Sekirei: Battle of the Gods

by Blackshadow999

Hiroto Minaka thought the Sekirei and what came from their space ship made him a God. But he didn't know of the world that was unseen, yet hidden in plain sight. How long can that last and how will Sekirei do against those who have been around for longer than them? Read and find out! Currently being redone.

8. Ripples of Change

A/n

Normal disclaimer applies, only own my characters and ideas, nothing else of what I work with, they belong to the respective creators. Now, on with the story once more!

Chapter 8: Ripples of Change

-Ashe's pov-

I found myself in a heavily wooded area surrounded by thick vegetation which I wasn't familiar with. It was odd to find myself in a forest area that I haven't seen like this, for it did have vegetation that was native to Japan. And I've explored most if not all of the forests around Japan and quite a few in China and yet, this one wasn't like any of those I've visited. This forest was overflowing with life and though places like this do flow with life naturally it is not to this level. Be that as it may, I enjoy being in forests for it brings to mind happy memories and warm feelings of times long ago around my original home and other places. Plus, I was curious as to what this place was and why I had come here without intentionally traveling here.

Intrigue gripping me now, I started walking forward, looking around while musing in my mind about if this was a simple dream or if this was something else. This was not happening in the real world at the moment plus, I didn't feel that I was in any kind of trance which normally comes with seeing visions of the past or potential futures. And if this was a dream of mine, then I would have expected to see Miya here for she tends to be in my dreams much of the time along with Kai. However, I spotted neither of them nor any signs of my family, not any of those I consider family, so I was quite puzzled what was going on.

After forging a path forward for a time, cries of a young girl came to my ears faintly. For a moment, I tried to figure out what direction the crying was coming from, but I was unable to do that with "human ears". That being the case, my fox ears popped up and I used them to home in on where the crying was coming from since they have better sound pick up. It didn't take me long to narrow the direction that the sounds of sorrow were coming from. I've always disliked hearing children cry since I've always had a soft spot for children, their innocence and faith attract me as I have always wished to protect those like that.

I drew closer to whomever it was sobbing and came out into a clearing that had one large tree in the middle. In that tree was a seven-year-old girl on one of the limbs hugging herself to the trunk. She was taller than Kai, but then she's older than him if I'm estimating right by her appearance. The girl also had long dark gold-blonde hair that went beyond her hips and she was wearing a simple white dress.

Overall, I had to admit, the girl was very cute and the impression I got from her was similar to the innocence I feel from Kai. And yet, tis curious that a girl so young would be out here on her own, especially since she was clearly in distress. Now, it wasn't the first time I had come across a child that was on their own and no one helping them. Many of the children that I had taken it and raised had been in situations like that. However, no matter how many times I see children on their own crying for help in some way and they be ignored, it hurt to witness. So, I hid my fox ears, mostly so I didn't accidentally scare this child I wish to help, I avoid doing so when I can. Then, I made my attempt to help her, "Hello young one, why might you be crying? Perhaps I can be of help to shew away the sadness that has hold on you," I asked kindly.

The blonde girl stopped sobbing and sniffling a bit, then she twisted to look down at me, her cheeks were red and puffy. At seeing the girl's face, I found her face added to her cuteness and I smiled at her in hopes that it would show her that I'm not going to hurt her. She still appeared to be scared, but not of me specifically, so of what I couldn't say. I could see nothing, nor hear anything that would be threatening her around or sense anything. Yet, I also felt the urge to hold her and comfort her to the best of my abilities which I do with many children. That being said, I held out my arms towards her, "Jump, I will catch you, I promise you that you will have a soft landing my young friend," I said to the girl.

The girl's response was to hug the tree more after I offered to assist her, which wasn't what I expected. That caused me to pause, I folded my arms, a hand going to my chin as I thought for a moment. But it wasn't long before I had an idea of what I could do to convince the child that I wasn't anyone to be scared of. My idea began with me letting out one of my tails and have my fox ears pop back out, "Come now child, you are not frightened of a cuddly canine like myself are you," I posed soothingly.

The girl turned and gazed at me again and when she saw me this time, she gained an expression of surprise and awe. She just stared at me and I found it cute as I watched her eyes lock on to my fox ears which were swaying and twitching a bit at random. Then, her eyes flick down to where my single tail was swishing slowly at my right side. I stretched my arms out again and used a trick I had done with Miya before, and it has yet to fail. I tilted my head to the right a little bit and made my fox ears twitch a bit more, "Woof woof, yip yip," I barked sweetly.

A big smile quickly grew on the girl's face when I'd barked, "Doggie," she cried in a happy tone and leaped towards me.

I kept my eyes on her as she sailed towards me, I moved forward a bit and caught her in my arms, maintaining my balance. The blonde girl hugged me tightly when she came into my arms and I returned the gesture back. After a bit, I did coax her to look at my face, "There, is not it better to be down from the tree so that we can talk to each other face to face? Now let's start with names, mine is Ashe, what is yours," I inquired.

The blonde simply stared at me, "Kusano," she replied softly.

Kusano huh, that's interesting but cute, I wonder if there's some special meaning behind the name. And yet for some reason that even I can't explain, the name feels like a perfect fit for this girl for some reason. I did chuckle a bit, "Well Kusano, it is nice to meet you," I greeted.

Kusano gave me the kind of smile that Kai sometimes does when he's with Miya and me, and it brought warmth to my heart. Then Kusano raised herself up reaching for as you might guess my fox ears to touch them. There's nothing wrong with doing that, I would be kind of surprised if she hadn't tried touching them or at least asking if they were real. Upon touching and petting them, she gasped, "They're real," she whispered with awe.

I nodded, "Yes, these furry ears of mine are real," I began, but didn't get to say more as some unseen force pulled Kusano out of my arms and the two of us apart.

She cried as the distance between us increased, I reached for her hand but missed it as she was pulled away from me. The scenery faded into black, and when I opened my eyes, I found that I was in the master bedroom in bed with Miya. I sat up and went over what I just had experienced for it had been more than just a dream. It had felt more like a vision, but not the exact same as those I've had before… it was puzzling. Such doesn't happen often, even visions don't come frequently, so what I saw with Kusano stuck out to me.

There came a stir to my left and Miya propped herself up on an elbow looking at me, "Ashe? What are you doing up so early," she asked rubbing her eyes.

I twisted to Miya and gave her a loving smile, "It's nothing to worry about Miya, I just had an odd dream, they do come from time to time," I answered.

I lowered myself back to the futon mattress deciding to not worry about what it had been I'd seen for the time being. But I was unable to forget completely about Kusano, the image of her face as she had been pulled away haunted me. She'd had an expression of fear, sorrow, and desperation, that mix had stabbed at my heart. There was not enough information for me to do anything for Kusano at this time, but I would be watchful. Helping children has always been a habit for me, it is a part of my nature and one of the good parts. And one that had helped me make it through the hardest times of pain and sorrow.

Miya followed my example and I drew her into my arms cuddling her to me to help the worry about Kusano faded to the back of my mind. The two of us fell back asleep for a few more peaceful hours before we started the day. A normal day now starts with one of us making breakfast and the other waking the tenants in some way. We switched off who did one daily and it was my day to wake the tenants and with some, I've had to get a tad creative. Matsu is the hardest to wake, worse to keep her awake, but that is her problem and not mine.

And so, I began the rounds to check on Izumo Inn's tenants while Miya started preparing breakfast for all of us. The first room was Kagari's, he was the only one on the first floor which was assigned to a tenant. I found him asleep and I believe he got in late this morning from his job at a host club which has him working during the evening and nights. I have no complaints about Kagari's job since the rent he pays early is very helpful for maintaining the boarding house. I did give a curt wakeup call to which Kagari groaned and rolled over as I moved one to the next tenant's room.

After that, I headed up the stairway and came to the first room, which belongs to the freeloader. Matsu's room was quiet, and when I peeked inside, not only did I cringe at the mess, I also scowled at finding the redheaded freeloader out cold on her futon. My guess is that she'd been working on those computers of hers most if not all of the night sucking down power in ridiculous amounts as is now a standing habit of Matsu's that drives up the power bill. I could only exhale and shake my head at the sight of the most troublesome tenant Izumo Inn has currently. Snuck into the room and pulled out the collection of cords that powered the computers thus stopping their power consumption. Matsu isn't using them, then why leave them to consume power for little to no reason I say.

With Matsu's room done, I went to Uzume's room and upon glancing in, I noted that she was still sleeping, so I gave her a wakeup call. Then I moved on to the room Minato was in and upon opening the door to the room, I was greeted by a rather unexpected sight. There were two futons as were laid out last night, but one still looked unused. The other, held Minato and Musubi, the girl in a loose button-up dress shirt while Minato was in t-shirt and sweatpants. Musubi was hugging Minato from the back and the boy was out cold. As I sniffed the air, I caught a whiff of the scent of blood, and when I moved forward, I saw a small pool of blood below his nose where it had likely come out from.

One has to feel sorry for this boy, the clear issues he has with women is pitiful to witness especially with how kind he is. The way Minato has grown up and been raised is I believe to blame for this shortcoming, at least from the information that I've learned leads me to think that. When Minato was growing up, Takami hadn't been at home much, have the strong impression that she had been keeping Minaka away from them and I don't blame her. However, whenever she had been home, the woman had been tough on her son whether intentional or not. But, for that to then produce the shortcoming that Minato has with woman, it's not what I would consider good parenting in any way contributing to your child's issues that will do serious harm to them in the future.

Anyway, I woke up Minato and once he was able to look at me, only half awake then, after he woke up more, Minato looked down and saw Musubi still hugging herself to him. Once Minato took in his position, his head snapped back up to look at me with an expression of panic, "Mr. Hitoyoshi, this isn't what it looks like!" he said quickly.

Before I could give a reply, Minato's situation became more amusing when Musubi roused and then proceeded to happily cuddle up with Minato probably without thinking. Miya does the same thing on occasion which I do enjoy and treasure each time she does. It is my understanding, Sekirei will naturally show affection to their chosen ashikabi and there is nothing wrong with that. To show that you care about another is a good thing, but there are bounds of what is acceptable and what is not of course. However, that's not the point, Minato didn't mean for this to happen, nor is he a pervert and I know that.

So, I waved a hand dismissively, "It is fine for today Minato. I am aware that this isn't an event that you planned to happen, you have shown yourself to have more integrity than that. So, I will give you the benefit of the doubt and not call you out on this. Nonetheless, I will say that you're lucky for today that I'm the one checking in on you, Miya tends to be much less understanding than I am," I reassured Minato before I turned and left the room.

Once breakfast was consumed, Minato went off with Musubi following right behind him, to go fetch his things from his previous apartment. Miya and I cleaned up breakfast while Uzume went to see her friend at the hospital. So essentially, Miya and I were left alone since Kagari and Matsu were still sleeping as they hadn't shown up to the meal. I took advantage of the opportunity to sneak up behind my wife who was working on airing out the bedding. My fox ears out and a few tails quivering behind me, I tiptoed up to Miya before covering her eyes, "Guess who," I posed.

Miya giggled, "Hmm, I believe my charming fox," she replied.

I drew my hands back and Miya twisted around, "Absolutely right love," I returned before we embraced each other.

Miya and I soaked in the warmth we felt being with one another, my wife smiling broadly. After a little while, we came out of our embrace and I assisted Miya in cleaning and airing the bedding. I hid my fox features before Miya and I finished the job and much of the other housework while Minato and Musubi were collecting Minato's things. When the two returned around two hours later, I had to pause at the sight of Musubi carrying a rough sphere that was a little over three feet in diameter by what I could see through the front door. I simply stared for a moment for the scene was fairly comical as well as quite unusual.

Yes, I'm well-aware that Sekirei are much stronger than humans are naturally, it can be the same for a number of non-humans. However, there are just some Sekirei which are better at showing the difference than others and Musubi is absolutely one of those. After getting over seeing the scene that portrayed Musubi's strength, I guided them to the same room that they had stayed in the night before as it would be theirs from this day forward. Then, I stood aside to allow the two to enter the room and observed them. Not that the scene needed to be any more humorous than it had been before, but Musubi got stuck in the door or rather the bag she was hauling did. Musubi gained a forlorn expression when she realized that she had stopped, "Minato-sama, I got stuck," she said in close to a whine.

Hearing Musubi speak like that, I was forced to exercise effort not to laugh as it was extremely funny! Miya came upstairs and stood next to me and observed the scene playing out of Minato trying to help Musubi to get unstuck. I heard her begin to giggle as Minato was trying to get Musubi unstuck and when she started, I couldn't stop the quiet snicker that escaped me. It had been a long while since there has been a tenant who was not only ignorant as Musubi but also as much an optimistic fool and I mean that in a good way. Still, tis better to keep the company of a happy fool than an unhappy fool. The happy fool will spread happiness while the other will drag those around them down to unhappiness like they themselves are experiencing.

After a moment, Miya moved forward and helped Minato get Musubi to back up and then organize the contents of the bag before it was wrapped back up. Then, when Musubi tried going through the door, she made it with little room to spare. Minato was breathing hard as I waltzed into the room, I saw Miya was looking at Musubi and then she made a comment. "Musubi, was it not?" she asked, to which Musubi nodded, "you're quite strong, aren't you?"

Musubi nodded harder, plastering a big smile on her face, "Yep, that's because I'm a fist-type Sekirei," she stated proudly.

I was attempting to decide whether to go and pat Musubi on the head and tell her that she was adorable or hold my sides and let the laughter come out. Then there was Minato's reaction which was just as funny as Musubi's own, just in a different way. He was freaking out after Musubi spoke even though there was no reason to do so. But, Miya merely giggled again, "What a funny girl you are Musubi."

A chuckle did at this point escape me, "I would have to agree, a very creative imagination she has," I added, then concluded, "Although, such isn't a bad thing to have for an individual."

Minato calmed down once we dismissed that Musubi had said she's a Sekirei since supposedly Minaka has forbidden the reveal of that information or something like that. Honestly, it's the musings of an idiotic fool in my view and that is Minaka in a nutshell really. But then, I know of different beings other than humans, so aliens are not shocking to me. I told Minato to come down to the living room when he was ready to discuss the terms of his contract for living here. Then I took Miya's hand and we left the room, heading back down to the ground floor. Miya went off to do things around the house while I went to one of the sofas and waited for Minato.

It took around fifteen minutes for Minato to come down where he and I began talking about the expectation of becoming a tenant here. Minato had no issues with the two rules that Miya and I had for our tenants and I hadn't foreseen any problem with how Minato was. The issue came with his ability to pay rent which wasn't good as things currently stood. And where I would normally have little issue with a tenant with the mentality and work ethic like he had having issues paying, I'm forced to reconsider at this time. Minato's funds with the 'allowance' he gets from his mother are not enough for the minimum rent here.

As Izumo Inn already had one freeloader staying as a tenant, that makes another non-full-paying tenant strenuous. It is complicated further as said freeloader is taking far more than her fair share of the monthly budget, more like closer to three tenants' share of the monthly budget. So, I can't just gain another non-full paying tenant and change nothing and expect things to be fine. It's because of the absence of rent from Matsu that taking in Minato is a more complicated and difficult decision. Matsu's harsh drain on resources was currently made up from the other tenants' rent right now and that was barely enough for the moment. Izumo Inn can't really afford a further drain on resources without in-flow to compensate, I have to put my foot down.

Nevertheless, me being the kind of person that I am, I informed Minato that I would see if I could arrange a job opportunity for him. I did have a few ideas, but I would need to talk to others before offering a job opening. Minato merely needs to increase his income and then that should meet the needed rent and that is simple enough. Minato was more than willing to work as he quickly agreed to try any of the opportunities that I could find for him. The issue with Matsu was something I would have to deal with and confront, but that doesn't involve other tenants.

By the time we were done discussing his contract, it was close to lunchtime and the inhabitance here were gathering. At least, two out of the three other tenants appeared on the ground floor. Kagari was fine, he has proper manners and sense of modesty, Uzume is another story as seen by the current state of her dress. All she had on was panties and a 'skimpy' top, and the sad thing was this was not new with her. I completely understand that every individual has their faults, but that shouldn't mean that they flaunt them shamelessly.

For example, Matsu had horrendous habits of hiding, spying, and taking up resource without care of what it did to others. I had seen evidence of each fault with Matsu and they irked me and were doing so increasingly. Yet, Uzume is either nearly clueless and doesn't seem to be aware of social accepted modesty, or she simply doesn't care about it. Which one it is doesn't really matter to me were I truthful for in the end, it makes little difference. Either education or disciplining will need to come in and curb these actions of Uzume for these displays are annoying and becoming more so the longer they keep occurring. Miya and I had been attempting to help Uzume to recognize the issue, but she hasn't shown any improvement. The woman had been really getting close to the line that were she to crosses that line, there will be consequences.

Minato didn't react all that well to Uzume's state of dress, he just covered his nose and taking deep breaths along with looking away. Miya, on the other hand, moved forward and began chastising Uzume for her improper appearance. I let her attempt to talk sense into Uzume, but the brown-haired Sekirei, instead of being embarrassed, began flaunting herself. I ended out shaking my head due to the futility I was feeling at seeing Uzume waving off Miya's chastising. I've had tenants that pushed the boundaries before now, but most of them understood that there were things you didn't do around the house or in public. If they had difficulty understanding what are dos and don'ts, then they were given warnings and that was usually enough. But some of the current tenants are seriously pushing into the ocean of patience I have with the things they do.

The next thing that came to my ears was Musubi saying that she would let Minato do anything he wanted to her. The problem was that Musubi meant what she said though I doubt she really comprehended what she was stating or what it involved. Musubi was too much an airhead to understand what 'anything' can actually imply. Although something tells me that she wouldn't deny Minato were he to ask to do intimate things with her.

I glanced over at Minato and saw his nose was dripping blood now. I rose and moved behind the young man and I gave a smack to the back of his head. "I would recommend that you try hard to keep your thoughts away from the gutter Minato. You do not want to risk breaking the second rule of this house and get kicked out of here on your first day, do you," I posed in a flat voice. Minato shook his head vigorously, then I rounded to face the cause of the current situation. "Uzume, march yourself back to your room and put on proper clothing immediately," I said flatly pointing in the direction of the stairway to the second floor.

Uzume looked at me, "Oh come on Ashe, this isn't anything to be worried about," she replied, but she stopped as I gained a deadpanned expression.

"Should you continue to waltz around dressed as you are right now, you risk a contract violation, and I doubt you wish to do that," I stated flatly.

Uzume quickly headed to her room, and I faced Musubi, "Musubi, lunch still won't be for a little while, why don't you take a bath and get cleaned up."

Musubi nodded and went off to the bathroom while I oversaw the cleanup of blood that Minato had let out to the floor. Oh, I know he had tried to prevent it, but the sight of Uzume had just been too much for poor Minato. Blood had come out and it is best to clean blood as soon as possible, it stains otherwise. Once Minato was done, I suggested that he go sit out on the back porch and get some fresh air to help the blood release he just had. He agreed and did as I recommended him to do while I, on the other hand, went to the kitchen and began helping Miya with making lunch for all of us.

We had lunch nearly done when a commotion was heard from out in the backyard which sounded like fighting to me. Miya looked to me with a questioning expression, to which I shrugged, not knowing what was causing the commotion. I had been here helping my wife prepare the meal, and unlike what some may think, I do not know about everything that goes on. So, both of us stopped what we were doing and headed to the back porch to see what was happening, Miya still carrying a pot lid and a ladle she'd been using. We were met by the sight that… well, it wasn't what Miya, or I expected.

Uzume and Musubi fighting one another, both of them were wearing just a towel around their bodies and nothing else. There were no clues as to the reasons why these two were fighting, but such it didn't matter to me. The first rule here is no violence in the house or the grounds of this property and that rule was being ignored. That by itself would be bad enough to have to happen and would normally be easy enough to handle. However, with both women being naked if not for the towel wrapped around themselves was just unacceptable as such falls under the second rule here.

Musubi had rushed forward in the motion of punching Uzume when Miya appeared between the two and used a pot lid to block Musubi's fist. Meanwhile, I moved to be a short distance behind where Uzume was, able to step in as needed. Miya followed her block up with a whack from the ladle on Musubi's head, though it was made of wood, the ladle hit with audible force. "A girl regardless of age shouldn't be going around in just a towel, have you no shame," posed Miya firmly.

"Understood Landlady, I'm sorry," replied Musubi humbly while clutching her head.

Uzume had taken to hiding behind Minato as Miya had chastened Musubi, "Serves you right, you're in trouble now," shot Uzume in their direction, sticking out her tongue at Musubi.

Do my ears deceive me, or is Uzume thinking that she isn't in the same kind of trouble? I decided that it was time my voice was heard, "Now don't think you're not in trouble Uzume," I spoke up and the girl stiffened before twisting around and viewed my displeased expression. "For I can assure you young lady, you most certainly are not innocent from where I stand. In fact, I would say you're in the same kind of trouble since it takes two for conflict and you are also just in a towel as well Missy." Uzume cowered behind Minato as I took a step closer, "And lest you forget, I remind you for the second time today that you signed a contract in which, you agreed to obey the rules of the house. Dressing modestly falls under the second rule as you should understand by now, but you seem to have difficulty with."

"Please wait Landlord, it's not like that! I didn't want to fight, she started it," shot Uzume back to me pointing at Musubi.

Who started a fight matters not to me, so using such as an excuse is meaningless with me, I hold those involved responsible for what they do. "Who started the conflict is of no consequence to me however," I said louder, to get everyone's attention. "As this is the first official offense and technically, neither Miya nor I said specifically that modesty was included under the second rule, it was merely assumed that it was accepted and understood. So, for this one time, the trespass will be ignored with the hope it does not get repeated as such won't be ignored easily. Do I make myself clear in this, Uzume, Musubi?"

Both females nodded vehemently in acknowledgment, "We understand, thank you for your kindness and your patience Landlord," both said at the same time.

Things settled down and the day returned close to normalcy, and little else happened until evening fully fell. After dinner was done, I thought it would be nice to take a stroll, and asked Miya if she would like to join me yet she said no. It wasn't unusual for Miya and me for taking walks in the evening or day, so it is a nice pastime. But she is free to refuse, and I'll go out alone for walks are one of the way that I clear my mind and heart of negativity, and bring peace of mind. And with what Minaka is doing, I really could use some peace of mind, it would keep the man alive longer as well.

After I accepted Miya's answer, I headed out on my own taking my journey wondering southward with no particular destination in mind. I passed few along my journey, none of them even noticed me but that was normal for me especially when I went out alone. The reason that tends to happen with me is due to the illusion spell that I keep up, which makes me unnoticed unless I'm interacting with an individual. I've found intrigue in simply observing humans as they went through their lives but not being involved directly. It is an ever-changing thing observing humans, no one is exactly the same as another and the way they interact with each other is always different.

Eventually, my walk brought me into a park that I have come through before, and it is somewhat close to the college in Tokyo, the same one that Minato is attempting to get into. Even if it is humans' attempt to have nature around them, it does feel nice to be close to such places for they do bring to mind places that I've been. Also, I do have an affinity with nature and do like being around it when possible as it has a harmony all its own that is very pleasant. Then there are the good memories that have occurred in places where nature resides that I have experienced.

Yet, as I walked along the pathway through the park, it was quiet and devoid of anyone else which quickly caught my attention. In the times I've been here before, there were a small number of people normally couples wondering around, but now there was an eerie silence in the air. I quickly came to a halt and looked around seeing that it wasn't only the path, but the park as a whole was empty. Now, that wouldn't exactly make me wonder what was going on, if not for not just the absence of human life, but also non-human life as well as being mysteriously missing. It was odd as only the plants here gave off any sign of life and right now it was like something was choking them which isn't natural.

At confirming the whole park was vacant by what my senses were informing me, I started attempting to figure out what could be the source of this. Nothing stuck out to me from my observations other than the air was a tad colder than it should be during this time of year. It took a few moments for me to feel a single presence which I drew closer to hoping that could potentially help explain what was going on. However, the closer I drew to the presence, the stronger a feeling of sickening negativity came washing over me.

-Akitsu pov-

I, Akitsu Sekirei no 7 had no reason to keep going on now. After I had escaped from Teito Tower, I had come to a place where there were many trees and there was no one else around. I no longer cared about there being anyone around, my life and world were coming down, the end was upon me. It was all because of the one who was doing my adjustments had ended out taking away my capability to be winged by my ashikabi. I cannot find or bond with my ashikabi, so what reason does my life have now?! Others had said they would do their utmost to fix what had been done to me, but they had all failed.

I almost think it was a mistake to fight back against the man that did this to me, he might have killed me and released me from this suffering I'm drowning in now. Even though it felt kind of nice to hurt him as he had done such a horrible thing to me. And while I may have escaped MBI's Teito Tower, but what is there for me now?! I'm useless and have nothing to look forward to now without an ashikabi or even the hope of finding one.

I'd found a wooden seat, the bench I think it was called, and I sat down on it bringing my knees to my chin. The pain within me was in constant motion and it only seemed to get worse as time kept moving forward. There was no purpose for me to be alive or exist any longer, not with my ability to be winged by an ashikabi taken from me. Why do I suffer? Is that all that my life is meant to be, suffering without end, complete misery? Why can I not sleep forever dreaming of the ashikabi I'll never be able to have?

"Excuse me, are you alright Miss, you look," there was a pause, "rather unhappy about something. Perhaps you could benefit from a listening ear and words of empathy," a male voice asked.

I was somewhat shocked to hear another speak to me, but I was far too miserable to show shock or surprise. Still, I looked up at the speaker and saw a man that was taller than me and I suppose what others would say is attractive. His hair was silver-grey, a different shade than I'd ever seen before with any that worked for MBI and his hair fell straight down to his neck. The man's eyes were light grey and held my attention for a moment, but I couldn't understand why. His clothes were unfamiliar to me, I'd seen something like them in the instruction material that MBI provided for the Sekirei. The question is why would this man waste the time on something as worthless as me?

I glanced around and behind me expecting to see someone else that this man had to be talking to other than me. But, when I saw there was none other than me, I was further confused, the pain and suffering I felt confirming to me that I was worthless. I turned my head back to the man looking at him but not seeing him properly before speaking the thoughts that were going around my mind. "I'm broken… no one wants me… I'm useless… I have no purpose to exist," I uttered, cursing the truth of what I had said.

I believed that the man would go away, after all, why would he spend time around one as broken and useless as me? "I highly doubt you are as you say," said the man. I glanced back up at the man and saw he was smiling at me for some reason. He put a finger to his chin, "As for being 'broken', I believe I can undo what has been done to you should you so desire. I would think that should help and would be a start on the path forward to better things for you."

I blinked at what had just been said, he could undo what the MBI scientist did to me? Is that even possible? If he could do such, then my life could have a purpose again. Yet, how could he undo what has happened to me, all the scientists at MBI said that nothing could be done. If they couldn't fix what one of them had done, then what hope was there for someone else being able to do so? The pain and misery came down on me again, making sure I understood the truth of my situation. I was broken, I was useless, and nothing could change that no matter how much I wanted that to be false. "That is impossible, no one, nor anything can help me. You shouldn't waste time on me, I'll never find them," I admitted with deepening sorrow, tears forming at the corners of my eyes.

Every other Sekirei could have an ashikabi, yet I would always be denied such happiness forever. Why were things so unfair?! Why do I have to be made to suffer being denied an ashikabi when others do not? The tears coming from my eyes kept flowing, as I felt so alone and left to suffer until I stop existing.

I sat where I was feeling miserable expecting that the man to continue on to wherever he was going and leave me behind. A period of time passed before I felt something change. It was as if a weight had been lifted off of me that I didn't know I had. There was a tingling sensation that came to my forehead where the curse mark had been placed. I touched there expecting that like the times before I would feel the horrible cold sensation, but I didn't feel that at all. Not understanding what this all meant, I rose and moved over to the fountain that was close by. I looked down at the water and saw that my reflection showed that the mark on my forehead was gone, there was nothing there at all. "The mark it-it's gone," I questioned in disbelief for I was told that I would always have the mark.

"Yes, as I said, what was done to you I have reversed along with the effects that came with it," the man said. "Thankfully, the damage was still fixable and so, you can leave behind the misery that has been weighing you down. What was done should have never happened in the first place and please, do not think too poorly of those that did what caused your suffering? It is the fault of those they are forced to listen to and they will be punished when justice come and claim her dues," the man stated right behind me.

A hand of the man touched my shoulder as he continued, "I pray you forgive me for not introducing myself earlier, my name is Ashe Hitoyoshi. What do other people that you have been around call you other than a number," 'Ashe' posed.

"Akitsu, I am known as Akitsu," I uttered, still confused at what had happened to me.

The feelings of pain and misery were fading from me saying that Ashe did what he had said he could, and had fixed me. He patted me on the shoulder gently, then as I looked back at him, he had twisted around to face away from me. "Well, it was no trouble at all to help you out, think nothing of it. I am glad to be able to help lift the burden of misery and sorrow from you," he replied before he began walking away from me.

The farther he got from me, the more my heart clenched, it had been beating faster than it had ever done before moments ago. The thought that if this Ashe Hitoyoshi left my view, I would forever regret it was firm in my mind. Feelings of panic, desperation, and fear of the unknown filled me and the need to stop him came to the forefront of my mind. "Please wait," I called, my voice holding tones of the feelings running through me. Ashe did stop and turn back towards me, and that gave me a sliver of courage to start making my way forward towards him on my knees. "Please, you did what no other could, be my Ashikabi," I pleaded.

Ashe appeared to hesitate at my plea, still I kept closing the distance between Ashe and myself. The closer I came to Ashe the stronger the warm feelings that were coming to me and these feelings were unlike anything I've experienced. I wanted to feel these feelings more, if this is what it would be like to have an ashikabi, then I would do anything to have this! Ashe's face was blank, "I am not saying no, yet understand, I have neither an interest nor an intent to participate in the 'Sekirei plan' that is currently going on. If that is what you want an Ashikabi for, then I'm very sorry to have to tell you that I can be of no help to you in this. I refuse to be a part of such an event that only sows misery in the end for the participants so that its author can be entertained," he said flatly.

I felt a shot a fear, that he might reject me and not be my ashikabi! I did not care, nor really understand the reasoning that was used to explain the Sekirei Plan by anyone, not even Professor Minaka. I shuffled forward and hugged myself to Ashe's legs tightly unwilling to let go of this man. "The Sekirei plan doesn't matter to me! Please," I got out, betraying how scared I was that he would reject being my ashikabi. "I beg you," I said in close to a sob looking up to Ashe, tears coming from my eyes, "Please… please, be my Ashikabi."

I clung to Ashe, hoping and praying that he would accept, I don't know what I would do if he said no. I cared not what he thought of me appearing as I did for humans apparently either dislike one that would appear as I or they would take advantage of the individual. After a moment, Ashe gave a small smile before he gently broke my hold and then bent down to my level on the ground. "Very well Akitsu, with your heartfelt plea, I cannot do much else but accept your wish to become your Ashikabi," he returned.

I stared at Ashe for a few seconds processing what he had said, then as it sunk in, I felt a feeling that I couldn't mistake for anything other than joy. He was accepting me as his Sekirei, I would have an ashikabi at last. I acted on the impulsive urge and threw my arms around his neck leaning forward and sealing his lips with mine. The feeling of emergence was the best experience I'd ever had before, indescribable joy filled me. My wings burst forth from my back and they felt warm, in fact, they became warmer as the winging ceremony continued. I couldn't help myself but push forward pressing my body against Ashe, seeking the warmth that came from him. Ashe encircled me with my arms and held me as this incredible event continued, and I wished it not to end.

When I did pull back from kissing Ashe, I slid my arms down and wrapped them around his torso and hugged my ashikabi. My head came to rest against his neck, which felt so comfortable feeling the happiest I have ever known. I couldn't put into words how having an ashikabi be mine felt as right as it did or produce the feelings it did within me. After a little while, Ashe brought me back up to a standing position though I didn't let our embrace be broken by the movement.

-Ashe's pov-

This woman, this Sekirei that was now in my arms was somewhat a mystery to me due to the lack of experience I have with Sekirei that would be considered mine. Granted, she was attractive with her short light-brown hair and her grey eyes which complimented each other. Her body shape was a tad fuller in volume than Miya herself was, but it was not by much. Not to say that makes a difference or encourages me to… oh, how is it referred to these days? Ah yes, cheating on one's spouse which is something I would never do to Miya. She has done more for me than any other I've ever met and that is why she will always have a special place in my heart. But a healthy figure is not a bad thing to see and Akitsu had that going for her, there was no denying that.

Honestly, I'm more surprised that she hadn't been raped by another while she had been wandering about, sadly it happens more these days. For she was wearing only a doctor's coat that had blood stains on it and that was it, that could be vastly improved. Now, I've seen people in blood-stained clothing before now, and they had it on for one of usually two reasons for being in such. The first reason was that they killed someone recently, or the one that women tend to have is that they were assaulted, most of the time sexually in the act of rape. There was no sign that Akitsu had been raped and that is usually pretty clear with the marks and the emotional trauma that shows.

The Sekirei mark had now appeared on her back between her shoulder blades, and she appeared and felt much happier than she had been when I had encountered her. One wouldn't have believed that the hollow and miserable woman that she had been was the same one that was hugging me now. The urge that I had to wish to help her to forsake the misery that had been shackling her down had been one I felt inclined to follow. The result of doing so made the work of fixing her internal energy flow that had been so out of whack well worth it. Her soul had cried out to me begging to be rescued from the torture it had been going through. It is something that I can sense with others whether I want to or not, the pains of the soul as they are.

No, I hadn't expected to wing this Sekirei when I had first come across her, I'd simply wished to help her give up the negativity that was clinging to her. I had put up a barrier to prevent any from MBI finding out what I had been doing originally, but now it was to stop them knowing the Sekirei I wing. The less MBI knows the better in my opinion as they already cause enough trouble, why give them more opportunity?

Why Akitsu affected me as she did, I know not for it is similar yet different to how Miya affects me. Truthfully, only in recent weeks had I been around other Sekirei that weren't Miya, so I have only what I have been told to go off of. And the interaction between Sekirei and potential ashikabi is a subject that there is little information about even with MBI. Where I find interest in knowing new experiences, this one comes with potential complications too.

It isn't a nice thing to be reminded of what had been done within MBI as Nina had told me about a situation that had involved the winging ability of a sekirei. And here before me was the result, and how horrible it much have been for Akitsu for the winging ability is crucial to them. To do things that were 'to test' how much strain and abuse it can handle before it breaks and then just leave things broken is wrong. Granted, I had fixed the damaged done to Akitsu but magic had been pretty much the only avenue to do it aside from divine power. Things that can do such shouldn't be done just because they can be, and that's the mentality Minaka has and why it irks me so. Yet, I had told Akitsu not to blame those that had done the actions that had led to what happened to her. They could be innocent in this and were just told or threatened to do what they had, it wasn't uncommon within MBI especially with Minaka at its head.

The winging process itself with Akitsu had been different than what it had been with Miya though there were some similarities. Close to the same warmth had come even if it wasn't as strong as it had been with Miya. However, Akitsu had ten cyan colored wings where Miya had twelve lavender wings, but both had their wings had been intertwined with the magic seal that is mine. We'll see if there are any other similarities that come up going forward, I can't say.

Now, Akitsu stayed in the embrace we were in, so I just kept holding her to me. She had been through an ordeal that none should be given and I felt sorry for her. Still, there was a feeling of warmth and joy that came after winging Akitsu and stayed in my heart. It had come close to having my fox features coming out on their own during the winging process, but I had managed to prevent that from happening. Really, I don't know how I would explain that one to Akitsu, the time would come later on I suppose.

Honestly, I really don't know what to do in this situation for when I had winged Miya things had been completely different than this. There had been a series of events that had led up to Miya's winging and both of us I believe had been ready for it. Sekirei are still fairly new to me and so I know little about them as a species. This is the only other intimate experience I have with a Sekirei that was considered mine aside from Miya, the others are strangers or tenants. After a bit though, I brought both Akitsu and I back up to a standing position even if the embrace remained unbroken. Akitsu seemed unwilling to separate from me for the time being, so she stayed exactly where she was. And I saw no issue with Akitsu being where she was at the moment, I can't say how long that will last.

The answer to that question came within minutes with the sound of footsteps coming to my ears. As I turned my head in the direction of the sound, I spotted a teenage boy and a man next to him. The boy was slim and of average height with brown hair and he was wearing a type of formal outfit that was white and had a ruffle at the neck, came from foreign places if memory serves me right.

The man next to the teen, was tall, had lighter silver colored hair than my own, and it was of medium length. He had grey eyes, and of course was a Sekirei. His clothes were made up of black pants and a long sleeve black shirt and the shirt was open in the front down to a few inches below his solar plexus. Also, she had a belt that sat at his waist which sat slightly askew where the belt rode on his left hip. The last two things of note were the orange scarf around his neck and shoulders as well as he was carrying a sword.

Akitsu took notice of the two interlopers even if she kept her back to them, but she clung to me a little tighter than before. I felt fear coming from her, but also defiance, it made me think that she could know something about these two, hard to say. The boy focused on me, "You there, it's time for you to leave, I'll take care of her," he ordered in a cocky voice gesturing at Akitsu.

There were many things about this teen that irritated me just from the one sentence he had spoken. The air and why in which the teen had said the line was arrogant and prideful a ridiculous combination. It was used by the types of individuals that I would get a bit of a kick out of teaching lessons to in the past. It's mostly because I don't get along with arrogant fools, they always cause issues for everyone else, hence why I never have gotten along with them and never will. The other things about the teen, he was speaking in such a way that he was giving me an order, and I don't allow others to believe they can order me around as they please without consequences.

Really, this kid was coming off more like a spoiled whiny brat, and I've encountered enough of those to know what I'm talking about. Whiny brats are annoying enough but can be managed and educated out of what they do a good portion of the time. However, with spoil a whiny brats that is much less likely and they become harder to tolerate and their action may get killed in the end. And like many spoiled whiny brats, the kid was treating Akitsu as an object or property that he possessed ownership over because he wanted her. Such views are downright wrong in my book to the point that it's a crime and it will not happen while I am around. So, I shifted Akitsu's position to be behind me making it easier for me to defend her.

Anger did flare up in me for a moment, but I reined it in as snapping at the ill-mannered adolescence would do nothing. Nonetheless, I won't be silent, "Quite the mouth you have young man, and quite the ego to go with it too. Clearly, you have much to learn when it comes to proper manners, which I suppose tends to happen during adolescence. Then, for you to believe that you can order me like you are superior to all of those around you only reinforces your serious lack of manners and common sense, it's quite unfortunate. You should show some respect to one of your elders as you demean yourself when you do not," I remarked evenly.

I took a deep breath before I continued, "Still young one, for your information, if I should leave, then Akitsu will be coming with me and not going with you. Furthermore, it is late and little boys like you should be heading for bed. I would guess that it is likely past your curfew at this time of night, so run along and go home. If you are lucky, then you might still get to your bed in time for your mother to tuck you in and even tell you a story should you hurry."

The said teen didn't take my answer well in fact, he instantly got mad with what I said to him. "You… an adult like you can't tell me what to do," the kid shouted stamping a foot.

Yes indeed, this one is a spoiled whiny brat, and I dislike being able to tell that so easily, it sets up for the disgust of deal with such individuals. It should be embarrassing for this teen to throwing a temper tantrum over not being given what he wants. He is portraying himself as a whiny little brat that hasn't grown up from being a child and that won't gain anything. I mean, Kai is better behaved than this kid and he is at least a decade younger than the teen in front of me if I estimate right. And no matter how many times I see it, complaining or whining never helps so doing the idea is pointless. I had a hand rubbing my temple in minor irritation with how this kid was acting, it was stupid.

The kid after he had fume for a minute, pointed a finger at me, "Mutsu deal with him and then get me that Sekirei," he shouted in a demanding tone.

Were the Sekirei an average adult, they would either scoff at the kid and tell him to hush or just refuse him. "Roger that," answered the male Sekirei before he started towards Akitsu and me.

I certainly wasn't in the mood to be nice or exercise patience towards this kid or his companion any longer. I'd had already given them patience and tolerance when I told the boy to go home, so I will give them no more. My right hand formed into a fist and a metal plated glove and forearm brace appeared over my right forearm and hand. I focused on the approaching Sekirei and gave him an icy glare, "Should you listen to the spoiled brat that's been ranting, you will regret it, that I promise I will then discipline the brat that needs to learn manners," I growled in an emotionless voice.

With the lack of emotion in my voice, along with the magic imbued in my voice sent my intentions home. My warning did get 'Mutsu' to stop where he was, I observed him and saw that he had shivered slightly at my statement which happens often when I'm like this. And rest assured, I could beat this Sekirei leaving him in a messy heap and would do so if that was required to protect Akitsu. She had found her way to me for whatever reason and that's all that needs to be stated. She had become a member of my family and so I will not see any member of my family put in danger or abused.

The kid was only proving to me why the Sekirei Plan as Minaka had made it is so wrong. He saw another as less than an individual, saw nothing wrong with using them and then tossing said individual away. For a Sekirei to be winged by force is just as bad if not worse as it is on the same level as a violation of virtue. To have that type of action be seen as nothing to be concerned with and even be permissible in any way, shape, or form will not stand and will be accounted for in future.

I was settling into a fighting stance when the whole situation and air changed in an instant. What I think really surprised all of us was Akitsu coming out from behind me and moving to be in front of me instead. She had the clear intention to defend me which is flattering even if unnecessary. The problem in my view was Akitsu didn't seem to either be aware of or perhaps didn't care enough that coming out in front of me also meant she exposed herself to the two. And when I say exposure, I mean that she was still only in the doctor coat and that did little to cover her body, especially when it fluttered away from her. "No! He is my Ashikabi and you will not hurt him," she exclaimed firmly while 'icicles' began forming and growing around her.

Were a fight to occur, I know that I will be able to settle the issue, it would unlikely be pretty but that happens. Yet, Mutsu backed off eyeing the lengthening icicles that had sharp points on one end that were intended for piercing. The male Sekirei then turned and grabbed the brat, "Mutsu, what are you doing," the boy demanded.

"We lost the chance, she has found an ashikabi Mikogami, accept that and let's move on," said Mutsu.

As the two left, the kid stuck his tongue out at me as if to prove the brat is what he chose would be expected to do. I rolled my eyes and shook my head grumbling, "What a spoiled little brat that kid was. I haven't had to deal with that type for a while and I don't miss tolerating them, they are annoying as can be," I muttered to myself in slight disgust dismissing the glove and brace away with magic.

Akitsu spun around and clung to me again muttering that I was her Ashikabi and a few other things. As for me, when she had thrown herself at me again, the coat around her shoulders had fluttered again and this time parted from Akitsu leaving her naked. I let out a soft sigh as I'd seen that it wasn't Akitsu was improper or anything like that. She just didn't know any better at all that exposing oneself was not a wise decision to make. So, I petted her head ruffling her hair as a smile came to my face at her behavior as her innocence and ignorance was kind of amusing.

It took me a bit of time to convince Akitsu to let me go as she seemed to be more interested in sticking close to me. But once I did, I slipped out of my outer robe that was over the shirt and pants I had on and wrapped Akitsu in it. After all, I don't want her walking around naked and the bloody doctor coat isn't all that much better. Without the outer kimono, I was left in black martial artist-type pants and a blue silk short-sleeved 'Kung Fu' shirt as it's called, which had knotted clasps up the front, traditional Chinese attire that I have become fond of.

Akitsu pulled the robe I had put on her tighter around herself and seemed to be… sniffing it for whatever reason, I decided it would be better I not ask. The point was that Akitsu wasn't in a blood-stained lab coat that did little to cover her body nor was she bare, so she wouldn't unknowingly tempt lowlifes to assault her. Plus, I wouldn't have to then educated and discipline others of the hazard of sick practices were they to attempt to harm Akitsu. I put an arm around Akitsu's back, "Shall we go home," I asked kindly. She looked to me and nodded in answer while blushing ever so slightly and began following me as we started off.

We left the park and began heading back towards Izumo Inn taking a different route than the one I came here by. We did pass by the Arboretum garden Tokyo had built close to a decade ago as we went. Miya and I had gone through the garden and we had found it to be a pleasant place to tour on some of our strolls. However, the recent news reports I recall had been saying that there had been a sudden and unexplainable growth of the plant life to the point that it was out of control. The way the report had been putting it sounded a tad outrageous as plant life usually doesn't do what was being claimed without outside assistance.

But one glance at the place showed that the report hadn't been an exaggeration for the plants were forest like if not thicker. The growth I was seeing was definitely not a natural occurrence there had to be something else involved. And by what I understood, the methods attempted thus far to control the growth had done nothing to the plants. That was another sign that there was another force at work giving the plants the life and energy they were showing. Not that I'm concerned by this at this time, yet maybe in future, I might have to be.

I was going to walk past the garden and keep going home with Akitsu for there was the need to introduce her to Miya and tell her what had happened. Yet, as the two of us were in front of the entrance, a feeling came to me that I should… no, needed to go into the botanical garden. It was sort of like something or someone was calling me and if felt familiar somehow, but I couldn't place the feeling of familiarity. I couldn't dismiss the feeling for some reason either as it nagged at me quite insistently. Curious as well as wanting to know what was calling me, I turned and entered the garden without further hesitation. Akitsu following behind me without questioning me about what I was doing or why.

Upon entering the garden, I instantly noted that the number of trees had increased along with the variety of them since the last time I was here with Miya. Interestingly, I can even say that some of the plants here shouldn't be here as they aren't native to Japan. There were even a number that would die in the current environment as it was, yet all were thriving more than they would during their peak growing season. It was rather odd, the life energy that is present when life is around was exploding in amounts that aren't naturally found except in a very select few places in the world and none of them are around populated areas.

However, there was an air of fear here that I couldn't miss, and the farther in Akitsu and I went, the feeling of fear became heavier. Akitsu and I wandered around among the trees for a bit, until we came upon an odd and unacceptable scene. A short distance before us, there was a young-looking woman that was a Sekirei standing near a tree that was alone in this clearing. She had brown hair and eyes, wore a black gown with gloves and stockings to match, with a red ribbon tied around her neck. She was wielding a scythe and by the way she held it, she had some experience with the weapon.

Across from the Sekirei, was the very same little blonde girl that I'd seen last night in the strange dream or vision. Yet now, I could see that she was a Sekirei when I couldn't determine that during our first encounter. Kusano was once again up in a tree and hugging the trunk as much as she could, and the air of fear was coming from her. I would assume that whatever it was that was scaring Kusano had something to do with the other Sekirei being here. My assumption was confirmed when the older Sekirei moved forward, closer to the tree, "Come down little girl, I promised my Master I would bring you back, so I shall. You will serve him, and you'll like it," she said.

That line alone made my blood burn and it went beyond just irking me since that was akin to saying that one will be enslaved and they are to like it. In fact, after hearing that, I shot forward towards the older Sekirei and reached her in less than a second even with the distance being fifteen to twenty meters. I appeared right next to her, both my legs now in metal plated guards covering my shins. I then swung a leg around in a roundhouse movement and the shin guard solidly connected with Sekirei's midsection. My strike sent her flying and crashing through the trees on one side of the clearing screeching as she went. After the departure of the scythe-wielding girl was done, I brought down my leg and both leg guards vanished, then took a moment to regain my calm composure.

I faced Kusano who I saw was still trembling up in the tree, and the urge to comfort her came to me. Striding forward towards the tree, I observed Kusano was quietly crying as she clung to the tree and seeing that tugged hard at my heart. No child should have to fear for their life or their freedom, that is a fear that they should never experience! Unfortunately, this kind of scene was one that I had seen from time to time, children crying out of fear mostly during the conflict, but other times as well. Many of the faces of those children flashed through my mind, but they were quickly followed by the smiles of those same children finding happiness after I had assisted them. Those thoughts had me decided that I would do what I could to help Kusano so that I could see her smile. When I came to stand before the tree, I painted a comforting smile on my face, "We meet again Kusano, I'm very glad that we do," I greeted kindly.

Kusano heard me as she twisted around to look at me brushing her eyes clear first. When she saw me, her expression changed to a mixture of hope, I couldn't miss the feeling emanating from her when she had seen me here, which led me to believe that she recognized me. That was proven when I heard the girl whisper one word, "Doggie?"

Next thing I knew, my fox ears flipped up and out of my hair on their own accord though I did prevent all but one of my tails from appearing. Said tail rapidly started wagging behind me, which doesn't happen often and this all came with the feeling of unexplainable happiness had started to fill me when I had seen Kusano. This had only happened with Miya thus far… though it had come close in the last hour with Akitsu. I don't know why maybe it has something to do with Sekirei that wish for someone like me, there isn't enough information to say for sure. My smile broadened, and I held out my arms, "Indeed it's me, Woof woof, yip yip," I answered.

Kusano smiled widely before she leaped from the tree towards me as she had in the vision. She sailed through the air and into my arms hugging me with her might, "Doggie! Doggie! You're really here! My wish came true!" Kusano sobbed as she clung to me and broke down a bit, "I was so scared! That mean lady hurt auntie Takami and another, not her, but another mean girl tried to hurt me when I didn't do what the other with them wanted. Then the mean lady, she came here to try to take me back to their master." I held the blonde girl to me as she cried, but she wasn't finished, "I wished for you to come and help me with all my heart!"

What Kusano had said made me curious about several things which had apparently brought her here. How is Takami involved with this and who is the ashikabi of the Sekirei I sent flying? They need a serious talking to about their activities and the wrongness of them. If I need to do chastising, then it will be harsher and likely precede hand them over to be justly punished. Hunting a child, Sekirei or any other species is sick, wrong and evil period, there is nothing else that should be said. Whoever they are, they should be ashamed of themselves and what they do. For Takamagahara's sake, the person should be registered as… oh, what are they called these days… ah yes, sex offenders, such used to be referred to as scum by most!

Anyways, they should be registered as such before they're hauled off to prison to have the hope of reforming themselves. Whether a Sekirei, human or non-human; to kidnap, enslave or abuse a child is wrong, PERIOD! But it was obvious that Kusano was in no state to say more right now, so I filed away what she had said for mulling over later. I continue to hug her and hope to comfort her as she cried as I'd done for distraught children before. The feeling of unexplainable happiness had grown a large amount once Kusano had come into my arms, I don't know why, but that's what I felt. Yet, I was also angry at whoever it was who put her through this treatment, likely for their own interest in controlling Kusano through winging her.

However, my attention was shifted as the sound of footsteps and snarling came to my ears. I hid my fox ears and tail before securing my protective hold around Kusano for I would not let her be harmed! Through the hole, I made when I kicked that other Sekirei came the same woman and her expression was of fury. She was enraged and since it was me that had been the cause of her bad mood, her murderous glare was directed at me. I stood my ground and gazed back at her, my face shifting to being devoid of expression. I wasn't about to let this Sekirei take Kusano from me and to whomever her Ashikabi was so that they could wing and then use Kusano as they saw fit.

"HOW DARE YOU INTERFERE, YOU INSIGNIFICANT PEST," the older Sekirei screeched at me.

My eyes changed over from how they normally were to being slits as a beast would have in one blink though it was unnoticed. Still, I merely kept my face the way it was as she screeched at me, and when she stopped, I put in my piece. "Says the one that was trying to kidnap a child to take her to a bas***d and scum that would use and abuse her. It is not going to happen while I'm able to stop you Missy, so be on your way," I returned.

Rarely do I use profanity, but I will use it sometimes to refer to those who are lower than low to accurately describe them. And trust me when I say I know a lot of profanity, it includes extremely colorful words that don't get used in these modern times. But even though I don't know who this Sekirei's ashikabi is, from what I do know, they are among the worst type of person there is, so I will refer to them as such.

My statement only seemed to incense her more as she stamped a foot, which brought back to mind the spoiled whiny brat. "My name isn't Missy, it's Yomi! How dare you call my ashikabi a bas***d and scum. Then she," 'the mean Sekirei' shouted jabbing a finger at Kusano. The girl clung to me more in fear, "Should be grateful that my ashikabi wants her, and she can be useful! Now, hand her over to me and I'll let you live after I beat you thoroughly for what you did!"

Okay, I don't know whether to laugh at the thought that this girl thinks she can beat me after taking the kick I gave her for I hadn't been gentle with it. Or scoff at how she believed that she was in control of the situation when she wasn't. Her blustering was sad and pathetic… most of all, it was hot air as I could beat her with little effort, all it would take is a single spell. Honestly, I wouldn't need to use magic, I could defeat her fighting hand to hand and I was toying with the idea.

Still, better to show maturity and set things straight, "Your Ashikabi is disgusting scum for even considering kidnapping and enslaving a child regardless of species. Kusano shouldn't be anywhere near such a horribly behaved individual so your Ashikabi will not have her. And I say it again, it's in your best interest for you to leave for you will get hurt should you be foolish enough to stay and face me," I stated in close to a growl.

The next thing any of us knew, Akitsu put herself between Yomi and myself, though the opposing Sekirei that had it out for me, didn't seem to see this as an issue. "Finally, Mikogami sent you, now this can be done and settled," said Yomi.

That name… so then, this Sekirei probably belongs to the brat I encountered earlier this evening, how unpleasant. Understanding that explained a number of things, both from what 'Yomi' and Kusano said and it certainly lowered the already bad view I had of the kid. Still, as time passed, Akitsu stayed where she was and that got Yomi to understand that something was off from what she thought was happening. "Why aren't you facing the other way? That man is our target, so take him out but don't hit the kid," she commanded with little confidence.

A sigh escaped me, and I decided that it was time I speak up and set the record straight, "Akitsu is with me Missy, she will not do as you say. Although let me ask you, this Mikogami you mentioned, is he in his teens, slim with brown hair, speaks with an air of smug arrogance a good portion of the time," I inquired, wanting to confirm that the name belonged to the one I met earlier.

Yomi appeared surprised at my question, but she nodded, "Yes, he is, why?" she asked me suspiciously.

I am right then, so much for hoping that the one we were talking about was not the same I thought they were. I shrugged, "So it is the spoiled whiny brat that I had the displeasure of making the acquaintance of earlier tonight. The kid left a rather low impression of himself I'll have to admit. Quite the spoiled little brat of a boy as I refer to him as lacks anything one can truly consider manners. He is a prime example of what happens when one doesn't learn and experience what being denied things is like," I replied.

The girl growled at me bringing her scythe to the ready to attack me, but she didn't have the time to attack me, Akitsu made sure of that by forming and then sending icicles at her. Yomi dodged most of the ice and used her scythe to stop what she didn't avoid, she also appeared to be getting angrier at how the situation was going. I whispered to Kusano to hold on to me and things would be okay, then I shifted her to being on my back. A moment after I had done so, I was forced onto the defensive when Yomi rushed at me. The glove and arm braces appeared on both my arms, and I deflected and redirected the path of the incoming scythe. Akitsu sent a small number of long ice spears at Yomi making the Sekirei back from me.

The next swing of the scythe I didn't deflect, just evaded and then grasped the pole firmly stopping its movement. Yomi came to a halt when I kept her weapon from moving, "What the," she exclaimed.

I gave the scythe a shake before yanking it hard getting Yomi to let it go with a cry. The girl glared at me before her expression morphed into shock at seeing I had her weapon in hand. I stared impassively at her, "Misbehaving little girls shouldn't be playing with sticks or sharp objects that may be attached to them young lady," I stated flatly.

I tossed the scythe away leaving Yomi with little to nothing to work with to attack or defend with against us. Then out of nowhere, Musubi out of all people suddenly appeared attempting to hit Yomi. She missed by a narrow margin but had not expected my tenant to show up, I'll applaud the effort. The expression on Yomi's face told me that she was aware that she was outmatched, so she ran and disappeared into the trees.

Once Yomi was gone, I looked back at Kusano to check on how she was doing. Kusano still had her arms around me, but she was in the process of falling asleep on my back by this point. I couldn't help the smile that reformed at seeing Kusano hanging onto me as she was embraced by the merciful arms of sleep. Minato shortly came into the clearing and was shocked to see me there though it was Musubi that spoke first. She seemed to suddenly register my presence as well, "Mr. Landlord? What are you doing here," she asked.

I let out some quiet laughter as I'm finding that Musubi is more an 'airhead' as it's called these days than others I've encountered. I used to call them happy and/or clueless fools and I found such company intriguing and enjoyable most of the time. After I contained the amusement, I smiled in response, "I was taking a walk this evening and happen to come past here. The garden looked so inviting that I thought I could take a look around," I said. "However, I think it best that we all head back to the house as it's getting late."

With me stating what should be done as it was close to time to retire for the night, we all as a group left the garden. We made the fifteen-minute journey back to Izumo Inn, silence hung over us though it was clear to me that Minato was curious about Akitsu and Kusano being with me. Once we got back to the house, Minato and Musubi headed to their room. This left me with the task to inform and then explain to Miya what had occurred this evening that involved me.

Oh yes, Miya and I had discussed the point of me having multiple Sekirei, but I don't think either of us had expected it to come so soon nor two in the same night. True, Kusano isn't my Sekirei yet, but I would be amazed if she doesn't ask and plead me to be her ashikabi before we all retire for the night. Then, Kusano and Akitsu living here should be fine, but there's another part to having multiple Sekirei that is bound to come up. That being, who gets attention and how much, that's something I've foreseen and I didn't look forward to defining that point.

In fact, Miya found me not too long after Minato and I along with our 'entourage' arrived back at the house. Her gaze went from me to Akitsu then back to me, 'silently' asking me what all this was about through our bond. Her thoughts were stern, and I knew why they were for I'm as much hers and she is mine and that's not something either of us will argue, so there is an ownership issue. There is no question to me or her as far as I know that what Miya means the world to me and none other would take that position.

In response, I gave my wife a smile before I walked to the living room and set down Kusano on one of the sofas softly so that I didn't wake her. When I turned, Miya was waiting for me to explain what was going on, she had learned that I would tell about what goes on, but sometimes, it wouldn't be right away. Akitsu was standing inside the doorway looking around the room, with a bit of a curious expression.

I gestured my wife to join me over on the unoccupied sofa and Miya did and I started the tale that had brought about what had happened tonight. The recounting of my walk was simple until the point that I came across Akitsu in the park. I told Miya what I had noticed with Akitsu, that her aura was badly off and that her emotions were screaming at me to help. Thankfully, Miya has come to understand that I can sense the emotions of others, and the need I feel to help in what ways I can. She has personal experience with that idea for I'd done the similar for her before now.

As I got into the meeting with the spoiled whiny brat Mikogami, and Miya showed recognition at the description of the male Sekirei though I didn't press for details. After I shooed the brat off, I said that I had started heading back home fully intent to tell Miya what had occurred. But, when I had gone by the Arboretum, the feeling of being called was too strong to ignore for me. I went through the events of meeting Kusano again and how Akitsu and I ended out helping her not be taken by none other than the brat Mikogami.

Miya accepted my explanation since we had come to the understanding that lying to one another was something that neither of us would do. There was the one thing I haven't told her due to Takehito making me promise before telling me what he wanted. I have said nothing about Takehito taking two of the Jinki and having me keep them from Minaka. There will come the day I will be able to tell Miya about it and I hope that she would understand why.

Miya didn't like the idea of me having multiple Sekirei and she had said as much to me already though she knew that it was very likely. Akitsu seemed to pick up on Miya's feelings of not wishing to share me with others and she opted to leave. One look at Akitsu showed that she didn't want to leave and wanted to be near and around me. Suffice it to say, I told Akitsu flat out that she would be staying here and not leaving and she smiled at hearing that. Then Miya did welcome her to Izumo Inn and guided the woman to our room likely to get her some proper clothing as my robe alone wouldn't do.

While the ladies went off, I rose and moved over to the other sofa where Kusano was and sat down. Glancing at the girl, I saw that Kusano was starting to stir and wake up. She got herself into a sitting position and began rubbing her eyes sleepily. Then Kusano looked around the room showing confusion at being in a place she didn't know. Yet, when she spotted me, Kusano smiled and lunged at me throwing her arms around my middle hugging me. I petted her head ruffling her hair a little, "Good to see you awake Kusano," I remarked, "Are you feeling okay? You had quite an eventful night this evening after all."

Kusano looked up at my face and nodded at me, but she also had a blush quickly developing on her cheeks. "I'm fine, only because you came for me Doggie," she replied.

I got up from the sofa bringing Kusano with me, setting her on her feet and then guided her l to the back porch. I sat down and brought her into my lap hugging her gently to me and Kusano giggled softly looking happy to be where she was. "I have no problem with you calling me Doggie Kusano. But, when there are others around, I think it would be best that you call me Ashe. If I have to explain the reason why you call me Doggie, then it would be rather hard for me in most cases to get others to comprehend the reasons," I said.

The blonde girl nodded in understanding, but she kept looking at my face, "Ashe, would you be my Ashikabi," Kusano asked me with tones of hope and happiness in her voice.

It was obvious that Kusano would ask this question of me and I could now see that the vision of Kusano and then, our second meeting, weren't by chance, but an opportunity fate had given both of us. She was like Kai, one who has yet to see the world and the good that there is. And yet, Kusano was different from my son as well, but I could feel the warmth of love and care within me for her. And I doubt Miya would see a problem with Kusano becoming a part of our family, better she be with a kind person like me. Or I could even see Minato also being a good choice, rather than one who would hurt her. I gave her a smile, "If that's what you wish Kusano, then certainly I will be your Ashikabi," I returned.

Kusano's expression changed into pure happiness and joy before she twisted around in my lap to face me. As she did, I cast a spell to prevent any from finding out what was about to occur, mostly MBI. She then grabbed both of my cheeks and moved her head up kissing me. Ten green wings appeared and unfolded behind Kusano, and seconds after that my magic seal appeared and combined with the wings much like had happened with the two Sekirei that I had winged before now. Her wings deepened in color and shined brighter before they died down, Kusano pulled away and was beaming at me. I smiled back however, I then focused on the yard in front of me for there had been changes while the winging ceremony had taken place. All the plant life in the backyard had grown and tremendously so, all of them looking healthier than they had appeared before.

At the sight in front of me, I had to admit that Kusano's abilities are impressive even by my standards as being able to bring life to everything around is a rare gift. Magic can do many things, but to bring life and vitality isn't normally one of them, and for the times magic can, there is more to it. "Wow Kusano, a rare gift you have," I uttered, then my smile grew as I turned my head to look at my newest Sekirei, "Welcome to the family Kuu." Kusano seemed to like the nickname that I came up with for her as she leaned into me snuggling to me and letting out a contented sigh.

A/n

And I'll leave off there. Okay there was a different in this chapter and that was Ashe's view of Mikogami. He sees him as a spoiled whiny brat, and I'll likely be corrected for saying it, but I think most of us would see the kid the same way. Please some of you take the time to write a review and tell me what you think, whether it is that I suck or you wish to correct me. If you want to say my writing is bad, please be nice enough to say your reason(s) as to why you think, so perhaps I can improve in some way. Until the next chapter then to all you readers, peace out!