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.

9. Boundaries

A/n

This chapter got longer in it's rewrite, but not the point exactly, this chapter was funny to write, and I was still laughing for a portion of it as there are parts that are funny and somewhat familiar with how the series goes. Anyways, on with the story and enjoy!

Chapter 9: Boundaries

-Ashe's pov-

The next morning came, and when I started to wake up, I felt warmth all around me to which I took notice as it was somewhat unusual from most mornings. Granted, I've become accustomed to having Miya next to me when I wake up in the morning with close to five years of being married. It has been a delight and I'm truly grateful that such a thing has become normal as it is a lovely experience. But the current warmth I was feeling was more than Miya gives off by herself and we don't normally have others in our room. Yes, Kai has ended out in here on occasion, but he isn't here and he isn't able to use enough magic to get here from where he is.

That being said, the sensation I was feeling held my attention as it as out of the ordinary that I'm used to. I opened my eyes and began glancing around to see what could be bringing unexpected warmth. Upon looking to my left, I saw as I expected Miya lying there like she had every morning since we were married, and she was still sleeping. In fact, Miya was snuggled up against my side with her head next to my own, again much like she normally does and that brought a smile to my face. It was a reminder that Miya had changed so much for me and a welcome change it is been and will be going forward.

I then twisted to my right and to my genuine surprise, I found Akitsu lying there with her body partially on my futon and still somewhat on hers as well, but in contact with me nonetheless. She was in the light yukata she had been lent to her by Miya still though it wasn't on properly as it had been last night. The reason I knew that was both the sash and the yukata were undone and the yukata had also slipped down a margin. I do believe that I'll ask Miya to take Akitsu and Kuu to go shopping for clothing for the clearly need more of a wardrobe than they currently have.

And from what I've seen from the Sekirei I have encountered, needs such as clothes is supposed to be provided by MBI. At least that as the impression I was under though the quality the task was being done at was lacking to varying degrees. That what I thought with some I've talked to Takehito included, yet what is seen with Sekirei dress clearly states lack of proper views of acceptable and what is not. In short, MBI nor its head are doing that much at all in anything but the basic needs which is something I already knew, just don't like being reminded of. If anything, then they're causing more issues for Sekirei with what they teach them and tell them is acceptable and what is not in the world of today than help.

I may not know what the teaching regiment for Sekirei entails, and I haven't really inquired much when I should have. Nonetheless, I'm left to wonder as I have at times what kind of people came up with the education material. From what I've seen a good portion of the material is foolish and inaccurate which makes me think Minaka had influence in what was chosen among others. I suspect the rest are of the type that should not be teaching what is right and wrong however, I can't be sure if I'm right aside from Minaka.

When I gazed downward, Kuu sleeping cuddled up in a 'bed' that was made up from my tails. And by the smile on her face, she liked how fluffy and comfortable my tails and the fur that made them up were. The odd thing is I don't recall bring out any of my tails, let alone nine out of ten of them. And yes, I really do have ten tails, not just nine as many legends say is the most that fox yōkai can have, but not the point right now. Back to Kuu, two of my tails were curled around Kuu like blankets and the rest were supporting her body like a mattress. The blonde girl was hugging one of those two tails to her front as she slept and though, and while I have no issue with Kuu snuggling up with my tails like she is, I'm more wondering how she ended out where she was. I mean don't get me wrong, Kai has done much the same as Kuu was doing now and it's absolutely adorable to witness. But I don't have my tails out just because I can, there is usually a logical reason for them to be out, more so for multiple tails.

Nevertheless, where Miya sleeping with me is perfectly fine and acceptable, having Akitsu and Kuu do so too doesn't make sense. I took the time to think about how things could've ended out like this, and that's when the memories of last night began flooding back. Last night, Miya and I had been getting ready to retire for the night after making arrangements for our two new family members. I had set up two futons in the unused room across from Miya's and mine for Akitsu and Kuu, there could be other arrangements made if need be later.

Yet still, before Miya and I could get into our futon, Akitsu had appeared asking to sleep in our room. I had hesitated for a moment, but Miya had said she didn't have an issue with the idea, so we allowed her to do as she requested. Thus, I'd laid out an extra futon for Akitsu tonight, we would work on arranging the room tomorrow I suppose. This is again one of those times I may just be a bit too nice for my own good or for others, but I guess it is fine. But not too long after that, Kuu had popped up saying that she really wanted to stay with me, which was followed up by her putting on one of the cutest 'puppy dog faces' that I've ever seen!

Oh, I've gotten some convincing puppy dog faces from many, most children, and until this Kai had held the record of giving the cutest one with a fair margin from the next. I've mentioned that Kai can just be too cute for his own good and is completely oblivious of the fact and my son really is. However, I can't deny that Kuu's delivery has been the cutest that I've seen, and it melted my heart almost instantly and I just couldn't say no to the girl. Even Miya had quickly succumbed to Kuu's puppy dog face as I had and we both agreed that Kuu could sleep in our room for the night. So, in the end, I had laid out a second futon for Kuu who'd smiled at being told she could sleep in the room for the night and hugged me. The girl could clearly be too cute for her own good without even being aware of it and I would have to watch out for that going forward.

I don't know how I attract those that are so cute, and I wouldn't complain normally and enjoy being around them. However, when I get around those that unknowingly take advantage of their own cuteness to get things, it is hard to refuse. You know you should tell them no, but you just can't bring yourself to do that and suffer the consequences of seeing them unhappy. Thus it is with Kuu I'm finding and I feel it will not be the last time this type of idea comes up. Children I find have that talent without even fully realizing it, some that have lived here had shown that to me.

Anyway, sometime in the middle of the night, I do vaguely remember Kuu coming into the room and waking me up. When I had become coherent enough to know that Kuu had been in front of me, I had realized the girl had been scared by and of something. I had asked her what was wrong, and she had told me about being spooked though not everything she had been saying had made complete sense. The word "ghost" had come up a few times, what Kuu was referring to, I couldn't say without more information and she didn't have any. There are no ghosts in the house and yes, there are such things as ghosts, most just can't see them but none reside here I assure you.

Regardless of what Kuu saw, it had taken the effort to calm Kuu down and chase away her fear without waking either Miya or Akitsu. Kuu somehow saw me as a source of comfort to turn to in time of need for her and I'm fine with that. Calming my youngest Sekirei had, in the end, required my tails and that had ended out with Kuu making her bed in my tails. She'd said something about her feeling safe with them around her and nothing more. I'm just too nice for my own good sometimes, but in this, it's not so bad I suppose as Kuu was happy. Although I would be looking into what spooked Kuu, there should be nothing around the house that should have that effect.

After settling what the sources of warmth were, I came to be fully awake by now even if none of my Sekirei were doing the same yet. I sat up into a sitting position and stretched to dismiss the remnants of sleep from me. And with Kuu still peacefully sleeping nestled in my tails along with her being cute, I had no wish to wake her suddenly. So, I lifted Kuu with my tails in such a way as not to disturb my youngest Sekirei since she looked so cute as she slept. Kuu was still being supported by said tails collectively as they moved, the skills I have with my tails are handy at times like this.

The plan was for me to hug Kuu to wake her gently but, it was then that Miya stirred, probably feeling my absence from being next to her. Miya can somehow feel or sense my presence when I next to her and when I'm not. I don't know how she does, my only guess is that it has something to do with our bond, yet I have no evidence to either prove or disprove the theory. Nevertheless, this isn't the first time Miya has woken when I'm not next to her, it has happened before.

Anyway, Miya sat up rubbing her eyes before she saw that I was bringing Kuu towards my open arms. But when I almost had the blonde girl within reach, she was scooped up by Miya before I could pick her up myself. I twisted to look at Miya to ask her why she had just done what she had, yet my voice caught in my throat. The reason my voice didn't work was Miya now was holding and gently rocking Kuu in almost exactly the same way she does our son. Kuu responded by humming even as she slept though she was coming out of sleep slowly.

I didn't have time to watch the pair as Akitsu began rousing as well, at least the sounds coming from her direction said that. When I looked her way, I couldn't help the sigh that escaped me at seeing Akitsu's appearance. When Akitsu and moved to a sitting position, the yukata she had been put and tied on correctly, but now the clothing that was supposed to be covering her body had become loose and had slipped off leaving her upper body bare and completely visible. Without hesitation, I leaned towards her and grabbed the robe pulling it up and over her shoulders, then tugged the clothes shut and retied the sash, much like I would fix a child's clothing. Akitsu looked only half awake, she glanced down and seeing that I had readjusted the yukata for her.

At seeing Miya and the two newest members of my family together right now, a feeling of happiness and warmth filled me. Family is important to me and has been for a long time, so seeing my current family members together was wonderful. A broad smile formed on my face, "Good morning everyone," I greeted happily.

Kuu awakened herself and was rubbing her eyes before she focused in the direction that my voice had come from. Upon catching sight of me, Kuu leaned forward away from Miya and wrapped her arm around my neck hugging me nuzzling my cheek with hers. Next thing I registered, Akitsu embraced me from behind, her head pressing softly into my hair, which is her way of showing affection towards me. It was kind of different from last night, where Akitsu had been somewhat possessive after our meeting last night. Even Miya closed the distance between herself and me leaning into me and bringing the four of us close and it felt wonderful. This is probably one of the happier times I've experienced in a long while and I enjoyed it a great deal.

We stayed close for a period of time, happily soaking in each other's presence exchanging gestures of care and affection as well. Nonetheless, when we had to pull ourselves together Miya led the others to the bath since neither Kuu or Akitsu had one recently by what I either Miya could tell. That left me with the task of preparing the first meal of the day, so I headed to the kitchen to see what there was to work with. And since there was no one up other than my Sekirei and myself that I could hear or smell, there's nothing wrong with using magic or fox features to help the needed tasks along I say. What I'd done with Kuu earlier was mere "child's play" for me, I can use my tails for many things much like what one could do with a normal limb, and I've had a great deal of practice over my long lifetime.

I began by fetching one of the recipe books that I had collected over the years and started looking through it to see what I could whip up this morning. At the same time, my tails were gathering dishes, utensils, and raw ingredients that I would need for making the food for everyone. While I was scanning the book at the same time as gathering things with my tails, my fox ears were turning backward a hundred-eighty-degrees. They were pivoting around forward and back catching all the sounds from the rest of the house to give me a warning if someone was approaching. After all, were one of the tenants to come into the kitchen and see me as I am now, explaining to them why I look like I do… would be difficult and unwanted.

Back to me cooking breakfast, I chose what to make and began to whip up the meal with 'extra pairs of hands' working with multiple tails out. I was well into the process of making the meal when Kuu and Akitsu came into the kitchen followed closely by Miya. My wife tasked the other two to get the dishes and other things to the table while I was finishing up the cooking. I heard Miya teaching both Kuu and Akitsu how the table was properly set as I finished and was putting food into plates and bowls. It was shortly after Miya had taught the two the job of arranging the table settings, that she came back into the kitchen and helped me get breakfast to the table, where I saw that Kuu and Akitsu had the table arranged masterfully, even one of high standing would have trouble finding an error in the setting.

Once I brought the food to the table, I sat at the head of the table with Miya taking her customary spot on my right as is her privilege as my wife. Kuu sat one position to my left and Akitsu took the seat on Miya's right and just as we had sat down, the other tenants of the Inn minus one filtered into the dining room. I say minus one because Matsu was absent like she had rather a habit of being since she still hides the vast majority of the time. I've just given up trying to practice the proper manners there has been no visible change and ignore some things she does for the time being. She was probably hiding in her room, knocked out if she stayed up all night on those machines of hers as she did more often than not.

After they took their sitting positions, breakfast began and was a good experience. When the meal was done, Minato headed out for cram school for the day. Unfortunately, the poor boy still hasn't realized that he doesn't need the lessons the school was teaching. What he really requires is building his self-confidence up to attain his goal. Musubi, to occupy her time, was assigned the task to go out to do the needed shopping. The airheaded Sekirei was more than happy to do the shopping, so much so that she nearly left without the shopping list. But I had caught her before she had gone off and made sure she had the list then sent her off.

Miya was cleaning up breakfast with the assistance of Akitsu, who was trying to be helpful however she could bless her heart she tries hard. Uzume on the other hand just went over to the common room, which is next to the living room and had switched the news on and was laying lazily on the floor watching. The display of slothfulness made it difficult to hold my tongue and not chide Uzume upon just how lazy and lethargic she was becoming. I've always had a dislike and frown down upon those who laze about and are slothful expecting that things will work out for them with little effort on their part. Idleness does little to nothing, it only encourages worse practices and missing events that pass by.

Kuu herself was sitting on the back porch appearing to simply be staring at a tree in the backyard and I couldn't think of a special reason why she would be doing so. I mean yes, I understand that her ability to bring life to plants could also mean that she can communicate with them as well. I myself have never been very skilled in the art, I haven't taken the time to practice such things as I have yet to see a good motivation to take the time and put forth the effort. With Kuu being connected to me going forward, that could change such at some point, but I cannot say for sure at this time.

I simply gazed at Kuu, when the sound of the television came to my ears, "And in other news, the abnormal plant growth in Shinto Tato's arboretum was taken care of by MBI early this morning," the reporter said. "The method employed which effectively handled the unexplainable plant activity hasn't been released by any of MBI's representatives as of yet. Our reporters will keep trying to find out how much was done for our viewers. Still, what is clear is whatever means was used worked where other attempted methods failed. The big question is how did MBI do it and why are they not revealing it to the public?"

Upon hearing that, I turned my head towards the television for it was clearly referring to the arboretum as it was specifically mentioned. That meant that the trees and plant life that Kuu had created had been 'taken care of' or destroyed by MBI no less early this morning while all slept. It makes me curious as to what or whom they had done that for the job would be extensive I would think without magic? Minaka was one that liked flare, so this event did fit his style to an extent though not entirely. Doing something unexpected was Minaka in a nutshell, but he also loved to bluster about his work and accomplishments.

My attention returned to Kuu who was still on the back porch staring at a unique tree. The tree had been a gift from another to Miya and myself, a wedding gift in fact from a foreign visitor as I recall. However, when I sensed fast growing sadness coming from Kuu, I focused completely on my little blonde Sekirei. I will not have any member of my family sad while I am able in any possible way to help bring comfort to them!

Kuu's sadness quickly got to the point that I strode over to her and put a hand on one of her shoulders, trying to determine what was wrong. Kuu began to tremble as she kept staring at the tree, her sorrow gaining momentum. Tears quickly started streaming from her eyes and sobs quickly followed. I brought myself down to sit beside Kuu, shifting my hand on her shoulder to have my whole arm around her. "Kuu, tell me what is wrong? What is bringing you such sadness," I inquired with worry.

Kuu turned to me and moved into my lap and her hands clutched my clothing, "Shiina," she started. I waited for her to continue, circling my arms around her, before she kept going, "That tree told me… all the trees and plants I made… Shiina took the life from them." She sobbed harder, and so I waited for her to continue, and she did, "Shiina is a boy, a little older than me and he has powers opposite to mine. He has always helped me to keep my power in control… I don't know what I'll do now without him!" Kuu sobbed before breaking down into crying.

I embraced Kuu tightly as I took in what she'd said for it did have significance in ways that not all would think. To understand, that there was a male Sekirei that has the power to bring death… I don't know what to make of that at the moment. Of course, I've observed that in the world and in every realm that opposites do exist and are necessary. The best-known example is light and darkness, without light there cannot be darkness, nor can there be darkness without light. If one side exists, then so too must the other, balance cannot be otherwise and were there no balance to be, the world would cease to exist and all else with it. So, as Kuu has the power to bring life to plants or I would assume any living being, when she learns more, it stands to reason that an entity with the opposite power would exist.

Kuu continued to sob into my front, so I began rocking her back and forth to calm her down. My motions consoled Kuu a margin before I spoke to her, "Kuu, I'm sorry that the plants and trees you brought to life were killed, they were beautiful," I said softly to her. "As for a time that your power may go out of your control, then I will be there to help you regain control, so would Miya and Akitsu. We are all here for you Kuu, you are not alone anymore for we are family. That's a bond that cannot be broken by anyone else, only you can let that bond brake. A bond is far more powerful and stronger than a contract, and for as long as you wish it to, I can say is a truth that is undeniable. Our family bond will and does give you strength as it does to those who are a part of it and that strength is collective, meaning it is shared and grows in that same way. So Kuu, know in your heart that you are never alone even if you are by yourself, for you are connected to those that love you in a way that will always give you the power that you need, I promise you that."

Kuu looked up at my smiling face and it appeared to help her calm down the rest of the way. She stayed in my embrace for a little while taking comfort in being with me and it was wonderful to be able to help her. Once the sorrow had left Kuu, I led her back into the house where Miya started showing her how to do some of the cleanings that she could do with where she could reach. Kuu did her best to do as Miya taught her, honestly, she was adorable with how hard she tries.

After watching Kuu doing her best to mimic Miya's action in cleaning, which brought warmth to my heart. Seeing that Kuu was in good hands and was doing better than before, I decided that it was time for me to get down to the business of the day. The first task on the list for me today was room inspection, it was that time of the month once again. So, I began inspecting room by room as is set and stated by the rules of the contract, I see the need to make sure the terms agreed upon are being upheld. Kagari's room was fine, the male Sekirei was neat and kept things organized which is nice as not all tenants do.

Next, I headed upstairs continuing my inspection, since Kagari was the only tenant on the first floor. Uzume's room was okay, the closet was stuffed full of… 'a variety of costumes' which I hadn't expected to find. Such a sight made me wonder why she has all of these outfits for as far as I know most people don't have a closet full of costumes, but none of the ones I saw went against either rule of Izumo Inn that I could tell. That being the case, it's not any of my business what Uzume is doing with her time while she's not here, that doesn't prevent my curiosity causing me to wonder about it.

After a moment to consider what I'd seen before now, I figured it was best that I leave Matsu's room until last. Every time I've looked in her room, it was horrifyingly messy, and it was quite disgusting and that was putting it nicely. I've seen disorganized messes that have more sense to them than what Matsu's living space and it irked me. I swear, Matsu has never cleaned the room once and it's getting sickening as time moved forward. There would be an accounting for her constant mess very soon for living in filth is unacceptable and I wouldn't let that stand much longer. My patience is long and vast, but even I have my limits to what I will take, and I've been very tolerant of the perverted freeloader and her habits beyond what I should've been already. That's on top of her paying absolutely nothing for the resources she consumes without care and that is getting infuriating.

Anyways, I moved on to look in on the last occupied room along the second-floor hallway which was Minato's and Musubi's, but I'm not all that worried about their room. Minato is a decently mannered young man and has proven that several times from my observations. And yet, it was as I inspected Minato's room that my view changed. The reason that I say that, was during my inspection of the room I found not one, nor two, but three of Matsu's 'hidden cameras' all in the position to view Minato's every move.

Now, I clearly recall addressing this issue directly with Matsu already and had made things fairly clear. I told that freeloader the cameras were to stop popping up inside this house or there would be consequences to face. Perhaps I didn't say it bluntly or directly knowing that Matsu is responsible for them appearing, but I did say that they were to stop appearing or action would be taken. I knew Matsu had lied to me though I didn't call her out on the point as I had believed I'd gotten my point across, yet apparently that wasn't so.

That translated to mean in Matsu's view, as long as I didn't find any of them, there's nothing wrong with her putting them out. The ways the cameras were hidden were different than before, saying Matsu had put forth effort into hiding them. However, her assumption of it being okay for her to use these cameras as long as they weren't found by Miya or me is wrong. With the evidence I'd seen it's also likely that she's being attracted or perhaps reacting to Minato, but that isn't a good or viable excuse to me and I'll make sure she knows that whether it's before or after she faces the consequences.

Again, I feel pity for Minato since he just seems to attract trouble to himself and so it would seem that once more, he has more coming, unfortunately. I pocketed one of the cameras and crushed the other two into tiny fragments which I delivered to Matsu's room. I planned to give her an ear full and more when I deposited the "camera dust". But when I entered the room I stopped, and it wasn't the mess that got me to come to a halt though it was horrible as usual. It was more the absence of the room's occupant that had my attention for that was very odd for the redhead not to be here. Matsu didn't leave this room without a very good reason like Miya telling her to do so or myself doing the same thing being the main ones. It makes me even more suspicious of what Matsu was doing right now, and that suspicion was growing every minute that I didn't know where Matsu was.

I headed back down the stairs, my mind calculating what Matsu could be up to as I still don't trust her. From the things, Miya has told me and what I've observed, the redhead is not only one to do things stealthily as she could but would disregard rules if she could get away with it as well. I was in the front hall when I was brought out of my thoughts as the front door opened. Upon glancing that way, I saw Musubi, and I would've continued on my way if not taking a second look at the girl. Musubi didn't look like she had when she was sent shopping this morning, her clothes were in tatters and there was a little more than half of them remaining. Now, I would be shocked if there wasn't a story as to why Musubi's clothes are like they are, because shopping shouldn't do this.

So, when Musubi noticed me looking at her and she gained what I have begun to call her 'airheaded' expression. Said expression made her look pretty clueless and close to completely ignorant. "Oh, hello Ashe, I finished the shopping," she said, not showing any shame with her clothes being in the state they were in, she didn't even seem to notice it at all. I couldn't come up with an adequate response with her statement in relation to her state of dress. Musubi then was going through the bags she had, then she stiffened, "Oops, I forgot radishes and soy sauce," she got out.

Musubi then turned around and was about to head for the door, I was about to move forward to stop the girl. However, I was beaten to the punch as Miya appeared out of nowhere and grabbed Musubi shoulder. "Musubi, you're not thinking about going out dressed like that, are you," Miya posed.

"Dressed like," Musubi questioned before she looked down and seemed then to notice the state of her clothes were in. Then Musubi looked back at Miya, "But Miya, I forgot a few things on the list, I'll just go out quickly and get them," Musubi started.

That snapped me out of the slight stupor that I had been in and got behind Musubi grabbing her other shoulder, "Hold it right there young lady! You are NOT going out dress as you are right now, have you no shame or self-respect in regard to modesty? Miya and I can go get what you missed later, now march yourself to the bathroom and clean up. Then after you clean yourself up, you can perhaps tell us what happened for you to end up back here looking like you do currently for I would hope there is a reason your clothes end out as they are," I said firmly.

"Oh, well, you see Ashe, lights just started coming down from the sky," Musubi got out.

Musubi was one of those who hear only part of what you say and miss the rest, I've been seeing this, but it still is irritating. Nonetheless, where I normally ignore such things, I was in no mood for any talking back to come my way, not after finding Matsu's cameras and understanding what it strongly implied! Instead, my expression began to morph into a scowl and I cut over her, pointing to the bathroom, "I said after you clean yourself up, young lady, now go," my voice did increase in volume a bit, which I don't do often, but it got Musubi going off to the bathroom without argument.

I instantly realized that my temper was flaring up and my control over it was slipping a tad, it was obvious. It's happening because I'm fairly sure that Matsu is in the process of breaking one if not both the rules of this house if she is able to get away with it. I very much dislike rules and laws being broken and the individuals that insist that they should be above or an exception to the rules. Such are fools that are making excuses to do as they please even when they know it is wrong, they believe they shouldn't face the consequences for their choice. Perhaps it may be that it reminds me of days past that I don't like recalling, but it doesn't really matter in that respect.

However, I wouldn't accuse Matsu of such until I had indisputable evidence of her doing so even if I'm confident that she's doing wrong. It more gives me a reason to catch her in the act for then there will be little to no excuse for the redhead. I mean, there's the chance that either Miya or I could catch her with hands redder than her hair. And if I do catch her, then the consequence has been made plain already and Matsu will face them. She will not sweet talk her way out of it as she might have done before, but Matsu won't get that to work with me. I'm not one to take excuses for bad behavior, I instead dish out the consequences.

Presently though, my emotions were visible as Miya came over to me and put her hands around my shoulders, her head coming to rest almost in the crook of my neck. "Ashe, are you alright? Is there something wrong? You normally do not have any temper like this," she asked me a little worried.

I pulled away a little and looked at my wife, my source of peace and happiness in a world that has in the last century especially become an ocean of chaos and near constant change. The wish to put on a smile and say there was nothing wrong was strong within me, but I just couldn't do it. I have sworn to myself long ago that I wouldn't lie to Miya to any degree without extremely good reason and I haven't come up with any reason yet in the years that we've been married and known one another. In the end, I let out a sigh, "Wrong, not that I can prove just yet, I'm more thoroughly annoyed at something I found this morning."

I paused for a moment then continued, "I happened to be inspecting our tenants' rooms to make sure they're adhering to what they agreed to, it is that time of the month. While doing so, I found that Matsu has been putting out more of her small cameras she uses for spying on others again. And that's after I told her indirectly that the cameras were to not appear any more or there would be consequences. She apparently didn't listen to me and/or thinks that as long as she doesn't get caught putting them out, it is fine for her to do such activities," I began, taking out the single camera that I didn't crush and showing it to Miya.

Miya stared at the camera and then shook her head, "Matsu has never been one to adhere to any given rule unless she is forced to, and even then she has very often put forth an effort to attempt to get around them. I have often wondered why she doesn't put that effort towards other pursuits than she does. I am sorry that I told you to give her a chance, I wanted to believe she had changed in that respect, but she hasn't given signs that she has improved at all."

"Don't blame yourself love, you wanted to see the good that could be within her and that is a wonderful quality. Unfortunately, there are those in every race and species that see nothing wrong with taking advantage of such kindness." I exhaled, "Honestly, it doesn't surprise me that Matsu has developed habits of skirting rules and laws. She has shown signs that neither means much if anything to her, they are more like challenges for her to work around. Whether that is due to circumstances that she has been in previously, I don't care much about that. Yet after finding this one and the other cameras, I'm left to wonder if she's looking in on things that are dangerous for her to even try." I thought for a moment and figured it would be best to state the worst-case scenario Matsu could do here, "like spying in on our room for example."

Miya gained a dark menacing aura around herself, "She'd better not think about doing such a thing, not if she wishes to continue living at all," she growled.

My feelings about Matsu vanished and I hugged Miya to calm her, "I am not accusing her of such yet. I will not until I have clear unarguable proof that she does something as foolish as that." I released Miya but still felt that there was rule breaking soon to happen. "But, to find them in Minato's room… I feel she either might or is pulling something that goes against the set rules that we have established. Then, she may and likely will try and pass her actions off as her reacting expecting to get off without punishment with that excuse."

I sighed, "Truthfully, I've always wondered who it would be that would test the bounds of the rules first out of our current tenants, there always seems to be at least one in every group. My guess has been either Uzume or Matsu out of our tenants and so it would seem, Matsu will be the one who will try to push the bounds first. It has been a long time since I've had one that's lived here be foolish enough to go this far, or as it's put these days, 'towing the line'," I said to her tiredly. "You wouldn't happen to know where she is, would you dear? Matsu wasn't in her room when I went to confront her about the cameras I found."

Miya shook her head in the negative, I nodded and then turned and resumed my search for the said tenant that there needs to be a serious talk with. The weird thing, there aren't all that many places for Matsu to hide here at Izumo Inn and she hasn't left the house since she took up living here. Her room is the hiding place she uses most of the time, so to not find her there leaves one of two reasons as to why. The first would be she's using a different hiding place, which is possible, even if unlikely. The second and more likely, Matsu is up to no good and is in the process of breaking at least one of the standing regulation Miya and I have. It is possible that Matsu is doing nothing wrong and is just going for a walk, but she hasn't come off as one that behaves while not observed.

I was walking by the dining room trying to figure out where Matsu could be, more so she could be stopped before she does something she shouldn't. There would be consequences if she was caught before breaking one of the statutes, just not as harsh if she is found during or after doing the deed. I was considering using the enhanced senses I have before I was brought out of my thoughts at hearing a cry followed by a thump. The cry sounded like it came from Musubi, who should be to the bathroom by now. She could have slipped and fallen, but I don't think so in this, but I did head towards the bathroom.

Along the way, a thought came to my mind of what and whom it could be that was responsible for what was going on. That reignited all the frustrated feelings I had due to Matsu likely doing things she shouldn't with renewed strength. The very inkling that Matsu was at work doing the fundamental no no's that had been defined here frustrated me. It also gave an amount of credence to my suspicions about Matsu. When she had come and begged Miya and me to let her stay saying that she would adhere to the rules, I hadn't believed her. Even when Miya told me what she was like and told me to give her a chance, I still had my suspicions.

That said, I stuck out a hand and used magic to summon a wooden practice bokutō to me. The wood weapon promptly came flying in a cartwheeling motion down the hallway towards me. My hand was stretched out and the blade zoomed into my grasp, ready to be used if that was needed. Then, I closed the remaining distance to the bathroom faster than what humans are capable of moving. I unceremoniously threw open the door to the changing room, stalked over to the door to the bath itself, and then threw that door aside.

The scene that met my eyes, was one that I didn't think I would actually see and it had me seething with growing fury. Musubi was wrapped in a towel and she was struggling as she was entangled in a black net from head to toe. On the other side of the room, my gaze locked onto the one who I wouldn't doubt set all this up. The one that I would make sure would face the consequences for these actions personally. None other than the redheaded woman I'd been looking for since I had found her three cameras that she was not to keep putting out. Yes, Matsu was in front of me, wrapped in nothing but a towel and positioned over Minato. Her position and actions thus far showed that she had no intention of stopping what she was doing.

The air around me instantly darkened and became heavy as the situation kept going. Matsu removed her towel and started getting closer to Minato who was panicking while Matsu muttering something about 'experiments'. I wasn't about to let Matsu continue her actions, I had caught her in her blatantly disregarding the house rules and she would face the ramifications, mark my words. The next moment, I appeared right behind Matsu and held the bokutō at her neck, touching the skin to make sure Matsu registered the contact. I had a VERY foul expression upon my face with my eyes shadowed over, that's how ticked off I was at seeing this.

When I tapped the end of the wooden bokutō blade to Matsu's neck, she turned and saw me. Matsu instantly noted my expression and when she had taken it in, she flinched and give an 'eek'. Then, she plastered herself to the closest wall, shaking in fear as she kept looking at me, "Mr. Landlord," she squeaked shakily in a panic. "How long have you been there?"

For her to have the gall to ask that with what she was trying to pull, that only further implied that she had gotten into this situation by choice. Matsu knew what she was doing was wrong whether she admitted it or not. She has also had the consequences stated to her before now so she can't use that in an argument. So honestly, today would be the day that Matsu would be cast out of Izumo Inn after less than two months of living here. Truthfully, that's a record for a tenant that I have accepted be tossed out in such a short timeframe and it isn't a good record.

I kept the blade pointed at her mere centimeters from her face, but I said nothing, I even kept the growl that was clawing within me from coming out. Right now, I was truly mad for the first time since Takehito's murder due to the actions of Minaka. Matsu was shaking at my silence, but she took a moment to realize just what I had caught her in. Her eyes soon widened as she came to gaze back at me, her face steadily paling, "WAIT, this isn't what you think! Please Mr. Landlord, just give me a chance to explain," Matsu squeaked, with less volume than before.

Her weak attempt to justify herself and her actions while waving her hands around as well did nothing to change my mood. She had been caught and it is as simple of that and it will not change what will come to Matsu. I kept the sword pointed at her, and I used my other arm to gesture at the door, "YOU, get dressed NOW," I growled menacingly controlling myself enough to make sure to keep all my non-human features from appearing. "Then you are to be downstairs and sit in the living room. There, you will be informed of what you'll face for your recent activities Matsu. If you even think of running away to escape this, then you will regret it," I snarled coldly.

Then I brought up my head and opened my eyes that had become gold and were starting to gain a slight glow to them, but the pupils weren't slits just yet. "If you thought MBI hunting you down was harsh Matsu, then let me state for your comprehension the facts. It will be as nothing compared to what you will deal with should you attempt to run from me. Those chasing you are but as a minor inconvenience, whereas I will be far less nice and beyond what you would define as persistent or tenacious. Should I have to track you down Matsu, there will be nowhere you can run, not a single place you can hide that I will not find you. In plain and simple terms Matsu, there will be no escape that you can conceive of nor be able to pull off period, none at all! Now, get yourself moving," I nearly bellowed in a cold voice.

Matsu got my message, as she scrambled to the door doing as I said as quickly as she could. After I had observed her doing so, I took some time to calm down a bit, before I turned towards the door myself. I intended to head to the living room, so I can get this situation with Matsu over and done with. "Wait, Mr. Hitoyoshi," called Minato.

I came to a halt then glanced back at the young man, my eyes had closed so that my golden eyes were not seen by him. I didn't want to scare Minato, he is a good person more than I tend to see often and I don't want to ruin that. People like him help me keep my hope for the good that the human race has to offer, and I don't want to hurt that plus, I can see without having my eyes open. Then, I didn't blame Minato for these circumstances, they weren't his fault, he was a victim in this. "Don't worry yourself Minato, I do not hold you responsible for this occurrence," I replied evenly. I turned forward again, made a quick downward swing of the bokutō in the direction that Musubi had been. Then I continued, "And I believe I've told you to call me Ashe and not Mr. Hitoyoshi Minato, I'm not very fond of formalities."

As I exited the room, the sound of the net trapping Musubi coming apart seconds after I had appeared to make a swing came to my ears. My swing had really been many swings to cut the net apart and not touch Musubi at all. I heard Musubi hit the floor, "What the? Minato I'm free… but how did it happen," she asked as I made a distance from the bathroom.

By the time I made it to the living room, my mood was fragile, barely stable for I was still foul with what Matsu had done. She had both rules of this house explained and even details are given for what the rules entailed upon being considered for a tenant. Miya informed me that Matsu had told her that she understood them, what they covered, the expectations of her following them, and what would come down on her if she broke the rules. She has herself to blame and hold responsible for what she would face now.

If I were to be truthful and I strive to be, I knew something like this was going to happen. Matsu hadn't convinced me that she would keep her word, but I had given her a chance to prove me wrong since Miya had asked me to. Yet, by the way she had reacted to my appearance along with how she had been acting, she'd believed that her actions would be ignored or excused with nothing happening to her as the result. I don't know, nor do I care why such thoughts would come to her when I've made it clear I don't do that. The fact is she had proven me right that she wouldn't follow the house rules and I will not have tenants here that shows blatant disregard with following the rules.

I hadn't even sat down on a sofa in the living room before the anger I was feeling became easy for others to see. Miya at least, when she came into the room instantly took in my mood as I lowered myself into a sofa setting the bokutō blade leaning against the furniture, still remaining in my reach and keeping my eyes closed. My wife took a seat next to me, leaning up against me communicating with me without words. Her thoughts and feelings had a calming effect for me dissipating the anger that Matsu had caused. I began to relax and lean back into Miya experiencing a semblance of tranquility due to her efforts. I managed to have my eyes return to the grey they normally were and the dark air around me faded.

I opened my eyes and looked to Miya, giving her a thankful smile for her help in hard times, "You always seem to know how to help me dearest to my heart. I would be drowning in horrible sickening emotions without you," I whispered to her sincerely. Miya hummed softly to me, her way of saying you're welcome with things like this.

I would need to have a clear head and a calm mind in deciding what would occur with Matsu. And speaking of the Sekirei in question, she shuffled into the room, obviously scared of me and for good reason. It's not good to cause me to be in a bad mood, it's worse when I'm angry at the individual. Thus far, none living here currently had fully tested the waters of what punishment would come to those who go against the rules here very far until now. It had been many, many years since any of the tenants that I've had went to the point to see if I would follow through on the consequences I'd stated for rule breaking. Miya and I had stated to each of our tenants, there are two rules here at Izumo Inn and there are penalties for breaking either of the rules, period.

I was about to start, yet Minato, Musubi followed by Kuu came into the room where we were before I could. The second that Kuu saw Matsu her eyes widened, and she gained a fear-filled expression on her face. She scurried over to me and climbed into my lap clinging to me while she trembled with fright. Kuu was also whispering things, the word 'ghost' came to my ears a few times and that word helped me connect things. Last night Kuu had gone off to the bathroom and had come back to me saying something about a ghost. I hadn't been able to figure out at the time what Kuu had been referring to, but apparently, it had been Matsu sneaking around at night. That also said that was the time that Matsu went around putting out her cameras and that just added to the list of problems Matsu brought.

To start this off, Miya told Matsu to introduce herself to those here that hadn't met her before now and she did. While she did, I soothed Kuu of her fears, and she remained in my lap afterward. After that I laid out the incident that had occurred, not allowing Matsu to say anything in her defense while I did. I didn't just state what I had caught her in, but also that she had been spying on others though she tried to deny the accusation.

It wasn't until I had said everything that Matsu had been doing recently that she's shouldn't have been when I gave the opportunity to the 'accused' to speak. "So then Matsu," I started calmly, Matsu shivered as I spoke. "You have made it clear that rules mean nothing to you since you ignore and disregard them whenever you can get away with it."

I paused for a moment to take a breath, "I suspected you were the type to do so while you were pleading your case of being a tenant and begged to be allowed to stay here. However, like those who ask to be tenants here before you, I gave you an opportunity to prove the contrary to me. Yet, you instead of using that opportunity to prove yourself deserving of a chance, you gave into your habits which lead to the current situation. It merely reinforced the suspicions I had of you and that you still have habits that you need to rid yourself of. Why you would think the rules wouldn't apply to you like they do everyone else is beyond me, but that doesn't matter really."

I stopped for a moment again, took a deep breath and continued, "You were made aware that there would be consequences awaiting you should you violate either rule. Sadder still, you were even told clearly what those consequences would be Matsu and warned that it would be unwise to test them, yet you believe that they won't fall."

I took another moment to take another deep breath to keep calm, "That being established, what do you have to say for yourself Matsu? Can you even give me a conceivable reason that I would even consider accepting that would explain how the scene I witnessed could be a viable accident and not premeditative rule violation? For right now, with the standing evidence I have, I will be enacting the punishment stated to you and kicking you out to the street today."

If I were to say that I don't expect much from Matsu that would help herself, it comes from experience. Should she wish to prove me wrong, then she would be admitting that she had done wrong and not giving me lies and excuses. "Please Mr. Landlord! This is not what you think it is, I have a reason for what I've done, and it was necessary! I deeply apologize for this trespass," Matsu stuttered back to me.

And as I'd gotten from the redhead before, she gives not an answer but an excuse for her actions and an attempt to get it waved off. At this point, I wasn't all that interested in hearing an apology that was fueled by panic and is not sincere. Me views on rule breaking are clear, you break a rule, especially knowing you do, then the individual will be punished period. So, Matsu won't talk her way out of this for I don't accept lying and rationalizing and I'll not be starting either.

Then her reaction thus far only tells me that I was right that she had been intending to break the house rules. Matsu knew that she was doing wrong and now she was doing her best to get out of getting tossed out of the house. And yet instead of giving me any more of an answer like she should if she wants any chance of kindness with me, Matsu crawled forward toward Miya on her hands and knees. "Miya you understand right? When you react to someone the urge isn't one that you can simply ignore, it's too strong."

Not only is the perverted freeloader ignoring me which is a very BAD choice with what she's facing, but she's trying to go to Miya to help herself. Her choice isn't much different or any better than using the excuse with me as Miya wouldn't accept it either. Honestly, I'd figured that Matsu would use reacting as an excuse when I found cameras in Minato's room, it was the simplest and the claim Sekirei could use. It wouldn't help her get out of anything with me as she still knew that she was breaking the rules set. This only is showing me that my intuition should be heeded more often as it is right a large portion of the time. Intuition said Matsu couldn't be trusted in word or deed, she was a collection of problems waiting to happen.

Perhaps, Matsu has figured out that I'm not one that can be sweet talked to and convinced to let things slide. She'd tried on smaller things before now like sneaking food off and the cameras for example and such failed. The redhead had been getting annoying in how she was flippantly doing what had been stated as wrong thinking she could get away with it. Miya had mentioned that Matsu was inclined to do such things before and clearly that hasn't changed. The real difference now from before was I had solid evidence on her of wrongdoing and I would nail her with it and boot her to the street and be done with this.

I started trembling with rising anger and it took me a couple of deep breaths before I regained control. "Matsu, your apology is of no interest as it is not sincere, it's only meant to get me to wave this off and it will not happen. And going to Miya to plead your case will not help you, not with her or me. I do know to what you are referring, whether you think I do or not so again, that excuse isn't going to fly. And even should what you say to be true, you could have and really should have approached this differently than you did. Approaching Minato while he was in the bathroom to discuss this with him was really you scheming to do what you want. Added to that, you also chose to use violence towards another tenant here, am I missing anything Matsu? For that is what I saw happening and your reactions thus far only provide further evidence of that," I posed with a growing cold tone.

"NO! That's not what was happening," Matsu squeaked in real fear.

Miya's glare silenced Matsu, "You use a gun to fire a net to trap a fellow tenant violating one rule, then you are found over another completely naked and just about to knowingly violate the second rule. How else should we consider your actions Matsu," snapped Miya. "You have always had contempt and negligence towards rules and guidelines since the start. You said that you had turned over a new leaf and changed when you came here. I had hoped that you had done just that by this point with the time that has passed, that you had seen the error of such thinking. It was why you were given a chance to be a tenant here, but apparently, you still believe rules apply to everyone else but not you. So, you haven't changed really at all!"

Matsu waved her arms harder, "NO NO NO NO! That's not true Miya, I have made changes for the better as I've said! What happened wasn't supposed to occur, I had the net gun on hand just in case, I didn't think I would have to use it," Matsu said in desperation. Then she pointed at Musubi, "She shouldn't have been in the bathroom, it's all her fault things ended out the way they did! Everything would have been fine if she hadn't been there!"

Matsu isn't helping herself at all but of course, that isn't new, it is the norm with her since day one of being here. If anything, then Matsu is making her position and/or defense even worse with the implications. She says she's made changes, if she has, none of them have curbed her habits that cause issues. One needs to take care of the root of the problem to obtain a solution, not merely change things that result from it. Case and point, instead of admitting fault, Matsu tries to shove the responsibility and blame to someone else when it is clearly hers to begin with. The irritation within me is the same kind that I get with Seo as this is no better than dealing with him after he does something stupid.

Musubi just looked confused as to what Matsu was talking about which is understandable as she had nothing to do with the event. So, a sigh escaped me regaining Matsu's attention, "That's your excuse to attempt to worm your way out of this? I've heard far better stories and fanciful tales from children to try and explain a situation than yours Matsu. Why not just say the truth that 'if Musubi hadn't walked in, then I would've gotten away with violating the rules and have no one be the wiser of me doing so'," I stated flatly. "I've see failing and lack of integrity, but you are going beyond that and it's pitiful Matsu. Face up for what you do and accept the consequences, then others might believe you'll do what you claim you will. Plus, you're not helping yourself, instead you're admitting that you violated the first rule of this house."

I took in a breath rubbing my temples, "Still, that doesn't change the fact that you were over Minato, naked I might add and about to do an act that has been clearly stated as forbidden here," I said any sign of emotion quickly fading from my voice. I paused for a minute deciding how to word what I wanted to convey for this would stand as an example for the other tenants when it came to rule breaking after all going forward. "Anyways, back to the point of this accounting Matsu, none of what you have said has changed the fact that you have broken the rules of the house. Nor does it either justify your actions or help your horrendous failing integrity. There are consequences for breaking rules, and whether you like it or not, you will face them not get to choose what they are. There is no amount of talking or lying that will get you out of this as it may have in previous issues."

I pointed a finger at Matsu who flinched and drew back a bit, "You agreed to adhere to the rules of Izumo Inn when you signed the contract for being a tenant here," I charged firmly. Then I took up the contract Matsu had signed showing it to her, "This form means, whether you read it entirely or not, that you then acknowledged and agree to be held accountable for following the rules in place and know of their consequences if broken. You said that you had no questions about any of this when we asked," I started putting down the form and glared at the woman. "So then Matsu, it is time you face the ramifications of your actions, that's how contractual agreements work. Should you wish for someone to blame, you only have yourself, you are reaping what harvest you have sown. Now, it's time to face your punishment, there has been enough stalling from you already."

Matsu had gone from using whispered words to muttering unintelligibly at what I'd said, but I didn't listen to any of it. This Sekirei had used her chances to tell of any circumstances that were not obvious at the time and chosen poorly. She had used that opportunity to lie and try to shift the blame to another, therefore attempting to worm her way out of the responsibility of her actions. She could have admitted her actions, and it would have gone a tad better for her, but she had not. Neither of her attempts would work with me as Miya and I had made it perfectly clear what awaited rule breakers. The time had come for the punishment to be delivered and show that breaking the rules doesn't slide here that would be the example for any of the other tenants.

I was about to just say that she better begin packing for I would chuck her out today. That would be the final kindness I would give before casting Matsu out of Izumo Inn to go where she will. She would have no place or sanctuary here going forward and the rest of us would move forward while Matsu would be facing her own problems. However, Minato spoke up before I could drop the hammer, "Ashe please wait!"

Minato's exclamation brought me to a halt and I turned my head to look at Minato who kept going, "Couldn't you give Matsu another chance? Yes, she came into the bathroom while I was in there when she shouldn't. Yes, she did shoot a net at Musubi, but she didn't do any real harm to either of us and I don't believe she meant anything bad. So please, couldn't you give her another opportunity to show she can follow the rules set," he pled.

The request caused me to seriously pause for I hadn't expected it to come from Minato or anyone else. Matsu had been spying on him specifically and I said as much and yet, he was defending her. Most people don't defend those who had the intent to gain an advantage over them, even less so in current times than earlier days. Granted, Minato is one of those individuals that is kind to those he meets even those who take advantage of that and it is to his credit. Yet Matsu was planning to rape Minato if there hadn't been an interruption, of that I'm reasonably sure. And yet still Minato is asking for another chance for that individual that was willing to violate him.

This left me to mull over the pros and cons of permitting Matsu to stay here at Izumo Inn. If she did stay, then it showed that there was a chance of one breaking the rules and getting off without the stated consequences coming down. Obedience to rules I found is more about consistency, you make it clear that the consequence is the same each AND every time, there's less argument and more rule following from the majority. However, if it is seen that there is a chance to break a rule and not receive punishment, then others may start trying for the same slim result and use that as justification as well. I don't give that impression without a seriously viable and good reason and those are extremely rare. And with what Matsu pulled, she was asking for punishment and I see no reason to deny that. Hence, the reason I should toss her out and be done with this whole occurrence and move forward from there.

That said, should I give her another chance to show she could follow the rules for the house, then there is not just a possibility of a repeat occurrence, more like a guarantee. Yes, I'm inclined to believe that Matsu would take a second chance as an encouragement to continue practicing her bad habits. For instance, the chances of her spying on the others here to stop were non-existent and that activity of hers was unacceptable with me period, and I know she will continue it if she stays. That was just one thing she does that cannot be ignored as it has been, there were a number of practices she has.

And I don't trust for a moment that if she were to promise me that she would stop any of her given habits that got her to where she is. I'd already given her a chance to prove if she could be trustworthy when she was asked or told to stop doing something that she would. She had made it plain that she can't be trusted, rather she will take advantage to the fullest extent she can get away with. There was more motivation to kick her out of Izumo Inn to cut down on risks, issues and the monthly bill.

However, if she does stay here, things will unlikely change going forward and no change doesn't solve standing issues. I don't like to leave standing issues to stew and develop into more than what they are currently. Plus, there's a risk for certain things that she could've seen be reveal to some I don't want them to be. I still can't say if Sekirei in general can see the supernatural or magic yet, there isn't enough evidence to say. But in the times that a number of humans discover that such exist that brings horrible problems that are best avoided. So humans and non-humans tend to be kept separate from one another to prevent such issues. I don't want Minaka to cause another occurrence of humans versing non-humans fighting one another and he would I fear just for entertainment as he does with Sekirei.

I glanced over at Matsu who was quivering and crying quietly at the expected fate that awaited her. I said nothing for a couple of full minutes while going back and forth in my mind on whether I should give Matsu a second chance or just kick her out to the street and be rid of her along with the issues that she brought. The probability that she would make any notable change for the better wasn't high by what I'd seen. It was far more likely that she would merely adjust her behavior to continue her unhealthy habits that had gotten her here and just try not to get caught by Miya or me. Matsu was a disaster waiting to cause problems for others and that was before you take into account her cleanliness and perverted habits which are both abysmal!

The internal argument would have kept going if I allowed it but it would be pointless right now. In the end, I muttered a bit under my breath and came to my decision, "Alright fine, I've come to my decision," I grumbled.

I turned to Matsu and glared at her, "Listen and listen carefully Matsu for I will only say this once. I will give you ONE more chance, that is all, and I do not normally do so for those who have pulled stunts like those you have," I stated. "And it will be on the conditions that you make real changes and improve your current behavior as it is unacceptable! That does not mean keeping up the habits that you've developed which got you into this situation, and just try to not get caught practicing them! You WILL obey both the rules of this house and not attempt to skirt around them hoping that you don't get caught or found out," I charged.

But rest assured, I didn't stop there, I would be specific on somethings and make it clear what would be going forward or else. "Plus, no more spying with those cameras of yours on anyone in this house. You do not need to know every little detail about everyone here, nor what they do every minute of the day as a peeping tom or pauperizes do. What happens in private areas is exactly that, private and not open to the scrutiny of or viewing by others for their own purposes. So, enough is enough, such activities are to cease and there are no exceptions in this condition."

"Mr. Landlord, I told you already," whispered Matsu.

I'd had enough of her lying by this point, so I jabbed a finger at Matsu, "SILENCE!" I shouted not letting Matsu keep going. "I will not accept your lying to get out of trouble and excuse yourself any longer! I know you are the one that puts them out and uses them Matsu even when I didn't say so directly before and you denied it. That time I tried to be nice and not accuse you straight out though I was well aware that you lied to me when you told me that you had no idea about them. All of that ends now since you have shown that indirect hints do not get a point across. Instead, you take such as free reign and a challenge to get away with as much as you can until you are forced to stop."

I pinned the redhead with my gaze, "Should I find any more of those cameras of yours again, or you violate either or both of the rules one more time, then you will face the punishment for it Matsu. If any of what I stated does occur, then I WILL personally kick you out to the street and then you are on your own to deal with all the problems that you have made for yourself. You will have no sanctuary here from the woes that you cause, past, present or future. There will be no one that will save you then as there is now; not Miya, not Minato, no one Matsu! Do I make myself crystal clear," I asked with ironclad tones.

Matsu bowed deeply to Miya and me, "YES! Thank you for your kindness in giving me another chance Mr. Landlord even though I don't deserve it! I will do as you say this time, I promise! Don't kick me out please," she replied desperately.

I don't believe her, and I won't until I see consistent signs that she is changing for the better, but I supposed this will be what I get for the time being. "Just be sure that you do as you promise Matsu, even my patience has its limits, and you have pushed mine to the breaking point," I returned. Then I narrowed my gaze as I wasn't going to let Matsu off with no punishment, that would encourage wrongdoing. "And for lying about your spying, your use of electricity will be restricted to three-quarters of what everyone else uses for the next month." Matsu's face paled a bit at the statement, yet I continued, "and that is not of their combined use but individual, no debates."

Matsu let out a cry before she begged me to reconsider the electricity use restriction. She began saying how she needed the power for things though as normal she didn't state for what she uses it for. But I wouldn't budge on this, she needed to be shown that there are punishments for disobedience. Her vice is information and her means of acquiring it is through those machines of hers which require power. Therefore, cut power usage will get her attention better than just telling her not to do something.

Once things were said and done, all but Miya and myself left the room leaving just the two of us. I slumped deeper into the sofa wondering if I'd done the right thing in the long run as I had serious doubts things with Matsu would change much. Tenants like Matsu were a risk to have, some like her had lived here before, and there were two basic results that they had. They either crossed the line and I kicked them out, or they changed for the better, I just can't say which way Matsu will go with certainty. "I really hope that I don't regret giving her a second chance when it is clear that she will not make any real changes, other than how she goes about her bad habits. I feel that I will wish that I had just put her out to the street and be done with it at some point in the coming months if not sooner," I muttered to myself tiredly.

Miya embraced me and kissed my cheek then pulled away slightly, to which I turned to look at her, "I believe you made your point Ashe. Matsu will seriously think about where she puts her things and I think it was nice that Minato actually stood up for her. You punished her in a way that she won't ignore," she said.

After Miya finished, I gave her a small grin, grateful that she was ever the voice of practical wisdom for me. It is a tad ironic as I'm supposed to be known for great wisdom by others, yet that is what Miya is giving me. "Let us hope so Miya. And yet… I don't know, I think I'm too nice for my own good sometimes," I remarked.

Miya giggled in response to me, "It's one of your good qualities Ashe and I love that you're truly kind to others even when they haven't earned it at all which many don't."

Music to my ears the wisdom Miya gives… I would rather not imagine what it would be like without Miya with me, it would be horrible misery. My smile widened at the same time I sneaked an arm around her back, then suddenly shifted our positions to have me lying flat on my back on the sofa and Miya on top of me. My action definitely caught Miya by surprise as she clutched at me as the shifting of positions occurred. However, our faces ended out being right in front of each other's and that had been what I had wanted. "What would I do without you by my side Miya," I asked softly.

Miya smiled at the question, "I doubt either of us want to imagine what it would be like without one another." She snuggled against me, "I love you Ashe."

My face was beaming at hearing Miya say that "I love you too Miya and more, I am grateful to the heavens that I met you. I would be still wandering through darkness and horrible misery if not for you," I replied.

We kissed warmly and stayed together for an amount of time since none disturbed our affectionate moment together. These simple moments with Miya are precious to me for they are what contribute to the happiness that we experience. There are somewhat rarer than they used to be, mostly because of the coming of tenants, but that's what made them more enjoyable.

-Miya's pov-

Ashe had gone off likely to search for Matsu, and I agreed with his suspicions about Matsu being up to something. For my husband to find cameras that Matsu has been putting out means to me that her habit of spying is unchanged. Matsu feels the need to know everything about those she is around including point that should be considered private. I learned that point from the times I had caught her spying on others and she had been viewing the events like a show of some sort. I'd tried to break Matsu of the spying habit much like her stealing activities, but where I had gotten the stealing to happen less, the spying never changed. It was as an addiction to her and I will never understand why, I simply had to instill boundaries for her to keep her from crossing lines.

With the cameras appearing in Minato's room, I can only assume two things with Matsu. She is reacting to him most likely and the boundaries that I had tried to put in years ago had gone away by this point. Reacting to another is one thing but should Matsu use that as an excuse to get away with things, it will not end well for her. I had specifically warned Matsu that following the rules here was an expectation and there would be consequences should she not. Whether she listened to my warning remains to be seen, but at this point I'm doubting it.

When noise came from the direction of the bathroom it caught my attention enough to make my way in that direction. However, by the time I'd reached the living room, I found Ashe heading for one of the sofas and it was clear that my husband was angry, and he so rarely was so. He had a wood bokutō within reach and his eyes were closed, those two points were not good signs. I quickly took a seat next to Ashe and leaned up against him communing with him without words. My thoughts and feelings were able to calm Ashe's anger yet while doing so I found out he was fuming over Matsu causing a serious issue. Apparently, she had broken not one but was in the process of breaking the second rule after disregarding the first.

Knowing that Matsu had gone and done what she had made me feel demined as it showed that she has not changed her habits. It had been me that had asked and convinced Ashe to give Matsu a chance when there was only Matsu's word that she had improved after all. Ashe had been moving towards saying no to Matsu before I had asked him to give her a chance. And now we see his intuition was right as it tends to be an embarrassingly, Matsu hadn't lasted beyond two months. I wondered if she would last long, but even this was a tad shorter time than I had predicted and it's sad.

I did manage to bring a semblance of order to my husband and gave him a clear mind, which he would need to judge Matsu. Ashe opened his eyes and looked at me, smiling at me, "You always seem to know how to help me, dearest to my heart. I would be drowning in horrible sickening emotions without you," he whispered to me sincerely.

I hummed softly to Ashe, my way of saying 'you're welcome' with things like this. We both had our own ways to help the other through things that had developed over the years that we had known each other. And It was more than our bond that made this flow with Ashe and me, it had come on its own, it was the relationship that had formed between us.

It was just after I calmed Ashe, Matsu shuffled into the room, obviously scared of the current air and situation. No tenant had pushed against the line that had been defined to them upon being accepted as a tenant even amount those that Ashe had before now hadn't done so for a while. Ashe has set boundaries for those that come to live at Izumo Inn, and as long as those are followed things tend to be fine. However, when those boundaries are crossed then Ashe is clear as to what comes next and that is a punishment. The punishment may vary depending on what was done, but with what Matsu did, being kicked out is what Ashe does.

Ashe was about to start the reprimand and handing out punishment, but Minato, Musubi, and Kuu came into the room where we were before he could. The second that Kuu saw Matsu her eyes widened, and she gained a scared expression on her face. She scurried over to Ashe and climbed into his lap clinging to him while she trembled with fright, which didn't make sense to me. Kuu was also whispering things, the word 'ghost' came to my ears a few times which didn't explain much to me but seemed to bring understanding to Ashe. My only guess it that Kuu may have by chance crossed paths with Matsu and the encounter scared her.

So to begin with, I told Matsu to introduce herself to those here that hadn't met her before now as she had been held up in her room most of the time to help things move along. Matsu did as I told her to do, while Ashe consoled Kuu. Shortly after Matsu's introduction, Ashe laid out the incident she had been involved in. He didn't allow Matsu to say anything in her defense while he stated what she had been caught doing. And I had to say that though I wasn't all that surprised by what Matsu had done, I wasn't pleased with hearing what action she had committed either.

Once Ashe finished, he summed up the event, "So then Matsu," he started calmly. Matsu shivered as Ashe spoke, "You have made it clear that rules mean nothing to you since you ignore and disregard them whenever you can get away with it."

Ashe paused for a moment to take a breath, "I suspected you were the type to do so while you were pleading your case of being a tenant and begged to be allowed to stay here. However, like those who ask to be tenants here before you, I gave you an opportunity to prove the contrary to me. Yet, you instead of using that opportunity to prove yourself deserving of a chance, you gave into your habits which leads to the current situation. It merely reinforced the suspicions I had of you and that you still have habits that you need to rid yourself of. Why you would think the rules wouldn't apply to you like they do everyone else is beyond me, but that doesn't matter really."

Ashe paused, took a deep breath, before he continued, "You were made aware that there would be consequences awaiting you should you violate either rule. Sadder still, you were even told clearly what those consequences would be Matsu and warned that it would be unwise to test them, yet you believe that they won't fall."

I had indeed explained both of the rules of Izumo Inn to Matsu, and she had said that she understood them. For her benefit, I had even asked twice to make sure she knew that it would not go well for her if she attempted to either skirt around the rule or break them before trying to get out of punishment. It had been what Matsu did such things before now, I remember some of the things she would do while I was working for MBI. She had become unfortunately rather skilled at worming her way out of responsibility. So much so that she would do that rather than admit what wrong she did and move forward.

I want to hope and believe that when Matsu said she had changed and turned over a new leaf and that she meant it. However, she was not one to change often and usually only when she is forced to do so, and even then it might not work. Her past record makes a clear statement that she will continue in what she does and do her utmost to not have blame or responsibility fall on her for anything. So the hope of change is overshadowed by the lack of credibility that Matsu has, if it can't be proved consistently, then it doesn't happen.

My husband took a moment to take another deep breath, "That being established, what do you have to say for yourself Matsu? Can you even give me a conceivable reason that I would even consider accepting that would explain how the scene I witnessed could be a viable accident and not premeditative rule violation? For right now, with the standing evidence I have, I will be enacting the punishment stated to you and kicking you out to the street today."

Matsu was trembling a bit as she rose from the chair and approached Ashe and me, "Please Mr. Landlord! This isn't what you think it is, I have a reason for what I've done, and it was necessary! I deeply apologize for this trespass," Matsu stuttered back to us.

Signs of Matsu's long-practiced habits were showing to me so, I didn't believe the excuse. Yet, instead of explaining any further to Ashe after the apology as she should, she turned to me and crawled forward toward me on her hands and knees. "Miya you understand right? When you react to someone the urge isn't one that you can simply ignore, it's too strong."

I was able to keep my face appearing calm, but internally I was very displeased that she would try using the excuse of reacting to get out of the trouble she was now in. Yes, the thought had occurred to me that Matsu may use the excuse, but I had told her that it wouldn't work to get out of trouble. Apparently, she hadn't heeded the advice that I had given her yet that isn't new sadly.

Reacting is a unique experience for a Sekirei and for Matsu to use that to get away with doing that which she was informed not to do was infuriating! Then the other thing is for her to come to me in order to get out of what was going to come to her was wrong for two reasons. The first and more irritating point, Matsu was trying to have me vouch for her as she had done before now, and now that was to get Ashe to not punish her. The second part is that Matsu was attempting to force me to choose between her and Ashe, which my choice in that was made. If I was forced to choose between another and Ashe, I'll choose my husband each and every time.

It was possible that Matsu has figured out that Ashe isn't one that can be talked out of letting wrongdoing slide. "Matsu, your apology is of no interest as it is not sincere, it's only meant to get me to wave this off. And going to Miya to plead your case will not help you, not with her or me. I do know to what you are referring, whether you think I do or not even should what you say to be true, you could have and really should have approached this differently than you did. Approaching Minato while he was in the bathroom to discuss this with him was wrong. Nonetheless, you also chose to use violence towards another tenant here, and then you pretty much are just about to have sex with yet another, or am I mistaken? That is what I saw happening and your reactions thus far only provide further evidence of that," Ashe posed with a growing cold tone.

Ashe knows about the subject of 'reacting' for Sekirei, I've explained it to him in detail as we had agreed there should be as little secrets between us as was possible. And it wasn't that Matsu hadn't thought of approaching Minato outside the bathroom and properly I would bet. No, I'm surer she planned out what occurred hoping not to be caught when all was said and done. Musubi coming back with tatters of clothes and saying something about 'lights coming down from the sky' sounds more like Matsu putting in an effort to eliminating what she saw as variables. With the perversions that Matsu has developed, I wouldn't doubt that if Ashe hadn't been there, she would have tried to have sex with Minato.

"NO! That's not what was happening," Matsu squeaked in a panic.

I glared at Matsu, which served to silence her, "You use a gun to fire a net to trap a fellow tenant violating one rule, then you are found over another, completely naked and just about to knowingly violate the second rule. How else should we consider your actions Matsu?! You have always had contempt and negligence towards rules and guidelines since the start. You said that you had turned over a new leaf and changed when you came here. I had hoped that you had done just that by this point with the time that has passed, that you had seen the error of such thinking. It was why you were given a chance to be a tenant here, but apparently, you still believe rules apply to everyone else and not you. So, you haven't changed really at all," I accused.

Matsu waved her arms at what I said, "NO NO NO NO! That's not true Miya, I have made changes for the better as I said! What happened wasn't supposed to occur, I had the net gun on hand just in case, I didn't think I would have to use it," Matsu said in desperation. Then she pointed at Musubi, "She shouldn't have been in the bathroom, it's all her fault things ended out the way they did! Everything would have been fine if she hadn't been there!"

Musubi just looked confused as to what Matsu was talking about. A sigh escaping Ashe regained Matsu's attention, "So, that's your excuse to worm your way out of this? You should just say that 'if Musubi hadn't walked in, then I would've gotten away with violating the rules and have no one be the wiser of me doing so'. The lack of your integrity has passed beyond pitiful Matsu, face up for what you do and accept the consequences, then others might believe you'll do what you claim you will. Plus, you're not helping yourself, instead, you're admitting that you violated the first rule of this house," Ashe stated.

I leaned gently against Ashe to help him stay in control as he took in a breath, rubbing his temples. "Still, that doesn't change the fact that you were over Minato, naked I might add and about to do an act that has been clearly stated as forbidden here," he said flatly.

Ashe paused for a minute, deciding how to word what he wanted to convey, for this would be the example that would be used for the others here. "Anyways, back to the point of this accounting Matsu, none of what you have said has changed the fact that you have broken the rules of the house. Nor does it either justify your actions or help your failing integrity. There are consequences for breaking rules, and whether you like it or not, you will face them not get to choose what they are. There is no amount of talking or lying that will get you out of this as it may have in previous issues," Ashe said.

He pointed a finger at Matsu, who flinched and drew back a bit, "You agreed to adhere to the rules of Izumo Inn when you signed the contract for being a tenant here," my husband charged firmly. Then he took up the contract Matsu had signed, showing it to her, "This form means, whether you read it entirely or not, that you then acknowledged and agree to be held accountable for following the rules in place and know of their consequences if broken. You said that you had no questions about any of this when we asked," he stated, putting down the form and glared at the woman. "So then Matsu, it is time you face the ramifications of your actions, that's how contractual agreements work. Should you wish for someone to blame, you only have yourself, you are reaping what harvest you have sown. Now, it's time to face your punishment, there has been enough stalling from you."

The punishment for Matsu was clear for what she had done though I had hoped that she would shape up to not have to face this. But the hope she'd changed for the better was in vain as she still practices the same habits she had before. Matsu would be kicked out of Izumo Inn and then she would deal with her issues she has with MBI she created for herself. Matsu was muttering unintelligibly to what Ashe stated, but he wasn't in the mood to listen to any of it. Ashe was going to put his foot down and I doubt that I could do anything to change his mind at this point. But then, Matsu had used the opportunity to explain what had happened, where she could have told the truth and made things easier for herself to lie and attempt to get out of her punishment.

"Ashe please wait," piped up Minato

Minato's exclamation brought the whole situation to a standstill, and all attention turned to him as he kept going, "Couldn't you give Matsu another chance? Yes, she came into the bathroom while I was in there when she shouldn't. Yes, she did shoot a net at Musubi, but she didn't do any real harm to either of us and I don't believe she meant anything bad. So please, couldn't you give her another opportunity to show she can follow the rules set," he pled.

For Minato to stand up for Matsu even when he had been told what she had done to him, it was unexpected. Takami Sahashi is nothing like her son is and so I'm left to wonder where he learned such behavior. It did certainly leave Ashe to think over the pros and cons of changing his decision on tossing out Matsu. He glanced over to Matsu who was quivering and crying quietly at the expected fate that awaited her. Ashe said nothing for a couple of full minutes, and I could sense some of the conflicts in his mind. He certainly didn't believe that Matsu would change, just continued what she did in a different way. To be honest, I agreed with such sediments Ashe had, I didn't think that Matsu would change, past experience painted that picture.

In the end, Ashe muttered a bit under his breath before he spoke, "Alright fine, I've come to my decision." Ashe focused on Matsu and glared at her, "Listen and listen carefully Matsu for I will only say this once. I will give you ONE more chance, that is all, and I do not normally do so for those who have pulled stunts like those you have. And it will be on the conditions that you make real changes and improve your current behavior as it is unacceptable! That does not mean keeping up the habits that you've developed which got you into this situation, and just try to not get caught practicing them! You WILL obey both the rules of this house and not attempt to skirt around them hoping that you don't get caught or found out. Plus, no more spying with those cameras of yours on anyone in this house. You do not need to know every little detail about everyone here, nor what they do every minute of the day. What happens in private areas is exactly that, private and not open to the scrutiny of or viewing by others for their own purposes. So, enough is enough, such activities are to cease," Ashe growled.

So then, Ashe knew that Matsu was putting out the cameras and using them to spy on much of the house. I had been irritated when I had begun finding them and I had intended to confront her about them, but Ashe apparently had already brought it up. "Mr. Landlord, I told you already," started whispering Matsu.

Ashe jabbed a finger at Matsu, "SILENCE!" he shouted. "I will not accept your lying to get out of trouble and excuse yourself any longer! I know you are the one that puts them out and uses them Matsu even when I didn't say so directly before and you denied it. That time I tried to be nice and not accuse you straight out though I was well aware that you lied to me when you told me that you had no idea about them. All of that ends now since you have shown that indirect hints do not get a point across. Instead, you take such as free reign and a challenge to get away with as much as you can until you are forced to stop."

He pinned the redhead with his gaze, "Should I find any more of those cameras of yours again, or you violate either or both of the rules one more time, then there will be a serious price for you to pay Matsu. If any of what I stated does occur, then I WILL personally kick you out to the street and then you are on your own to deal with all the problems that you have made for yourself. You will have no sanctuary here from the woes that you cause, past, present or future. There will be no one that will save you then as there is now; not Miya, not Minato, no one Matsu! Do I make myself crystal clear," Ashe asked with ironclad tones.

Matsu bowed deeply to us, "YES! Thank you for your kindness in giving me another chance Mr. Landlord, even though I don't deserve it! I will do as you say this time, I promise! Don't kick me out please," she replied desperately.

"Just be sure that you do as you promise Matsu, even my patience has its limits, and you have pushed mine to the breaking point," Ashe returned. Then he narrowed his gaze, "And for lying about your spying, your use of electricity will be restricted to three-quarters of what everyone else uses for the next month." Matsu's face paled a bit at the statement, yet Ashe continued, "and that is not of their combined use but individual, no debates."

Matsu let out a cry and begged Ashe to reconsider the electricity restriction, but he didn't budge, and I think it's more than fair for what she has done. Matsu had tried saying how she needed the power for things though as normal she didn't state for what she uses it for. But Ashe held firm with his decision and showed her that there are punishments for disobedience. Ashe had figured out Matsu's vice is information and her means of acquiring it is through her computers which require power. It was a form of punishment that Matsu couldn't ignore or get around and that was impressive actually.

All but Ashe and myself left the room, once it was just the two of us, he slumped deeper into the sofa, not fully happy with how things had ended out. He was wondering if he'd done the right thing in the long run for Ashe had serious doubts about Matsu. Matsu was a risk to have here from the beginning and I'd known that, but I had convinced Ashe to give her the chance. "I really hope that I don't regret giving her a second chance when it is clear that she will not make any real changes, other than how she goes about her bad habits. I feel that I will wish that I had just put her out to the street and be done with it at some point in the coming months if not sooner," Ashe muttered to himself tiredly.

I embraced my husband and kissed him on the cheek before pulling away as he turned to look at me. "I believe you made your point Ashe. Matsu will seriously think about where she puts her things and I think it was nice that Minato actually stood up for her. You punished her in a way that she won't ignore," I said.

After I'd finished, Ashe gave me a small grin, "Let us hope so Miya. And yet… I don't know, I think I'm too nice for my own good sometimes," he remarked.

I couldn't help but giggle in response to Ashe's remark, "It's one of your good qualities Ashe and I love that you're truly kind to others, even when they haven't earned it at all, which many don't."

My husband smiled wider, then the next thing I realized, Ashe had sneaked an arm around my back before he suddenly shifted our positions. Ashe moved to lay flat on his back on the sofa while I was now on top of him. His action definitely caught me by surprise as I'd clutched at him as the shifting of positions occurred. However, our faces ended out being right in front of each other's and that had been what he'd clearly wanted. "What would I do without you by my side Miya," he asked me softly.

I felt a smile come at the question, "I doubt either of us want to imagine what it would be like without one another." I snuggled against my husband and ashikabi, "I love you Ashe."

His smile widened at hearing me say that, "I love you too Miya and more, I am grateful to the heavens that I met you. I would be still wandering through darkness and horrible misery if not for you," he replied.

We kissed warmly and stayed together for an amount of time since none disturbed our affectionate moment together. These simple moments with Ashe are precious to me for they are what contribute to the happiness that we experience.

In the next few days, Matsu winged herself to Minato which was made obvious to me with how she acted around him going forward. Although, I became disappointed to find cameras starting to pop up not too long after the incident that had almost gotten her kicked out. It showed that Matsu had learned nothing of value and she was doing exactly the same things as before. I removed them before Ashe saw or found them giving Matsu a chance to 'wane off' if that was what was happening though that is doubtful. If she keeps going, then Ashe would do as he stated and kick Matsu out of Izumo Inn. If not for Minato's intervention, I'm sure that she would have suffered that fate as Ashe had been fully in the mindset to kick her to the street.

However, on to other things for the present morning, Minato was getting ready to head out to do whatever he was, while Ashe and I were also going out to do the shopping. Before any of us left, Kuu made it known that she wished to accompany Minato on his outing. Minato said something to the effect to Kuu needing to ask Ashe for permission. That transitioned into Kuu coming over to my husband asking if she could go with Minato jumping up and down excitedly saying 'pretty please'. As Ashe has a soft spot for cuteness, he just wasn't able to say no to Kusano and her request.

It was kind of amusing to watch Ashe try to resist Kusano's begging to let her go, but he failed spectacularly. And so, she was told that she could accompany Minato to wherever he was heading to which Kuu appeared happy. At least she hugged Ashe and thanked him, and he was forced to assert control to stop his non-human features from appearing by what I felt from him. Ashe's fox ears had just started to rise before I placed a hand on his head assisting him in keeping his fox ears from being spotted. It would bring complications if our tenants found out that Ashe isn't human, more so with some than others.

Ashe and I left the house at the same time that Minato and Kuu did, the blonde girl having a potted plant on her head, perhaps at the suggestion of Ashe to be prepared if things came to a fight. But it was clear that Ashe was still marginally worried about Kuu. He felt that she was his responsibility and felt similar feelings to what he had with Kai, yet he ended out dismissing the worry mostly. My husband and I went toward the market for the needed shopping to be done… again while Minato and Kuu went one way. Unfortunately, Sekirei have monstrous appetites compared to what humans do though I don't have the idea like other Sekirei do. My guess is that the increased appetite has something to do with the adjustments that MBI did, but I can't be sure.

We went to the market area that we usually went to since the prices are fair and what you can get there is good quality. We'd gotten everything that we needed and so were on our way back to the house, when the good day changed completely. Ashe had suggested that we go and see how the spring festival preparations were going. The idea sounded good and it acted as a sweet reminder of our upcoming anniversary, which I believed was one of his reasons for the suggestion. It will be five years this year since we were married and what wonderful years it has been for us.

Nonetheless, along our way, we came across a woman that I loathed greatly and hadn't wanted to see. The sight of Karasuba was extremely unwelcome to me as she's a reminder of what I left behind when I turned my back on MBI. Then Karasuba and I never really got along, our personalities just clashed too much for that. Ashe also seemed to stiffen at seeing Karasuba feelings of disgust and hatred came from him, but I couldn't say why.

When Karasuba saw me she smiled, "Well well Miya, it's been a long time since we've been around each other, hasn't it? You've made quite the cozy place for yourself since you left… Izumo Inn I believe it said on the sign," she said in a flat, casual voice.

I clenched my jaw at hearing that and my hands formed into fists in response. What she had said implied to me that she had gone to my home and I wouldn't let her step foot inside there if I had seen her at the front door! I was about to summon my sword, yet Karasuba continued, "Don't you worry yourself or get riled up, I didn't take anything this time, merely making a visit to someone that lives there," she said in an almost playful tone, clearly baiting me to attack her.

I had to hold myself back from striking her, my anger and hatred of Karasuba temporarily blinding me. But I took a moment to calm myself, then glared at the woman, "You get off with a warning this time Karasuba. However, don't you dare set foot in my home again if you wish to keep living as you are! Do so again and I will personally see that you have your last day," I growled menacingly.

Karasuba chuckled at my reply, "Still the same as always, you haven't changed in the slightest, but… are you still as fast," she posed.

At the challenge, I focused on Karasuba and rushed forward and were I to have a sword in hand, she would have had a deep slice in her torso. Karasuba hadn't drawn her nodachi, but she smiled at seeing my movements before she laughed, "I see you are, how interesting and heartening that is to see."

The tension was thick as we stared each other down, "I believe it is time you move along Miss, things won't go nicely should you not," Ashe said in a low, cold voice.

It was hearing Ashe's voice that I realized that Ashe had moved from being by my side to being in front of Karasuba parallel to her path without either of us noticing. I knew that he was faster and stronger than Sekirei in general, even me already, but Karasuba was caught by surprise and off-guard. Karasuba quickly glanced back to where I was, then back to Ashe processing the fact that Ashe had moved to where he was without her noticing.

Ashe's lips curled upward and he quietly growled sounding like one from the canine family as he continued to face her. Karasuba's hand shifted towards her sword, "Don't even think about it," Ashe snarled before chopping the hand that held the sword with his right hand.

The sound of the sword clattering to the ground echoed around us, then there was a moment of silence. Karasuba in response to being disarmed, she became somewhat giddy, "My my Miya, you have a very interesting companion with you," she said with fascination in her voice.

That irked me greatly as I wouldn't let Karasuba do anything to Ashe, he was mine harm would not come to him while I'm able in any way to prevent it. I wouldn't doubt that Ashe could beat Karasuba on his own, he can match me. But I would kill Karasuba before she would try and attack Ashe with the intent to best and kill him. In fact, I was getting ready to summon my sword to fight Karasuba if that became necessary.

Ashe on the other hand didn't lose his cold expression, nor did his lip drop from being curled, "Take heed Karasuba, those who are tenants at Izumo Inn are not targets to harm or do worse to by you or any from MBI, Sekirei or human if they wish to continue existing. Anyone who threatens our tenants will experience pain the likes of which none can imagine. They will greet the agents of death coming for them as heralds of mercy as they will release them from the indescribable agony, I personally guarantee that" he growled emotionlessly.

Karasuba picked up the sword she was forced to drop and resumed her journey to wherever she was going to. But the grin she had was not one I liked in any way as it was directed at my ashikabi along with having to see Karasuba again wasn't nice at all for me. It made me look back to how things had been for me before I had met Ashe. It was a time I wished to forget and leave behind for good and move forward. It wasn't too long after Karasuba left that Ashe came over to me and enveloping me in an embrace, "Miya, are you alright," he asked, worry evident.

My voice didn't do as I directed, all I could do was to hug Ashe back. Nevertheless, we years ago had come to the point that we didn't need words anymore between each other, our bond had made them unnecessary to understand what the other felt. Ashe no doubt could feel that I'd been hurt by what Karasuba had said about not changing, it had served to make me remember how things had been. Ashe had changed so many things for me, my views and the quality of life, words could not say how grateful I was to him for that.

Ashe kept me in his arms and held us together kissing my forehead, "That woman is wrong Miya, you have changed and for the better love. I would know for I remember the way you were before, and I can tell you without any doubt that you've come a long way from where you were," he assured. My husband's words were somewhat comforting for I knew he meant what he said and that it came from his heart. But he didn't stop there, "We," he emphasized referring to both of us, "have come a long way from the places we stood when we first met. Neither of us would have made the progress alone, we needed one another to move forward from the pasts that were holding us back and shackling us."

I couldn't help the surge of love I felt towards Ashe, he always seemed to know what to say to make me smile. And he was saying how much I'd helped him just as he had helped me change and that meant a lot to me. Where I had come off as a cold-hearted killer, mostly as that was the impression I gave to others, that was not who I was truly. As for Ashe, he had put up a warm exterior, but it had been an act for under that he had been even colder and unfeeling than I and I hadn't thought any could be colder than me back then. His heart had been frozen for centuries to deaden the pain from the conflicts he had lived through and so he'd been pretty much unfeeling. Ashe had said it was to prevent him from becoming a monster or demon, which he had come close according to him.

Only Takehito had seemed to have gotten past that to a degree with Ashe, but even he hadn't reached to his heart or soul. It had been through getting to know one another that Ashe and I had changed each other a great deal. It had happened by small degrees and had affected both of us more than others either of us had interacted with before had done. And looking back, it was amazing to see how much had changed in the years that have gone by.

Ashe did manage to comfort me, he has become skilled at that over the time we've been married. We continued to the shrine, finding that festival preparations were coming along nicely and that improved our mood an amount. Everything looked like it would be ready in time, and with the first day of the festival was also the wedding anniversary for us, I was left to wonder. Ashe always put forth the effort to surprise me for our anniversary and each year had been different than those before. He would normally give me a kimono, but he would always get something else too and that would be where the surprise came in.

-Ashe's pov-

Karasuba picked up the sword I forced her to drop and resumed her journey to wherever she was going to. The woman had not been nice to be around, not just because she perturbed Miya, but also put off sicken bloodlust. It reminded me an amount of being around the demon Oda and I detested being reminded of that evil individual. Once Karasuba was gone, I made my way over to Miya and embraced her firmly, "Miya, are you alright," I asked worry evident.

Miya hugged me back but said nothing to me, but then, we years ago had come to the point that we didn't need words anymore, our bond had made them unnecessary to understand what the other felt. Miya had been hurt by what Karasuba had said about not changing for she disliked being reminded of what she had been like before. I kept holding Miya against me kissing her on her forehead, "That woman is wrong Miya, you have changed and for the better love. I would know for I remember the way you were before, and I can tell you without any doubt that you've come a long way from where you were. We," I emphasized the reference to both of us, "have come a long way from the places we stood when we first met. Neither of us would have made the progress along, we needed one another to move forward from our pasts that was shackling us," I reassured the one who had brightened my life during her time of need.

It was the truth, Miya had been seen as a cold-hearted killer, and that's the impression she gave to others. However, I was perhaps worse as I had put up a warm exterior, but my heart had frozen over with the centuries that had passed. It had been the only way that deaden the pain from war at all and so I'd been unfeeling for a long while. I did that to prevent myself from drowning in the horrors and transforming into a demonic being. Only Takehito had gotten past that with me, but even he hadn't reached to my heart or soul. Those had been closed off to all others even those who served me, and they tried to help but could not.

I had closed off most real emotion I had once felt out to prevent further pain and issues from the past. Itsumi's death had gotten close to transforming me into a demon and so to prevent that I had become as I had been before Miya. Only children could get past that much and they were what helped me not lose more than what I had from what I'd lived through. Yet through getting to know one another, Miya and I had changed each other a great deal by small degrees, more than others either of us had interacted with before had done.

I did manage to comfort Miya before we continued to the shrine finding that festival preparations were coming along nicely and that improved our mood an amount. Everything should be ready in time, and the first day of the festival was also the wedding anniversary for Miya and myself… and I have plans for this year. I'm even thinking of surprising Miya by bringing Kai around the festival. Kai had been just a little too young before now, so we'll see if that can't be brought about for it would cheer Miya up greatly along with myself as well.

Miya and I headed home after checking on the preparations of the festival that would begin in a few days. I was thinking what to get Miya to commemorate the fifth year of us being together and had a few ideas. We had come in and had just gotten done putting the food we bought away when the sound of an unfamiliar voice caught the attention of Miya and myself. "Thou Charlton! Thee and thy fellow tramps here are not fit to be his wives! There is but one fit for such a position and that is me alone! The position of a concubine is all that thou can be suited for and even that thee fails at!"

Well, I was certainly taken aback at not only hearing the unfamiliar female voice but also its manner and structure of speech since I've not heard anyone speak like that for centuries! I went into the living room, Miya following right behind me and got to see a scene that unlike any that I had seen for a long period of time, centuries at least. Minato was on one side of the living room along with Musubi and Kuu at his sides, both Sekirei appearing to be in stances to protect him.

Opposite of them was another female Sekirei which wasn't a tenant here and I have never seen her before now. She was around the same height as Musubi, possessed long blonde hair and ocean blue eyes a rarer combination in Japan. She wore a black dress with a white underdress, which had a short skirt and showed a portion of her bust. There was also a choker around her neck and wore almost knee length brown boots with black stockings.

Again, I'm left to seriously wonder who's in charge of clothing for Sekirei at MBI as from what I've seen the general manner of dress done is not very acceptable. And the group needs to be thrown into prison for what they do as it can be a crime with what some of the Sekirei wear. If it's Minaka that comes up with the clothing designs, then change prison to a mental institution or nut house and make it so he has no chance of leaving it ever. Whatever happened to manners and not exposing oneself like those from the red-light district?

Miya and I watched this scene for a minute and learned nothing as to answer who this woman was and why she was here. The three just fought over Minato which the boy wasn't taking well so, I decided that it would be easier to just ask. "What might I ask, is going on here," I stated loudly gaining everyone's attention.

The blonde woman spun around and looked at me, then Miya, "Whom might thou both be," she demanded.

I glared back at the Sekirei and she stiffened a bit, "I would be the Landlord for this establishment young lady, and the wonderful woman next to me is my wife who is the manager here. Now, I have told you who we are even when traditional manners would have you telling us who are first, so whom art thou? Then, what might I ask is going on here for violence is still not permitted here," I said flatly, my gaze going overall in the room to which the rest of the tenants stiffened a bit.

"Well… you see Ashe," began Minato however, he was drowned out as the blonde woman resumed chastising Musubi who was clinging to Minato.

I was mystified as well as kind of annoyed at being ignored as none answered my inquiry, I dislike being ignored unless I want to be. But then, Kuu came over to me and tugged on my sleeve to get my attention. When I looked down, she motioned for me to come down to her level, which without hesitation I lowered myself down to her level. Kuu then started whispering into my ear telling me what had happened to bring on this current situation.

She began with her and Minato going out looking for this very blonde woman who apparently, Minato had seen in dreams, much like I had Kuu herself. Minato and Kuu had looked high and low for her and didn't find her until midday. When Minato and Kuu had found this blonde woman, things had quickly shifted from good to bad. The blonde had attacked Minato for some reason which neither Kuu nor Minato had figured out nor understood. However, the woman shouting something along the lines of 'filthy monkey' and 'violating' could have something to do with it. That didn't make exact sense as Minato came off as a very good and honorable young man and not a pervert like Seo is.

Kuu, for her part, had protected Minato, which I am very proud of her for being brave and protecting another. Minato had ended out winging the blonde… in order to protect her from a 'man' that had appeared with two 'other mean lightning girls' as Kuu called them. The man Kuu described to me sounded a lot like the lazy pervert Seo Karou. If it was indeed him, then he and I will be having a serious talk soon and I WILL be making him uncomfortable with it. There have been a couple of talks I've had with the man and each time they came up he came out of them scared of me. Yet, I dressed him down and chastised him as I saw necessary and so time would soon come again.

As for the 'two mean lightning girls', I can't say whom Kuu was referring to, perhaps Sekirei… there's not enough information to tell. If so, I pity them if Seo is their Ashikabi with how lazy the mooching bum is along with him being a pervert. Although I couldn't help the smile that came to my lips when Kuu mentioned "Seo" getting shocked by the two girls with him. The picture of Seo being struck by something akin to plasma energy or lightning bolts as is their normal form is amusing to me, especially with some of the trouble Seo has put me through.

Once the fight was said and done, Minato explained to the blonde woman how he had seen her in a dream. Minato had shown uncommon courage telling her that he wanted to her to be his Sekirei. I hope that is a sign of developing self-confidence for Minato as he really does need it. Then, after the winging had taken place, Kuu had reappeared and had gone to Minato to check that he was alright with all that had happened. As she was doing so, the blonde woman had gotten the assumption that Kuu was Minato's Sekirei which was incorrect as she is mine. Still, Miss Blonde had 'kept' her cool by saying that Kuu was just a child and so nothing to worry about. The woman said something to do with the position in the response, which didn't make complete sense.

Kuu told me that she didn't understand what the blonde had said as she had been using "odd words" that she didn't know. From the words that Kuu recalled and told me, my guess is this Sekirei's 'adjuster' had for whatever reason, taught Miss Blonde that pecking order is important. The mentality of the one on top is the one in control is foolish sediment if you ask me and has rarely helped from past observation. Musubi had appeared shortly afterward, then things got worse as the blonde had shown herself to be the jealous type and had attacked Minato again.

Kuu finished up by telling me they had returned here afterward with her leading the way. With what Kuu had told me, the current situation made a little more sense than before, still not fully understand though. I rose back up to my full height before I patted Kuu on the head saying she had done a good job today. Kuu smiled at me, then she moved to my side and slipped a hand into one of mine, her way of showing that she was happy being with me. I then turned my attention back to Minato and two out of his three Sekirei. Matsu wasn't in the room at the moment, but the sound of her voice got me to see that she was in the hall giggling about the scene no doubt, which is better than the chaos that she could be adding to it. "And what might your name be young lady? I still have yet to hear one for you and it is very rude to not give yours as you were given ours," I said in a loud voice, served to silence them for the moment.

-Miya's pov-

Ashe and I had gotten back home, but when we had, we found that Minato had come back with yet another Sekirei. She had announced her presence rather uniquely, "Thou Charlton! Thee and thy fellow tramps here are not fit to be his wives! There is but one fit for such a position and that is me alone! The position of a concubine is all that thou can be suited for and even that thee fails at!"

Ashe was as taken aback as I was for such manner of speech was different and by the inference, the speaker was likely a Sekirei. If that was true, I would assume that whoever the Sekirei's adjuster had been was responsible for teaching the manner of speech. We both headed for the living room and came upon a bizarre scene. Minato was on one side of the living room, along with Musubi and Kuu at his sides, both appearing to be in stances to protect him from the third Sekirei.

That third Sekirei was around the same height as Musubi, possess long blonde hair and ocean blue eyes. She wore a black dress with a white underdress, which had a short skirt and showed a portion of her bust. There was also a choker around her neck and wore almost knee length brown boots with black stockings. Her name was I believe Tsukiumi if I recall though this is the first time I've seen her in person. According to Matsu, she was rather infamous for not wanting an ashikabi, so then why is she here is my question.

Ashe and I watched this scene for a minute and learned nothing as to answer who this woman was and why she was here. The three seemed to be fighting over Minato and he wasn't liking the fight. So, Ashe moved forward, "What might I ask, is going on here," he stated loudly, gaining everyone's attention.

The blonde woman turned and looked at Ashe, then at me, "Whom might thou both be?!" She demanded.

Ashe glared back at the Sekirei and she stiffened a bit, "I would be the Landlord for this establishment Missy, and the wonderful woman next to me is my wife who is the manager here." Ashe gestured at me when he introduced me, before he went on, "Now, I have told you who we are even when traditional manners would have you telling us who are first, so whom art thou? Then, what might I ask is going on here for violence is still not permitted here," he said flatly, my gaze going overall in the room to which the rest of the tenants stiffened a bit.

"Well… you see Ashe," began Minato however, he was drowned out as the blonde woman resumed chastising Musubi who was clinging to Minato.

Watching didn't help either Ashe or me to ascertain what was going on here, but then Kuu came over to Ashe and tugged on his sleeve to get my husband's attention. When Ashe looked down, Kusano motioned for him to come down to her level, which he did without hesitation. Kuu then started whispering into his ear, I believe telling Ashe what had happened to bring on this current situation. I lowered myself down to better hear what Kusano was saying to Ashe and I did hear the words 'filthy monkey' and 'violating' which didn't tell me much about what Kuu was telling Ashe. The situation that had come to this was rather a confusion to me from what I heard.

When Kuu finished up, Ashe and I rose back up to our full heights and he patted Kuu on the head, saying she had done a good job today. Kuu smiled at him, then she moved to his side and slipped a hand into one of Ashe's, her way of showing that she was happy being with her ashikabi I think. Ashe then turned his attention back to Minato and the two Sekirei, though Matsu was in the hall giggling about this scene as her voice was making clear. "And what might your name be young lady? I still have yet to hear one for you and it is very rude to not give yours as you were given ours," Ashe said in a loud voice, serving to silence them for the moment.

The blonde woman drew herself up, folded her arms under her chest making her bust more pronounced as she did so. "I am Tsukiumi, Minato's wife," she stated with pride.

Ashe blinked twice at the claim that was just made while I held in the scoff that was coming up my throat. She had a lot of nerve to claim that she was Minato's wife even if she was winged by him if that indeed was true and there had been only Kuu saying anything to the effect. Yet, Musubi then chimed in that she was Minato's wife too before grabbing Minato himself and pulling him to her front. Matsu was laughing and say how this was like watching a "soap opera", I'm more surprised that she isn't adding to the chaos as she had a hobby of doing such.

Ashe was trying to decide whether he should collapse to the floor and laugh or reprimand those causing the scene. I sent Ashe a stern thought to help him choose what I saw as the right decision in this and he got the message. The first thing he did, was to send a look in Matsu's direction to get her to hush up, then Ashe faced the rest, "Quite the bold claim Tsukiumi. I assume that you have a way to prove such a thing such as a marriage certificate of some sort," he posed evenly.

Ashe was right in asking for evidence of the claim Tsukiumi made, and so I waited for the answer she would give. Ashe is usually trusting of other people and what they say, still when it comes to things like marriage and other serious points proof is something you should have. Tsukiumi was silent to the question, and clearly, she was put into an internal conundrum before she looked back at Ashe, "Our bond is enough," she challenged.

A bond she claims to have is a contract, whether that could become a bond in the future is another matter. The two are not the same thing even if others would claim they are, I've learned that personally. "Is that so," Ashe posed then he appeared pensive for a moment. "Okay if that is true, then let me ask you, when were you married? Where was the ceremony done? What were some of the vows you exchanged? You should be at least able to answer those questions if you are truly Minato's wife should you not," he continued.

Tsukiumi gained a tick mark as she kept thinking about how to answer Ashe's questions while Minato was turning red from the implications. After a bit, Tsukiumi glared at Ashe, "As I stated, our bond is enough, thou incessant jester," she snapped, summoning water from the air.

That reply would not slide, nor would Tsukiumi be allowed to refer to Ashe as she had in my presence. No one insults my ashikabi, let alone my husband in front of me and get away with it without facing the consequences! I used the magic that Ashe had taught me to have a wooden bokutō to appear in my right hand. Then I moved forward raising the bokutō and gripping the handle with both hands and whacked both Tsukiumi and Musubi on their heads. "Enough, violence is not permitted here at all," I stated firmly.

-Ashe's pov-

I know that my wife was defending me, and she also dislikes someone insulting me which Tsukiumi's reference to me was an insult. I would do the same for her were our positions reversed without hesitation. Although when Miya began put off her demonic visage, it took effort not to laugh as it was from me she has learned how to put off a demonic visage. It had the desired effect as Tsukiumi quickly backed down for the time being and hid behind Minato. Even Musubi did much the same as Tsukiumi and Kuu started clinging to me a bit. Minato himself tried speaking up again in a clear attempt to explain what was going on, "Ashe, Miya there i-is an explanation for this, I-I just can't," he started.

Honestly, I'm surprised that Minato hasn't noticed that I already know about Sekirei, I haven't been hiding the fact really. I have three around the house that are connected to me after all and I've been taking what the other tenants do in stride which make it clear that they aren't normal. To me, it doesn't matter to keep Sekirei and their existence is supposed to be a secret. I mean, I'm a non-human, something that humans don't acknowledge and say are fictional or outright deny exist at all. So again, what's the point on keeping the fact that aliens do exist a secret? Minaka is merely finding enjoyment in intimidating and scaring those that are caught up in his game, that's my opinion.

So, I exhaled, "Say that she's another Sekirei that you have winged Minato, which brings your total up to three if I'm not mistaken," I finished for him. Minato gaped at me wide-eyed while I sighed, "Yes, Miya and I know about Sekirei and the 'Sekirei plan'. Truthfully, I'm kind of shocked you haven't seemed to notice that we have been taking all of it in stride with all the things the Sekirei here have been doing. The majority of it hasn't been exactly subtle from any of them," I said.

"But, how," began Minato.

I held up a hand, "I had a good and cherished friend that worked for MBI before he died. He told me a great many things about Sekirei and what other things were involved with them," I answered smiling slightly at the memories that involved Takehito that came to mind. Then I turned to Tsukiumi as there was a need to correct a misunderstanding, "And for your information Tsukiumi, Kusano would be seen as belonging to me as a Sekirei since I winged her, not Minato as you assume."

After finishing my correction, I spun around on the spot and walked towards the kitchen with Miya and Kuu following me. Akitsu joined us there and the four of us began making dinner for everyone. The meal was a tad different than it normally was along with it being somewhat shorter in time the meal took to consume. Kagari and Uzume were absent from the start, I don't know where they were, nor was I worried, the meals get cooked whether tenants come and eat is their decision. The biggest difference than normal, this time with the meal there was ongoing entertainment while we ate!

Oh, from what Kuu had told me, Tsukiumi easily gets jealous which had become apparent quickly. I believe some call that type of person a 'tsundere' these days. I used to call such unhappy fools for they couldn't face their true feelings most of the time in public, they had been amusing to watch struggle in their issues with their feelings and admitting them. When you pit that kind of person against the airhead Musubi with her boundless optimism, it's just plain funny! In the contest over Minato, I'm leaning towards Musubi in my expectation of who would win.

Then for this meal, Matsu actually showed up, but it wasn't because she was forced to no, it was to have fun at others expense as is what she likes doing. Tsukiumi, upon seeing Matsu and then Minato saying that she was his Sekirei as well, Matsu chose to rock the boat hard. "Yep, I sure am Minato's Sekirei. Nice to meet you, fellow wife," she said evenly goading Tsukiumi.

Tsukiumi took umbrage to that line, "He has but one wife, and that is me," she snapped back.

I'm amazed that they have forgotten that none of them are technically married and this contest is just showing how petty they are letting themselves be. I did give Matsu a stern glare or three as dinner continued to remind her that she was to keep her thoughts and words to herself, Miya sent two of those as well. Still, the contest was getting funnier the longer that it went on, the show kept getting more amusing, for then Uzume appeared, "Huh," she grunted, then looked at Tsukiumi on Minato's left. "Oh, a third, wow you're a machine Minato," she commented.

"Yeah, I guess that's one way of putting it," Minato replied.

Things had gotten to the point that I couldn't hold back the laughter any longer, the scene right here, right now was too much! I burst out laughing softly at first but quickly grew in volume. However, as others don't see me laugh boisterously, most if not all attention shifted to me. One of my arms hit the table to provide me support while the other held my side as I felt a stitch as I laughed hard and tears were even beginning to come from the corners of my eyes. It had been so long since the last time I had laughed like this, I'd all but forgotten what it felt like. This really bought to my attention how the last four centuries had really been a time of living in agony for me… my, how much things have changed looking back now.

Anyways, I don't doubt that everyone in the room would be looking at me like I'd lost it, and it's completely understandable. I'm not one that shows a great deal of emotion around most other than enough to comfort others. But, I haven't seen something this hilarious in a while, hundreds of years in fact! The sound of Miya's laughter adding to mine only spurred me on to keep going. I felt Miya lean on my shoulder as she held herself as our laughter continued. It took time to calm down and stop laughing for both Miya and me. Yet, left us both breathing hard after the laughing spell that had occurred. I brought my head back up and looked around the table, seeing that, as I had thought, everyone in the room was gaping at Miya and me. I waved a hand at them all, "I am sorry about that. I couldn't help myself as watching this situation was just too funny to contain the laughter," I explained.

Musubi suddenly smiled and threw up her arms, "Wow, I didn't know you could laugh like that Ashe," exclaimed Musubi in her normal cheerful tones.

Okay, that's fair, I don't laugh like I just did often, it hasn't happened for centuries sadly enough and others had tried to get me to do so. "You're not the only one that thought that Musubi," muttered Uzume.

That's somewhat harsh thinking that I'm not a person like everyone else around me, "It's so weird," uttered Matsu.

An eyebrow rose as I scanned around the room, my gaze stayed on Matsu for her 'weird' comment. That is because she isn't one to be talking about weird for she's weirder than I am in several ways. After taking in the expressions that everyone had, I snuffed, "I am a person you know, I feel the same things everyone else does. Why any would think otherwise, I haven't the faintest idea. I just can control and manage my emotions better than the young these days, who make everything seem like it's more than it is and much more dramatic, that's all," I remarked.

Why any would think non-humans feel emotions differently than humans do, it has never made sense to me, not that they know I'm not human. People whether human or non-human are still living beings and sentient ones, so they having feelings and are affected by them is part of what life is. The notable difference with me is I've lived longer and have had more time to learn how to keep control of my emotions in most situations along with the wisdom that I have acquired. …Now I'm left to wonder what is to come and how much more chaos would come with the collection of tenants as I've wondered off and on since they started coming.

"Besides, the matter of argument is of no consequence for I am Minato's only real wife," Tsukiumi stated with finality.

Kuu went over to Musubi and started encouraging her to disagree with Tsukiumi, which was kind of cute. However, Musubi, the airhead that she is, didn't help herself, "I'm his wife too you know!"

Tsukiumi glared at Musubi, "Dost thou know what real wife means," she challenged.

Miya and I looked to Musubi both of us curious as to what the answer would be mostly due to the girl's airheadedness. "Of course I do… well, maybe I don't," Musubi returned.

I had to give Musubi credit for being honest, even if it doesn't help her sometimes. Minato will really have his hands full with the three Sekirei he's got, and who knows if more will come. I'm inclined to think there will be more, just because Minato has a kind of attraction that Sekirei seems unable to resist.

A/n

I'll leave off there, yet another step forward in the story. Minato has three sekirei and so does Ashe. Reviews are welcome, thanks for reading and peace out all!