[D5, MA] Simple Machines

[Bayushi Kaguya]

Index-Middle-Ring-Pinky-Thumb

She thrust with each in individually, one at a time, mesmerized by the motion of muscle and tendon. A fully functioning organism. A machine.

Machines.

Index
The first finger directs.

Middle
The directive is followed by the center.

Ring
The machine is bound by custom, by ritual.

Pinky
The powerless follow, weakly.

The Thumb
Crucial, the opposition. Without it, no efficacy at all.

Of course, the metaphor only works when you recognize that the opposition is subordinated to the same will that directs the whole. If it, or indeed any element, obeys a different will, then the machine becomes dysfunctional. The rhythm breaks.

Without the Empress, no sovereign will. Instead, a multiplicity of wills. No rhythm. Discord.

Unacceptable.

How did we come to this?

The Empress was ailing.

From what did she ail?

Unknown

Who tried to save her?

No one.

Why?

Because they were unable.

Are all the Empress' servants so weak?

Because they did not wish to.

Why now?
To stop the succession

Why?
To end the Hantei

Why?
To seize power

Who is responsible?
I am.

Yes, you are. But you did not kill the Empress.
No.

No. You did not kill her. Who did?
Someone who wants power.

That is a long list. Who?
I don't know.

You do! You must! Mistress of Secrets, who? Who did it?

Kaguya set her hand down on the desk. "I will know. And I will avenge."