“Of course, I’d be more than happy to speak to my father for you, Takatsukasa-sama!” one girl gushed, a daughter from the Three Hundred, whose family was one running a long-standing media business.

“Me as well, Takatsukasa-sama.” Her friend declared, a rather plain-looking girl for a daughter of the Three Hundred, but the industry her family was in was anything but. Yamanouchi-san’s family is the major shareholder in Astellas Pharma, owning more than half the stock. That plays in well with my aspirations. If Ether Healing or similar abilities can be medicalised, well, it’ll put a lot of companies out of business, those that don’t get in on the ground floor… “I must say I’m a little surprised at your interest, Takatsukasa-sama, though perhaps I shouldn’t be. You have always been a follower of Ichijou-sama, and she has a keen interest in the stock market…”

“Yamanouchi-san!” the other girl hissed, and she flushed, realising she had been disrespectful. Her face then went deathly pale.

“Uh, I meant no office, I promise. Your new house is a noble and honourable one, and…” as she muttered desperately to stave off her insult, Hinata waved it off with a generous gesture.

“Well, we all make mistakes, don’t we? I promise not to hold it against you. Yamanouchi-san. I must say, I’m very much looking forward to what your father has to say on our proposal. Grandfather is backing it. Well, both grandfathers, if you know what I mean.” Hinata was smiling, but her opponent wasn’t feeling happy, sweat rolling down her face in a very un-noble manner. “As for Mayumi…” Hinata clearly omitted any honorific, showing her closeness and new standing. “… I wouldn’t say I’m a follower. A friend certainly. Best friend, I would say. But we do definitely share an interest.”

“Uh, we should be going. Sorry, Takatsukasa-sama!” As one girl hauled the other away, Hinata wasn’t sure whether to laugh or sigh. Really, I don’t want to just throw my new weight around, acting like Mayumi does. But it annoyed me when she called me a follower. It touched a nerve. Perhaps because it was true. Back then, we couldn’t have a genuine friendship. Our status was too different. Well, it’s all a nonsense. My bloodline was as good as hers. Well, now…

“A lot of the Three Hundred don’t know quite how to treat you.” Kazumi observed, as they headed towards the serving area where dedicated chefs prepared deluxe meals for the students of Hanafubuki each day. “After all, before you were just like them, and now… well, the Takatsukasa name is powerful.”

“Yes. That’s why I wanted it.” Hinata agreed. “Well, a large part of it was I wanted my birthright, and to make mother less sad. But it definitely does help with my long-term plans. And it should stop the nobility looking down on Akio. Oh, I’ll have the seafood salad.” She said, and Kazumi quickly spoke to the staff. Moments later she carried a pair of trays with rice, the aforementioned salads, tea and other drinks, as well as various side dishes.

“Over there.” Hinata gestured to a table where Miyu was sitting along with her strange bodyguard, as well as Motoko and Natsumi. Mayumi was there as well, her androgynous, sharply-dressed bodyguard also watching. Really, we are just playing pretend here, those of us of the nobility. The Three Hundred don’t have bodyguards, just the Fifty-Eight. Our school is safe, we are just aping the adults.

“Hinata, over here.” Mayumi waved cheerfully, and as Hinata sat down, taking her tray from Kazumi, she felt warm inside.

“Sorry, I was talking business with those girls. Though I believe Fujiwara-sama has already been bringing the media companies to heel, so that might have been in vain, perhaps.” Hinata said, picking up her knife and fork elegantly.

“Well, whatever you were talking about must have been something important.” Mayumi pointed out. “The look on Yamanouchi-san’s face wasn’t one of joy.”

“Well, times have changed, haven’t they Mayumi?” Hinata raised an eyebrow, taking a delicate bite of her meal, enjoying the flavour, before swallowing. “Just a few careless words. But I am not one to hold grudges, no, not I.”

“I beg to differ on that.” Mayumi snorted, composed even doing that. “The way you forced Takatsukasa-san to heel certainly wasn’t forgiving, even if grandfather and I can see it was to their own benefit. Not everyone sees that though…” She glanced over to another table, and Hinata did sigh this time, as her cousin, well, now her sister, was looking at her coldly.

“Really, it’s short-sighted.” Mayumi continued, winding her fork in the pasta she was eating, preferring Western utensils for Western meals. “You were right, Sakura-san hasn’t lost anything, far from it. She would have to marry out, whether you got your way or not.”

“Like you?” Hinata teased. Miyu looked a little down at that, so she regretted saying it, but as ever, Mayumi didn’t read the mood.

“Me? Hardly. While I will have to marry out, there just aren’t any good candidates at the moment. As the sole daughter of Ichijou house, my partner would have to be from Takatsukasa or Fujiwara house, or in very rare circumstances, a house like Tsumura.” She nodded at Motoko, who smiled, a touch pained. “Well, you should be in a similar position, Miyu-san. Honoka-san would be the heir, since neither of you have brothers, so someone would marry in. Out is the only way for you.”

“Well, my proposed engagement has been cancelled, right now…” Miyu muttered quietly. “… I want to focus on my duties. I have no time for marriage.” Hinata didn’t miss her glance at Michiru, her bodyguard.

“Well, Akio has an agreement with Fujiwara-sama that your engagement will be when he feels the time is right. So there’s nothing to worry about.” Hinata said, and Motoko agreed with her.

“Indeed. Your value is simply more than your bloodline, Miyu.” She struggled to address her without honorifics, but was improving in that regard, Natsumi too, though she always looked so amusingly distressed when doing so, the feeling of disrespect ingrained in her. “And Akio has taken responsibility for you, he will ensure you a happy union you can accept. Just as he did for us.”

“Oh, so does that mean Akio is looking for close ties to Fujiwara house then, through you?” Mayumi leaned forwards, interested. “It would be a prudent choice. There’s no way that he could marry Honoka-san, as she will be the heir, so…”

“No, not at all, Mayumi.” Hinata denied it, exasperated, but also a little amused and happy at the frank discussion. She’s treating me as an equal, as she promised. Well, she’s still bossy and condescending as always, but I don’t think she knows any other way to be. “It may not seem like it, but Akio hardly seeks out women.” Her smile was gentle, and she felt great relief, after having checked her phone at the start of lunch to see a message from Shiro, stating that Akio had woken up and all was well. “Though if a woman does seek him earnestly, he finds it hard to deny her. Though not impossible, as poor Kana is finding. As for Miyu… Akio understands what a great burden she is labouring under, and also respects her gifts, her talents.” She winked, and Miyu looked down, a little embarrassed.

“He does indeed praise my dancing and the effect it has on his Territory.” she affirmed.

“Of course, there are some exceptions.” Hinata shrugged. “Such as Shiro. Well, they have been close for years, it’s quite understandable.”

“Well, why push Sakura-san on him then?” Mayumi asked. “I’ve been wondering that ever since the meeting.” She turned, and asked her bodyguard to invite Sakura-san over. They watched as she approached and exchanged words, only for Sakura-san to scowl, shaking her head, before she turned away from them, her back hunched, as if she wished to avoid scrutiny.

“I am sorry, Mayumi-sama. She declined your offer. Please forgive me.”

“Well, it’s hardly your fault the girl is stubborn.” Mayumi waved it off. “Really, she’s got to get her act together, otherwise you will seize everything from Takatsukasa house, Hinata.”

“At this point I already have.” Hinata said smugly. “Once grandfather agreed, it was over. How can they compete against Akio and his influence? As for your question…” she pursed her lips, unsure of exactly how to express it, before deciding to go with the truth. “No, I don’t really want Sakura to be involved with Akio.” Before anyone could protest she continued rapidly. “I don’t want more rivals. None of us do, really.” Motoko and Natsumi nodded at that. “But we’ll accept them, as long as they aren’t too horrible, or just using Akio. I’m quite fortunate that I like all of the girls Akio has so far…” she smiled at Motoko and Natsumi, who agreed. “… but that’s not to say that’ll always be the case. But when I entered this relationship… no, when I pushed myself inside using underhanded means and family pressures, I was already a nuisance to Eri. She graciously allowed me to seek my own happiness…”

“Us too.” Natsumi agreed with a sigh.

“Yes, the two of you as well.” Hinata agreed. “So, I find it hard to protest anyone else who wants Akio as we did. As for Sakura… originally, I was sure that your grandfather, mine and Fujiwara-sama were all scheming to tie Akio to the nobility through Sakura. She was the logical choice.”

“Yes, I believe that to be the case, but when Motoko-san here expressed interest, and you yourself, Hinata…” Mayumi mused. “… as well as the nobility unearthing others like him, well, it was deemed less necessary to use a precious daughter of Takatsukasa house for one man. Far better to see if he can tame you unruly girls.” She smiled to show she meant no malice. “Besides, in the end, he is marrying into Takatsukasa house anyway. Strange how that all works out.”

“Well, I think that Akio’s value is certainly no lesser than the nobility. And as a daughter of Takatsukasa, I can now say that without it sounding like mere envy.” Hinata continued eating her salad between words. My appetite is back now that Akio is well again. “While I’m sure these Chosen Ichijou house has gathered have some uses, compared to Akio… well, it’s lions to housecats, no? But if Sakura really wanted to make a play for Akio, I wouldn’t stand in her way, and I’d even let her child be the next heir, as I promised. I’m not so much interested in Takatsukasa house as what we can do with it, the respect and authority it gives us. Well, Sakura has had her world upended, so… I’ll give her time to decide what she wants. There are still plenty of sons of noble houses she could marry. Takatsukasa house may have the legacy, but they aren’t in the position you or Miyu are in, Mayumi. Well, they weren’t. See, we’ll make Takatsukasa great again, revitalise it both financially and strategically. So then… well, you see the problem?”

“Right.” Mayumi agreed thoughtfully. “If Takatsukasa house regains its former wealth and status, then Sakura-san has the same limited choices I do. Well, I suppose Miyu-san and Sakura-san could compete for my brother, but…”

“Yes, you get it. So sadly, I’m pretty much sabotaging her chances, by improving her standing. Hence why I offered her an out.” Sakura has always looked out for me in her own way, even if it was condescending in a different way to Mayumi. I do feel a bit guilty my plans will have an impact on her life… but I’ll do it anyway. We need this for our goals… “But it’s up to her. If she has any other intentions, I can support her. I’m just saying I could accept it, if matters ended up panning out that way. Well, I wonder how things would have turned out if Akio was with Sakura rather than us? I guess we’ll never know.”

“So, on other matters, since we got quite distracted…” Mayumi asked, leaning in again, eyes bright and eager. “… I have heard that several eminent foreign visitors have been put up with lavish ceremony at the Fukumoto estate. And all of these ladies and gentlemen are in rather poor health.”

“You heard correctly. The next batch for Healing has come. Word of mouth has proved rather effective, after the last batch. I have to thank you for that, even if you made quite the profit off our work.” Hinata laughed.

“Well, business is business. Besides, we’re partners and friends, right? Even so, you’re still my cheeky kouhai, so you owe it to your senpai to share!” Mayumi retorted.

“Bring in a suitable candidate, and of course we’ll share. But at a fairer split this time!” Hinata shot back, all business. “It’s a shame though, Japan is boiling at the moment, it isn’t a good time for foreign visitors. The violence has died down, but protests are still continuing.”

“Speaking of foreigners…” Mayumi said, gesturing with her fork, an act only Mayumi could get away with. “I hear that you are travelling to the United Kingdom at the end of the week, Miyu-san, Motoko-san.”

As usual, she treats Natsumi as a mere bodyguard, not worthy of mentioning separately. Oh well, she’s making an effort, I guess we can work on that prejudice over time. Hinata glanced at Kazumi, happy that since meeting Akio and the others, she had grown closer to her bodyguard, now treating her more as a friend than a mere paid servant.

“Yes, I am grateful to Fujiwara-sama for the opportunity.” Motoko said, nodding at Miyu. “It would have sufficed Akio merely accompanying you, Miyu, but to think I get to stand as Akio’s fiancée at such a major event, it delights me… well, I feel sorry for Natsumi, but…”

“Don’t feel bad, I’ll be there as well. I think Akio will make some time for me too. I won’t let you have all the fun, Motoko.” Natsumi laughed happily. Mayumi looked a little confused at the closeness between them, before shrugging.

“Sometimes I forget you are both marrying the same man. It must be difficult, maintaining a proper relationship, that way.”

“Not at all.” Natsumi shook her head. “I admit, it was hard at first, but… when you have those of all different status, such as Shaeula, who is a genuine princess, or Eri, a normal, ordinary girl… when we are with each other, or Akio, status isn’t something we think about.”

“Yes, I do not think it would be possible to maintain harmony otherwise.” Motoko agreed. “There are challenges, but we do what we can. After all, compared to status, the fact that not every fiancée is even human bears far greater weight.”

“Yes, I imagine it would.” Mayumi made a face at that, thinking. “I still can’t believe it. So, anyway, you’ll be missing some school. I hope your grades can bear that, it wouldn’t do to let them slip…”

“Oh, you know first-hand the benefits of Chirurgery, Mayumi.” Hinata scoffed. “They’ll be fine. I do wish I could have gone too, but instead I’ll satisfy myself with laying the groundwork for our business ventures and the strengthening of Takatsukasa house. Although…” she grinned at Miyu and the others. “… if you get a chance at the gala you are attending, do feel free to network for me. Healing, business opportunities… we can’t confine ourselves to Japan alone!”

“I am not sure what opportunities I will have, since Honoka-san and I am there mostly as a reason for Akio-san and Motoko-san to be invited. Grandfather has met the Queen before, in the past, and as one of the most influential figures in Japan, it was possible to secure both us and Tsumura-sama and his family an invitation.”

“Grandfather and father, since they oversee the JSDF, and are from a longstanding noble house second only to the Three Great Houses, were able to be invited on Fujiwara-sama’s recommendation.” Motoko explained. “It is a longstanding tradition in the United Kingdom that the majority of royal sons go into their armed forces. The current heir and his two sons both served. Therefore the Queen and the Royal Family look favourably on us.”

“Well, my grandfather has met the Queen as well.” Mayumi interjected, and Hinata had to laugh at her competitive streak.

“It’s not a competition.” Hinata managed after her mirth had faded. Neither of my grandfathers have. But… the Queen isn’t our objective. The Princess is.”

“Yes, I am rather nervous.” Motoko said softly. “We need things to go well with Princess Eleanor, else all Akio’s plans will be ruined.”

“There’s no need to worry.” Natsumi reassured her. “If she’s like Akio, she should be grateful for the assistance. We are warning her of grave danger, right?”

As the girls talked, Hinata finished her food. I am definitely jealous, but then, Akio spent time resolving my worries with the nobility, so I suppose it’s only fair to let Motoko and Natsumi have their time with Akio. Even so, a trip abroad together… I want that too. Hmm, well, perhaps when it’s time to start overseas acquisitions of wealth and businesses… though… her thoughts turned back to the civil unrest. It’s only a matter of time before the rest of the world start having similar incidents. In fact, there are rumours about South Korea and the disappearance of an entire army detachment. As for countries that we don’t have diplomatic relations with… who knows what could be happening there, unseen and unknown?

“What are you worried about?” Kazumi mouthed at her, and Hinata shrugged.

“I’m just considering what might happen to overseas assets in the near future. Perhaps it might be wiser to stick to Japanese expansion for now…” Even the value of foreign currencies might fluctuate wildly. Ugh, matters are so complicated. I think it might be prudent to step up capital spending, and bring in tangible assets we need, such as construction supplies, raw materials and more…

“Well, this was fun, but lunch is almost over.” Mayumi said, stretching languidly. “Hinata, are you free this weekend then? I was thinking it has been a while since you’ve visited the Ichijou estate.”

“Well, I was planning to deal with a lot of issues regarding our expansion…” Hinata began, only for Mayumi to exclaim brightly.

“Excellent. Well, I am your business partner, right? I should be involved in that! We’ve had preliminary blueprints for our new factories sent through. Construction is due to begin this week. Maybe we can tour the progress too…”

Well, that’s true, but only for one industry. Akio and Ixitt have plans for a lot more than just that. Still… Hinata found herself smiling, the sting of not being included in the visit to the UK being soothed by the thoughts of her grand plans. “Fine. You have to show me that you are worthy of being our partner!”

“How rude! Really, why am I friends with such a cheeky girl as you?” Mayumi grinned. “I shall call you later to sort out the details…”

As Hinata left, Kazumi following, she shook her head. I’m cheeky? No, you’re the one who’s cheeky, Mayumi. Well, we’ll see if you can keep that attitude when you see what Ixitt has made… I can hardly believe it myself. If we can replicate it here or transport it to the Material… well, those who control power, control technology, and those that control technology, they control the world!