Standard Disclaimer
World really went crazy with this Corvid-19 stuff hasn't it. I've been WFH for awhile now and my cat is driving me crazy. But I'm betting a lot of you are suffering as well. I would have thought I'd have more time to write, but my brain is...less than motivated at times. Sorry about that, hope you're all doing well
X-X
On Angels' Wings
Chapter – 9
Waking with a gentle mutter, Musubi squeezed her captor against her, but didn't feel the warmth she expected. Opening her eyes, she noticed that she was alone in the room, and for a split moment her mind went wild. Where was Shinji? Where was Misato? What was happening!? Sitting up quickly, sending Pen-Pen spiraling off of her blanket and into Misato's, she launched up to her feet. About to go running out to find her darling Ashikabi, she noticed the state of the room and remembered. It was missing a lot of things, oh and it was a lot dirtier. A whole two days after Shinji was moved out of their room and into his own, Misato and she let the room fall into a state. Well Misato did as Musubi didn't drink and there were a lot of bottles and snack packages.
"That's right, Miya-san gave him his own room!" Musubi bopped her fist off of her upturned left palm. While it was sad she couldn't sleep next to him every night, she had to agree with Shinji that it didn't prevent it. It was only polite to let the others sleep alone with him as well, her battle sisters, and to not potentially have Misato walk in on them when they… Musubi wiggled at the memory of the night before. Yup, Matsu's training in the ways of 'how to be a girlfriend' were working! Changing out of her sleeping attire, tossing it over Pen-Pen's head so he couldn't peek, Musubi was ready to great the day!
Heading out into the hallways, it was a little damp and cold this morning promising rain, Musubi trained her ears on the place. It was mostly silent this morning, nice and peaceful just as Musubi enjoyed. A good fight was always wanted, but mornings were better spent training and enjoying time with her Ashikabi. Waving at an approaching duo, "How are you two this morning! Did you get your answer from Shinji-san? And…uh…are you still angry?" Musubi tried to like Asuka, did to a degree, but the girl fought back as hard as possible.
"He told you that before answering me? I can't…who told you?" Tsukiumi's cheeks went red. Cradling her fancy attire in her arms as she was clad in her high-grade robe, the pair had a very frumpy aura about them. Keeping her distance, standing between Musubi and Asuka as a Sekirei should, Tsukiumi scanned about the hall, "Is he not with you? With this break in their learning, I would think…"
Huffing her way past the standoffish Sekirei, Asuka had her own daily attire in her arms, "Can we not talk about how I should be in Okinawa right now? I still can't believe captain liver damage has the gall to forbid I go and then be gone most of the time!" Stomping her way towards the collective bathing hall, the angry Second Child made a grand gesture of annoyance. Not bothering to turn back to them, "And if you could get that idiot to cook something good before you both go off to fight over him, that would be great!"
Well that was awkward, but Musubi never let anything get her down for long, Asuka was just upset about not getting to go on that trip thing. She was smack dab in the middle of Phase-2 of this plan, so she wasn't going to leave! Might miss a good fight, a chance to prove herself, if she left! Getting out of Tsukiumi's way, "Oh, he didn't tell me, but he's been mumbling about it when he doesn't think anybody is listening. W-what DID you ask him? He just keeps saying your name and looking fuddled. Matsu says you're trying to…cuck us, what does that mean?" Big words such as cuckold confused the fighting bear.
"I…I…I'm taking my bath! I'll see you for training later!" Tsukiumi nearly fell over. The word must mean something powerful though, as the moment Musubi said it the reaction had been overwhelming. Body quiver from hips to shoulders, face going gaunt white, and the immediate escape. Questions for Shinji for later! Rushing past Musubi, the Sekirei of water nearly flooded past following Asuka. Those two did seem to be getting along a little better last few days at least, at the minimum they weren't fighting as much.
A creak from the ceiling got Musubi's attention before she headed off, "That girl is going to be so fun to experiment with. She is planning something but is so pure that she can't even acknowledge it. If she ever does try something physical with Shin-tan he'll either drown in her juices, break her mind, or both." Her hair falling out of the trap in the ceiling, Matsu's glasses glinted showing where eyes were but the rest of her was cloud in darkness.
"She's going to attack him? But I thought she still wanted to be his Sekirei or something. And Shinji-sama can fight her mind!? Like that movie we watched!" Musubi suddenly was very interested in Matsu's comments! They had a movie night right before this vacation started, a man could make people's head pop with his mind! It was gory…she didn't like gore, but she did enjoy Shinji cringing into her during it!
Drawing back into her hold, Matsu clicked her tongue, "Oooh they're still talking about this. She DID confess to him…bolder than expected. And no, not attack in the way you're thinking about. And all I'm saying is miss prude would…let me ask you this. After your last little visit to Shin-tan's room alone…imagine how SHE would feel in that place?" And with a cryptic laugh, Matsu's hair drew back into the ceiling and the door shut leaving Musubi to be confused.
"Last time…" Musubi whimsically whispered. Well it wasn't a lot, just a little cuddling and then he used his fingers to…wait! When he did that she got really…oh OH yeah Tsukiumi did have a lot of water! Shaking that warm fuzzy out of her head, she went on the hunt for her remaining battle sisters and her Ashikabi. Kazehana was likely sleeping off the last nights drinking, but the others were morning people. Hearing some soft chatter coming from the kitchen, Musubi slowly stalked her way towards it only to find somebody else spying on the kichen, "Kagari-san? Is something wrong?"
Shushing Musubi and shaking his hand at her, Kagari pulled back into the hall way. With a finger over his lips and barking in harsh whispers, "Keep it down. If they hear you they'll stop! Miya, your Ashikabi, and their little girl are having a time making breakfast for us all. I haven't seen Miya this…I don't know what happened but something changed between them." Kagari bit on this thumb and paced a little while his left arm cradled his waist.
"And if you stir it like that Ku-chan, it'll turn out perfect," Miya's firm but gentle voice wafted over the morning stillness. Giggling from the young girl then joined by Shinji as some sizzling could be heard. The pair of spies peaked around the corner to see Shinji and Kusano pouring batter onto a frying pan and for Miya to be staring right at them with an unreadable expression. Speaking as if she didn't find intruders, "Just let it sit and flip it when the bubbles stop and it's nice and ready. And the smell alone will summon all manner of little mice."
Well no reason to hide once you're found, so Musubi just sauntered in with her grin. Kneeling down to look Kusano in the eye, she pushed the little girl's nose in, "You're helping make breakfast today? I should help some morning. Curry is good for breakfast right?" Scooping Kusano up as she stood, girl did her koala act and clamped on, Musubi still felt that heartwarming joy of being close to Shinji. Shoulder to shoulder, "So what are today's plans? Has Misato said anything about the…mission?"
Shooing Shinji away from the stove, taking a moment to gently pat his shoulder, Miya gestured to the table. "No business talk at the breakfast table. That goes for you two as well. It is time to gain strength from one another and enjoy the calm. After we eat I'll expect the two of you out for practice. Ku-chan you're welcome to join us if you wish," taking Shinji's place, Miya continued the cooking.
"Did you sleep well, Musubi-chan, Kagari-san? With the new room, it's a little quiet in the morning," Shinji poured himself a glass of juice. Fixing a plate of toast and milk for Kusano, Shinji ruffled her hair less she start to bite to get his attention again.
Before Musubi could say anything, Miya did add, "Don't let Kusano's little intrusion go unknown, now. She had snuck in and crawled into your futon even after I was sure she went to bed." Miya wasn't letting anybody have a free pass. The rules were pretty firm, if Shinji had school the next day or Nerv priorities he was to have his futon to himself, and once it was 'bed time' the door was to stay shut. No sneaking in unexpectedly.
Kusano quickly found her toast to be the most interesting thing in the room and opted to eat it slowly as the rest shared a laugh at that. Helping herself to some water, juices made her tired as the sugar burned off, Musubi beset the appetizers. "I slept alright. It's…lonely without you in the room. Misato does still move around a lot and Pen-Pen has been punted into me more than once. But with this vacation, doesn't that mean you don't have school?" Musubi stole a glance at Miya wondering at the reaction.
"I slept like the dead. Long night at the club and a…well I had a busy night. Never leave a lady waiting, they don't like that," Kagari had a cup of coffee. Sliding out of his chair, and leaning against the counter next to Miya, extended his coffee mug out, "And you two? I didn't know Ikari-kun signed up for the landlady's personal wakeup call. Didn't know it was an option."
In a blink of an eye, Miya was away from the stove and at the table with a stack of pancakes already set down. Musubi didn't see her move, didn't even feel the wind, it was neigh instantaneous! "Shinji-kun and my interactions are not your concern, and are a private matter. It would do you well to respect that, Kagari-kun. And Musubi-san, Katsuragi has informed me that she will have word on their next Nerv mission tomorrow. Shinji-kun, you're expected to spend most of the day at Nerv tomorrow. Though she said you can use the pool if you wish," Miya set two large hot cakes on his plate and then went back to the stove.
"I wanted to help Miya-s-san cook this morning. And I haven't spent much time with Ku-chan and felt she was due a nice day. So while you are training, I'll be helping her with a few things. Then maybe we can go out for a while in the afternoon. Sound fair?" Shinji sounded different to Musubi. A strange giddiness was there, Musubi liked it, as if he let go of a held breath. Putting a little butter and syrup on his stack he started eating and cutting Kusano's for her.
A day out on the town! Of course she wanted to go out, but Matsu said she needed to share more. Shinji did give her the lion share of his time out of the Izumo House…but…a group meeting! "That sounds great! Maybe Kazehana or Matsu can come with us! Oh! Tsukiumi-san can come too! Matsu-san did say she was trying to cuck you…or you'd break her mind…or…something" Musubi crooned her head back in thought, what DID that really mean.
Kagari knocked his cup over, thankfully empty and his eyes went wide as he turned to Shinji and then the still cooking Miya. "I think I'll take my breakfast in my room. You…you have fun Shinji-kun," Kagari got up and patted Shinji's shoulder. But something strange happened, something only Musubi saw as Shinji was tending to a syrupy faced Kusano and Miya's aura was flaring. Once he touched Shinji, Kagari body had a spasm and he kept that hand on Shinji as his complexion turned quite red, then he ran off.
Further talks of the afternoon out were shelved as Asuka and Tsukiumi joined the table and Asuka just had to steer the conversation. It was things Musubi didn't care much about, television, Asuka's annoyance at missing her trip, fashion, people Musubi didn't know, and random other things. All through the breakfast though, she saw Shinji and Tsukiumi stealing glances at one another, but never when the other was looking. She felt…confused by it. This other Sekirei was eying her Ashikabi, they had some connection that Musubi didn't…she didn't know how she felt about that.
"How about I do the dishes, Ku-chan can help me. It is only fair correct?" Shinji asked Miya as the last of the plates gathered. He had held Musubi's hand a few times during the meal, Shinji always dotted on her when he could, but he was shy.
Finishing the last of her tea, still in the mug she received as a gift, Miya nodded, "That is fair. Now you actually help and don't just splash around. You two, I shall see you both outside after you've prepared yourself. Soryu-kun." After addressing the room, and taking a plate of food for the ceiling dweller, Miya excused herself.
Keeping her place at Shinji's side, and aiding with the multitude of glasses and plates, Musubi was astonished when Tsukiumi did the same. Flanking the lad, "If you'd like, we're going to go out this afternoon to hit the town, you can come with us! And we can talk about you…" Shinji's hand was suddenly over her mouth, oh yeah everybody was reacting strangely to that word…she could ask Tsukiumi what it meant before training! After that warmth left her face, "Well you can come with us if you like. Ku-chan, keep Shinji-sama safe!" Ku-chan gave a salute and ascended the stool provided to 'help' Shinji clean.
Keeping silent until they got to the backyard, Tsukiumi held herself higher than in the past. "I see through thy plan to paint me the villain in this exchange. But I shan't be fangless and shall see my heart gain purchase within the cavern of his chest. Ye shall not hold thy position above me ne'er longer. And thy ally, the be speckled letch shall not undermine my resolve. I shall be wife while you be naught but servant!" Tsukiumi challenged Musubi boldly.
"Wife? Musubi is Shinji-sama's wife too! A wife is a woman that loves somebody and is loved back right? Somebody who you make love to? So you want to…" Musubi's brain came to a crash. Wait, Tsukiumi wanted to make love to Shinji? But…wasn't that just between Ashikabi and Sekirei, boyfriend and girlfriend…or if some of those movies Matsu had her watch boyfriend and boyfriend and girlfriend and girlfriend? Was Tsukiumi had to know she couldn't replace any of Shinji's Sekirei, she wasn't one of them.
Launching a torrent of water at Musubi, training officially starting, "No, wife is the one loved beyond all others, servants get the cast off and scraps. I shall show to all of you that our bond be strongest! He shall accept me, I know it. Now have at you!" And that was how Miya found them, sparring heatedly yet not dangerously. Musubi wasn't clear on the whole wife/girlfriend/servant thing…but she wasn't going to be any lesser to Shinji than Tsukiumi was for sure!
X-X
Even with Matsu's help with his studies, physics still was his bane Shinji accepted. It was just the abstract thought wasn't something that came naturally to him. Cause and effect should be simple to understand, not some strange causation! Trying to re-read the page, his vision went blurry and he just let his chin dip down. Couldn't concentrate, too much going on around him to concentrate! Taking a moment to try and get some peace, he gazed out over at the pool and his eyes just found a bevy of attractive women enjoying the pool.
As they were waiting for Misato to finally tell them the big mystery mission, all the children and their bodyguards were expected to stay the day on base. So, Rei and Akitsu were already swimming in the pool when Shinji and his tribe arrived. Akitsu was nearly bursting out of one of Ayanami's spare suits, and leaving a few tiny ice cubes as she swam. On a lawn chair she got from…who knew, Kazehana was lounging with a drink and a very (Shinji felt very warm) revealing two-piece. Thankfully Musubi and Kusano were swimming as well…but they each had to give him a small fashion show that left Shinji leaving his book on his lap for a bit.
"At least they're having fun, but they're worried about me," Shinji drummed his pencil off the page. It took Misato telling Miya she didn't have access to prevent the woman from coming as well. Uzume, Shinji didn't know what to think about her and Kensuke's frantic call. Drawing a small, and bad, picture of Uzume in her latest outfit for Mari, Shinji tried to think of it. Grumbling, "She had to have a reason for attacking him. But why? She said she won her fight for Phase-2 already, so why go out masked and picking fights with low level Sekirei. Mari-chan wouldn't ask her to…and she hasn't been back to the house to talk about it."
Going to talk to Mari about it was considered, but Shinji wouldn't go without Uzume for it, Touji was off on the trip, and Kensuke was plotting his escape. "If I could just talk to her, get her to explain," Shinji added some shadow to his drawing. Uzume was so nice, flirty yes but devoted to Mari, so Shinji just couldn't come up with a reason! So, since she was now an unknown his own Sekirei were in over-protection mode. It warmed his heart to know they cared so much, it was reciprocated full-fold, but that left them at an impasse.
"Shinji-sama! Why don't you swim with us? We can have a race!" Musubi called out happily and…wow she wiggled a lot in that bikini. Squeezing her fist shut she launched a torrent of water at him. A normal person couldn't get the tiny bit of fluid to go the ten feet to hit him…Musubi's nearly knocked him off his chair.
Thankful for the cold water to chill his…well a teenager could only see so much before he reacted…Shinji leaned away from his book so he didn't get it wet. Flicking some of it off of his chest, "I'm still not done with my homework. But you can have a race with Rei-san and Akitsu-san. Bet they'd give you a challenge." He almost said to wait for Tsukiumi, but thinking of her was another big problem. Watching Musubi climb out of the pool, water cascading down her form in rivulets that captured the light and her form exquisitely, he went right back to the book. "I-is something wrong, Musubi-chan?" why was she coming over?
"Just wanting to see how far you are, and ask what is bothering you?" Musubi on the chair to Shinji's right. The small patio table only had four chairs, so Musubi was right up in his face and he couldn't look away. Such caring in her face mixed with her infinite energy and positivity. Scooting the chair closer to him, "A-are you thinking about Tsukiumi-san? I've noticed you've been distracted lately, more so when she's involved. She is somewhere here right? Is it her confession to you?"
At times like this Shinji remembered Musubi wasn't dumb just naive to social things, yet she could see things that others tried not to. Nodding his head, Shinji would never lie to those bond to him, "Yeah I am. I…I don't know what to do. Like with Ku-chan, I saw Tsukiumi in dreams…felt drawn to her. Then…you know what happened. Now she asked me to p-partner with her. Isn't it wrong? I've so much love for Matsu-chan, Ku-chan, you…Kazehana-san is a bit overwhelming. Isn't it wrong to want more? Shouldn't I be happy…I am happy…shouldn't I be fine with so much?" It was greed pure and simple! He had so much, so much more than what he had a year ago!
"Will you love me, us, less if you did? Tsuki-san said something about being your wife to me, well…if I can be your wife to, all of us…does it matter? I was excited about her once you told me about that dream, and she's a great sparring partner with Miya-san! I'm your Sekirei, I will follow you into anything! So don't let this bother you! If you want to try something…" Musubi leaned across the table and kissed his cheek. Fluttering her eyes at him, she noticed him leaning over a little more and slowly started reaching across the table towards him.
Preventing Musubi from acting on what she saw, Asuka announced her arrival in typical fashion. "Hey what are you two doing over on the side? And you, why aren't you in a suit like they are?" Asuka asked as she sat opposite of Musubi. The fight junkie was smart enough to back off and leaned against her chair. Grabbing Shinji's book, Asuka spun it around, "Such a dutiful student. With that freak in the attic helping you, strange to see you struggling with such a simple concept."
Doing his best to not react to Asuka in her red and white stripes, seriously what was with today and all the barely clothed beauties, Shinji felt chilled knowing Tsukiumi was likely due soon. Pouting a little at being called out, "I understand most of it, just some of the concepts are hard to visualize is all. As for the pool, I can't swim…but you can with them if you want." Shinji heard Musubi gasp, yeah he wasn't really forthcoming with that failure. Guys want to look dependable and strong before his loved ones. He couldn't even swim, he got lucky with on the Sekirei lottery with such more powerful women.
"Oh! We could try helping you learn this like we did last time! Maybe this time Matsu-chan can get undressed instead of me. It was fun!" Musubi called out jovially. Oh yeah the history lesson Matsu had! Each correct answer was a piece off, then a touch, and then well Matsu had some raw footage to use with her audio/visual models now. But Shinji did want that private, Asuka didn't want to know…and well Musubi had no filter.
Pushing away from her chair, Asuka just shook her head, "If I didn't know that pervert I'd bet you asked for that. Seriously what is up with all of you? I'm getting in." Fleeing away from the awkwardness and way to much information for a casual friend to know, Asuka hurried off to the pool and dove in.
Alternating between Shinji and the departed girl, Musubi tilted her head cutely, "Did I say something wrong again? Matsu-san said that was the standard way of assisting a loved one to study!" Getting up, hands on the table and leaning over…she really swayed with the motion…hypnotic…so close…
"Its fine, Musubi-chan. We'll talk about it again later," Shinji pinched himself to get his attention back. Counting backwards from ten in his head, he was going to have to ask Matsu to tone down the false info to Musubi. Once calm enough, "Head back over to the pool. I'll put my feet in or something after I finish. Alright?' They always wanted him involved with their activities, he wanted to as well, but swimming was something he just couldn't do.
Standing up right, giving one last massive eye fixating bounce, Musubi thankfully didn't notice Shinji's lingering gaze. Watching Asuka swim, "I guess. But if you want, we can teach you! We can get better at everything if we try. Just like…" She stopped, she could be taught at times! Rushing back to the pool, she gave a perfect dive in and rejoined the impromptu pool party.
"I don't get Asuka, I don't get her at all. Why dress up like that?" Shinji muttered as he went back to his work. She was an odd girl, and he was glad he didn't have to deal with her much. Every boy was a pervert, yet here she was dressed the impress with only him around. His pencil stopped after a few minutes as a shadow fell over him and his work…either it was Misato and she was going to tease or…
Passing Shinji and sitting across from him, Tsukiumi was wearing a simple black bikini with her number '09' embolden on it. Crossing her leg and watching Asuka play with Kusano, "I haft no path yet to go alongside you on that thought. She be naught but contradictions upon contradictions to the point I doth think even she doesn't know her own path." Turning just enough to get one eye on him, yet her body had to be purposefully posing for him, she smiled just a little. "Is my presence so unsightly to you that you need hide from the others? You knew I would be where my powers derive," she put a hand to her chest in possible actual worry.
"No-no…Its just….well I told them before you got here. I can't swim. And it does seem that you two are getting along better lately. T-things good?" Shinji felt his breath catch in his throat. Elegance mixed with attraction, cool beauty and yet she was wearing something so plain. "N-not swimming yourself?" he wanted her gone! If she stayed, she'd ask for his answer, and…and…he just…he wanted to say yes but it felt strange to do so! Aside from her exotic physical appeal, her whit, her poise, and her determination to task were just so focused it made Shinji feel unworthy. She WAS on the level of Soryu in the perfectionist department.
Just to add to the poor lad's problems, Tsukiumi reached across the table and gently grabbed his wrist. Now shifted further away, giving Shinji a perfect side profile, "Have ye had time to…come upon the answer to my hearts question? Does the beating of my heart still match yours as it did that day?" Her fingers were perfectly on his wrist to gage his pulse, and it was hammering so much she jerked her fingers away for but a moment.
"I-I have. I spoke with the others about it," Shinji started and found the world shrinking in around him. He couldn't hear the pool anymore, couldn't smell the chlorine, and all other things just faded back into a grey haze. He was going to tell her 'I'm honored but I can't', but when she turned back to him he felt his heart skip the same beat it felt whenever he was alone with his older Sekirei. She should have been his Sekirei, not thought out of greed or want but out of fate. He didn't take, he didn't ask, he didn't want, but he knew what SHOULD have been.
Switching her hand over from his wrist to holding his hand, Tsukiumi kept herself composed and straight as always, "And what have the judges decree shall be my fate then? Or do you get your fires stoked by using your skewers on me?" Pulling on his hand, his arm now across the table, he felt her heart beating and it matched his own.
He didn't speak, couldn't if he wanted to, but he didn't need to. Just a single nod and she let go, his hand snapped back as if it were rubber and he was aware of the world again. His phone was chiming, the girls were having a big race and Ku-chan was cheating with a plant she smuggled in, and Tsukiumi was standing with red complexion from head to stomach. Both of them were to overwhelmed to speak, so they didn't…it would be weird for everybody…but just like with the others, Shinji couldn't control how emotions worked! Tsukiumi did give him a good view of her behind shaking as she ran and dove into the pool joining the ruckus.
"What just happened…did she just…?" Shinji never saw a very bashful Tsukiumi but he was pretty sure that was it. So she did cute good, not the dangerous level of cute that Kusano could reach, but it was something. Take a few moments of re-reading his physics to calm himself down, his breathing finally coming back to normal, he read the message on his phone and nearly dropped it.
'Can you help us escape Tokyo-3? Two days after your next mission, just before the school comes back'
It came from Kensuke's phone, no reason to think it was a fake. Did he put himself and his Sekirei in danger for his buddy? What happened if he lost, what happened if…if…
'Yes I will,' Shinji typed back after naught but a second. What was the point of strength if it wasn't to help people? He hated this stupid Sekirei-Plan, but he knew that what Kensuke was asking was for a good thing. If he could leave, he'd ask the others if they wanted to. Kensuke and his Sekirei wanted to leave, but apparently MBI wasn't being as earnest as they claimed to be and was attacking people trying to leave.
"It'll be dangerous, if what Ken says is true…but I can't hide from this. If it was me in his place," Shinji would hope somebody would aid him. He'd tell the others after they finished swimming, knowing Matsu already knew since she bugged his phone. Putting it back into his bag, let Kensuke work on the details and get back to him. Right now he had enjoy the moment and those with him. Putting all his things into his bag, Shinji took even more reach out of his comfort zone and walked to the pool, put his legs in…and was splashed by everybody at least once. Even Akitsu got in a few splashes to catch him up with the others. Maybe taking these chances was worth it.
But all good things had to eventually end as Misato and Ritsuko joined the party just as Musubi and Rei had a leg and Kazehana was about to push Shinji's back sending him into the pool. "Sorry guys, business time. Pilots over here, guardians…I'd say you can keep swimming but I know you all well enough," Misato winked at the group. It was a poor bodyguard that wasn't near the body. Once the dripping sack of frolickers were in near, "I'll make this quick. We found an angel inside an active volcano. Its still an egg, we want to capture it. We'll need one Eva to go in, one to support, and one to stay here in case another angel attacks."
Standing there waiting to hear what Misato had planned, Shinji couldn't help but wait for his doom. It was his luck to take the dangerous positions, but this time he wasn't scared. Watching this Sekirei fight, that was scary, watching a woman tear metal like tissue paper as she approached him terrifying, but dropping into a volcano to get an egg…that was something he could do. And with his Sekirei all around him, a shroud against the evils and sadness of the world, he would do what he could on his side to protect them!
"Asuka, Unit-02 is best suited for the D-type equipment. You're up with Shinji as backup and Rei here. Ritsuko has a special plugsuit for you to try on. Mission is in two days so no over exhaustion alright?" Misato again winked but this time Shinji felt it was on him. Didn't matter, knowing he was going into harms way did put a bit bucket of water on his wants for slap and tickle. But that meant…Kensuke's plan was going to be effected slightly. But he agreed to it, so he wasn't going to back out!
X-X
Beside herself, Misato was equal levels proud and livid at her young ward. Driving towards the onsen she set up as a reward for those involved with the mission, Misato's fingers gripped the wheel tightly. On one side Shinji saved Unit-02 and Asuka, on the other he leapt into a volcano without orders or protective gear! Stupid kid shouldn't have survived what he did, but thank the gods he did. So of course she had to give him a disciplinary act, tell him he violated protocol, and that he was due for formal punishment upon return to Nerv. Asuka did not take kindly to that, Musubi didn't let go of his hand since he got out of his suit, and that Tsukiumi glared balefully at both of them.
Now nearing the end of the silent drive to the onsen, Musubi's silence was the strangest of all, Misato was going to at least try to make lighten up the atmosphere. What was the point of a reward if everybody involved was upset!? Asuka had claimed the passenger seat leaving Shinji to be sandwiched between the two Sekirei in the back. What had happened at the Izumo House since this volcano business got started, Misato needed to learn. She had been whole devoted to the task, so she missed out on…well whatever the heck had been going on. Not her proudest moments sure, but she had her duty to do and she was fully dedicated to it!
"Alright, you three head up, I have to have a few more words with my little man here. No arguments for now," Misato announced as she parked. The second van she had rented was already there, meaning Shinji's other little ladies where there along with Ritsuko. A third van would bring Maya, Shigeru, Makoto, and the rest of the operation staff later. Misato arranged this first bit for the pilots though. The less she had the pilots around others, the safer it was.
Clambering out of the van, Asuka huffed and crossed her arms, "Why can't you at least thank him for saving my life? Or were you hoping I'd just drop or something?" Girl had to have the last word in all things, even if it meant violating orders. Stealing a look inside the other van, seeing some empty bottles she grunted, "You invited them too? Isn't this supposed to be a reward for our work? What did those others do? Lets go Tsukiumi, you can fawn after your boyfriend later."
Actually helping Shinji out of the van, Tsukiumi was torn between her Ashikabi and her current action. Said action was putting the back of her hand to Shinji's forehead with an actual nervous tick about her. Pushing Musubi by the back of her shoulders, "You're warmer than you should be. If you get light headed, say something. You are to come with me, in your current state you'll do something stupid." Pushing hard, Tsukiumi propelled the protesting Musubi up the stairs along with a following and still pouting Asuka.
"Boyfriend? When did that happen?" Misato asked as Shinji dutifully closed the gap between them. He was red faced, and Misato realized it wasn't due to embarrassment like she originally thought. Should she have Ritsuko give him a checkup or something? Hating that hangdog expression on his face, the whipped dog that expects the lash again and not the gentle pat of its master. Watching the departing girls enter the building, this was best done in private, "Not playing the playboy are you, wouldn't have suspect you to be such a ladies man when you moved in."
Eyes downcast, Shinji just shrugged listlessly, "I don't know if that is an accurate term. We haven't really spent time together since we decided to t-try. And I'm not a p-playboy or ladies' man, things just-just worked out this way." He did fidget a little and watched the others enter the onsen. The moment the door closed he yelped as Misato grabbed his wrist and yanked him into a savage bear hug. Confused Shinji's hands flailed about a little before returning the embrace, "Misato-san?"
"J-just be quiet for a moment and let me have this alright, spoil an old woman," Misato gripped him tighter. Knowing her strength, she suspected she was hurting him a little, but damned if she couldn't help it! The instant he jumped into that damned pit until he was carved out of his melting suit she was sure she'd lost him. Trying her best to ignore the sensation of having a body against her…and guess she was nestling his head into her breasts cause she could feel him press against her leg, she just held him. Eventually she controlled herself again and used her left hand to fix his hair, "Sorry about that. You just had me so worried! Ritsuko has been telling me for days the danger Asuka was going to be in. You just had to jump in without any protection! I was sure I was going to lose both of you!"
Trying to pull out of her grip, it didn't help as Misato's right hand was strong enough to keep him close, Shinji just nodded into her chest. "S-sorry, but I had to do something. I-I don't want to lose anybody either. I acted before thinking, and just…sorry," Shinji's voice was soft, muffled by cloth and flesh. It tickled, practically getting a raspberry due to the vibrations.
A gentle cough got both of their attention, they no longer were alone. "My-my such a scene. If I were a different woman, I'd be a little jealous. But, I know better," Miya was standing by the van, bag hanging from her wrist. Gesturing for Shinji, Misato balked when he slipped out of her grasp and went to her. Handing the bag over, "I brought you a change of clothing. Head on up and leave us to have a chat, if you would. And know we'll be having words about your reckless bravery. But know I am proud of you," Miya enfolded Shinji in a light hug before sending him up the stairs. When Misato went to speak, she held up a finger and singled to wait. Once Shinji was inside, she let her hand drop.
"So while I was seeing to protecting humanity from the angels, looks like you violated our little agreement," Misato's ire was rising. She had trusted this woman, believed they had an agreement about Shinji! Yet that little exchange showed something had changed between Miya and Shinji during Misato's absence. Starting the long ascent towards the onsen, Misato waited for the excuse to come.
None came, "Indeed I have. I have found in him something I thought impossible since my husband was taken from me. And I shall do everything in my power to see to his safety when able. You were gone, I was not. Would you have had me spurn him, send him away to abandonment akin to what that man did to him?" Miya made no sound as she walked, but kept perfectly in step with Misato as the moved.
"So did he wing you then? Are you going to be part of this stupid fighting pit? Where were you when he jumped into the volcano? Couldn't you have used that strength everybody is so afraid of to stop him?" Misato was not intimidated. She had become numb to the fear of Sekirei. Yes-yes, Miya could take her head off in an instant if she so wanted, but so could any mugger, meteor, or angel. Being afraid of such overwhelming things was pointless.
Taking a few steps faster, seemingly teleporting several steps ahead, Miya's hair falling was the only thing that indicated her inhuman speed. "He has not, and I would like to remain unwinged in honor of my departed. As for the plan, I do believe I have humored it enough and might have to step in. With those creatures attacking, the world little needs this madness. As for today's events. I would not stop him. As much as I fear for his life, wish to shield him from all harm, I will not dictate his life. It is his own to live. The joys are sweeter when picked fresh from the vine. If I did the work for him…he be but a pet. He is not a pet, he is…" Miya turned her gaze wistfully up to the onsen.
Stumbling over a step, Misato pitched forward in shock. She hadn't expected Miya to be so open about her feelings, so stuttered stepped. Eyes going wide as the corner of the step came careening towards her face, she winced waiting for the impact. It didn't come, Miya caught her effortlessly and held her with one hand. "Showoff. You get off on this don't you? So…anything else happen while I've been away? Other than you trying to steal Shinji-kun from me?" Misato relented as she was set back up. Things happened, things changed, and Misato was one to roll with it and not fight it.
"The faucet with legs has complicated issues with her action, but such is how she is. Shinji-kun has fully moved into his own room, and the sneaking vine keeps breaking in when nobody looks. And I feel they are planning something dangerous, but are keeping it close to their chests. I will speak to you shortly about a few things that need addressing. But for today, relaxation and recovery," Miya opened the door for Misato just like at Izumo Inn.
Walking into the onsens entry room, Misato nearly burst out laughing but was able to keep it down to just two snorts. Surrounded by his Sekirei, Shinji was trying to explain himself to all of them while they were doing their best 'I'm angry at you yet still trying to get your attention.' Kusano gave up on words and was just chewing on his leg.
"Ma'am, welcome to my humble establishment. I must admit I was not expecting such an…attractive group. When I was told Nerv was renting us out today, I wasn't expecting an idol group," a slightly balding man bowed politely and swabbed his forehead. Despite his rather glowing compliment, he had a clipboard that showed he was business first. Turning the board to Misato, it went over what they ordered and was expecting a signature, "Were you going to need anything else? The food is prepared, the baths open, and robes prepared."
Writing her name on the line after scanning to insure it was all there as agreed. Winking at the guy, he was the sort Misato knew wasn't out to con them, "Sadly this is the exception and not the rule. The next few groups will be older, heavier, and less than that." Handing the pen back, she shared a laugh with the man. One doesn't expect a crew that looks like they stepped out of a classy magazine when working with a military organization.
"Well I hope you don't mind, but I took a few photos to be used in my new pamphlet. Nothing bad, just them moving about the hall and the lobby," the manager confessed as he took his customary place behind the counter.
Breezing past Misato, fluttering on those unseen legs that made her appear to float, Miya cordially nodded her head. With a knowing exchange with Misato, "If anything were to much, I'm sure you would be gentlemanly enough to not use them. Now you are causing a scene ladies, don't crowd lad. He had his reasons, just as you all due during your…personal troubles. Now let us enjoy the onsen while we are here." Miya dispersed the girls from around Shinji with her patented oni-mask.
"You'll have to teach me that one someday, gets a reaction from just about everybody," Misato joked. One of those things that Misato accepted, she wasn't intimidated by Miya like those Sekirei were. They 'could' fight Miya, could sense just how strong the woman was, to Misato it was an impossible feat so why let it bother her. Grabbing Shinji thought, "Now you're going to be good for the rest of the day right? Baths are segregated and I don't want to worry about getting kicked out cause you couldn't control your wild teenage urges."
Spinning around and thrusting his fists down, "Misato-san! Miya-san I wouldn't do something like that!"
Ruffling his hair, Misato just smiled, "I know, but have to remind you to keep an eye on THEM. I, we trust you. Just Matsu-san and Kazehana-san on the other hand likely are already plotting something. Don't let them. Then again…your newest conquest can control water so…wait…could she?" Misato stopped to think about it. When Shinji scampered off, Misato did wonder if Tsukiumi could do something without anybody seeing it. Maybe she should have had Kaji or Sao show up to keep him company.
With the Shinji teasing delay, Misato and Miya found much of the changing room empty when they got there. "Why do we have to do this naked? I don't want to parade myself around in front of them like some piece of meat," Asuka grumbled as she sat on a bench, towel wrapped tightly around herself.
"If we are all exposed, nobody is treated differently than one another. We show ourselves as our true self, open and pure. Nudity isn't something to be ashamed or fearful of. In time, you will grow as we all have into your body," Miya casually dismissed Asuka's fears. It took some time, the kimono was layered and the wraps elegantly done. Once it was off and folded in a basket, Miya's pale skin was radiant.
Joining Miya in the 'lets tease Asuka' club, Misato was quick to fill her own basket, and to notice Kazehana had brought a few bottles into the bath with her. Good woman, knew how to relax. "Just the culture, Asuka. Nothing to be worried about, and it won't get any better skulking in here. The smell will get better once you get used to it," Misato had to stand close to Miya to give Asuka a full view. Seeing Miya outside of a kimono though, woman's body was just as bombastic as Kazehana and Musubi maybe more so!
"You have a…" Asuka whispered before shutting her mouth and joining the frivolity.
Grabbing a towel for herself, Misato pulled it around herself, shame filling her. She temporarily forgot her scar, her ugly scar. "Guess I deserved that one. Went to far, and now she'll wonder about it till I tell her," Misato did what she could to keep her bitterness from welling back in. It made her ugly, made her a broken person, and she hated it.
"We all have scars, mentally and physically. They make us who we are, they add to us not detract. A child doesn't know how to react properly, that one doubly so. So no hiding it. They'll ask, you'll tell, and we move on. Now if we don't hurry out there, when we get out it will only be Soryu and the others will have vanished somewhere," Miya tore away Misato's towel and hustled out of the changing room.
Chasing after Miya to get that stupid towel back, Misato found all of Shinji's Sekirei at the wall talking to him through it. "Girls, leave him alone and let us have a nice girls' day trip. I had Pen-Pen brought over to keep him company. Now, how about you tell me what's been going on since I got roped into this mission," Misato ordered.
They listened, those impossibly strong and capable women bowed down and listened to the lowly human. But when she heard twin voices on the other side of the wall, Misato colored, "Kagari-kun came too? Why didn't I see him?" Guy was still stupid attractive, had listened to her whine and complain at that host-club…and he was naked overthere with Shinji? Well whatever, at least if Shinji fainted he had somebody watching over him. It was time for a little bonding session with all the ladies in her little man's life.
X-X
Packing both Kuno and his things into a single bag, he'd have his dad mail more things later if possible, Kensuke wrapped clothing around his laptop. Today was the day, the big day, and if it worked…he'd own Shinji and his crew so much. But if this Discipline Squad was as powerful as Kuno claimed, it was possible one or more of those Sekirei might get totally defeated. Was he ready to sacrifice people that Shinji cared for? He…he didn't WANT to, but he didn't have an option! They'd help as much as they could though, try to make this as fast as possible.
"Ken-chan are you ready?" Kuno asked as she dried her hair. If this was to be their last day together, they had wanted to make the most of it. And boy did they, fear of separation drew out some of the more 'if only once in my life' requests from both of them. Putting a few things into the knapsack, things Kensuke told her not to before, she hoped he'd not notice her selfishness. Kensuke did, but didn't say anything. Fixing her hat and other 'combat' attire, "What time were we meeting them?"
Hoping he calmed down more, his vision was already a little blurry due to his hyperventilating, Kensuke unlocked his phone. It showed the digital map of the city, zoomed into the south side of the city, their point of egress. "We're meeting them in about an hour right by that bridge. It has the least surveillance I could find. We'll have to travel on foot until we can get a ride. Hitchhike if we have to," Kensuke fumbled the phone but Kuno caught it.
"We'll have to walk? Isn't it a few miles to the next city or bus station?" Kuno whined just a little. Part of why Kensuke liked her actually, she was flawed just like he was. Despite her powers, she liked things soft and easy. She had wants he could deal with and see too, not high maintenance demands like that blond with Asuka likely demanded. Committing a cardinal sin of scanning through Kensuke's photos, "So how many of them do you think will show?" She flashed Kensuke the few images Kensuke got of Shinji's Sekirei, clearly upset.
Pocketing the phone, better to nip this jealousy in the bud, Kensuke got up and shouldered the bag. "Don't be that way, Kuno-chan. It's those photos that got us the money to get out of here. I don't have a job yet, and selling pictures got us what little we have to last us until we get to Grandma's," he reached out to her. Yes Shinji's Sekirei were all very beautiful, the newest nearly tripling sales all around, but they weren't who Kensuke loved. Holding is hand out to her, it was time to leave for the meet-up, "I don't know who is all coming, but I know they'll do their best to help us. So play along with them?"
She hesitated for a moment, but when she went to him she hung on tightly, "We'll make it right? We'll really get away?" Fear was the word of the day, hell it was the word of the month! As time moved on, fights were happening more frequently as Ashikabi frantically fought for the last few Sekirei and to garner their necessary victory. Stepping out into the darkening streets, night was the planned time for their escape after all
"We will, you've seen how strong those girls are," Kensuke tried to calm Kuno down, and himself. Having watched what fights he could find of Shinji's crew, it was promising. But the one video Kuno said was of the Red Sekirei was intimidating. It wasn't a fight, it was a beat-down that turned Kensuke's hardened stomach. The die was cast however, no backing out now. Reaffirming his grip on Kuno's hand, Kensuke struck off towards their destiny, "By this time tomorrow, we'll be at grandma's and this whole mess will be behind us." He'd text Touji about it later, no reason to scare the guy now. Touji was upset enough to learn the girl that hung out with his sister had attacked Kensuke.
Going down alleys, small side streets, and the occasional yard, the duo avoided any public area where MBI could have eyes. The power of the conglomerate was on display as squads of officers and cars were all over the city. Thankfully Nerv was pulling some forces to reclaim the gear from the volcano mission leaving gaps in the security net. Kensuke's father had unknowingly provided that info when Kensuke hacked his computer. But it was slow going, waiting for patrols to leave, at one point avoiding a pair of fighting Sekirei. They tried to keep their moods up with talking about all the things they'd do once this Sekirei Plan was behind them. It helped, helped greatly, but with each step anxiety rose.
"You are here, unexpected. I would have thought you'd cancel," a voice called out softly. An unknown voice, and it came from an alley right at the head of the street leading to the bridge.
Yelping, Kensuke spun to see who it was and was terrified to see an unknown woman. Shaggy brown hair, expressionless face, a faux kimono with the top splayed open yet adorned with chains. About to call for Kuno to run, he spotted another person behind the stranger, "Ayanami-san? Is that…what are you doing here?"
"I overheard Shinji-kun talking about this event. We are here to watch and aid if necessary," Rei stepped to the unknown woman's side. Clad in her school uniform, she held her phone out showing the 'Friend Locator' app and that Shinji was nearing them. Turning to her companion, "We promised not to step in unless necessary. He worries for our safety. This is my friend Akitsu, a Sekirei like her."
Kneeling down, finding a nice piece of trash to examine, Kensuke panted heavily. How easily they were spotted! If it was the Discipline Squad they'd be beaten already! They had to be more alert, more careful! "W-well thanks, Ayanami-san, Akitsu-san. A-are you an Ashikabi too?" Kensuke heard Kuno 'hmph' when he noticed how much skin Akitsu was showing.
"I am not," Rei was enigmatic as ever. The pair examined Kensuke and Kuno closely, not speaking but giving one another strange gestures and signals. Finally once the indicator that Shinji was just about there, Rei added, "As non-combatants, you are to focus on escaping. If a fight does start, you will be a hindrance."
Ouch, true, but ouch. Girl didn't pull any punches. Kuno took a little offense though, "I can fight if I have to. I may not be as strong as…many others. But I will keep my Ashikabi safe." Kuno did back away when Akitsu stepped forward to protect Ayanami. Not Sekirei and Ashikabi, but it was clear Akitsu was not letting Ayanami get within strike distance of anybody.
"Oh, hope we're not late. You four already met?" Shinji called out and disarmed the situation. Both Akitsu and Ayanami disengaged and took a few steps towards the newest additions. Kensuke noticed that, he was doing his best to pay extra attention to everything after the horrible start. Those two girls were more than interested in Shinji, kid had all the luck. Waving warmly at them, Shinji had nearly his full entourage with him. Musubi, Kusano, Kazehana, and even Tsukiumi were with him.
Leaning in closer to Kensuke, Kuno was a bit skeptical, "He brought the child AND another Ashikabi's Sekirei? Just what is up with that friend of yours?" Sadly, Kuno's voice was a bit powerful and her attempts at secrecy were lost.
Patting Kusano's shoulder, the little kid tried to stand up tall and puff out her chest, Shinji reaffirmed her grip on a potted plant. "Ku-chan here is going to be support, Matsu-san is somewhere watching too. Now you don't do anything unless you HAVE to, alright Ku-chan? And T-Tsukiumi-san and I are…its complicated, but I have full confidence in her. A-are we all ready?" Shinji asked the assembled.
"My-my aren't you a little cutie, bit timid if you ask me, but some guys go for that thing. And judging by the scene…we're going to have a lot of attention soon," Kazehana winked at Kuno. Doing her best to stand out in the crowd, she sauntered over to Kuno and just paraded around the smaller Sekirei. "And you two…you're not on the make for my Ashikabi are you? Wait…you're a…what are you? An unnumbered and I don't know…" Kazehana got right up in Rei's grill only for Akitsu to push back.
Rushing forward, past the group, Musubi pulled her gloves on tighter, "You really think so? I don't see anybody, but I've been wanting to test my increased skills! And Shinji-sama, you promised a date with each of us for this right?" Musubi was lighter than air and jumped nearly a foot up when did some fancy footwork.
"Y-Yeah, I did. But lets concentrate on today first a-alright?" Shinji couldn't make eye contact with Kensuke. Guess he was paying his girls for this little escape plan with some private time. With how each of them were giving him the same look Kuno gave Kensuke, Kensuke hoped Shinji survived those checks he was writing. Clearing his throat, "So ho-how do we want to do this? I know the plan is to get you across the bride. But we don't see anybody there, though I trust Kazehana-san's opinion."
Bolding taking the place on Musubi's side, Tsukiumi was cross armed and annoyed by the expression. "That perverted hacker has been relaying info to her, so don't let her act fool you, Shinji. An unknown sized force is waiting for us. And as his wife, I will get to go out with him first. Now, you two get in the center of us. We break forward, scatter their forces, and you keep running," Tsukiumi left no room for argument or even debate.
Doing as they were told, Kensuke strapped his bag to his back to keep it firmly in place. He had to needle Shinji just a little though, leaning in close and whispering, "Your wife? Going to explain that to me after this is all over?" He couldn't see anybody on the street, but had no doubt something was waiting for them. Despite his hopes of secrecy, of being all coy…MBI was impossible to ignore.
"I'll try to, if I ever understand it," Shinji replied just as soft then loudly added, "Now you're just here to help if things get bad, alright Rei-san, Akitsu-san?" A firm resolve fell over everybody as they all did their final preparation for Kensuke's liberation. "On three now. One…two…th-" Shinji didn't even finish before Tsukiumi and Musubi tore off.
Spinning around to give Shinji a saucy wink, Kazehana mocked with, "Some girls are to quick off the mark. Going to have to teach them to savor things." Then she ran off to follow them. Things dissolved into chaos almost immediately.
Running after Shinji and his Sekirei, Kensuke found he was woefully out of shape as they all outpaced him instantly. Even Shinji was a good length ahead when the search lights turned on, three of them. Three trucks, each with a squad of MBI guards and a searchlight were between them and freedom. And if Kensuke was seeing things right…two Sekirei were waiting for them as well.
"Follow the plan Kensuke, we're just here to distract them then we'll run off after you get through," Shinji reminded as they ran.
He tried to follow the action, but that was the thing though. Once things started happening, they happened quick, they were brutal, and they were over! He saw Musubi and the pink haired Sekirei wearing an outfit much like Musubi's only black with white trim duking it out while equally dressed but covered in bandages Sekirei fought against Tsukiumi and Kazehana. The only thing keeping the guards from interfiering with the fight was how Kusano's plant grew to insane size and lashed out wildly. The plant knocked the trucks over, sent the guards off kilter and opened a path for them.
"Ken-chan, lets keep going! We can get through there!" Kuno pointed at the back of a turned over truck the guards must have missed them once the actual fighting started, as they were rushing along the vines and tendrils to the source. Wherever Shinji got to, Kensuke couldn't see, everything was happening to quickly.
Call him a coward if you like, he accepted it, Kensuke just nodded and tore off towards the disable trucks. "D-do-you, t-think…kid…safe?" Kensuke was panting so hard he feared he black out. Having to stop, he hid behind the truck and looked back. He saw Shinji now, watching Musubi fight…and it wasn't looking good as Musubi was getting trounced. The squads were closing in on Kusano, and whoever was fighting the others was gone…
"They're doing this for us, we have to keep going, please…lets…lets keep going," Kuno tugged on Kensuke's shoulder to get him running again.
They were losing! All around them, they were losing, and only Shinji was going to suffer for this! Kensuke hated himself, but he didn't know what to do! Then a light and a loud engine got his attention, driving up towards them was a heavily modified motorcycle and it was making a straight line towards Kusano. "T-they have back-up? OH yeah! Ayanami and Akitsu as…" Kensuke's cheer was drown out as a large explosion rocked the bridge, one that looked like an actual angel attack! It split the guards open, then they were blocked by ice as the motorcycle made its pickup! "But what about…" Kensuke was moving again, but slowly and looking back.
The human element was taken care of, but the Sekirei one still untapped. He had to believe it was the Disciplinary Squad Kuno mentioned, but he couldn't believe their power! Just where were they!? Starting to run again, Kensuke nearly stumbled when he heard a heart breaking cry from Shinji, "Musubi-chan no!" Kuno had to drag him then, Musubi was defeated? The girl Shinji cared for beaten?!
"Nobody escapes us, it was only time until that one lost. Now it is your turn," a grim reaper of a Sekirei was now between them and escape. Large claws with scythe like tips adorning her hands, the woman clawed up the ground, her bandages making her look more grim in light of the news. "Cowards trying to escape the game, not worthy of the power given to you. Time to go!" she tore off claws extended.
Never had a Sekirei actually attacked him before, Kensuke thought there were rules against that, but he had to dive out of the way taking Kuno with him to avoid it. Clawed anyway, his clothing ripped and a small gash along his belly to back. "Just let us leave! We were told we could leave if we wanted!" he tried to protect Kuno, but what could he do. She was cut to, deeper than he was.
Flicking off the blood, the Squad member turned back around from her dangerous frontal swipe. "Pleading as your allies fall. Disgusting. What would they think of you if they knew? Benitsubasa, how was 88, was she enough for you?" the Sekirei asked as her companion joined them.
"Was expecting more, but what can you really hope from them, Haihane, they're trash," Benitsubasa was still looking quite hurt. Clothing torn and covered in bruises, she joined her partner in closing in. "Now lets finish this and get her back in storage, your tails?" she flexed her fingers openly goading the pair.
Clinging to Kensuke's back as they both stood, Kuna sniffed hard as tears filled her eyes, "I'm sorry, but this is all I can do." And she started singing, it was her song of confusion and it was in full force. Not much it could do now, but she was at least trying.
Accidentally slamming her clawed hands into her head to block the sound out, Haimane tried to block out the sound only to cut herself badly. Benitsubasa just started running at the pair with fist ready to go. Kensuke stood ready to intercept the punch, eyes closed, but it never hit.
"What are you, I beat you! What…stop!" Benitsubasa yelped out as Musubi effortlessly lifted her into the air and pitched the woman screaming down the bridge.
Having seen Musubi a few times before, Kensuke couldn't tell what he was seeing when the woman approached him. Gentle and graceful, opposite the energetic and frantic she oft was, "You are a dear man, do not let what they say bother you. Go, I'll see to that one. As for her…"
A massive torrent of water smacked Haimane in the chest and sent her flying off the bridge, Tsukiumi was not happy. Beaten, cut, and exposed more than she liked, the Sekirei of water was not wanting a rematch. "Go now, we're done here," she muttered as she shambled over to Musubi, and for a moment Kensuke thought he saw a different number on her…but it was 88 again by the time Tsukiumi got to her.
Not having to be told twice, Kuno and he ran as fast as their battered bodies would allow. He'd ask Shinji about what happened with Musubi once he was safely at his grandmothers, and slept for about a day. They escaped, it took pain on all sides for it to happen, and Kensuke pledged to not only himself but Kuno that he'd pay Shinji back for it.
X-X
Revving the engine of her bike, Matsu got a double thrill. The pulse of the vibration and the squeeze of her passenger. A quick little trip to the grocery store turned extended bike ride was going to anger a lot of people, but Matsu wasn't a selfless person. Last few days were hectic for the woman, so she was taking a little extra of her Ashikabi's time to recharge her mental batteries. Let the others fight over his time after she had her fill. An additional plus, she forgot how much she enjoyed riding her bike. Being a shut-in did cut one off from some of the simpler pleasures of life.
"Now hold on tight, going to really let this baby purr," Matsu warned Shinji. Having opted to take the long-long way home, aka wasting time, she was on a long stretch of road in the less used portions of Tokyo-3. Faster and faster, using her innate power of tech to insure she had green lights, traffic shifted, and lanes open for her. Wind through her hair, her lover (well nearly lover) holding her, and the open road ahead of her. Though she wasn't to remised to ask, "Not too fast for you I hope?"
Squeezing even tighter, his legs and arms, Shinji pulled himself closer to Matsu's ear, the wind was making it pretty hard to hear, "I-I'm fine!" He had the helmet on, Matsu only had the one, yet it was still pretty darn enjoyable to have him that close.
A call announcement started flashing on her motorcycles console, from Miya, so Matsu realized her time monopolizing Shinji's time was nearing an end. Couldn't really tick off Miya right now, she was extra clingy after the fight the day before. Zipping along a path Misato took ages ago when Shinji and she took it, Matsu found herself at a lovely view of the city. Powering down, she felt her anxiety growing once she didn't have the wind to shield her from him. Funny that, she could tease and toy with all the Sekirei at the house, yet the moment she was truly alone with her Ashikabi her nerves just went into high and her mind hyperactive.
Sliding off the bike, his legs weren't used to the vibration from the engine, Shinji shambled towards the edge. "I haven't been here in a long time. It's so pretty here, didn't think you'd know of it," Shinji was a bit more upbeat than his normal caution. Leaning against the metal protective barrier, he turned and gestured Matsu over to him.
"I get out of the house, you know this, we've gone out together. D-don't act like I'm a total shut in," Matsu defended herself with a little shame. Well yeah, she did look up good date sites online before taking this drive. Thought he wouldn't know of it and be impressed with her choice of location. So when he already knew of it, been here, and commented about it…well she pouted. But she did join him at the edge, and held him this time, "You smell bad." He smelt great, but she had to say SOMETHING to knock him down a little.
Sniffing at himself, panic all over his face, "I do? I to-took a bath before we took off," his face going pure red. Silly Ashikabi was just so trusting and innocent, made Matsu giggle every time.
"Yes you do. You smell riff with hormones. Which of your lovely Sekirei are you p-planning to tame today? Each of them has made it obvious they're expecting a reward for yesterdays recklessness. Seriously, you all got hurt so your friend could run away," Matsu still felt they over extended for very little. Kusano was nearly captured, Tsukiumi and Kazehana were beat up a little, and nobody really knew what happened with Musubi, even Musubi was confused at what happened. All for what? So Shinji's geeky friend can run off with this Sekirei and avoid all the troubles they still had!
His panicking over his smell stopped, but Shinji did pull in on himself as he turned back to the view. Leaning against the protective bar, "But he didn't want to fight, neither of them did. I have to stay here, which means…I'm forcing you to stay here. We were told we could leave if we wanted, but then yesterday. I'm…I guess I do owe all of you something for putting all of you in harm's way." Lost in his own thoughts, viewing the Geofront, Matsu's little comment hit harder than she expected.
Oh yeah, Shinji was sensitive to just about everything. One of the qualities in him that Matsu loved. He didn't have the bravado and 'emotions are dumb' that she saw in a large majority of humans. Hugging him, an action she enjoyed on multiple levels, "I didn't mean it like that. I'm glad we got him out, and it is total BS that they attacked. And now we've shown MBI that they're not as invincible as they thought they were. So what we did was good…just want a nice reward for doing it. Is that wrong?" The rubbed her temple against his and enjoyed the view.
"You do, you all do. This is all madness. I hate it. Why have you fight? It seems horrible to have us bond like this, only to threaten to take it away, I hate it," Shinji added his own force into the head scratching. Patting her arm, she let him move a little, so he turned to her forehead to forehead. Closing his eyes, "What would you want as a reward for saving Ku-chan and putting yourself in jeopardy?"
Eyes popping open, Matsu was stunned at the raw emotion from her little bundle of heat. "Do you even have to ask…but I'm not for the cheap showiness of nature. M-my r-room? I-I know I'm not as…" Matsu started lean in when the phone rang again. Not just rang but nearly exploded! Both Shinji and hers were ringing. How long had they been staring out over the city? "Maybe later," she giggled and beeped Shinji's nose leaving him in the lurch. Rushing back to the bike, her heart nearly leaping from her chest, "You deal with the calls while I get my bike up and going!"
Why did he have that damned effect on her! She was a genius and tech savant, more than just a little interested in the more carnal things in life, and here she was afraid of a tiny kiss! Well not 'afraid' as they had done more than just hold hands. For gods sake his tongue had been inside both of her…they just didn't kiss much. Listening to him talk to somebody on the other line, placating them and fibbing a little to keep Matsu from getting dog piled when they got back, she agreed with him. This was stupid, this whole Sekirei Plan! Nerv's plan was stupid too, so much of their lives were dictated by two delusional brothers that had to one-up the other!
"Yeah, we're just about to head back now. Sorry again for not telling you, but I wanted Matsu-san to see an overlook of the city. Yes I'll bring you too Tsukiumi-san. We'll be back in a few minutes," Shinji pleaded with the angry sounding voice on the other end. After a few more platitudes and a text message later, he closed the phone and slipped it away. Bashfully looking away once Matsu gave him a very 'what was that' expression, "Musubi-chan learned how to text and Tsukiumi-san was worried you…um…that you ran off with me."
Revving the engine a few times, Matsu tossed Shinji his helmet, "Tempting, but then Miya would hunt me down to bring you back for supper. And I do not want to be on the bad side of your primary guardian." Flinching her head for him to get on, she found ability to tease back once he was behind her. Wiggling her backside into him, feeling that reaction was a real mental boon. With Musubi and Tsukiumi taking the cute and beautiful roles while Kazehana stole the seductive one, Matsu worried she'd not have much on the physical department. Shinji didn't care, she knew that…but she cared. Calling back as she tore off, "You ready to be a piece of meat for them?"
"First is cooking supper. I got Miya-san to agree to it, punishment for not telling her about yesterday," Shinji yelled again. The ride back was the same mixture of joy and aggravation. He'd wiggle in his seat and send sparks up her spine, she'd do the same and he'd squeak out those sounds. As she neared the house, she entered the commands on her bike and opened her little garage for her mostly unused bike. Nearly falling off again, kid just didn't handle all the horsepower, he prepped himself against the wall. Putting the helmet back on the bike, "Going to be at the table for dinner?"
Helping him walk out of the garage and sealing it back up, she enjoyed these small moments of just nothing. "Yeah, I'll be there. If you make a small bit of chicken. That is my price," she teased. Listening to the house react to them returning was hilarious. Her little sensors and microphones were already pinging several sets of people rushing to great them. This was good. Not something she had on the ship or MBI before. Coming in the backyard, had to throw off the horde somehow, "We're back! Hey Ku-chan you…alright?"
Standing on the veranda was a very miffed looking Kusano, but since she was so darned adorable she didn't do angry well. Musubi however joined them and quickly rushed past a very large threat. Kusano had her plant with her, and those tendrils were looking lively.
"Shinji-sama you're back! Did you get my message? You said you wouldn't be gone long but it's been over two hours," Musubi was already at Shinji's side. Not pulling him away from Matsu, but she did turn him around.
Waving his hands dismissively, "We just had a place I wanted to take her too is all. Nothing bad happened, no fights, nothing. Just a little grocery shopping and a side trip is all."
"Uh, guys…maybe…" Matsu tried to get their attention before the botanical rage occurred, but she was too late. Vines erupted from the ignored Kusano's plant in massive ropy tendrils that sought attention. All three of them were grabbed, Matsu was glad to be included but confused by it all the same. Spinning in the air, discombobulated, she felt somebodies head knock into hers before her vision cleared. "O-oh my…Ku-chan I owe you a treat after this," she tried to joke but was enjoying it none-the-less.
Why Kusano did what she did, who knew but the mostly quite girl. Girl, despite trying to get Shinji's attention, made a sandwich out of the three of them. Shinji was the meat and he was…well…having two shapely bodies against him and his face smashed against her rather shapely figure and he was showing his appreciation.
"Kusano, that is not very polite of you," Miya casually walked into the assault in progress. With one swing of her broom the vines cut and then three people fell into a heap…and Musubi's thick skull crushed against Matsu's rather painfully. Shinji's muffled cries for air were nice…but not really enjoyed thanks to the overwhelming pain. In a second swift action, Shinji was at Miya's side along with Kusano. Brushing off the vines, "Four-Eyes, you didn't respond to my text. I'll be taking him for making supper now. Then you can have your own little…while I said I didn't mind some showing of affection. Just not in the open in my backyard. Now you two, it is time for our lessons."
Trying to push Musubi off of her, Matsu found the girl DID weigh as much as a bear, "Mind getting off me please? You are a little…are you awake?" When the frontal approach didn't work, Matsu went for more trickery, it was skill she did mature very well. Reaching up and tweaking a few choice bits she mumbled, "Mu-tan, if you don't stop me I'll…"
"Shin-chan!" Musubi sleep spoke and wrapped her arms painfully around her prey and wriggled. Ok, not a good thing to try doing…but an idea for later in a simulation! Sleep play might be something to try, knowing Tsukiumi she might be the type to try such. When the sensual didn't work, she went for other, tickling. That got Musubi's brain to reboot, "Oh…oh…hello Matsu-san! Uh…still a little woozy from yesterday. I didn't do or say anything did I?"
Shaking her head, "No, but we are still in a bit of an intimate location. Mind getting off of me please?" Matsu pleaded. But boy was Musubi actually a cutie up close, Matsu always knew it but was never THIS close before. More ideas for later, maybe get in a little more than one action going with Shin-tan. With another gentle push, this time Musubi did get off of her and shake her head a few times and sat down. "You just sit here and…relax a bit. You had a bad few days. But if you HAVE to do something, take a bath with Tsukiumi and Kazehana…wash their backs," Matsu set a few pieces of her trap.
Once free of Musubi's weight, Matsu hurried off to her room. Back in the dank room, dimly lit from her screens, and a lovely flashing light of a job complete. Sliding under her bay of monitors, back into her element, she tried not to feel the disappointment that was taking root. Right now Shinji was off with the others, the more socially acceptable types. Her Ashikabi was an accepting person, she was too…hell all of them were…strangely it worked well for all of them! But that didn't help the fact that she was oft the one behind, the one 'safe', and the one not involved with the after party.
"Whatever, I had my time today, and it was good," Matsu did feel warmed by that. So she went about her work as normal, with a skip in her heart. So what did her little moles find today? What porn Gendo watched, what did the illustrious CEO of MBI order for dinner? With so many probes out, so many hits, most of them were pointless. Reaching for one of her hidden bottles of juice, "So what is it today…its…w-what?"
Seele…homes, families, country of origins…all because some clerk accidentally uploaded a file that they weren't supposed to. Quickly cross referencing the names for verification, and finding them all matching up with what she'd expect. Rich people, powerful people, many on the UN security consul, and all of them were now exposed to Matsu and her ability to fuck with! Saving her new find to a secure server just in case, oh and wiring a few million yen to the clerk for duty served Matsu felt her stomach rumble. "How long have I been doing this?" she moaned.
"Three hours, you missed supper. Find something good?" Shinji asked with a tray of food in his hands. Sitting down and sliding the tray over, Shinji reclined into a very relaxed position. "Musubi is…for some reason demanding a bath with all the girls. I was sent to get you, if you wanted," Shinji had that knowing look about him. So maybe she wasn't as hard to read sometimes as she thought.
Quickly besetting the food, chicken just as she liked it, "So…what…you wanna do…while they…bathe?" She hoped he didn't mind her talking with her mouth full, but this was a golden opportunity! Spinning over, knocking over the last of the food, vegies, she crawled towards her prey. "I've…a few…experiments…" she felt that churning again. This time…this time it wouldn't be something small…today was…today was the day.
Musubi came to get them after the bath and walked in just as they were finishing…she didn't get angry or sad…she just cuddled with them and enjoyed it.
X-X
Notes
So another angel down and a pivotal bit of Sekirei has progressed as well. Making good progress but not 'rushing' I feel.
Later
Mercaba
