, when their duet plays, Claude Debussy, who wrote Claire de Lune and rests nearby, smiles within his grave and thinks of a perfect moonlight night with his fingers on the keys of a piano as the moonlight turns the water of the pond that he looks at the purest argent.

When their duet plays, all the canines of Paris look toward the figures eternally playing with knowing looks of love and respect in the eyes of Man's Best Friend.

And who are these statues?

The passer-by will read a simple inscription.

ANTONIO STRADIVARIUS POTTER ---------- CLAIRE BOSENDORFER DU CHASTELER

DEPARTED ON THE HONEYMOON
 
[setgirl] Central Casting
KiMaSa

I'm going to post some more because I need to smile.


Central Casting


The subsequent days found the latest hard plucked fruits of the Hollywood program arriving. Lieutenant Kirby and Leftenant Chalmers were told that they might get a couple more subs or so but no one expected anything larger. The history of film was vast but the naval genre not quite as large as some would think.

As it turned out, Chalmers was getting eight of the new arrivals placed under his command. The biggest was Giulio Cesare, she would be rooming with Valiant. Three submarine sets: U-96, U-47, and HMS Sea Tiger. SMS Blucher was a bit of an eccentric, and three would be merchant ships: Jervis Bay, City of Glouchester, and San Demetrio. Lieutenant Kirby, for his part, greeted USS Juneau and USS Marblehead and three carriers: Saratoga, Yorktown, identified as Yorktown 1.5 and a very quiet Japanese Carrier. There were also a couple of Catgirls. Airships, he corrected: Macon and Los Angeles.

"You're Saratoga?" Kirby asked, greeting the tallest of his new charges.

"Yes, sir! built by MGM in 1931 for 'Hell Divers!' I made Clark Gable a star!"

"I thought that the film was all footage of the real ship?"

"Well, you can't exactly set a prop F8C-4 Helldiver on fire right next to the island, or reenact lowering a zeppelin onboard. There were some closeup shots where Wallace Beery had to run in and out of the island from and to an 'idling aircraft' that had to be done with sets too. Not like DiveBombers with Errol Flynn."

"Well, I would think you'd be joining the other Saratogas?" He said, referencing the actual CV-3 and CC-3, who were happily engaged to their dearest.

"I'd rather not be a third, cardboard wheel, sir."

"Understood." He turned to the second carrier. "You're Yorktown?"

"Yes, sir."

"Why is it Yorktown 1.5?"

"Well, Yorktown 1.0 is CV-5. I played a lot of her roles. But I LOOK like CV-10, which is Yorktown 2.0. So I figure, split the difference! Anyway! I'm here and ready to help!"

"Glad to have you." Kirby turned to the last carrier "And, You have two names listed. But both are scratched out?"

"Hiranamu and Shinaru. Both are equally wrong. So it really doesn't matter," she replied quietly. "I was in a few films all looking a little different but all so audiences could see me blow up. So it really doesn't matter."

Kirby glanced over at Hosho, who bore a rare look of consternation. He was aware that names like Hiranamu were gibberish. Obviously, this could not be allowed to stand. Briefly, he considered Koryu and Ryukaku. Both had been names that were erroneously reported by Naval Intelligence early in 1942 but he rejected these as he thought of the new Soryu class submarines he had read about. One name suggested itself from that list.

"From now on, you're Zuiryu. Miss Hosho?"

"Zuiryu?" Hosho smiled. "I think that is a good choice. Now, Zuiryu, come! I will teach you many things! The most important thing is that you are beautiful and valuable, my child. Now come and I will introduce you to your sisters!"

As Hosho led the surprised girl away, Saratoga smiled at her new CO. "That was good thinking Lieutenant!"

"A good self-image is important, don't you think?" 'And with hers, I'm just glad we got rid of Uehara before she arrived.'

"By the way, skipper," Saratoga asked. "Is it true that Nagato is here? I've seen some of her work and I'm a bit of a fan!"

"She's Secretary Ship here," Kirby confirmed.

"Oh! I wasn't meaning her, though she's pretty cool too. I mean Nagato who did Tora, Tora, Tora. I heard about her and her partner staying in a potential combat zone to look after those kids! Iron men and wooden ships, hell! She must have ALL the steel and brass!"

Kirby chuckled. "She's here. You'll meet her soon enough."

"Great! She's a real pro at this business!"

"So, Admiral?" Los Angeles posed, one furred ear turned down.

"It's Lieutenant," He said mildly. "What can I do for you, Los Angeles?"

"Seeing how the original ZR-3 was used as an experimental carrier, do I go with Macon and the other carrier types or will I room with Juneau and Marblehead as a 'scout'?"

"I think I want to keep you and Macon together, so you two plus Saratoga and Yorktown. Juneau and Marblehead will get the room next door."

"Somebody, hide the video player," Yorktown groaned. "Those two will be watching All-Purpose Catgirl Nuku Nuku till the wee hours."

"It's 'All-Purpose Cultural Catgirl Nuku Nuku', thank you." Macon corrected.

"To-MAY-to... Po-TAH-to! Whatever!"

And so, not including Training group Atlantis, which had never been part of the Morale and Spirit Project, Yokosuka was now home base for fifty-eight actresses. One of them, HMS Centurion, was a REAL battleship in every sense of the word. Seventeen more were actual cargo ships. One was a skilled human actress, and thirty-nine were setgirls. Everyone expected a few more minor players might turn up but little else, though Hornet had heard Commodore and Recruit talking about 'Bobs' and how much of a job they were going to be to handle and just what were they going to do with them!

The girls in Yokosuka were a generally friendly lot, Saratoga thought the next day as she sat in the mess hall and munched a hamburger. Hornet chuckled in amusement as Sara pulled a little figurine from her pocket and set it next to her plate.

"What's that?"

"Oh! My Nagato figure! She brings me good luck!"

Hornet looked around and noticed Nagato chan and the other Japanese setgirls come in from swimming class with Hosho mama. Yorktown grinned as Hornet called out to them.

"Over here!"

Zuiryu nodded and led the others over. It just seemed safer to sit with other setgirls, rather than with REAL carriers like Zuikaku or Kaga. She also wondered why Soryu san had called Zuiryu the 'Reverse Aso" and whether that was good or bad. As they sat down, Nagato chan noticed the little figure by Saratoga's plate.

"What's that?"

Much to Hornet's amusement and expectation, Saratoga flushed as she hurriedly snatched the figure up and put it away. "I um... I'm starting a collection!"

"And just how many figures do you have in your collection, Sara chan?" Yorktown asked, grinning.

"Um... One."

Most of the girls laughed as Nagato chan smiled warmly while Sara blushed bright red. Then Hornet leaned back and gestured as Battleship Louisiana walked in with Shinano. "Ladies... Let us contemplate our existence for a moment. Ask yourself, how it is, that Louisiana and I both exist. But while I was crafted in the form of a Yorktown class carrier... If ever so incompletely... Louisiana is based solely on the rough plans for a ship. Not a single ounce of metal laid down and while SHE is an actual battleship, I am only a pretend carrier?"

"Because of intent," Amagi pointed out. "We were never intended to be more than facsimiles."

"Perhaps," Hornet conceded. "But I wonder... IF one were to supply intent, could enough magical potential cause a set type to manifest as a real ship type?"

"Possibly, but the known instances of completely paper ships manifesting involved sacrificing lives," Amagi replied. "That's a high price."

Hornet nodded. "True on that."

"So? Why aren't there more of us?" Oklahoma asked.

"Well! Think about it. Sara... Look at Nagato chan here." Hornet indulged in a little bit of teasing as she lectured, smiling as Sara again blushed looking at the Daughter of the Big Seven. " She was about as complete a set as you could imagine! Except for the time factor, she's a textbook case, and the wizards fixed the time thing. On the other hand, Deutschland and Admiral Scheer went over to Pinewood studios with high hopes of calling, I think her name was supposed to be 'Lindendorf'. They got nothing. They had a nice model. They had actors, but the only full size set was an office that could have been on a ship or shore base or anywhere. Nothing to define a 'ship' Same thing with the Queen Elizabeth in all those Italian frogman movies. A wall with a name plaque and a logbook just wasn't enough."

"What about me?" Zuiryu asked.

"You're the culmination of the same vague idea repeated sufficiently to give form. Each time, a bit more of you."

"Unlike Enterprise," Saratoga agreed. "Two movies filled with footage and you would think if I'M here, there should be an E too!" She looked over at the starship Enterprise. "No offense, I mean."

"None taken."

"Thanks," She replied. "But I mean. Both ships had HUGE amounts of movie film shot and that color work on Dive Bomber was BEAUTIFUL! But they never needed a set. Just a backscreen where they ran film of the real thing."

"Unless it's a case like Valiant?" Yorktown suggested. "Maybe their nets aren't being cast wide enough?"

"Could be," Hornet allowed. "It could simply be a case of finding enough critical mass."

"So, are there any more like us out there? You figure?"Arizona asked.

Hornet nodded. "I think at least one more big player and if we can find her, she'll already be in Japan," Hornet said looking right at Nagato-chan.
 
[Summer Harvest Trip] Dinner time
Harry Leferts

"I'm done, Natsumi-Chan."

Jumping a little, Natsumi rapidly blinked as she looked up from the book to find Harry standing there shirtless, hair still damp from his shower with a towel hanging over his shoulders, "O-oh, okay, Harry-Chan."

More than a little curious, Harry raised an eyebrow and looked at the title of the old, leatherbound volume that the Kitsune was holding, "Huh... something wrong, Natsumi-Chan?"

Lightly blushing, the teenage girl shook her head as she noted some of the shipgirls in the room giving her interested looks, "Nothing's wrong, Harry-Chan. I..." Pausing for a moment, her gaze went back to the page that she had been looking at, "Um, I found this book on the shelves and noticed it had a lot of art in it so I was looking through it."

Walking around the rocking chair that his friend was in, Harry looked over her shoulder and blinked some at the sight of a ink drawing that was on the page. It was obviously a rough sketch... if one could call rough something that looked like it was from an art museum. Said drawing was of a young, messy haired shirtless man leaning against a tree, looking down at a centauress in the water with a smile. Said female Centaur also had a small smile on her face as she looked up at him, torso bare like his. Said drawing, unlike most, was not enchanted however.

For a few moments, the teenage wizard looked at it before slowly nodding, "Huh, that must be one of the drawings of Joachim, my ancestor." Looking at Natsumi, Harry smiled a little, "Remember, Natsumi-Chan? I did say that he was an artist as well as a hunter."

Only nodding, Natsumi flashed him a smile, "You did, actually." Turning one of the old, vallum pages, she revealed another drawing, this one of what had to be Elm carrying Joachim upon her back. He had his arms around her human waist, fingers interlocked with his body pressed against her back with one of her hands covering his. Both of them looking at each other with expressions of love, "There's so many drawings of him and Elm... or just her in here."

Leaning against the rocking chair, Harry nodded a little, "Well, from what I read, he did claim her as his muse in regards to his art. And it was mentioned that he made quite a few paintings and drawings of her, and even used a spell to make copies of said drawings to be hung..." Pausing, he rubbed his chin some, "I'm pretty sure that they're somewhere around actually."

Slowly nodding at that, Natsumi had a slight flash of inspiration as she turned to one picture in particular. It was of Elm armoured up for war alongside Joachim on her back. Her equine portions were covered in horse barding. The peytral resembled a roaring dragon, the wings stretching back along her body, but in a way that Joachim's legs would be protected by the thick metal as well. Her hindquarters were protected by metal plates that had the Potter coat of arms embossed upon them, declaring her alliegence for all to see.

The Kitsune was still amused by the fact that rather than a magpie, the bird on the coat of arms was a raven, which still was a bird that collected shiny objects though she raised her eyebrows at the fox that was there as well.

Besides the normal barding, one could also see strips of metal over her legs, as well as studded leather that covered the portions of her equine body unprotected by metal armor, likely enchanted. Absolutely no part of said body was left unprotected, which said much about how much the Potters, and Joachim in particular, valued her. Not to mention, her humanoid body also had armor in the form of plate with a shield on one arm, and a lance held in the other. Though Natsumi also noted a heavy mace at her side, obviously to be used with her much stronger than human strength.

On her back, Joachim was also armored though he had a buckler in one hand, and a sword in the other. The two had expressions full of protectiveness at each other as they gazed into each other's faces, but with grins that Natsumi recognized. And how could she not, as she had seen similar ones before on Harry's face when the chips were down and he was gazing at her. Needless to say, the picture cut a dashing one, of a lord and his female centaur knight.

For a few moments, Natsumi looked down at the drawing in thought before a smug, foxy smirk appeared on her face, "Harry-Chan?" Getting a hum from him, she glanced up at his face and gestured at the picture, "Would you happen to have a copy of this picture?"

Rubbing his chin, Harry considered the question for several moments, "Maybe? I'd need to check..." Then he gave her a curious look, "Why?"

Grin on her face, the Kitsune barely kept from snickering, "Well... I thought, perhaps, that Ayase-Chan might enjoy the picture. She does like the tales of Samurai and the like, and Knights are the European equivalent..."

While he suspected that there was more to it than just that, Harry slowly nodded, "Well, I can see if we have a copy. And maybe put it in her room or something." When she hummed, he raised an eyebrow, "Anyways, what about the picture had your attention?"

Just glancing at the others, Natsumi nodded a little, "I was using an Onmyoudo spell, one that lets you glimpse at history behind an object which I learned from someone." Harry simply nodded as he could guess who that was, though he blinked at the blush that appeared on Natsumi's face, "Though, um, it showed me the event in question that it was modeled off of. Because the emotion from said time was so strong, it seeped into the drawing of that time."

Considering that, the fourteen year old wizard smiled a little, "Huh... now that could be neat." Suddenly, remembering what some of the pictures likely were, as well as the one that Natsumi was looking at, a blush sprang up on his own face, "Um, though maybe one should be a bit more careful..."

That only made the Kitsune nod a little.

Moments later, Harry shook off his blush and looked at her, "By the way... could I ask to borrow your time turner, Natsumi-Chan?" Seeing her ears flick in curiosity, he gave her a chuckle, "I want to get started on dinner, so..."

Understanding, Natsumi smiled back at him and placed the book aside. Then, she reached to the chain around her neck and handed the time turner to him, "Here you go, Harry-Chan. I'll see you at dinner then."

With a nod, the fourteen year old boy placed the chain around his neck and paused for a moment. Quickly, he leaned down and kissed her, which surprised the Kitsune for a moment before she closed her eyes and leaned into it. When he pulled back, Harry had a smile on his face, "Thanks, Natsumi-Chan."

Slowly blinking, Natsumi gave him a smile, "You're welcome, Harry-Chan. See you... well, in a few hours for you."

Lightly laughing, he nodded before walking out the door.

Gently closing the book, Natsumi put it carefully back on the small bookcase it had come from, 'I have to admit... that was an interesting vision.'

Humming in the back of her mind, Tamamo chuckled, 'Indeed it was, Natsumi. And it showed more of the past of Our Harry's family. Most intriguing...' A sly, teasing tone entered her voice as she continued, 'Especially certain aspects~'

Needless to say, the younger Kitsune remembered said aspects and flushed, 'ERO-KITSUNE!' Just getting a laugh, she huffed before gathering up her clothes. However, Natsumi then paused as she looked at the others, "So... how are we doing this exactly? In what order?"

From where she was, Hachi just looked over at her with a bemused look, "Well, we are just taking showers for now, the baths come later. And since we're all girls..." She gave a small shrug, "I mean, the shower is big enough for most of us."

Each of them considered that before nodding and gathering up their clothes as they walked into the bathroom together.

It was not long before they all left the room, refreshed some and their old clothing in the hamper to be gathered up later and washed. Partway down the hall, the door opened to the room being shared by Ayaka, Usagi, and Yae with the lone human teen coming out first. Her own hair somewhat damp, the Kendoka smiled a little and bowed some, "Are you ready for dinner as well, Natsumi-San?"

Only nodding, Natsumi gave a chuckle, "Hai, and I'm looking forward to Harry-Chan cooking." Licking her lips, the Kitsune smiled a little, "I can't wait..."

More than a little curious, Yae tilted her head to the side, "Is Harry-San a good cook then? And... what sort of food is going to be there?"

Bright smile on her face, Iku patted her stomach some, "Actually? Harry-Chan is a very good cook! He's been doing some work in the Mess Hall for years now."

Eyes wide, the teenage human blinked, "He's worked in the Mess Hall? And for years? Gozaru..."

Adjusting her glasses, Hachi hummed, "Hai, and he's cooked some great meals." Thoughtful, she gave a hum, "Since we're in Britain, however, Harry-Chan is likely to cook British dishes. And those are pretty good, though some can sit a bit heavy on your stomach."

Suddenly, Uesugi spoke up as she joined them, "Hopefully not much meat. I'm like Usagi-Chan in that I am a vegetarian."

That got her a pat on the shoulder from Nobu who pointed at her friend with her free hand, "She's Buddhist after all and really into that no meat stuff. Not even fish." Then, she grinned and jerked her thumb to herself, "Unlike me, I don't mind meat."

Lips twitching as the other Warlord shrugged off the former Oda's hand with a grumble, Usagi shook her head, "Actually? Harry-Chan's pretty good for stuff like that as you've seen. I mean, he cooked up some good stuff before." She then licked her lips, "I'm looking forward to whatever he might make."

Meanwhile, Natsumi noted the others had joined them and they resumed walking towards the stairs to reach the dining room. Becoming thoughtful, she looked towards Uesugi with a slight frown, "Um... I know about Usagi-Chan and such, and I've seen you with milk, but... what about eggs and dairy?"

Just nodding, Uesugi chuckled, "Either is fine, though I prefer eggs to be part of baking more than anything else."

Everyone simply nodded in agreement before they continued to chat about various things. Of course, as they were going down the stairs, Ayaka spoke up, "By the way, does everyone have their swimsuits? Because I have mine on under my clothes for when we go to the pool out back." Then, she grinned a little, "And I can't wait to try out the jaccuzi that you mentioned, Natsumi-Chan."

Hands behind her head, the Kitsune snorted a little, "You're not the only one, Ayaka-Chan. I can't wait either." Then, she gave a small shrug, "We're probably going to watch some movies after though. I got some DVDs of old Ungaikyō Films movies from Chichi-ue."

Confused as the other Yokai lit up and began chatting, Okita blinked some, "Um... Ungaikyō Films? Never heard of them..."

Kaku turned to them and made a motion with his hands, "They're an old magical film company from the 1970s and lasted until the 1990s. Mostly, they made films using shapeshifting Yokai to resemble characters of popular No-Maj media and used magic to construct sets for them as well as illusions and the like. They were pretty popular because, well, most of us Yokai and a number of magicals spend a lot of time in the non-Magical side of the world." For a moment, he grimaced, "They were shut down during one of the crackdowns in 1995. But enough of their stuff is still around that some people transferred the films over to DVD."

With a nod, Natsumi smiled some, "I got their Space Battleship Yamato live action film as well as Super Dimensional Fortress Macross."

For several moments, Nobu just stared at her before wiggling a finger in her ear. Pulling out, she gave her friend a look, "You said live action, right?" At the amused nod, she blinked, "You mean to tell me... they made a live action Super Dimensional Fortress Macross film!?"

Unable to help herself, Ayaka laughed, "Hai, they did!" She made a motion with her hands as they continued to walk, "They even made scaled down sets of the actual Macross, one for when transformed and one when not. They did stuff like use Kudagitsune transformed into the characters while normal Kitsune played the Zentraedi and Maltrandi for scenes where the two met for example. Heck, they even had a few Zentraedi ships constructed too for scenes and stuff."

Jaw dropped, Okita boggled a little, "Holy shit... so they used illusions and everything?!"

Humming, the lone Tanuki placed his hand behind his head, "Hai, as well as transfiguration for the sets and the like."

Suddenly, Uesugi frowned some even as she crossed her arms, "Wait... is that sort of thing even legal? I mean... considering things?"

Only waggling her hand, Usagi shook her head, "Grey area. I mean, you couldn't exactly contact the copyright owners for permission. But... they still sent them money owed for usage of their series, even if said owners never really figured out where they came from." She then gave a small shrug, "They were pretty great and even ran a few theatres... until the Diet shut them down for 'Threatening the Statute'. Most just figured that it was due to the fact that they might have pissed someone off. Though some people have remnants of their sets."

That last bit was said with a look towards Natsumi who sighed and gave a look back, "Our Chichi-ues are Otaku. Do you expect any better from them?" Then, she turned back to the humans of the group as well as the interested shipgirls, "Anyways, they actually followed the actual stories of the series closely, with some bits cut out. The Macross one is more a trilogy combining the series into three films. Still awesome though."

Not long after, the conversation died off as they entered the dining room and sat down at the large table there. Moments after they did so, a humming Harry came out of the kitchen, "Hey, everyone. Hope that you're hungry."

Even as they answered him with grins, Nobu and the other humans of the group blinked as plates came floating out... with pies on them.

Scratching her head, the former Uniter of Japan frowned, 'Pies?'

However, Harry had his arms spread wide with a grin, "Panpakapan! Steak and ale pies for dinner!"

Taiyang cocked her head to the side curiously, "Steak pies... Harry-San? What are those?"

With a chuckle, the wizard gestured the pies to place themselves in front of each person except for Usagi and Uesugi, "They're pies with steak and beef gravy inside of them. I used ale as well." Then, he turned to the two not yet served and two more plates came out and placed themselves in front of them, "And for you, Woolton pies."

Eyes widening some, Usagi rubbed her hands together, "Woolton pies... those are the vegetable ones, right? Where the vegetables are in vegetable gravy?"

Grin on his face, Harry nodded some, "Hai, that's right." With a final gesture, a pitcher came out and set itself on the table, "And butterbeer to drink as well."

Now, it was Nobu's turn to rub her hands together, "Okay, I can't wait! Let's dig in, itadakimasu!" Using a fork, she took a piece of the pie which had some steam on it and blew on it. Once it was cool enough, the former warlord put it into her mouth and closed her eyes happily, 'Ah... so good.' Opening her eyes, she turned to Okita and nearly laughed as said former Shinsengumi had her eyes closed in bliss as she happily chewed, 'And it looks like Okita-Chan is liking it as well."

Eyebrows furrowing, Yae took a goblet filled with butterbeer, though she blinked as said container was an odd silvery color, and took a sip before blinking and taking another, "Mmm... tastes like that... like that American dessert?" Furrowing her eyebrows, she nodded, "Butterscotch! That's what it tastes like, Gozaru!"

Looking at her, Okita took a sip of her own drink and her eyebrows rose, "Hai, it does taste like that!"

It went without saying that dinner was soon demolished and everyone waited as Harry went back into the kitchen. Not long after, he returned with a plate that had fluted glasses on it, the top being wide. But what caught the attention of everyone there, which included Taigei, Ryuuhou, and the others working in the kitchen, was what was inside of it. It was a creamy dessert that was coloured pink with swirls of red.

Upon setting down the plate, Harry began to hand out the desserts, "And now for the raspberry fool, made with the fresh raspberries that we picked."

Okita had to rely on everything to wait until everyone was served before she picked up her spoon and dipped it into the creamy dessert. Placing it in her mouth, those around her swore that there were sparkles in the air by her head as she flushed, 'Sooo good...'

More than a few of them snickered at that before turning to their own dessert. However, they agreed... it was delicious.
 
The Bells of Ath 8
Yellowhammer

A.N. -- Well, I hope that all the readers enjoy this one as much as Sunhawk and I enjoyed writing it! We have Old Master Prints, gross violation of the traffic laws by the Pastor's chauffeur, and some explanation of what is going on between two people becoming friends.

The Bells of Ath (VIII)

Castle Moulbaix

25 August 2014

Spoiler: A Conversation Over Coffee

"Is there a problem, Father?" Colombe glanced at the somewhat visibly shaken priest as he entered the kitchen for breakfast.

Past her at the stove, Kasuyu sipped Navy Coffee from the newly dedicated pot for it from his 'Axe Man' mug. He raised an eyebrow at the taste before rumbling thoughtfully and flipping a pancake.

As for the rest of the castle residents?

The Imps were happily eating apple preserves on toast.

Claire was buttering and toasting bread for everyone while she hummed Johann Strauss' Wine, Women, and Song between drinks of her Kaisermelange.

Nongqawuse and Miho were talking quietly as they prepared another rasher of bacon that had been brought up from the freezer.

A very bleary-eyed Ehren with exceptionally bad 'bed head' was yawning and scratching herself under one arm as she stared at the espresso machine filling her second cup of Kaffee with the expression of a man lost in the desert seeing an oasis.

In other words, it was a normal Monday morning in Moulbaix.

"Nothing serious, merely finally realizing where I'd seen those prints before that are in the chambers you so kindly provided me. I confess that I never would have thought I would sleep in the same room as Rembrandt prints." the old priest said, as he poured himself a cup of good, honest Navy coffee.
Spoiler: The Priest's Prints
christ-preaching-the-hundred-guilder-print-1648-rembrandt-van-rijn-F3EM6K.jpg


Rembrandt_-_The_Three_Crosses_(third_state)_-_WGA19085.jpg


Colombe blinked and cocked her head at his words as she puzzled out the meaning.

The franc then visibly dropped when she turned whiter than the glass of milk she was drinking. "Rembrandts? Truly? I picked them out of Papa's collection of old prints because of the subject matter of Christ's ministry and the Crucifixion." She spoke in a shocked voice as her mind visibly whirled. "Papa loved prints and came back with them every time he took a trip; Ehren picked out three of his for her room. I never paid much attention to them despite Papa and Ian both trying to get me interested...."

With that, Colombe turned with rather wild eyes to boggle at a Prussian Zombie who was now showing faint signs of resurrection as Ehren placed her now empty cup under the spigot and punched in the command to refill. Ehren yawned and replied absently to her mother's frantic question as she watched the Schwarze Bohne des geistigen Lebens(Black bean of spiritual life) pour into her cup again. "Ja. Der Meisterstiche(Master Prints). Ritter, Tod, und Teufel, Melencolia I, und Der heilige Hieronymus im Gehäus alles von Albrecht Dürer." (Knight, Death, and the Devil, Melencolia I, and St. Jerome in the Case all - by Albrecht Dürer)

Upon hearing that her youngest daughter had original copies of the three most famous masterwork prints of one of the German Old Masters hanging over her desk unknown to her before that instant, Colombe did the only rational thing that she could.

She fainted on the spot.
-----------------

Enroute To Brussels
Spoiler: A Drive To Brussels

Most people Fr Jacques' age would be trembling in terror, gripping the armrest, and screaming for the insane driver -- who he had seen drink six cups of coffee during breakfast -- to slow down.

Most people his age hadn't been in cars driven by shipgirls.

For nearly all of them speed limits were gentle suggestions easily ignored, lane markings vague guidelines, and traffic laws for the weak. But for some of them speed limits were seen as challenges... as were lanes... and roads... and other motorists. And don't get the good Father started on some of the sailshipgirls who seemed to think driving in a straight line for too long was a Bad Thing and instinctively 'tacked' all over the road.

In comparison to all of that, Ehren's driving was… soothing. Fast, yes, but the level of displayed skill more than made up for it.

Besides, he was a priest, he had faith that they wouldn't in fact hit that car in the opposite lane when Ehren darted like a jackrabbit that had just consumed its own weight in amphetamines around a Polish semi that evidently thought the speed limit was 20 kph shortly before merging onto the main Lille-Brussels highway.

Or that if they did, it would be because it was their time to report to God anyway.

Ehren smoothly slid her mother's Audi R8 coupé 5.2 FSI quattro (based on Audi's Le Mans race car) back to her proper lane and accelerated once more like a German rocket. She then spoke in her cool, precise voice. "Do you mind listening to music as we drive?"

His voice was placid, cheerful even. "Of course not, my child. Music is one of God's greatest gifts to man."
Spoiler: Ehren's Driving Music

"Danke." She gave another lip twitch and punched a control on the dashboard. He was somewhat unsurprised when a piano playing a frenetic piece was what she selected. Ehren tapped a finger on the steering wheel in time with the music and she actually cracked something that might be a very small smile.

Father Jacques had his suspicions about the identity of the pianist -- singular -- playing that piano duet piece.

"Did you know that Constitution actually prefers that style of music to what most people assume she enjoys?" he mused with clear mischief in his voice. "People forget that frigates were the fast and aggressive ships of their day. Many more modern girls have learned to their regret not to challenge her at Guitar Hero."

Ehren chuckled wryly. "Ach so. Like Jean Bart then." Her lips twitched again as she spoke in that cool precise voice. "I met her during a minor contest of skill across the length of southern England when I was sent to London on business. She is quite skilled on her motorcycle." She then paused for a beat to aggressively pass a car before resuming. "Mutti was rather unamused when I notified her of that in my report and muttered darkly about the Curse of the Du Chasteler Daughters that apparently her Papa had placed upon her."

Fr Jacques just chuckled. "Well, I do know it is said that daughters are God's way of punishing parents for the shenanigans that they got up to when they were children." he replied with a laugh.

Ehren gave a small lip twitch and responded dryly. "Some of Mutti's questions during my debrief after I returned from London were quite oddly specific while dealing with the possibility of incidents in taverns that catered to traveling nobility. Potential romantic incidents as well as those that would involve police involvement if a fast exit from the area was not imminent."

"I see," the old priest responded, his own lips twitching. "No doubt this was solely due to literary examples and hearsay rather than personal experience." he continued with great seriousness.

"No doubt." Ehren said, equally deadpan. She then paused before continuing in a slightly more serious tone. "I do know that Mutti was expelled from the wizarding academy of Beauxbatons in 1724. Although I do not know what prompted it, honestly. She just said that she is proud of me and has confidence that I shall do better than she did at school. She has her broken wand framed and mounted in a place of honor in the upstairs hallway near my room."

He nodded, thinking quietly for a moment. "So I take it Beauxbatons is the French school, yes?"

"Ja. It is." Ehren confirmed before explaining in a precise voice. "There are three major European ICW-recognized schools. Mutti and Grandpapa went to Beauxbatons in southern France. There is also Durmstrang somewhere in either northern Europe or the Carpathians that primarily takes in pupils from Germany, Scandinavia, Eastern Europe, and similar. Lastly, there is Hogwarts in Scotland, which is where I shall have an avatar attending with my true body starting in September." Her tone clearly invited that she would answer his questions.

One eyebrow quirked upwards. "Multiple avatars? Am I safe in assuming that this is due to your nature as being the spirit of a dagger?"

Ehren's cool smile widened microscopically, "Indeed it is. Spirits such as myself and my family must manifest in reasonable proximity to our true bodies. However, there are some workarounds that can be used. For instance, Claire has a locket containing some small pieces of her true body -- shavings and screws from her case and one of her original steel strings -- that were later regenerated by magic. She uses that to manifest outside Moulbaix without having to move her full piano body around. As for myself, Great-uncle Kansha is a set of Japanese cooking knives who regularly manifests several avatars when cooking in the kitchen. I am using what he and his sister Suisei have taught me of his ability plus a hilt pin of mine that I regenerated to manifest back in Moulbaix while I have this body manifested using my primary Ehrendolch body.…"

She broke off, frowned for a moment in clear thought, and then resumed, "I should be currently playing Schubert's Fantasie in F Minor as a piano duet with Claire 'now' in the music room, which is an adequate challenge to improve my ability to manifest, control, and sustain multiple avatars. I shall reintegrate the memories of this avatar with those memories when I contact myself again when we return to Moulbaix. Think of the me 'here' as one of two identical containers holding one spiritual liquid that is actually 'Ehren'. My memories and experiences with you today are additional fluids added to one of them. Then they will be poured back into their original containers after being fully mixed when I merge with myself again. This is also a test run for doing so at a greater distance while at Hogwarts starting this September; I shall be meeting myself via mailing a hilt pin back and forth then."
Spoiler: Ehren Prepares For Hogwarts

"Fascinating, ever since I first encountered the supernatural I have been astounded at the sheer variety of things that are possible." he chuckled slightly. "It is truly a great gift, cherish it, my child, just remember to give thanks to He who gave such blessings unto you." Preaching came naturally to the old priest, after all, and he never missed an opportunity to slip at least a little wisdom in.

Ehren lip-twitched and spoke in a serious voice. "I am indeed thankful." She paused, clearly weighing her next words. "I would not have gone to Hogwarts if I could not find a way to also keep Claire company. I have literally known her from the moment I manifested an avatar. She and I spent over four decades together in Mutti's study aware of each other even before she manifested in 1990. Even now, I find it somewhat psychologically difficult to be away from her for this errand, and I know that she feels the same about me even with my many many flaws and failures." Ehren actually gave a warm and shy smile for a brief moment. "She is truly an angel from Heaven that I do not deserve to have met."

Fr Jacques simply nodded. "None of us deserve the blessings in our life, but the Good Lord gives them to us regardless. Just remember, that for all the blessings she bestows upon you every day, you give her equal blessings by simply being you." he settled back into the car seat a little as they knifed through the light early morning traffic like a shark through a school of herring.

Ehren nodded sharply and spoke in a self-evident tone. "She does admit that I am her favorite audience to serenade, and she feels safe and protected around me."

"And I have seen how you make her smile, how you inspire her to exceed herself, and how she craves your attention and approval." the priest pointed out with a faint smile.

"She does?" Ehren asked curiously. She then frowned thoughtfully. "I confess that I don't see the evidence of that…."

"Does she not look to you to see your reaction to her playing? Does she not play your favorite songs in the hope that it makes you smile?" he asked gently.

"Of course she plays for her audience and watches them. She does like Wagner and the other great German composers as much as I do as well," Ehren said, visibly thinking through the statements. "I do enjoy duets with her, they are both quite enjoyable and also push my abilities so I am a better musician. Talent is nothing without hard work; Da kannst du Gift drauf nehmen!"
(You can take poison on it!)

"Sometimes it takes somebody looking in from the outside." he mused. "To see the forest, rather than the trees. When you and your mother and those lovely children are all in the room as her audience, does she not still play the great German composers and look to you for your reaction?"

"Ach so." Ehren said in that thoughtful tone, gears grinding away as she spoke more than half to herself. "She always knows exactly what to play when I am… troubled… too." Ehren's voice became a bare whisper. "I know that she shall never hurt me because of what I truly am."

"Now, if I am reading this infernal machine correctly…" he nodded to the center console GPS display. "We should be on time for the meeting with the Bishop. And I saw you entering the address for the supply store into the machine as well, yes?" He knew that there was a time and place for addressing the traumas of her life, and now was not the time -- nor the place.

"Natürlich!" Ehren responded automatically as her voice returned to normal. Her eyes flicked to the display and then she downshifted to nominally obey the posted speed limit. "Seventeen minutes is well within standards for our travel time. You should have adequate time for your business there before we must visit the supply store. A question, though. Is the chalice you are carrying not part of Grandpapa's Communion plate?"

"Actually no, it isn't." Fr Jacques replied. "When a priest is first ordained it is customary for either his family or the diocese in which he is ordained to provide a suitable chalice, which is consecrated by the Bishop in a suitable ceremony."

He sighed then. "Therefore, this chalice would have belonged to Fr Pierre before his untimely demise. Fr Paul tells me that there was a will filed in Ath designating that Fr Pierre wished his chalice to go to a Cistercian priest he was friends with in the event of his death, but said priest has also gone to report to the Faith Triumphant in his own turn."

Ehren nodded thoughtfully. "Ahh, I see. So this chalice belonged to the last priest before you, and since it has been so long," she visibly thought while passing a car then resumed, "it goes to the Church then, perhaps to a new priest needing one who otherwise would go without?"

Fr Jacques nodded "Indeed, as it is still fit for use, in excellent condition, it remains consecrated and thus would be a treasured piece for one of the poorer seminarians to receive as his chalice."

"Very good!" Ehren exclaimed. "I have access to an inheritance separate from what I shall get from Mutti's estate. Would it be proper for me to sponsor a scholarship or three for the poorer seminarians? If so, I can prepare the paperwork while you are in the meeting with the Bishop and pay out of my personal funds to start it."

The old priest smiled at that. "If you feel called to do so, then yes, it is most appropriate. Many excellent young seminarians rely on the charitable generosity of the faithful to complete their training."

"Sehr gut." Ehren said, and stopped at a light. She glanced over at Fr. Jacques. "Can you direct me to the correct place to get the process started then once we arrive?"

"Certainly, although I confess I am not sure who the director of vocations is in the diocese at the moment. The diocesan offices would know and, by sheer coincidence I'm sure." his eyes sparkled a bit. "They are located in the same complex as the cathedral we are going to."

Ehren smiled briefly, "Quite efficient. I shall do so and report back to provide you any assistance with matters once I complete arranging the scholarship paperwork for those in need. As a noblewoman, while I am granted much, I am called upon to do more with what I have been given." In that instant, she looked just like Colombe as she spoke from the heart.

"Excellent to hear, my child." he smiled. "Just to let you know, once we leave the cathedral I'll be the only one carrying the valise. It is traditional that only a priest handles the ampullae when they contain the sacred oils, after all. And when it comes to liturgy…" his voice became rather droll "I am quite traditional indeed."

"Sacred oils and liturgy, Father Jacques?" Ehren asked curiously as she accelerated after the light changed to green. "I confess that I know next to nothing about Catholicism. I have not taken the time to study it, although I do plan to do some research since it is of importance to you and Mutti."

He nodded, having expected the question after all since he had prompted it in the first place. Sneaky priest was sneaky. "There are three separate oils that we will be picking up, one for each of the ampullae. The oil of catechumens, the chrism oil, and the oil for the anointing of the sick. All three are blessed for their particular purposes on Holy Thursday by the various bishops and distributed to the churches within their dioceses."

"The oil of catechumens is used to anoint converts to the Faith, as well as for priests during our ordination. It symbolizes the ancient custom of anointing honored guests and dignitaries with oil as a sign of favor from on high." he continued the explanation as they were slowed briefly by a knot of heavy traffic.

"The chrism oil is widely used, not simply for baptisms but for the consecration of objects and places as well as for confirmation. It too is symbolic of the ancient customs of anointing with oil. Moreover, the oils used to make chrism have deep symbolism as well. Olive oil, after all, is rich, effusive, and long-lasting, thus appropriate symbolizing the effusive fruits of grace. Moreover it is mixed with balsam, which gives a sweet fragrance to the oil, symbolic of the sweetness of virtue." he smiled as he glanced over at his driver before continuing the explanation.

"Finally, the oil for the anointing of the sick is specifically and specially blessed to be efficacious in spiritual healing of those facing the trials of mortality. Health of the spirit is no less important than health of the body, after all, in those in extreme unction it is a means of soothing the soul." he concluded.

Ehren nodded along with an expression of concentration as she listened intently. "I see," she said as he finished, "that is of significant importance since myself and the rest of the household are spiritual entities in large part. Shipgirl repair fluid works on me as it does on shipgirls, in fact. That is actually how I regenerated my hilt pins. I do hope that it is not needed anytime in the future by our household, though." She then spoke in a rather dry tone, "I suspect that the oils of chrism and catechumens may be needed by a certain priest in the future if all goes well with his plans, ja?" For an instant, a small smug smile almost seemed to flicker around her lips.

The old priest chuckled slightly, "Did you know that there was a very slight, but measurable, improvement in repair times when I or one of my colleagues in the Chaplain Corp blessed the repair fluid than when we didn't, hrmm?" he asked with a smile. "And while I wish I could say that it was only when I or one of my fellow Catholic chaplains performed the blessing that it happened that was not the case. And perhaps, perhaps. I would be a poor shepherd to the people of this world if I did not anticipate opportunities to bring more souls to Our Lord and Savior, no?"

"A poor shepherd indeed." Ehren agreed in that dry tone. She then spoke in a very controlled tone as she pulled into the parking lot for the Cathedral of Saint Michael and Saint Gudula in downtown Brussels. "I confess that I have a need forged into me to believe in something far greater than I can ever be alone. But after seeing for myself where misguided belief and blind devotion can lead those foolish enough to believe in the wrong thing, I wish to weigh my decisions very carefully before giving my loyalties. Cathy told me that the same wings that can soar to Heaven can descend to the Pit after all, and I have seen that, to my great sorrow." Her voice was very flat with an undertone of heartbreak under the iron control.

"Only the brightest of God's angels could become Satan." the priest replied with a slight smile. "And Judas Iscariot was the most zealous of our Lord's Apostles before his fall." he looked over and smiled at the dagger spirit. "And that is very wise, my child, to listen, not just with your ears. To learn, not just with your mind. To watch, not just with your eyes. Only the soul matters, in the end."

Ehren nodded silently at his words as she turned off the car. "I should hope that I have gained a small amount of wisdom from my experiences." she finally said in a thoughtful tone, then nodded to him as her voice became dry once more. "I do suspect that the Bishop may be slightly irritated if you are late to your appointment though, and I know that Mutti shall be disappointed in me should I tempt you into unpunctuality. I shall, therefore, get the door for you." She gave a visible lip-twitch at that last.

He chuckled. "Then I would simply remind him of the multiple times he was late to meetings with myself when he was my student. There are advantages to old age, my child." his eyes twinkled with a hint of mischief.

Ehren barked a brief but heartfelt laugh as she hopped out of the car to get the door for him as she escorted him to his appointment. "So I see…"
 
Kago cosplays death
Shinr

In a nondescript alley during midnight, a man was muttering to himself close to the street.

"Fools, all of them." Said a remnant of Tokyo Diet who refused to see the writing on the wall as he took out a pendant "With this Time-Turner, I will make things right."

As so he turned a few times, and watched as the people on the street rapidly go in reverse as the time re-winded.

And then someone walked out from behind him, wreathed in material darker than the shadows, writhing on them as they proceeded towards the streets, uncaring of the ongoing time manipulation.

The man, already terrified at the impossible, has gone bone-white as for the moment the figure lazily turned their head to look behind them without breaking stride, their eye looking through him with sheer callous indifference, before exiting into the streets and around the corner, thankfully out of sight.

When Time finally finished rewinding, the man sat crumpled on the dirty alley, soiled in his own fear, his plans forgotten. Some time later the aurors will find him and take him into custody.

Before, Meanwhile or After depending on your PoV

"What am I looking at?" asked Norimune as she wathced Kagotsuruhe in her Super-Dementor get-up, thankfully just the looks, without the crushing terror aura.

"I really don't know." Chisuheri replied as she maintained the monk versions of Notice-Me-Not and Avoid-Me spells. "It started when Kotegiri sent a letter with a request to help in some matters..."

"You mean offloading some of her SUBMIT OR DIE work that she can't personally attend to?" The Unrepentant Blade mock-clarified.

"...And after some recon, Kago decided that this is a best way to do it." The Bloodlust Blade answered.

"By slowly walking backwards for, what, 10-20 hours?" Norimune asked with some incredulity.

"...Yes." Chisuheri stated with a hint of bafflement.

----

A/N: This little piece started with a desire to write something about Lord K's OG Muramasa Swords, who are sadly under-utilized lately. Initially, it was about the gang with Kotegiri's and/or her Boss' sanction going full Beat 'Em Up (inspired by recently released Streets of Rage 4, even planned to use some of the OST) on the local Yakuza with a chip on their shoulders against Tokyo Magical Diet who overstepped their bounds when said Diet fell, starting at the bottom of their skyscraper HQ and going up, culminating in a fight against the top enforcer, a thousand-year Pheasant Yaoguai with enough combat experience to give the Muramasa armory big trouble. Didn't work out.

Then all of the Time Turner usage made me think of a scenario when some Otherwordly Being who exists outside time popping out like above during a Time Rewind. But that is kinda too big of a plot-point for an omake.

So I kind of combined the two into what we have here.
 
[setgirl] Fortitude
KiMaSa

And this will almost catch up the setgirls snips...
Fortitude

Enterprise had never been to Kushiro before. Of course there were LOTS of places she had never been but there would be time for sightseeing later. Once the war was over. Today, she and Lieutenant Kirby were setting up part of 'Operation Fortitude'. They REALLY need a different codename for this, Enterprise thought. Though her part in it and the reason they were in Kushiro was the less blatantly titled 'Operation Stentor'.

Entering the Operations building, they were greeted by Destroyer Akebono, who addressed Kirby. "Admiral Tanaka is waiting to see you, as is the shitty battleship you asked for." She then looked at Enterprise. "And who are you?"

Enterprise smirked, puffing out her chest a little.

"I'm the United Starship Enterprise, registration number NCC-1701," She smirked. "Our mission is peaceful."

Akebono only shook her head. "Another nutcase! Just like the shitty battleship! You two will get along fine!"

"Really, Miss Akebono, I find your tone... Most illogical."

Akebono only scowled at that. Finally they reached the plotting room. Akebono groaned as she realized Settsu was dressed as Musashi... Pre-refit Musashi...

"Admiral Tanaka, Lieutenant Kirby. And the tall ditz says she's the starship Enterprise."

"She is," Kirby corrected. "She may be a setgirl but she and Miss Settsu may be a vital part of 'Operation Fortitude'."

"We need a better name than that," Tanaka noted.

"Once put into effect, they were thinking of calling it 'Operation Divergent'," Kirby replied. He gestured to the giant map of the Pacific. "Your clearance is considerably higher than mine, sir but it doesn't take much to see despite some successes and a few lucky breaks, this war is far from over. And despite what some of the more optimistic people might think, we can still lose this war. As you may know, Intelligence suspects that the Indian Ocean is going to go full Red on us again and we'll be getting major pressure on Australia and the Malay Barrier. When that comes, you better than I know that we'll need everything we have to meet it." He gestured to the map. "To help take pressure off that area, the Joint Planning Board wants to retake Bougainville and neutralize Solomons Princess."

Tanaka nodded. "The only problem is that according to what we know, Solomons Princess has allies in the region."

"Yes sir. So an attack against Solomons Princess has to be prepared to handle reinforcements from the neighboring Princesses."

"And we simply can't mass THAT much firepower for a single operation," Tanaka summed up.

"Yes, sir. So what we intend to do is create the illusion we're gunning for Carolines Princess. If we can convince them that the Carolines are our real target, they won't reinforce Solomons Princess in time and we can hit her with a smaller force."

"Stupid," Akebono commented. "If you don't have the forces to attack Solomons Princess, you don't have the forces to go after Carolines Princess and they'll know it."

"Which is why we're going to convince them we DO have that fleet," Enterprise replied. "We're going to convince them we're amassing a HUGE fleet whose SOLE purpose is to take out the Carolines." Enterprise changed her voice to that of a proper English Battleship. "To do thot, we will need individuals who can play many parts." She said, looking at Settsu. "Settsu says YOU are the battleship for the job. Is she right?"

"Settsu is most wise," 'Musashi' smirked. "I will give it my all!"
 
Bells of Ath 9
Yellowhammer

A.N. -- Well this has been a fun arc to write and I'm a bit sad to see it end (there's an Epilogue to go here, this concludes the main Bells of Ath so Fr. Jacques and his crazy 'parishioners' are about to pause). For a bit. As always, I'd like to thank Sunhawk for Fr Jacques and getting the Catholicism right. Thank you all for reading this one! - Yellowhammer/Sister Jeanne

Bells of Ath (IX)

Cathedral of Saint Michael and Saint Gudula, Brussels, Belgium

25 August 2014


No sooner had Ehren and Fr Jacques crossed the threshold into the narthex of the Cathedral than a whip-slender spare nearly bald priest who looked at least as old as Fr Jacques approached.
Spoiler: Two Old Warhorses From Seminary

"Ahh, Fr Kline!" Fr Jacques smiled broadly at his fellow priest. "They finally dragged you back from Paraguay?"

The elderly Jesuit embraced Fr Jacques warmly. "Indeed, although it appears I shall be returning." he grimaced slightly. "We can talk about that later. The Bishop asked me to meet you and inform you that your meeting will go on somewhat longer than planned." He glanced curiously at Ehren, frowned as if she reminded him of someone, then clearly put that aside.

"That is quite acceptable, Father Jacques." Ehren responded in her normal cool voice. "I shall head to the Diocesian administration building that you pointed out for me on the walk inside and begin setting up the scholarship for seminarians as we discussed on the drive over." She straightened up with a heel click and offered her hand to Fr Kline. "Ehren du Chasteler at your service."

The Jesuit took the hand with consummate Old World Grace and Manners, and bowed slightly to the young butterdagger. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Fr Emil Kline, Society of Jesus." he introduced himself with a trace of a smile. "While Fr Jacques terrorizes his old students en route to the Bishop, I would be glad to introduce you to the people you would need to speak with about such a sponsorship."

"My thanks sir." Ehren responded with an equally slight smile then nodded to the amused Fr. Jacques. "I shall let you commence with the terrorizing of lazy and slow barely adequate former students forthwith, Father!" With that she fell in alongside Father Kline.

Fr Jacques merely rolled his eyes and rested one hand on Ehren's shoulder in benediction. "I would caution against Jesuits bearing gifts, my child, but sadly Fr Kline has long been set in his ways. I strongly advise counting your fingers and toes before you let him out of your sight."

Fr Kline merely looked even more dignified than before. "I most assuredly have no idea what you are speaking of, Father. And lingering jealousy over my superior mastery of Latin is unbecoming."

"Jawohl, Priester! I shall be counting the fingers and toes before departure. Auf Wiedersehn!" Ehren responded with a twinkle in her steel blue eyes and an admirably serious face and voice as she left Father Jacques to his fate.

She turned to Father Kline as they walked outside. "As I told Father Jacques, I have a modest inheritance and wish to establish several scholarships for poor seminarians. There is apparently a growing need for priests if they are causing such elders as yourself to fill holes then?"

For a brief moment Fr Kline looked positively antediluvian. "Indeed." he said a bit heavily. "While I was in South America for Blood Week, the Church here in Europe took very heavy losses, so we are even more desperate for vocations than usual." he led her towards the administrative offices as he spoke. "Several seminaries were destroyed in the initial wave of attacks, and worse many priests here in Europe were on Spiritual Retreat at a major retreat center in the Baltic which…" he grimaced and shook his head. "The Enemy won a fleeting victory that day."

Ehren gently patted his shoulder and spoke softly but with steel in her voice. "I did not experience Blood Week directly, but Mutti was in Antwerp on business that day. She said that it was as bad as anything that she ever experienced. As for the Enemy scoring a fleeting victory, that is the way of warfare and strife. The first blow is not as important as who strikes the final blow, and I for one intend to ensure that our side shall be the ones who administer the coup de grâce. We all have our parts to play to make it come to pass."

The Jesuit nodded, smiling again slightly. "Indeed, and the Good Lord has certainly inspired many young people to step into the breach." He sighed. "Which is a balm to this old Jesuit's soul." he then visibly shifted gears. "So I understand from the Bishop that Fr Jacques has found yet another way around retirement?"

Ehren spoke dryly. "Indeed so. I am a member of the du Chastelers of Moulbaix and Mutti, the Marchioness of Moulbaix and Chasteler, decided that the family chapel in our ancestral castle was long overdue for reopening after she met Fr Jacques at Mass in Ath. The Bishop agreed and he is now ministering to us in the castle and the nearby village of Moulbaix." Ehren's lips twitched. "Mutti is old-fashioned and has rediscovered the faith of her childhood, it seems."

He nodded. "Animam meam convertit"(turned my soul) he said, glancing over to see if the girl accompanying him recognized the Latin. Once a Latin teacher, always a Latin teacher, and he'd taught Latin for well over 40 years.

Ehren was clearly baffled at the Latin behind that near-perfect cool poker face. "Ahh, I see." She clearly didn't see but was being polite. "So, If I may inquire, what is Paraguay like?"

He bestowed a look, the unamused look of a teacher seeing right through one's facade of understanding to the ignorance beneath. "Warm, the people are much in love with life and the Lord despite the poverty and corruption all around them. We do what we can, but it is always a struggle against those who profit off of the misery of their fellow man."

To her credit, Ehren handled his look better than some students twice her age. As he spoke of the people who oppressed their fellow man, her blue-gray eyes subtly hardened to steely chips of frozen ice in her controlled face, which reminded him even more of that lady named 'La Paloma' who had assisted the Society in Paraguay in 1992. They both shared that zealous burning fire to fight the Enemy wherever the Cross guided them.

"I see. I assume that there is a great need for our support to ministry programs there then?" Ehren's voice was cool and precise. Clearly she was working out how best to deploy her resources for maximum effect, Fr Kline decided.

"As always, the need exceeds the supply. The Society of St Vincent de Paul does excellent work amongst the lay organizations, for example." he shrugged slightly. "There are other groups who also work amongst the poor, ranging from the large multinational charities to a number of local organizations and individuals who do good work in His Holy Name."

Ehren nodded along. "If I may impose, once you arrive and see where the needs are greatest, if you write to me, I shall be delighted to send some of my inheritance to provide support. I would prefer for such matters to be handled with eyes on the ground rather than at a great distance." She gave a minor lip twitch as she elaborated. "Auftragstaktik."(Business tatics)

"In that case I would commend the Vincentians to you, for they always work through local parish councils rather than from the top down." the Jesuit commented mildly. "And they have a rather favorable… what is the term… teeth to tail ratio, I believe is the phrase?"

"Sehr gut." Ehren agreed. "That is always for the best, After all, to quote von Clausewitz, Männer sind immer mehr geneigt, um ihre Einschätzung der Stärke des Gegners aufschlagen zu hoch als zu niedrig, so ist die menschliche Natur.(Men are always more apt to pitch their assessment of an opponent's strength too high than too low, such is human nature) Therefore it is preferable to place resources where they achieve the most impact toward the goal."

They arrived then at the administrative offices, and Ehren spent a good half hour working with them to set up the scholarships in question, while the old Jesuit spent the time in a small chapel nearby.

Ehren was pleasantly surprised with the efficiency of the staff present and included an additional bequest to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and, after a moment of thought, a second one for the Society of Jesus' educational ministries in Paraguay. While it would be a modest financial strain for her, she felt that it was the right thing to do to help start making amends for her past failures. Service, after all, was a great virtue and she was held to a higher standard by virtue of her heritage; those were truths that both halves of her nature could agree upon.

She hummed a Wagnerian aria from the first act of Siegfried to herself as she neatly arranged her copies of the forms and receipts together in a file folder that she had pulled from her subtly space-expanded pocketbook. After all, good fortune happens when opportunity meets with preparation, she reminded herself with an inward smile that she let become visible on her face after a momentary reflection. With a small satisfied smug smile and nod, looking for all the world like the cat who had gotten into the cream, she then headed to the chapel to rejoin Fr. Kline for the planned tour of the cathedral itself.

Ehren's timing was exquisite, or somehow Fr Kline had known that she was coming, because the old Jesuit rose from his knees right as she reached the door, crossing himself as he did so. "I trust Mrs Peeters took good care of your requirements, Ms. du Chasteler?" he inquired as he turned and moved to join her once more.

"Ja. She did. The staff was quite professional and helpful." Ehren agreed and smiled. "Thank you for asking. Shall we proceed to the cathedral tour?"

Fr Kline gave his tight little smile. "Certainly, please follow me." he replied.

As they walked outside Ehren's head suddenly snapped up at a flicker of motion near the spire of one of the bell towers Her steel blue eyes zoomed in and focused on a bird preening itself on the north tower's gargoyles. "Father, there on the north tower one terrace below the summit! I believe it may be a Wanderfalke!(peregrine falcon) It is certainly a bird of prey roosting there." She pointed it out for him with excitement in her voice.

The old Jesuit squinted a bit, his eyesight was not quite what it once was, especially at a distance. "Ahhh, well spotted. This Cathedral is the happy home for a nesting pair of Peregrine Falcons, which have been resident for several years. If I am not mistaken, that is one of the youngsters from last year's hatching. If we are fortunate that fine fellow may well grace us with some acrobatics today."

As they watched the tiercel took flight, catching a thermal spiral and beginning to rise as fierce yellow eyes scanned the streets and parks below him for any pigeons foolish enough to share the air with one of nature's marvels. Ehren gave a shyly happy smile and filmed the falcon as it finally vanished. "No acrobatics it seems, Father, but I would not care to be the next pigeon who decides to fly over the roof of the cathedral. I believe that our friend there has decided that it is time to procure lunch on the wing."

Fr Kline simply chuckled slightly, nodding. "Indeed." he said, folding his hands behind his back as he resumed his course towards the Cathedral proper. "Have you ever toured a Gothic cathedral before?"

"Nein, I have not. The closest I have come is Castle Moulbaix, which was rebuilt to its final form in 1889, from the seventeenth century building." Ehren said pedantically. "The original castle was constructed in 1310, but of course one would not use Gothic architecture for a fortress."
Spoiler: Cathedral Of St. Michael And St. Gudula VR Tour

She stepped inside and gasped in awe. "It's so full of light and space!" Her eyes rose to the vaulted ceiling, apparently suspended from Heaven above her. "It's beautiful!"

He smiled faintly "Indeed, that is precisely what Gothic architecture is supposed to invoke in those experiencing it. The soaring vaults are meant to represent the soaring heights of heaven for the faithful and the sculpture and ornamentation are meant to show the glory of God in the Highest."

"I can see that," the awed dagger spirit whispered as her eyes took in the majesty of the cathedral, "it is quite impressive. The more so done over generations. Is that correct, Father Kline?"

"Indeed, 300 years or so for the main construction, with details and side chapels being added in for several centuries further." Fr Kline replied, nodding towards the visible side chapels.

"Three centuries? Very impressive." Ehren murmured as they continued the tour.
Spoiler: A Dispute Between Seminarians

She took a picture of a stained glass window with her phone then pointed at the visibly shaken priest who was walking to join them. "Oh no, Father Jacques looks terrible! Was ist los (What's going on), Father?"

Fr Jacques looked at Fr Kline with a lifted eyebrow. "You knew about this, didn't you." he said levelly. Not waiting for a response he took a deep breath and explained. "Evidently thanks to my towering seniority and the earnest recommendation of the pastors of the region surrounding Ath, His Eminence has decided to bestow…" the sarcasm was audible… "the title Vicar Forane upon me and has directed that I take up the deanery of the region."

Ehren blinked in confusion. "Is not dean an academic rank in a college?" She asked curiously. "I take it this is an unwelcome promotion?"

Fr Kline took the opportunity to murmur a farewell and strode away, looking as serene and unruffled as ever.

"Damn Jesuits." Fr Jacques muttered. "And yes, but the academic rank was inspired by the ecclesiastical office of dean. And I much prefer ministering to people over ministering to…" the loathing was obvious… "paperwork."

"Ach so." Ehren said, then gave a small smug smile. "Is it permitted for you to have a volunteer assistant to help with the paperwork then? I shall have an avatar in Moulbaix after I leave for Hogwarts and can easily schedule myself to help you manage the forms and reports." A beat. "Claire shall be providing the music for the office while I work though."

The old priest smiled faintly, settling the valise in his grip. "Perhaps, although such a lay assistant would need to spend time familiarizing herself with the relevant canon law sections and diocesan norms." he replied, a bit of the familiar sparkle and twinkle returning to his eyes.

Ehren raised an eyebrow. "I can assure you that the Audi is sufficient to hold the needed books, and I suspect if I ask, you can assist me in becoming familiar with the relevant canon law sections. Übung macht den Meister."(Practice makes perfect)

He then grinned as a thought suddenly hit him, looking almost like a schoolboy again for a moment. "Would you be so kind as to go and unlock the Audi, and I shall… procure… the required texts." then he muttered "Least he can do after saddling me with this."

"Jawohl! Let me know if you shall need assistance in carrying the law books." Ehren said as she snapped to attention.

He, in turn, simply squared his shoulders and turned to go back to the Bishop's office.

Several minutes later, he emerged from the Cathedral with a large bag over one shoulder and his valise in hand, walking surprisingly swiftly for an old man. A few moments later Fr Kline burst out of the Cathedral in hot pursuit only to be left frustrated as the Audi pulled up in front of Fr Jacques, the bags were loaded into the back with indecorous haste, and the old priest turning to bow slightly to the huffing and puffing red-faced Jesuit before entering the vehicle himself.

"Hit it."
Spoiler: A Butterdagger Getaway Driver

Ehren floored the gas to accelerate away from the Jesuit like a Teutonic rocket.

She then looked over at him coolly as they stopped at a light and raised an eyebrow in silent inquiry, glancing at the bag that he had departed the cathedral with that had not gone in with him. Her face throughout was admirably deadpan.

Before Fr Jacques could reply to the look his cell phone went off, and the old priest simply pulled it out and accepted the call. "Your Eminence, a pleasure hearing from you so soon." a pause. "I am simply following your last instructions to return to Moulbaix once the supplies for the chapel are procured… yes, yes… Fr Kline's canon law books?"

Ehren's lip twitched suspiciously as she accelerated through the intersection at the light change, upshifted, and floored the gas again. "Really? You don't say? Shocking, simply shocking. Have you asked Fr Kline if he loaned them out? Ahhh, do you remember nothing of my lectures back in seminary? What you do unto others shall be done unto you. I do remember your… Yes, Your Eminence, unfortunately I would be in violation of your instructions to obtain needed supplies and return to Moulbaix immediately if I were to do that. I do believe that our mutual Jesuitical friend has plenty of time to pick up a fresh copy if he needs them so badly. Of course, Your Eminence, I will speak with the Marchioness when I return. Good day!" he then, with a self-satisfied smirk that looked like it probably belonged to a subthief, hung up the phone.

Ehren raised an eyebrow and spoke in a cool and controlled voice. "The supply store forthwith and then we pick up something to eat enroute to Moulbaix?" She paused and her lip twitched. "I do think that it would be better for the peace and tranquility of the meal and the digestion if we could procure the food outside Brussels, though. Unless you have food preferences different from those of Father Kline, natürlich."

Fr Jacques nodded gravely. "Indeed, a wise plan my child, a very wise plan." even as he spoke his cell phone went off again with a different ring tone.

"Ahhh, Fr Kline! Always a pleasure to hear your voice!" he was smirking even more now. "Oh? I'll be sure to remember that. Tell me, Father, on that note, where does trying to ambush a fellow priest fall on that scale? Give my regards to His Eminence, Father!" he hung up again.

"I daresay that I have suitably repaid my Jesuit friend for his conduct in this affair. No doubt he shall try to get back at me at some point, a most un-Christian motivation I am sure." he grinned.


Ehren chuckled. "Some music for the drive back to Moulbaix, Father Jacques?" At his nod, she tapped a button on the center console and a jazz tune played. She then flicked open a set of sunglasses and put them on. She spoke dryly as they passed a police cruiser. "Do you by chance have a half pack of cigarettes while we are on our mission from God? I have a full tank of gasoline, after all and it is a hundred and six kilometers to Moulbaix…."
--------TO BE CONTINUED--------

A/N - Sunhawk2 here! Just the epilogue to go, and before anybody asks, yes Fr Jacques did get tacit permission from the Bishop for that little caper. After all, Fr Jacques and Fr Kline were roommates in seminary….
 
[setgirl] Reconnaissance Raid
KiMaSa

But let us not linger here! For now the Saga of Nagato chan returns!

Reconnaissance Raid


Yokosuka was possibly THE most secure base in Japan. It was also the logical place to hold the Allied Command's Prisoner of War Number One: Jingo, Also known as East Indian War Princess, currently awaiting trial by Military Tribunal. And THAT was perhaps the reason she was NOT being held at Yokosuka. Currently, she was being held in an abandoned mine, deep underground with a 10-Kiloton going away present under her cell in case she tried to escape. Not that anyone believed she would attempt to escape. She HAD surrendered of her own free will after an escape from her home base in which she used herself as a decoy to ensure the survival of both her fleet and the humans she had once aspired to rule. Her efforts in saving a passenger ferry had also not gone unnoticed but for now, she was still a prisoner of war and a potentially very dangerous one at that.

From Jingo's perspective, it was all necessary. Her trial would be the first for an Abyssal. Jingo believed in the rule of law and she would prove that she considered the rules applicable to her as much as anyone. Even knowing that it could possibly mean her death. She was aware that the Yamashita Rule was in place as well. Under the Yamashita ruling, she could be convicted of any crime committed by anyone nominally under her command even if she neither ordered it or was aware of it.

"So? If they give you a death sentence, how do suppose they'll do it?" Ruiner had asked Jingo during one of the long days of their escape from the Indian Ocean.
Is there actually a rope that can support the weight of an Abyssal? I know lethal injection and the gas chamber are out. Electric chair? Nah! It'll tingle your hair but nothing else I bet! Nah! Best to go with a firing squad! How many shots do you think it will take? Will they use AP or High Explosive rounds? Incendiaries maybe?"
It had not given Jingo comfort.

Strangely enough, neither had their separation. For Ruiner WAS interned at Yokosuka, her long-range transmitters disabled, her magazines unloaded and with shipgirl faeries overseeing all operations, ready to scuttle her at a moments notice if needed. Other than that, and with a tracking bracelet supplied by Hoppou, Ruiner was assigned quarters and allowed use of the base dining hall and recreational facilities. Not that she used them much. It just wasn't the same without the boss lady to egg and tease. It was quite lonely and she truly did fear for her princess and that she might 'Fair and Honorably' work her way to an execution.

Of course, Jingo's death would be quite satisfying for quite a large number of Abyssals. The only thing is that they would prefer to do it themselves rather than trust the humans to do the job. Sub-Continental Princess had promised great rewards to whoever brought Jingo's head to her and now the first eager volunteers were going to have a go at it. First, they had to find her, of course. The Battleship Demon and her heavy units would stage an attack to draw out some of Yokosuka's shipgirls while Destroyers and PT Imps snuck into the base to locate Jingo and escape. THEN the fun could begin.

As the first alerts sounded, Nagato-chan frowned. Classes were over for the day and she had been looking forward to helping her mother fix dinner. Her mother had firmly proclaimed that instant ramen did not in itself constitute a proper diet for her daughter. Unfortunately, the alert meant that her mom was being called to battle. Nagato chan did not allow herself to contemplate the possibility that her mother could be hurt or killed. Her mother was Nagato of the Big Seven and would ALWAYS come through! It was as certain as gravity for her.

It did mean that she would have to make other plans for dinner. Saratoga had said something about getting pizza. She wondered what that would be like. Of course, Miss Hosho was still on base but she already had five girls to feed... Four anyway, since Hornet was apparently in on this 'Pizza Night' Sara had said that with what looked like the final girls coming from the states arriving, it would be a nice welcome party! So, Nagato-chan and Yamato-chan met up with Sara chan.

Sara was showing around the five new arrivals. Much to her surprise, they HAD finally succeeded in getting Enterprise. Learning from the successful summoning of Valiant, the Americans had realized that 'DiveBomber' was too narrow a focus to provide presence beyond that of the original Grey Ghost herself. Still, THIS E was a much more wide-eyed version of the famous carrier. E-chan was a sweet girl. So was Lexington, Like the actual carriers, it was amazing how much 'Little Lexy' and Sara-chan looked alike. Then there were the Princeton girls. One patterned off CVL-23 and the other off CV-37. The smaller one always seemed to have soot or dirt on her clothes, no matter what. The last was Pensacola, a cat-eared girl who was a twin of Los Angeles.

Sara smiled as she greeted Nagato-chan and Yamato-chan. "Hornet and Yorktown are finishing with the food preparations. Hornet figured we'd order plenty of everything! Any leftovers we're sure somebody will take!"

"Thanks for inviting us Sara-chan! We don't know how long it will be until mama and Yamato-san get back. "

Sara blushed again. She knew how amusing everyone thought they were but it was okay. Nagato-chan was nice. "Of course!" She answered, ignoring the grins on the new girls. "What about your sister and Shiromizu?"

"Shiromizu said something about going to check on Harry and Hoppou was with Regalia. I think they were going to join us later."

"That sounds good!"

They walked only a little ways back to the carrier dorm when they heard the growling of vicious animals. They stopped, startled as a set of red eyes peered out of the bushes. Naturally, a normal shipgirl could have made quick work of such small fry. But, while stronger than humans, setgirls still were nowhere tough enough to fight PT imps and sure enough, the PTs, despite their initial hesitation, sensed the fear in the 'shipgirls' and knew, instinctually, that they had an edge. Soon, a pack of them had gathered.

Nagato-chan and Yamato-chan knew they were at a disadvantage but they also knew that battleships PROTECTED the carriers from anything that got close. That was their mission. "Sara chan, get behind us," Nagato said quietly, thinking how she could possibly fight a REAL warship, even one so small.

The first PT lunged at E with a snarl. Acting on instinct alone, Yamato chan grabbed for it and willed her full weight down on in. Even as a sets, both Yamato and Nagato were fairly massive and it showed as Yamato pinned the PT and pummeled it with her fists. As the second PT charged at Yamato, Nagato chan slammed into it with full force. Unfortunately, that wouldn't do anything to save them from the other PTs that now moved in for the kill...

Until a foot of Abyssal steel crashed down on the head of one of the PTs, shattering it like glass. "Alright you little chicken shits! I've been waiting for something that needed killin' and you ugly fucks will do just fine!" Ruiner said announcing herself and grabbed two more PTs, one in each hand and smashed them together. She grinned at Nagato-chan and the others. "Nice style kid! Oh! Geez! I think the crazy boss lady rubbed off on me! I'm turning into friggin Captain America!" She grinned at the last PT, which backed up nervously from the Ru-class.

Ruiner smiled and her foot lashed out, kicking the PT under the chin with nearly 100,000 shp, launching it into the air, the jaw shattered on impact, the body flying. "And look at the hangtime on that baby!"

Soon, Tenryu and Tatsuta arrived as the alarms sounded across the base. The destroyers and remaining imps did not last long after this. Finally, the 'all clear' sounded.

Ruiner smiled at Nagato-chan and the others. "So! What's cooking?"
 
[Summer Harvest Trip] Pool time, Bath Time, Bed time
Harry Leferts

Bare feet slapped against polished stone and the sound of chatting could be heard before it suddenly stopped. Having entered a room, everyone paused as they took it in. Looking around, Yae's eyes were wide, "Is this the pool, Gozaru...?"

Lightly chuckling, Harry rubbed the back of his neck some, "Um, actually? This is kind of the public bath for the mansion. Though... it could be used for an indoor pool when the weather outside is not suitable."

Glancing at him, Nobu gave a small snort, "I wouldn't have thought so."

Walking further in, the former warlord took in the sight of the room. In the center, was the currently empty pool/bath. Stairs were at either end of it along with stone benches along the side where one could sit. Not to mention a shallower area where an adult could lounge or younger children could sit without worry. At one end, there was a small trough that came from a small hole, obviously where the water would flow into the pool, though there were smaller faucets around it as well. From where she was, Nobu could see a thermostat for the water itself.

However, what truly caught her attention was the rest of the area.

The pool's floor had a mosiac on it almost like the bottom of the sea, and around it rose fluted columns to the ceiling. What really caugth Nobu's attention, however, were various statues that were around the pool. Some were of marble and others of bronze. Coming to one, which showed a woman lounging with her tunic exposing part of her chest, with a pot from which something poured at her side, Nobu gestured at it, "What is this called now?"

Coming up to it, Andraste smiled a little, "This was actually a gift to the British Potters from the French Branch of the family. It's a casting done of Antoine Coysevox's Nymph with Shell done in bronze and enchanted with anti-tarnish charms."

Eyebrows raising, Usagi pointed at another statue, "Now, that one I know, it's the Venus de Milo, right?" Her ears twitched a bit as she cocked her head to the side, "Though, uh... this one has one of her arms? And holding an apple?"

Jin was also examining the statue in question and scratching her head, "Huh... wierd." Turning, she jerked her thumb at it, "So what's the deal with this? Because it feels old and new."

Lips twitching, Carnwennan walked up with a slight grin, "Because it is, also it is partially the original."

At that, everyone including Harry paused while the Mizuchi looked at the dagger spirit, "Wat."

Unable to help himself, Carnwennan grinned a little, "Do you know the story behind the statue itself?" Getting head shakes, he chuckled, "The original statue was found by a farmer and his son in a cavity in the ground. The thing is, he also found fragments of the arm as well as the plinth that it stood upon. Said arm is the one here as is the plinth."

Jaw dropping, Shiromizu boggled, "W-what?! Did a Potter steal it!?"

That got her a snort from the Arthurian blade, "Not at all, rather they rescued it." At the confused looks, Carnwennan shook his head, "See, the French actually threw away the actual arm fragments because the statue looked better without it in their eyes. And the plinth, they tossed because the date on it showed that it was from after the Classical Period, and thus of less value. Johnathan Potter, whom I was in possession of and was using me to settle some... unfinished business regarding those whom had killed the French branch, had heard of the discovery." He then gestured at the statue, "He tracked down the plinth as well as the pieces of arm before spending money to get a lost wax casting using plaster. Bringing all three back, he then put them together here with the arm repaired and added to the plaster cast. Which... he then enchanted to be as resistant as the original marble."

For several seconds, really almost a minute, everyone outside the armoury stated at him before turning to look at the statue.

Eventually, Jin scratched her head with a small frown, "Huh... that's actually kind of neat. Well, in a magpie way."

More than a little amused, Carnwennan laughed some, "It is at that, Jin." Out of the corner of his eye, he noted Taiyang looking around with a thoughtful look, 'I wonder what she thinks of this...'

Within said Dao's mind, meanwhile, she was actually very impressed with the room in question, 'Oh yes, Master definitely made a very good choice with this husband. A very good one indeed~ This truly is a fine bath fit for her, Mikon!'

At the same time, Natsumi could hear Tamamo purring in the back of her mind which made her internally snort, 'I take it that you're impressed?'

Said being answered her back with a laugh, 'Of course I am, Natsumi. How could I not? Though... this truly is a bath that many an Emperor would be quite pleased by. Very pleased by... as am I.'

But, soon enough, they left the bath/indoor pool behind and made their way outside to the main pool. Eyes wide, Nobu walked up to the edge after dropping her towel onto a chair, "Wow... Haha!" Hands on her hips, she shook her head, "This place is as large as a community pool!" Turning, the former warlord had a grin on her face, "What do you think, Okita-Chan-"

Okita just smiled as she gave her friend a push, shoving the other girl into the water, "Hmm... I think that you talk too much, Nobu-Chan~"

Laughs escaped from the others as they watched Nobu flail in the water before she turned and gave her friend a glare, spitting up some water, "Just you wait, Okita-Chan... wait a moment."

Pausing, the former head of the Oda opened her mouth and sucked some water in before blinking. After a moment, she spat it out with an odd look on her face. Watching from the side of the pool, Uesugi gave her a look, "That's disgusting, Nobu-Chan, don't do it."

However, Nobu just raised her hand before turning to an amused Harry, "The water... it's not chlorinated."

When everyone turned to him, the wizard shrugged and nodded, "Magic." Lightly chuckling, he grinned a bit, "There's magic on the pool to keep the water clean without needing chlorine. Also wards around the area to keep wild animals and insects away from it as well just in case. So the water is always clean."

Reaching into the water, Jin pulled out a handful of water which swirled in her hand in an apple shape. She then took a "Bite" of it before nodding, "Damn, this is water from that well. And also damn good water as to be expected."

Just chuckling, Goldie placed a hand on her hip, "But of course! The Praetor's family chose this spot because the well contains a spring of mineral water! Truly Roman to use such, Umu."

Yae blinked at that and turned to look at Harry in amazement, "You have you own mineral spring? Just for yours and your family's use?!" At his amused nod, she shook her head, "Gozaru..."

Spotting Kenshō at the edge of the pool in her goldfish themed swimsuit and water wings, Harry hummed as he walked towards her, "Of course, we're here for more than to admire the water..." With a burst of speed, he picked up the squeeling Kenshō in his arms, "Like enjoy the water!"

Eyes wide, the Kogatana looked at him, "M-Master?"

Grin on his face, Harry had a gleam in his eye, "Ready, Kenshō?" At her shake of the head, he laughed, "Right! Well, let's go... One to for the money... two for the show..."

Now struggling, and squealing, Kenshō tried to get out of his arms, "Master, don't dunk me!"

However, he winked at her, "Can't do that~ Three to get ready... and four... to... go!"

And with the last word, he leapt into the water with a squeaking Kenshō, "MASTER, NO!"

Laughing as the sputtering blade popped out of the water, Harry swam away. Of course, he did note that, for some odd reason, Natsumi, Iku, Hachi, Taigei, and Ryuuhou all had blushes on their faces and sparkles in their eyes. Not to mention how some of the others were amused at both that and what he did. But he mentally shrugged that off as he went into a backstroke to get away from Kenshō who was splashing everything as she tried to swim after him, "You're going to have to do better than that, Kenshō!"

Pout on her face, the little blade spirit tried harder, "I'm going to get you, Master!"

Unfortunately, all she got was more laughter from Harry as he swam away, soon joined as the others all jumped in.

The Sun eventually set below the horizon and everyone left the now cooling pool water for the hot tub. A sigh escaping her lips, Yae laid back as she felt one of the jets of water cararess her with a heated stream of bubbles. opening her eyes, she hummed a bit as she looked around. At various points around the hot tub, there were groups of three stone dragons in a circle. In the middle, supported by their wings, were softly glowing crystal balls which illuminated the area, "Gozaru..."

Suddenly, Ooi spoke up from where she was sitting with one arm around Kitakami's shoulders, "Hey! About time you got back, Otouto!"

Everyone turned to where Harry was walking with two trays floating behind him, grin on his face, "Well, sorry for talking so long, Yuuko-Nee." It missed no one's attention that Ooi's face lit up with joy at that before he continued, "Anyways, figured that we could all use something a little nice out here."

Intrigued, Nobu raised an eyebrow as she caught sight of the pitcher and cups on one of the plates, "Is that the mint tea that you were talking about?"

Lips curled into a smug smile, the wizard nodded, "Hai, it is and freshly made as well. Also..." He gestured to the other plate which had a bowl filled with what looked like chocolate, "I thought that we could also all enjoy some After Eight chocolates."

Curious, Yae furrowed her eyebrows, "After Eight?"

With a hum as he reached the pool, Harry slipped into the waters with a sigh before answering, "Hai, they're a type of dark chocolate covered mint made here in Britain. They're really good."

Intrigued, Okita looked over at him from where she was beside Nobu, "Huh, well... I wouldn't mind trying some."

From beside her, Uesugi had a teasing smile on her face as she snorted, "He likely had you at Chocolate." Moving away from the small splash from her friend, she turned towards Harry, "But I would not mind trying some either."

The other teens from Japan nodded and gave their own agreements.

Slowly, the plates were floated along and Nobu took one of the cups of tea from it as well as one of the wafer shaped chocolates. Humming, she closed her eyes and took a sip of the tea, allowing for the taste to wash over her tongue as she considered it. After a few moments, the former warlord opened her eyes and swallowed some, "Hmm... this is quite good tea."

Beside her, Okita nodded before taking a bite of her chocolate, happy look on her face, "And so are these chocolates!'

While bemused, Yae looked at her own tea and chocolate before biting into the confection. She could taste the somewhat bitter chocolate followed by the sweeter, minty filling. Humming, the Kendoka looked at the chocolate in thought as she chewed, 'I wonder if Sensei would like chocolates like this?'

Nearby, Taiyang took a sip of the tea and nodded to herself as she could tell that besides the slight hint of honey to sweeten, there were different types of mint leaves used. Which all helped to create a very good, to her, herbal tea. The chocolate was also good, which she was enjoying alongside the hot tub itself. Feeling the hot, mineral rich waters swirling around her made the Dao sigh a little as she closed her eyes and sank down happily until the waters reached her neck, 'Ah, yes... so good~ Mmm... this time is much better than before I was sealed.' A slight smirk came over her face as she imagined various nobles and Emperors with their reactions to the chocolates and the hot tub, which made her giggle a little, "Oh yes, this is wonderful for this foxy blade~"

Meanwhile, Harry was sitting back with Natsumi and Iku leaning into his side with happy smiles as they enjoyed the evening air. Suddenly, he hummed as Taiyang spoke up, "Hmm? Sorry about that, Taiyang, I wasn't paying attention."

Just wagging a finger at him in amusement, the Dao smiled, "You really should pay more attention when someone asks something, Harry-San! But as to what I was asking..." She glanced around and tilted her head, "I was wondering where we were in Britain."

That made Harry blink for a moment before realizing what she meant and smiled, "Actually, Godric's Hollow, where we are, is in the Cotswolds in South Gloucestershire." Raising a hand, he pointed in one direction and then in another, "In that direction is the County of Bristol, and in that direction you reach Somerset as well as Bath, England where the Romans built baths using the hot springs there." The teenage wizard then pointed towards the North, "To the north, across the Bristol Channel, you have the Forest of Dean and beyond that, Wales, where King Arthur once ruled."

While part of Natsumi was suspicious as to why her sword wished to know where they were, she kept quiet about it. Ear flicking, Ayaka blinked and looked towards Harry as she bit down on another chocolate, "Natsumi-Chan mentioned about going to Bath and bathing in the hot springs there."

Humming, the fourteen year old wizard nodded a little, "If you want, since tomorrow is a break day, we could go and visit. Look at the old Roman ruins there and stuff... but most of the hot springs are not safe for bathing outside of magical places and those could be problematic to go to."

Intrigued, Usagi raised an eyebrow as she looked at him for a few moments before nodding, "The Quidditch World Cup?" At his nod, she sighed a little and leaned back, "Because of course that would be a cause of it..."

Arms propped up on the sides, Goldie gave her a smile, "But you can still look at the ruins, Umu." She waved around one hand with a chuckle, "As with all things Roman, they have lasted."

Head tilted to the side, Kaku hummed a little, "Are there any nearby?" Seeing the curious look given to him, he shrugged, "I mean, your family has lived here for a long time, right? Godric's Hollow is supposed to be pretty old."

For a few moments, Harry had a thoughtful expression on his face before nodding, "There's an old Roman road nearby. In fact, part of it leads from here to the village and has been used even over fifteen hundred years since it was built. As for my family..." He frowned thoughtfully, "It is kind of true that they have been here a long time. The first Potter was Hardwin and he lived here in the 1100s after leaving his father's, Linfred of Stinchcombe, residence which was on the other side of the Forest of Dean. He married Iolanthe Peverell, who was the last of the Peverells and they trace back at least to the 700s." Utter silence met him at that and he blinked as he noticed that not just the Yokai, but also the Reincarnates as well as Yae were staring at him, "Um... what?"

Pinching her nose, Uesugi took a deep breath before letting it out, "Do you mean to tell me, Harry-Kun... that you can directly trace your family back to the 700s? That your family is that old!?"

Slowly, the wizard nodded with a confused expression on his face, "Um... hai? I mean, the Potters themselves go back to the 1100s, like I said. But yeah, my ancestry can be traced back to the 700s." He gestured to the distant village, "Heck, you can find that information in the old church books and there's a few wizarding documents that go that far back as well."

Just rubbing her face, Ayaka gave a glare at a preening, smug Natsumi who got up and plopped herself in Harry's lap, "You lucky bitch."

Raising her finger, the Kitsune's smirk only grew more smug, "Vixen, actually~"

While confused, Harry just shrugged it off though he was somewhat confused with how everyone outside the, apparently mostly amused, armoury was staring at him though he did become a little concerned a moment later, 'Yuuko-Nee looks kind of faint... is the heat getting to her?'

Moments later, however, his attention was grabbed as Kenshō spoke up, "Um, Master?" When he looked at her, the Kogatana had a confused look on her face that many of those there found adorable, "You said that your ancestor was named Linfred of Stinkcombe?"

Lightly chuckling, Harry shook his head and motioned with a finger, "Linfred of Stinchcombe, but yeah, he is my earliest ancestor on the Potter side." Rubbing his chin, he hummed a little, "He's where we got the name 'Potter' actually."

Now interested, Yae looked over at him, "He is where you get your family name, Harry-San?"

With a slow nod, the teenage wizard nodded, "Hai, you see he was a potioneer and often made cures and such for his neighbours, most of whom did not know he was a wizard. They did know that if they got sick, to come to him and he would give them a tonic or what have you that would help. He actually got quite rich, though he never flaunted it. But... he was usually seen in his garden, tending the plants. Or, as they called it, 'Pottering along the garden', which got him the name 'Linfred the Potterer' among the locals."

Eyebrows raising, Nobu hummed in thought, "I see, I see... and then it was shortened to just plain 'Potter' then?" At Harry's nod, she chuckled, "Can't be helped, though it seems that your family has done good work since with his example."

Blinking, Yae frowned in thought, "Huh, that makes sense... and is very neat, Gozaru."

Just stretching, Harry sighed a little, "It is." Then he looked around before nodding, "Anyways, tomorrow we'll be going sight seeing and getting away from the fruit picking for a while."

It went without saying that got him happy sighs from the other teens, which made him laugh.

__________________________________________________________________

Taking off his shirt, Harry hummed a bit as he was looking forward to a nice, hot bath. Yes, he had gotten clean in the shower, but that was something quick in order to be able to cook dinner. Not to mention the pool and such as well. Hence, the teenage boy could not wait.

Which was why when he heard the door open, he paused for a few moments before pulling off his shirt entirely and turning with a wide eyed look.

Mainly because right there was Iku and Hachi as well as Natsumi walking in. The Kitsune had a slight smile on her face as she made her way towards him before kissing his cheek and beginning to take off her clothes as well. Pausing for a moment, she raised an eyebrow and looked at him, "Something wrong, Harry-Chan?"

Shaking off his surprise, Harry gave her a slight, though unsure, smile, "No, nothing is wrong, Natsumi-Chan." Glancing at Iku and Hachi who set their wooden tubs filled with toiletries to the side though they had blushes on their face, he smiled a little bit more as he came to a realization, "I take it that we're all taking a bath?"

A light smirk on her face, the Kitsune nodded, "Hai, best not to waste any water, right?"

Lightly chuckling, Harry gave her a nod, "That is true enough." Every so often, he glanced over as the two Subgirls took off their swimsuits from the pool. Though the fourteen year old split his attention between Iku and Hachi along with Natsumi who was beside him, "So, um..."

Just looking over her shoulder, Natsumi smiled a little, "Well, I think that while you are doing my back and tails, Harry-Chan, they can do your back and hair? And maybe return the favor when they're done?"

Considering that, he looked over at the two shipgirls who nodded before he smiled, "That does sound pretty good, Natsumi-Chan, and I don't mind it."

At that, Iku and Hachi relaxed a little, with the blue haired Subgirl smiling brightly, "We're fine with that, Harry-Chan, Natsumi-Chan. Right Hachi-Chan?"

The blonde Submarine nodded at that, "Hai, Hacchan doesn't mind either." Just a few moments later found her watching as Harry dumped warm water over himself while Natsumi did the same in front of him. Soaped up cloth in her hands, she glanced at Iku who had shampoo in her hands. Gently, she reached out with the cloth and began to soap up Harry's back, blush deepening a touch, 'We're doing it... we're actually doing this!'

Beside her, Iku also had a blush as she began to work the shampoo into Harry's hair, 'This... this is so nice...'

For some reason, however, doing so had her actually relax as she did it, eventually humming as she worked up the suds with her singing snitches of songs. What made it even better was the obvious enjoyment that Harry was taking from it if his soft sighs were anything to go by. Every so often, she caught sight of him looking at her over his shoulder with a happy smile on his face. It made her engines thrum each time all the harder.

With Natsumi, the Kitsune had her eyes closed in pure enjoyment as she felt Harry working in shampoo into first her hair and along her ears, and then via into her tails, which thumped a little. From deep in her mind, came a soft, happy sigh, 'I... have so missed this.'

Humming thoughtfully, the younger of the two raised a mental eyebrow before she came to a realization, 'Your husband.'

She could almost feel Tamamo nod back, 'Indeed, Natsumi. My husband... we bathed with each other, and often. I remember him gently cleaning me as I did in return. They were... happy times, untainted even now. Such memories are bittersweet, I believe that you could call them. And I miss such even now, miss him. But... right now, I am... content.'

Very slowly, Natsumi gave a slight nod, 'As am I.'

Both Kitsune had soft, happy smiles on their faces, mental or otherwise, as Harry continued his work in cleaning their tails and then back.

Eventually, however, both parties were done with their duties and the teenage boy handed Natsumi the cloth so that she could continue on her own, taking the one that Hachi had been using. Once he was done, and rinsed himself off, Harry turned and regarded the two Subgirls, "So, um..."

Gently, Iku pushed Hachi forward, "I think that Hachi-Chan should go first, Harry-Chan. Then I'll go and have my turn."

Her eyes lighting up, Hachi mouthed a 'Thank you' to Iku before sitting on the stool and waiting. Almost as soon as Harry began to work the shampoo in, her eyes drifted closed in enjoyment as she sighed. On her lips, a soft smile appeared as she felt his fingers at in her hair, gently making sure that none of it was missed. And when he removed his hands and rinsed her hair, she happily hummed, which grew into a purr as she felt him began to wash her back.

Despite what their reputation had been, the blonde haired Submarine didn't find anything lewd about what they were doing. Oh, that was not to say that she knew it would lead to very pleasant dreams, because she did. But, to her, there was nothing perverted about what was happening. It was intimate, very much so. After all, she was opening herself to Harry in a way. Right now, with how gentle he was being, it was only because her face was already wet that no one noticed the slight tears coming from her closed eyes.

While she had never told him, at least directly, Hachi had felt... dirty, due to her past. To Harry's credit, despite knowing what had happened when she was a steel hull upon her, he had never held it against her. But that feeling was still there, under her skin. Yet, at this moment, as he gently cleaned her back, the rough palms of his hands touching her soft skin as he spread the foamed suds around...

Hachi felt as if some of the stains from her past seem to be lifted from her, to be washed away with the next rinse.

Remembering what he had told her about his... relevation, she suddenly felt as if she understood exactly what it meant. Mainly because she was having her own right at this moment. Something that made the tears flow a bit more, even as her engines warmed in her chest. And when he was finally done and had washed away the suds, Hachi felt as if some of the dirt from her past had also been clean, leaving her fresh.

Softly sighing, Hachi turned and opened her eyes as she saw his meet her own blue eyes with his emerald green. He didn't care, and she could truly see that, and the warmth and love in his eyes that she could see in that moment was for her. Reaching up, the Subgirl gently cupped his cheek with her hand before leaning forward for a kiss which the two deepened slightly. As she pulled back after a minute, lips parted slightly, there was a shininess to her eyes, "Thank you, Harry-Chan..."

Gently taking her hand in his, he nodded with a smile, "You're welcome, Hachi-Chan." Leaning forward, he kissed her again and pulled back, "But I should say thank you."

Lips curling, the blonde shipgirl shook her head some and moved back before taking the soaped up cloth in order to finish the rest of her. In her mind, she chuckled, 'I wonder about that, Harry-Chan... I wonder...'

With a deep breath, and a smile towards Hachi, Iku sat on the stool and looked over at Harry. Feeling suddenly shy, she blushed a little with her voice soft, "Um, it's my turn now, Harry-Chan..."

Only nodding as he brought her toiletries forward and picked up the bucket filled with warm water, Harry smiled, "Hai, I'll be gentle."

That only got him a smile from Iku, "I know that you will be, because it is you."

Due to turning, she missed his expression soften and his eyes become slightly damp. As the warm water doused her, the blue haired girl closed her eyes and purred as she felt his hands begin to work the shampoo into her hair. Already, she felt herself relax at his touch, his nails lightly scraping at her scalp as he worked. Unlike with Hachi, Iku didn't really feel dirty, but she still felt exposed in a way to him that she had never been before.

And she liked both that, and how he was handling her.

Happy hums came from her as she leaned back a bit, to help him more easily clean her hair. Like with Hachi, it felt intimate to her, and deeply so, but at the same time there was nothing sexual about it. Rather... it felt emotionally so. As if she could feel his love and care for her. Even the way he ran his fingers through the strands of her hair as he rinsed them felt oh so wonderful and close.

Needless to say, as she felt him get to work at washing her back, she only relaxed happily even more. Part of Iku realized that at the same time he was soaping her up, his fingers were gently working at any tense spots that they found in her muscles, almost unnoticable. Tense spots that relaxed soon under his touch. As he finished with her back, and deciding to be a little greedy, she lifted up one arm which she heard him chuckle at before he went to work on that and on her armpit followed by the other.

Finally, however, he was done and rinsed her back, arms, and shoulders clean of suds, leaving her feeling refreshed.

As with Hachi, when Iku opened her eyes the sakura petal shaped pupils were practically glowing. And like with her friend, the blue haired Subgirl turned to face Harry, happy smile on her face before leaning in for a kiss which he returned gladly. No words were shared, as none were needed as the two pulled apart with smiles on their faces, only happy glows in their eyes and slight blushes on their cheeks even as Harry handed her the cloth to finish.

Moments later, with all four clean, they entered the bathtub which Harry had filled with water and repair fluid. Part of Harry was surprised when Natsumi moved aside in order to allow for Hachi and Iku to cuddle up to his side, their heads on his shoulders as their arms went around his waist. The fourteen year old gave the Kitsune a questioning look, but she simply shook her head.

Granted, she noticed the grateful looks that Iku and Hachi gave her, which she nodded slightly at, which caused their smiles to grow in return.

It was a half hour later that found them leaving the now cooler water of the bath behind, both Subgirls telling them to go on, and that they would be there in a moment. Once Harry was out the door, Hachi gave a soft, happy sigh, "That was..."

Beside her, Iku nodded with her joyful look, "Wonderful, Hachi-Chan." Turning to her friend, she smiled, "That was even better than what I ever expected."

Only nodding, Hachi wiped at her eyes a little, "Ja, it was..." Turning to Iku, she took a step forward and pulled her fellow Submarine into a hug, the other shipgirl returning it, "It really was far better than expected. I feel... cleaner."

Understanding appeared in the blue haired Subgirl's eyes, but she only nodded, "Hai." She brought up one hand and brushed some damp hair from Hachi's brow before kissing her softly, "Thank you again, Hachi-Chan, for letting me share this with you."

Just giving Iku's lips a peck, Hachi hummed, "No, thank you, Iku-Chan... for being here."

The two shared another happy, soft smile, before pulling apart and getting changed. Walking into the bedroom, they paused a little, however. Beside the main bed, there was a much smaller, child's bed. Like the larger, it too was made of wood with the end of the bed rising up and curving some. The sides were also raised some, to prevent the child from rolling out by mistake.

However, what caught their attention was Harry sitting beside Kenshō, a book open in his lap as the Kogatana looked up at him with wide eyes as he spoke, "The Mole had been working very hard all the morning, spring-cleaning his little home. First with brooms, then with dusters; then on ladders and steps and chairs, with a brush and a pail of whitewash; till he had dust in his throat and eyes, and splashes of whitewash all over his black fur, and an aching back and weary arms. Spring was moving in the air above and in the earth below and around him, penetrating even his dark and lowly little house with its spirit of divine discontent and longing..."

With a glance towards Natsumi as well as Taigei and Ryuuhou, the two knew that the others were imagining the same thing that they were... mainly their children also being read a bedtime story.

Both girls made their way quietly to the bed and sat down next to the others, Hachi lowering her voice to a whisper, "Is Harry-Chan reading the Wind in the Willows to Kenshō-Chan?"

Glancing at her, Taigei noted with some happiness that the Submarine seemed relaxed and very happy, as if a weight had been lifted somewhat from her. Simply nodding, the Submarine Tender sighed, "Hai, he is." A slight blush appeared on her face as she had the image of an older Harry reading to two girls who could well be twins, pajamas with cartoon whales being worn by the children. Then, she shook it off with a smile, "I think that Kenshō-Chan is enjoying it."

From where he was, Harry glanced at them, though he was kind of puzzled at how Hachi was recording him on the phone. Not to mention the expressions that the various girls had on their face. They seemed... almost hungry, somehow. However, he simply dismissed them and instead continued to read, changing the tone of his voice for the various characters. Until, finally, Kenshō's eyes had nearly closed as she clutched her stuffed goldfish close.

Smile on his face, he closed the book after marking the place and then kissing her on the forehead, "Pleasant dreams, Kenshō. We'll see you in the morning."

Yawning, Kenshō mumbled a little, "Mou... want to... hear more... about Mister Mole... and the others..."

Only shaking his head, Harry gently stroked her hair, "And you will, tomorrow. Now, dream of going to Toad Hall and meeting them for now."

Another mumble came from the Kogatana at that, which Harry swore sounded like "Ribbit Ribbit", but he shook it off. Placing the book aside, he turned and paused at the sight of all the girls looking at him with blushes on their faces, and happy expressions. Considering that for a moment, Harry shook it off and got into bed where he got some kisses from each one of the girls. Then, with Natsumi laying on top of him, Iku and Hachi cuddling against his sides, and Taigei and Ryuuhou spooning the Submarines, Harry pulled the covers over them and turned out the light as he laid back.

Before long, they joined Kenshō in dreamland with smiles of their own.
 
A Tear in Time
Shinr

The bit with Natusmi having a past viewing spell via things with huge emotional connection inspired me to revisit an earlier abandoned idea, set immediately after my previous Rome snippet. Tamamo's western travels

-

Natsumi was about to retort to Taiyang about real, actual differences between business busting and civilization ruining when she felt it.

It was on the edge of her senses, and she would've missed if it wasn't so particularly familiar.

The feeling when the Time Turner does its magic.

"What is wrong, Master?" Taiyang asked after she noticed Natsumi going still.

"I felt something." Natsumi answered and then spent some time placing it, before pointing at the top of Curia Julia "Over there."

Without a word, the Dao quickly moved, looked around and then jumped to the top of the old Roman Senate. A Minute or two later, the foxy blade returned a lot more at ease.

"It is nothing serious, Master." She reported, but for some reason Natsumi heard an unheard 'much. "But you might want to see it."

"Can't you just tell me now?" Natsumi asked.

"But what is life without surprises? ~Mikon." Her servant coyly counter-asked.

Sighting, the young Kitsune followed Taiyang back to the roof. Once there, she was confused at there being nothing out of normal, before the Dao pointed at a specific spot.

Once she concentrated on that location, she discovered that was some kind of haze over it, like a mirage.

"Oooohhhhhh, haven't seen one these for uncountable years." Tamamo-no-Mae stated with an impressed voice "One has better chances of becoming an Emperor of Under Heaven than to find another one of these for the rest of their lifetime, at least for mortal ones."

"What is it?" Natsumi asked as she examined the haze.

"That, my dear, is an echo of a moment so overwhelming that it imprinted itself onto reality." The Elder Kitsune explained. "A small tear in time, one might say."

"A Tear in Time?" Natsumi asked as she looked at the Haze in a new light "This might be just my pop-culture bias speaking, but that sounds like you could jump into it and end up in the past."

"Yes, which is why these were zealously guarded." The Elder Great Youkai answered "People very quickly found out that one is infinitely more likely to butterfly away their own family and clan than those of their enemy, or worse."

"Heh, that reminded me of that one time when we tricked one ducal far-down-line spare to go back in time and erase the heir." Taiyang remembered "Somehow managed to erase the whole realm."

Natsumi scampered away.

"Don't worry, my dear, for it is dormant." Tamamo comforted "Just jumping in only worked during the Age of Gods, when the ambient magic was enough to make it be constantly open."

"Knowing that, I'm kind of surprised that we are not getting arrested right now." Natsumi said. "This thing is dangerous and is probably under heavy watch."

"Probably because nobody here even knows about it." The Dao said. "And if someone does, probably some extremely old geezer that lived since the Age of Heroes, they most likely believe it to be harmless, ~mikon."

"To expand on that a bit further, not also the state of these Time Tears lessened with the weakening of magic, but their very presence diminished as well, becoming all but invisible to all but most gifted and knowledgeable sages who knew where to look." Tamamo elaborated "While your familiarity with Temporal Magic via the Time Turner helped, it is most likely my own knowledge of these embedded deep within you that allowed you to notice it."

"So with time they became very hard to find and nearly impossible to use." Natsumi concluded

"Even if time-travel was impossible, they still had some use." The old fox explained "Sages and Scholars would study them and try to understand the nature of time and reality, Oracles and Diviners would use it as a catalyst in their attempts to examine the past and to foresee the future, and the priests and shamans used them as a connection to the deities of temporality."

"Would not be surprised if these Time-Turny gizmos were a result of such ~mikon." The Dao stated.

"Indeed." Tamamo replied "Say, Natsumi, that spell that grants you visions of past events via items with strong connection to said events."

"You're not suggesting what I think you're suggesting?" Natsumi asked.

"Come on, Master~" The Dao pouted "Just a peek, it is not like we can actually change history anyway, ~mikon."

"Taiyang is right." Tamamo supported "And I admit, ever since that Roman Sword told tales of her Caesar I've been curious on what I missed."

'Sigh' Fine, but I don't think I can actually manage it with my current skills." Natsumi conceded.

"Don't worry, me and Taiyang will help you with that." The Elder Kitsune replied "First, you-"

As so they prepared and then casted a spell to let them see into the past.

-

The first thing that Natsumi felt was the smell.

The smell of ash, of burning wood, of burning stone, of burning metal, of burning flesh.

The oh so familiar smell she was overwhelmed with nearly a decade/millennia ago.

And then she opened her eyes, and her world was nothing but bright fire.

Once her eyes adjusted to the light she found herself on the same roof of the same senate building, and then she looked around, and everywhere she looked, Rome was on fire.

Grand buildings of the Quorum were collapsing as their supports were burned or melted away, damaged aqueducts spilled water tainted with blood, the nearby rivers were covered in a burning substance, and the streets themselves were littered with bodies, human and not.

And then there were those still alive and fighting.

Plebeian Militias, roused and angry, were swarming the small but tough bodyguard armies of the patricians.

Gladiators and Mercenaries fought for a chance of freedom or riches for whoever promised it them.

Freed animals rampaging across the city, terrified by the ongoing chaos.

Individuals who took advantage of the chaos or were just trying to survive.

And then there were the opposing Legions and their supernatural auxiliaries:

Harpies who provided air support to their allies, and hunted down targets of opportunity.

Satyrs who skirmished and ambushed their victims, before fading back to the backalleys and ruins.

Centaurs, who charged and trampled their enemies under the weight of both their armor and horse bodies.

Tamed Hellhounds, smaller imitations of the infamous Cerberus, burned down everything their handlers wanted dead.

Unleashed Chimeras who bit, gored and poisoned with their three heads.

Pegasus Riders who pierced their grounded enemies or jousted up in the blackened skies.

Giant Wolves, descendants of the She-Wolf who fought against whom they thought to be an enemy of the city, ripped their prey to shreds with their mighty jaws.

The Cyclopes who wrestled their similarly sized peers for dominance or threw giant rocks at whoever drew their ire.

Giant bipedal Mastodons, heavy armored and wielding giant shields and halberds, who formed giant tortoise shield formations, repelling all who dared to challenge them.

Humans with obvious divine heritage were duking it out, the demi-gods achieving feats of superhuman ability with envious ease.

The Gods themselves have apparently picked sides as once in the while a lightning bolt, a great gust of wind, a meteor, a flood or any other act of gods aided or hindered one side or another.

Everywhere she looked there was fighting, human and beast furiously waging war on the stained streets of Rome.

And all of that paled compared to what happened below her.

At the courtyard of the Curia, there were two Men, old in age but with vitality that would shame young ones in their prime, who stood facing each other and who with their sheer presence overshadowed their respective warriors behind them.

"Sulla, my old friend." One of them started "I would like to say that I'm happy to meet you in person after so long, after months of written back and forth, but we both know that we are past that."

"Spare me the pleasantries, Marius." The one called Sulla retorted "I'm here to end this all."

"End what, Sulla?" Marius asked "To end the newly acquired rights of the plebeians, to take away their means to control their fates that was previously the domain of the stagnant and corrupt Patricians?"

Some Demi-God on Sulla's side took offense and lobbed a lightning bolt at Marius, only for a Magic User on Marius's side to deflect it back, the bolt passing Sulla by inches and striking a Mastodon's great shield.

Marius and Sulla, both of whom did not even flinch at the exchange, raised their hands to preemptively make their forces stand down and prevent from escalating, for now, without breaking eye contact.

"I see your point." Sulla admitted "For the bad apples had certainly spoiled most of the good senatorial bunch."

"If you know that, then why resist me?" Marius asked "Why fight on the side of the gluttons who would rather flatten Rome under their fat?"

"Because everything I see right now, this chaos." Sulla gestured around him "Proves that we need to prune the Patrician tree, not uproot it and replace it with a Plebeian bush, a mob unready for the heavy responsibilities of ruling."

"But how could they be even be deemed ready, if the Patricians don't even give them a chance to learn and train in the first place?" Marius countered "Believe me, if a more peaceful path was possible I would've taken it, but you know full well that this social chariot race was rigged from the start."

"I know." Sulla acknowledged with resignation "And for what it is worth, I believe that it is possible for the plebeians and patricians to be equal in matters of government and make it work, but it is not something we will see in ours', or even our grandchildren's' lifetimes."

Silence reigned in the courtyard, and it seemed like the ongoing chaos quitted down in anticipation.

"Then we have nothing more to discuss." Marius stated. "Prepare yourself, my once most capable Legate, one way or another, this ends tonight."

"Of course, my Consul." Sulla replied.

After that, they started walking towards each, the pressure mounting and overwhelming all present as they approached closer and closer.

What happened after, Natsumi had no idea, for she blacked out.

-

When Natsumi opened her eyes, she found herself resting her head on Taiyang's lap, intact and definitely not burning modern Rome around them.

"Had a good nap, ~Master?." Taiyang asked.

"Yeah." The young kitsune replied. "That was quite something, wasn't it?"

All Natsumi could hear in response was heavy, labored breathing.

Concerned, she looked inward and saw a heavily breathing, just as heavily blushing, disarrayed kitsune with hands on her face with half lidded eyes that Natsumi could've swore had little images of dripping hearts in them.

"Why!? Why did I not depart five centuries early!?" Asked a lust-crazy fox "Why did I make myself suffer with the limp brood when I could've sampled their robust, dexterous and willful forefathers!?!"

Natsumi said nothing, just made a bee-line for the nearest source of cold water.

-

A/N: Heavy liberties were taken with Marius' and Sulla's personalities and circumstances.
 
[setgirl] A Mother's Comfort
KiMaSa

And more Nagato-chan!


A Mother's Comfort

"Teitoku," Nagato said, her voice mixed between concern and anger upon her return. After luring them out, the Battleship Demon exchanged shots at range before making smoke and escaping. "How could this have happened? First Harry and now Nagato-chan have been threatened on base by these monsters!" She spoke the last word with hate and contempt.

For his own part, Goto was only slightly less angry. HIS base had been attacked and his charges, his people, had been at risk. Only the fortuitous presence of Ruiner had prevented the death of Nagato-chan and the others. "This wasn't just a raid like the first time," Goto noted. "They very deliberately feinted us. They weren't just staging a raid," He looked at Ruiner, who stood with Kongo and Kirishima flanking her. "They were searching for something or somebody. Weren't they?" It wasn't a question.

"The Boss Lady has pissed off a lot of Abyssals. Her mother at the top of the list but yeah. I'm sure they were expecting her to be here."

"Will they try again?"

"Since I think you may have done too good a job running down the ones that got onto your base? Probably. If any of them got away to report that the Boss ain't here, then maybe not but until then, I expect so. Subcontinental Princess is a murdering bitch but she won't risk HER ass going this far out of her way to try getting through the toughest defenses on this side of the Pacific. She's an insane monster, not an idiot. But I watched her crush the skull of her oldest daughter and smile while doing it simply because she was getting too popular with the rank and file. That was a business decision for her. What the Boss Lady did? This isn't about business and I'm sure she'll promise anything to anybody who can get the Boss for her."

"I see," Goto said and turned to Oyodo. "This has happened twice. There will NOT be a third time. Use whatever we need from the discretionary fund. We don't have time to argue with a bunch of bureaucrats and politicians. We'll start with improving the passive barriers while we get more lights, motion sensors, Infrared detectors... I want a new security center. I want every centimeter of our perimeter monitored. THEN we'll look into other defenses. I want this base so tight that if the ghost of Erwin Rommel were to inspect our defenses, he'd say 'Damn!'. Do you read me, Oyodo? If you can't find what you need, come to me and we'll find it. If cost is an obstacle, come to me and we will make it NOT A PROBLEM."

"Yes, Teitoku. But what about the manpower to monitor these things and people to man any active defenses we try to set up?" It was the one flaw in the idea: All the equipment Goto wanted set up would be useless without people to monitor it, maintain it. And the base staff was stretched tight enough as it was.

"That's my responsibility. I'm going to cash in some favors but that's what they're there for." He looked at Nagato and Yamato. "The rest of us will handle the office for now. The girls are all with Housho right now."

"Thank you, Teitoku." Nagato replied simply and nodded her thanks.

She and Yamato wasted no time in reaching Housho's quarters. Lieutenant Kirby, Susan Nakamura, and 1701 were there as well, seeing to the girls. As Housho answered the door, Nagato and Yamato greeted her with their thanks as they were invited inside. Yamato spotted her daughter sitting next to Little-E while 1701 placed the caring hand of a 'big sister' on 'Little-E's' shoulder.

"You'll be alright. It's not just me saying that. Yamato chan is right here."

Little E nodded shakily and looked at the ersatz Super-Battleship with eyes imploring a promise that she would make it safe.

Yamato chan smiled gentle reassurance. She then looked up as Yamato stepped over. Are you alright, Yamato-chan?"

"Hai! Thanks to the Kami, Ruiner-san, and Nagato-chan."

Little-E looked at the battleship. "Yamato-chan saved me. Without her, I'd be dead."

Yamato smiled proudly. "She IS a Yamato, after all."

In the meantime, Nagato-chan was holding Saratoga as if giving comfort to Sara was the one thing keeping her from falling apart. The sight of her mother brought a flood of relief to Nagato-chan.

Sara looked at Nagato-sama and then nodded and smiled at Nagato-chan. "I'll be alright now. Thank you."

"Are you sure?"

"What danger could I be in with the best battleship in the world AND her mom here?"

Nagato-chan blushed a little at that. She looked up at her mom and hugged her tight.

"Are you alright?"

"Yes, mama. But I was scared! I was scared and I didn't know what to do."

"I hear you stood your ground and protected your fleet."

"I couldn't let them hurt my friends."

"Of course not."

"But Mama? Something inside me says I should feel bad for killing that PT imp. But I don't. I'm not sorry. I'm not sad. I'm ANGRY that it forced me to kill it."

"And I am angry that you were forced to do so," Nagato said, hugging her. "But you did what you had to and I am so very proud of you."
'You are a true battleship! I only hope you do not develop your brother's knack for attracting danger, my Nagato-chan!'
 
[setgirl] We're Shipgirls Now!
KiMaSa

In my search for setgirls to summon, I've fairly plumbed the depths of every serious naval movie I can think of. Aside from a few Japanese girls I'm saving for later, and some 'English' ones to be mentioned herein, I think I've run the lot. Of course, I haven't called forth The Red October, USS Neptune (from 'Grey Lady Down'), or the USS Georgetown (Supercarrier) but until shipgirls from the 1970s and 80s start manifesting, their use as decoys is nil.

So that leaves the non-serious films to consider: Musicals and comedies.


Unfortunately... We found one.


We're Shipgirls Now!


Fresh from the aftermath of the PT raid on Yokosuka, Leftenant Chalmers, and Lieutenant Kirby were in Yokota to receive the latest additions to their force. With Chalmers was Valiant, who availed herself of every opportunity to accompany her 'admiral' and joining Kirby was USS Commodore. As they waited, four ladies in English uniform proceeded in line and stopped in front of Leftenant Chalmers.

"Sir!" The biggest one saluted. "Deutschland reporting for duty along with Apollo, U-37, and Sea Flower!"

Chalmers returned the salute. "We were under the impression there were five of you?"

"Yes, sir. If you count that babbling bloody Yank!" She looked at Kirby. "Beg pardon sir."

"Am I to understand there is a problem, Deutschland?" Kirby asked.

"You might say that, sir. They're still trying to get the loony off the damn plane!"

Commodore grit her teeth. "Is that so? Sir? Request permission to retrieve our absent personnel."

"Granted."

Commodore stalked up the way the new arrivals had come, rolling up her sleeves. A few minutes later, she came back dragging a much taller girl by her ear.

"You can't do this to me! I'll write my congressman about this! I'll hire a lawyer! I'll... I'll..."

"You'll shut up or I'll BOOT you clear back to base!" Commodore growled.

"As you were, Commodore."

The veteran trainer released her wayward charge and saluted. "Sir! This is Alabama."

Alabama looked at him with wide, imploring eyes. "Your Officerness! Admiral! Your Majesty! There's been a terrible misunderstanding!"

"And what might that be?"

"I can't be here."

"And why is that?"

"I'm allergic to possibly dyin'."

"It's an unsafe world."

"Don't you love your country?" Commodore demanded.

"Absolutely! That's why I want to get back to it as fast as possible!"

"You're needed here," Kirby replied.

"Please! Reconsider, Your Magnanimosity! Please! I get seasick real easy! So how about a nice, safe posting in Nebraska?"

"Seasick, hmm?" Commodore asked skeptically.

"Very much! Just looking at pictures of the ocean makes me start to sway and go green!"

"We've got plenty of Dramamine for you," Commodore replied.

Alabama looked at her forlorn.

"Just where did she come from, sir? Something about her seems familiar, somehow."

Kirby pinched the bridge of his nose. "In The Navy, 1941... Abbott and Costello. Heaven help us!"
 
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