Standard Disclaimer

Got stupid cold here all the sudden and I still haven't gotten a new office chair. Great, work has me teaching my team how AWS works so we can do 'Micro Services' and that will be a nightmare in the end but hey, they pay me.

On Angels Wings

Chapter – 7

Tsukiumi wasn't sure how she felt about the shift in her life. It was maddening most of the time now, an insane mix of good and bad. This was not what she expected, not what she wanted, but damned if it wasn't good at times too! Little over a two weeks of co-habitation and being a winged Sekirei, that stupid girl, and she was making…well not friends but pleasurable acquaintances. Finally leaving the room, getting out of her initial depression, she had a new goal now. Tugging her boots up tighter as she walked to the center of the lawn, she readied her mind for this little spar. Musubi was demanding it, and the girl would not stop pushing for it. So Tsukiumi started to work more on what her Ashikabi said she could, getting Shinji's attention.

"This is going to be great! We can see how our training is progressing, and Shinji-sama can participate too! But why do we need our Ashikabi to be trained in fighting? It's our duty to keep them safe?" Musubi tightened her gloves and pulled them on tighter. It was late afternoon, schooling done for the day, and supper due in an hour. It was Shinji made today, sitting in the over cooking the last of its needs, so the whole of the house it seemed was sitting on the veranda watching. The little kid, the perverted four eyes, the drunk, and the guy that looked way to familiar for Tsukiumi's taste. Only people missing was the human drunk and the landlady. A lot more people than Tsukiumi wanted.

Tying her hair into a ponytail, Asuka had some dirty clothing on and an unreadable expression on her face. Doing some light stretches, "Cause the idiot needs to defend himself too. You're not always around, and if something happens he needs to be able to defend himself until you get there. I'm fine, don't need any help, so you owe me one for this." Who she was telling it wasn't known, Tsukiumi suspected her Ashikabi was talking to her. They hardly talked, not the partnership she always envisioned Ashikabi and Sekirei held. Well…they DID have it, Shinji and HIS Sekirei were thick as thieves.

"To defend and be defended be part and parcel of the dance of our lives. Aid to the back be aid to the front. He be to open and full of places that be easy to exploit and expose. Is that what you desire of the one you are pledged?" Tsukiumi found it hard to look at him. Much like Asuka, he was wearing lose fitting and stained clothing. Prescribed for them by their Sekirei, being thrown around in the dirt didn't do clean clothing a good business. He looked cute, so nervous and timid yet willing to try this for his Sekirei, for those he loved. Oh Tsukiumi wished to be part of that menagerie, but she could not. Not as a Ashikabi and Sekirei, but maybe Soryu had a point…man and wife was a different thing. "Cart get thee behind the horse," she muttered as she paired off with him.

Typing away on her computer, sharing a bottle of saki with Kazehana, Matsu adjusted her glasses, "So why are you training OUR Ashikabi Tsuki-tan? Not wanting to get your hands all over him do you? I haven't even gotten to…" Matsu took another drink, shook her head, and blushed away from Shinji's gaze. Yeah, the drunk talk was right with that one, Tsukiumi wasn't sure what to expect with that one. She had found the girl's laptop once, unlocked and open, and a file labeled Experiment Ten was waiting for her. Watching it, against her better judgment, Tsukiumi found a simulation of herself trying to s-s-seduce Shinji!

Stitching a butler outfit, suspiciously sized for a certain teenager, Uzume snickered. Shoulder bumping Kusano who was in a fluffy lion outfit, "I think she just wants to release some stress. What I can't understand is why is Kagari here watching? You've been spending more time with our little chef here than normal. At first I thought you had eyes on Katsuragi, but after yesterday…" Uzume rolled back as Kagari glared at her, and the girl fled out of range.

"I think it's just skill levels. Musubi-chan is skilled with this stuff so should give Asuka a bit of a challenge. Y-you're most skilled with that water manipulation right?" Shinji tried to keep his color neutral, but it was hard for him. With so many Sekirei watching and most teasing and talking about him, he was not happy being the center of attention. Following Tsukiumi's hand motions, he tried to block out the continuing teasing of Kagari and the drunk flirting of Matsu. Trying not to look into Tsukiumi's eyes, "T-thanks for taking the time for this. I know Musubi-chan has been asking for this since you two moved in. I'll try to make this quick so you two can have your spar and then I don't know…"

That flutter was there, that horrible flutter she wished wasn't, not now, but Tsukiumi felt it. Watching as her Ashikabi and that insufferably chipper girl paired off, she felt the eyes of the other Sekirei on them and not their battle-sister. They would descend upon her in a moment if she took one step out of line. She was a part-time ally, not in their circle, an outsider unable to join them. Well she'll show them, they were bound by one system, she would be bound by a richer one! "Terry not upon thanks and pledges! This is only due to the debt owed from your defense of me in that guttural pit of shame I had fallen. If ye had been stronger, faster, and more fitting ye wouldn't have been beaten and broken when the time of wings had come," oh she hated herself for it. But she couldn't…she couldn't just be earnest with him so she was harsh. Lied and pretended to scoff at him, wanting to be held…but in public she had an image.

Oh those watching were angered at that, Kusano's plant grew large and those tendrils lashed out into the air at them, but did not hit. Matsu took a belt of saki and whispered to Kazehana who nodded, and Kagari leaned in to watch closer, his host uniform standing out as the most elaborate garb among them. They did not like hearing the harsh words, only a little less than she enjoyed saying them.

"Y-you are right I guess. If I hadn't been hurt, So-Asuka-san wouldn't have been worried…sorry," Shinji confessed. That defeated look haunted Tsukiumi for a moment, but she kept her cool and collected persona going. Puffing his chest out, trying to put on a brave face as Asuka and Musubi started their 'training', "S-so what should I do?"

Yes, just as she felt the betrayal of fate at her Ashikabi's action in getting between them after Tsukiumi made her choice to join Shinji, so did he feel the same loss. "Follow my orders and a fighter I might make out of you, well…not fighter as ye be lacking the mentality of a fighter, but maybe a defender," Tsukiumi confessed. She let the snide comment from Matsu of 'He's a berserker in bed' fall to the wayside…girl didn't know what she was talking about, Tsukiumi KNEW Shinji hadn't laid hands on the bespeckled girl! For the next twenty minutes Tsukiumi felt something akin to relaxation!

Touching and moving her would-be Ashikabi about like a mannequin, instructing him on how to stand, how to punch, how to guard, and how to take a fall. So close, she could smell his breath upon her as she positioned him, feel his pulse quicken at her proximity…maybe Kazehana's little 'lovers embrace' comment or Kagari's scoffing at Tsukiumi's teaching technique. But she punched, threw, hit, was hit, and let some fake grapples that were more hugs that got Kusano to finally attack. Those vines wrapped around both Ku-chan's Ashikabi and Tsukiumi and forced them apart.

"And I guess that ends today's little experiment. Shin-tan I'll be your partner next time, you can throw me on the bed and…" Matsu received a biff to the back of the head compliments of Kagari. A few bottles were gathered up and deposited in the recycling bin.

Dragging Matsu into the Izumo Inn, "You're way too drunk to even stand, how about you have a lay down before supper. Shinji-kun, you did good, and you…I'll keep an eye on you still," Kagari was not fully trusting of the newest Sekirei among the group. Tsukiumi did not know what to think of that man, he was strange.

"K-Ku-chan put us down please, be a good girl now," Shinji pleaded as he was twirled about. It took a few more moments of being a living piñata, the two were gradually set down, a good distance apart. Dirty, covered in scratches, leaves, and a right mess, Shinji was smiling though. Holding his hand out, "T-thanks. Not the best starting of training…but if all of you are alright with this…I want to be stronger to help all of you."

Kusano and Musubi rushed over to him and sandwiched him in twin hugs, they all shared a moment. Tsukiumi found Asuka shambling over to her looking worse than Shinji did, "Let's get a bath in while he finishes food…and before those idiots drag him there and keep us out. I'm tired and sore, that girl doesn't know how to hold back much." Asuka took a stick out of her hair and threw it at Tsukiumi's face. Waiting a few moments for Tsukiumi to right her clothing, Ku-chan's attack messed it up something fierce, Asuka nodded towards the communal bath.

Following at a respectable distance, "You'd be broken if she didn't hold back. A maelstrom can only be blunted so much before it be naught but a strong wind." Tsukiumi had to try to like this person, this thief of happiness. They were to be together for possibly the rest of their lives, assuming this Sekirei Plan didn't go south. That first week of living here, Tsukiumi almost considered throwing her fight and just being put back into storage, let the pain leave. But now she had a goal, steal Shinji from those others…be his wife! Let them be the bodyguard to their lovenest! She just had to…actually talk to him without being curt, not insult him or his Sekirei…slow going.

"Yeah yeah, you Sekirei are freaks, but at least I don't have to worry about it. Just don't go throwing me at that happy monster whenever you want to touch that geek. I swear you were dry humping him while Musubi was trying to plant me into the ground!" Asuka quickly tossed off the smelly dirt smeared shirt and shorts. The Izumo Inn always had towels and robes at the ready in the bath, something that Miya woman was good for, so the pair didn't hit their room for necessities first.

Dirty herself, rubbing against Shinji's sweaty and dirt clad body did that, Tsukiumi followed suit. Using her powers, she played with the girl just a little. Pouring a few gallons of water on Asuka, Tsukiumi just sneered, "Would though have liked to take my place in the grapple? I see your eyes upon him, watch your eyes dance from body to body…mayhap you even desired Kagari-kun to be the one you sparred with? A little girl playing at being a woman of fine tastes?" Yeah, they were trying to make peace with their new position as Ashikabi and Sekirei, but it was slow going. A wall was between them, one that both knew existed but did not know how to tear down.

Every bit the drowned rat, hair covering her face, Asuka flung water off her fingers in Tsukiumi's face, "Oh fuck you. Kaji-san is the only one for me! You're the idiot that has her eyes on a low class male. And I think that Kagari is just as bad as you are. Saw those two in the common room yesterday with the new lush…this place is a den of perverts. You fit right in." Asuka huffed and got into the bath…she had been cleaned by Tsukiumi's little attack. Playing a little with the rubber duck, "Why the hell does that creepy landlady insist we keep this duck here?"

Actually taking a moment to clean herself at one of the small stools, Tsukiumi didn't say anything. Asuka went on and on about that Kaji person, she didn't like that. A girl Asuka's age and a full grown man? Legal maybe, strange more so. But, Tsukiumi supposed, it was just a fixation or crush. Asuka talked a big game, but did not always put the words to action. The number of times she heard the girl belittle Shinji was numerous, questioning why Tsukiumi loved the man…but still watched him. The lady doth protest too much.

Getting into the bath opposite her Ashikabi, Tsukiumi let the warm waters sooth her tired muscles, "Ye might be correct for the computer girl…be wary about her and the newest exhibitionist, but the rest just be in love." She saw that clear as crystal, those Sekirei adored their Ashikabi and that gave them power that Tsukiumi now was denied. The shared bond between the two was vital…she would have to at least become friends with Asuka or she'd lose and be denied her goal of marriage. Sinking up to her chin, "I doth wonder though how deep the bond goes…dare they go as far as my original fear?"

"If you're wondering if they have sex, I sweat its all you think of, I bet they have. Shinji is to cowed to NOT cave in if pushed. And they're all pushing him! This country is so odd, they have great guys like Kaji-san and yet you're all going gaga over that slip of an idiot. Betting even the landlady has some aims. You see them together?" Asuka slapped the rubber duck towards Tsukiumi. For a girl that was so mature, she slandered so much, hypocrite.

Now she had watched the odd show between Miya and Shinji, and Tsukiumi wasn't sure what to make of that. At times she was a doting mother, others a terrifying force of nature that kept the Izumo House running with an iron fist. Not winged, but a Sekirei of incredible power! Tsukiumi had watched a training session between Miya and Musubi and had no doubt. But with this Second Phase…would somebody have to wing Miya? "A woman of infinite complexity and depth be our dear dorm head. Not one I wish to be on the opposing side of," Tsukiumi confessed.

Covering her eyes with a wet cloth, Asuka just muttered and let the topic drift. They just chatted a little, slowly approaching one another socially, confused, and not wanting to take any chances. A careful dance, women with walls around their heart not ready to open the door for the other. The initial hatred was gone, and now it was just the growing acceptance of one another. Eventually their 'bonding' session ended when they heard the approaching mob of others coming. A little Sekirei party before supper, there was no fraternization between factions at this time.

X-X

"A-are you sure you don't want to watch the movie with us?" Shinji asked while trying to keep his thoughts pure. Standing under the hidden door to Matsu's loft, it was hard to not notice a little gravity related issue his Sekirei was suffering. Hanging upside down from the opening, hair and um…other things hung down dangling in strange ways. Really easy for a lad to get ideas, not hard when he kept hearing half veiled offers, that a hormonal charged mind might latch onto. Scratching his cheek, "Kagari-san, Kazehana-san, and Uzume-san were going to join us. And Musubi-chan and Ku-chan went to get snacks."

How her glasses didn't fall was a mystery but they hung to her head perfect as she blinked rapidly, but Matsu had a small reluctance firmly in place. Shaking her head, "Sadly I've few things I need to do right now. MBI and Nerv are doing some strange things, keeping tabs on them. B-but…some other time…I've a nice set-up up here, we've not had any real p-private time just between us. Would you…would you like to?" A faint pinkness tinted her cheeks, reserved for Shinji's company alone.

Nodding, that grin he tried to fight peeked through, "Sure. Name the time and I'd be glad too. We haven't had much time to talk, j-just us lately. Well, I won't keep you then." With a wave he watched as Matsu drew back up into her loft and the door shut, so flush with the ceiling it was invisible to the naked eye. Just the other day they had their little chat after the whole Tsukiumi and Asuka spar so it was more on Shinji's mind than ever. Matsu was just like Musubi, she had feelings for him and he had some for her that were growing with every moment. "Just hope she doesn't find anything to strange, or get into trouble," Shinji cast one last lingering worried glance up at the loft.

Not being very technologically inclined, Shinji's knowledge of hacking was all based on movies and Kensuke. It worried him that Matsu did it. If she got caught, what would happen? A life without that publicly outgoing and privately shy girl, not something Shinji wanted. The bond between Sekirei and Ashikabi was special.

"What did I tell you about leaving your hair brush on the floor? I stepped on it and nearly cut my foot!" Asuka yelled as she hurled said brush at Tsukiumi. Well…normally the bond between pairs was special.

Dodging the brush and tossing a balled up piece of cloth at Asuka, who ducked to the side so it hit Shinji in the face, Tsukiumi was not just going to sit and take it. Finger going under Asuka's nose, "And what be of your delicates being hoisted as if some flag for all to salute to! Ye be brazenly showing what naught anybody would wish for every eye to see!"

Taking the aforementioned delicate off his face, it was a bra, Shinji held the silky thing between the fingers of both hands and marveled at how small it was. Well for a teenage girl maybe it was large, but Shinji was surrounded by Sekirei that dwarfed his fellow pilot. "U-um…did you need this? D-did you want to watch a movie in the common room with…" Shinji didn't know what to expect, but he did not get it. Asuka, being ever the adult, smacked him hard after claiming her clothing back. He spun around from the force and found himself stopped by Tsukiumi, her hands warm and moist, her beautiful face filling his whole world, "T-Tsukiumi-san?"

"He doth did nothing to ye and yet you deem him worthy of pain? What sort of brute or cruel mistress do you play at being? Doth it hurt much?" Tsukiumi gently probed. One hand softly went over the red handprint while the other took his wrist with those soft fingers, eyes locked, hers glistened for but a moment, Shinji thought at least, and was back to the pristine orbs of hard splendor.

Knowing it was wrong, but Shinji believed he could stare into those eyes for a good long time and get lost in them. She wasn't his Sekirei, Tsukiumi was bound to Asuka, but Shinji still felt that old binding thread that originally called him to her. Believing his own worth to be low, not nothing but low, he didn't deem himself worthy of the bounty he already had. Maybe that was why Tsukiumi was not allowed. Tsukiumi was cut from a unique cloth of the most exquisite and noble attractiveness, something Shinji believed himself unworthy, and as fate seemed to play out, wasn't.

"You two going to make googly eyes at one another, fuck on the floor, or are we going to finish this discussion in our room? Sorry for hitting you, spur of the moment, this moistened bink drives me to rage. And no, no movie for me, I've the trip to Okinawa to plan for!" Asuka did at least sound apologetic as she tapped her foot. The moment the words registered in Shinji's mind he shamefully pulled away from the Sekirei of water and hurried off, leaving the two to continue their argument.

Don't think about it, don't think about it, don't…don't…what would life had been like if Asuka hadn't stepped in? He couldn't imagine, but he felt something had been robbed from him by Asuka's action, but that was just how it was. Heading to the living room, he saw the couch populated by Uzume and Kazehana who was already drinking, and one of the chairs had Kagari. Where did he sit? The couch had one last seat and there was another flanking chair. Waving at the gathered, Shinji giggled a little when Kagari went to wave back but stopped, he had spoken a few times with Kagari since Tsukiumi moved in. A real nice guy, little cold and off putting, but nice to talk to…helped Shinji with dating ideas since Kagari mentioned dating a few of the girls from the club he worked at. Thankfully it never was Misato, Shinji didn't want a strange triangle between his beloved Misato and growing respect for the man.

"I take it the shut-in is staying in her loft, and I bet she offered you a private show later?" Uzume patted the open cushion…right between the two women. Wearing a little more refined version of what Kazehana wore, just longer and pink, she was relaxed and curled up showing a nice amount of thigh.

Owing up to his oh so horrible fate of being sandwiched on the couch, Shinji sat down and tried to make himself small. If he had taken the chair now, Uzume and Kagari would tease him for being 'afraid of women'. Not afraid at all, not after that date with Musubi oh so long ago. They hadn't had another chance to bask in one another's embrace, the Izumo House was oft hovering around them, but Shinji wasn't afraid of a repeat performance now. "She had something she was working on, and s-she did. We haven't had much time to talk lately. Been so busy with Nerv stuff and the whole…" they all heard Asuka and Tsukiumi's soft yelling.

"Those two are going to kill one another, never saw such a mirrored personality than those two. Way to much effort, Shinji-kun, way to much effort. Let that be a lesson, some girls are just way to much drama," Kagari spoke with a hint of experience. For his comment he received twin cushions thrown at him from the couch.

Reclaiming her cushion off the ground, sipping her saki glass after leaning onto the side of the couch, Kazehana had a booze blush going. "My-my you're not the timid boy I initially thought you were when you moved in. Not one but two…maybe three women under you? You've the right hand and cheeks…just if you were a little more…" she sipped again and hit the play button. Ok, now this was a woman that Shinji was horribly intimidated by. It was Misato dialed up to twelve out of ten! Casually showing so much skin, so openly talking about love and…well lust, and just oozed with sexually charged energy. OH and she kept teasing about Musubi and his experience.

"You better not be counting ME as being under his sway, Shin-chan is just a tool for making Mari-chan happy! She's my Ashikabi and the one I love…she just has a little hero worship for our little pilot here. Oh, I have a new suit for you for our next visit as well. Going to wean her off of you and solely onto me!" Uzume kicked her feet about playfully knocking into Shinji's. But, something was a little off about Uzume he noticed. The smile never went all the way to her eyes anymore, not since this Second Phase started. Distant, pulling away, Shinji wouldn't push for answers, not his place, but he worried this stupid Sekirei Plan was having bad results for all involved.

Kagari dimmed the lights, turned up the sound, and the movie started. It was a romantic comedy, likely something from Misato's collection. Sadly Misato had some work and Miya was off seeing Seo about something and couldn't join them. Try as he might to focus on the movie, Shinji just couldn't. Uzume would shift a little, her leg slapping his, Kazehana coo happily during a romantic scene or drink and list a bit against him, or Kagari would scoff at the male leads wishy-washy attitude and tell Shinji not to act that way. No, Shinji was focused on the room and not the movie…but as time moved on he got worried.

Pulling out his phone, "They should be back by now…shop isn't that far away." Musubi and Kusano should have been back by now, movie was already a third over! Texting his wayward lover, asking where she was and if she was having any issue, he was aware the others focus was on him now, movie paused. Holding the phone up lamely, "Sorry, worried about why they're late." He got a bad feeling, he couldn't place it, but just felt he had to hear from them!

'Ku-chan wandered off while I was buying the snacks. I'm looking for her. Sorry' Musubi's clumsily written response got Shinji to stand up.

Already heading towards the door, "Sorry I have to go. Musubi-chan got separated from Ku-chan and…I don't know. Something feels wrong. You can watch the rest if you want." He was about to run off, but felt an iron clad grip on his wrist stop him, "Kagari-san? D-did you want to come too?" Something was off about the 'hard-cool' expression that Misato drunkenly said was what teenage girls fell for.

"Take this with you, just in case," Kagari handed Shinji Kusano's little potted plant. Once Shinji had a firm grip on it, that hand released him and Kagari went back to the couch and hit the play button again. Uzume hid her mouth behind her cushion while Kazehana tilted her head a little and just held her saki glass for a moment.

Well thoughts for later, first Shinji had to find Ku-chan. A few more texts between Musubi and himself got him on course. Musubi was checking the park and greenery around the shop they frequented, but Shinji just stood at that shop with that growing sense of dread. It was like when he first met Kusano, he felt like he was being drawn or pulled by unseen tendrils. Holding out the plant, "Can you find her?" he pleaded to the small plant that Kusano had often made into quite the intimidating beast.

Was it moving, was it his imagination, or the wind Shinji didn't know, but the sense of dread increased so he ran in direction the plant waved. Away from the shopping district and into the industrial, Shinji considered texting Musubi but held off. If he was being stupid and following a breeze he could be tricking Musubi away from where Ku-chan actually was. Now surrounded in factory buildings, warehouses, nasty smells, and loud sounds Shinji was positive the plant was guiding him. Finding a fence leading to a warehouse open, the lock undone…he sent a text just in case and stole inside.

Where was all the workers? This looked like a modern building, yet no people? Sneaking further into the building, Shinji's heart lurched in his chest as he saw a Sekirei advancing on an unarmed and defenseless Kusano!

"Higa-sama will praise me for taking you out little one. Without your plants you're just a worthless little girl. Just show me your crest and I'll make it painless. Don't and…" the Sekirei clacked two large blades together as she herded Kusano into corner. A bay of computers to one side and cabinets on the other, Shinji saw the woman wore black leggings that went up to what appeared to be a blue swimsuit and spikey brown hair.

Knowing it was stupid, that he was no match for this woman, Shinji ran regardless. "Leave her alone! She's my Sekirei and I won't let you threaten her!" oh how mighty he must have looked holding a potted plant. Getting closer, hoping Ku-chan could start to work her abilities on the greenery yet it remained docile.

"Oh-ho, so you're the Ashikabi that stole this one from Higa-sama then? The one he's spying on…you're not worth his attention," the Sekirei turned and had a feral grin on her face. Slashing her blades against one another, setting sparks off in Shinji's direction, "He said not to attack an Ashikabi…but what he doesn't know won't hurt him, right?"

Resigned to the task, Shinji did wonder about the whole 'don't attack an Ashikabi' but that was a thought for…well maybe never. If he could get the plant closer to Kusano she'd at least be safe right? "Ku-chan, get out of here!" he dove through the gap between the woman's legs and felt the wind of her swinging at him. Sliding along the ground towards his darling little flower child, "Ku-chan snap out of it!" The girl was traumatized with fear, not good! Getting back to his feet, he stood defiantly before the woman guarding Kusano.

"Brave little Ashikabi, maybe you had some merit after all, oh well, better to nip this flower in the bud," the Sekirei rushed in and swung. Only the blade stopped inches from Shinji's neck, the wind in the small office was now near blinding, yet it was keeping the aggressor in place. "W-what the hell is this? She has power over plants from the report not wind!" the woman fought against her confines!

Stepping into the office, Kazehana had a sultry upturn to her lips, "Well she does control her little plants, I on the other hand am known as the 'Wind Flower' so I take her safety as important. You leave for ten minutes and what do I find…quite the manly show." Moving around the woman, the wind intensifying, "You did know I was a Sekirei, did you not?"

As Shinji shook his head, the woman spat out, "What can an unwinged do to me? You'll be a gift to Higa-sama and be my subordinate! Let me go now and maybe I won't rough you up first!"

"OH about that…Shinji-chan…I choose you," Kazehana yanked Shinji away from his position defending Kusano and…some people had a skill and Kazehana must have had a lot of them. The wind intensified so much Shinji was sure they were flying as he winged her, Ku-chan hanging onto his leg. And when the wind died down, the unknown Sekirei was gone, Kazehana was blushing and offered, "You've lovely lips my Ashikabi-sama…know how to use them. Musubi-chan must really get weak in the knees…I am…or is it the booze…" Hand to cheek she just winked at him as he scooped Kusano up and she took the plant.

Musubi met them at the door and hugged Shinji and Kusano tightly…another Sekirei? He winged another? And this one was…Shinji swallowed hard and did his best not to think about it. They went back to the Izumo House, Uzume was gone so Musubi and Ku-chan took her spot, restarted the movie and…yeah tried to relax. Only this time Kazehana openly clung to his side with a devilish smirk.

X-X

Pulling her faux-miko outfit back on, the comforting snugness always a delight, Musubi felt good. A nice spar with Tsukiumi and Miya was enlightening, the lunch Shinji made great, and the bath refreshing! Yes, a good Sunday for sure. Now what to do for the rest of the day though? They had already won the necessary fight, Shinji wasn't having any further dreams of Sekirei, heck he already got a new one a couple days ago, and things were going well for them! Pulling her gloves one, she watched her ally in the never ending spar against the landlady, "So what are you going to be doing for the rest of the day?"

Fluffing her hair, Tsukiumi grumbled, "Mine dwelling need refreshing much as our bodies did as yon princess care not for her world as much as her body." The moisten Sekirei appeared to vibrate a little with frustration and anger, Musubi couldn't relate. Having fights with her Ashikabi, it must be a real frustration! And Tsukiumi and Soryu were always at one another's throats. Stopping at the doorway, "And what doth ye be planning with I-Ikari-kun? A romantic getaway, proving yourself worthy of the affection he lavishes upon ye and his other Sekirei? Twer I his Sekirei, a grant event would be already underway."

Was she supposed to set that type of thing up? Musubi thought it was Shinji that planned stuff like that, was she doing this wrong? Following close behind, finger going to chin, "I don't know. He's with Matsu-san right now. I wouldn't mind another trip to that fun hotel! Oh, did you know how good it feels to…oh yeah your Ashikabi is a girl. Guess it wouldn't be the same." The inn was oddly quiet right now, she could hear faint talking and motion all around, Uzume was sewing, Miya was giving Kusano a small teaching session, and an odd vibration sound she couldn't place. Noticing Tsukiumi picked up her pace, Musubi increased hers as well. "Well I guess women can do something similar, but would it be exactly the same?" she pondered.

"Be your muscles the only strong point about you? A head of flowers or an empty chasm, be what I think exists between thy ears! And know this, in time I shall show ye what a true pairing be between beloveds!" Tsukiumi's face had taken a crimson note as she reached her room. Music was heard on the other side of the door, a language Musubi didn't know. Opening up the thing sliding door, clothing and papers spilled out, that mighty booted foot stomped, "Soryu! Ye have failed again to keep thy mount of soiled silks from spilling into my side, a river of fabric that a male ought not see!"

Turning down the music, Asuka peeked out and saw Musubi watching, "Hey, aren't you supposed to be my servant or something? You take care of it, or I can get that idiot you keep swooning over when he's not looking to do it!" And like that the great battle began again, Tsukiumi hurried inside, kicking Asuka's clothing into the room and slamming the door shut.

"They get along so well!" Musubi skipped off. They were like sisters, bickering and whining at one another, but never going too far. Must be nice to have a sister, but it wasn't the same sensation as having an Ashikabi. Speaking of her doting other half, Musubi felt that small burning fire in her start to grow hotter. They did have some time right? Could they…? It had only happened that one day, maybe they could try again! It had been overwhelming that day, so many unexpected thoughts, feelings, and sensations. Now that her mind had time to appreciate it, she was ready for a second go! "Oh, hey! Kazehana-chan, would you like to spar tomorrow while Shinji-sama is at school?" Musubi asked the Sekirei lingering under Matsu's loft entrance.

Palm to cheek, Kazehana spun around and her hair flourished out magnificently, "Ah, and here is our little teddy bear. I'll leave the sparring to the youth for now. Maybe another time. As for now…maybe I can stop spying on a rather shy Matsu and get the real meat from you?" As she approached Musubi, a soft wind dispersed and the sound of the loft door shutting was heard. Offering Musubi a genuine smile, the cool beauty's eyes were alive with a new passion. Spinning Musubi around and leading her to the common room, still in view of the loft entrance though, "So spill, tell me what you know about our timid little Ashikabi."

"He isn't timid or little, he's the perfect size!" Musubi countered the slight about her Master! Shinji wasn't aggressive, but that didn't make him timid. He was…strangely courageous when Musubi would wish him to not be. Had he gotten hurt during his bouts of foolish bravery, she'd be devastated! As for his size, well, he was perfect for cuddling and hugging, the more she thought the more she'd like to do so! Pacing the room, a strange sensation growing in her, "He is brave in the face of danger, both in and out of that machine of his. He is patient with me, explains things when I misunderstand. And…" She would have kept going on defending Shinji had Kazehana not shook her head.

Giggling the woman just rotated her shoulders and her tight fitting top caused those mounds to bounce, "Not what I was talking about. HIM, what can you tell me about him, and not his attributes that drew us to him. What gets his engine going, does he like giving or receiving, anything I can expect from him to endear me to him all the more? I didn't expect my Ashikabi to be one his age, but I can feel that love he has for Matsu, Ku-chan, and yourself and I'm covetous." Making a small circle around Musubi, she picked up a waiting bottle and offered it to Musubi.

Not liking saki much, it tasted nice but made her slow and her instincts muddles, Musubi waved off the offer. Watching as Kazehana took that as a sign she could keep the rest for herself and opened the bottle. "Well he starts his machine by thinking about it, I think…I don't understand the sync concept. Oh and he is always giving! He makes me food, fixes my clothing, and he does that for everybody! And everything he does makes me care more! He gave Misato-san a shoulder rub yesterday and when he finished he gave me one! It felt so relaxing!" It had been a little awkward at first, Misato had sounded a little…well she sounded like Musubi did that one evening! Thinking of that room, what they did, Musubi found she couldn't stand still, a very curious sensation.

Turning quickly to the loft door, eyes wide with hidden knowledge, "Guess I shouldn't have expected much from you, you are easily swayed by the simpler things. Matsu-chan however, after THAT…I'll ask her, assuming she's still awake." Sauntering over to the loft entrance, she made a small cyclone that opened the door and caught a wayward Ikari as he tried to open it. Bringing him close to her before letting the winds subside, "You beast, what did you do to my friend with that unexpected skilled fingers and tongue?"

"W-what? W-we just watched a movie is all, Matsu-chan has been lonely lately so thought an afternoon with her would be f-fine," Shinji couldn't make eyes with either Sekirei. He trembled a little as Kazehana sniffed above him, casually touched his shoulders. When she went to the loft's ladder and pulled it down, he hurriedly added, "S-she might be t-taking a nap! You might…give her some time maybe?"

Blowing a kiss at the lad, Kazehana actually stood a little taller, "My-my such the gentleman. But such a wolf in sheep's clothing, willing to gobble up…well…she's no innocent lamb, never was. I'll just go watch that movie with her then. Musubi-chan, how about you take our suffering Ashikabi out for a treat. From what I heard…was a one sided affair and might leave him hungry. If somebody were nefarious, they might make a play." With one last wink, the Sekirei of the wind ascended into the loft and shut the door.

Always enjoying being close to Shinji, Musubi oozed over to him and took his hand and felt that fire grow even greater! "So you watched a movie with Matsu-san? What was it, and were you hungry, supper isn't normally for a little while, but I could make you curry if you wanted!" she so rarely got to cook for him now. Between Miya and Shinji, the house hardly went unfed. Then she smelled something, it was faint, oh so subtle but a familiar scent. Closing her eyes and sniffing hard, she remember it now, and clung closer to her Ashikabi-sama, "You smell good."

"You do too, Musubi-chan, did you just get out of the bath? H-how did the spar with Tsukiumi-c-san go? And no, I'm not really hungry," Shinji patted her arm and shuddered. They paused outside of their room for a moment, Shinji hearing that buzzing sound, and then he quickly drug Musubi away towards the common room again. He was extra energetic, that alluring smell was increased and wafting off of him. "D-did you hear what Kazehana-san did?" Shinji asked in conspiratorial tones.

On an unknown impulse, Musubi took initiative and lead Shinji towards the entrance. From time to time she got these odd drives, hard to place them really. Her mind fogged over a little, a faint voice heard but not understood, and then…well she typically got really good ideas after! "I didn't hear anything. But, if not hungry how about we go for a walk then! Just us. You spent this morning playing with Ku-chan, then the movie with Matsu-san, would it be alright if we…spent some time?" her hand went to his chest for some reason…she felt his heart beating so powerfully!

Leaning against her, "I'd love to do that Musubi-chan. A nice long walk would do me good," Shinji gently took her hand and moved it from his chest. Oh how that musk increased, and it was intoxicating! So the pair walked, Musubi had infinite energy when with Shinji! They walked the residential neighborhood around the Izumo House, a small park where they saw a Sekirei fight that ended in a draw. It was very one-sided Musubi felt, a fighter versus a singer who ran off after putting the aggressor into a stupor after a song. And as the sun crested the sky, the pair found themselves on a familiar street standing outside a building they had used once. Shocked out of his content walk, Shinji took notice and his fingers tightened, "M-Musubi-chan? I…did I bring us here? S-sorry, I didn't mean too. G-guess my head is a little…"

AH! Musubi understood now, or at least she thought she did! "Did you and Matsu-san…" Musubi found Shinji's hands over her mouth again! A sign she was right, or was about to say something she wasn't supposed to say in public. Matsu told her when such things happen, she needed a punishment, which Shinji needed to administer it. When his hands pulled away, Musubi found her excitement growing, "I'm glad! We're all…we're in this together, Ashikabi and Sekirei. I'd feel bad if she was left out." Dragging the protesting Ashikabi inside the establishment, the A/C was so cool in here she shivered, "Shall we?"

Keeping quiet until after paying the woman at the counter, Shinji kept his head down. Once in the elevator though, "Y-you really don't mind? I mean...I always thought couples were supposed to be exclusive. When I was with Matsu-chan earlier...I felt bad. Like I was betraying you. I-I love you, I don't want to hurt you...but I kept thinking I might if we...went all the way." Poor kid was nearly hyperventilating after his confession, pulsing back and forth on steadily weakening legs. It stopped when Musubi scooped him up bridal style and kissed his cheek.

"You could only hurt me by sending me away," Musubi openly stated, no ruse no qualifications. Holding the bundle of heat against her, the sensation that had started earlier today now a raging fire, she just wanted to never let go. This man, her Ashikabi-sama, was so tender and fragile, so easily hurt and terrified of hurting. Kissing his forehead again, "I'll protect you forever, Shinji-sama. It doesn't matter to me who you love, as long as I can be by your side. I know I don't...understand a lot of things, the Professor joked that I was a bit of a dunce...but I know that. I wasn't fibbing about how I am happy you and Matsu-chan spent time. She's been training me actually!" Training being watching videos that Matsu left for her to watch while others were sleeping.

Leaning into Musubi's ample frame, Shinji relaxed and closed his eyes, "You're to accepting, Musubi-chan. I'll do my best to be a good Ashikabi for you. And when all this fighting business is over..." He sputtered out and just let her carry him. Using the mag-key at the door, the beep caused both to jump a little. He snickered a little, "I thought the husband was supposed to carry the bride over the threshold...but in our case this makes more sense."

Bride? What was a bride? Musubi heard the term in movies and overheard Tsukiumi muttering it to herself, but she didn't know what it meant. Things for later, now was for them to enjoy. Unceremoniously dropping Shinji onto the bed, Musubi was out of her outfit in a matter of moments. With how often it got damaged or destroyed, it wasn't much of a skill to disrobe. Hovering over her Ashikabi, "H-how long do we have to do this?" It was new and exhilarating, pleasure on a level she never knew, but more intoxicating was the relaxation that came with it! No worries of being attacked, of having to defend herself or her beloved, it was just them in a world of emotion.

"I-I paid for an hour, but we can get an ex-extention if needed," Shinji stole off the bed, red faced and stammering. Taking his shirt off he hung it oddly over the mirror in the room. It was like the last time they visited the hotel. A nondescript white room, nice plush leather sofa and love seat, a large television on the wall, a mirror, and...the luxurious bed. Turning back as he clumsily undid his pants, "M-Matsu-chan said they hid cameras behind the mirrors...don't want anybody watching or recording."

Swallowing hard as she saw the last of Shinji's clothing hit the grown, Musubi was again a little intimidated by what she saw. Was he normal sized, smaller, bigger, who knew, but it was imposing on the Sekirei. With outstretched hands she beckoned to him, "Lets get some practice in! Matsu-chan said I have to get you ready for her...and Kazehana-san likely as well!" They'd be a big happy family, like in the movies and television! She loved him, they all did, he loved them...that was family right? Skin to skin, lips finding one another, she shivered as that lively tongue snuck into her mouth. Her Ashikabi had a skill for this, well a knack for this whole act. At least to her...she'd have to ask Matsu her opinion.

How long they just held one another and embraced, Musubi didn't know, but that fire was almost painful in her now. Feeling that heat press against her thigh, she found her hand reaching down for it, just as Shinji's hand cupped her left breast. What did Matsu's video's show? Ah yes, stroke it, let the man do the same to top and bottom...sensation overwhelming. Both stumbled and fell onto the bed, heads bonking off one another with a solid clunk. Laughter, the pain didn't matter, hardly felt it really, her heart was so loud she wasn't sure if he was talking or not.

He had been, but she was to focused on the sensation of heat in her hands and bliss in her chest. He slid away, the heat left...only to be replaced with a new sensation of wetness and more heat between her legs. Oh yeah, this was called foreplay! Prepping herself up a little, she saw the top of Shinji's head between her legs, just his hair as he was buried deeply and then she fell back. This could be addicting, this feeling of electricity, of parts of her she never thought about aside from toilet time being so stimulated by her most darling Ashikabi. Something grew inside her as he worked the folds and her bud, it grew so large she was afraid for a moment and then...she released over his face.

More laughter, more oneness, yes she would defeated even Miya if she had to in order to protect this person, her destined one. After her mind unclouded, she saw him hovering over her, concern ebbing from his face, she just wrapped her arms around him, pulled him close, and well...used her strength to help him enter her. Just as mind shattering as the first time, feeling that heat spread her open, deep inside, places untouched, she just held him for a moment. He needed it too, as his eyes were closed too, face red with exertion. Images from those sinfully interesting videos came to mind, positions, more foreplay options...later. They were still novices in this craft, time would give them the skill to move beyond this. But for now...now it was just an oiled machine.

Hands danced over each other, hers on his back, Shinji's on her side or accidentally groping at her gyrating bosom. That sensation of 'building' came again, only it put the previous one to shame, mind cloudy again, the world reduced to just this room, this bed, this man. Then she felt liquid fire fill her, but it did not hurt, it did not sear, it was elation. Panting, Shinji was still ridged as he went to escape her, but she held him close...they weren't done yet, not at all.

They used the hour, got an extension, and used that to just cuddle and hold one another. A bastion of safety and love in a world that was plotting against them. Musubi carried her Ashikabi home, he was nearly exhausted by the end...she'd need to learn a few things to help share the load of the experience.

X-X

"Was not expecting to see that today," Kaji covered his mouth in disgust. Saving the video off of the private secure server to a thumb drive along with a few more strange files he was requested to get, he wanted out of Nerv for today. Always with the random requests from his government handlers, and today was security footage and any evidence of collusion between MBI and Nerv. Not being well versed in numbers, the latter request was unknown. Let the eggheads figure it out. The videos he got though…that painted a very scary situation. Gendo had Adam implanted into his hand, and he was pretty sure all of those doctors were 'transferred' out. Something to follow up on, did those doctors make it to their new homes?

Putting his ear to the door to the unused office after packing up his microcomputer, he heard nothing. Opening the door and rushing out he thankfully wasn't betrayed by his ears. Nice and empty, why he chose this abandoned office. Making his way back into the more frequently travelled parts of Nerv, he waved at the few people he knew. A few of his old contacts winked, waved, smiled, or in rare cases turned away in disgust. Hey, he couldn't keep talking to EVERY tech that at one time helped him…or remember their name. One last check on the his favorite mad scientist for the day and he was off.

"But what do I do after I leave today?" Ryouji wondered aloud. The life of a spy was pretty boring outside of the actual spy craft. Typically it was cook a simple meal, have a beer or something harder, maybe watch a movie, and if he had somebody he needed to hit up for information spend time with them. Movies never showed that part of the spy's life, the empty downtime. Pulling out his phone, he had a message, he noticed the number and sighed, "Why is that girl so focused on me?" Hopefully Asuka would grow out of her crush.

Finding his target in her lab, as typical, Kaji let himself in and helped himself to a nice little hug from behind. Cold fish as she was, Ritsuko did relax into his back a little, "So how you doing today? Leaving you so alone should be criminal. Guys here are losing their edge." Kaji gave Ritsuko a little shimmy before letting her go, it was a joke between them and they both knew it. Friends yes, but they both knew where loyalties lied, at least Kaji hoped he knew. Peeking at her monitor, "Another bodyguard? How many does that make it now for him? She another…?"

Nodding with just a little more exuberance than she normally showed, her fixation on those oddities was well known, Ritsuko pointed at the screen. With a little laugh, "Happened a few days ago according to Misato. And it's only two, the blond ended up becoming Soryu's. And this one is a real doozy of a flirt if Misato is telling the truth. Power over wind though, really want a sample from that one. So why are you here?" Spinning around in her seat, she left the two photos of this Kazehana up for him to view. Relaxing in her chair a little, her top open just enough for Kaji to get a view at the rather fancy hidden wrapper.

"This Sekirei business is crazy if you ask me. Letting some rich guy have a bunch of super powered people fight in the streets? What if they damage Nerv tech…Gendo would go to war. And I'm just on my way out, thinking of what to do after I leave. Want to get some food or a drink?" Kaji felt his mouth go a little dry. Shinji's newest puppet was a true vision, buxom and the hair got Kaji thinking of easier and happier times all things considered. And was Ritsuko…coming on to him? She was tugging on her shirt, legs crossed and kicking, and he could swear she was giving him the eye?!

Pulling out a smoke and offering Kaji one, Ritsuko shrugged, "I've a few hours yet, so I'll text you and maybe we can do something. And you got that right about the commander. Minaka-san and the commander really seem to hate one another. Thankfully having these Sekirei work as bodyguards does keep them safe from any human threat. Oh, did you hear about Misato's newest fixation?" Taking the light from Kaji's lighter, the two sparked up and added to the already smoky smell of the lab.

Oh sweet nicotine ease his stress and relax his mind, he hoped. Damn things were way to expensive, but with so little else to spend his money on it was an allowed extravagance. Feeling his phone vibrate again, it was Asuka again, so he took an extra-long drag, "No, she's been odd lately. Maybe I could go check on her. She working now?" He had fallen out of step with his ex, really missed the woman. But she was sharp as a tack, would see through any of his easy ploys, and she didn't really forgive him for past transgressions. Guy occasionally wanted to stick it into other things, not his fault…and he was pretty sure she was sneaking around too at the time.

"She was in earlier today getting the preliminary reports for her latest bout of crazy. Volcano not to far out of town, some readings indicate there might be an angel egg in it. So our next mission might be to drop an Eva down to check. And yeah, she's not liking the fact her little man is likely giving it to his bodyguard…soon to be guards. If what she tells me is true, that blond is sniffing around him too. Kid has his choice of the litter it seems," Ritsuko winked at Kaji as she mentioned it blowing out her exhaust in almost a sensual way.

He had to leave or he'd make a mistake here, Ritsuko was just tired or something and he was overthinking. "Well guess I'll go check on her, probably best to check on Soryu as well. That kid has been calling me for some reason. Anything you want me to get from Katsuragi?" he put out his half-finished smoke and pocketed it. Looking, but trying not to show himself looking, at Ritsuko as she moved about in more unique ways as he headed for the door.

"Not her, she's keeping me updated. But tell her that we need those two new Sekirei brought in for testing. With MBI being as closed sourced on them, we need as much raw data as possible. I might have found a way to shut down some of their abilities," with one last drag she tossed the cashed butt into the trash and went back to work. Always so elusive and vague, Ritsuko was why Kaji only played with the simpler women. Smart women made him nervous, always assuming they were tricking or using him…just playing with him.

Listening to Asuka's two calls as he went to his car, he had to snicker at her melodrama. Shame Shinji was such a timid thing, it would have been great if Shinji had taken the kid off his hands. But listening to the first call, just a request for…shopping for swimwear? Kids playing at adult games was dangerous, and Asuka was not subtle. The second call nearly got Kaji to drop his phone, and he actually had to watch the video to calm himself. Girl was screaming bloody hell and saying she was being attacked! Only…Asuka didn't know about the video and it showed a very safe and secure face. He did care about Asuka, she was a unique girl, pretty damned sad all things considered so he wanted to be nice to her, support her. Kid just took it to far.

Driving to the Izumo House, thankfully details Asuka gleefully texted him once she moved in, Kaji found himself taking side roads and avoiding major ones. Always good to cover your tracks, just in case somebody is tracking you. Parking outside of the classic boarding house style building that just oozed money, who paid for this place? No matter, Kaji was stunned to see a set of twins angrily pacing outside, "Hey, something wrong?" he asked while getting out. Their eyes were on him instantly, and they did not look pleased to see anybody.

"Who are you and why are you here?" one of the twins asked. He'd be intimidated if they weren't dressed in cliché maid uniforms and had signs leaning against the wall for a cake shop.

He'd play along with the odd twins. Holding his hands up in submission, "Just here to see a friend of mine, Katsuragi Misato and Soryu Langley Asuka." He wanted to know Shinji a bit more, but kid was always secluded thanks to Misato's possessive and protective nature. At the mention of Misato one twin got even more annoyed, curious. Getting closer to the gate, but not walking in without permission. Giving his best ladykiller smile, "Can I go in and see her?"

The other twin rolled her eyes uninterested in Kaji's attempts at wooing her, "We don't live here. Waiting for somebody to leave. And you look like the type that Katsuragi would interact with. I told you, Hikari, I told you." Picking up her sign, the unnamed woman paced further away from the entrance.

"Well if you're not the gatekeepers, I'll see myself in then," Kaji slowly walked in, not quite sure how to take his rejection. They didn't stop him, so he didn't let it bother him. Rapping on the door, "Hello, Ryouji Kaji here to visit Katsuragi?" He hoped it wasn't Asuka that heard him and made everything strange. Life could be heard in this place though, a lot of it. Yelling and strange phrases such as 'Mizu no Ya' and 'Kuma-ken', guess it was training day for Shinji's bodyguards or something. When the door opened, Kaji did a double take and his jaw slackened just a little, ok…this woman was a beauty. Elegant and classical beauty wrapped in a traditional package of a kimono, Kaji enjoyed that.

Bowing lightly to the guest, the woman stepped to the side and gestured for him to enter, "Ah yes, Kaji-kun, you've been mentioned before in some glowing and lesser terms. You'll find Katsuragi-kun in the kitchen." The sound of soft footfalls distracted the woman and Kaji watched her quickly turn to anticipate the approaching person, "S-Shinji-kun, you are off to get the supplies for supper? I had wished to go with you, but we have a guest I must tend…" When she turned back to Kaji, for a moment, he saw pure unblemished rage on the woman's face, but then that classical elegance again.

"Oh it's fine Miya-san, hello Kaji-san. I'll be quick, did you need anything off the list?" Shinji put his shoes on, oblivious to the woman's nervous energy behind him…and the three heads peeking from around the corner. A little kid, a brunette, and…wow that woman was the newest bodyguard and she was eying the kids ass without any hint of shame.

Fixing Shinji's collar, Miya tenderly touched his cheek, "Not at all, Shinji-kun. Just be quick and we'll begin cooking when you return." With another small platitude Shinji hurried off, and Miya flinched her head at him and the three heads vanished back down the hall in a mad dash. Gesturing further into the dwelling, "Now…guest…follow me please."

What he just saw, Kaji wasn't going to speculate. But that single moment of broken pleasantness was something he hoped he never saw again. He had faced death before and he hadn't been that unnerved. "Sorry for interrupting, you could have gone with Ikari-kun if you wanted. Just point me at Katsuragi and…" Kaji tried placating this woman. Just felt better to have her on his side and not against him. The hallway was well oiled, the art on the wall classical and inviting, all in all this seemed a great place to live. "Any openings here for new tenants?" he asked idly.

"Rooms are rented out on need to have basis, do you have need? And it is wrong of the proprietress to leave guests unattended. Shinji-kun will have an escort. As you are associated with Nerv, you know of the Second Phase yes? Cannot have him off alone while the Airheaded Glutton and the Faucet with Legs spar against one another," Miya floated down the hall and her tone was always pleasant despite her comments harshness.

Despite his higher brain functions telling him to not ask, Ryouji felt himself ask regardless, "So what is your little nickname for Ikari-kun?" Miya turned to him and he swore he saw an oni mask appear alongside her face and his heart skipped a beat. Waving his hands rapidly, "Ju-just a joke really. Things going good for them here though?"

Picking up several large sacks of rice, one after another, she shouldered four bags with ease. "I have one for him, yes. It is not for you my little fly on the wall," Miya quipped as she gently touched the hidden listening device Kaji always had on him. He hadn't turned it on, wasn't planning on it, but this woman knew? She knew about his dual nature?! How? WHEN? He couldn't remember seeing her before, so how did she know?! Following her in stunned silence to the kitchen, Kaji was not prepared to see Misato and another man talking? "H-hey, Katsuragi, c-came to ask about this volcano mission," Kaji found himself staring at this other man, dirty little thing.

"Oh, thanks Miya-san, I didn't mean to ask you for it but…" the man accepted the bags of rice and nearly fell over when dropped into his hands. Struggling to shoulder them, his knees nearly buckled, "Oh, Misato-san, if you're ever wanting a night out just say the word. And you are? Seo Kaoru, I solve problems for a price." Extending his hand out to Kaji, sweat already trickling down his forehead, he waited patiently.

Clamping down on the man's hand, Kaji gave it as fierce a squeeze as he could muster, Kaji didn't enjoy the fact the man did the same! "Kaji Ryouji, I work with Misa-chan here, old friends really. Need help with those bags, you look to be struggling," Ryouji offered more to challenge the man. Why was he sniffing around Misato when he came here to steal food?

"My yes, Misato-kun, if you'd like to have a relaxing evening with either of these men…I shall tend to the meal so you may do so without concern," Miya offered quite chipper. Filling the tea kettle with water she eyed all the room. Tossing a small bag of potatoes atop of Seo's pillar, "And you take these as well Scum, starch is needed."

Scum? Woman did not like men but was fine with Shinji, interesting if not a little creepy. "I'd be game for some food. Want to go out for a bite, catch up on old times?" Kaji would take the offer if given.

"I'm not in the mood today, for a restaurant or a drink, but I can tell you about the upcoming mission. Going to piss Asuka off to know she can't go on vacation, you want to tell her?" Misato did not take her eyes off the challenging Miya, what did Kaji step into?

With a small wave, his legs just about to go out, Seo parted with, "Well I'll take a rain check on that then. Hibiki and Hikari are waiting so I shouldn't waste to much time."

Taking the open chair, Kaji found a strange purple and white coffee cup and picked it up, "That guy seems a bit sketchy. Careful Katsuragi I think he has his eyes on you."

"I would put that down gently if you wish to stay for supper," Misato whispered to Kaji and flinched her head at the humming Miya. When he did, Misato pulled it away from him and put it next to another cup. "And you don't have to worry about Kaoru, he was here more to talk to Shinji-kun about some of this Sekirei madness…now about the mission…" she went into vague details.

Listening with growing disinterest, Kaji did pay attention to the events play out with growing confusion. This Izumo House was a strange place. Eventually Musubi and Tsukiumi…then Asuka joined them at the table and things derailed. Asuka and Tsukiumi bickered constantly, Musubi ate impossible amounts of food, and when Shinji got back it was a fight between Musubi and Tsukiumi to greet him? He was glad to leave…and he had one Seo Kaoru to investigate.

X-X

"Alright, that does it for the Dummy Plug, now for your physical. Get out and put your plugsuit on. Any physical changes that you've noticed?" Ritsuko asked with that hint of excitement that got Rei nervous. Deep in the bowels of Nerv, the bulky machinery churning and bubbling, the chorus of voices she had heard sounded different this time. The increasingly peculiar doctor had a camera out, thankfully off as Rei changed, and a glut of new things to test with.

Rei did what she was asked, but not with the same necessity as before. Now it was to cover for her growing mentality, to protect herself from people she was learning did not have any real care for her. But if she showed any disloyalty she would be replaced, and if that happened Akitsu would be abandoned again…well maybe not after today. "Nothing outside of what I reported. So am I allowed to have company?" Rei hardly asked anything, but this she had been adamant. She had been wanting Shinji to visit her roommate for a long time, but due to Ritsuko's treatment she had found her condition unstable. Now, now it was finally settling.

Turning the camera on and focusing on the physical training equipment, Ritsuko had her pen and pad at the ready. Rolling her chair over and plopping into it, "Yeah you can. Just if you start feeling effects from the gene therapy tell Ikari-kun to leave, assuming its him. Only person you ever talk to…kid is just fucking everybody it seems. Who knew…maybe I should…" The woman wandered off into a trail of unidentifiable words and shook her head clean.

Ah, so Ikari was having intercourse with that Musubi and others then? Good, that would aid Akitsu if he was indeed able to wing her, Rei did not mind if one person had multiple partners. Affection was affection, numbers didn't matter, why would they? And she would admit that after the therapy started unlocking the blocks in her mind, letting her think clearer, she started seeing all Shinji did for her without any cause, how he was nice to her, talked to her, cared about her…Rei's chest felt that strange constriction again. Yes, Ritsuko's little comment sent off a chain reaction in the angel-Sekirei-human-hybrid.

"Are the treatments over then?" Rei asked as she got onto the treadmill. Each treatment caused new changes in her, made her better, stronger, new abilities, and made the chorus of voices she synced with become discordant. What had once been unity became a wild storm of voices, Rei didn't care, didn't know what the sync process really was so just figured it was due to the different mental states she was in now. Starting to run, the speed increasing to Olympian levels, not even winded, "You are distracted today."

Fully in control of the treadmills speed, Ritsuko unsympathetically increased the speed even more, the machine nearly breaking. Jotting down the numbers only she could see, Ritsuko's smirk was mighty, "No, but I think you're genetic structure has gotten used to the process now. I've at least two more planned. This Tsukiumi and Kazehana are going to be next. So yeah I am distracted by the possibilities. And I think some of my side projects are starting to come to fruition! Ah, men are so easy to manipulate, so so easy to lead by their…sorry. Alright, that is it for the treadmill, new record for you."

Leaping off the smoking training tool as Ritsuko just shut it off and she had to jump or crash into the handlebar, Rei did not show her anger at that. This woman only cared about herself, Rei learned, and her strange actions were nowhere near as obtuse or hidden as she expected. Rei had heard and seen enough to know she was sleeping with the Commander, enticing Kaji Ryouji, and Akitsu said she saw Ritsuko at the MBI headquarters at least once before Akitsu was thrown out. But Rei had her connection to Eva, her want to protect Ikari, and the money was needed to keep her roommate fed and entertained.

Laying down under the weighted bar, who set the weight Rei wondered as Ritsuko couldn't lift it, "It is not my concern. I have overheard rumors of an upcoming mission?" Rei lifted the bar, it bent dangerously in the middle, with ease and started doing her reps. The increased physical strength and speed were enjoyed, but not necessary for daily life. The real boon from the first bought of genetic tampering was the destruction of the mental blocks that had been put upon her. Still, looking at Ikari at school got that sensation in her chest, Akitsu claimed it was the bond of Ashikabi and Sekirei calling her, but Rei wasn't a Sekirei so that was silly talk. Akitsu talked a lot of silly.

"Yeah, we have one potentially coming up, you won't participate in it. Unit-00 won't have the capabilities so no worries. Alright, your strength has topped out, lower than hers in both speed and strength but far beyond human abilities. Now the manipulation test," Ritsuko was ever the stern task mistress. Grabbing a small potted plant, a tulip, she set it down on a table and trained the camera one it. In her drool and bland tone, "Test subject has only shown limited capabilities in harnessing the psychic capabilities."

Well, Rei had her secrets and this was one of them. When this training had first started Rei had needed to clean sweat off her face, now it wasn't an issue. Finding the X on the ground, right in view of the camera, Rei nodded. Try to move the plant, try to make the leaves elongate and dance. Would help if Rei knew HOW to dance, but she did her best. Taxing her mind, similar to the Dummy Plug process, she felt herself reaching out mentally and the plant reacted. It grew a little, few inches, and it wiggled in a sine wave.

Pouting as she saw the results, Ritsuko accepted the result, "Guess this is all we can expect from this. Sample was unfinished from what I've gleamed. Oh well, that is all for today. You can take off, and if you do bring Ikari-kun over, just don't break him in half with that strength of yours. Oh and trim your nails, make him a clawing post otherwise. Shit I'm late, they'll be here and those two just love to complain." Taking the camera and her notes, Ritsuko didn't even bother waving or other platitudes Rei noticed people would show to those they at least pretended to care about.

"She is a…bitch?" Rei tried to remember the word Akitsu said best suited the detached woman. Akitsu knew more strange words, doubly so since Rei got a small television for the woman to watch while alone. Her apartment was slowly becoming very crowded with all the things she bought for Akitsu. Leaving Terminal Dogma in a different elevator than Ritsuko, Rei headed unbothered to the changing rooms, and unfortunately heard an unpleasant sound, voices. "Soryu and her Sekirei," Rei did not enjoy either of them.

Sitting on the bench, plugsuit on but unsealed, Asuka pointed a floppy hand at Tsukiumi, "Look I don't care! You can do whatever you want regarding that idiot. Just stop the whole 'I hate him' to his face and then 'I love him' in the room! It's maddening!" Upon hearing Rei slapping her feet louder, best to let them know sooner not later that they had company, Asuka pulled in on herself. "OH it's you, thought some pervert was peeking at me," Asuka still didn't relax.

"It not be proper form to just stridently barge into a life of one you are bound to by fate! Had ye not stolen my lips from him and I be his angel t'would be differ, lives would be entwined, now it be a more delicate manner," Tsukiumi almost sang angrily. Her strange talking mannerisms were hard for Rei to understand most of the time, so she opted to not care…easier. The Sekirei did stand between Rei and Asuka though, at least she played the bodyguard right.

Changing out of her plugsuit into her school uniform, Rei listened to the bickering and felt a headache growing. Her secret threatened to spill out, if she got frustrated or angry enough she could emit beams of energy from her pupils. She had learned it three days ago when Akitsu woke up without panty again, showing Rei a look right up main street…thankfully she only destroyed a glass. Taking her phone out, cleared for visitors she was going to make good on it! Texting the second person on her phone a quick, 'Could you make your visit, I have been cleared for it,' to Shinji she felt her breathing getting a little harsh. This was a Date right, Akitsu's study of all things human said when men and women met it was a date. Dates had a lot of strange things…things to expect.

All while Rei changed and sent off her vague demand to the lone male that genuinely cared about her, Asuka and Tsukiumi continued to whine at one another. Rei tried to tune it out, but they reached octaves and volumes so high and wide it was impossible. They were going on and on (and on and on…) about Tsukiumi coyly trying to entice a male all while not showing effection, Akitsu told Rei that was called being a Tsundere or Tsun and that many fans hated such traits, while Asuka literally was advocating fuck or get off the pot. Not Rei's place to comment.

As the albino tried to leave though, both women realized that they had a neutral judge to arbitrate for them! "So Ayanami, what do you think? You heard us right? This dripping old hag should just tell that idiot she likes him right? Who cares if he has…others, its not like a real relationship. Bondage isn't real affection. And I'm tired of hearing her cry about how 'he's off with the concubines again and not the wife'! YOU call yourself wife but you haven't even gotten him to talk to you alone yet!" Asuka screamed and was again face to face with the blond.

"Yon unaffiliated, ye know that emotions need be curated akin to a flower being grown, not some slab of rock to be chucked! And ye be one to talk of crying! Tis Kaji-sama off with thy harlot and not tending to the unfermented!" Tsukiumi had to lean forward to be nose to nose with Asuka, just as angry.

Ah, so Tsukiumi DID want to be with Ikari, not hard to fathom from the living conditions and the things Rei heard of dreams and the like. Knowing what she heard from Ritsuko, and her own thoughts on the matter, "Affection is a feeling, feelings have no physical restraint. If he is having intercourse with multiple people already, what is another? Words have meaning unique to the person." After she said that though, both women stopped their shoving match and just turned to gape at her…did she say something odd again? Well at least it was quite now, finishing her changing she got the confirmation from Shinji and repeated the need for 'you alone'. Did not want his Sekirei to attack Akitsu due to misunderstanding.

Free of the prattle of those two, Rei used her knowledge of the base to avoid other people. It took a little longer than normal, but it was worth it to avoid more unwanted conversation. Once out in the open air, she let loose and actually ran at a taxing pace to her apartment. She had a guest to prepare for, and that meant getting her freeloader to act. Moving at a pace that would make a human pause but a Sekirei could lap, Rei was at her apartment in minutes. Walking into the now very cold unit, Akitsu just exuded cold, "It was as expected. Akagi gave me the 'ok' and Ikari-kun will be here…you did not clean." Rei felt her eyes start to itch and want to blast.

"You're back earlier than expected," Akitsu's tone and emotional timber matched Rei's perfectly. Sitting on her futon blanket wrapped around her, which was supposed to be put up ages ago, covered in crumbs from snacks, she was playing a video game with some skill. Casting a side eye at Rei, "Did you get something for supper, I lost track of time and did not."

Where did that system come from? They did not have it when she left for tests so Akitsu had to have left at some point. Plopping down next to Akitsu, "Where did you acquire this device, when did you? And no, I did not get food. Though if this is a date, is not the male supposed to provide? You were supposed to have the futon put away by now." The mess didn't bother Rei, it was the breaking of promises that did. Akitsu said she wanted to stop lounging around the apartment as much, Rei fostered this, and yet here she sat playing a game?

"Delivered this morning," Akitsu moved back and forth with her character playing some RPG type game. The pair got lost in the odd colors and sounds for some time. After a while of leaning a little against Rei, "You feel different today, who was coming?"

As her mind was knocked from the digital bounty of colors, Rei stood up and checked her phone, oh yeah they didn't have much time now did they? "Ikari-kun is coming over to see you about your crest. You remember him correct, the Ashikabi with multiple Sekirei?" Rei took stock of her apartment. No undergarments strewn about, that was good enough right? "What were we supposed to do when hosting somebody?" Akitsu knew this stuff better than Rei as the girl read a bit while Rei was gone.

"If romantic in nature we bring him to the bedroom and he accosts us, if not we serve tea and sit until somebody interrupts," Akitsu shut off the console and ate more of the snacks she had about her.

A knock at the door got both to look at one another, Rei's hand went Akitsu's cold shoulder. "I shall get the door. I shall let you lead the meeting, you know this matter better than I," Rei got up and found herself smoothing her skirt, odd she never really cared about it before. Opening the door, if it was Shinji or not she'd not check, "Ikari-kun, you are…on time. Thank you. Enter, you brought something?" She saw a bag hanging on his wrists from the grocery store, "So this is as she said, you will be cooking here?"

"I-uh…well I could if you're hungry, this was more for…nevermind," Shinji just surrendered to Rei's comment. Doing as he was bidden, he entered and the door was nearly slammed behind him. Entering the den of the two peculiar Sekirei, Shinji nearly tripped when Rei collided with him, "I-uh-I-um…sorry…I didn't think…Ayanami-san why didn't you…"

Standing up, futon in her hands, Akitsu was as nude as when she was let out of her tube, "Oh yes, I forgot. It was warm under the blanket. He brought food? So this is a date, will it be with you, me, or both of us? Will he be winging you today?" The pale woman put her futon away and grabbed her discarded clothing.

"Winging you? Ayanami-san you're a Sekirei?" Shinji turned quickly and nearly fell backward as Rei was right behind him. He made to take a step back, but Akitsu had flanked him leaving him to bounce off of her. "I-I-I thought you wanted me to meet your friend…s-sorry for walking in on you. Since she let me in, I thought you were presentable."

Taking the bag from Shinji, she looked at it and nodded. With her new genetic tampering, Ritsuko said she needed more protean so meat was necessary. "She is presentable while in private. Akagi said you have been having sex with multiple women. I would have thought you'd be used to nudity. And I am…not a real Sekirei, but Akagi has been having me undergo transition. Akitsu as you can see has a crest but no Ashikabi, I am…unsure if I can be winged. But you know of Sekirei and their issue. Teach us," Rei lead Shinji to the bed, helped him sit, and Akitsu and she flanked him.

"You are very warm, it is enjoyable," Akitsu touched Shinji's cheek, took Rei's hand with her free one and had her replicate, "Is he not, more so now."

"She said what? I didn't think she kn-knew…an-anyway. I can t-try to tell you what I know. B-but if you're a Sekirei, Akitsu-san, shouldn't you know some of this?" Shinji stammered. He tried to move but with twin hands on his cheeks, arms behind him, and flanked on the sides, the lad was trapped.

Enjoying the sensation of flesh, it was quite warm, Rei leaned a little against him, this was…nice. Aside from the rare meals with the commander and Akitsu, Rei had so few positive interactions with people. Her life, she realized now, had been incredibly empty until she took in Akitsu and Ritsuko started playing pin-the-Sekirei-on-the-albino. But ever since he first met her, this boy had been trying (at least a little) to talk to her, to be there for her, and she ignored that. "She is a cast-off, an unnumbered. She was not trained or cared for…she is like me," Rei suddenly felt very unsure, did she make a mistake in saying that?

"You're not uncared for Ayanami-san, and you care for Akitsu-san here or you wouldn't let her live with you," Shinji actually turned his head to face her. It was so earnest and tender, the words laced through both women on the ratty mattress. "N-now…I'll tell you what I know," Shinji found the ground safer to look at.

So Shinji told them what he knew, not much more really than what Akitsu did know, but it confirmed things. After he spoke, he cooked them some food. They ate on the floor, listening to some television that Rei didn't fully understand. All she knew was her chest felt so tight, she didn't know what do to about it, and an hour after the food was cooked, Shinji's phone rang. "Sorry Miya-san, things are Aya-Rei-san's place went long. I'll be right home," hanging up his phone Shinji gathered the garbage…and a lot of what the two girls had let pile up as neither were big on cleaning, "I-I have to go…but I'll come back if either of you…"

"Yes/Please," both Rei and Akitsu said in unison and watched him leave. They didn't say anything, didn't need to as both were similar enough to know what the other was generally thinking. This was a start of something.

X-X

Notes

Sad note...my brother's dog Finnigan passed away, kidney issues. It put me off writing for a few days. I hardly got to see the dog, a golden doodle, but he was a big teddy bear, will miss him.

Chapter wise...wanted to add a bit of humor back into this. And just because Asuka winged Tsukiumi doesn't mean that I mean for them to be the pairing, I simply wanted to change the story a little to give me more meat to work with. Hope that doesn't upset to many people, a few of you were quite vocal about how you disliked that.

Later

Mercaba