Standard Disclaimer
Wow the world got itself in a crazy place real fast. Coronavirus/Covrid-19 and all that insanity. Working from home as my state is in lockdown, but hey I have more time to write at least. My nephew has a roommate and a dog now...strange times
X-X
On Angels' Wings
Chapter – 8
Pulling the car into the parking spot off the road, Misato's head fell back against the headrest and she sighed heavily. Oh how she wished she hadn't got the report about that stupid volcano now, it was becoming a nightmare and they were at least a month out from the actual operation! Form here, regulation there, and add in some good old fashioned sexism and this was just inching towards the too much effort point! If it wasn't a possible Angel, she would have thrown the towel in after the second condescending eye followed by asking her out for drinks. Should let the thing attack, do some damage, and see what they thought of her panicked ways. Though if it did attack, and one of the pilots got hurt in the operation…
"It'll be worth it, just keep telling yourself that, it'll be worth it," oh she pleaded it was. Getting out of the car, her back popped loudly from neck to tailbone, she shambled towards her home. Sounds were coming from the place as loudly as always, if they didn't have the large yard and dividing wall she bet they'd get complaints. Latching the outer gate securely, Misato's eyebrow raised as she saw a unique sight, a distracted Miya. Tapping the woman in the small of the back, "Something got you all worked up? Not used to you being anything but docile and tranquil."
Spinning around quickly, dropping into a fighting stance as best as her kimono would allow, Miya's eyes were hard and ready to strike. A moment later, recognition working its way through whatever was on her mind, Miya stood back up and bowed her head slightly. Hand collaring her throat, "Katsuragi-kun, I apologize for my absent mindedness. Just a minor issue is growing larger and I fear I might have to step in. A few things actually, one worse than the other. You are late, did you find your Kaji-san waiting?"
A week past Kaji's first and last visit, Miya was still needling Misato about it. Almost as if the woman knew she had a moment in the bath, a fond memory helping her work out some of life's stress. Shaking her head in denial, "He was at the base, but he was hitting on Ibuki-kun. Just dealing with an upcoming mission and it's being a real slog. But what issues are you having, Musubi pregnant or wanting even more of your time sparring?" When Miya pushed, Misato pushed back. Never could anybody say Misato would back down from a conflict. Listening to the banter from the house, Tsukiumi and Asuka were fighting again.
Putting the last of the laundry up to dry, her nagajuban alongside Shinji's undergarments, Miya grunted in frustration. "That woman is the primary issue. Another exchange between Ikari-kun, harsh words and blaming him further for their current states. He takes it hard, harder than I suspect most of you realize. Added Soryu-kun and her near constant fighting is starting to grate on my last nerves," she didn't bother looking at Misato, just at the source of those unintelligible shouts. Scooping up her broom, always work to do, she started to dust the path towards the entrance. Pausing so Misato could pass, "And you mentioned a mission, dangerous?"
"Don't know about the mission yet, of there will be one," she responded sullenly. Not liking that showing of closeness Miya was intoning with her little clothing play, Misato made a mental note. They had their agreement about Shinji, but that didn't mean they'd stop trying to push the envelope. Sitting on the steps to the house, taking her shoes off and just enjoying a good late afternoon sit, the sun was stunningly accentuating Miya's features. "Yeah, I see it too. Either Tsukiumi-kun hates Shin-chan or she loves him and is to pent up to do anything. If we locked them in a room together there would be blood…one way or the other," Misato heard the broom creak in Miya's hands. Those knuckles were so tight they nearly broke the bamboo hilt. Amazing how this woman that effortlessly defeated Tsukiumi and Musubi could be brought low with a little hint of virginal blood.
"That is the other issue, the arrangements of rooms. I do think we'll need to rearrange things soon. I heard…The Perverted Four Eye and Ikari-kun earlier today, she was pushing and nearly succeeded. Kusano-chan is too young to walk in on such things. Your thoughts? I shall not prevent it, but delicacy is something I do demand," Miya collected herself and finished her dusting to the entrance. The pair headed into the house and saw down in the common room a depressed Shinji sat dutifully doing his homework. Musubi had taken to training in the backyard, sparring with people when able or playing with Ku-chan when not.
Not wanting to admit Miya had a point, Misato shrugged a little. "Hey-ya Shin-chan, I'm home. Got a kiss for me?" she winked at him when he looked up. His blush made Misato feel good, he was still so innocent and fun to tease. Bypassing him though, she wanted to keep this little chat private, and went to the kitchen. Grabbing a can of Yebisu, she leaned against the counter, "What are you thinking? I can see what you're aiming at. I don't want to walk in on him giving it to anybody. That is one thing I could do without." After his first flash of her all those ages ago, she did her best to avoid repeat views but accidents happened. Boy was a real grower and not a shower for sure! Actually seeing the tool in action…Misato drank heavily.
Setting the broom away, Miya started gathering supplies for supper. Food, pots, and cutlery softly set down to not bother the rest of the home. "I would think one of those two would need to leave your room. I have my thoughts on who, but I wish to hear your comments as it impacts you as well," Miya stopped her motion for a moment and turned to the door. A very irate twitch fell over her, "If it isn't the Obscene Exhibitionist, might you not lay it on so thick for Ikari-kun? I fear you are doing nothing but try and entice him away from his studies."
"You're just jealous that I've finally found my darling Ashikabi and have stolen some of his time from you. Shin-chan really is manlier than I originally thought, much much more," Kazehana followed Misato's path and grabbed a can of brew. Popping the top, she clinked it against Misato's in a show of camaraderie. Sipping, she gazed over the can and asked, "If he needs a new room, he can move in with me. Darling needs some training and I'd gladly give it to him. Thinking I can make him into something that turns our little voyeur and bear cub into mush."
Slamming the knife down, the mask appearing at her side, Miya turned to Kazehana and Misato and quickly silence further teasing of that sort. Clearing her throat, "I shall be gathering him for today's supper preparation, he requested it. If you will be continuing with such talk and drinking…take it outside and leave us. Or I might find I might impose upon your gaming time." Not a threat, Miya didn't threaten she always followed through, she said her piece and floated out of the room.
Flinching her head towards the backyard, Misato grabbed two more cans and tossed one to Kazehana and the fled. It was odd, Misato didn't make friends THIS quick, but something about Kazehana was to similar to her own personality to dislike! Light hearted, funny, comfortable with her sexuality and body, oh and Kazehana demonstrated her ability to protect her Ashikabi with such devotion Misato was confident it wasn't a whim. "I cannot imagine her with a husband. Did they ever..." Misato asked. Kazehana and Miya had a past, that was clear, but to what degree was unknown as they both kept that secret close to chest.
"Couldn't tell you on a bet, but they did love one another. She was devastated, changed her…Shin-chan though is having a good effect on her. Just have to keep teasing her though, frigged woman starting to thaw," the woman bounced as she stopped to open the outer door. They could hear Musubi grunting and shouting, when they saw her it was clear why. Large bulbous plant parts jutted at her and tried to crush her, but Musubi countered and knocked them away. Training for both it seemed, Kusano did not like her little fear defeat that brought Kazehana into Shinji's group. Sitting down on edge, "Mind if we watch you two while Shin-chan and Miya make supper?"
Twiddling her fingers at Kusano who glared at Kazehana, Misato just snickered. Funny how Kusano realized the threat Kazehana posed and Musubi was her typical blithe ignorant self. Kazehana was a woman in love with her Ashikabi, and they all knew thanks to Musubi's constant vocal slips that things passed a particular line of intimacy. Shinji was open game for his Sekirei, and it was only time before things got…confrontational about who got him and when. Kusano saw the threat of the voluptuous Sekirei of the wind, Musubi was happy with a new battle-sister. "You can keep practicing, we're just relaxing until food," Misato plopped down next to her drinking buddy.
It took a few moments, and Musubi asking how Misato's day went and other probing questions, but eventually the younger Sekirei went back to practice. It scared Misato how strong Musubi was, and Kusano's mostly controllable skill with plants, not that she was afraid for herself but for anybody that threatened Shinji or her. Plant bulbs half her size were smashed to bits on Musubi's fists, the wind of each attack blew her hair about wildly. Starting her second drink, Misato noticed her partner cradling theirs as well with a whimsical look upon their face, "Yen for your thoughts?" Misato asked.
"Just amazed at how much more driven both of them are. Musubi-chan to protect what she found, Ku-chan to prove herself worthy. Their love for our Ashikabi is only matched for his for them. And soon…for all of us," Kazehana tittered huskily and licked her lips. Leaning over, hair pooling at her side, "Got me a little date planned for him. A 'get to know you' outing, think I'll drag Matsu out with us, get her out of that attic of hers. It's one thing to sense love…another to feel it, I'm excited."
Well that was more than just a few yen worth of thoughts, but Misato's brain was a little muddled thanks to no food and two cans in. Leaning back, watching the sunset, the reds and oranges bathing the city in a low flame, "I don't get you. Them I get…but not you. Musubi has the brain of a child. Innocent and pure. Kusano is young. Hell even Matsu is a shut in. I can see how they agree to this whole Ashikabi party. But you? You could have gone out, grabbed a millionaire by arm and just say 'you are mine' and had him. Yet you're alright with sharing MY Shin-chan with them?" Misato waved her hand at Musubi as she leapt away from a trio of lashing tendrils. A shut-in, a child, and a fight junky were one thing, a woman of Kazehana's physique and mentality…dubious.
"You're not a Sekirei, you cannot understand. An Ashikabi is something we all dream of, we all crave, and we all prey is as doting and loving as Shin-chan. I was worried at first, when I first felt myself drawn to him. I've…had my issues with men. And when I saw him throw himself into danger just to save Ku-chan here…that was enough. I saw what I needed, I knew…I knew the calling of my heart was not a lie. So to prevent an issue like with the princess…I took matters into my own hands," Kazehana rested her chin upon her upturned palm and just gazed wistfully off into the horizon. Thoughts and dreams of the future blossoming wonderfully in her mind.
Feeling her bladder start to press, Misato got up on unsteady legs and ventured in. Yes it was true, she wasn't a Sekirei so this bond between an Ashikabi and them was unknown. But from what Shinji said, it went both ways. Taking care of business, Misato opened the door to find herself face to face with a visage that she could imagine carved into an old European statue. All these Sekirei were beautiful, with their own charms, but Tsukiumi had a classical chill exquisiteness. It screamed high grade, expensive, and at the same time aloof and unapproachable. "Oh…you, what do you want?" Misato was not a fan of this woman. She had seen SOME of Tsukiumi's interactions with Shinji, but knowing it actually bothered Miya meant it went beyond simple levels.
"Be it not so simple a thought to know what one might need when standing before such a place?" Tsukiumi tried to come off haughty but only succeeded at embarrassed. Shifting from leg to leg, not making eye contact, the woman was pretty clear in what she needed. Trying to break past Misato and into the water closet, the Sekirei was not expecting Misato to put her hand out blocking her. Growling just a little, "Does a toll need be paid to allow me entrance to what be open for all?"
That! That better than you attitude! Misato remembered she wasn't intimidated by these things! If they wanted her dead, it would happen, so why be afraid of it! So many things in life could just end her small fragile existence, what was one more! "Yeah, you have to pay me a toll little lady. You want in, you answer me a question, do that and you're free to go. Fine? And don't bother lying, I've so many people trying to get shit past me, I'll see through you like your panties if you don't get in here fast enough," turning so put her back to one side of the door and her leg hard pressed against the other side.
"Then be quick and have your say so I might dispense with it!" Tsukiumi's leg vibrated quickly up and down. The whine in her voice hit a pitch near musical, yet the woman didn't push and didn't force. So despite it all, Tsukiumi was playing fair and earnest and not abusing her obvious power.
Knowing she could push now, how far she didn't know, Misato swiveled away from the door and put one finger to the nape of that swanlike neck. "Why are you so hard on Shin-chan? If what I hear about you Sekirei and your Ashikabi is true…he's hurting just as much as you. Yet you push and push, talk him down, make him feel like a fucking failure! He did his best! He did MORE than a human should, especially one that has the responsibilities on him as he does. Yet YOU are not at fault for the problem, it's only him? So…why are you so hard on him, be honest," Misato whispered it all delicately into Tsukiumi's ear, the smell coming off of the woman was a perfume of subtle floral bouquet.
"N-need I tell you?" Tsukiumi pulled back but found the wall the only thing to great here. Misato bore down further, pushing the Sekirei as easily as a human sized doll. Head drooping down, hair obscuring her eyes, "I doth love him to the point my heart may burst. What I felt before mine lips were stolen be still there, yet I be a stranger with no ties to pull. Dame Ashikabi claim I may try to be a lover a bride, yet without reason…without purchase I find myself leery of the attempt. To ask and be denied would shatter mine heart into dust lost to the wind. I tell you as you be as mother to him as he child to you," she sputtered a few times and Misato could hear the soft plink of water hitting the ground. Where it came from, Tsukiumi did have water control, she didn't ask.
More things she didn't expect for the day, who knew her little man was so sought after, Sekirei could sense something in people others didn't. It took Misato living with him to learn of Shinji's better qualities, what made her care for him so much…these Sekirei just felt it. Tapping Tsukiumi's cheek playfully, "Then tell him Tsun-kun, and don't do this abusive shit anymore…or I'll let Miya tear you apart. You taking your frustration out on him is done." With that she left Tsukiumi to whatever she had to do and went back outside. Supper would be ready soon, and after that it was her board game night with the man of the house…turned men of the house as Kagari joined them that night…that got Misato's heart a flutter. Still saw that guy as stupid attractive.
X-X
One thing Asuka didn't understand about these Japanese girls was their constant flip-flopping on ideals. They could like a thing, but be to 'embarrassed' to try it. Never see her to ashamed to do a thing she wanted, yet her companions were squealing like children about it! Whatever, they were better than the snobbish college students she was forced to interact with back in Germany. Those 'adults' were worse than her current classmates. When they thought they were superior they were friendly, after Asuka proved smarter…they suddenly got attitudes. Japan, well she was alpha here and all the girls accepted it.
"You're not really going to buy that are you Asuka-san?" a dainty flower of a girl named Shiori asked. Half a foot shorter than Asuka with close cropped black hair and dull eyes, the girl was a typical hanger-on. Pointing at Asuka's swimsuit, a spicy red and white stripped bikini, the girl was almost vibrating with a mixture of disbelief and excitement. Shiori's own 'fancy' suit was a bland white and blue single with a little flower attachment at the hip. Covering her mouth, "I could never wear something like that. Father would scold me!"
Pushing the hanger closer to her body, she posed with one arm as daringly as possible, Asuka loved the eyes on her. Her little outing now was a preparation gathering mission for the Okinawa trip coming up, finally something to be excited about. Hikari, Shiori, Takumi, and…her bodyguard were making the rounds to get some fancy clothing and swimsuits for this trip. They'd break for lunch pretty soon, and then it'd be back to that stupid Izumo House. Maybe she'd go with Hikari and hang at her place, but Tsukiumi being with them would make it awkward.
Hearing Shiori squeal a little, Asuka stopped putting on her little show. "You could if you actually wanted to, who cares what your father would think. He isn't going to be there is he?" Asuka chided. Nobody was going to tell her what she could or couldn't do, especially some worthless parental unit. Though looking at Shiori, girl couldn't pull off a bikini unless she padded something fierce. Her classmates, save a few, were thankfully lacking in the upper body department.
"Shaming oneself to appease those that one not know nor care for, that be a game for dubious natured folk," Tsukiumi quipped. Stupid top heavy blond was perusing the adult section somewhat studiously. Grabbing another one-piece, she rubbed her thumb and forefinger against the material and scowled, another not good enough. Continuing her never ending hunt for perfection, "Time does not stop as we dawdle here, is this the end or the start of our revelry?"
Sticking to Tsukiumi like a devoted disciple, Takumi nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I'm getting a little hungry. We could finish up here, grab some food, and maybe karaoke?" she tried not to look at Tsukiumi when she spoke, but it was evident. Tall and lanky, with stringy shoulder length dark brown hair, girl was easily one Asuka could mistake for a boy if viewed at the wrong angle. The moment Takumi saw Tsuki…well it was idol worship time.
Holding up her suit again, Asuka tried not to let the obvious attention shift get to her, "I've got what I want. The rest of you?" Stupid gargantuan woman had to just stand out so much more than everybody else. How could Tsukiumi not be the center of attention? With her odd clothing, stupid way of talking, physical presence, and it was always damp around her! Woman was made for forming crowds of gawkers and perverts! And Asuka was stuck with her, bodyguard…ha! Asuka was perfectly find defending herself.
"Yeah, I guess I can grab this one. Not my best color, but the best they can do. Just wish I could fill one out like you could," Hikari smiled a bit. Girl was the smartest of the lot, always would be it seemed to Asuka. It was a one-piece as well, but it had a few cut out sections and the lime green accentuated Hikari's freckles well. Getting in the short line to pay, "Did you find everything alright, Tsukiumi-san? I doubt we have many shops that c-can accommodate you."
Setting the latest in the myriad of options she sampled, Tsukiumi shook her head slowly. Getting in line behind Asuka, "Twas not my intent to purchase today, merely to sample the sights to get the minds river to unblock and flow. Nothing here has the vision I wish to convey to him. Something to ensnare mind and soul while triggering the body's flame." Hoisting her obscene bust up higher, the Sekirei crossed her arms and her face took on a far off quality, going deep into her mind.
"Y-you have a guy you like and you want to show off to him? I-is that it? What type of guy do you like! Are you dating?" Shiori gasped, girl loved gossip. Asuka noticed how Takumi was also paying rapt attention, great now they were talking about this shit again! She got enough of this at the apartment, the never ending fixation on that goober! Thankfully Tsukiumi had toned it down the last two days, after their last fight something changed in the water faucet.
Tugging on her hair, something Asuka noticed the giant did when nervous, Tsukiumi's heel clicked a few times. With eyes on her, the elegance almost increased as she held her head high, "I be hunting an elusive prey that others covet, but I shall bring them low once mine prey be caught. And nere they eve know that which they once thought theirs, be mine." Her clenched fist and cold steely eyes wafted over the smaller girls as she smirked just a little.
Rolling her eyes and tossing her paycard at the bored college girl running the register, Asuka shoved the primadona away from her. The longer Tsukiumi stood next to her the clammier and moister she felt, needed a dehumidifier whenever she was with this woman. "What she's saying is, guy she wants is seeing other people. And she's planning to steal him from them, if she could ever actually talk to him without making a scene would be a start," Asuka loved to see the wind taken out of Tsukiumi's sails! She wasn't bad, just Asuka didn't want let alone need a permanent shadow! Let alone one that was taller…prettier…stronger…had impossible powers…fine Asuka was intimidated by Tsukiumi, afraid of her.
"That is so cool! Do you have a picture of him? I'd love to see the type of guy that can get YOUR attention," Takumi gushed. Pulling out just enough cash to pay her purchase, the girl crinkled the bag as she cradled it against herself. Keeping in step with the others, only Shiori had to pay now, they cluttered around Tsukiumi with high expectations. What was the hunk a model like this foreign vision fancied, one that other women had and she was going to steal? My-my that HAD to be a big and handsome adult right? Asuka nearly snorted at the envisioned disappointed looks they would have when they saw that goober!
Without a moment's hesitation, Tsukiumi drew out her phone and showed a picture she had. Her face a breaking mask of repressed joy and a smidge of apprehension. "Twas taken as we sparred on yester-eve. You can see that one being planted amid the cabbage and carrots by a rival most insipid!" Tsukiumi had no shame in her voice or posture. Proud, she was proud of that picture? It was something Katsuragi took during their three-times-weekly training sessions! Just Tsukiumi with Shinji in a headlock as Musubi hip checked Asuka into some mud!
"T-that is Ikari-kun, you…you said he wasn't actually seeing that girl," Hikari turned from Tsukiumi's photo to Asuka. Opening the door as a smiling Shiori joined them in the new swimsuit club, the girls plus guardian hit the streets. Taking a few steps away from the 'adult' in the group, Hikari had an unreadable expression on her face, "And the guy you like is Ikari-kun? I would have thought…I mean you're so pretty and almost in your twenties!"
Joining in on the unbelieving train, Takumi nodded along, "Yeah, you could have anybody! Why go for a boring guy like that. If he wasn't a pilot, I doubt anybody would even know his name." Takumi gauged the group for acceptance of her statement, when Hikari and Tsukiumi didn't immediately do so she back down just a little, her bag no longer in both hands.
Standing taller, chest pushed just a little forward, Tsuki just shook clicked her tongue, "Ye not know quality of body be all you see. A whole of a soul is better than a fancy wrapper. And if he never controlled his beast of metal and monster, he'd still be a hero to those he favors. For he is the one my heart yearns, yet I be stuck with this one due to her quick…twas that necessary!" Tsukiumi grabbed her head as Asuka smacked the back of it.
"You talk too much for a guardian. They asked, you answered. Now can we get some food? I don't want to wait for that freak landlady or that idiot to make me food," Asuka's hand quivered with pain. She had smacked the back of that Sekirei's head as hard as she could and the damn thing barely registered it while Asuka's hand throbbed! Just how strong were those things! One thing she was grateful for, since she was forced into this madness, was Tsukiumi wasn't some weak chaff. If she had to suffer this stupid battle royal, she didn't want to have the weakest of the lot! Pointing at a nice café not too far off, "How about that place? I'll cover you since you're suit cost so much." Asuka had seen Takumi worry as they approached, might as well be charitable for the girl.
The charity was accepted and the quartet plus one quickly got seated, didn't hurt that the Maitre D' couldn't take his eyes off Tsuki. Asuka faked an emergency call to Kaji, got a lot of looks from the others and the patrons, but she didn't care. Take what you want, aim for it and don't let up! Sadly after the meal ended abruptly when Shiori got a text from her mother and Hikari forgot she had to get groceries for supper. Takumi hinted at tailing Asuka and Tsukiumi, but that was curtailed by a 'we have to hit Nerv' and the fan club was disbanded.
"Did ye need to crush that one's spirits like a sparrow's egg beneath your feet?" Tsukiumi asked after they parted ways. Walking just fast enough to make Asuka hustle, eyes on the concrete, a vexed expression marring those good looks.
Throwing her hands in the air, Asuka scoffed, "What did you want her throwing herself at you or something? Good for you ego to know somebody actually wants you around, values your opinion, and thinks you could do better than that Idiot?" Asuka just didn't understand Tsukiumi, then again she didn't really try. This whole mess, she was just waiting for it to be over, it couldn't last much longer right?
Walking backwards in front of Asuka, Tsukiumi bent forward and scowled harshly. In that tone Asuka knew was about to start a fight, "I be not ye, have not your insatiable love of adulation of others. Cruelty for the sake of it be not a thing I strive for. Honor, duty, and my goals be what drive me ever forward. What be YOUR cause for wishing that one pain?" The sound of the crowd was getting louder, people were rushing past them.
"No reason, but I could stand for some alone time. She isn't my favorite person, more of a clinger who just wants to see you. So unless you have a reason to keep her leash, why procrastinate things!" Asuka felt that anger growing. Stupid bimbo just had to be right about everything, all haughty and better than everybody! Trying to make HER feel bad about things, Asuka wasn't having it. Lurching forward complements of a shoulder check, into Tsukiumi's arms, Asuka took stock of the state of things. "What is going on now?" she groaned.
Pointing at the massing shoppers, "Mayhap another fight, the unknowing do think they be naught but stage play for titilation." Already moving towards the gathering, tugging on Asuka to follow, girl couldn't be more telling if she had her thoughts broadcast.
Pulling her phone out and showing the 'friend locator', Asuka stifled a laugh when she handed it over. Nearly breaking her mask, "That Idiot isn't even…wait he is here? Why would he be here?" Maybe she should have viewed the damn thing before thinking Shinji wouldn't be in the shopping district on a Saturday afternoon. The reluctance to run gone, she had to insure her fellow pilot wasn't hurt or worse, she tried to yank her phone back but found it impossible, "What, that is my phone, can I get it back?"
Cradling the device into her sizable cushions, Tsukiumi stutter stepped but didn't fall, "The way to know his location, to follow him as a bird on a wing, might you…share this with me? I make to end my ways of being outside his circle and aim to make my own. Ye be right in the time to act foolish has past. Katsuragi doth hint she be growing weary of my glibness and that Miya be as well. If this be my path I shall walk it, for good or ill." Reluctantly she did hand the phone over as the got to the ring of people.
"G-good, tired if hearing one thing in private and other public," Asuka was floored. She'd actually never heard Tsukiumi confess such a thing, actually acknowledging a flaw? That was a step, a powerful step, and Asuka wasn't sure how to take that. Getting to the ring, they saw it was a fight…fight being a rather one sided comment. "Ok, why is he out with those two? I thought the computer chick was a shut-in, and how can she walk around so…so…" Asuka couldn't believe it.
In the center of the ring of chanting barbarians were three Sekirei and two Ashikabi, oddly enough the second Ashikabi was female with a male Sekirei! "You ruined our date little girl. Was going to show these two the finer sensual arts after a nice afternoon of taunting and teasing. But you had to go and tear her dress, now we have to go home…that DEMANDS punishment!" Kazehana bellowed. Matsu was being held up by an overly concerned looking Idiot, a large ripe down her side showed off a whole lot of leg.
"This is stupid, lets go, it isn't even a fight! That slut is just toying with…" but Asuka stopped when she saw it. The look of utter and pure jealousy and envy on Tsukiumi's face, the want to be over by Shinji, but knowing she couldn't. It was written all over the Sekirei's face, but a moment later it was back behind the mask she kept up. Patting Tsukiumi's back, "You ready to go, you know they won't lose. And…if we hurry we can be home to great them, and both those girls will need to tend to things and leave him alone…" Maybe she should try helping Tsukiumi instead of bitching at her, who knew how long this mess would go on. Shouldn't go to long, but no reason to make every day hard for the woman…
That face. That pained expression…it was haunting and Asuka felt a piece of it. Was it the Ashikabi/Sekirei connection, natural ability to relate, or maybe Asuka wanted to grow as well…she found herself wanting to help the woman now. Leading, dragging, Tsukiumi away from the fight, the cheering going wild, the pair were indeed home to great them, but also so was Musubi and Kusano.
X-X
"Are you sure you want to do this today? I mean it likely will be pretty boring. They need help cleaning and I'm going to do some basic cooking lessons," Shinji asked. Holding Musubi's hand, he wasn't doing a very good job of leading Musubi to depart. He didn't want her too, but he didn't want her bored either. A delicate balance of wanting to please others and to enjoy their time as well. Hoisting up a bag of cleaners and another of random food items, he waggled it hoping to get a response.
He did, Musubi was always easy to please, and found just about everything enjoyable. Waving back and forth, taking Shinji along for the ride as her strength seemed to go up with her affection, she snagged the bags from his free hand and winked. "After your fight yesterday, and the ones we've been seeing, can't leave you alone! Matsu-san said some lady would drag you off and have her way with you if I did!" Musubi had no hint of joking in her voice. Someday the girl might learn sarcasm or jokes, it was not this day. Scrunching up her nose as the smell of the district ramped up the olfactory assault, "It smells so bad here. Why does Ayanami-san live here?"
Recognizing the rhythmic clanging of construction, and feeling the onset of a small headache from smell and auditory abuse, Shinji wondered that as well. Reaffirming his grip on that gloved hand, "I couldn't tell you. It doesn't feel safe here. But if she's becoming like you, and she has her own Sekirei, I doubt she needs to worry about safety." Safety was a primary concern right now, only it was all his Sekirei and Misato worried about his. Even Kagari was asking him to take some mace or something just in case. Rare for the older guy to comment on such, Kagari was quickly becoming something of a role model for Shinji.
"Oh yeah you did say she was…becoming one? That doesn't sound normal, we should ask the professor about it. Either way, if they're both Sekirei, couldn't we have them move into the Izumo House with us?" Musubi kicked a stone on the walk. The thing skipped along the ground, bounced off a light post, bent the post, and then dropped into a sewer grate. Snuggling up close, "I wonder if they'll have to be winged for this phase to end."
Winging…kissing…kissing either of those two? His previous crush on Rei sprung to life, "I hope not. Ayanami-san doesn't know many people and I think she said Akitsu-san was an unnumbered. So I doubt the rules apply to them." His previous meeting with the two had been so awkward, yet fun, that he wasn't overly worried about this meeting. Still, who wore chains and a very revealing low-cut dress as standard clothing? Bobbing his head at the approaching apartment, "That is the one, fourth floor." He just hoped Akitsu had clothing on this time!
Reluctantly letting go of his hand, Musubi played her role as bodyguard perfectly. Getting to the apartment first and scanning inside for any threats, human or Sekirei. Holding the door open, "I hope they can! Having an Ashikabi-sama like you is the best thing, so if they could have one as well even better! Having more sisters, having more sparring partners, what could be better?" Moment he was in the apartment she was back on his side. It was a duel served action, one to keep him close in case of attack, and because they both enjoyed it.
"Well if they can, I hope it's somebody that they call out to, or at least compatible with," Shinji leaned against Musubi. He was more than just compatible with his Sekirei, he loved them, and they were family now. Matsu and Kazehana's little date yesterday proved the overly sexual and newest Sekirei was going to fit in just fine. His heart might not be able to take all the teasing, and boy did she lay it on super thick, but the quiet moments were a delicious sauce on a perfect dessert. And he saw how serious she took her role as his Sekirei during that fight…poor girl lost her but had only herself to blame for attacking.
Pinching her nose, the bags bouncing off her face, Musubi vaulted up the stairs dragging the flagging boy along with her. "You should try! With how they've invited you before, maybe you are their Ashikabi-sama! OH! Have you and Matsu-san finally had se," hand over mouth, Shinji stopped that little statement. Musubi really had no shame, no sense of privacy, and acted as if everybody was the same.
Leaning in close, her hair was strawberry scented today, "Remember what we spoke of last time you said that? Back at the grocery store, no sex talk in public alright? A-and if-if you must k-know…we haven't got t-that far…but we have t-touched." A mild word for it, but yes the boundary was nearly smashed there, Matsu was pushing hard and fast. Only thing that prevented it last time was she was sensitive and a pile of mush after she climaxed…when she got her strength back and experimented with some lubricant and her own assets, the night was nearly over and Misato called him down to bed.
Matsu really liked experiments, and Shinji liked experimenting and being experimented on…it was fun for both of them.
"Oh, Matsu-san said the next time I made a mistake like this you'll have to punish me. She said you'd take me over your knee, hike my obi up and spank me. Are you going to…to do that now or back home?" Musubi took that moment to look alluring and dare Shinji think expectant?
Before Shinji could comment on the rightness or wrongness of physical punishment (either consensual or otherwise), the door to Ayanami's apartment opened. "Such matters are best suited for private places. My apartment doesn't show it, but others do live here," Rei just had to be waiting and overheard the whole thing.
Red faced from shame and misunderstanding, Shinji stammered for a moment then just hung his head low. It was what it was now. Ayanami likely thought him a pervert or something! "H-hello Ayanami-san, you don't mind if Musubi-chan is with me today do you? She might know a thing or two about your situation that I don't. And…she really wanted to meet both of you," Shinji gestured to Musubi who was literally bouncing with excitement.
"Hi! You're the pseudo-Sekirei right? The one that pilots with Shinji-sama! I'm Musubi, pleased to meet you!" Musubi was at Rei's side in moments, hand extended. Musubi's smile set Shinji's off, and Rei's confusion sent Shinji over the edge with a laugh.
Putting a hand on Musubi's shoulder, pulling her away from Rei, "Sorry about that, she gets excited at meeting new people. A-and I've spoken about you enough around her that she's been anxious to meet you." Taking the bags from Musubi who just had to shake Rei's hand, Shinji hoped the door wasn't slammed in their faces.
Once her hand was hers again, Rei pointed inside her place and took a step back for them. Eyes on Shinji, just a little color in her cheeks, "It is fine. As you mentioned being attacked it is only sensible you have your protection. Akitsu, are you dressed this time?" Rei lead the charge into the dirty apartment. More food containers, boxes from online ordering companies, and just more feeling of 'life' was in this place. Each time Shinji visited since Akitsu arrived it was more an apartment and less a shoebox.
"Yeah, we had a fight yesterday while doing some shopping, have you two got into any? W-with your wing statuses being unique…wouldn't know if people would try and wing you," Shinji followed the girls into the communal room. Now he'd lie and say if he hadn't entered with his eyes on the ceiling just in case, peeking down however he found Akitsu was in a folding chair used for camping and fully clothed. Letting out his held breath, those chains did much to accentuate the fact that nearly all Sekirei were bombastic, he offered, "Musubi-chan, this is Akitsu-san, Akitsu-san this is Musubi-chan."
Turning off the television, the remote falling into the nylon mesh cup holder on the blue folding chair, Akitsu nodded at both new arrivals. "We only have the bed and the one chair in this room. Floor or I can let one of you have this?" Akitsu was already standing when Shinji waved his hands and sat down.
"Your place is different than ours, you should move in to Izumo House! It's quieter, cleaner, and you can be near us! I bet Landlady-san would approve easily!" Musubi plopped right down on the bed next to Rei. That open nature really did waft onto others, sometimes she was to open, but right now in this room of introverts Musubi was a lighthouse of positivity.
Picking up the bags, Rei started sorting them out, "I cannot do that. The commander has set this as my home. Unless somebody on command staff changes it, this will be our dwelling. You brought both chicken and beef?" Pulling out the containers, she handed the beef over to Akitsu who quickly alternated between the package and Shinji.
"Y-yeah, last time you both seemed to like the other better. T-thought I'd teach both of you a simple dish for each…is something…" Shinji's eye went wide. Legs spread open facing him, Akitsu forgot a very special piece of clothing. Falling backward, kicking the bag of cleaning supplies over, Shinji's heart needed a moment to restart. After a few moments of heavy breathing, "A-Akitsu-san…you forgot…forgot…"
Getting off the bed and going to the bathroom, Rei came back with what Akitsu forgot. "Remember, these are needed when we have guests. Ikari-kun you may look now," Rei informed the boy, hovering over him, she offered her hand to help. When he took it, she pulled him not up to sit but right off the ground. Ok, Rei took several levels in strength since they last…touched. Good, because a smack from her now might take her head off. Still holding his hand, she gazed down at it, "You mentioned winging when you got here, we have not had anybody attempt such."
Joining Rei in making a triangle out of the three, Akitsu was not letting her roommate get any advantage over her. "Yes, that is true. You may try with her if you like. I am broken so it will not matter," she held the package of meat like a talisman to her chest. Had nobody ever done anything nice for these two women?! It was just a meal to be made specifically for her yet the woman was acting as if he had done a great deed!
"M-Maybe another time. How about we start cooking, I'll call Misato about making a visit here…betting you get moved out before she gets to the third floor. That is, if-if you two WANT to move out of here," Shinji sagely got out of close proximity before Musubi made it into a square. He had seen her moving from the corner of his eye and knew she was on the prowl. Not jealous, Musubi didn't get jealous, but she didn't want to be left out! So if those two were close, just like Kusano, Musubi was going to put herself into the mix or make herself known. "W-who wants to learn first…teach you both separately. Musubi-chan you want to talk with the other?" Shinji inched further towards the kitchen.
Grabbing Rei's hands again, Musubi hand her favorite for the moment, "You can show me your powers! I'll show you mine too if you want!" Whirlwind Musubi was leading the pensive girl in a makeshift showing of abilities and always positive and supportive, if only a little to exuberant.
On the other side of the dividing wall, a whole half foot thick so they could still hear Musubi's chipper voice, Shinji shrugged with a grin. "She has a way about her. Hope she isn't to much for you right now, Musubi-chan can infect you with her positivity. She infected me for sure. And…you're not broken Akitsu-san, you're how you're supposed to be. If that means you don't have an Ashikabi then you don't. Now would you like to try cooking or just watch me do it?" Shinji couldn't help but correct. Musubi did it to him, helped him see the better in people, see that not only was he not the sum of his failures but neither was anybody else! Just because some accident caused…whatever it was to mess up Akitsu's winging, didn't change her.
"Teach me, practical experience trumps visual. Though you may have to guide my hands," Akitsu took Shinji's hand and wrapped it around her wrists. Gods her pulse was thumping, beating so hard and fast that Shinji couldn't believe it! With how dispassionate and low key her speaking, Shinji thought he hardly registered on her mind, added to it she didn't bat an eye at his seeing her sans panty. Pulling him towards the stove, "Is that acceptable? You have warm hands."
Just like Rei, Shinji realized, this girl was almost just like Rei! Maybe a little more brazen with actions and forgetting things. But they both had that blink and you miss it emotion, buried beneath the surface, not expecting anybody to care for them. It was sad, very sad. He would have to have Misato visit this place for sure, if only to show them that people DO care. Hoping his own heart wasn't beating as hard as Akitsu still was, Shinji started the cooking lesson.
Quick study, Shinji expected no less at this point, Akitsu went step by step along the plan. Whenever Shinji's grip started to lesson she'd simply say 'tighter' and he'd reaffirm it. But that meant Shinji had to stand close, very close, and she moved a bit as she went about her actions. Had a bit of an adverse effect on the poor boy. "Your erection, do you require it to be tended to? The learning aids I have state women are obligated to tend to such things if they cause it. But that means you find me attractive as well, yes?" Akitsu said over her shoulder.
"Wait, Shinji-sama has a what? Matsu-san said it's a girlfriend's duty to tend to her significant other if they need it!" Musubi just had hear that part. Coming into the kitchen, Rei following behind her and showing some rips and tears on her clothing. Not feeling the mood, Musubi turned to the others, "Did you want to try being winged? If you can be winged by him, you can join us in having sex! Making love to Shinji-sama is so nice…not even the touching part, just being with him!"
That was when it went dark. Pitch black, Shinji just stood there…or was he standing there? No, he had to have fainted! "Oh Kami-sama I fainted from that! First time this has happened…Musubi-chan just can't ask that of girls! It's rude…I mean…yeah both of them are cute…attractive…whatever…but to ask that! When I wake up, just say it is just a reaction and let it go," Shinji muttered…then felt a body against his. "This…IS a dream right?"
"No, this is an emergency. We will go to Nerv and verify things. Grab hold of the person behind you and I will lead us out into the light," Rei said as she started walking. Yup, death would have been better at that moment, but Shinji reached out…grabbed Musubi's chest on accident then her hand. Stupid power outage, strange, they never happed back at the Izumo House.
X-X
"Will that be all Asama-san?" a smiling butcher asked. Slapping wrapped packages of various meats on the counter, he whipped his messy hands off on his smock. Always polite, always quick, and always pleasant to deal with, Toyiama was patient with his customer. Late morning shoppers were all moving about, no line, so he indulged a little in bonding with a customer, "Looks like you've increased you purchases again, another tenant?"
Pulling her wallet out of her purse, Miya used it to cover her mouth and hide the fact she wasn't smiling. She like Toyiama, he never probed on things and was just being polite. But today she was in a state she oh so rarely found herself in, nervous. "We maybe. One of our tenants has started hinting at two young maidens that might be in need of some aid. And you know it is better to be over than under stocked. Remember the fatty tuna sale?" Miya warned. A year ago, a sale on fatty tuna ended with many a bruised knuckle over the fight for fish.
Laughing uneasily, Toyiama rang up the purchase with a gaze that wouldn't sit on anything, "Yeah, that was a mistake. But you didn't miss out on that sale if memory serves, Asama-san. Did anything spoil during the power outage yesterday? To think we'd be attacked during it! I've a generator keep the food from spoiling, but I was beside myself. Wife and kids were panicked…but them pilots saved us again. Like to buy'm a beer." Slapping his belly, it jiggled a little compliments of a few to many reward beers.
"What?" Miya said dumbly as a pulse went through her. Dropping her wallet, a few coins spilled out but she made no effort to reclaim them. Let them be some child's lucky find. That thing attacked them, attacked while she was safe and secure in Izumo Inn with Matsu's updates. They didn't even notice a problem until it was over. Standing up and fixing her shifted kimono, "Sorry about that." She set the payment down.
Chuckling just a little, the kind of laugh that only comes from confusion, Toyiama made change and handed the receipt. "Don't worry about it Asama-san, everybody gets 'fraid of those giants. Specially when they actually get into the city! Take care now, and you tell that Ikari-kun that he was right about adding a little paprika to the broth. That kid can cook," he recovered from his flub and pushed the packages over to her.
Sliding the meats into her shopping bag, which contained some vegetables and a bag of rice as well, "I shall. Thank you as always." With a slight bending of her head, she gathered her rather sizable bag and left. Other shoppers boggled at the ease she carried her parcel, she typically tried to mask the ease of her task but today she had other worries. Making her way back home, she saw the legs of that monster jutting out, destroying the illusion that Tokyo-3 was safe. Danger, he had been put into danger, and one that Matsu said was possibly man-made! "I…dislike this feeling," Miya kept her head down in thought as she walked.
Matsu kept up her hacking, Miya suspected Matsu would degenerate into pure perversion if not for her computer usage. What they gathered from Nerv was telling, but things were lacking leaving only hints and speculation. It was Nerv's little partner Seele that Matsu needed to focus on…but Miya found Matsu's focus shifted. It was MBI's insipid Sekirei Plan that was causing a schism in focus, that and Matsu's rather timid reaction to her Ashikabi. Thank the maker for that, if Matsu was as bold in person as she tried getting others to be it would be a very different home.
"Both plans must end. They are danger for dangers sake, I have stayed idle to long," Miya mumbled. Her mind actively avoided thinking about the true issue she was bothered with, so she kept pushing those other paths to keep herself distracted. If what glimmers of conspiracy from Nerv were true, these monsters were part of some grand design. Summoned by human orchestrators, that if removed would end the threat. Give Miya the target and she'd take her blade out of its retirement. The MBI plan she knew was the cause of a sick brain, but Minaka had defenses and couldn't just be removed.
Getting home, she stood outside the gate and listened to the house breath. After those horrid creatures attacked, there was always a few days of recovery for the world. As such, she set her bag down, cupped her hand to her ear and listened to the talking. It was…Tsukiumi and Shinji. Upon hearing them talk, her heart lurched and her legs went tight. Fear, she feared for him in a way she only feared once before. Not the same feeling, this wasn't Takehito but it was something she was not fully prepared for.
"I doth know I haft been unduly cruel to ye since our destined time twas bitterly taken. The bond we should have shared stolen by well-intentioned but unnecessary efforts. To that I offer my most heart filled apologies. But I shant lie, mine heart still quivers when my eyes set upon ye. Am I alone in this curse?" Tsukiumi's rich voice wafted over the wall and the conviction of it pulled a gasp from Miya.
Peeking through the slats of the wooden gate, Miya saw a casually dressed Shinji standing stock still. It took a few moments for the realization of what he was hearing was real, and he slowly reached outward. Tsukiumi quickly grabbed that hand, that hand…Miya looked down at her own hands. "I won't lie either, yes. I don't want to be upset at A-Asuka-san for her actions, she had her reason. But…I still feel something missing when I see you. It must sound awfully selfish or greedy of me to say, but I do. Can't really explain it…but what can we do though?" his emotion was open for all to hear, but only Miya and Tsukiumi did.
"As we cannot be bound as Ashikabi and Sekirei, I propose we follow a different path. That of…h-husband and wife! Before we were forced apart I was ready to give mine heart to you fully and openly. If ye were to take me as your Sekirei, I believe the same be for your own heart. Is not that the same pledge?" Tsukiumi moved in closer to Shinji, nearly atop him. Her hands wrapped around both of his now, eyes going half laden inching closer.
Making ruckus in opening the door, slamming her bag against it, Miya didn't want to see what she was about to. Had no qualms with it in private, but seeing it reminded her of her own husband and the bitterness took hold. And now…seeing Shinji about to…she wasn't prepared for that. "Would one of you please aid me with this?" she wasn't shocked to see they separated once she got the door open. What came of their confession, well that was for them in private. Emotions were strange things, say a thing and for the moment you believe anything only for time to remind you of other realities.
"Certainly, I have much to make amends for, not just you were the brunt of my frustrations," Tsukiumi ran the back of her hand against Shinji's cheek and hustled to get the bag. When she made to grab the parcel, Tsukiumi found her wrists captured by Miya who kept her docile expression on. Fear fell upon the younger Sekirei, her freedom was at Miya's whim. "Ma'am?" she whispered.
Smiling gently at Shinji, she bent down to 'help' Tsukiumi gather the bag. Barely moving her lips, silent as the grave, "The plan is for only one Ashikabi to remain, will you take that risk?" Already she had plans to maybe step in, the world didn't need this madness, but if this woman had not the conviction she'd end this romance before it began. Standing back up, letting Tsukiumi go, she saw the recognition on her face.
Hustling towards the kitchen, she stopped at the door to turn back to the confused lad, Tsukiumi nodded to herself. "We shall have time to discuss this further later, if your heart still be as mine," Tsuki took a moment to waft her gaze to Miya and then hurried off.
Before Shinji could recover, Miya found herself acting against her minds better judgment. Closing the gap neigh instantly, she recaptured the hand Tsukiumi held, gently as to not crush the tiny human bones. He was soft, gentle, and warm…just how she imagined their child would be. Sniffing hard, "I did not disrupt you two did I? And shouldn't you be taking care of yourself and relaxing today? With most of the power out still, I would think you'd be not getting into trouble." Leading him into the home, she stayed close, based in the mellow smell, and the knowledge he was safe.
"No, no you didn't. J-just talking with Tsukiumi-san. And I feel a bit restless really. Everybody is off doing something, and I just…feel like I'd be bothering them right now," Shinji didn't fight her off. Much to her duel delight and torment he moved in closer and his grip was ever present. Walking at her pace, which she slowed, "Did you need help with anything?"
More and more she was doing a terribly stupid thing, she was letting this timid and tiny thing into her heart. It wasn't just a young man that had a very sad upbringing she wished to aid, he was becoming 'hers', she was imprinting and being imprinted on. "Not at the moment. Right now I find myself free of chores as well. Where are the others though, surely you would find one of them a pleasant distraction," Miya hoped not. When did this officially happen? When did her heart start to make this formal request of attachment?
"W-well, Musubi-chan is with Misato at Nerv. With all the f-fighting going on and with the power as it is, I felt worried if she went alone," Shinji confessed, he feared so much. Children shouldn't live with that constant fear. Fear for himself, for others, and for the world. Each child had to much put on them, but Miya only had access to one that showed any want for affection. Finding himself lead to the common room, he sat one of the chairs flanking the sitting Go board. "As for the others…Uzume asked to take Ku-chan to visit Mari-chan, Kazehana-san is forcing Matsu-chan to clean her room, and I don't know where Kagari-san is but I bet he's sleeping," he kept just as good of tabs on the residents as Miya did.
Eyes fluttering as it was a perfect situation, Miya was going to bask I it. "Then, as matron of the Izumo House, allow me to entertain you Ikari-sama until somebody more fitting can tend to you," she bowed in mock adulation. He laughed, as she knew he would, and it was music to her ears. Somewhere in the Inn, Asuka and Tsukiumi were doing their own business.
Always quick to compliment, not that he realized he was, "You're a gr-great companion Asama-san! I just don't want to waste your free time! You do so much work, I figure you'd like to d-do something you rather would than waste it on me." He still put a piece down after Miya did, the game was started.
"There is nothing right now that I would rather do, than spend time with you. And it is Miya, Shinji-kun, we are, if I may be so bold, a bit more than just landlady and tenant. O-or am I overstepping myself?" Miya was teleported back years in her mind then. That simple statement brought back memories of Takehito and her initial clumsiness. And despite she knew she was right, a fear grew that the silence she was hearing would remain. Just like when Takehito was taken, silence came, and it numbed her to many things, many thoughts, and possible happiness.
A few black Go pieces fell from his hand and clattered on the mostly naked board. "Y-ou rea-really think so? I thought…I thought I was just…looking to…to deeply. W-wanting to see what I hoped, s-so I tried not to…you know…expect anything," he quickly tried to gather his pieces back in his hand. His frantic grasping ended with a feather light pressing of Miya's finger to his wrist.
"Shinji," she said his name slowly and plainly, "You never need worry about me leaving you. You can count on me being here when you get home, with open arms. With how life has been to you, I understand your apprehension, I have my own about a great many things. Life has not been kind to either of us. But know this…I will stand beside you and your Sekirei until this terrible ordeal is behind us." Getting up, she fluttered over to the clearly emotional lad and did what she knew both needed, she hugged him.
Boy grasped onto her as if she were a life preserver, and Miya felt she was doing the same. It felt good to have a connection again, a tried and true one and not just flittering about it. After a good solid hug, both damaged souls laughed just a little and drew apart. Keeping hold of his hand, Miya drew him to the kitchen and the pair cooked. Not talking, just cooking and enjoying the moment.
"Don't you two look cozy today, something good happen?" Homura teased from the table. How long he was sitting there, only Homura knew and likely cared. Snacking on an apple, he gave Miya a subtle head nod.
Knowing Homura wouldn't ask for this unless necessary, "Be a dear Shinji-kun and go check the mail. I was expecting a few letters from MBI." Giving him a push from the shoulders, she went back to her cooking. Once she was positive he was gone, he hung about a few moments spying, then left. Turning the heat down low, she realized Shinji got her to cook her favorite dish, yes, this was right. But on to other matters, "Is something bothering you? Shinji-kun said you were sleeping, rough night? Might I suggest getting winged, Katsuragi-kun seems interested."
"I feel myself being drawn…my body feels strange. I'm hot all the time. Thought it was a fever, but I don't know anymore. What, what do you think it is?" Homura sputtered out confused. Grabbing for an old glass half full of water, he drank it down and rolled the empty container along his fingers. "Ikari, Katsuragi…one of them I don't know which, maybe both! I…can we just take out Minaka and end this mess and then I can go on vacation?" he slipped the glass and it rolled along the counter.
Catching it before it hit the ground, Miya put it into the sink. Killing wasn't the answer, well she didn't want to accept it as one unless necessary. "Death doesn't solve anything and only causes more pain. Somebody might try to follow in his footsteps, or without him to balance out Ikari Gendo we might have an even bigger problem. But…we cannot stand idle while this continues. The world has enough to fret over without those two children fighting among one another. And I've…" Miya stopped as Shinji returned to the room. She had something that needed her protection, and that she would insure he and the other children weren't at the mercy of these madmen any longer than necessary. "Was it there?" she asked knowing the answer.
"No it wasn't, but there was some junk mail," Shinji handed it over, "Oh Kagari-san, you're awake. Are you feeling alright? You look a little flush." He would have went to check had Miya not pulled him back towards the counter.
Putting the knife back into his hand, "Kagari is fine, just a lot on his mind. Lets make a feast for Katsuragi and Musubi's return shall we. We've a few things to tell them after all." The heat in her chest intensified as he nodded, it was official, the pact made and agreed to. Woe be the one that tried to infringe upon it.
X-X
This wasn't good, not good at all, Kensuke thought. Where MBI said they could leave the city, he was finding the proof such was not actually the case. Roaming the city with Kuno, he was seeing MBI emplacements all over scanning for Ashikabi and their Sekirei. Bus and train stations, airports, and even some streets had monitoring devices! At first he thought he was being paranoid as his finances reached high enough to attempt the escape, but the more he looked into it the more proof proved him right! Ashikabi's that attempted to escape were intercepted and defeated, their Sekirei reclaimed.
"Do you think this hat looks good on me?" Kuno asked breaking Kensuke from his thoughts. Making the most of their trip about, Kuno was doing a little shopping. Holding the brim of the large white sunhat, the thing made the smaller girl look even smaller, quite adorable actually.
Putting his phone away, the article about a mysterious fight at a train terminal half read, Kensuke felt his stomach ache. Stress and fear were eating away at his insides, constantly worrying that Kuno would be taken from him. Seeing her though, either ignorant of her danger or doing her best to hide it, he pulled his wallet out, "You look great in it. Want it? I haven't gotten you anything since I started saving to leave."
"Maybe another time," Kuno put the hat back on the stand and linked arms with Kensuke. Humming to herself as the left the train station gift shop, they rejoined the bulk of humanity. They boy made a point to avoid the cracked concrete that marked the site of the 'movie scene' they came to inspect. It was a fight of course, and only one that a Sekirei could pull off. When they were away from other potential spies, "I think it was the Disciplinary Squad. T-the strongest of us...MBI uses them to...keep us in line."
Patting her arm, less she start crying as she was oft to do, Kuno was quite the crybaby, Kensuke had to think of something! "So if we try to leave they'll find us you think? C-could you put them to sleep with your songs and we escape?" Kensuke had to hope. If they DID get out of the city they'd be safer. MBI's reach was everywhere, but it was concentrated in Tokyo-3.
Her head wobbled to and fro as she thought, "Maybe one of them if they weren't suspecting it. B-but if they saw me coming they'd be able to shake it off. It isn't fair that my powers are so much lesser than others!" Not the first time she whined about her lack of powers, then again if he had more Sekirei she'd be a great support to them. More than one...Shinji had a lot of Sekirei. He had seen a fight between a very Misato looking one before the power outage. Maybe…
"And here is today's contestant. Are you ready for a nap," a rich voice called out. A veiled woman in a very reveling outfit...more fancy bridal undergarments with long veils attached to the wrists and ankles...leapt to the ground before them. Spinning around quickly sending those long bits of cloth out at Kuno, the fight started before Kensuke even had a chance to realize it!
Pushing Kuno out of the way of the attacks, ducking under them himself, Kensuke was already thinking of where to run. "Kuno-chan, run!" They had to run, they couldn't win in a fight against such a foe. Hell, he knew they had to win A fight, but so far they had ran from all possible fights. One hit and out came the tears, and Kensuke was no help either.
"N-No, not without you! I-if we don't win at least once before stage two ends..." Kuno tried sounding brave. Her knees were knocking, her eyes wide, and her fingers were twitching did not a confident image make. Barely weaving out of the way of a bevy of cloth attacks, Kuno was already backing up against a wall. A crowd started to form, they always did once these fights started. Attractive people, showing a lot of skin, and promises of violence drew lots of attention. Starting to sing, wordless sounds of the most soothing quality, Kuno was throwing her lot into this one.
The masked Sekirei put a hand to her head and actually staggered a little, her attacks stopping. A little groggy, "Interesting trick you have there. But it isn't...isn't going to be enough!" Rushing inward, now more telegraphed than before, the attacker lunged at the songstress. Kensuke watched and fell for the same ploy that Kuno did. He got excited when she dodged to the left, where the cloth was headed, but the attackers actual hands were going right. Grabbing Kuno by the biceps, the attacker threw the smaller girl to the ground.
Finding the crowd cheering as the women tussled on the ground, Kuno's uniform getting ripped and torn and her flailing caused the attackers top to shift and show much skin, Kensuke tried to think of something. If he was stronger, if he was bigger, if he had a stick or something he'd just run in and throw down! But he was small, he was a thinker not a fighter...but he had to try! If he did nothing, Kuno would lose now, and all his plans of escape would be for nothing! So he charged in, a do or die dive at the attacker as she was perched atop Kuno reading to strike the final blow! He connected with the woman's stomach, and for one terrifying moment thought she'd just ignore the strike. But after that moment came, she shifted and rolled off Kuno, Kensuke went with her and lay atop her and the veil that hid her identity was gone. "U-Uzume-san? W-what are you…?" Kensuke didn't believe it!
"You know me?" Uzume gasped as she pitched Kensuke off. Rolling backward and flipping back to her feet, Uzume fixed her wardrobe malfunction and put her mask back on. But the fight was clearly out of her. Taking a few steps back, "How do you know my name, who told you?"
Helping Kuno back up, her eyes wet as she held back her fear, Kensuke's shoulder hurt like a bastard. If he wasn't overwhelmed with adrenaline he might have lied or thought of a cunning story. But his heart was beating so heard, his head light was dizziness, "Touji Suzuhara...friend of mine took picture of you when you visited Mari-chan. Shinji Ikari...saw it and put a name to the face. W-why did you attack us?"
"No...no-no-no! You...its all falling apart! Fuck!" Uzume screamed and ran off after punching a hole in a wall. After a solid block of running she vaulted to a streetlamp and then a roof and then she was gone.
On unsteady legs, Kuno tugged on Kensuke's arm, "W-we should get home. If we get into another fight now..." Kuno had a point, they both were hurt and tired, they'd make easy targets for anybody wanting a quick win.
As they hustled home, best they could at least, Kensuke fired off a text to the only other Ashikabi he knew. 'Uzume-san just attacked Kuno-chan and me. You better watch out for her!' It didn't take long for his phone to ring after the text was sent, Shinji was calling. Answer the call, not bother with platitudes, "Dude, I'm not lying. She just attacked us. She was wearing some mask and nearly beat Kuno-chan. Only reason we got away is I knocked the veil off and recognized her. She got super pissed when I mentioned Touji and you."
"I-uh...alright. I guess its good to know. You alright though, you got away from her?" Shinji did not sound happy, confused more than anything. "What were you doing when she attacked you?" he added after a moment of silence.
Never did he love the sight of his simple apartment more than today, they were going to be safe. "I-I was confirming something I read online. Kuno-chan and I want to get out of the city, but I've been seeing a lot of 'mysterious fights' at train stations and the like. Kuno-chan thinks its some Disciplinary Squad taking out Sekirei and their Ashikabi as they try to run," he pulled out his key and unlocked the outer door. Not a rousing story, no great conquest or romantic escapade, it was their cowardice and acceptance of their position as bottom rung among the fighters.
"That's...c-can I help in anyway? Maybe ask Misato-san or something Nerv could do?" Shinji again sounded more confused than anything. Voices on his side were demanding something of him, a lot of voices it sounded like.
Thinking was hard right now as his adrenaline was still high, didn't hurt that Kuno took her dirty top off and was in naught but her sinful skin. Plopping down on the couch, "I don't know. I'll have to think of something. Just wanted to warn you about Uzume-san. You live with her right? She might attack you if you let your guard down. Just...just be safe man. Later." Hanging up after Shinji said goodbye, he dropped the phone on the coffee table and took Kuno into her arms. Hugging her tightly, she reciprocated and they just sat there for awhile. This sucked, this fighting bullshit was a nightmare...but they had to do something!
X-X
Notes
Changing the angel order up a little to go with my plans of story, hope ya don't mind. And trying to keep both stories progressing at a good clip. Hope you enjoyed this, and hope you stay safe in this time of rather confusing shit.
Later
Mercaba
