Sekirei: Battle of Gods, New vs Old
By Blackshadow999
A/n
This story has been undergoing a rewrite, which I've been working on off and on. I will state that the general story is overall the same, but I have added a number of things to it. But I've gone out and done more research into a couple of things and applied what I've learned, and I think this story is better because of that. I still like the idea of crossing the anime Sekirei with mythology. I won't spoil the surprises you'll get, but just say to enjoy it.
Chapter 1: Beginnings
Most people have heard of myths and legends both of their own homelands and those from other lands. That said, most can understand that myths and legends may sound impossible but have elements of truth to them. The reason I bring up the subject of myths and legends is that this tale involves such and takes place in Japan. Many of those who live in Japan, believe that the 'ancestral' folklore are mere stories told to children, for the purpose of entertaining and hold their attention. Simply put, 'intelligent individuals' reason that the folklore was made up to explain things that the modern era's 'science' have explained. This means that nowadays, many of the tales are more told for the amusement of children and have nothing of any real interest or truth to them.
Nevertheless, I would tell those of you listening to this tale, those views that all myths and legends are mere stories are completely wrong. It's more a testament to what people have forgotten over the centuries and have dismissed. What human beings call the supernatural or the unseen world; including demons, spirits, monsters and even deities, did and still do exist as they did before. The difference between now and earlier times is that the majority of non-humans as they are considered, now live among humans without drawing notice from them.
By this point, I don't doubt you're asking who am I and how might I know about what I speak of? To answer that question, I'm a non-human myself and I live among humans as a part of the current society, appearing to look as human as any other. As to the first half of the inquiry, it's a bit more complicated for me than it is for others. The reason that's the case is when it comes to the subject of names, for most beings have one name for their whole existence, even if there are different variations of the name. That's not true for me, I've had many names over my long existence, that differ from one another and aren't variations of each other. In fact, there have been so many different ones for me over my lifetime, that I've lost count of just how many a long time ago. So, I've ended out choosing a name for myself, Ashe Hitoyoshi, common enough to not attract much attention.
For those who know me in a non-intimate way, would consider me a yōkai, the native non-humans of Japan, which are creatures from Japanese folklore. In particular, I'm a fox-spirit or demon, a Kitsune, whether a spirit or demon, really depends on one's view of the difference between the two. Yet, moving on, living as a fox-yōkai, I'm aware that there are a number of narratives and legends about Kitsune, and I've heard different variations of some of the more famous stories. Most of the tales, portray 'Kitsune' like me as mean, cunning and on occasion, as malicious tricksters that bring misfortune and evil to people, laughing with glee as we do.
To be honest, such tales that imply that kitsune are like that, are ridiculous and wrong! The stories came about because of those who were taught much-needed lessons in humility. Those people in response, then went around convincing others that would listen, that fox yōkai were evil. However, it hadn't stopped there, the same individuals used their influence to go further and claimed all yōkai were evil and should be feared, disliked and even killed if the opportunity came up. The truth is that most yōkai are reasonable and are as individualistic as humans are and I include myself in that statement.
Using myself as an example, I have got a calm and collected disposition, I possess a fairly easygoing attitude yet, try to be kind to those I meet. The wisdom and experience that I've gained the length of my existence have given me understanding beyond what most ever have. Nonetheless, don't mistake how I normally am, as me being submissive to those around me, for it isn't so and I'll certainly not become so. I've proven where I stand in most things, both good and not many times, that has included playing some tricks on those who I see as deserving of receiving such. The tricks and pranks I've pulled over the passing years… well, I admit that I sometimes see them as fun sometimes and normally were well-deserved lessons being taught.
My appearance has me standing above the average height of people, less so these days than in earlier, at about six feet. I chose the height since I don't want others to start to look down on me just because they can, that would be a bad development in my view. My hair is silvery grey and frames my regal facial features that so many comment or notice I possess. It falls straight down to my neck with a small group of locks of hair that was in the middle of my bangs that goes between my eyes. I have light grey eyes, which I took on to remind me of my true self and where I came from originally. They give a kind and warm vibe to the vast majority I encounter and am around I've noticed. Combine both my hair and eyes with the rest of my overall body figure, which is average, not muscular, nor thin or lanky, I believe makes sense. It also makes me easier to approach with little fear for most apparently by my observations. The kind of clothing I choose to go with, consists of traditional Japanese clothing; a kimono, hakama skirt along with tabi socks and various footwear.
So, now that I've given a picture of how I look, back to what I was saying before. I'd chosen long ago to live among human beings to study and learn. The circumstances to which I was born, made learning new things infrequent. Due to that, and a series of other circumstances that weren't within my control, yet I was expected to deal with, I left my first home to which I was born. Since then, I've never regretted my decision to leave the place, even if I do miss some that I left behind. Also, with that decision, I'd given up much that others would say I was a fool to let go of, but I would disagree. There had been multiple reasons why I took my leave from there… but, that's a subject I don't get into often. It's not worth it to me nor worth the time to explain my past or what it was like to most, for words can't get across how things use to be for me properly.
Still, I believe that I've said enough about me right now, let me begin the tale I'm here to tell. It begins on an island that's a distance off the mainland of Japan, which most people aren't aware it even exists. My purpose for being on the island, I was seeing a friend of mine who works for the group that owns the island. Currently, I was being escorted towards said friend's office for whatever reason, for I've been here a number of times, so I know the way. If I were to give a guess, then there are some who manage this 'outfit' or whatever one would call it, which are paranoid about things that could happen if they weren't in control. Not that I couldn't understand the feeling of being suspicious, I've seen enough of what some can and are willing to do to obtain what they want to know of the potential dangers.
The other clue that led me to believe paranoia was responsible, was the feelings I sensed and took in as I was traveling through the place. The emotions that I could feel, were heavy and nigh impossible to miss for me and of those emotions, stress and fear were present, but paranoia was the strongest that I sensed. It certainly wasn't a pleasant sensation to have flow through and around me. Such negative emotions aren't healthy for anyone, neither those who are feeling them or those who can sense them. The air felt nauseating for me to tell the truth and like anyone else, I didn't like the sensation.
My 'escort' was a tall burly man, the muscular bodybuilder type… in other words, the kind that tends to be more brawn than brains more often than not. There's always the chance that I could be wrong, it does happen, but still, I very much doubt that I am. Frankly, the situation was amusing to take in and increasing in hilarity as time went on. The man was silently trying to intimidate me, he was failing spectacularly unbeknownst to him. It didn't make the scene any less funny, made it more so if anything! But understand, I could have this man out on the floor in a second and not break a sweat, that's one of the things that made this amusing.
Nevertheless, I kept the feeling of amusement contained and let the man exercise his pride and vanity. Did so to be nice, but I say why not let people satisfy their urge and 'need' to feel like they're in control and have nothing to worry about? What's the harm in doing such I would ask? Besides, if I didn't, then I would miss out on some very humorous situations playing out and I won't say no to a good laugh, for it does wonders!
Within five minutes, my escort and I stopped outside the door to the office I was to meet the friend I was here to see. Before knocking and entering the office, I bowed in thanks to the man that was a guard I assume, to show good manners. I watched him walk away, smiling a bit and shaking my head slightly before I knocked on the door I stood before.
Shortly after I knocked, the door opened, and a young man stood in the doorway. He was five and a half feet tall or so and had grey colored eyes inlaid with his fairly streamlined facial features. He also had gray messy hair that hid a part of his face, was wearing his customary turtle neck style sweater along with sweatpants covered by his white lab coat. His name was Takehito Asama and is one of the close 'human' friends that I have still living. He had been a friend of mine for years, even if he's a scientist now rather than a researcher like he was working with me.
At seeing me, Takehito smiled, "Ashe welcome, glad you could make it my friend," he said, gesturing me in. I entered the front hallway the door opened into, then came out into a large workroom, though I heard Takehito closing the door behind me. Glancing around, I saw that the 'apartment' that Takehito lived in and work from hadn't changed since the last time I'd been here. The largest room, which I was standing in, was divided into three different parts; an office space, a workspace with medical equipment and an area that had a couch and chairs in a circular setup. The sitting area was next to where I stood, where the 'kitchen' was on the opposite side of this room. There was a door along the right wall at the far end of the room which led to a bedroom and bathroom, Takehito's living space.
Takehito came into the main workroom and I focused onto him, "The guard that escorted you here didn't give you trouble, did he," Takehito asked me.
The question acted as a trigger and made me unable to contain the amusement that I'd been holding in, which came out in the form of a fit of chuckling. The 'guard's' body language had been speaking a great deal to me and what it had been saying had made it difficult not to laugh. I managed to calm down enough to give a reply to Takehito, "Trouble you ask? Only if you mean the man made it hard for me to not laugh. I believe he was trying to attempt intimidation with me, that's what I got from him. Of course, if it came down to it, in terms of strength, I've more than any human being could possibly possess naturally. But it's that along with some other factors that make living entertaining over the years. Watching those who insist to remain ignorant and naïve has been interesting and it can be comical in so many ways."
I paused, before taking a breath and continuing, "Although, I can't say if that is true with these Sekirei you keep mentioning and telling me about." I gazed directly at Takehito in the eye, giving him a knowing look, "For oddly enough, whenever I come around to visit you, none of these Sekirei seem to be around for me to glimpse. My intuition says that you've something to do with that, what I can't figure out is why. But regardless, should what you say to be true, then it's possible some of them may be able to match a number of non-humans in various ways. With what information I have right now, I can't say for sure."
Takehito and I sat down in the sitting area, Takehito taking one chair and I took one of the others. We began a discussion on the work Takehito was doing currently and my views and opinions of it. The two of us had often used each other as sounding boards for ideas and other things that we involved ourselves in. It shows the level of trust that we had between the two of us, that we sought one another's views. I bring the knowledge and firsthand experience I've acquired over the time I've lived among humans. Takehito can see the world in such a different way than what most would call the normal view, that his perspective is quite interesting.
It was as a question came to my mind, that I strayed slightly from the discussion's subject matter. "So then Takehito, hope you don't mind if I ask a question that does not have to do with our discussion." Takehito nodded and I went on, "Do you prefer to work around and with aliens, or do you miss working with the unseen world that non-humans live in?" I paused and gained a flat expression, pinning Takehito with my gaze, "For I would hope that you haven't started doubting the existence of non-humans after all the experience you've had with them. Even if, those you work with now deny that there are no such things as non-humans and are only fairy tales and myths and can't possibly exist."
Takehito broke my stare before picking up a pile of papers and was looking over the top page as he answered me, "I don't doubt of the existence of non-humans as one is sitting across from me." My friend glanced up at me, "That's unless you have changed something about yourself recently Ashe," he said indifferently.
That last line sparked an amusing thought for there were many ways to reply, then there was also the possibility I could get some interesting reactions from Takehito. I've always thought Takehito needed to take more time to relax, experience levity and amusement. He so rarely does such even when he worked with me as he tends to be serious more often than not. So, why not have some fun with the opportunity that Takehito has unknowingly provided me? An old habit of mine perhaps, but I saw no reason to dismiss the habit. After all, I am known as a trickster and one who loves to get others to smile and laugh even after the trick. It's due to my enjoyment and fascination of the reactions from playing tricks and jokes on people I receive, it's so hard to deny. The art has become a game and even a bit of a sport to me over the years, I just can't help myself sometimes.
"Change myself in some way you say Takehito? You should know by now that I can do things that baffle the 'well-educated' and the 'brilliant'. I can change points about myself if the mood strikes me, perhaps you would like an example of it though you've had a number of them," I queried gaining a playful smirk while leaving the question open for a reply.
My young friend put down the collection of papers and stared at me for a moment silently. The expressions that were playing across his face told me that he was deciding whether he would take the bait or spoil a chance for me to have some fun. After a moment, Takehito sighed, "Okay, I'll bite even though I know I shouldn't as I know that you do enjoy playing tricks and pranks on others, and you're far too good at doing it. That said, what kind of example did you have in mind then Ashe," he replied in a somewhat tired tone that also had a slight bit of curiosity in it.
Oh ho ho ho, I get to have me some fun and hopefully get Takehito to have a laugh or at least drop the serious work attitude he has right now. I clapped my hands together and using magic upon myself causing a glow to surround me for a moment as my form began to change as I willed it to. My body shape-shifted from my normal male appearance into a very voluptuous feminine form that was the shape of an hourglass, which has had men become drooling and idiotic fools with little effort on my part before now. Nothing else about my appearance changed, my eyes, hair and skin tone stayed the same. My clothing shifted along with my body slightly, they were still a kimono, but a woman's style instead of a man's kimono.
Once the magic was done and the glow faded, I looked at Takehito and was satisfied to see him with his mouth gaping and words fail him for now. I smiled and gave him a wink, "Well then handsome, what do you think? Am I so beautiful that you lose your ability to speak as other men have before? Interestingly, this is not the first time I've taken on this appearance, I used it to seduce a foolish Daimyo during the Kamakura period. It was to assist the Hōjō clan at the time who were having issues back then," I said in a smooth soprano feminine voice.
Takehito shook his head hard, but I still caught the sight of a blush on his face before he got himself together. He picked up the pile of papers again and then hid behind them, "I knew I shouldn't have asked, because you use the opportunity every time you can. I deserved seeing you like this as I fell for your trick, so well-done Ashe, you got me. Still, I don't know which is more disturbing, you being able to change your gender at a whim, especially when I've known you as a man. Or the implication of your age from the historical time period you mentioned," he returned.
I let out bubbly laughter for a bit before I changed back to being how I was normally and shrugged my shoulders in response to the comparison yet said nothing. Takehito and I quickly resumed our discussion about his work. Any facts about what I've done in my lifetime or how long that life has been thus far, would not be up for debate as I don't go into detail about such. There would be too many complications that would arise in such a conversation and I would prefer not to deal with that.
Not too long after we resumed our discussion of the comparison of aliens versus non-humans when a knock came at the door. Takehito rose and answered the door while I stayed where I was though I wasn't idle. While Takehito was at the door, I leaned forward and glanced over the pages he had been looking over. Most of the writing and images didn't make much sense to me overall. It's odd, how some common words or those that once meant something else are now used to say complex things that I would think shouldn't be horribly complicated. Still, there were bits and pieces that did make sense to me, but it wasn't enough to really help me understand what the rest meant.
Yet, there was one thing that did get my attention and I focused in on it. At the top of the page, I was looking over, there's a date, today's date as it happens. I certainly hope that's not the day it's due or supposed to be turned over to another for something, yet it wouldn't be all that surprising if he's forgotten that working with others requires that you also have a common timetable.
My friend Takehito does great and amazing work, I'll be the first to admit that and it's to his credit. But that dedication comes at a price which for Takehito is that he forgets that things normally have a date they're due or a deadline. Missing those can make work harder for others, and for all that makeup Takehito's good qualities, time management is most certainly not one of them. And from what I am seeing, it would seem that remains unchanged, and I don't doubt that there are some frustrated people that Takehito worked with.
After a few minutes of waiting for Takehito to answer whomever, it was at the door, I heard him coming back towards the sitting area. Yet when I glanced over to see Takehito entering the large workroom again I saw that he wasn't alone. He had another in tow with him and the person caught my complete attention and that doesn't happen often… really it hasn't occurred since I met Takehito around a decade ago. The person in fact, was one of the most beautiful women I've seen in a couple of centuries!
The woman was under the average height range of the current era, slightly below five and a half feet, about a head shorter than me or so. She had a slender, yet respectable feminine body figure, which included shapely womanly curves. Her skin that I could see was smooth and fair white, not a single blemish. And on her curves, her chest was at a fuller volume than most human females reach that I see on average these days. Actually, I should rephrase that, your average human female doesn't have the volume this woman did without doing all manner of things to themselves in order to satisfy their vanity. Moving down from there, I saw that she had a synched waist that widened to form her hips, it made up a defined hourglass figure to be sure. The purple hair she possessed was unique in its shade and it didn't appear to be dyed, which was quite different. Her hair was waist-length with shorter bangs in a hime style, which I don't see much these days and it fits this woman somehow.
She was wearing a black skin-tight dress with long sleeves that went to her mid-thighs and had a grey haori hugging around her shoulders. Her outfit… didn't add to her beauty, more took away from it if you ask me but that's my opinion. The woman's red eyes could be considered beautiful and captivating, if not their empty and emotionless quality in them. They were the eyes of someone who has killed another, and I know the lack of expression well enough. I've had the look myself a number of times though I keep up a mask to not scare others, so such an expression rarely comes to my face these days. But back in times of war, I would have the expression often enough and I couldn't deny that.
And yet, her aura was what got my attention the most, it was unlike any I've felt or seen before and that's saying something like myself with what I've seen! It was simple for me to see that she wasn't human, nor was she a yōkai, mythical beast or any other non-human being I'd encountered. So, what she actually is eludes me for I don't honestly know, and it has been a long time since that's happened for me. Perhaps this is one of the Sekirei that Takehito has talked about? Hope I find out before this visit is done, I'm becoming increasingly interested to know more about this woman. I haven't felt sensations like I am right now for longer than I care to admit… that, and the pain that accompanies recalling the past, I would prefer to not dwell on it.
My face showed an expression of genuine surprise for a few seconds at seeing the woman. But I reestablished my calm composure quickly, and then rose from the chair and approached the two. Without hesitation, I took the woman's right hand and lightly kissed it before pulling back slightly and then looking towards my friend. "Takehito, you forgot to mention anything about having the company of such a beautiful individual. That's a point of interest my friend that is to be brought up, especially when I am around and can exercise the skills of an honorable gentleman. You should be ashamed dear man," I chastised Takehito.
After I had given a dressing down of proper courtesy and conduct to Takehito, I turned back and focused back on the lovely looking woman. However, she looked quite different from the first glance I caught and dare I say, even more beautiful than before. Her eyes were no longer devoid of emotion as a killer can be, but the eyes of a woman taken aback at being complimented on her appearance. I felt a smile form on my face at seeing this, "May I inquire as to the name of such a magnificent beauty as yourself," I asked with some of the well-refined charm I've gained during my lifetime.
The woman put her left hand to her cheek, which was gaining a pink hue in response, "Oh my, my name is Miya," she introduced.
I took a step back and bowed to Miya, "Ashe Hitoyoshi, humbly at your service Miya-san."
Miya's cheeks got even more flushed and were starting to turn red at my introduction from both word and manner. Then I turned to Takehito and spoke again, "By the way Takehito, don't take it personally but have you improved any with your issue involving deadlines and consistently meeting them?"
Takehito's face faulted, "Ashe, I know in the past I have missed a deadline or two, but would you please not make it sound like I'm horrible with time management," he replied.
Well, I didn't say that he was horrible with time management even though he can be sometimes. I was just asking if he had worked on getting over his habit of losing track and forgetting due dates, there is a difference. And a time or two Takehito says he's miss deadlines, as I recall he missed them around half the time. I ended out adjusting due dates to being earlier to compensate and remind Takehito regularly which had success. I gazed at Takehito with a bit of a deadpanned look, "Hmm, I seem to remember things a bit differently, but I'll let that go for old time's sake. What I was getting at my friend was the page you were scanning over earlier has a date. As it happens it's today's date, I would hope that doesn't mean that your habit of forgetting about deadlines has resurfaced once more as you imply that you've improved upon that."
Takehito rushed over to the table and looked at the page that I had referred to, his eyes widening as he looked at it, "Oh um," Takehito hesitated momentarily, "Sorry you two, I need to get these papers to someone," he said.
Yep, called it exactly right, Takehito hasn't changed all that much from when he worked with me in the non-human world. The only difference for him, I doubt that those here plan ahead with setting deadlines earlier to make sure Takehito gets things done in a reasonable amount of time. I guess it was too much for me to hope that his fault with keeping track of time had gone away. It was my friend's greatest shortcoming which is surprising as his dedication is very admirable and impressive. Don't get me wrong, Takehito is the nicest and selfless men you could meet, and it's to his credit. Still, no one is perfect, we all have our faults, and this was one of Takehito's.
And yet as Takehito was about to leave the room, he hesitated for a moment looking between Miya and myself. I instantly understood what was making Takehito hesitate, Miya and I were strangers to each other, but that wouldn't be the case for all that long if I have any influence in the matter. So, in response, I waved at him to go and hand off what he needed to, "Go on, I'll stay and provide company for Miya-san here until you get back Takehito. Now, run along and turn over those documents as you're supposed to do to whomever it is you need to," I instructed.
"Are you sure," asked Takehito apprehensively.
I simply shooed Takehito to go and so he did leave me alone with Miya. The woman had watched Takehito leave, then her eyes moved back to me, and I smiled slightly, "Please, I ask you to forgive Takehito. He has always had trouble with keeping in mind that time moves forward regardless if he notices or not. His diligence and dedication are some of his good qualities but keeping track of time that things are due is one of his faults. I've seen it enough over the years I've known him," I remarked to Miya.
She giggled softly to my statement which sounded wonderfully musical I must say almost soothing. Miya then gave me a smile that made… my heart flutter? I had all but forgotten what this sensation felt like, it's been so long since the last time that my heart did anything like this. The last that this happened around was when I was around… my apologies, I'm getting sidetracked, a story for another time perhaps.
"You seem very familiar with Takehito, yet I cannot recall him mentioning one like yourself," commented Miya.
I gasped at hearing that, to think Takehito hadn't mentioned me to those he's around and works with? It hurt a tiny bit to know he hasn't said anything about me… however, it does give a golden opportunity for me as well! There were many interesting things I could say to tease Takehito, not in a bad way mind you. Once I had decided what to do, I put a hand over my heart in mock shock and pain. "Takehito hasn't said anything about me? Oh, how could he not say anything about little old me? After all the time we've been friends and the things we've been through, for him not to even mentioned the simplest things about me to those he's around. How could he do such a thing? Why I remember the last adven-I mean trip to Kyoto years ago," I began, quickly correcting myself when I almost let slip the word 'adventure' as that had a different inference to it between Takehito and me at the very least.
To take the attention of the near slip-up, I went into the tale I went of the trip to Kyoto that in Takehito and I had gone on. The story involved Takehito and myself going off to check on one I hadn't seen for a long period of time. One of the older 'friends', so I do like to know if they are doing fine or need something. Said acquaintance was normally quite unsociable, they preferred to be left alone. Where I tend to be accommodating to other's preferences, I wanted to make sure they were alive and okay, that's a reasonable minimum I would think. This non-human person was a local legend around Kyoto and was a very rare type of creature, which is known as a unique type of Undine.
The reason the trip was so memorable, was when we had dropped in unannounced on my undine friend, she had a rather amusing reaction. Takehito would disagree with me on what had happened to be funny for he had… well, gotten rather embarrassed by the end. Granted, he had been ignorant and that had its price, and I've told him of that more than once. But again, as my friend was so unsociable and… also had a moderate fear of men, I suppose I do bear some of the fault. Anyways, the event had certainly perked up my friend and I did explain that was a good thing to Takehito as they tend to be depressed often enough. Miya listened attentively as I spoke of the journey my friend and I had made and seemed to enjoy the tale.
It was about twenty minutes later that Takehito returned and found to his surprise, both of us were talking avidly to one another. We had gotten on to other things after I had finished the tale of the trip to Kyoto Takehito and I had made. It was more small talk and wasn't anything of extreme interest, but a wonderful conversation nonetheless. It was genuinely one of the best conversations I'd had with a female in a long time. "I didn't think you two would be already talking like this," remarked Takehito, "And what subject might you two be conversing about with such energy?"
Oh, the time to tease Takehito has arrived! I glanced at my friend and grinned mischievously, "I finished up telling Miya about the 'research' trip we made to Kyoto a few years back before we began chatting. I got to say, my friend, I'll never forget that trip, it was very fun and entertaining. The way you got soaked with the water that was thrown your way, then the chase that followed, it was hilarious," I replied attempting not to laugh out loud, but couldn't keep in the chuckles escaping me.
Takehito gained a look of serious embarrassment, "You said you wouldn't bring that up again Ashe!"
I was about to reply by going into detail about why what had happened was so funny. Because of my undine friend had really given Takehito quite a hard time, but water spirits are known for being dramatic. The one we had gone to see is kind of unique among water spirits and so could be more dramatic than others. Yet, a fit of quiet laughter was clearly heard in the room and that caused Takehito and me to stop in our talk. Both Takehito and I turned to stare at Miya who was laughing at the two of us. I couldn't help but grin, "You have a very nice laugh Miya." I said.
"That's the first time she's done this," commented Takehito.
While meeting Miya had been a happy experience, one of the nicest things I've experienced for a long period, it came to an end. It was a shame that there was a need for me to return to the mainland of Japan after seeing Takehito. However, I'd given him the time I could spare as there was the business that I needed to see to. The event of meeting Miya may yet turn out to be something later, I can't foresee what could come in that respect. That event had caused sensations that I've not felt for a long time and that was something of note. So, I kept the memory of the meeting in my heart and returned to the responsibilities that I had.
Things returned to business as usual for me, which involves me basically running the northern part of Tokyo. I do more than that, unofficially I make sure that Japan keeps running smoothly from the background or the 'shadows' if you will. There are many that work and are loyal to me in the most unexpected places, it's how things are kept going smoothly. Still, I live in Tokyo as I have for centuries, even if some of those who live here in Tokyo, have begun to call the city Shinto Tato. I see no reason to call it by any name other than its original one, I prefer the old name of Tokyo myself. Although I used to have to take much more responsibility in earlier times, I personally deal with more the domestic and other non-governmental types of issues, along with things that come up between humans and non-humans. I let those who have the talent of running the government and what is involved with it, do that job.
Life settled into its routine, and six months passed by without much out of the ordinary. But oddly, during that time, I'd heard nothing from Takehito. I visit him from time to time, but he and I keep in touch fairly often. So, for me to hear nothing from him at all in six months, was unlike Takehito and worried me. The next time that I did hear from my friend, came on an evening that began like most do yet, had not remained normal. The evening had quieted down, and I was settling in for the night when I had gotten a message. A request had come from one I knew in the 'red light district', I rarely go to that part of town unless a real need is presented. Something had come up with an acquaintance of mine, who runs most things in that area of Tokyo and it had gotten out of hand. There had been a foolish disagreement with others, a mess that I had to clean up in the end. Even if my acquaintance is also rather good at manipulation, which helped settle the problem, but she needed my help to get things in order.
So, after the business was done, I'd been walking back towards the main shrine of Inari here in Tokyo to check in, before turning in for the night. I had met up with another yōkai along the way, who works with me often enough. It's nice to have company, it's one of the good and bad lessons one comes to know having lived as long as I have, loneliness is both nice at times and not pleasant at all at others. So, I came up with a spell to change others into non-human creatures some time ago and so, I've acquired the help along the way. Plus, it helps with the loneliness that comes when those you know passes away and that happens regularly for me.
The particular yōkai with me was a female and she'd been human before I changed her into a Ryuu, a dragon-type yōkai. She hadn't minded the change and it had been her choice at the time, for I was not one that forced a choice or decision from anyone. She was one of those that over the last couple of millennia, had been some of the humans that I had come across that had impressed me in a couple of ways. For those like that, I would extend an offer for them to help watch over things with me by changing them into the type of yōkai that fits them. And for this woman, it has been close to a thousand years ago when I gave her the offer if I estimate right.
I refer to this yōkai as Anya, though that wasn't her name by birth. The woman's name had originally been Aienya Kannagi and she'd been a member of a prominent family back at the time. The Kannagi family had been well-known for their talent and accomplishments in the arts of swordsmanship, along with strong users of fire magic. Members also had a habit and tendency to become Samurai for the ruling emperor, at least a few per generation. Of Anya's generation, she had been the best and was arguably one of the best warriors that the Kannagi clan had to that point. The clan lives in Tokyo still, but not in the north, I believe in the south if I'm not mistaken, I don't have much interaction with them.
However, before I'd actually extended the offer for her to become a yōkai, Anya herself along with others had been in a rather harsh situation. I had helped them out of it, as I was able to assist them. Anya had felt the need to repay me, even though I asked for nothing in return. So, when I had stated the offer to become a yōkai, she had accepted it without hesitation. Anya had gotten her affairs with her family in order, before leaving her human life behind and began following me. She has been unwaveringly loyal ever since, to which I don't fault her for, it was how she'd been taught.
As for what Anya looks like, she has an overall height that was just over five and a half feet standing. She was actually close to the same height as Miya now that I think about it. She possessed true crimson hair, not the orange that humans pass off as 'red hair', but real crimson shade colored hair. Said hair was waist length, and she tends to keep it tied into twin tails in the back, then in the front, it was unbound and straight. Anya's hair color was a unique trait that she inherits from her family, for it was a sort of trademark, as it's called these days for the Kannagi clan. Her face looked somewhat regal but appeared to be a tad rough overall, which has attracted many a man over the time she has been following me. Anya's eyes are the same shade of crimson as her hair and often drew attention from others. Her figure was one that most models would kill for, all her curves in what is usually considered the right places. And then, she was on the fuller and greater volume end of the bust size spectrum. Her waist was slim and formed out into her shapely hips, showing clear signs of her being very fit from the training with swordsmanship and magic that she still keeps up in. While her skin was white, it wasn't pale, comes from her Japanese ancestry.
Anya also had a dragon tattoo that wrapped around her left forearm and was defined, the envy of a number of people. She wore a gold bracelet around her right upper arm with a design that was meant to honor an old deity. Anya was wearing her customary qipao style of clothing, which had sleeves that went to her mid-upper arm with red lining around the neck and on the edges of the slit that started just below the hips. The piece of clothing was white and had a red star and circle design on the upper back portion.
"My Lord, what do you think about the human group that is coming into Tokyo and building that large tower in the center?" asked Anya as we walked along.
I was taken aback at the question. Currently, there was a large skyscraper being constructed in the center of Tokyo. It was being done by a company called Mid Bio-Informatics or MBI as it's more commonly called. It's the same growing conglomerate that Takehito was working for. MBI itself had risen out of nowhere in the last few years, ever since and by what Takehito says, once the company's founder found the alien ship the Sekirei were on. The man used that source of knowledge to make the products and methods that the company sells and uses. That information doesn't completely outdo what those of us in the supernatural have, but they are the closest to use science to do things that we do with magic.
"First, I've told you to call me Ashe and not my Lord, sir or inference of high status or formality unless it's concerning very serious matters Anya. As for the building and those putting it up, I can't say for sure at this point in time. It's not like a group of humans haven't done things of this magnitude before now. So, we'll keep watching for the time being," I stated.
Was going to say more, but there came a sound from a pants pocket. I put a hand in and brought out one of the devices that humans call a 'cell-phone'. Takehito had convinced me to get one of these devices that's a product of human science… it was so that he could contact me. The device did provide some fascination, and I had been curious as more and more humans had some form of this device with them at all times. I would think magic would be easier along with being more dependable. Yes, Takehito actually has the potential to do and use magic, tried to give him a lesson or two. My friend chose not to pursue the skill, which is a real shame and a waste, in my opinion, the ability to do magic isn't as prevalent as it has been in the past. Anyways, I opened the phone and put it to my ear, "Hello?" I said, still somewhat unsure as to how this object works completely.
"Ashe, thank goodness you picked up! I need your help," said my friend Takehito.
My friend's tone of hidden desperation caught my attention, for it wasn't like him at all. Plus, I hadn't heard from him for over six months, which had made me wonder what had been going on. Then for him to contact me out of the blue, I'm more than a little apprehensive, "Okay… What's going on and what can I help you with Takehito," I asked evenly.
"Some things have gone… not according to plan and so, I need your help leaving the MBI laboratory on Kamikura island," replied Takehito, clearly stressed.
I took a moment to consider what had just been said and what it implied, then what could be done. Takehito is special to me and I have so few that would qualify as that, to begin with, even fewer that are still among the living as I mentioned before. I didn't want to lose him anytime in the near future, "Of course, you should know that I would assist in any way that I can. Is there anything I should know before starting helping you out of your predicament," I inquired.
I might as well have as much information as I can get to know what I should expect in this, "Not that comes to mind right now, but the sooner, the better Ashe," replied Takehito before ending the contact.
Well, that was good enough for me to get down to helping Takehito out of a troublesome situation. Put away the cell-phone back into the pocket it had come from and turned to Anya, who was waiting for me to tell her what the call had been about. I wasted no more time and I told her that there was going to be work to do tonight and it would unlikely be the 'nice' kind. I quickly gave her a brief explanation of the circumstances that Takehito could and probably was in, while hoping that I can help him out of. Anya had no qualm with what I asked of her, fighting wasn't new to her, not with her time as a samurai, nor with her previous family teaching their members to be warriors and protectors. She simply nodded to show that she understood what I was asking of her and was ready to do what she viewed as her duty.
We quickly covered the rest of the distance to the shrine as that was where our journey would begin. The northern Shrine of Irina here wasn't only the oldest in Japan, but it's also one that's connected to what's known as the Astral Aurora. The Astral Aurora is a stream or flow of energy that flows around the whole world like any that can support life has. Its existence is known to those who are aware of magic. The Aurora is much like a river, the energy flow moves around and there even are some places in the world that the stream is visible to the naked eye. I believe one such instance is called Aurora Borealis or the Northern Lights.
Back to my point, the Aurora stream can be used for travel and I'm one of those who knows how to use it in that way. I can travel to different places in reasonable periods of time through the Aurora, much like humans use wheeled machines on the paved roads they lay, and I can also carry others with me should I choose. It is my intention, to use the stream to get to Kamikura Island where the Sekirei ship and the laboratory that's studying the ship is located. For me to use the stream and get to where I want to go in the shortest time, I couldn't do it as I am right now. Luckily, I can't only change my appearance in the way of gender or basic features, but I can go further than that.
So, I changed into the 'other' form I have but, don't use often for a couple of reasons, which are fairly obvious once one sees it. This form has me appear as a large silver furred, multi-tailed fox. My height goes from six feet to around four meters from the top of my head to the ground. Ten separate and distinct, bushy tails fanned out from my rear and gently waving behind me. My ears had elongated as did my muzzle and snout, my eyes had become gold rather than the light gray they'd been and were slit.
When my transformation was finished, I lowered myself to the ground, to have my belly touch and for my back not to be so high. I swiveled my head over to gaze at Anya, she got my implied message, and Anya climbed onto my back for the journey we would make. Once she was settled, I rose up to my paws and went to the center of the shrine grounds. There, I used the archways that were in a circular formation to enter the Astral Aurora.
We shot upward into the stream and I quickly reached the surface of the stream itself. Once I reached the stream, I set off in a brisk pace in the direction that Kamakura, for time is of the essence. The trip lasted around seven to eight minutes, and when the island was in view slightly ahead and below, I leaped out of the stream. I controlled the speed of my descent with magic so that I didn't announce myself with a loud crash when I land. Not to say that my landing was silent for it wasn't, but nor was it a resounding boom when my paws came into contact with the ground. I lowered myself to my belly, to let Anya off before I shifted back to my human appearance, yet I kept my fox ears and kept a number of my tails visible, though they shorten.
I glanced over at Anya and took note that she had one of her traditional Japanese tachi swords that samurai would normally be seen with at their sides. It was still in its simple sheath, held in her left hand for her to whip out. I focused my attention ahead of us, seeing the outline of the laboratory a little more than a mile from where we landed even in the dark. There didn't seem to be any reactions from those who are supposed to be guarding the place. So, either they didn't see our arrival, or they didn't think whatever caused the upwelling of dirt and ground wasn't anything to worry about. I neither sensed anything from the ship that caused me suspicion nor told me there were more issues than I had been told about already.
Both Anya and I rapidly closed the distance between the Sekirei ship and where we landed, it took us mere minutes. As we got within viewing distance, it was easy to see where each of the guards was standing, the majority of them looking bored. Anya rushed forward and put her combat skills to use by knocking out one guard after another, at a speed that was beyond the guards' comprehension. The disablement of the security was done, and no alarms were sounded to alert anyone else.
I had Anya stay at the entrance to keep watch and handle problems that might come since this was now a race against time. With that understood, the worries of threats coming from outside dying down, I set to the task at hand for me and entered the laboratory. The inside of the Sekirei ship was quiet and there was no one in sight at all. However, before I made my way to Takehito's apartment, I thought it would be wise to do one thing first, mostly so that there wouldn't be a blood bath in my path's wake. I cast the sleeping spell to deal with those here and were still awake in a non-violent way. The spell came in the form of a silver mist which was invisible to humans and I sent it on its way to do as I intended. And even though the mist wasn't visible, within less than a minute, the sound of bodies hitting the ground proved that it was doing its job.
The scientist and the others who work here, with one exception, maybe two were simply being put to sleep, and that would make it so, I wouldn't have to do something harsher to them to get them to not pay attention. I wished to avoid harming anyone here, so the sleeping spell was the best option available to me. Plus, the spell was more effective than any drug that humans have come up with thus far by a large margin. I waited as the sounds of bodies falling to the floor kept coming at random to my sensitive ears, which were swiveling slightly to take in all the sounds in the ship.
After a couple of minutes, I was fairly sure that everyone here in the corridors was out cold, so I started to make my way to Takehito's apartment. By this point, I knew my way around this place well enough to know how to get to where I wished. It took just a few minutes to arrive outside Takehito's office and I took a moment to conceal my ears and tails from view. There was a real possibility that Takehito wasn't alone and I'd no interest to explain what I am at this time to whoever could be with him. Takehito may already know that I'm a non-human since he worked with me before doing the job he does now, but those he works with that aren't loyal to me, don't know the fact. Plus, Takehito has the natural ability to be able to sense the difference between those who are human and those who aren't. It's a rare gift and makes me wish that Takehito had learned magic for as I said before, he has a natural talent for it.
When I was composed, I knocked on the door and waited for Takehito to answer the door. The next thing I saw was the door flying open and then, something that had purple and black coloration lunging towards me with a sword. On reflex, I evaded out of the path of whatever was coming at me, and whatever it was attacking me when past. I then, settled into a defensive stance, silver arm bracers and plated gloves appearing, ready to counter anything else that should come my way. My attacker whipped around to try and strike again, when we were both stopped by another, "Miya, stop," shouted the voice of Takehito.
The voice of Takehito caused me to halt for a moment and take a moment to reassess the situation. Upon scanning my surroundings, I noted a few things that I had not realized before. The first was that Takehito was just outside his door, and the second, Miya had been the one that had lunged at me with a sword in her hands. Her eyes and face were devoid of all emotion, showing no hesitation nor mercy in any way. I must say, this situation isn't what I would have had in mind to meet Miya again. Still, I gave her a smile, "Hello again Miya, it is wonderful to have the view of your lovely visage once more," I said in a calm voice, shifting out of my defensive fighting stance and dismissing the bracer and gloves as I spoke.
My greeting caused Miya to instantly change to the same young woman that I'd met the last time I'd been here. She lowered her sword before she put it in a sheath at her side. Takehito then came forward, "Thank you Ashe for coming on such short notice," said Takehito gratefully.
I inclined my head to my friend, "Think nothing of it, I'm able to help and so I do Takehito, it is the way I choose to be. But it would be best that we leave while we can and not draw notice," I remarked.
My statement acted as a trigger for the three of us to exit the ship, wasting the least amount of time. Anya fell into step behind me when we came out of the ship, saying nothing about or to Takehito or Miya, but then she doesn't question me often. We made our way to where I landed on Kamikura island, for it would be the simplest place to leave the island as well. And it was at this point, Miya learned that I undeniably not human, since I had to change my form to carry back my three companions.
To say that her expression was interesting, was quite an understatement. I say that with the idea in mind that those who do learn of the unseen world of non-human beings and are not members of it, either take it as the most amazing thing or that they're losing their minds. So, Miya's expression, which was a mix of shock and utter surprise was pretty satisfying to see when she saw me as a large silver fox. But then, meeting such an idea isn't normal and so what person wouldn't be shocked to some degree when facing a giant white silver furred fox looking down at you. It's not something you imagine seeing even one in your lifetime, read about it in fantasy may be, but that's all. My lips did curl upward, and I let out a series of huffs, puffs, and grunts, that's what laughing tends to be like in my fox form. And as I said before, Takehito has already seen me as a giant multi-tailed fox, so he didn't have the same look.
I took them back to the shrine from which Anya and I left back in the north of Tokyo, from there, I led them back to the place I consider my home. The house is a classic two-level Japanese house with typical paper walls and tatami flooring. It is simple yet functional and that is the way I have worked to maintain it over the years I've lived in this place. The second floor had sleeping quarters for tenants when I did have them, which I didn't have any at this time. The Kitchen and living room are on the first floor among other rooms. Three of those could be made to be sleeping quarters if needed and there was the master bedroom that I used myself of course.
The reason the house I lived in was empty as it's a transition period between tenants. People come and go, and the variety of the type of people that come around here would shock many, especially some of the more unique individuals that have been through. I've had some that were at rock bottom when they came to Izumo inn and left in the complete opposite situation. I have also had people that have come to hide from others for things they've done or were accused of doing so there had been a wide variety.
Miya was glancing around curiously at the interior of my house when she entered. I assume that she'd never seen much outside the Sekirei ship if anything at all, so didn't say anything. Takehito had been here before, it was more when he worked with me, but still, he had been here. I had both Takehito and Miya sit in the living room as there were things to be discussed on both sides. I was curious about what had been happening for Takehito to have to contact me for help as he did. "So then Takehito, what has been going on for the sudden change to occur that you needed to disappear," I asked.
Takehito frowned at the question, "I've told you that the plan that MBI had for Sekirei was to observe them and their interactions with humans and non-humans even if others have no idea," he started.
I nodded, "Yes, you mentioned something to that effect as I recall," I remarked.
"Well," said Takehito, "That has begun changing as of a few weeks ago, you see," he started.
Takehito gave me an accounting of an event that had occurred and Kamikura Island a few weeks ago. At the time, there had a military force which had no identifying markings who assaulted the island. There had been a little warning to their arrival, but it was likely that the head of MBI Hiroto Minaka making an announcement sparked the event. The man had announced he had made a 'momentous' discovery that would change things.
I've heard individuals like the man before, tooting their horn of how great they are or what they do is. The information that I have gotten on Minaka told me his ego was vast and the larger an ego the more insufferable the individual tends to be I've found. Most like that are ignored after a bit if given any attention at all, they set themselves up for their fall. I saw Hiroto Minaka no differently, he would bring his own fall soon enough and would be remembered as a fool.
Back to the attack on Kamikura Island, to counteract the force invading, Minaka and others sent out the five Sekirei that were awake and capable right now to deal with the force. Miya had been chosen as the leader of the five that would defend the rest there on the island. According to Takehito, the force was massacred and proved the strength that Sekirei could have. Where I could understand the actions and though I didn't like the results, it can be considered self-defense in a way. It would have been better for Minaka to have kept his mouth shut and not announced what he did, but that is irrelevant now.
Up to that point of Takehito's story I had said nothing, merely listened to my friend's accounting. But then when he got into what happened after the massacre, my mood began a dive downward. "After the force had been," Takehito hesitated, "dealt with, everyone was heading back inside the ship. Along the way, Minaka said what a good performance the five had shown and how my adjustments to them were good. He then said something about how such adjustments could be applied to fighting."
I could see that Takehito didn't like the comment that Minaka had said, it had been like saying that his work would be best used for the work of war and death. That irritated me to know that Minaka had considered Takehito's work and a drive was best used for the work of death and war. But things hadn't ended there, Minaka had kept going on from that comment and things had descended from there.
Apparently, Minaka had gotten the idea in his mind for some kind of 'game' that involved all the Sekirei. As Takehito explained it, the game would be a contest where the winner would be the last one standing. It sounded far more like a war to the death to me, and that is as horrible as it is wrong. Meaning that after basically being told how efficient his work was at killing, and the future possibility of that being made worse, Takehito knew he couldn't keep helping Minaka. That said he had begun planning his escape from MBI for he wanted nothing to do with 'Minaka's game'.
Hence, Takehito contacted me for assistance in escaping from Kamikura Island and disappear from MBI's notice. Miya had also been helping Takehito trying to get away from MBI's ideas for according to her, her duty was protecting the other Sekirei. Those working for MBI under Minaka did not have the Sekirei race's best interest in mind from what Takehito was telling me. And after hearing Takehito's explanation and knowing the kind of person he is, I was angry that some idiot would have him use his skills and gifts for the purpose of hurting others. And then to use such for the interest of entertainment among other things makes it even worse.
Then came my turn to tell about my part, which involved how I knew Takehito as Miya didn't know. I had met Takehito when he was in his teenage years and he was brilliant back then too. He had believed in the supernatural then and figured out that those who didn't couldn't see non-humans. The history that was made between Takehito and me from then to now was a series of unusual events which was for Takehito's research. Then came the time that MBI offered Takehito a position to work for them saying they had something they couldn't explain. He had taken the job after taking some time to think about it but still kept in contact with me.
The subject on my end wasn't the most pleasant for me as I don't like to get into details about myself and the explanations that are involved are long. I see details about myself are no one's business other than my own and those I choose to tell, that's my standing and I've stuck to it for a long time and intend to for the foreseeable future. However, Miya is one of the few to see one of my true forms… it's complicated, so I didn't really have a choice if I want to be nice and well-mannered and I do strive to be.
I did explain a bit to Miya that I wasn't human and briefly told her about Youkai and some other non-humans. And then for some reason, I felt the urge to tell Miya some of the truth about what she had seen with me. Miya seemed interested in the subject of non-humans, for what reason that was the case I couldn't say. My only guess is from what experience she has likely had around those employed by MBI other than Takehito has not been the best. However, I didn't ask for details about her experiences as it seemed a sore subject.
Miya, to her credit, took what I told her well, the majority of people who find out about the existence of non-humans, take it as I said before, one of two ways. Either they embrace it as true and think it's one of the most awesome things, or they think they're seeing things or losing their minds. The only the notable exception to the two are children but they are special in ways that adults are not. Most that do witness the unseen world around them and talk about to others, get seen as and labeled insane It might be a rather mean or harsh view. But what many humans don't apparently comprehend, they don't need to know everything. Whoever it was that said, 'ignorance is bliss', they're not completely wrong though nor are they fully right but possessing no ignorance… let's say it's torture in ways that words can't say.
At the end after the discussion, I couldn't say no to both Takehito and Miya staying here at the house, nor would I by this point. So the two began living at Izumo Inn which is the name of the boarding house I have. Thankfully, things shortly settled back into a routine and peaceful times came once again. None from MBI came around or even showed signs that they cared that Takehito had disappeared nor be interested in finding him and it was the same for Miya.
Chapter end
A/n
And that's where I'll leave off for chapter 1 which is different than where it ended before. The next two chapters will be new to the story and it will make sense when you read them why I added them. So, please some of you take the time to write a review or PM me to tell me what you think or ask questions that you might have.