Days went by in which Alicia dedicated herself to three new rituals: meditation, departure preparations, and rendezvous. Speaking of meditation, she found her feelings all over the place. She had been diligently adhering to the regimen for the past few days, both on her own and under the tutelage of Toyoshige Domen. Positive self-affirmations were thrown at her like always. However, she felt little progress. She perceived her subconscious as an anti-social concept that refused to divulge its desires, yet felt vested with all the rights in the world to take the wheel of her and Orb. What her imaginary eyes always beheld did not stray far from the mould of her own face, the alternating dark hues, and sometimes the most obviously, the scattered streams of ideas.
However, within those streams of ideas lay a glimmer of insights into her subconscious's yearnings. Some days she would get snippets of inspiration, which would be summarised as something to do with the desire for recognition and validation—and it did not take long contemplation for it to send a small sting through her heart. Alicia had to revisit moments in the past when she often felt overlooked or undervalued. Even with the bestowed Arcane blessings, her doubts lingered. Was she doing her job well? Was she worthy in the eyes of people? Or more importantly, Was she worthy of being the bearer of Orb's Divine Grace? One thing that her conscious and subconscious saw eye to eye was... they both were in a struggle.
Days after those, however, new inspirations kept coming to Alicia like blinding flashes of light. Her subconscious suddenly echoed a determination to embrace her powers fully, to stride into the light with unwavering confidence, free from doubt's manacles. Which her consciousness was slow to learn.
Just as the two facets of her existence started walking side by side, Alicia complained inwardly.
All that, and she was still in the dark regarding her subconscious's motives to commandeer her body sans conscious consent.
And then there was Khaos, the Primordial Opposition who had somehow infiltrated her mind and lurked in the dark corners. Withstanding Khaos' dread-inducing outbursts while probing the depths of her subconscious proved no facile task. Frustration and confusion pulsated through Alicia's head. This was not alchemy, nor mathematics, nor a concept that, be it tangible or intangible, had a clear-cut pedigree.
Why do ascetics fancied abstract things so much? It's troublesome, you know?
Fortunately, Domen was both a gentle and patient man. Countless times did his lips bubbled, "Be at ease, Kiseko. Don't strain yourself in the pursuit of understanding; rather, acquaint yourself gradually with your subconscious. The mind, just like all aspects of life, needs practice," and his mouth was neither numb nor puckered. That was all well and good, but Alicia did not want to bide her time excessively, lest threats appeared too soon, and she be rendered incapable of using Orb without the perils of destroying the city and slaughtering anything that stood in her way other than monsters.
"You'll be fine," Domen soothed Alicia one day as they rode up the castle hill in the carriage, while Wisesa and Izel raced the qilins. "Nothing untoward shall befall you in Otnagochi. Your focus should centre on your research; let the rest take care of the rest."
"You speak as if everything is as smooth as a silk road," Alicia retorted, her brow furrowed.
Even behind those square lenses, the softness of Domen's eyes remained effective in melting the lass' demeanour when they locked stares. "I don't entirely think so," he replied. "But I have faith that you will live. You are a Child of Miracles, after all. And it would be profoundly disappointing if such a child possesses not Extraordinary Faith."
Orb rhymed with that, and a fresh wave of guilt washed over her again.
"May I ask you something, Lord Domen?" the lass changed the subject anew.
"Say, Kiseko."
"You love to talk about faith. Would ye mind share yer thoughts on the fanatical hermit priests who frequent the lower city?"
"Perhaps it's not a good comparison, but to me, their faith is what one might deem Extraordinary. A suitable role model for you."
"But they believe that mujinos are the embodiment of enlightenment itself. M-Minister Taro seemed less than pleased when ye credited their faith for the Kagatsean's endurance."
"Those so-called fanatics may rush to conclusions, but their faith is strong, after all. The absolute manifestation of enlightenment eludes all but the enlightened themselves. But that doesn't mean we are entirely lost as to what enlightenment is. What they profess could be a distilled fragment of that knowledge."
"You realised they share a similar understanding as the Palace attackers back then, aye?"
"Yes. And you're questioning why none of the hermits were disbanded or punished."
Alicia had yet to utter a word.
"This city needs a strong faith. In times of trouble, faith must shine through. And we need true faith. But to show true faith, there must be less of it."
"And the fanatics embody yon goal?"
"They aspire to glean enlightenment from mujinos, not tearing down Kagatse. They exemplify that even in these daunting times, faith should not waver. Since the flourishing of their thought, the Rikaiha temples entered a heyday filled with more faithful as a deterrent. Many new priests received vocations. More are seeking tranquillity through cultivation. Kagatse remains stable."
"So..., they differ from the palace invaders."
"Unfortunately, fanatics not only clash with true believers but often fall victim to massacres by other factions—the 'Zealots' who forced Kagatseans to submit and accept their version of enlightenment. They were suspected to be associated with the palace attackers. That must be disclosed. Do you understand this, Alicia?"
Alicia chose to avert her gaze. "I thought only asceticism was the difficult thing in religion."
Domen erupted in laughter, a sonorous peal that did startle the bookworm beside him. "Such is an idea. Regardless of the hue. As long as the world turns, ideas will clash with others, and any idea will have its fellow adherents clashing with each other too.”
Upon arrival at the Palace, Alicia and the others no longer found any gaping holes in the palace tower or war room. Everything stood as though the ambushes from days before had never happened. What did differ, though, were the elite soldiers and automatons stationed every five metres throughout the palace grounds.
"Her Imperial Highness Dajō Daijin, Yūsha Mōmoku, enters the war room," the attendant in the chamber announced. And once again, came the blind shogun in the company of her courtiers. On this occasion, she was clad in white royal garb, accentuated by a crimson sash.
A brief meeting began; they raised their circular-striped cups and gulped down the first round of tea.
"Tomorrow you will return to your respective domains to once again defend the life, legacy, and sovereignty of Kagatse, and by extension, all of humanity within," the Blind Shogun opened the floor, eyes closed as she raised her gaze. "I have stood by you through many battles, yet in this wave, I regret that I must be absent among you again."
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"Dajō Daijin-sama, do not be dismayed!" Hokutoji Taro responded resolutely. "Someone must guard Takamagahara. One servant shall wage battle on a different field."
An interesting metaphor. It was a pity Izel looked annoyed at that, for her mind was echoing the sentiment about the cadre of useless men back in the enclave.
"I know my servants are loyal and understanding. Nevertheless, I bow to you, brave warriors," the shogun replied. "But you are right, Taro-dono. I must raise my guard against potential invasions from the enemy that ambushed us in this room. Hence, I have commissioned Toyoshige Domen to come on my behalf, ensuring peace among the people of Otnagochi and its environs."
That did not sit well with Hokutoji Taro's keen ears. His head bowed in submission, but his glare was fixed on the placid-looking priest. The tension in the atmosphere choked those who understood. The shogun should have not dispatched any more men. He dared to testify that the morale of the warriors there had never been affected by the presence of a single Rikaiha priest or any number of insane hermits, if so ordered.
The shogun continued, "Before we conclude this final meeting and you prepare for tomorrow, I have a few announcements to make. It is with great joy to declare that the supply of Ningyō Eihei made by Zuban Engineering is ready and delivered to each safe zone. Of course, you, the daimyos, have been verified to control them with chakura."
The announcement was met with much excitement by each of the daimyos present.
"That...," Taro frowned at Domen again—an incredulous look this time. "How did you convince those conglomerates, Domen-dono?"
"I told you—"
The minister's palm intercepted his words. "You can keep the sermon, I understand now. In any case, the daimyos and I are grateful."
Domen, as always, was too generous to muster a loving smile.
"Further news entails a conference with representatives from Chixian Shenzhou concerning the coalition to eradicate the mujino plague," the shogun pressed on. They have extended an invitation for our representatives to their country and negotiate about this further."
Murmurs filled the air; the daimyos exchanged hushed words before nodding to their supreme leader.
"Two pieces of good news is a blessing for all of us, Dajō Daijin-sama!" praised the daimyo of the Ayamegawa clan.
"It's a modest stride forward—they still haven't said yes—but progress, nonetheless. All thanks to my disclosure of the unique Arcane wielder Alicia Crimsonmane, who visited and graciously offered her aid. You may express your gratitude to her, and also to her friend who encouraged this action."
Most daimyo still had their head swaying to each other. The defence minister's pursed lips betrayed his perplexity and prestige. Itto Harada, the daimyo of Yomi with a conical hat, was the first to bow to the two youngsters without a second thought. Domen, with his characteristic sincere grin, naturally bowed along. Hashomon and Henge, though hesitant at first, bowed as well.
But the shogun did not await everyone's acknowledgement. "After we survive this wave, I will send our representatives to travel there."
"Make me the envoy to Chixian Shenzhou!" Wisesa volunteered, raising his hand. Why, of all things, did he have to raise his hand? All eyes in the assembly fixed upon him.
"I sensed your heartbeat quickening when I broke the news," the shogun remarked. "Though in truth I only need representatives from Kagatse—"
"That's fine. Let me come along." Wisesa cut in casually. Alicia, next to him, avoided looking at anyone out of embarrassment.
"Why do you wish to go there badly, Wisesa-san, Chosen by Koma-inu?"
"Uhm... I mean, if you want to get an agreement with Chixian Shenzhou, you need me. I have a friend there. An official, no less. That should smooth things over." Wisesa fabricated.
The Barong inside Wisesa suddenly barked. "No, you don't. I do!"
Wisesa's statement elicited gasps from the meeting attendees. "What do you mean you have friends there?" Taro inquired.
"Hey, don't you know who I am? Well, maybe I never said it, but I am the crown prince of the state of Alas Purwo in the Lojitengara Federation. I have... diplomatic experience with Chixian Shenzhou."
Silence gripped the meeting room.
"Y-you really?" Alicia hesitated.
"Of course...!" Wisesa's eyes flashed sharply at her. The lass did not comprehend it. "Of course, I've had dealings with Chixian Shenzhou."
"Where did you meet? In the cage where you were chained?" The Barong inside him suddenly mocked.
"What? Shut up—"
Alicia summoned a pinch of Orb's plasma and zapped Wisesa's arm. Fortunately, the lad was not stupid enough to retaliate with expletives.
"Oh, sorry, everyone. I thought someone was heckling me," The lad's index finger toyed with his temple. "Just voices. In my head."
The shogun's smug smile gradually faded. That was when Wisesa sobered up and left his mouth agape like a fool. The maddening pounding of his heart alone reached his own ears.
"Alicia-san, is it true that Wisesa-san is the crown prince of Alas Purwo?" asked the shogun.
"Aye. That's not wrong, Your Imperial Highness," Alicia replied.
"I can't believe that the one who helped us is from a high-ranking family."
"Hey, in case you didn't know, Alicia here is the daughter of the Baron of her village. Well, a Baron, you know, not a high-ranking nobleman but well, just so you know," Wisesa replied in an attempt to break the ice; he swore heat travelled through his body and he assumed it was the shogun's mana!
The blind shogun's expression stayed deadpan. Her eyes were closed, but she seemed to be observing the look on Wisesa's face—again, he swore he could feel it! Not long after, the shogun's expression suddenly broke, "If that's your wish, it can be arranged. I am thinking of you going with Henge of the Magisterium."
A slow relieved breath escaped from Wisesa's nasal cavity. Let's hope this one she did not hear, the lad wondered. He shrugged, "I can get along with anyone."
Since there were no further objections or suggestions, they raised their cups and finished another glass of tea.
Toyoshige Domen rose to his feet and pulled out a stick with a zigzag paper hanger, his throat emitting a strong, resonant, commanding harmony. The atmosphere of the war room changed to that of another world. Swinging his staff and accompanied by a servant's flute, the priest sang a prayer of blessing for all of them. A prayer that called upon the three gods of Rikaiha to be present in their midst and send them enlightenment while fighting in the war or dying in the process. Still humming in an up-and-down tone, the prayer lasted until Domen retreated to the sliding door, and vanished behind the passage.
"May the Three Gods lead you to true enlightenment," said Shogun Yotusba; a traditional closure of their meetings.
"May the Eye of Citlalicoatl watch over us and see us worthy," Elder Cipac of Tamoanchan represented the faith of his people.
Everyone expressed their faith, Alicia reminded herself again. After a few encounters with Domen, only now did she feel eager to contribute to it. "May the Silent Divine grant Eternal Peace upon his servants."
Wisesa, as before, paid no regard to his faith's motto.
***
As the meeting attendees departed to their respective places, Alicia walked right next to Domen rather than with her other friends. Domen, in his counsel, remarked, "There's no need to devote all your time to meditation. Return to your lodgings and get some rest. You need it for tomorrow's journey and the activities ahead."
"Not even half an hour?" Alicia implored. Whenever she was with Domen, meditating felt less like a nightmare, so she reckoned.
A small chuckle escaped the priest. "A diligent child, aren't you? You've worked hard and well," Domen massaged her back as they walked. "Relax a little. You are progressing faster than that of any hermits I have taught. Soon, Kiseko. You will become a more powerful Arcane wielder."
"'Tis thanks to your guidance," Alicia bowed with a blushing grin. "What about you, Lord Domen?"
Before entering the carriage, Domen caught a glimpse of the Takamagahara scenery and the array of ships and crows in the sky. "I will return to the psychiatric clinic and pay a final visit to my student before we meet again in a few days."
"Then let me come with you!" Alicia exclaimed. "I've never visited him, but at least I can help him a wee bit with Orb's might."
"Your actions are noble, Miss." Domen nodded. "I understand. Let's embark on the carriage."
The carriage, as usual, only took Alicia and Domen down the mountain, and they had to proceed on foot to the station thereafter. Alicia paid little mind to the priest's decision to mingle with the general populace in the crowded train; she, in fact, quite enjoyed it. There had been a good number of times she had followed Domen touring the Upper and Lower City districts by train, but the head priest preferred still to inquire about the lass' life, occasionally share his own life experiences as well, and more often than not, banter with her. The religious discourse only came up when people sought his blessing, as Alicia's pedestal during meditation, or as a short, lighthearted battle of wits to kill time on the train.
The journey from the palace to the psychiatric clinic took three stops. It was only when their eyes caught sight of the wide clinic building with the giant circular bar above the door that their steps came to a halt. Their calm, gentle faces contorted. A medical cart not from the psychiatric clinic was parked near the gate. A larger crowd had gathered near it.
There, Dome also observed a pair of elite palace soldiers standing still among the medics. The very same pair who should, in Domen's opinion, have been standing by the door of Donbe's room, not the carriage one. []