Heart of Shadows
Chapter 4: Uprising
Minato found himself walking through a beautiful green forest. He pondered how he arrived there, but he decided to explore a little. He walked through the forest, remembering the times he would find Yukari lost and he would carry her back home. Similar to this though, he heard someone crying. Minato followed the cry until he got to the brightest area of the forest. He heard the cry coming from a high place. He looked up and saw a little girl with long blond hair sitting on a tree limb. She wears a one piece dress with a ribbon on the back, and her eyes were filling up with tears.
"Hey," Minato called out. She heard his voice and looked at him.
"Are you okay? What's the matter? Can't get down?"
She wiped some of the tears away and nodded her head. Minato showed her a warm smile and held his arms out.
"Then I'll help you. Jump down and I promise to catch you. I won't let you fall; your big brother promises."
Her eyes widen at his words. The girl nodded again and slowly stood up, hanging onto the tree. She was very nervous, but she listened to Minato and closed her eyes then jumped. To her, the fall was long. When she landed, she was scared to open her eyes.
"It's okay now. I got you," Minato reassured her. She slowly opened her eyes and found herself in Minato's arm.
"See? I told you big brother would catch you. What's your name?"
She wiped the remaining tears from her face and sniffled a little.
"Kusano," she whispered.
"Kusano; I'm Minato," he introduced. Minato let her down and kneeled to her level.
"Are you okay Kusano? Why were you up in that tree?"
"Big sis Takami got hurt and my powers ran out of control. I was scared," she replied. Kusano gripped Minato's shirt.
"Please come save me big brother. Please help me."
Kusano started to distance away from Minato. He kept hearing her shout out for help until she was completely gone. The area itself started to disappear as well and Minato vanished along with it.
"Minato, Minato," someone called out. He opened his eyes and saw reality. Hovering above him was Musubi in the new gym clothes Yukari gave her.
"Minato; are you okay?" She asked him. Minato sat up and rubbed his head.
"Yeah; I'm alright. It was just a dream," he reassured her. Minato stood up and stretched out. That's when he took in the scenery and realized where they were.
"That's right; I forgot we're at Izumo Inn."
Yesterday
After talking to Kai yesterday, he and Musubi ended up soaring through the air after Musubi chanted her norito; however, Musubi didn't plan out the landing part and they plummeted to their demise. But with luck on their side, something intervened and slowed their declivity. Whatever stopped them made them crash into a tree and fall in someone's back yard. Minato hit the ground first and he unintentionally caught Musubi by letting her fall on his back.
"Ah, okay, that hurt. Are you okay Musubi?" He asked. Minato turned to look at his sekirei, but turned red when he saw her clothes in tatters.
"I'm okay Minato," she replied unaware of her condition.
"Ummm," someone said. The two turned around and saw Miya standing in front of them.
"Are you two okay?" She asked.
Over the next few minutes, Minato was getting patched up by a man with silver hair, wearing a long sleeved collar shirt and black pants.
"Alright, there you go," the guy said. He puts the bandages away and placed the kit back where it belonged.
"Thanks for your help," Minato complimented.
"Don't worry about it; I only did it because Miya asked me to," he said. Minato nodded his head and scanned the room, admiring the décor.
"Minato," Musubi called out. He turned his head and saw Musubi wearing a pink kimono.
"Look, I'm wearing a kimono."
"I figured with her clothes all tattered, she could use mine for the time being," Miya spoke up. Minato scratched the back of his head.
"Please accept our apologies, wearing your clothes and dropping in unexpectedly," he apologized. Miya giggled.
"No need to apologize; I was happy to help. My husband's rule was tnever turn anyone away who might need help," she replied. Minato heard that word and looked at the guy who patched him up.
"So then are you," he began. He waved his hand no.
"No I'm not her husband," he corrected.
"I am," Takehito said as he walked into the room. Upon entrance, Musubi looked at Takehito.
"Takehito, is that you?" She questioned. Takehito smiled and looked at Musubi.
"Well well, surprise seeing you here Musubi. Since you're here, I take it this guy is your ashikabi," he said. Minato was confused.
"Wait, you know about sekirei?" He asked Takehito.
"Of course; I am one of the higher ups at MBI," he revealed. Minato's eyes widened, but he calmed down after Takehito explained. He then formally introduces himself, his wife Miya, and the guy, Kagari. Minato introduces himself as well and now the five are currently sitting at a table with food. Thanks to Musubi's loud stomach, Miya offered to feed them.
"Wow; this food tastes fantastic," Minato complimented.
"Aww, you're too kind," Miya replied smiling.
"Hey, do we have guests?" Someone asked. Minato looked up and immediately did an excellent spit take when he saw Uzume walk in, wearing only her bra and panties.
"Hello there, my name is Uzume," she greeted. Musubi introduced themselves while Minato was too stunned to speak.
"You know you should put some clothes on when guests are here," Kagari scolded.
"I don't see the problem. Besides, I'm wearing panties this time," she replied.
"That's not the point," Kagari said. Uzume sat with them and started eating. Minato finally managed to cure his paralysis and explained what happened. He even mentioned how Kai, without using his name, told him about the place. He, Miya, and Takehito discussed the rent and terms. After finishing, Minato has now found him and Musubi a place to live.
Now
Musubi and Minato found Miya practicing her sword skills with falling leaves. She would wait patiently with her eyes closed. With a swift slash, she cuts a leaf in two. Musubi was amazed by her skills and had stars in her eyes from happiness.
"She's amazing," Minato said. Musubi suddenly jumped out the window stating,
"Landlady, please spar with me."
She dropped to ground level.
"Hehehe, alright then; but I won't hold back," Miya warned her.
"Please don't," Musubi said.
"Wait a minute Musubi," Minato said. But it was too late. Musubi charged at Miya and launched a straight punch. Miya easily dodged it and tapped her with the sword.
"You're too reckless," she said. Musubi tried again and threw a combo in hopes of landing a hit; however, Miya was too fast for her and she effortlessly avoided each one. Minato quickly ran downstairs and outside, seeing Takehito watching the ladies.
"Shouldn't we stop her? What if Musubi hurts Miya?" He asked concerned. Takehito laughed.
"Don't worry about Miya; she's a master when it comes to a sword. The better question is, what if she hurts Musubi?" He asked back. "Miya knows what she's doing. She's had a sword before you were even born, she's that good."
Minato sat down next to Takehito and watched the ladies go at it.
"You're putting too much power into your attacks, making yourself vulnerable to a counterstrike," Miya scolded as she tapped Musubi again. "Let your power flow. If you put too much power into your attacks, you won't be able to defend yourself if your opponent attacks."
Miya hasn't even unsheathe the sword yet, letting Minato know she was in full control.
After a while, Musubi got tired and accepted defeat. Miya congratulated her and told her to relax in the bath. Musubi tried getting Minato to join her, but he refused on the account of seeing her naked again. The blood rushed to his nose just thinking about it. Musubi understood and went to bathe. The landlords went inside to prepare breakfast.
While they were gone, Minato walked to the tree where he saw little Kusano. He studied the tree, but he didn't find anything significant about it. He slowly reached out and touched the tree, feeling nothing but bark.
"This tree, Kusano, and the dream I had about her; are they all connected somehow?" He asked aloud. "Hmmm, was it her who saved Musubi and me that night?"
Kai
Kai and his newest sekirei, Akitsu were on their way to Izumo Inn to pick up Uzume. Kai was thinking about something weird. Apparently, he received an email stating he doesn't have to go to university and should focus on winning the Sekirei Plan; and it was sent by Hiroto Minaka himself. Kai pondered why he would do something like this.
"Master Kai, are you okay?" Akitsu asked him. Kai snapped out his train of thoughts and nodded at his sekirei. She apparently prefers to call him Master, which Kai hasn't gotten used to yet. No matter how many times he tells her not to call him Master, she finds it nessecary.
He went back to thinking about that email and wondered,
'Is this just for me or did anyone else receive the same message?'
The two finally made it to the inn, but they heard noises coming from the side. Kai and Akitsu went to investigate, only to see Uzume jump out the window with a towel wrapped around her body. She landed on the fence and said towel opened up and revealed her breasts, making both Kai and Minato blush in surprise. Uzume then saw Minato.
"Ah, are you that girls ashikabi?" She asked him. Minato could only nod his head.
"Well do you think you can stop her because I don't feel like fighting."
She jumped behind him and hid herself.
"So can you tell her to stop please?"
Musubi looked out the window to the bathroom and saw Uzume holding onto Minato, making her jealous and a little angry.
"Get away from him," she commanded. Musubi too jumped down to ground level.
"Now Musubi, please calm down," Minato tried soothing.
"Yeah, listen to your ashikabi," Uzume stated.
"Get away from Minato NOW!" Musubi exclaimed. She rushed at the two, freaking Minato out. Kai was about to act when Musubi cocked her arm back; however, Miya suddenly appeared and blocked the punch with a silver platter and a ladle in her hand. The punch caused a dent in the platter. Miya tapped Musubi on the head with the ladle.
"Undecency is forbidden in the inn," she scolded. Musubi covered the place she was hit.
"I'm sorry," she apologized.
"Yeah, take that," Uzume stated. Miya turned her sights on her.
"The same goes for you Uzume," she disciplined. Uzume snickered and scratched her cheek. That's when the air around Miya started to darken. There was a sinister aura emanating from her as she smiled devilishly.
"I will not tolerate violence at the inn. Have I made myself clear?" She questioned. Uzume hid behind Minato again, and he nodded his head.
"Yes ma'am; it won't happen again," he said. Miya died the aura down and the atmosphere returned to normal. She walked back into the inn still smiling.
"Miya can be pretty scary when she's angry," Uzume spoke up.
"You got that right," Minato replied. Uzume came out from behind Minato and saw Kai approaching. Happily, she ran to him and hugged him.
"It's great to see you Kai. Good morning," she greeted. Kai didn't respond, but instead was looking the other way with red cheeks.
"Kai what's wrong? Are you sick?" Uzume asked. Kai shook his head no and kept looking away. That's when Akitsu got Uzume's attention and pointed out that she was only in a towel and her breasts were pressed against Kai. Uzume laughed and linked her arm with Kai's.
"I'll put some clothes on after I introduce you to another ashikabi."
She dragged Kai to where Minato and Musubi were standing, and when they got a good look at each other, their eyes widen in pure shock.
"Kai?" Minato said.
"Minato? You're an ashikabi as well?" Kai questioned. Minato nodded his head and explained how he met Musubi and what they've been through so far. Kai did the same and explained how he winged Akitsu. That's when Kai remembered something.
"Minato, did you get an email about the university?"
"Huh? About the university? Hold on, let me see," Minato replied. He checked his messages and saw the same email Kai received from Minaka.
"So I don't have to go to university? After I worked so hard too."
"Oh that; it's just a precautionary step. Minaka doesn't want the slightest info about sekirei to be leaked, and going to a crowded place might make that happen," Takehito said walking outside. He noticed Kai and waved at him.
"Good morning Kai."
He didn't say anything and just nodded his head like always. That's when Takehito saw Musubi and Uzume still wrapped in towels. His hair covered his eyes as the air changed around him like Miya. Like his wife, a dark aura surrounded him and a giant hanya mask appeared behind him.
"I thought Miya told you to put some clothes on."
The girls hid behind their respective ashikabi. Minato was scared by the more powerful aura; however, Kai was completely unphased by it. He didn't even bat an eyelash. Musubi and Uzume quickly ran inside to get dressed. After that, Takehito died the aura down, returning the atmosphere back to normal. He looked at the others.
'So Kai isn't affected. That proves there's something about him.' He thought. 'I just have to figure it out.'
"Alright you two, now that you both know about the Sekirei Plan, I get to go into more detail on how this is going to be played."
The three nodded their heads.
"First off, it's still imperative that you keep the plan a secret. Second, you don't have to do this, but I would recommend if you stay here at the inn. That way, you will always have backup."
Minato was happy to hear that, but Kai shook his head, refusing the offer.
"Don't take this the wrong way, but I would more comfortable staying at my place; I know that area like the back of my head and can use that knowledge to my advantage. But I will always be there to help when you need me. Since I won't have to go to university now, I can focus on training again," he explained.
"Training?" Minato questioned. He nodded his head.
"Remember how I told you about those five guys? You think I would take on that many people if I didn't know how to defend myself?" He asked back. Minato thought about it for a minute.
"I guess not, but I wish you would've told me when we first met again. Oh yeah, that reminds me; I have to check on Yukari and see how she's doing," he said and dialed her number.
"Hello?" She asked in a sleepy tone. She yawned loudly.
"Yukari wake up; I need you to get to my location," Minato told her.
"Ahhh, do I have to? I want to sleep a bit more. It's almost time for university to start and I want to sleep while I can," she said. Minato sighed and tried talking his sister into coming. Kai then took the phone from Minato after coming up with an idea he might regret. He cleared his throat and put the next to his ear.
"Yukari," he called out. She immediately recognized the voice.
"Kai, oh hey; I didn't know you were with Minato," she said in her normal tone. Kai gathered his thoughts and went with his plan.
"Yukari, please come here; I really miss you," he stated. He heard Yukari gasp.
"Really Kai?" She asked.
"Yes, my heart is yearning for you; and I can't stand us being separated any longer. Please come see me. Even if it's for a second, I will cherish that second deeply," he declared blushing red at the same time.
"Yes Kai! Quickly, what's your address?" Yukari asked impatiently. Kai told her the inn's address.
"Hurry Yukari, I can't stand the pain of us being apart," he finished. Yukari didn't say anything. Kai heard doors slamming and hung up. He turned towards the others and saw Takehito snickering. Kai walked to Minato.
"You have about three minutes to say whatever you want to say before she shows up."
"Why did you do that?" Minato asked. He took the phone away.
"We both know about Yukari's fetishes, and I knew she would run over if I said that to her. And while I regret toying with her like that, I too want to see if she's doing alright," he answered.
"Kai," Uzume called out. She and Musubi came out of the inn now dressed in their clothes.
"I want to know, how did you reverse the effects on Akitsu here? I thought sekirei with their crest on their forehead couldn't be winged," she said. Kai shrugged his shoulders.
"I honestly don't know," he replied.
"I think I have it figured out," Takehito spoke up. Everyone's attention went to him as he explained.
"Okay, from what I remember about her, Akitsu's adjuster wasn't competent and messed up her adjustments. After that, she was abandoned by her previous ashikabi. Then when she met Kai, she could feel something similar in him that happened to her. She could finally be with someone who understands her. When the winging commenced, her emotions expelled what haunted her and it caused her crest to reappear on her neck. That's my opinion however so I may be wrong."
"Sounds pretty good to me," Uzume said. She walked up to Akitsu and hugged her.
"Welcome to the family Akitsu, let's get along okay?"
"Yes," she said softly. Musubi then bowed to her.
"Nice to meet you Akitsu; I'm Musubi," she introduced. Akitsu bowed back, and then Minato took his turn. He shook her hand.
"My name is Minato; I'm one of Kai's best buddies. I hope we get along as well," he said. She nodded her head and showed a rare and beautiful smile.
"Thank you," she said. That's when everyone saw and huge dust trail coming, letting Kai and Minato that she has arrived.
"What is that?" Uzume asked.
"My younger sister," Minato said rubbing the back of his neck. "Kai toyed with her a little."
Yukari ran to where everyone was and into Kai's arms. He looked behind him and saw Uzume scratching her head wondering who Yukari is and could see Akitsu getting a little jealous.
"Oh Kai, at first I thought I was dreaming, but hearing you say that really made my heart race," she stated.
"Hey Yukari," Musubi greeted waving She saw her and the other sekirei and smiled pervertedly again. When she saw Takehito, she immediately blushed and ran up to him, looking at his details.
"So you're Minato's younger sister," he said. She stood in front of him and bowed.
"Yes, my name is Yukari Sahashi," she replied. Yukari got herself aquanted with everyone in the inn and almost made the worse mistake in her life when she tried to feel Miya, which ended up in her getting a double demon aura from Miya and her husband. Yukari quickly back down and promised never to do it again.
Kai checked the time and saw it was time for him to act.
"Guys, I have somewhere to be; I'll be back in a little while,"
"Then we're coming with you," Uzume stated. Kai shook his head no.
"It's better if you don't because I'm going to MBI," he revealed. Everyone except Yukari and Muusbi gasped.
"Why are you going there?" Minato questioned.
"I have something I need to get. I asked my cousin to hold on to it and I'll come pick it up today. Don't worry though, it's just something to help me in the future," Kai answered, making sure not to reveal any hint of the Sekirei Plan to Yukari. "Akitsu, can you help Uzume move her stuff?"
She nodded.
"As you wish," she replied.
"Hmm, I still don't like it. I'm sure they're not just gonna let anyone walk into MBI," Uzume pointed out. Kai grabbed her hands.
"Don't worry; I'll be fine. I won't be long I swear," he reassured her. Kai kissed her cheek, making Yukari have a nosebleed.
"Alright then; but promise you'll be alright," Uzume responded. Kai smiled and nodded his head. He let go of her hands and walked off in the direction of the MBI building. The others watched him leave, but they didn't see the change in his expression.
'If I'm going to participate in this game, then I'm going to need her. At first I thought they just loved hanging around MBI, but now I get it.' He said in his mind. After a while of walking, Kai finally made it to his destination. He didn't bother taking in the décor and just walked to the receptionist's desk.
"Yes, how can I help you?" She asked. Kai told her about his cousin and called to see if it's okay. He allowed it, and Kai took the elevator up to his floor. When he got off, Kai was in a very large room. It was split into different sections; there was a section for training, lounging, and playing. But Kai wasn't interested in doing either of those. He proceeded to the big double doors at the end of the room, but when he got half way, he saw someone attack.
He moved his head back and caught the person's arm, causing the attacker to laugh.
"Well well well, if it isn't cute little Kai. I glad you came to visit; I could use a good sparring partner," the person said. The attacker was a slender female, whose bandage wrapped form is covered by a dark kimono. She has disheveled gray hair, a studded choker, and narrow eyes, giving her a wicked appearance.
"Nice greeting," Kai said sarcastically. "Is he in Haihane?"
The woman was also a sekirei, but Kai didn't know at first. She is sekirei no. 104, Haihane; she is also known as the Indigo Sekirei.
"Yeah, he's in. Just through the doors," she told him. Kai proceeded to the doors. Coming out, was another woman wearing a black leather top, a miniskirt, and stockings. Over her shoulders was a gray haori with the sekirei crest printed on it. She has long light gray hair tied in a ponytail and gray narrow eyes. She saw Kai approaching and smiled.
No word was spoken, and when they walked passed each other, time slowed down as they glared at one another. The women he was glaring at was sekirei no. 4, Karasuba; she is also known as the Black Sekirei and is the leader of the current Disciplinary Squad. Kai didn't say anything and opened the door, closing it behind him after he walked through. Karasuba stopped walking and watched the door close.
"Hm, things are starting to get interesting," she said aloud.
Behind the door, Kai saw two more people. One was a girl wearing a kimono like shirt with a missing sleeved. She has pink hair with a side ponytail held by two clips. Overall, she looks like a teenager. The other was a young gentleman with brown hair similar to Kai's. He was wearing a formal suit with a white shirt underneath and a black tie. The girl was sekirei no. 105, Benitsubasa; she is also known as the Crimson Sekirei. The gentleman is Natsuo Ichinomi, ashikabi of the three sekirei; and Kai's cousin.
Benitsubasa was sitting on Natsuo's lap.
"Come on please? Just one," she pleaded as she kept her face closer to his.
"Later Benitsubasa," Natsuo told her.
"Awww, but why?" She pouted. Natsuo tapped her nose, making her blush a little.
"Because we're being watched," he told her. She tilted her head and finally saw Kai leaning against the door just keeping quiet. She glared at Kai, who glared right back. Benitsubasa stood on her feet and put her hands on her hips.
"What the hell are you doing here?" She questioned. Kai didn't respond and let Natsuo do the talking.
"He's here to get something," he said. Kai nodded in agreement.
"Then grab it and go," Benitsubasa stated with her arms crossed.
"Benitsubasa, if you would please," Natsuo said. She looked at Natsuo surprised and then glared at Kai. She looked back at Natsuo.
"Fine, I'll go; if you give me what I want," she told them. Natsuo smirked and gave into her demands.
"Alright my little Beni," he replied. She blushed at his words, and Natsuo kissed her on the lips. Upon contact, Benitsubasa's crimson red wings brightened the room. When they separated, she skipped out of the room like a happy school girl. Kai walked up to Natsuo's desk and put his hands on it.
"So, how can I help you cousin? I assume you're here for 'her' as I hear you call it."
Kai nodded yes, making Natsuo sigh.
"This would go smoother if you said something."
"I'm sure you know I'm part of the Sekirei Plan. And that's why I need her. I'm going to need her in the future," Kai said.
"I don't think that's such a good idea," Natsuo warned. Kai narrowed his eyes.
"I can handle it," he reassured. "My emotions got the better of me last time, but I've learned from it."
Natsuo looked into his eyes, for he was the one who taught Kai that ability in the first place. His gazes are more piercing than Kai's so he can see what Kai can't.
"I hope you're sure about this," he told Kai. He nodded his head, making Natsuo sigh again.
"Give me time to find it."
Kai smiled.
"Thanks Natsuo," he expressed gratitude. Kai turned to leave, but saw Karasuba standing in the middle of the room. He stood in front of her as she smiled at him.
"You're going to leave without saying anything to little old me?" She asked. Kai didn't respond.
"So you're not in the mood for games. Okay then, since you're now part of this plan, let me see how well you fare without your sekirei."
"Karasuba," Natsuo called out.
"Will you accept my challenge?" She asked Kai. He didn't stick around and went to the door .
"Hmhmhm, that's why your life have been miserable, because your weak."
Kai immediately stopped at the door. Karasuba looked at him and smiled devilishly.
"If you aren't strong, then your sekirei will pay the price. However, if you care to prove me wrong, then face me."
Kai tightened his fists and turned towards Karasuba with different eyes, causing her smile to widen.
"Do you have another blade?" He asked. Natsuo slammed his hands on his desk.
"Kai, you can't be serious. She's only doing this to tempt you," he stated. They didn't listen. Karasuba drew her blade and tossed it to Kai. He caught it perfectly by the grip.
He studied the sword intensely, but he shook his head. Kai tossed the sword back, and Karasuba let it perfectly slide inside its scabbard. Kai then walked to Natsuo.
"Did you find it?" He asked. Natsuo reached under his desk and pulled a black case.
"Here she is," he said. Kai opened the case and inside, was a long curved sword. Slowly, Kai took it in his hands and unsheathed it. The sword had a beautiful shiny black blade. On it were white lightning symbols. The guard was silver with a little red orb in the middle. The grip was was black like the blade and had a band to put his hand through. Kai smiled after having her in his hands.
He turned sideways and pointed the blade at Karasuba.
"This is the Burakkusutōmu, my blade," he stated. Karasuba walked to and opened the door, and Kai followed her out. Benitsubasa was still happy about the kiss, and Haihane was covering her ears to block out her voice. They saw Kai and Karasuba walk out with their swords and perked up.
"Alright you two; this will only be a five minute fight," Natsuo stated. The two agreed and stood apart from each other. Kai took the sword in his hand and took his stance. Karasuba however, just stood straight without drawing her blade.
Natuso set up the timer and stands back a good enough distance.
"Natsuo, what's going on?" Benitsubasa asked. He sighed.
"Your leader taunted my cousin into accepting her challenge," he stated.
"You're not going to stop them?" Haihane asked. Natsuo scratched his head.
"They're both stubborn so I can't change their minds. Oh well, I just hope Karasuba doesn't hurt him," he replied.
Kai and Karasuba observed one another. The fire in Kai's eyes has changed and their appearance has changed as well.
'Now this feels right, having my blade in my hand once again.' He said in thought.
The timer sounds, and Kai rushes at Karasuba, who just stands in the same spot. Kai does a vertical slash, his blade buzzing through the air; but Karasuba blocks it with her sheathed sword. Kai backs away and then thrust the sword followed with a spinning slash. His opponent effortlessly blocks his attacks and continues to stand in one spot.
Kai moves around, trying to spot her weak point.
"Is that all you got? And here I figured you would put up a decent fight. Well I guess it just goes to show, the weak will always be weak," she taunted. Kai narrows his eyes and tightens his grip on the blade. He lunges forward and leapt in the air like a cat. With swift hands, he swings the blade in figure eights. Karasuba, who just smirks saw the attacks and with skill, blocks every single strike. She then did a backswing as Kai came closer. He held the sword in defense and absorbed the impact, but his defenses were broken for a moment. Taking the chance, Karasuba rushes at him, using a foreswing and then following up with another backswing.
Kai manages to dodge the first strike and blocks the second, but the impact caused his sword to move back but not out of his hands. Karasuba slashes downward while Kai moves back; however, he was too slow and his shirt ripped, causing him to grit his teeth. There was no cut on his torso, but he could feel something about to tear. He brushes it off and attacks once more.
Karasuba dances around him while simultaneously hurling her still sheathed blade. Kai goes for her legs, but she jumps out of the way to avoid the strike. Kai quickly turned to keep her in view. As she walks backwards swinging her blade, Kai continuously unleashes barrage after barrage of attacks. She blocks another one, keeping Kai at bay.
"Now that's more like it," she says. "Show me how strong you really are."
Karasuba pushes Kai back and surprises the spectators by finally unsheathing her sword. She takes it in both hands and rushes at with incredible speed. Kai was still staggering and couldn't see Karasuba in time to dodge. Suddenly, a line of blood shot out of Kai's shoulder. He quickly fell to his knees and held the gash. His eyes were trembling as they expanded in surprise. He slowly turns his head and sees blood trickling down his body.
"Don't tell me you're giving up just because of a little blood. We still have two minutes left," Karasuba told him. Kai looks at his hand and sees the blood covering his hands. He takes a deep breath and tightens his fist. Kai stands back up with his back to Karasuba.
"It's been a while since I've fought such a strong opponent. I see holding back isn't going to do a thing, so let's ramp up the power," he stated and turned back to face his opponent. Karasuba smiles happily after hearing Kai's statement.
"Then let's finish this," she replies. The two rush at each other and attack, their blades clanging together. The sharp metallic sound echoes throughout the room and the metal's impact cause sparks to fly everywhere and touch the ground. Karasuba launches an attack with a swift arch of the blade. Kai tilts his blade accordingly and deflects the attack. They send each other back, and Karasuba goes for an overhead slash. Kai prepares to counter, but he fell for a feint and ended being hit in the stomach with the dull side of the blade. Kai falters a little but manages to keep his balance and focus.
The clock was ticking, with only thirty seconds left. The more it count down the more intense the fight became. On the ten second mark, the spectators started counting down with excitement.
Karasuba jumps out the way as Kai kept up the offensive, his hands circling around the hilt as she skids to the side. The two battled in a haze of fast blows, locked in combat. On the three second mark, both slashed at the exact same time and crossed each other like in a showdown. The buzzer sounded for the match to end. On cue with the buzzer, Kai got cut on the cheek and another gash on his shoulder. Karasuba sheaths her sword and turns towards Kai.
"Not bad; but you still have a lot to learn. I won't be defeated by such a weak opponent," she stated. Kai slowly slides his blade in the sheath. However, on the clink, Karasuba's hair fell to its full length and a few strands fell. She caught the falling pieces and her eyes widen.
"I know plenty," Kai responded. Suddenly, she started laughing out loud. She continues to laugh and look at Kai.
"Now that's the way. Yes!" She exclaimed
"How? No human is a match for Karasuba; how did you match her?" Benitsubasa questioned.
"I didn't match her, she was only using about ten percent of her power. If she wanted to, she could've ended the match from the very beginning," Kai replied.
"That still doesn't answer how you were able to match her," Haihane pointed out. Kai looked at his cousin.
"I went through seven years of intensive training. I didn't just waste my time here in the capital, I made sure I could protect myself. And the person who taught me was none other than my cousin," he revealed. Everyone besides Karasuba gasped. Natsuo just smiled and scratched the back of his head.
"I never knew you of all people could fight," Haihane said. Benitsubasa suddenly hugged her ashikabi.
"I knew you were such a great person; no one is better than my Natsuo," she declared happily.
"Ha-ha, when Kai first asked me too, I was a little skeptical on whether I should do it. But when he told me what happened, my relative instincts kicked in and I just had to help," Natsuo explained.
"Or he just used his charms," Haihane pointed out.
"He knows how to use his appearance to his advantage," he replied. Kai walked up to his cousin.
"Thanks for the blade Natsuo, but I have to head home now," he told him.
"Alright then, but you sure you don't want to be patched up first?" His cousin asked. Kai shook his head and just walked out and into the elevator back to the ground floor.
"Well, at least he's safe; but now I wonder if the same thing will happen to him again like last time."
"What happened last time?" Benitsubasa asked. Headed back to his office.
"Let's just say, that blade of Kai's isn't your average blade."
On the elevator, Kai received a call from Uzume, making him remember how long he's been in there.
"Kai, where are you? Are you okay? Please tell me nothing bad happened to you," she stated worriedly.
"Everything's okay Uzume, I just lost track of time. I did get what I wanted. Right now, I'm in the elevator about to leave," he told her. They continued talking as Kai rode down the elevator and finally exited the building.
Minato
Minato and Musubi are out walking around the city. Right after Kai left, Yukari told Minato that she's finally finished the preparations for a dorm. Before she left though, she got another feel of Musubi's breasts, earning her another smack to the head by her big brother. Uzume and Akitsu did as Kai said and moved her stuff to his house.
Minato could feel Kusano calling out to him, but from where. He was focused on finding her, and Musubi was glad to lend a helping hand. After a while of walking, the two saw a giant botanical garden. There were MBI soldiers and vehicles outside the garden. That's when Minato felt a shocking feeling like a sort of incoming message. It was coming from the garden.
"Musubi, I know where she is. She's deep within the botanical garden," he told her.
"That's right kid," someone stated. The two turned around and saw three people standing, a man and two women. The man was a fairly tall and lean built men with brown hair and a gruff look about him. His attire consisted of a brown jacket, a white undershirt, and a pair of jeans. The two women were tall and slender. Both had long black hair in ponytails and brown hazel eyes. However, one was wearing a violet S&M like suit and the other was wearing a blue S&M suit. The only other difference is that the one in the violet has a much larger bust than the one in the blue.
"You're right about the Green Girl kid," the man said. Minato didn't know who this guy was, but he immediately recognized the women with him. The one in violet also remembered him, and they pointed their fingers at each other.
"You! What the hell!" She exclaimed.
"Hold on, you're one of those lightning girls," Minato stated.
"Huh? You know each other?" The man asked.
"Not exactly, but we had a run in with each other not too long ago," the one in violet said.
"I see," the man said. He wrapped his arms around the girls, groping the violet one's breasts.
"My name is Seo Kaoru; I'm these girls' ashikabi. From left to right, this is Hikari and Hibiki."
Minato and Musubi introduced themselves and watched Hikari get pissed and electrocute Seo.
"Alright kid, how about we go see this Green Girl?"
"Do you mean Kusano?" Minato asked.
"That's the one. Right now, a message has been sent to any ashikabi who might want her. First one to wing her gets her," Seo stated. That was all Minato needed to hear before he and Musubi rushed to the botanical garden. Seo couldn't help but laugh.
"Guess I lit his fire."
The five managed to get in the garden, but they had to blow up the MBI vehicles to do it. Now they're walking through the garden, which looked like one big maze. Minato followed his instincts and led the group through the maze. Minato took off running when he felt something wrong. The others tailed behind him, trying to keep up.
"Hey kid, mind telling me why we're running?" Seo asked.
"I don't know, I just felt like we needed to hurry," he replied. They arrived at a part of the garden that resembled Minato's dream. Minato guided them to where he saw Kusano in his dream; however, when they got there, they saw someone closing in on little Kusano. The person was a girl with long blond hair. She wears black stockings, a black Chinese styled dress with one yellow vertical stripe in the middle of it. In her hand, was a whip.
Minato saw Kusano backing away scared. Without thinking, he rushes to her aid. The girl heard and saw Minato run at him, but he slid under her and grabbed Kusano.
"Hey, who the hell are you?" She questioned. Kusano opened her eyes and found herself in someone's arms. She looked up and saw Minato holding her, making her smile happily.
"Big brother?" She said. Minato looked down at her and smiled.
"I finally found you Ku," he replied. Ku hugged him tightly.
"Hey!" The girl shouted. Minato focused on the girl, only to see a whip flying at him.
"Whoa!" He shouted ducking the attack. The whip retracted, and the girl launched it again. Minato was about to act, but his sekirei came to his aid. Musubi caught the whip, making Minato happy.
"Are you okay Minato?" She asked.
"Yeah, thanks Musubi. Kusano is safe too," he replied.
"Listen up you two, my master wants that sekirei; and I plan to deliver," the girl said. "Taking you out would also be beneficial."
She retracted her whip and stretched it out.
"Sekirei no. 38, Mitsuha; let's do this," Mitsuha declared. Musubi bowed and took her fighting stance.
"Sekirei no. 88, Musubi; I'm a fist type," Musubi stated.
Mitsuha whips her weapon, but Musubi jumps out of the way and rushes at Mitsuha. She throws a swift punch that caused Mitsuha to get out of the way. She quickly retaliates by throwing her whip again. Musubi waits for the right moment and catches the whip. Mitsuha tries to pull it away from her, but Muusbi's strength greatly exceeds her.
'Don't put too much power into your punches, let your power flow.' She remembers from Miya.
Musubi cocks her free fist back, ready to attack. She uses her power and pulls Mitsuha to her. As she comes forward, Musubi throws her punch, gathering more strength from the momentum. Her fist meets Mitsuha's face, sending her back first into a tree. Mitsuha slides down the tree and on her butt. The hard impact caused blood to fall from her mouth and left a big bruise on her cheek. Mitsuha manges to get back and grit her teeth.
"Tch, damn you!" She exclaimed. She wipes the blood from her mouth and glares at Musubi. She stretches out her wipe again, but this time, this yellow energy flowed around it.
"I'm not done yet."
She launches her attack, but misses by a hair. The whip kept going and hit a tree; however, the tree fell and fell towards Minato.
"MINATO!" Musubi cried. She was about to run to his aid, but Mitsuha tied her legs up with the whip, rendering her immobile. She quickly tried removing the whip, but even her strength couldn't break it. Minato couldn't move either and just shielded Kusano. The twins were about to act, but Seo stopped them.
"Hold on, just watch," he told them.
The tree neared its targets, closing in as each second pass.
"It's going to be okay Ku; your big brother will protect you," Minato reassured her. He held her head against his chest to cover her eyes and held her tightly, bracing for impact. Suddenly,
WOOSH, WOOSH, WOOSH! The tree miraculously cut to pieces. Minato noticed the delayed impact and looked to see pieces of the tree on the ground.
"What the; how did this happen?"
He heard someone approaching from behind.
"I still got it," someone said. Minato turned around was shocked to find Kai walking to him with his sword leaning on his shoulder.
"Kai? Was that you?" Minato questioned. He nodded his head and proceeded to Musubi. He unsheathed the blade again.
"Great, another nuisance" Mitsuha stated. Kai didn't pay her no mind and looked at Musubi's prisoner state.
"Are you alright Musubi?" He asked. She smiled after getting a good look at Kai.
"Kai; it's great to see you. Yes, I'm fine; but I'm a little tied up," she told him. Kai held his blade on the gap between Mitsuha and Musubi.
"It's no use, my whip is indestructible. Nothing can break it," Mitsuha said. Kai only smirked and raised the blade. He slashed straight down and like the tree, broke the whip. Mitsuha stumbled back and looked at her weapon in pure shock. She was trembling to get a word out.
"But how? How did you?"
Kai put his sword back in the sheath and untied Musubi.
"Thank you Kai," she expressed gratitude. Kai nodded his head and just left the garden after saying goodbye. As he passed Seo and the twin, Seo received a strange vibe from him; especially from his sword.
"There's something off about that kid," he said.
"He's cute," Hibiki stated. Her sister nodded in agreement, making Seo just sigh.
"He's definitely an ashikabi," Hikari said.
Musubi was finally free and rushed to her ashikabi. Minato and Ku were unharmed, making Muusbi happy.
"It's a good thing Kai showed up when he did," he said.
"You're lucky he showed up!" Mitsuha exclaimed angrily. She raised her whip, causing the yellow energy to resurface. The energy traveled through the whip and reformed the part that Kai sliced.
"I've had enough of you pests. I'll take you down and take number 108 back to my master."
She launches her whip, and Musubi got Minato away from the battle. Mitsuha launches it again and purposely hit the trees to make them fall. With perfect timing and strength, Musubi destroys the trees without using too much power to make more vulnerable. She jumps over Mitsuha after avoiding her attack. She grabs her dress and completely rips it off, showing her bare body.
"EEEEK!" She squealed and dropped to her knees. Musubi then touched her sekirei crest with her finger.
"Fist of my contract! Break the unhappiness of my Ashikabi!" She chanted. Mitsuha's crest reacted to the chant by glowing brightly. The crest started to vanish, Mitsuha fell flat on her stomach after it completely disappeared. Minato them walked to his sekirei and placed his jacket around her, looking away as he noticed her breasts were completely visible.
"Great job Musubi," he complimented. She returned his smile.
"Thanks Minato," she said. They heard helicopters approaching, making Minato nervous.
"Don't worry Minato; they're here for her."
Minato nodded his head and looked at Kusano, who has fallen asleep.
"Come on, let's take her somewhere safe," he said. The three left the garden after noticing that Seo and the twins have left already. Unknown to them, someone was watching from afar. A man dressed in a black coat and a mask over his mouth. His hair was identical to Kagari's.
"Looks like we have another tenant," he said. The mystery man jumped off in the direction of the inn.
Minato and the two sekirei have just arrived and waited for someone to open the door. Miya soon opened it and greeted the two, but she saw Kusano and immediately ran inside. Minato was confused at first. Miya ran back; however, she had her sword with her and pointed it at Minato as her demonic aura appears around her.
"I hope you didn't just kidnap a little kid," she stated. Minato shook his head repeatedly.
"It's not what you think I swear," he replied. Takehito came to see what the problem was and found Kusano on Minato's back.
"Minato; I didn't think you were that type of person," he said summoning his demon aura.
"Wait a minute! I swear I didn't kidnap her. She was being attacked and we rescued her," he explained.
"Is that true Musubi?" Miya asked her. She smiled and nodded.
"Yep, we found her deep in the botanical gardens and rescued her from this girl with a whip," she answered. The landlords forgot to notice that she's wearing Minato's jacket and let it slide. Kusano soon woke up from her slumber.
"Where am I? I'm hungry," she said. Miya put her sword away.
"Oh dear, I better prepare some food then," she said and went to do just that.
Later that night, Musubi was in the bath while Minato sat on the porch looking at the night sky and enjoying the weather.
"Big brother?" Ku said coming up behind him.
"Oh, hey Ku. Is something wrong?" He asked her. Ku sat down next to him. The two talk for a while. Surprisingly, Kusano kissed Minato and made her green wings to manifest and cause flowers to bloom in the yard. Musubi then comes out and smiled at the spectacle.
Now both Minato and Kai have two sekirei; however, each one have another watching closely.
