Disclaimer: I do not own Sekirei.

A/N: Well, the hiatus is pretty much done. This is coming up a bit later than I wanted. I had hit a dry spell in the writing department, but I'm past that. Hopefully, the next chapter will be up sooner.

I honestly don't know what to think of this chapter. Truthfully, I could say that for all the chapters I've wrote so far, but all of you seem to like them so much more than I do. Then again, I am a bit tougher on my own writing. I can say this though, things are picking up. I just finished writing Chapter 15 and I feel like things are picking up. Most of the stuff I've put down is mainly slice of life in the Sekirei-verse, but the episodic chapters will come to an end soon.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy this next installment. Read/review/etc.

The Hopes of Ascension

Chapter Fourteen

The Surprise

I landed onto one of Kuu's plants and felt it gingerly wrap around my body, securing me as it lowered to the ground. My soaked clothes stuck to me as I undid my tie and slid it into my pocket. Pulling off my drenched shirt, I stepped away from the plant. Holding it lazily, I stood in the middle of the total distance between the newest addition to my flock and the rest of my girls. Pushing my hand through my hair, I pushed my wet hair out of my face. It was a futile gesture because some of my bangs fell back down, hanging there with the intent to mock me. Sighing in defeat, I turned to my girls and cleared my throat, "Well, allow me to introdu-" However, I, at the moment, noticed that my girls were not listening to me, but, instead, studying me intensely.

Toyotama had her staff jabbed into the ground and leaning securely against it, her hand rest on her hip as the other was resting her chin. Her eyes seemed to travel over me, no doubt drinking in the sight.

Yomi held her scythe close; her face flushed a bright red. I think it was because she's already seen me that she's able to better visualize… I'm going to stop right there. I'd rather not try to rationalize what's going through the mind of one of my many sexually crazed Sekirei.

Uzume also seemed to be enamored in the sight before her. Placing a hand on her hip, she very clearly looked me up and down, not bothering to hide licking her lips. However when she met my eyes, she froze. A small blush overcame her face as she looked into my eyes. Mouthing something, she placed her free hand on her chin.

Even the ever-naïve Musubi wasn't sparing me the complimentary indignity of being admired by staring. Holding her arms in front of her, she watched me with her adorable doe-eyes. A small blush accented her features, cementing the fact that she had been corrupted by her fellow Sekirei. To think, I actually felt spared from attempts of forcing me to drop my pants around her.

Looking back up to the in progress building, I saw that not even an entire day had passed before Tsukiumi was entranced by my physique. Her arms were crossed under her ample chest as she looked down to me. Standing sideways, she stood tall as the wind blew lightly, making her skirt flip upwards and flash me lightly. She clearly didn't seem to notice because a blush was stamped on her face.

I couldn't help but groan when I noticed Kuu was also staring down at me. I could tell she was a little confused as to why the others were doing it, but she did so nonetheless.

Shaking my head, I walked over to where I had dropped my jacket. Lifting it from the ground, I patted the dirt out and threw it on over my shoulders, pushing my arms through the sleeves. "You know, I never thought I'd ever be the one to say this: but I'd love to go one day without being gawked at if I go shirtless." Shrugging, I released a breath, "Let's get back home, I'm sure that today's over with right now." Looking up to Kuu, I held out my arms and said, "Jump; I'll catch you."

Kuu nodded and closed her eyes, jumping off the ledge of the building. Moving to the side lightly, I felt her fall squarely into my outstretched arms. She opened her eyes to me and grinned, chuckling lightly.

"You look so comfortable right now." I arched an eyebrow at her, trying to hide a sly smile. "You don't want to get down, do you?" I smirked lightly, a corner of my mouth quirking up.

Shaking her head, she snuggled into my shoulder and releasing a breath.

I sighed and noticed that Tsukiumi dropped to the ground. Glaring at Kuu, she said, "Child, stop getting close to my husband."

Sticking out her tongue, Kuu denied Tsukiumi.

Before things could escalate, I cleared my throat. "Enough; stop fighting please. At least wait until we're someplace else." Looking down to Kuu, I said apologetically, "Sorry, Kuu, but I got to put you down. I can't exactly carry you like this all the way back to Maison Izumo." Upon seeing her pout, I panicked lightly, "We can do it at a later time, just right now." When I placed her back on her feet, I looked back to my newest Sekirei, who was clearly trying to hide a smile. "What's so funny?"

"You stand up to a Sekirei trying to kill you, but you buckle the moment a child pouts." A small smile appeared on her face. I don't know what she was thinking, but it managed to bring forth a small grin of my own.

However, before either one of us could anymore, Toyotama strode up to us and said, "That's our Takeshi-kun. He's willing to stand against a Sekirei to help us, but when it comes to one of us, he buckles faster than it takes one of us to say our norito." She clicked her tongue in mock disappointment. "I'd expect better from the person who survived training with the black Sekirei."

I grimaced at the comment, but before I could say anything, I heard a surprised cough from Tsukiumi. Looking over to her, I saw that she was red in the face, her eyes wide in shock. "You did what?!"

I sucked in a breath. "This is going to be a long conversation. Do you mind if we wait until we get back home? I'd like to change into something aside from these suffocating shoes, put on some dry pants and actually put on a shirt."

Pulling on a dry shirt, I sighed in relief from the short bath I just took. I ruffled my hair lightly, trying to shake the remainder of the water free from my hair. Flattening it down, I walked out of my room. As I headed towards the stairs, I watched as Matsu pushed the door open and step into the hallway. "Hey, Matsu, how has your day been?"

"Matsu's day has been good, but it got better when you winged Tsukiumi! I can't believe you actually managed to win over a Sekirei notorious for hating Ashikabi." Matsu rushed over to me, taking my hand.

I scoffed, "You doubted me? I'm insulted." Grinning to let her know I was joking, I followed up with a shrug. "I honestly don't know what happened; I was just my normal self." Rubbing my chin thought, I bit my lip lightly. "That might be one of the reasons why she initially tried to kill me."

Matsu giggled lightly, "Take-tan has had his moments."

I pointed to her with a smile, "Ah, there you go. Accept that I'm not Mister Perfect and we'll all be great. My already impressive ego needs to be taken down a few notches."

She pouted at me, "Take-tan, you may not be Mister Perfect, but you're our Mister Perfect." Matsu leaned into me, wrapping her arms around my arm and pressing her impressive chest against it.

I squirmed lightly, not exactly trying to escape her pleasant grasp. "See, it's things like that make my innocent self-deprecation into a moot point."

Matsu scrunched her eyebrows, "Do you not want to be our Mister Perf-"

I interrupted her with a sudden kiss, pulling her against me. In an instant, she melted against me, molding her every curve into my body. Moving our lips slowly in sync, I massaged her scalp gently with my fingers. She moaned lightly into the kiss as I gingerly broke the kiss. Looking into her eyes, I whispered, "Never say that again. Of course I want to be your 'Mister Perfect'. It's just that I don't want to hype myself up, only to be smacked down by my own stupidity."

"What do you mean?" She asked me, nowhere near moving from her position. .

I smirked, "What do you think? I was trained by Black Sekirei and survived. I could quite possibly be one of the most dangerous humans in the country, maybe even the hemisphere." I paused, groaning at what I just said, "But that's what I mean. I can't act like that. But it's difficult. I was practically raised by Karasuba when my mother wasn't around. I'm just…afraid I'll turn into something like the Black Sekirei. I like to fight, but I'm not obsessed with it."

Seeing the distress that I tried to hide, Matsu placed a hand on my cheek and smiled. "All of us, we know you won't turn into that. The others will fight in your place and Matsu will help you with electronic warfare and information gathering. You don't need to worry because all of us will be there for you."

I simply looked at her, completely caught off guard. Before I had met these girls, I would've questioned the conviction of anyone who said that. However, now, I felt completely secure. I knew she meant it, and would perfectly go along with what they said. "Thank you." I whispered and pulled her into another embrace. Squeezing as tight as I could, I made sure that she was able to feel the feeling that was surging inside of me.

After a few moments, I broke the embrace and released a breath. Grinning down to my hacker Sekirei, I said, "How is it you always know what to say?"

Matsu shrugged, a small flush present on her cheeks. "Matsu just says what she feels." Stepping up to me, she wrapped her arms around my neck. "Now that we've had a moment, are you going to ravish me with the thought that we've made another connection?"

I rolled my eyes and grinned, "Just like that, the moments over." Leaning down, I gave her a light peck on the lips. "Speaking of gathering information, were you able to find anything on Kaede?"

Matsu slowly broke away from me and began to walk downstairs. I followed her closely as she told me what she found. "No, Matsu couldn't find anything on her. It wasn't for lack of trying either, Matsu searched everywhere that she could and managed to get into places she couldn't before, but there was literally nothing on her." She paused, crossing her arms and pouting like a defeated child. "It's almost as if there's no information on her at all."

I crossed my arms and thought about that little tidbit. "No information? That's…a bit extreme, don't you think? I mean, Minaka loves control and having no information on an important player in his game is pretty much the same as having someone run free." I rubbed my chin and sighed heavily. When we reached the bottom of the steps, I turned towards the dining room. Sliding the door open, I strode in to see everyone sitting around the table.

"Well, bro, it seems like you winged a stubborn one." Uzume looked up to me from her seat as I walked into the dining room.

Standing at the head of the table, Tsukiumi began to speak, "I believe it's time for my husband to explain a few things to me. As his only, true wife, I believe it is important for me to know what my husband has done."

Clearing my throat, I was about to start speaking, when Musubi spoke up. "Hey, I'm Takeshi-san's wife too!" She jumped up and glared cutely at Tsukiumi.

Scoffing, Tsukiumi simply waved her hand. "There can be only one true wife. The rest of you are simply concubines. I am the true wife."

Musubi placed a hand on her chin in thought and said, "I don't know what that is, but I'm Takeshi-san's wife too!"

I groaned as I watched the argument between the two. Musubi and Tsukiumi went back and forth while Kuu paused in thought at Tsukiumi's words. Smiling widely, my littlest Sekirei raced around the table and latched onto my leg, sticking her tongue at the Water Sekirei.

Matsu giggled into her hands. "It's a soap opera! A soap opera!"

Toyotama simply watched the argument, an amused expression on her face. Uzume was trying in vain to hold back a wide grin.

Yomi, on the other hand, was smiling smugly. It was a look that I recognized immediately. Seeing me eye her suspiciously, she winked and grinned. I sincerely hoped she wouldn't say anything that would get me the ire of my newest Sekirei.

Clearing my throat, I caught the attention of the bickering Sekirei. "Okay, let me set one thing straight, no one here is the 'head wife'. All of you stand equally in my eyes. Understand?" I gave Tsukiumi a level look, meeting her blue eyes. When she nodded, I motioned for Matsu to take a seat. "Alright, Tsukiumi, you wanted an explanation about what Toyotama said earlier, me being trained by the Black Sekirei, correct?" She nodded, a small flush taking over cheeks. "Well, it's true. I was trained by Number 04 Karasuba herself for ten years of my life. Thanks to the draconian training she put me through; I'm exceptionally skilled in both hand-to-hand and with the sword."

Before Tsukiumi could respond, I heard a slight purring noise. "Wow, bro, I love it when you take charge. Don't hesitate to be forceful, I love it when you show who the man is." Uzume grinned sensually, her eyes narrowed lightly.

I grinned as I met her eyes, "Well, you've seen nothing yet. I'm on a roll, so just sit back and watch." Walking around the table, I stood on the veranda and happened to see a giant gash in the ground. At the first glance, I paid it no mind, but it immediately caught my attention. Stepping off the veranda, I strode over the miniature crevice and peered into it. "Who in the hell fucked up the yard?" I flinched at my sudden curse and turned towards everyone, "Don't repeat what I just said unless you're at least 5'5" and sixteen years old, even then, don't say it in front of Asama-san."

I heard my staff Sekirei snort lightly, as she looked over Kuu. The little Sekirei perked up at my language, but pouted at my set prerequisites.

Uzume smirked and looked slyly over to Yomi.

Yomi lifted a hand sheepishly and said, "That was me, Takeshi-sama."

Jumping up, Musubi raced over to me and looked down the mini crevice. "You should've seen it, Takeshi-san! Yomi and I were sparring when she suddenly used one of her scythe air slashes. It cut into the ground and went really deep!"

I blinked a few times and pulled out my phone. Flipping it open, I reached into the crevice and looked around with my phone as a light. "This is a very deep hole. Yomi, were you always able to do this? This thing is deeper than I am tall." Through my periphery, I noticed Kuu sneaking to my side, no doubt to peak into the lit abyss that is the new Maison Izumo Chibi-Crevice. I extended an arm and held her back with my hand to stop her from getting too close.

Squirming from my question, Yomi rubbed her hands together under the table. "Well, not to that extent. Before, we would just fill it back up with Kuu's plant power, but I've never been able to make it that deep."

"When were you able to use that much power without a Norito?" Uzume asked her, sounding curious.

Blushing heavily, Yomi held a hand in front of her chest. "After I was able to walk again, I woke up before everyone else like I normally do. After helping Miya with breakfast, we went outside for our regular spar, right before Musubi normally joins." She paused and began playing with her hair, "However, it went a little differently. I managed to surprise Miya and Musubi with my speed and made them go on the defensive. After a little while, she told me to use one of my scythe distortions. When I did, I think I surprised her enough to warrant her to dodge it. That's when it made a similar mark in the ground."

I paused, trying to process what she just said. I don't know why, but there were clearly some dots that needed to be connected; an effect that had to be placed with the correct cause. The one thing that caught my attention was that she said she surprised Miya of all people. I had sparred with her personally, so I had firsthand experience with what she could bring to the table. For Yomi to surprise Miya there had to be a major jump in ability or skill. If that were the case, then what was the cause for such a major jump in ability/skill? I don't recall Yomi ever gorging on rare candies, carbos, or protein.

"Wait, what do you mean 'after you were able to walk again'?" Tsukiumi asked; confusion present in her tone of voice.

Yomi flushed heavily; looking down, causing her bangs to conceal her face, she pushed her pointed fingers together. "Um, well, you see-"

"Wait!" I called out before Yomi could continue the conversation that would lead to an attack against my person. If Tsukiumi reacted as harshly as she did when I told her that she was my seventh Sekirei, then I was absolutely terrified of what she'd do when she found out that Yomi and I had been the first group to consummate our relationship. Clearing my throat, I rubbed my chin lightly. "I need to do something before you continue, Yomi." Looking over to the others on the table, I said, "Uzume, Toyotama and Matsu, could the three of you come over here please?"

Toyotama had quite an amused expression on her face as she stood from her seat and walked over to me.

Uzume arched an eyebrow at me before approaching me.

Matsu pushed herself up off of the table and approached me, her hands hidden in her sleeves. "Yes, Take-tan?"

"Alrighty, I need to go along with what I'm doing. Got it?" They nodded, each looking both perplexed and amused at the same time. Taking Toyotama by the hand, I lead her to stand in front of me, turning her to face the inn. Ushering Uzume to stand next to Toyotama, I then moved Matsu on Toyotama's opposite side. Gesturing Musubi over to me, I shuffled her next to Uzume and looked at my handiwork, not exactly hiding the fact that I was checking out my Sekirei. Rubbing my chin, I noticed a gap between the shapely legs of Toyotama right and Uzume's left. Gesturing Kuu to walk over to me, I lifted her and placed her in front of me, blocking that opening. Grinning at my makeshift Sekirei barricade, I looked over Uzume's head and called out, "Yomi, you can continue your explanation." After that, I leaned in between Uzume and Toyotama and said, "Okay, as soon as Yomi's finished speaking, I want the five of you to stay here and wait for me to book it around the corner of the inn. Don't move until then, okay?"

My cloth Sekirei arched her eyebrow, "Um, okay, but why?"

"Just do it!" I whispered to her urgently.

Smiling widely at my antics, I watched as Yomi continued her story, then spared a glance towards Tsukiumi. She, on the other hand, was watching me with unhidden interest, clearly wondering whether or not her Ashikabi was crazy…. Well, I don't know about that specifically, but I'd probably be thinking that if I were in her position.

Yomi cleared her throat. "As I was saying, I wasn't able to walk for a few hours because, well, Takeshi-sama and I…" She giggled and blushed, covering reddened face. For a moment, I wondered if I was free.

However, I clearly thought too soon. Putting two and two together, Tsukiumi froze in realization. I think it was the combination of being told that Yomi was 'unable to walk' and blushing so widely that made it so clear to her. Standing suddenly, she turned towards me, and in turn my Sekirei barricade, and pointed angrily. "You-you-you did this and that with-with-with…"

I peeked over Uzume's shoulder and said, "Well, it was a joint effort. Yomi wanted to roll in the hay too. I couldn't exactly say 'no'."

Tsukiumi shook with what I assume to be anger and said, "You-you-you-"

"'Lustful beast'? 'Shameless Human'? 'Sex-crazed Maniac?'" I supplied helpfully, using a name that Miya clearly took pleasure in giving me, while supplying some my own creations.

She continued to shake, but instead of replying, she extended finger. I could clearly see water gathering at the point of her finger. "Water-"

"That's my cue. Takeshi: Exit Stage Right." I took off sprinting towards the end of Maison Izumo, hoping to reach the corner before she struck.

"Celebration!" A jet of water flew towards me and swiped at my feet. Feeling said feet get taken out from under me; I threw my hands forward and planted them onto the ground. I then pushed forward, flipping forward through the air. Landing back securely on my feet, I resumed my run. However, I was clearly beaten in speed because Tsukiumi was instantly in front of me. Another jet of water struck me in the chest and while nowhere near as powerful, it still caught me by surprise, making me fall onto my back.

I groaned as I lied there on the ground. Feeling a weight on my waist, I looked down to see Tsukiumi taking a seat. Looking down to me with a slight blush, she crossed her arms and spoke. "Before y-you winged m-me, I can underst-stand that you needed an 'outlet'. H-However, now that you h-have me, you don't n-need to worry."

I narrowed my eyes, trying to stifle a smile. I had a vague idea of how she'd react if I smirked outright. "Are you saying what I think you're saying?"

"Don't make me repeat myself!" She snapped at me, leaning down to emphasizing the point.

I lifted my hands in an attempt to pacify her. "Fine! Fine, I got it." However, as she leaned close to me, I couldn't help but take in her appearance: the blush on her face, the heavy look in her eyes and how her hair seemed to frame her face so beautifully. Moving one of my hands upwards, I gingerly placed it on the back of her neck, eliciting a slight flinch. Lifting my hand, I lifted my head ever so slightly to reach her face. Staring into her eyes, I leaned closer and felt my lip quiver as I couldn't help but have my eyes be drawn to her lips. Leaning closer, I gently pulled her closer as I moved in to kiss.

The sound of someone clearing her throat stopped me in an instant. As A froze, I felt my eyes moving to the source: my landlady. "My, Hitomi-kun, aren't you being quite energetic today."

I smiled lightly, already feeling the cold dread of her mask burning into my psyche.

Sitting at the table, I tried to help Miya configure the newest sleeping arrangements. The rooms were already comfortably filled, so we were having trouble deciding which room to have her sleep.

"Humph, I shall simply sleep with my husband. It is a wife's duty to share a bed with her husband after all." Tsukiumi jumped up and crossed her arms, smirking lightly.

Musubi and Yomi leapt up at the exact same time and spoke in perfect unison. "I'm his wife too!" The two of them looked at each other and smiled lightly.

"Now, now, now, we can't have anything sexually illicit happen under my roof. You were not here, Tsukiumi, when Hitomi-kun finally gave into his lustful desires." Miya covered her mouth and sighed heavily. "I knew that day would be coming. When it finally did, he abducted poor Yomi and spirited her away to a hotel, ravishing the poor girl."

"Oy!" I cried out, my face flushed lightly. "You can't just spout someone else's business!" Releasing a breath, I continued, "How about this plan? The sleep situation will be put on hold for a little while. Let Tsukiumi sleep in my room for a short while. It's only fair, considering everyone else has had the chance." When I saw her about to protest, I cut her off gently, "You don't have to worry, Asama-san. I won't break your rule." I smirked, catching her eye.

At that, the strangest thing happened: Miya actually blushed lightly, but she pushed it down quickly. "Okay, you have a point, Hitomi-kun. I'll allow it. But only for three days, then we will resolve this. Am I clear?"

"Crystal." I grinned. At that, I theatrically glanced over my shoulder and gestured towards the backyard. "One other thing, about that gash in the ground; I hear Yomi did that."

Miya smiled, pride evident in her expression. "Well, you see Yomi and I were doing our daily training session, when she lost herself a bit." She gave said Sekirei a pointed look. I glanced over to see Yomi blushing lightly. "She swung that scythe of hers and I hate to say it, but I wasn't fully prepared. The next thing I know, there was a giant gash in my yard. I trust it will be fixed soon?"

I nodded, giving her a thumbs up, "Don't worry, I'll get it fixed, but let me take a picture. The evidence of Yomi's new level of awesome must be documented for posterity." Lifting Kuu from my lap, I stood and walked over to the massive gash in the ground. Pulling out my phone, I flipped it open and turned on the camera. Taking a picture with a flash, I pushed the phone closed and turned towards Kuu. Crouching down, I asked my smallest Sekirei, "Can you close that up for your onii-chan?"

She nodded and beamed up to me, walking over to the gash.

As soon as Kuu began to use her power, my phone suddenly went off. I looked to my Sekirei and noticed a collective arched eyebrow, even coming from Miya. "I'll get that…" Pulling my phone back out, I flipped it open and checked the caller ID. "Yukari?" I muttered lightly. I pushed the answer button and held the phone to my ear. "Yeah?"

"Um, onii-chan, I have a problem…" She trailed off lightly.

That caught my attention. In an instant, my notoriously overactive big brother instinct went into overdrive. "A problem? What kind of problem?"

"Now, onii-chan, I know what you must be thinking. But, it's not that ba-"

"Yukari." I cut her off. "If it wasn't that bad, you wouldn't have called me of all people. You, of all people, know how protective I am. Now, what kind of problem do you have?" I knew Yukari realized what I was saying. That was essentially me-speak for 'who am I going to have hurt?'

"Um, you see, I kinda met someone on the way home…and he started talking about really strange things… Like 'reacting' and 'Sekirei'. It's not that I'm scared, it's just that it's strange."

I groaned, shaking my head. Grinding my foot in the dirt, I pulled the phone away from my face and let out a frustrated growl. That act in and of itself garnered some confused and concerned looks from my Sekirei and Miya. "What's their number?"

"You want me to ask him for his number? I haven't seen him hold a cell phone."

I shook my head, "No, not his phone number. His Number. Trust me; he'll know what you mean."

I waited and listened as Yukari relayed the question. I managed to hear a boyish voice reply. My imouto cleared her throat and said, "He's Number 107, Shiina, is what he told me. Why?"

Rubbing my chin, I couldn't help but feel like I was missing something. I growled in the back of my throat, trying to remember what was nagging at the back of my mind. "Give me a second, Yukari. I need to bounce something off the peanut gallery." Moving the phone speaker to my shoulder, I inquired my Sekirei plus Miya. "Do any of you know of a Number 107 Shiina?"

Before any of them react, Kuu slammed into my leg and sucked in a breath. "You found Shi-chan, onii-chan? Where is he?"

I slammed my palm into my forehead. "That what I was forgetting! Kuu was the one who was connected to Shiina."

"What do you mean, Takeshi?" Uzume asked me, clearly curious.

"My imouto, she's probably going to be involved with the Plan." Grinding my teeth, I flexed my hand repeatedly, feeling my nails dig into my palm. Putting the phone back to my face, I said, "We need to meet, Yukari. There are a few things I'm going to need to talk with you about. Can you come here or do you want me to meet you there? It'll have to be someplace private."

"Onii-chan! I don't know what the big city has done to you, but your imouto isn't ready for such a change in our relationship!"

I bit back a curse, "Yukari, this is serious. So I'll need to get a serious answer." That's when it hit me, Yukari was with an Unwinged, hopefully, Sekirei and there are Ashikabi who try to force themselves on said Unwinged Sekirei. "When you met Shiina, were you followed?"

"How did you know?!" Yukari cried out into my phone, causing me to pull it away suddenly.

I blinked slowly, gently grinding a thumb in my ear. "Ow, that hurt." Nodding my head lightly, I sighed and put the phone back to me ear. "Who followed you? Can you describe one of them for me?"

"Well, it's actually pretty easy to remember what they wore. It looked like one of them was a S&M fetishist; her kimono was way too small for her, barely held together by some chains. The other one, the one that threw around whips, wore a black and yellow one piece."

"Okay, I know who they are. I need you to stay in your dorm. I'll stop by tomorrow and bring you anything you may need. Call me tomorrow as soon as you wake up; do not kiss him under any circumstances, do you understand me? I want to make sure you know what you're getting into, okay?"

"K-kiss him?! Why would I kiss someone I just met?!"

You have no idea… "Please, do as I ask. It's extremely important."

Yukari was silent for a moment, hopefully taking in my words. "…Okay, onii-chan. I'll call you tomorrow, 'kay?"

"Yeah, of course." At that, she hung up the phone. I closed my phone and sighed, pinching the bridge of my nose between two fingers.

"Takeshi-sama, what happened?" Yomi inquired of me after a few moments.

Opening an eye, I slid my phone into my pocket. "My imouto ran into a Sekirei that reacted to her. Luckily, she called me before doing anything that could get her in too much danger."

"'Too much danger'? What did your imouto do, Hitomi-kun?" Miya asked me, concern evident in her voice.

"She apparently ran into an Unwinged Sekirei that was being chased by two of Mikogami's Sekirei. Currently, they seem to be staking out near her dorms." I sucked in a breath and grinned lightly. "I hope you know it's taking all of my self-control not to raise a little hell."

"All you need to do is ask." Uzume said, crossing her arms under her ample chest. "I'd rather not have a repeat of what happened when you raced off to get Kuu."

I shook my head. "I know, but I can't keep rushing off to save everyone." My grin widened lightly. "My sister's only a year younger than me and she's quite possibly a better student than me. She's more responsible, just a little eccentric. I'm just the lazy genius, she's the hard worker. In spite of that, I'm the older sibling, the brother. She'll stay in her dorm, but if that brat does anything to her, then we're going to war." I looked to Miya and crossed my arms, "I hope that doesn't put you off, Asama-san."

My landlady simply watched me, her eyes probing mine for something more. After a moment, she sighed. "As long as you keep it out of my inn, I don't mind if you defend your family. Just try not to get yourself and the others hurt." Pushing herself to her feet, she turned and began walking away. Looking over her shoulder, she said, "I'll be going to bed. Be sure to send Kuu to my room when she's ready to go to bed." She then left the dining room.

"Onii-chan, is it true? Do you know where Shi-chan is?" Kuu looked up to me with wide, watery eyes.

I smiled and crouched down to look her directly in the eye. "Yeah, he's in a safe place right now. My imouto is keeping an eye on him. He'll be safe until we get there tomorrow, then you can see him. Okay?"

Kuu nodded and wrapped her arms around my neck. "I love you, onii-chan!"

I rubbed her back gently and returned the embrace. "It's late; what do you say we all go to bed?"

Standing in my room, clad in nothing but a pair of shorts, I looked around my room one last time. For once, when one of my Sekirei slept in my room, there was another futon to allow her to sleep in, instead of squeezing onto mine. Looking to Tsukiumi, I couldn't help but take in her sleepwear; a light blue nightgown that seemed to emphasize her eyes. She sat on her futon, blushing as she looked up to me. "Do you normally wear so little when you sleep?"

I arched an eyebrow at her, slightly surprised by her new coy attitude. "Yeah; I run hot whenever I sleep so I go like this. I never sleep nude, though; it's really awkward when I wake up." I paused, thinking for a moment. "Actually, it's a really good thing I don't because then things would get really awkward and Asama-san would've probably kicked me out."

Tsukiumi blushed heavily at my words. "You run…hot?" She lifted her hand in front of her face and I couldn't help but notice her giving me a measured look.

I couldn't but grin as I walked over to my futon. Reaching to my lamp, I flipped it off and plopped right down. Lying back, I sighed heavily and placed a hand on my bare stomach and looked over to my Sekirei. "Are you going to lie down, or do you need me to tuck you in?" I couldn't help but grin at her flustered reaction as she lifted her blanket and slid under them. "I have to warn you, I'm notorious for being really clingy when I'm asleep. The others are known for taking advantage of it."

Tsukiumi paused, but said, "Okay, Takeshi." After a few moments of silence, she spoke up, "When you…chose to consummate your relationship with Yomi, what…made you choose her first? Isn't the one with the staff, Toyotama, your first Sekirei?"

I smiled lightly, "While I knew I would have to become more physically intimate with each of you at one point, the real issue was deciding on who should be first, second, third and so on. That in and of itself was a difficult decision to make, but I knew I'd have to make it soon." Releasing a sudden breath, I shook my head with a smile. "I won't do anything illicit under Asama-san's roof, because she allows all of us stay here. I've brought in so many Sekirei; any sane landlord would've kicked me out by now. However, she's put up with all of our insanity. Most of all mine."

A small laugh escaped my bedmate. "Your 'insanity'?"

I grinned, "You haven't known me long enough to notice, but you'll soon see that I can be a little headstrong." Pausing, I considered my wording, "Well, 'headstrong' can be a misnomer. I'm crazy. Mainly, whenever someone's in danger, I have a habit of rushing out to help, without any thought to my own health."

Tsukiumi sat up instantly, glaring down at me. "I trust you'll not do that now that I'm your wife?"

I met her glare with a small smile, "I'm learning, I assure you." Reaching forward, I gently placed a hand on her arm. "Do you remember the business at the Arboretum a while back?" When she nodded, I couldn't help but grin, already seeing her reaction. "Well, when I got the message that Kuu was a 'prize' for the first Ashikabi to arrive, I snapped."

Looking down to my hand, I noticed her leaning slightly into it. "I assume so, seeing as how attached she is to you. It's only natural to feel like you have to do something."

"No, you're not getting it. I reacted to Kuu the same way I did with Uzume…with you." That caused a blush to overtake her face as she looked away from me embarrassedly. "Well, when I got the message, I ran to the Arboretum like a bat out of hell; also scared the hell out of the others, too. When I made it to Kuu, I ran into a pair of Sekirei. Luckily, I also had someone else at my back. Then I did the most inconceivably stupid thing that I quite possibly have ever done."

"What…what was it?" Tsukiumi asked me, her voice soft.

"I fought her." That warranted a look of shock and anger from her. "It went back and forth for a while, but I managed to get her a few times. I actually broke her nose, I think. Well, whatever celebration I did afterwards was cut off, because the Sekirei had me in a bind."

Tsukiumi fumed, "The nerve of that Sekirei…of you, for doing something so stupid. If I ever run into her, I'll show her what happens when you hurt my Ashikabi."

I grinned, "You're a little late, Tsukiumi. Yomi leapt in and saved my life. Freeing me from her hold, she let me kiss her for a norito and promptly terminated her." I sighed and sheepishly scratched the back of my head, "During the fight, though, I said things in the heat of the moment. Things I'm not particularly proud of."

"What did you say, Takeshi?" Tsukiumi inquired, her voice sharp.

I sucked in a breath. "Things you don't say around your significant other…others." Pausing, I closed my eyes and let my hand fall from Tsukiumi's arm, allowing it gingerly touch upon her hand. Sighing lightly, I said, "That answers your question, doesn't it?"

"What?"

"You asked why I chose Yomi to be my first amongst my flock. She saved my life, though I'm sure she wouldn't think anything different of it. It killed two birds in one stone; she saved me and terminated a Sekirei."

Tsukiumi was silent for a moment. I heard her lie back down, her hand slowly sliding under mine. "That's rather cold, don't you think?"

"I'm sorry. I've lived with callous or blunt individuals my entire life. My mother loves my sister and me, but she doesn't sugarcoat anything. My grandmother didn't hold anything back when I messed up in school, or when I learned manners. Yukari speaks her mind; I swear the instant something pops into that head of hers, she says or does it. Karasuba is… well, everyone knows of the Black Sekirei." I paused, thinking for a moment. "The only person I was close to that was rather idealistic and nice was Yume, but she died when I was young." I released a breath and licked my lips. "What I'm trying to say that the main reason I can be cold, callous, or rather blunt is because it was a part of my childhood. It's become a part of how I grew up. I don't particularly like it, so I'm trying to change for your sakes."

At that, I felt myself slowly delve into unconsciousness, not before I felt a certain someone grab onto my arm and rest her head on my chest.

The next day, I woke up earlier than I wanted; no doubt due to the apprehension I had for Yukari. However, as I awoke, I found myself in a position that I knew would happen. I was lying on my side, blanket thrown to the side, with Tsukiumi flushed against me. I couldn't help but crane my neck and see why arms were, because I really felt the need to go. They were firmly wrapped around her body, under her breasts. Her own arms were holding tightly onto them.

I grimaced and held back a whimper. I really wanted to stay like this, but a certain morning occurrence would make things extremely awkward. Releasing the hold of one of my arms, I gently slid it out from under her and slowly, reluctantly slid away from my very enticing, very vulnerable Sekirei. Grabbing a blanket, I slid it over her and slowly walked out of my room, grabbing a shirt as I did so.

Walking towards the bathroom, I walked inside. After finishing, I washed my hands and walked out of the bathroom. Pulling my shirt on, I headed downstairs and into the dining room.

"Hitomi-kun? My, you're up early?"

I turned around and noticed Miya walking out of the kitchen. I scratched the back of my head and chuckled lightly. "I woke earlier because I'm a little worried about my imouto."

Miya smiled, "Your imouto sure is lucky to have an onii-chan who's willing to go so far to help her."

I shrugged, unable to hide a blush. "She's family. Growing up, we were basically all we had. I mean, sure I trained with Karasuba and Yume, but that was so I could better protect Yukari." I snorted, shaking my head. "However, it ended up with her being able to fight for herself." I grinned and said, "Did you think that stopped me?"

Miya laughed lightly behind her lifted hand. "I don't believe so."

"Yeah, everything normally ended up in a competition." I rubbed the back of my head as I couldn't help but look back. Releasing a breath, I shook my head, "Anyway, is there anything you need help with?"

Shaking her head, she said, "No, I'm afraid everything is being taken care of already. Musubi and Yomi are so lively in the morning, that I can't help but give them something to do. We're going to start breakfast after our morning training session, if you want oversee it."

I smiled lightly, "You know, I'd love to see how my girls are coming along. Lead the way, Asama-san." She led me towards the veranda and as I made my way there, I saw someone leap through the air, followed by a whooshing sound. Walking quickly onto the veranda, I saw Yomi land firmly on the ground and plant her feet. Clad in nothing but one of my button-up shirts and a pair of boxers, she spun her scythe effortless in one hand and grabbed it suddenly, holding it along the length of her outstretched arm, outstretched behind her.

Yomi extended a hand and bended her forefinger and middle finger lightly. "Come at me, Musubi. It's your turn to charge me. Try and hit me!" She leapt back just in time to see Musubi strike the ground where she once stood.

Clad in Yukari's old gym uniform, bloomers and all, Musubi rocketed towards Yomi and tried to hit her as quickly as she could. The two of them seemed in near-perfect sync as the moved across the yard, resembling something like a dance. I watched in wonder as Yomi led the two of them from one end of the yard to the other, spinning her scythe every so often and using the shaft to knock a punch away. Trying to surprise her, Musubi attempted a kick that seemed quite familiar to me, but was thwarted by Yomi using the shaft of her scythe and taking out her partners other foot.

When Musubi fell to the ground, Yomi spun and pointed the blade at her partner, but she was already back on her feet. The two of them continued to go back and forth, going farther and farther in an attempt to win the spar.

"She really has come far, don't you think?" Miya asked me.

"Yeah, but I'm curious. What causes such a jump in ability?" I was baffled by how much Yomi improved. Before, she could hardly keep up with Musubi, slashing as fast as she could, but still unable to actually do anything to hold her off.

"Sekirei are…different from humans in many ways, Hitomi-kun. While training will simply elevate their skills, honing them to the best they could be; solidifying your bonds with your Sekirei and inciting their emotions will cause their power to skyrocket." She eyed me, a smile playing at her lips. "I guess when you finally shared that moment with Yomi; it must've awakened something inside of her." Miya lifted a hand and placed it over her mouth, looking away from me, though she was watching me through her periphery. "Who knew your lustful urges would actually come in handy?"

I smirked lightly as I leaned back in my seat. "That's…some handy knowledge you have their, Asama-san. I wonder where you got it." I eyed her lightly, a small smile playing at my lips.

Miya narrowed her eyes, "Hitomi-kun, are you implying something?" She herself was implying something… Something dangerous.

I lifted my hands, pleading for innocence. "I'm just wondering how you know so much, is all. Can't a guy be curious without having to fear for his life?"

Smiling at my reaction, Miya looked out towards the spar. "It's called experience. I've lived through so much, so it makes sense for me to know quite a bit."

"That makes sense." I looked towards my girls, letting the subject sit. Miya didn't want to breach that topic, so I decided to let it go. See, I can show a little common sense sometimes, too. As I watched the two of them, I heard a little pitter patter heading towards us. I looked over to the side to see Kuu walking towards the veranda, wiping the sleep out of her eyes. Lifting a hand, I beckoned her over to me. "Hi, Kuu. Good morning."

Upon seeing me, she raced over to me and leapt onto me, wrapping her arms around my neck. "Onii-chan, you're awake! Are we really going to see Shi-chan today?!"

I couldn't help but chuckled at her enthusiasm. It's strange, seeing her excited over seeing someone other than me. It almost made me feel a little jealous. "Well, if what Yukari said is true, then yeah, we will."

"Is Kuu coming with you?" She looked to me pleadingly, giving me a very pitiful look.

In return, I gave her a completely deadpan look. "Now, why would I tell you about Shiina and not take you? Of course, I'm going to take you. I have a heart, you know."

"And it's entirely too big for your own good." I heard Miya say offhandedly. I looked over to her with a look of mock pain and shock. She simply held her hand in front of her mouth and blinked in surprise. "Did I say that out loud? I'm terribly sorry." I could plainly see the smile she failed at concealing.

Rolling my eyes, I went back to watching the spar. However, it was at its tail end. Yomi and Musubi leapt back and looked to each one last time before the both of them relaxed. Letting her shoulders drop, Yomi leaned against her scythe and looked to Musubi with appreciation.

"Wow, Musubi-chan, you're still really good! I thought I had you a few times." Her shirt stuck dangerously against her skin as I couldn't help notice the shape of her legs as she leaned against the scythe.

Musubi rubbed the back of her head. "Yomi-san surprised me, too. You're really fast; I almost lost you a few times." Her clothes stuck close to her too, but since they were made with physical activity in mind, I didn't see anything, unlike Yomi's white shirt.

I cleared my throat, deciding to say something before they tackled me in surprise. "I have to say, the both of you impressed me just now." I grinned, looking to the both of them. "I'm proud to see how much you improved, Yomi, Musubi."

The two of them turned on a dime at the exact same time at the sound of my voice. Musubi lifted her hand and waved excitedly. Yomi, on the other hand, looked down at her chest, noticed that the drenched, white button-up did nothing to protect her modesty and covered her chest with a single arm.

"Takeshi-san! You're awake! When did you get up?" Musubi walked quickly over to me and stopped right in front of me.

"Just in the middle of your spar. Asama-san was telling me about how much the both of you improved." I placed a hand on Kuu's head, purely out of habit, and felt her lean into me.

"What are we doing today, Takeshi-sama?" Yomi slowly walked over to me.

"Well, I'm waiting for Yukari to call, then we head on over to her dorms. Hopefully, she doesn't need too much stuff, I want to get their quick and make sure she knows the game."

"Do you not want her to join the game?" Musubi asked me, perplexed.

I smiled at her, "I have mixed feeling about this Game. For one, I love that it's happening, because I've met all of you. On the other hand, I hate that it's happening because there's the chance that any of you can be taken away from me." I released a breath, "It's different with me. I knew what I was getting into when I joined the game by winging Toyotama. If Yukari has a chance of taking part of the game, then I want to make sure she's informed enough to make a sound decision."

Miya clapped her hands together and pushed herself to her feet. "I believe it's time for the two of you to get a bath. I can handle breakfast on my own." She looked over to me, "That is, unless you want to help me set the table, Hitomi-kun?"

"I'd love to, Asama-san." I stood as well. Looking down to Kuu, I asked her, "Do you want to help?"

She nodded enthusiastically and raced inside, followed by Miya.

A few moments later, we were all sitting around the table eating breakfast, when my phone rang. Nearly choking, I swallowed some tea and placed the cup down. Pulling out my phone, I flipped it open and checked the ID. Answering, I said, "Yeah?"

"I'm up, Onii-chan." She yawned. "I called just like I told you I would."

"Okay, is there anything you need?"

"Uh…nope. I'm all set."

"Good, then I'll be over there in a few moments. I just need you to give me directions." Excusing myself from the table, I went over to a side table and grabbed a pen and paper. Writing what she told me, I said, "Stay in your room, I'll only be half and hour at most."

"Onii-chan! I'll be fine." She whined to me.

"Yeah, I'll be the judge of that." I paused for a moment, then said, "Love you, sis."

"I love you, too, onii-chan." I could hear the smile in her voice.

Hanging up, I slid my phone into my pocket and walked back over to the dining room. "I'll be in my room changing. When you're done, meet me by the front door." Heading upstairs, I went into my room and changed into a pair of jeans, a T-shirt and a jacket. It was simple, easy to move in and breathed.

As I headed downstairs, I couldn't help but laugh lightly at the sight. Every single one of my Sekirei was standing right there.

"How'd I know you all would be there?"

Toyotama smirked, "This is important to you, isn't it? Making sure your imouto is safe? Well, we want to make sure you can do what you can for her." She blushed lightly, crossing her arms.

"Your wish is our command, Takeshi." Uzume winked at me, smiling warmly.

Tsukiumi cleared her throat, blushing lightly, "Um, yes. I want to do my best for my Ashikabi. I am your wife, after all." She then smiled haughtily.

Musubi and Yume scowled lightly, before looking up to me, smiling widely.

Matsu pushed her glasses up, "I can keep an eye on everyone from one of the satellites. No Sekirei will escape my sight, Take-tan."

Kuu ran up to me and latched onto my leg, "You're my onii-chan, plus we may see Shi-chan! Kuu wants to go!"

I grinned and ruffled Kuu's hair. "Alrighty, then. Let's go."