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.

17. Night of Blood

A/n

So, here it the first chapter that continues the story I've written for this story in a while and I'm sorry that it has been so long. However, I assure you it is worth the wait for the additions to the story thus far and what comes in this chapter. I won't spoil any more for this chapter, so enjoy.

Chapter 17: Night of Blood

-Minato's pov-

When Haruka had told me about the situation that he and his Sekirei Kuno faced, I did feel sorry for him as I could understand their position. The whole Sekirei Plan was crazy to me, all the fighting and the competition involved was stressful. So, I could see his wish to get out of the plan by leaving the city and feel for him. However, MBI had set up checkpoints at pretty much every way out of the city that made leaving for Sekirei was much more difficult. Yet, I have noticed that the checkpoint north of the shrine is a bit laxer than others, or at least there was less MBI personnel around it. Why that is I can't say but it seems that way for the northern sector of Shinto Tato when I take the time to think about it.

The Spring Festival had finished and had been cleaned up as it had ended a few days ago, which made the shrine much less busy around it these days. For helping Haruka leave, only Musubi came with me as Tsukiumi had refused to take part in this calling Haruka a coward though I disagree. Matsu said she would help as she could and that was it, still don't know how to take what she says. Kazehana said she would keep an eye from the distance and help as needed which like Matsu I couldn't say what to take away from her.

The issue that I saw came from information that Yume gave me that there would likely be at least one member of MBI's discipline squad or more that would chase us. The longer we could avoid encountering any of them, the better chances we had to get Haruka out of Shinto Taito becomes. So, it was for that reason that Haruka agreed with me that the checkpoint north of the Inari Shrine would be the best choice to try and get him out with.

That in mind, we headed out an evening a few days after Haruka came to Izumo Inn going toward the shrine. We had gotten to the area that the shrine takes up and was on the main road that led to the center part of the shrine without meeting anyone, yet there hung a heavy tension in the air. That's all I took in when Matsu contacted me to warn about enemies approaching us from behind and she would try contacting Kazehana.

It wasn't more than a few minutes after Matsu's warning that two individuals came up behind us and forced Haruka and me to stop. Both of them were in what Yume had worn at first, which was made up of black clothing with grey Haoris over their shoulders. One of them was shorter and she had pink hair in the same style that Uzume has most days. She also wore red fingerless-gloves on her hands and there was a red bow around her waist. The other had grey hair and looked to be wrapped in bandages around most of her body and she just had a mean look on her face. Her weapons consisted of two metal gauntlets with sharp claws, at least they looked sharp from where I stood.

The pink-haired one stepped forward, "And where do you think you lot are going," she posed menacingly.

Musubi got in front of me as Kuno put herself in front of Haruka, both of them protecting us from the two in front of us now. We had been getting close to where MBI's checkpoint was, it wasn't too far from the shrine and it made this frustrating. The pink-haired Sekirei shot forward and Musubi intercepted her while the other went towards Haruka. I moved without thinking and I managed to push Haruka out of the way before I felt a burning sensation on my back. The gashes weren't unbearable, but it didn't feel nice at all to have sharp claws cut you. "Minato," exclaimed Haruka, "why did you just do that?"

I got myself to a sitting position, "Don't worry about this, it is not as bad as it looks," I said gritting my teeth a bit.

The grey-haired Sekirei rushed forward at us again, but a column of ice came up from the ground stopped her progress before it formed a wall. "Big brother," called a voice and when I looked in the direction of its source and saw Kuu and Akitsu coming up to where we were.

Surprise filled me as I hadn't expected any of Ashe's Sekirei to show up at all. He had expressed that he nor those with him would participate in the Sekirei Plan. Although, he doesn't usually say no to his Sekirei if they ask to do something, so this might be by Kuu and Akitsu's choice. I mean, I'm not saying no to their help as I would be in much more trouble if they hadn't stepped in. And yet, Kazehana has yet to appear when she was supposed to when we needed help but there had been no sign of her.

Haruka was in a state of shock and it makes sense in a way to me. In general, Sekirei have what I would say are crazy capabilities that humans don't from what I've seen. However, Ashe's Sekirei are on a different level of crazy than any other is and that's saying something. Why that is the case, my only guess is that it has something to do with Ashe not being human. And that fact had thrown me for a serious loop and I still don't know what to think about it. Granted, to understand that the stories that grandma would tell Yukari and I are actually based on truth is really neat. Still, there so many questions that are unanswered that leave me wondering what was true and is not.

There came a pounding a moment after Akitsu and Kuu reached where Haruka and I were from the other side of the ice. Shortly after that, there appeared a hole that had been made by the grey-haired Sekirei and she kept pounding away at the ice after making the hole. Before the claw wielder got through the ice, Musubi was forced back by the other Sekirei. Then the next thing I knew there was a crash and our group were facing two angry looking Sekirei who appeared more than willing to kill us before this ended. The two rushed forwards at us, but then they seemed to hit something invisible and then they flew back a short distance. "You are out rather late, are you not Minato," questioned a voice I knew rather well by this point.

I turned around and saw that Miss Asia, the head priestess for the shrine was walking up to where we were. Now she isn't scary normally, one of the nicest women I've met, definitely different than mom and Yukari. But there is something about Priestess Asia that makes me nervous, I just can't say what it is exactly. I did stiffen a bit at seeing her, "Priestess Asia," I uttered, "we were just passing through ma'am."

Priestess Asia put a hand to her chin, "You don't say," she said before twisting to glance at the two Sekirei that had been attacking us. "I would then assume that these two have been harassing you?" I nodded in answer, and she gave a hum of acknowledgment, "I see." She paused, "Minato, do keep going to your destination," she said facing the two Sekirei, "I will shoo these two along their way."

I gawked at the woman that was essentially my employer as I'm not sure if she knew what she was getting into. She was saying pretty much that she would take on Sekirei, and two at that by herself and that is crazy. So I couldn't help myself but ask if she understood what she was saying, "Are you sure ma'am," I asked.

Priestess Asia nodded, and at seeing her eyes I noticed that they were slits which isn't normal as far as I know. Could that mean that Priestess Asia isn't human like Ashe? "I will be fine," she answered as Haruka helped me up and we started forward. We hadn't gotten far when she spoke again, "I expect you here tomorrow afternoon to work on the cleaning Minato, remember that."

Honestly, I'm worried about Priestess Asia as she is the best boss I've had for a job and I don't want that to change. But if Ashe is anything to judge by, then those that aren't human can do things the rest of us can only imagine and then some. So, our group continued toward MBI's checkpoint so that we could get Haruka and Kuno out of Shinto Tato.

-Ashe's pov-

Minato and that other pair had headed out less than an hour ago and Musubi had gone with him yet Tsukiumi had refused to accompany them. Tsukiumi had been claiming something about the Sekirei and ashikabi attempting to leave Minaka's game were cowards. I could've told her that the man's game was a farce and a collection of lies that had been fed to Sekirei and others. However, even were I to say that, the conditioning they receive may have them not believe what truths I could tell them as truth. I don't know if Minato could get the two to the city limits without being stopped with what MBI has been doing. Before now they had been staying away from the northern sector of Tokyo, but MBI had been getting bolder and more aggressive as of late. Nonetheless, going through the shrine grounds would definitely give the best chance for Minato and Leia would help them in what ways she could.

There was also the potential issue of MBI doing other activities here in the north tonight with pushing for control as they have. That was why I had others out and about tonight as MBI had been busy as of late and I felt it wouldn't be long before they come here to the north in force. MBI hadn't been liking that they had little control if any in the north, so I expect that at some point them to come and try to take the north by force. It was really more when Minaka acts stupidly and orders others to come and try and force his authority. It wouldn't go nicely, and Minaka would have the consequences come back to him, I would make sure of that personally if need be.

The tension in the air this night was harsh enough that I went out myself and my Sekirei also came with me leaving the house. Kuu and Akitsu went towards the shrine going after Minato, Kuu in the lead interestingly enough. Miya, Yume, and Yashima stayed with me as I was going south and though I'm worried about my other two Sekirei, I also know they would look out for each other. Still, I couldn't dismiss the feeling that hung tonight, it worried me and so, as the unofficial protector of the north, I'm out to do what I see needed.

And I wasn't the only one on edge this evening, those with me were as well and likely for similar reasons I have. Miya had summoned her sword not too long after we left the house and her grip was tight on the sheath. Yume already had her gloves on and had a serious expression on her face which didn't leave her. Yashima had her hammer with her though it was smaller than it had been before due to a simple spell I had taught her. However, she still had easy access to the hammer to get it out at a moment's notice and could return it to its original size. That had shown me that some Sekirei could use magic, meaning the race had the potential to use magic, but I couldn't say much more than that.

It was as we were turning a corner that bordered where the northern and eastern parts of Tokyo meet that things changed. In our view was a moderate sized group, most of which were in uniforms that said they were from MBI. Also, with them was none other than Karasuba who was with an individual that had been described to me a few times. He was a normal-sized young-looking man and had the appearance of a gentleman. His hair was brown hair as were his eyes, his appearance wouldn't make most think anything unusual about him. Even his clothes which were an elaborate suit with a white shirt underneath and a black tie wouldn't say much about him.

But I saw a completely different picture than the world saw, and the calm air was one that is an act that would break at some point. His aura said so much along with another particular idea that was unseen to all but me in the immediate area. The man's aura was rife with hate for the world around him mixed with a desire for vengeance and destruction. I've seen the mixture like this on a few individuals and each of them had died in the pursuit of the destruction of the world around themselves. The reason for the man to wish such would lead me to the other part of this that only I could see.

Behind the man's shoulder, a short distance was a woman, or rather the spirit of one floating. From the sad expression on her face, she not only knew the man but also was saddened by what the young man was doing to himself and others. The woman looked at me with a looked that begged me to help the man and stop him from going down the path he was on. I've seen the kind of expression from some and it is hard to see and I assumed that the young man was either unable to hear her or wasn't open to listening to her pleas for him. My guess is the woman was likely his partner or lover, and perhaps it was her death that drove him to where he is going.

Now I would try and help him, but I can only do so much, I won't control or take another's free will even to save them from their end. And with one that wishes for destruction for the world around them, the first thing they have to do is admit that their past was affecting them. Most of them aren't willing to admit such reasoning that they are not letting it get the better of them when it was. I understand the past hurting, more than any other as I've been dealing with it for far longer than any. If they can't admit what their past has and is doing, it will be their undoing and consume them utterly.

The young man seemed to notice us approaching and he focused on Yume specifically, "Yume," he greeted. "How wonderful to see you again, we have been looking for you lately."

Yume gazed back at this young man and it wasn't in a nice way, nor did I like the way the man was talking to Yume. "Then you have been wasting your time Natsuo," she replied as she stuck close to me. So then, Natsuo is the name of this individual, "I have found the place where I belong," Yume continued.

I've heard about this Natsuo from a few that I've talked to, both that work for me and those that are around this young man if he is this Natsuo which I assume he is with what Yume said. He was a clerk within MBI officially, but from what I have been told and understand, he is, in essence, Hiroto Minaka's lap dog. And when I say lap dog, it is not meant as a good or complementary reference, it means that this Natsuo is at the beckon and call of Minaka to fulfill his whims sickening or not. What tasks the position entails, honestly, I no longer wish to know any details of what he does anymore. Those loyal to Minaka for whatever reason they are, have issues I would think, but that is my personal opinion. My real question would be does this Natsuo tend to do the non-dirty jobs or the dirty jobs for the delusional fool for there is a difference.

Natsuo smiled at Yume's answer, yet his aura told me it had no feeling that matched the expression portrayed. "Is that so Yume," Natsuo posed, "then it is time for your vacation to end. The work the Discipline Squad has been getting as of late has increased and still needs to be done."

The implications that this young man was making about Yume and not about her were not appreciated nor acceptable at all. Natsuo was saying that Yume was with MBI and she is not as she chose to leave them, that decision will not be overturned by any other than Yume herself by her own freewill. And similar to Miya, I have started to feel what Yume felt as I would now with my other Sekirei. While Yume didn't show it, I could feel that she was irked about what Natsuo had said to her any more than I like them. "Apparently, you misunderstand Natsuo, I do not work for MBI nor the Discipline Squad any longer, they are not where I belong. You can consider this an official resignation if you want and deliver it to the professor if you see the need to," she replied.

The fake expression didn't change on Minaka's dog's face, and it irked me an amount. Natsuo reminded me of some that I had encountered in the past, those that put up an act, but are as dolls or puppets of others. Such individuals wasted their lives for so little as they don't live for themselves but to serve another in some form. The demon had turned a few people into that and being reminded of what fruits the demon Oda produced was infuriating and yet saddening as well. "You assume that you have that option to refuse Yume," Natsuo said. "President Minaka has said you are to come back, there is no discussion about it, you will come back whether you want to do so or not."

The single line fed the feeling of anger within me and motivated me to make Minaka answer for what he does to others, regardless whether he thinks he should or not. That he shows how he views Sekirei as mere possessions to do with what he sees fit by taking them from those that care about them is proof that he's in error. And I'm sick and tired of the fool Hiroto Minaka doing whatever he pleases, and others pay the price for his idiocy! Many lives have been ruined and ripped apart by the delusions of the man, and more had been lost forever because of him. I would not make the same mistake of waiting to interfere as I had done with the demon, there was still time in this.

There were around I would estimate close to a hundred of MBI's security force with this young man Natsuo. That is not enough to stop me for I can face armies and have before now and cut them down. And honestly, hiding the fact that I can use magic is of no consequence as few if any would survive a battle with me. Even if it had been some time since I had killed more than just individuals, I was leaning towards doing that in this situation. It wouldn't prove the folly of Minaka's thinking, but it would be the start of reining him in and dealing with him.

As I fumed, Anya contacted me and informed me that groups from MBI were scattered around the northern area looking to be waiting for something, likely orders. I made it clear to Anya and those who were out tonight that should MBI personnel make trouble, they were to be stopped immediately by whatever means were necessary. My helpers acknowledged they understood my expectations and what their duties were to be. It would be up to those that were giving the orders to determine if there would be deaths tonight due to foolishness. After I had communicated with those that would help in the protection of those here in the north, I focused forward on Natsuo. My voice will be heard in this, "Excuse me, young man," I started, "but I believe Yume told you that she would not be going with you, accept that and move on."

Natsuo turned his gaze on to me, "I'm sorry, but this matter does not concern you, so kindly stay out of this sir," he stated to me in a near flat tone.

If Natsuo thinks I would simply do what I'm told, he is mistaken, so I folded my arms, "Your assumption of me heeding such a foolish suggestion is incorrect. I am not one that will stand by when others exercise cruel and unfounded dominion as those you follow have been trying to do. Yume is not an object or possession and definitely not a slave of Hiroto Minaka to use as and when he sees fit," I stated clearly. "Yume will only go to MBI if she chooses to by her own free will and she has stated she does not desire to do such. So, as I believe you stated, there is no discussion about this subject. That said, take these individuals with you and be on your way from here for I can assure you, none from MBI are welcome here in the north and that has been made clear."

The next moment, Karasuba charged forward at me, but Miya rushed in front of me blocking Karasuba from striking. Miya shoved back Karasuba before bringing her sword to the ready, while Karasuba leaped back and then kissed Natsuo activating her norito and gained a maniacal expression. Karasuba and Miya moved off to an open area nearby and started fighting one another. I'm more confident that Miya will be able to hold her own in this instance as there were a few differences between the time MBI came and took her. The first is Miya hadn't been worn down by two other Sekirei that had used their norito. Second, she would not be given the drug she had the last time for I would kill any that try that stunt without hesitation. The third and most important, Miya wasn't fighting this force off alone, I was here along with Yume and Yashima.

As MBI's security personnel moved forward enforcing Natsuo to which I gaze at the young man, "You would do well to think rather carefully about this action young man," I suggested, "it will have consequences that you will not choose and they will not be nice I assure you."

I don't really expect the lapdog of Minaka to listen to sage advice or common sense. A dog, unfortunately, will get qualities from their master and that can include the bad ones. Said dog's reply was to give the fake smile, "One can say the same to you, sir, you are interfering in things that are not your business," he said.

I didn't back down, "Perhaps it wasn't my business previously," I stated, "However, your master's recent actions have made what he does my business. Hiroto Minaka has crossed lines clearly still believing that nothing will happen to him as a result and he is wrong in such a mentality. His activities before now have been foolish, but this is a new low for him to send his attack dogs to threaten people just because they have said they will not heed him." I felt fangs forming in my mouth at the thoughts that Minaka cared nothing about those that would get hurt in this attempted takeover on either side. "And that action will not be permitted," I glared at Natsuo, "And the blame for those that are lost will come to be on your master's head regardless of the lies or excuses he comes up to deny responsibility."

I took a moment to reign in the anger that had flared up and continued, "So I say again, choose your actions carefully. Call back those that are here on the foolish orders of Minaka to use force to gain control of the north, or else you will face consequences you will feel in the days that follow tonight and beyond them, that I promise you."

Natsuo kept his fake smile and the woman floating behind him gained an even more pained expression. "Oh no, I think it is you that does not understand," he said to me. "The northern sector of Shinto Tato will fall into proper line and place as president Minaka instructed tonight, its resistance has been tolerated long enough. It will be you that will face consequences for standing in the way of this, your attempted threats and intimidation are wasted and will be of no use."

I was not amused at being waved off, nor knowing that a number of lives would be ended soon all because a delusional man says for them to do this. Yet, I had said that should they continue the consequences would follow and I would be sure to make them. And so, I made contact with Anya and told her that things were very likely about to go badly. It wasn't moments later that the quiet of the night was broken by the screams of men. That told me that the other groups of MBI personnel had tried to go forward in the foolish decision of attempting to forcefully take control of the northern area of Tokyo. And now, they are being 'encouraged' to stop and leave, likely by some dying for that. The lives that would be lost would be on Hiroto Minaka's head, I'll personally make sure of that so that there is no doubt in anyone's mind.

MBI security forces in the immediate area surged forward, but then Yume and Yashima shot past me at them. Yume punched the ground creating a flash that stopped those moving forward. Yashima followed that up by using her hammer which was full size slamming into the ground sending out a shockwave that forced back many of MBI's personnel. The two quickly kept the attention of them while I kept mine on Natsuo, Minaka's lapdog. After all, MBI personnel here have far more to worry about now that they will have to fight for their lives.

-Yume's pov-

I felt this night would be a long one with both since Minato was going to help Haruka and his Sekirei try and escape and the tension in the air. Minato and Haruka had headed out less than an hour ago, Musubi had gone with him yet Tsukiumi had not. She had been claiming something about the Sekirei and ashikabi attempting to leave Minaka's game were cowards and I think such a mentality came from her adjuster. Getting to know Ashe had only solidified the fact of the Sekirei Plan being a horrible mistake and a tragedy regardless of what others claimed.

I doubted Minato would get to the city limits without being stopped with how MBI has set itself up. Their influence is weaker in the northern part of Shinto Tato and I've been finding out that Ashe and others like him were responsible for that. And though Ashe was worried, it wasn't as much as I myself was, and I could feel the emotion from him. Being able to sense some of Ashe's feelings had been an interesting idea that had been developing for me. Plus, it wasn't just me that was learning about this, both Kuu and Akitsu had been saying things to say they were having similar experiences.

Still, I believe it won't be long before MBI comes to the north, the professor would order security forces to try and take control at some point. It hadn't been liked that MBI had little control if any in the north, I remember the talk about that before meeting Ashe. So, for them to come and try to take control by force wasn't out of the question. And none here in the northern part of Shinto Tato deserved to be hurt or harassed by MBI security forces.

With how things were, all of us were out tonight, Kuu and Akitsu had gone after Minato to make sure he would be alright. While Miya, Yashima and I stayed with Ashe and we headed towards the border of the northern area of the city. I believe all of us were on edge to some degree, I know I certainly was. Miya had her sword with her though she hadn't been carrying it when we left the house. Yashima had her hammer with her, yet it was smaller than it had been before which I think Ashe had taught her how to do. He had been giving us simple lessons on how to use what he called magic and those had been fascinating. As for me, I had my gloves on ready to fight and defend as needed as members of the current discipline squad would be around tonight.

The tensions rose when our group turned a corner where the northern and eastern sectors of Shinto Tato meet. In front of us was a moderate sized group that was made up of MBI security forces along with Karasuba and Natsuo. Now, I was not happy to see Karasuba or Natsuo, they were likely here to cause trouble for many. Natsuo quickly noticed me and gained that easy-going looking smile I had come to detest as it was a mask, "Yume," he greeted. "How wonderful to see you again, we have been looking for you lately."

That they had been looking for me wasn't comforting or pleasant at all, the opposite in fact if anything. I had found where I belonged, and I was the happiest I have ever been with Ashe which was proof to me of how it was supposed to be for Sekirei. I would not give up what I had gained just because another says to, not even if it is Professor Minaka telling me. So, I gazed back at Natsuo, "Then you have been wasting your time Natsuo," I replied. I moved closer to Ashe showing that I was with him, "I have found the place where I belong."

My place was with Ashe and I would stay where I was or fight and die doing my utmost to do so. Natsuo continued to smile at my answer, "Is that so Yume," he posed, "then it is time for your vacation to end. The work the Discipline Squad has been getting as of late has increased and still needs to be done."

I would like to say that Natsuo misunderstands what I was telling him, but I know better than to assume that. What Natsuo was actually saying was that me saying I found where I belong didn't matter, and to leave it all and return to MBI immediately. I will not do as he is saying no matter how he words it, and it irritated me to be brushed off like this. "Apparently, you misunderstand Natsuo, I do not work for MBI nor the Discipline Squad any longer, they are not where I belong. You can consider this an official resignation if you want and deliver it to the professor if you see the need to," I returned.

Natsuo's expression didn't change, "You assume that you have that option to refuse Yume," Natsuo said. "President Minaka has said you are to come back, there is no discussion about it, you will come back whether you want to do so or not."

So, as I suspected, it was the professor that ordered others to bring me back, I still will not go though. Anger flared up from Ashe at what Natsuo had said, but when my gaze flicked over to him, there was no evidence on his face that reflected the emotion. No, Ashe was focused on Natsuo, "Excuse me, young man," he started, "but I believe Yume told you that she would not be going with you, accept that and move on."

The desire to hug and kiss Ashe swelled within me at hearing him tell Natsuo to leave me alone, but I restrained myself. I would do such later to show him thanks for him being the way he is and show that I care about him so much. I doubt that I was the only one that wanted to do such actions with Ashe between those connected to him. With how he is it is hard not to wish to show affection towards him and it just felt so natural.

However, Natsuo turned his gaze on to Ashe, "I'm sorry, but this matter does not concern you, so kindly stay out of this sir," he stated in a near flat tone.

The irritation I felt with Natsuo at his treatment and mannerisms directed at Ashe was hard to ignore. Yet I readied myself to fend off Karasuba as I expect her to try attacking Ashe since she seemed to have some kind of interest in him. I'm more surprised that she hasn't done that already, her current smile said clearly she was out for blood tonight.

Ashe folded his arms, "Your assumption of me heeding such a foolish suggestion is incorrect. I am not one that will stand by when others exercise cruel and unfounded dominion as those you follow have been trying to do. Yume is not an object or possession and definitely not a slave of Hiroto Minaka to use as and when he sees fit," he stated clearly. "Yume will only go to MBI if she chooses to by her own free will and she has stated she does not desire to do such. So, as I believe you stated, there is no discussion about this subject. That said, take these individuals with you and be on your way from here for I can assure you, none from MBI are welcome here in the north and that has been made clear."

Ashe is definitely getting attention from me later, if not for Karasuba threatening Ashe, then I would hug him right now even if in front of those here. However, the next moment, Karasuba charged forward at Ashe, and I started to move forward to put myself between Karasuba and Ashe but Miya beat me to the spot. Miya shoved back Karasuba before bringing her sword to the ready, while Karasuba leaped back and then kissed Natsuo activating her norito. Karasuba and Miya moved off to an open area nearby and started fighting one another.

Just after that MBI's security personnel moved forward enforcing Natsuo while Ashe kept gazing at Natsuo, "You would do well to think rather carefully about this action young man," Ashe suggested, "it will have consequences that you will not choose and they will not be nice I assure you."

Natuso merely kept his smile, "One can say the same to you, sir, you are interfering in things that are not your business," he said.

I wanted to slap Natsuo for threatening Ashe, however, my ashikabi spoke before I could do so, "Perhaps it wasn't my business previously," he stated, "However, your master's recent actions have made what he does my business. Hiroto Minaka has crossed lines clearly still believing that nothing will happen to him as a result and he is wrong in such a mentality. His activities before now have been foolish, but this is a new low for him to send his attack dogs to threaten people just because they have said they will not heed him." Ashe's tone changed to being somewhat cold, "And that action will not be permitted," I glared at Natsuo, "And the blame for those that are lost will come to be on your master's head regardless of the lies or excuses he comes up to deny responsibility."

Ashe took a moment to reign in the anger that had flared up in him and continued, "So I say again, choose your actions carefully. Call back those that are here on the foolish orders of Minaka to use force to gain control of the north, or else you will face consequences you will feel in the days that follow tonight and beyond them, that I promise you."

Natsuo kept his fake smile saying he wasn't listening to what was said to him, "Oh no, I think it is you that does not understand," he said. "The northern sector of Shinto Tato will fall into proper line and place as president Minaka instructed tonight, its resistance has been tolerated long enough." My fists tightened at what Natsuo said as the people here in the north merely wish for peace and to be left alone. And though I know that there are things MBI does that aren't nice, this is a new low that I know of. Natsuo kept going, "It will be you that will face consequences for standing in the way of this, your attempted threats and intimidation are wasted and will be of no use."

MBI security forces in the immediate area surged forward raising their weapons, and that was all the signal I needed to move forward to meet them. Yashima followed me taking out her hammer which reverted to its normal size, yet her hammer's appearance had changed a bit from what it had been. The head had been square but now it was rounded and was silver instead of black, yet the size was about the same.

My first move was to gather energy around my right fist and then punch the ground creating a flash that temporarily blinded the security forces. Yashima followed that up by using her hammer slamming into the ground sending out a shockwave that forced back many of MBI's personnel. We had proven that we could work well as a team and we would stop these men from MBI doing what they are here to do. Meanwhile, Ashe and Natsuo were focused on one another, ignoring the rest of us for the moment. Yashima and I would keep MBI's forces busy while Ashe is doing whatever he is, that I promise.

Even as the guns began firing, I was using my abilities to manipulate light to put up a shield to block the bullets. Yashima did the same task with her capability to change the magnitude of gravity, using it to have the bullet's arc shift downward when they got close to her. The two of us worked our way closer to the MBI forces and they became more frightened the nearer we came.

-Leia's pov-

Tonight will not be a pleasant night, more like some past ones during the times of war and I do not look forward to witnessing what would come about. The shrine was at this time filled with most of the children that lived in the northern part of the city. Ashe had the wisdom to send out a message to most of the families that there would likely be dangerous events this night. That, in turn, had parents at Ashe's suggestion, bring their children to the shrine for their safety. Many of the children were scared and I couldn't blame them, this situation is unknown to them and those of us at the shrine had been comforting them the best we could. Unfortunately, this wasn't a new circumstance, there have been times before now where the shrine has been used as a safe haven for a number of people.

We at the shrine were looking after and were protecting the young ones from what would happen tonight. I had even put a barrier around the shine to prevent intruders from invading and attack the area. Yet, it was a commotion from the main street that leads to the shrine that got me curious about what was going on. I had one to the shrine maidens take charge while I went out to see what the source of the noise was. It was at the stairs that led down to the forward area of the shrine that the scene I saw when I arrived was not one that I liked seeing. There was a fight going on between two of those that Lord Hitoyoshi called Sekirei and they were using their fists on one another. A second Sekirei was eyeing a group that as I looked at them included Minato Sahashi in it.

Minato had been a very hard worker ever since he started working at the shrine weeks ago even I had to admit that. I'd had my reservations about the young man at first as he was a human that seemed oblivious of the non-human world. But Ashe had asked me to give him a chance and as it always seems to be, he had been right in seeing the good in Minato. The boy had turned out to be a rare type of human that embraced that which was different and not judge others right away. There are and have been so few of those like that and so they are precious individuals. He reminded me somewhat of Lady Itsumi, he had a number of the same kind of qualities she did.

With the situation as it currently was, Minato was in clear danger of getting seriously injured or possibly killed and that was unacceptable. Then one of these Sekirei rushed forward at the humans, Minato shoved the other human out of the way but took a hit in exchange. I started down the steps towards Minato who had gotten into a sitting position, "Don't worry about this, it is not as bad as it looks," Minato was saying.

The claw wielder zoomed forward again, and I was about to cast magic to create a shield to stop this ridiculous farce but was beaten to the task. A column of ice shot up from the ground and then formed a wall between Minato and his attacker. "Big brother," called the voice of a child.

Looking in the direction it had come from I spotted two of Ashe's Sekirei coming up to where Minato was. However, a boom that came shortly after the ice wall formed said that the trouble maker was still trying to get to their goal. Things kept getting worse as the two put out killing intent, and I knew it was time for me to step in and stop this. I projected a barrier in front of Minato's group and the two slammed into the magic and flew backward. With the dangerous situation on hold for the moment, I strode forward in the group's direction, "You are out rather late, are you not Minato," I questioned in greeting.

Minato turned and stiffened a bit at seeing me, "Priestess Asia," he uttered, "we were just passing through ma'am."

Dear dear, I have been attempting to break him of the habit of being so formal with me and it is my understanding that Ashe has been doing the same, neither of us has been having success. But then, as I recall, it took a number of years to get Takehito to be less formal, so maybe it will be similar to Minato. The two do share a number of traits surprisingly, which could be one of the reasons Ashe is fond of the young man. I put a hand to my chin to Minato's statement, "You don't say." I twisted to glance at the two Sekirei that had been causing the ruckus, "I would then assume that these two have been harassing you?"

Minato nodded in answer to me though I had witnessed the point myself. Honestly, I can comprehend why Ashe dislikes this Hiroto Minaka, the things I've heard about him are not nice. Some things have been whispered by families that have some working for MBI, others have had interaction with individuals from the organization and what they have said weren't nice. Some representatives from MBI have even come to the shrine saying they were interested in purchasing it. They had been turned away of course, but they had been downright rude in their manners, more so than I normally deal with during earlier times. Then you have stunts like this and the live that will likely be ended tonight due to the foolishness of Minaka which only paints a more horrible picture of him.

I gave a hum of acknowledgment, "I see." I paused, then decided that I would handle these two personally. For one, I would get to gauge the strength of Sekirei in general and two, I would get to get these two back for scaring the children. It is unlikely that the two would take away a lesson from this, but there was the possibility. "Minato, do keep going to your destination," I ordered facing the two Sekirei, "I will shoo these two along."

Minato gawked at me, "Are you sure ma'am," he asked.

I nodded, my emotions of dislike and irritation for these two that had scared the innocent children welling up in me. That caused the illusion I keep up to fool humans to flicker, yet I managed to keep most of my non-human features from showing. Although, I believe that some of my non-human features did show for a moment, my eyes I know did revert to their natural appearance. "I will be fine," I answered as the other young man helped Minato up and they started off. Yet there was one more thing I wanted to say, "I expect you here tomorrow afternoon Minato, remember that."

Minato and those with him headed through the shrine grounds while I returned my attention to the two Sekirei in front of me. All expression had been wiped from my face as I gazed at the two chaos bringers, "You two will pay a price for your actions tonight," I stated flatly.

I would have kept going, but the pink-haired Sekirei laughed a bit and spoke, "Oh we're so scared lady," she said in a sarcastic manner. Then she glared at me, "After we beat the crap out of you for interfering with our business bi-"

I was in no mood to tolerate a lack of manners, so I snapped my fingers and used a spell to cut off her tirade in the middle. I am stating what will happen, not threatening what they would experience and there is a difference. A threat is giving a opportunity to get out of something, stating facts is merely say how things will go. The pink-haired Sekirei grabbed her mouth that I had closed as I began walking forwards, still with a deadpanned look set on my face. "How unfortunate, it appears your master has failed to teach you proper manners, they should be ashamed for shirking such responsibilities," I remarked coldly. "Allow me to educate you two then, you are not to interrupt another speaking without viable reason and inserting your opinion is not considered viable."

The claw wielder went on-guard as I got closer, "Then, the one your master heeds is a delusionary fool believing that he can do whatever he wishes regardless of the results. The fool also seems to be convinced that he will not face consequences and can deny justice's demands." Laying out what kind of individual Hiroto Minaka was felt good as it always had saying how horrible a foolish person can be. But I didn't stop there, "That you would threaten those that have done nothing wrong other than decline to listen to said idiot who shouldn't be heeded shows that you are in the wrong," I iterated.

I let out my non-human features, my fox ears standing and nine golden tails waving out behind me. And from the lack of reaction, I assumed that they weren't able to see my non-human features. Perhaps that could infer that if their master doesn't believe, the Sekirei can't see the non-human world. I snapped my fingers again and released the spell that had been silencing the pink-haired Sekirei. The two were gazing at me a tad apprehensive, "Should you still wish to pursue those that have gone on," I stated, "You will have to get past me first."

I readied myself to do battle as the pink-haired one huffed, "You speak as if we can't get by you lady," she replied. "You need your eyes checked, there are two of us and one of you, and one of us is more than enough to take you down."

It would seem that Sekirei have more in common with humans than first thought, they can be overconfident and be prone to underestimation. Of course, not all Sekirei are like this, Lady Miya is a force to be reckoned with when in combat and I wouldn't doubt given time the rest of Lord Hitoyoshi's Sekirei will be as well. Nonetheless, these two are nowhere near that level, they are restricted by those they serve. And though I don't tease and prank others like I once did, that doesn't mean I've lost the skills I have in the art. "If you are as strong as you claim, then both of you can attack me at the same time," I returned. "For as I observed, you two are nothing but bullies looking for those weaker than yourself to satisfy your need to feel superior. And I'm not one that you will be able to bully successfully, but do feel free to try."

My remark/challenge had the desired effect and incensed and angered the two and, in the process blinded themselves from logical thinking. The pink-haired one especially lost her temper, "How dare you, a no-account lady accuse us of being bullies," she screeched. "We are members of MBI's Discipline Squad and were chosen because of our skills and talents!"

Oh ho, they set themselves up for retorts too, they are kind of amusing, but they had frightened the children and they would pay for that, I'll personally make sure of that. So, I rolled my eyes and hummed tiredly, "Oh really," I posed. "Are the skills and talents you mention talking another into boredom and preying on the weak?" There was no reply to my retort other than the two getting angrier, so I kept going. "And discipline squad you say? That name would imply that you are supposed to be overseeing the obedience to rules. Your actions instead show you are far more intent on beating any you can for your own enjoyment. That is not what upholders of rule and law do, their honor would not allow them to do such things, hence why you are bullies instead."

The two rushed forwards at me, their movements were so easy to read, akin to an open book being in front of me. I twisted out of the way of the pink-haired one swinging her fist and weaved away from the claws strike. The repeated the movements again and I was wondering if this was all they knew how to do. There quickly came a point I vanished from their sight and came to be behind them, "I would hope that the simple attacks you have been doing aren't all you can do," I said. The two whipped around to face me, "For such will profit you nothing as I can read the movements with ease."

They rushed me again, yet just before they got into range to attack me, two of my tails shot forward wrapped a leg of each Sekirei and then whipped them upward. They flipped through the air before bouncing on the ground and then landed a distance away. I stayed where I was gazing at the two, wondering now if it was worth the effort I would put into it. From what I had observed, these two were simple-minded and relied on strength and speed, which I could outdo both in.

The fight was about to continue, but the sound of screaming drew attention momentarily. I quickly knew what the source of the screams was and why they were happening. MBI had been foolish and had insisted to attempt to enforce their rule and authority upon those of us that live in the north part of the city. The humans that weren't aware of the non-human world were in an enchanted sleep for their protection. Those that were not the case for, most were ready to fight to defend their families and homes by whatever means necessary. That was along with the loyal followers of Lord Hitoyoshi who were strong like me. And now those from MBI were put into the fight of their lives due to them following the orders of a fool. It can only be hoped that they leave quickly so the death count does not climb high.

I returned my full attention back to the two Sekirei in front of me making the decision to use illusionary magic to end this fight quickly. I raised a hand to point at the two I had been fighting, "Like the breeze of Spring seasons gone by, as the blossoms that float on the wind, weave a dream of beauty, immerse those before me deep within," I chanted. With the spell cast, its effect engulfed the two Sekirei and instantly their eyes fogged over as the illusion took hold.

They quickly became lost in the illusion I had put them in and became completely unaware of the world around them. I moved forward and summoned bindings and tied them up and then took and hung them from the nearest street lamp. After doing that cleanup, I returned to the shrine to rejoin the watch of the children. With what was going on tonight, none of them should have to witness any of the horrible events.

-Anya's pov-

Lord Hitoyoshi had Saki, Ryu and I positioned in order to protect those here in the north from attacking invaders. He suspected that a number from MBI would come and do that soon enough and I would agree with what facts as they are. All the children here had been taken to the shrine to protect them while the adults and those in their late teens willing to fight had readied themselves for battle and to defend their homes and families. And it was before midnight that mechanized vehicles drove to open areas in the north and men came out of them. The men were all armed with weapons, and they were clearly here to make trouble as predicted by Ashe.

However, the inhabitance of the north weren't going to just let a mad man tell them what to do as they have made clear. These soldiers may have their guns, yet we have magic, and where they are paid to do what they do, we fight for what we hold dear. In battle, one's motivation can make a real difference, I have seen it more than enough times to know that as true. Granted, more than half here were Youkai, but even those that are not could wield magic and were more than willing to fight to protect their homes and families.

I contacted Ashe and informed him of the situation as it was developing as he had wanted me to keep him appraised of it. Ashe told me that should these men from MBI threaten the inhabitance in any way, they were to be stopped by whatever means necessary. If that should occur, then we were to drive them back for the northern part of the city would not fall under MBI's control. I was to pass on the order to both Saki and Ryu, which I did so and we acknowledged what was expected of us. After that, we were back to waiting for these men to make the next move which would determine what would happen next.

As the men started coming onto the house-lined streets, everything had gone silent and still. There were no lights from any of the houses, no signs of any activity whatsoever from any structure or alleys. The tension was climbing the farther MBI soldiers got and they were getting more uneasy as they went. Some of the men were muttering about something not being right with all the silence, but those that led them told them to focus. The group nearest me came to a halt and were glancing around, clearly put off by the lack of noise and light from any structure. I was preparing to move, my hand was already gripping my katana's hilt when Ashe contacted me again. His message was short and to the point, things were about to go bad and to intercede as per our best judgment.

If to prove my lord right, the leader of the group by me barked orders, "You are to search the houses, if any resist, then subdue them by force regardless whether adult or child."

The grip on my katana tightened a bit out of anger at hearing the order these intruders were to follow for it showed the lack of honor these soldiers had. They were less than men, they were akin to rabid starving mongrels that did what they were directed to do by the one that feeds them. That was enough to have me move, shooting at the group leader a moment later as soldiers began to kick in doors. MBI's soldiers were met with two different responses, some by elemental magic being shoved in their faces and others with claws or other non-human appendages striking them. The leader of the group was attempting to bring order back to the group of screaming soldiers when I got to him. I didn't hesitate but drew my katana and used it to cleaved off the man's head silencing him.

The sound of men screaming a distance away from where I was said that the same that was happening this group was occurring to others. We outnumbered the assaulters that had come and more had come out of their hiding places and were fighting back against MBI's soldiers. I was using my blades, switching between them and summoning flame to persuade these intruders to leave as fast as they could. It was reminiscent of the earlier days when villages would stand together and fight back against those who threatened them. It mattered not that most of those defending their homes had little to no formal training for combat, they used whatever they could come up with to push back the invaders. Ryu and I led those fighting on the ground against our foes while Saki had others on the rooftops striking from above.

The battle kept dragging on as the body count began climbing for the dead. We users of magic were making progress, MBI's side was falling back as none of their weapons or machines able to stop the push. Although, that didn't mean that we defenders took no losses since we were taking them slowly. However, all of us knew that should we not stand up for ourselves in this, then freedoms would be taken from us. That was not acceptable and certainly not to be taken by a delusional mad man that sees fighting and killing as entertainment. I just hope and pray that MBI's head Hiroto Minaka is made to take responsibility for the lives lost here.

Ashe's pov-

With Yume and Yashima keeping MBI personnel busy, that left me and Minaka's lapdog Natsuo. Miya was fighting it out with Karasuba, and I would be over to assist after taking care of this young man. I glared at Natsuo, "Am I to assume that neither you nor your master Hiroto Minaka see anything wrong with the deaths that are occurring nor intend to shoulder the responsibility for them lapdog," I inquired.

Natsuo hummed, "Lapdog, now there's a term I don't hear often," he mused, "as to the deaths occurring, MBI has nothing to do with them."

The blatant lies that some tell themselves are just plain wrong and sad, more so these days that in ones previous. I gave him a deadpanned expression, "Nothing to do with them," I replied, "that is as true as saying Sekirei are free to do whatever they wish regardless of MBI's says. It is a lie no matter how many times you say it or the different ways you iterate it. And the lie you just spouted is a generic one and one of the more horrible ones at that. As for me calling you a lapdog, that is what you have become with what you do. You serve Minaka and do everything he says without a single question mutt, you give dogs a bad representation," I iterated.

The smile changed ever so slightly for a moment, it showed strain but then came back, "You have quite the odd view sir of someone you have never met and so know nothing about," he replied firmly.

Well well, looks like this young man has issues unresolved, those can be problematic as others can use those against you. I folded my arms, "This may be the first we have met face to face, but I have talked to others that have interacted with you. Thus far, what has been said about you is accurate to the most part." I paused, "Then, you need not say anything for me to tell facts about yourself. And what I get from you just by observing is worrisome indeed, I've been trying to decide whether to pity you or chasten you and which would be better in the long-run."

The smile flickered again for a moment, "Quite the fanciful things you say," he replied.

He was denying the truths I was telling him though a number are like that and I encounter them from time to time. I sighed, "You think I don't know what I'm talking about, but you would be wrong. So many points about you show things and scream them at me," I returned. I would rather not do what I am considering, and that is to lay out everything that Natsuo was not saying to those around him. Such can be a good thing hard as that is to believe, it can help in moving forward from the past. But it can also be hard as many don't like admitting what happened to them. "If you want, I can lay out what I am referring to," I offered.

Natsuo scoffed, "You know little about me, there is nothing that you can say that is true," he shot back.

I took a deep breath as this would unlikely be nice by the end, "You hate the world around you even if you don't show it, you feel that you have been wronged by it." The moment I began, Natsuo froze and seemed unable to speak, so I continued, "You lost someone dear to you a short time ago and believe the world is to blame for the loss of them."

Natsuo snickered a bit, yet it was forced, I was hitting him in a place that hurts and I would assume that he has been avoiding. It is not new, individuals avoiding facing events that had to change their lives especially painful events. I myself understand the difficulty of doing the idea and have gone through the experience several times. "Your words are false sir," Natsuo said firmly.

The woman that had been floating by him was doing many things to get his attention and it was heartbreaking to observe. I wouldn't doubt she wanted to help him, save Natsuo from the dark destructive path that he was treading down, but Natsuo was completely unaware of her efforts. For a moment, she looked at me with tears in her eyes and whispered one word which my fox ears caught. I then focused back on Natsuo, "Her name was Lydia," I posed as that was the word that was whispered to me.

That single name made the smile disappear instantly from his face and an angered frown took its place, "You are not fit to speak her name," Natsuo growled, "You know nothing either of us!"

This is definitely an issue he has yet to be dealt with, likely by his own choice it is like this. And sadder still, the spirit of the one he had cared about was still with him unseen and she was doing everything she could to help him, but went unnoticed and unheeded. It would be when death came to Natsuo that he would come to know she had been with him trying to help. However, they will be separated soon after that revelation comes as for the things Natsuo has done will require a penance be made. I knew of the process that loss can bring to an individual through personal experience, it had been so especially the last four centuries for me. You can not overcome such loss alone, Miya had taught that to me as she had helped me move forward from the past that had shackled me.

I gazed at the young man, "Honestly, I am one of those that understand what it is to lose one near and dear to yourself," I admitted. "I have gone through losing those I cared about several times and it hurts each and every time for every one of them."

"You understand nothing of what I have experienced, how dare you claim to," Natsuo snarled.

I sighed and began what would be painful for this young man, "With her gone, it feels like there is a gaping hole in your life," I said simply which silenced Natsuo. "When she was alive, the world was so bright and warm. No matter how hard things became, as long as she was with you, it would be bearable. Just the sight of her smile, her face, the feel of her presence could and would brighten your day. And yet now, the world is filled with darkness and gloom as if the sun refuses to rise ever again."

Natsuo was shaking his head, "No, it isn't like that," he uttered.

His reactions told me I was saying the truth that he didn't want to admit to the world or himself, so I kept going. "And nothing you do lessens the pain that came to you when she was taken, nothing fills the void where her presence had place. You have tried many things to get the pain to go away, but nothing works, you only hide it from those around you, that is it. It feels like you are simply going through the motions of living, but not doing the activity any longer. Your life stopped when she died and hasn't been able to move forward since then."

"No no, you're wrong, you don't know what you are talking about," Natsuo challenged weakly.

I knew what I was talking about, and the woman floating by him begged me to keep going which motivated me to continue. "Her death shouldn't have happened, but it did, she was taken from you," I stated.

Natsuo was breathing raggedly, "She shouldn't have died, the world stole her when it shouldn't have," he snapped. "The world needs to suffer for all the time that she should have been here!"

I exhaled heavily, "Do you believe you are the only one that suffers from losing a loved one? I assure you are most certainly not alone in that," I reasoned. "It happens more often then you would think, and goes unnoticed by the world. It is one of the unfortunate facts of life, if you are born, then you will at some point die, it is so for all who live, that is how natural law intended it to be," I said.

It was what natural law dictated was the way things work to keep order and the world going as it does. Of course, there are some that are exceptions to some of the laws, but that is a different subject entirely. The laws of nature shouldn't be cursed for if they were not, then the world would fall apart and that would be a horrible thing indeed. The young man in response to what I said was shaking his head, "That is just something that has been accepted until now, it can be changed," he uttered.

Yet another human that pursues after something that is not what they envision it being, in this case immortality. At knowing that was what Natsuo was referring to, I shook my head, "You speak of the pursuit of cheating death and obtaining immortality," I said tiredly. "Many have attempted the pursuit and the fruits of those have only soured in one way or another and come to not. Immortality isn't how most imagine it to be, it is not a blessing as most believe it is but rather the opposite. Death should not be feared for it is but an end to a chapter, not the journey," I stated.

I have talked to a number of individuals upon this subject, and there tend to be one of two responses. The first is disbelief and saying in some form that I don't know what I'm talking about and the far more common one of the two I get. 'How could I know of what I speak' I get told, which since I am immortal myself, I know quite a bit truthfully. Yet, to those I tell that to, they think I'm lying and so I rarely bring up the point in the discussion. The second is acceptance and normally comfort that comes with understanding an unknown subject. Knowing that death is not an end, but merely, the completion of a chapter of the journey is comforting and it is the transition to the better side of the journey in my opinion.

Immortality is not a blessing as many think it is, I can personally attest to that and provide several reasons as to why it isn't. Living forever isn't as nice as imagined for little about oneself changes and everything around you does. The best comparison I've been able to come up with is it is as if you are standing still and all around you are passing by at different speeds. In other words, pretty much most get to keep moving forward yet you yourself do not get to progress forward. An immortal goes through loss over and over again throughout their existence along with other things, I have myself. You know there will come a time that you have to say goodbye to those you know and have grown close to. In essence, even when you're surrounded by people, you are alone for there is none that you can share what you experience with. Those are some of the things that make immortality a curse rather than a blessing consistently most of the time.

I focused on the man as I had seen the results of the mistake he was setting himself up to make and they have never been pretty. "Those that have gone from life had done so at the time fate had for them even when we do not know the time ourselves. Were you to drag them back, it brings misery, not happiness as you may believe," I iterated.

"You're wrong," Natsuo denied.

Honestly, with having had divinity at one time and having been around some of those who deal with this idea specifically, I know what I speak of. To go against the natural order comes at a price and a serious one for certain things and reversing death is definitely one of them. Not once have I seen an instance that an individual that brought another back and the results be happy and joyous in the end. "You can deny and lie to yourself as much as you wish," I stated. "It doesn't matter how many times you do so, it won't change the truth that you are telling yourself things that are false."

The expression of Natsuo's face morphed into fury before he rushed forward at me in the motion of attack. I used a hand to block the young man's fist while I kept my gaze on him with an impassive look, "Whine or throw a tantrum if you like, neither will change the world as it is despite what some would claim." I glanced at the woman floating behind Natsuo and the sorrowful expression was hard to see. "And what is sadder still, your actions merely cause pain to the one you lost, it's akin to torturing them." I shoved Natsuo back a short distance, "Destroying the world will profit nothing for anyone, it will never be worth it in the end."

Natsuo sunk to his knees, "NO! That's all I have left, I won't let you talk me out of it," he snarled.

There was silence for a moment, but then it was broken, "My my, this has been very educational to observe even if I missed the beginning," said a female voice.

I glanced over where the voice had come from to see Nina sitting on a building roof nearby. Now what Nina was doing here, I can' say though I wouldn't doubt she has a reason for being here. Nina was one that did what she did for a reason even if that was only known to her, and she wasn't one to fool around because she could, the second world war had made sure of that for Nina. So, I'm left to wonder what she is doing here, I suppose that asking would perhaps get an answer. "Nina, it is unexpected to see you around here at this time, I would assume that you have a reason," I posed.

Nina smiled and her rabbit ears twitched a bit, "Indeed I do sir," she replied before she slid off the roof and dropped to the ground. She strode over to where I was and bowed, "I was coming by to give you a status report for the work being done that I am a part of, but," she iterated glancing at Natsuo, "I thought it would be interesting to stop to get a view of this and I must say, it explains a great deal."

Natsuo had a surprised look on his face, "Doctor Kirk," he questioned.

Nina gazed at the young man with close to an expressionless face, it was a look I'd seen with her before. When I had met Nina in the land known as Germany, it had been during the second war the whole world had been swept up in. All had suffered during that conflict, but the expression Nina had when we first crossed paths was one that you don't normally see for the young. She had been a teenager at the time and and been fighting those in control of what had been called the "Axis powers" as part of the rebels in Germany. The face she had was one that those that fight a losing battle with everything they have, and yet know they are not making much of a difference have. Yet the interactions between Nina and I that brought us to where we stood now is a story for a different time.

"Yes, me Natsuo," Nina returned to him. "Do you think I would disappear like others have when Minaka either is through using them or wants to be rid of them?" Nina let out a scoff, "I prepared for that not too long after being hired, so I was ready to go out of reach of MBI when the time came." Nina shrugged, "And besides that Natsuo, I may have worked for MBI, yet I never saw Hiroto Minaka as my employer, rather he was a pain in the posterior in many ways and I dealt with him as such."

I cleared my throat drawing attention to me, "Nina, since you are here, would you mind helping shoo away MBI personnel who are foolishly trying to enforce their views," I asked somewhat tiredly. "As I recall, you have quite some effective ways sending armed people on their way from places they don't belong."

Nina nodded, "Certainly, I have been needing an opportunity to polish up that skill set, and though MBI security forces weren't what I would use them on, it will do."

She trotted off towards the sounds of battle going and I turned back to Natsuo and I intend to set the record straight. Nina could be considered as a individual that had done things that are mean and horrible, but she herself isn't a bad person. She had just suffered in terrible circumstances for a time, "Nina works for me and has been very good at keeping me informed about what goes on within MBI. And from what I have come to understand from her and others, your president is outright careless, foolish and ridiculous in how he does things. He will drag a number down when his fall comes," I stated. "And rest assured, his fall will come and harsh it will be as Justice will have her dues from all."

I left Natsuo on the ground where he was and began making my way towards where Miya was fighting Karasuba. With Natsuo in the state that he was in, that would affect Karasuba and make fighting her simpler. It was a fact Takehito established, the emotional and mental state of the ashikabi will affect their Sekirei whether it is for the better or the worst. Natsuo had been shaken and so Karasuba would have issues because of that. I picked up the pace as I saw the signs of the fight my wife was in, out of concern for her as much as wanting to help her.

-Miya's pov-

When Karasuba charged at Ashe, I didn't hesitate but rushed forwards and put myself between Ashe and her. I blocked her strike and shoved Karasuba back before bringing my sword to the ready. I would not let Karasuba hurt Ashe while I am able in any way to stop her from doing so. She may have bested me in our last encounter, but she was alone this time and didn't have others to toss at me to ware me down. Karasuba leaped back after I shoved her away, and she landed by the young man that was likely her ashikabi. She then kissed him activating her norito before she gained a maniacal expression that I'd seen her have before and it was never a good thing.

The two of us move away from the others around us, I did this more so that Karasuba didn't have the opportunity to kill others. Once in an open area that looked like a park, Karasuba zoomed at me and the fight began. Ashe was confident in me being able to fight Karasuba and come out victorious, I could feel that. That wasn't to say that Karasuba was making fighting her easy in any way and the environment around us quickly began to show that. Trees began having chunks missing, stone statues and stonework had gashes appearing and Karasuba appeared to be having the time of her life.

I was doing fine at first, I was keeping up with Karasuba between evading and parrying her attacks. However, as the fight went on and Karasuba continued to aggressively push forward, things became not fine. She wouldn't let up on her attacks, and I would guess that she has forgotten that adjusted Sekirei has a time limit to their norito. The time limit is usually five minutes or less as I recall Takehito mentioning, but I can't be sure at the moment. I shouldn't have that same limitation as I've had no adjustments made by MBI. Even with that being the case, I believed that I could outlast Karasuba's norito for once it runs out, her strength and speed take a serious decrease. And this time, I wasn't surrounded by MBI personnel, so it is far less likely for me to be disabled from behind as happened with the last encounter.

My hopes and expectations of lasting beyond Karasuba's norito took a hit when she did a few strikes and then broke my blade in two. I managed to duck out of the way of Karasuba's next swing, now forced to use half a sword to block attacks. That went on for almost a minute before a downward slice of Karasuba was brought to a halt by Ashe who had appeared in front of me. Ashe was using his left arm brace to hold Karasuba's sword at bay and he didn't budge from where he was. Then Ashe thrust the hilt of a sword he had in his right hand into Karasuba's midsection pushing her back a short distance.

Ashe then cast a barrier around us both before facing me, "Miya, are you all right," he asked.

"I am fine Ashe, I can handle this," I replied firmly.

Ashe placed his left hand on my shoulder, "I don't doubt you could win this," he stated, and I was starting to move forward but he stopped me. "However, that is not what I'm getting at Miya. You should not do this alone, we move forward together in whatever we face." Ashe glanced in the direction that Karasuba had flown back in before he continued, "And it is about time that it be shown that enough is enough in what has been done by that man. Minaka's most vicious attack dog is not unbeatable as he heavily implies and instills fear of facing. We will prove together that what that man has done and had others do is in no way an improvement but rather digression and corruption both to Sekirei and humans."

My husband's words honestly shocked me as this was a change for him since he didn't want anything to do with the Sekirei plan and what he suggested went against that mentality and shook its foundations. Then Ashe held up a sword and sheath in front of me, "Plus, I see you need a sword as you have broken yours. I had been intending to gift this to you but hadn't found the right opportunity until now, take it and use it as you see a reason to. I know that you will use it for the right purpose," he said.

The sword's sheath was elegant yet simple and beautiful, white overall with a mix of an artistic silver embroidery along the sheath. The hilt was wrapped in white with the pattern that many katana have with a white tassel on the end of it. The katana was one-hundred-twenty centimeters in length from its tip to where the hilt was connected, so it was shorter than my blade had been. I also felt strong magic come from the blade centering from where the blade slotted into the sheath. That Ashe was giving something like this to me was rare for this is no ordinary sword by what I could tell. I looked back to Ashe who was smiling, "We are a team Miya, we fight our battles together, not alone. Karasuba is alone and that is why she will be defeated in this," Ashe assured.

I couldn't argue with what Ashe had said, he was going to be in this fight whether I wished him to be or not. And honestly, I want to prove to Minaka that what he has been doing to Sekirei is wrong and that he was a fool and an evil man for what he has wrought. Ashe appeared to know that I was coming to agree with his view in this as he embraced me just before our lips met. My wings appeared behind me as my Sekirei crest began shining. "By the depths of my bond," I chanted, "The unhappiness of my Ashikabi shall vanish away!" The air around us grew heavy with power to the point it vibrated as my norito activated. I felt boundless energy flowing through me and a burning warmth came to me which was the bond Ashe and I have strengthening and empowering us both.

We faced Karasuba and she did not show any fear, but insane excitement at me using my norito. Hers will run out soon and then she will be defeated if not sooner than that if I have my way in this. I drew the sword that Ashe had given me to see the blade was made of a material I had never seen before. The blade was perfectly balanced, better than the Totsuge no Tsuruigi had ever been that I could remember. Ashe shifted into a martial art stance just before Karasuba shot towards us aiming for me specifically.

I stopped Karasuba's blade with mine, and at the same time, Ashe disappeared and moved to be a distance behind our opponent. With the strength that my norito gave me, I shoved Karasuba back easier than before. Karasuba was in the process of recovering from the backward motion, yet Ashe kicked her down to slam into the ground before she could. The grey-haired Sekirei got up and glared at Ashe and focused on him taking her attention off of me. As Karasuba sprinted forward to attack Ashe, he blocked while I rushed at Karasuba and whipped the flat of my blade into her back causing her to stumble a few steps.

Karasuba swung her head toward me, to which I gazed back at her calmly in contrast to her expression and lack of control. She represented the epitome of what came from MBI's work on Sekirei, Karasuba was how far a Sekirei could go after being adjusted by MBI before they came to a halt and couldn't progress any farther. So as Ashe said, let the end of this stand as a testament of what Minaka's influence does. Karasuba kept fighting Ashe and me, but she was losing against us. I could see the signs that her norito had run out and the price of it was starting to affect her though she didn't let it show much. There quickly came a point where I faced Karasuba and spoke, "You will lose this battle Karasuba," I stated, "You cannot win this as you are right now."

Karasuba cackled, "You haven't won Miya, your blood will bathe my blade," she challenged. "You lost to me before and it will be so again! Your time of being the strongest has passed, so accept your fate and move aside for those that have surpassed you to take their rightful place!"

Ashe appeared a distance behind Karasuba, "Your lust for blood has blinded you," Ashe said. "You have lost this fight already for you are alone while we are not."

Karasuba swung around to face Ashe, "That just means that I'll kill you both, I need no one, I alone will dominate," she snarled.

Ashe shook his head, "You only won in your last battle because you used others and employed dishonorable means to give yourself the pathetic and cowardly advantage. You will not have that this time as those you used aren't here, and your ashikabi will be of no help to you," he stated. "And your time has run out as well Karasuba."

The three of us resumed fighting, but rapidly Karasuba's speed and strength began decreasing. That meant that the recoil from using her norito had begun hitting and become vicious end of the double-edged sword of the norito, it gives a boost but leaves the individual weaker after it runs out. That didn't deter Karasuba from fighting Ashe and I but as Ashe began to use magic with his strikes against her, Karasuba was quickly getting slower and weaker. Then my strikes with my new sword were adding to the beating that Karasuba was taking. Her smile was gone and had been replaced by a frown and then grimace of rage.

The battle ended with me hitting Karasuba's nodachi out of her hands and it spun into the air. That was quickly followed up by Ashe striking her in the back and shocking her with electricity. Karasuba sunk to her knees with an expression of disbelief on her face, "This… can't… be," she uttered before collapsing. Just after Karasuba hit the ground, her nodachi came flipping downward and came to stick into the ground next to her showing many cracks all along the blade.

Ashe and I left Karasuba where she had fallen and headed for where the commotion that was MBI's security forces being fought were still coming from. I got separated from Ashe not too long after we began assisting those defending their homes.

-Ashe's pov-

It didn't take a great deal of time to shoo away the MBI personnel that were left from their attempted takeover. Yet, Miya had become separated from me during that time, which was okay for we would meet back home. But the work done was not the kind that I like or is nice to be perfectly honest. I don't like killing another, it doesn't bring about the best results even when it is necessary, which most of the time it shouldn't be.

On this night many lives had been lost, too many in my view and I say that for both sides of this unneeded conflict. There will be children that would return to their homes with a parent or family member gone now and sorrow would come to them. I know all of those that had fought had volunteered to defend their homes and families along with others. Yet, though they had volunteered, it still didn't make it any nicer than some had died for the task.

And yet, the one responsible for this bloodshed and for the streets bathed in the blood which was being removed I would bet more than likely thought nothing of this. When events that could reflect badly on MBI happened, they were either covered up or announced in such a way that made it look like MBI had nothing to do with causing it. However, for this, I would not let the truth be covered up or waved off, not with the lives that had been lost. Minaka would be held accountable for this action he ordered whether he feels like he should or not! And there were more than enough to witness the truth to make sure it returned to Minaka. Then as it happens, I know some of those that work within the world of law and its interpretation. Many of those have the motivation to take MBI down a peg or more so they would be unlikely to say no were I to ask.

I made my way to the shrine to check in on Leia and the children that had been taken there for their safety. It has already been a long night and it isn't done yet and I wish it to come to a close soon. Upon arriving, I did gain a feeling of warmth at the sight of families reuniting, of parents finding their children. It brings the urge to snuggle with Kai and spend time with him which I'm denied due to Minaka. The feeling of family was one of the good emotions that I am around on a fairly regular basis over the millennia I've been around.

I milled around the crowd for a bit before I found Leia and asked her to give me a summary of how things had been going here at the shrine. She told me that the children had been uncomfortable and scared to varying degrees while the fighting had been going on. There had been a commotion from the area in front of the shrine and Leia had gone to investigate. What she had found was Minato and the other young man with their Sekirei and they had been facing to of MBI's Sekirei including the pink-haired peeping pervert from before.

Things hadn't been going very well for Minato and Leia telling me that Akitsu and Kuu had gotten there in time to save Minato was good to hear. Leia had stepped in shortly after that and had Minato keep going while she dealt with the two Sekirei. She had whipped the two MBI attack dogs with little issue, but I would be surprised if she hadn't. And Leia had finished off with putting the two in an illusion and hung them from street lamps. Then apparently, Nina had come by and taken the two Sekirei and gone to deliver them back to MBI which was fine. After being told all of the chain of events, I let out a sigh of slight relief, "Leia, once again, thank you for your efforts, they are appreciated," I remarked.

Leia bowed to me, "Think nothing of it," she replied, then frowned. "However Ashe, there is a minor issue that has come up.

I focused on Leia, "That being Leia," I posed.

"Well," she began but hesitated, "from what happened tonight, there are now four children that have no home to go back to."

Leia then told me about the four individuals she was referring to and what she told me tugged at my heart. There were four children, two boys and two girls that had no place to go now due to the after-effects of the fight against MBI. The two boys were both Inugami and brothers as well and the only family one another had as of tonight. Their father had died in an accident close to five years ago and their mother was one of those that had sacrificed their lives in the defense of the north of Tokyo. The older of the two girls was a nekomata that had been living with different families up till now with no information on her own family. Those that she had been with couldn't help her for the time being due to the change in circumstances. The other girl was a tengu and she had been with her aunt, but like the boys, said aunt hadn't made it through the fight unfortunately.

Of course, there were families that could take them in if not here then in other places around Japan. I know Yasaka would be more than willing to find those willing to take the four in for she has done such before now. But it is still difficult to move from the place you know after what has happened and it would be better if they were to be around here still. Plus, I've always had a soft spot in my heart for children that was one I didn't ignore often. And it was these things that helped me make the decision, "Leia," I said gaining her attention, "I will give them a home."

Leia blinked, "Wait what," she questioned.

"I said I will take them all in and give the four a home," I stated firmly.

Leia looked hesitant with my reply, "Ashe, I know you have a soft spot for children, especially those that find themselves in harsh situations, whether self-imposed or not, and it is well with you," she answered. "Yet, these children will need help in a number of ways with their ages and the losses they have just experienced. This would be different than Rena and Mari, and those two were far more difficult than those you've taken in previously, much more so together."

I exhaled knowing whom Leia was referring to as they had lived at Izumo in and had been in the last group of children I had taken in. Rena was an Okami or wolf youkai and Mari had been a nekomata. Let's just say that the two kinds of youkai tend not to get along, much as cats and dogs do by nature. Adult youkai tolerate and get past the natural dislike, but children have more difficulty and those two proved that point to me once again. The two that Leia mention had shown that they disliked each other on pretty much a daily basis. "I am aware that it would be different than helping those two and I haven't forgotten how difficult Rena and Mari were to deal with. They got close to destroying the house with how they fought with one another," I said. "But as you said, these children need help and Izumo Inn can handle that. Plus, Miya will be around to help out and having a mother figure can do wonders, you know that as well as I do."

Leia appeared to have a moment of internal conflict before she sighed in acceptance, "I see you have made your decision on this and I know that the children would have a good home with you," she admitted, "very well then, if you would follow me."

Leia led me to the main shrine, and it was there I saw the children she had been referring to. The two boys were close together, the older one staying in front of the younger. They looked rather similar to one another, both had short grey hair and floppy dog ears on the side of their heads which blended into their hair. The younger boy who appeared to be around five had blue eyes while his older brother that looked to be nine or so had brown, both with rounded facial features.

The female nekomata was not too far from where the two boys were but were separate from them. She appeared to be nine or ten and had auburn colored medium length hair which her feline ears had the same color. Overall, the girl was quite cute, in a similar way as Kuu is cute, yet there was an air of mischief about this child. She had green eyes and a pretty face to match that leave little doubt that she would be beautiful when she is an adult.

The fourth child was on a rafter above the other three meaning she knew how to fly at her age which isn't unexpected. The other girl who looked to be around the same age range as Kuu is herself was the tengu. The girl had straight raven black hair that went down to the top of her neck which framed her olive-colored eyes. Her body frame was compact, but that was to be expected with tengu as they have it that way so they can fly.

Leia clapped her hands together, "Children, could you come over here please," she called. The four children came to Leia, "There is one here that is willing to give all four of you a home for as long as you need," she said.

She gestured at me and I smiled as the four looked at me, the majority of my fox features out so they could see I was a non-human like they were. "Hello young ones, it is nice to meet you all, I do hope we can get along," I greeted.

All but the nekomata girl stayed with Leia, the girl took a few steps forward, "And what makes you think we need a home," she challenged.

I did snicker, not at the challenge, but that I had heard something very similar from Mari when we first met. "I admit, you remind me of another nekomata that I encountered some time ago who was around the same age as you are now back then. I would say what I did to her, do you have another place you need to be for something? If you cannot come up with a pressing engagement you have, then why not give this a chance," I asked.

The girl looked to be thinking, which didn't last long without frustration coming to her face. Her cat ears laid flat on her head, "No fair," she uttered.

I moved forward and petted her head, "Being on your own and taking care of yourself comes with time and practice," I reasoned. "When given the opportunity to have a place, one should be not so quick to refuse it, you may find lessons and experiences that you never imagined you would have with the opportunity. Many children that I've taken in have learned that while living with me."

The girl let out a mew as I petted her head gently and that seemed to act as a signal for the other three children as they came forward. It didn't take long to have the children get the few possessions and then I led them to Izumo Inn. Oddly, I was the first to get back by what I could tell from the events of the night. I kind of expected that the other inhabitance would arrive back before me with all that happened tonight. Once inside, the children were glancing around and for the tengu girl, she began flying around not too long after we got to the house.

It felt nice to have children around the house again for it had been over two decades since there had been children living here. Kuu is somewhat different from these children and the others that have been through for she has a different connection to me. My attention was brought back to the present when there was a rumbling sound. I looked at the nekomata girl who was holding her middle with an embarrassed expression on her face. I smiled a bit, "I assume that it has been some time since any of you had something to eat," I posed. Neither girl responded other than not looking at me, the boys were nodding in answer to me. "Well then, a meal is in order," I said, "I won't have any of you going hungry."

I head for the kitchen and the four followed, the boys staying together, the nekomata girl not too far from them. The tengu girl landed on a cabinet and had her wings vanish as she watched curiously as to me cooking for them. The four were suspicious and I don't blame them with the changes that had occurred for them all. However, as they started to smell the food, I believe their stomachs began telling them what to do more than their minds. At least they were more than willing to carry the food to the table in the dining room when it was ready, and with how they then began eating, they were definitely hungry.

As I observed them eating, I did see signs that there would need to be manners taught to them, which is fine. But then, children tend to be like that, Kai certainly is still and that I expect for this age range as well. Miya and I would gently educate these children and I believe give them a chance for good things going forward even with the tragedy and sorrow they had experienced.

A/n

That's where I'll leave off for this chapter. Okay, where to start with this chapter? Of course, there is the escape for Haurka and his Sekirei, but that's not what was neat in this chapter and I think most would agree with that. There was MBI's security forces getting whipped in a way that they never saw coming. Or how about Natsuo breaking down during his chat with Ashe? Although, I believe the coolest of all would be the fight and following defeat of Karasuba by Ashe and Miya.

Let me just beak some of this down for you readers and give some details. MBI getting ousted, it was coming, those that live in the north of Shito Tato aren't going to do what Minaka says. So it was kind of clear there would be a battle, which came in this chapter and it wasn't pretty or clean for either side. Yet, if you think that Minaka will change from this, think again for he will keep on his path for the time being.

Next the talk between Ashe and Natsuo, and there is some point to it other than Ashe bringing to task Natsuo. Natsuo is noted to hate the world and that is supposedly one of the reasons that he is the ashikabi of Karasuba. There is also some history with Ashe as he says what he sees immortality to a degree and how he has discussed it with others. At the end, we get more info about Nina Kirk which I hope you readers liked.

Finally, the fight against Karasuba and Miya. I had always intended there to be another fight between Miya and Karasuba where it would be one on one without Benisubasa and Haihane. Ashe coming into it was also a given, it was to show the implied reason that Miya's kidnapping happened when Ashe wasn't there occurred because it was just Miya fighting. Miya and Ashe are a team and that will beat Karasuba. Then there is the difference between a norito of a Sekirei that has a contract and a bond. Miya proves that a bond will beat out and contract like Karasuba has and there are less limits to it.

To conclude these remarks, some of up please take some time to write reviews about what you think of this chapter and the rewrite I've done. I do appreciate the input and I do read the reviews and answer them the best I can. Until the next chapter, peace out!