Chapter 3: First Meetings
[Heads up, you have one of the birds headed your way.]
Alesandro ruefully stared at the text from Lander, not having expected to meet with a Sekirei so soon after his arrival in Shinto Teito. And while it was perfectly possible that all of this was just a simple case of one of them noticing and then subsequently bonding to him that raised the question of when it happened.
...And it wasn't entirely out of the question that this aforementioned Sekirei was in MBI's employ and that they had found him to be suspicious, this agent coming to 'question' his presence. That was the height of paranoia, granted—there had been precious few opportunities for the company to make note of any kind of wrongdoing or espionage he was engaged in—but better safe than dragged off to a holding cell somewhere dark and uncharted.
With that thought firmly in mind the man regretfully abandoned his home-cooked dinner for himself in order to retrieve a special syringe from his briefcase, loaded with a medical cocktail that was guaranteed to put even a Sekirei into a deep slumber for quite the span of time.
With that action completed and the simple dish of fresh salmon, rice and stir fry ready to be consumed Alesandro glanced at the simple dining room...and sighed, setting out a plate for two.
It would be rather rude—both to either a guest or potential foe—if he didn't at least allow them the basic hospitality of a shared meal.
Settling down to wait the young man allowed himself to wonder what this mystery guest of his would look and act like, since his uncle hadn't seen fit to share any of the details. He'd seen rumors on the internet of mysterious and ludicrously beautiful men and women roaming the streets of the city, looking and searching for someone who would then be selected as one of the 'chosen' to lead Humanity into a new future.
Ominous in nature, especially when one remembered that MBI held control of a set of Jinki that could directly affect all those that held within them Sekirei genes, nearly half of all current day Humans. Just one more reason to conclude his investigation and other tasks as quickly as possible...and get to the bottom of this entire debacle before it inevitably spiraled out of control.
To that end this Sekirei could be a valuable source of information in either confirming or denying his worries and suspicions about the nature of the corporation's end goal.
As if in confirmation of his thoughts on the matter there was a timid thump at the front door followed by a moment of silence...and then a vastly more confidant knock, Alesandro taking a deep breath before approaching the entryway, syringe within easy reach if it became necessary.
While baseline Sekirei were vastly superior than Humans in almost every physical regard there remained enough of their prowess in his genetic code—carefully cultivated by the first generation of those who had mated with the Sekirei from the colony ships that had landed successfully thousands of years ago—that he would fare far better than most if it came to a fight.
He unlatched the door, swung it open while wearing an easy smile-
-and felt as if he'd been punched in the face, despite there being a rather conspicuous lack of physical assault.
The alien woman before him was...stunning.
Pale-white hair that caught the warm yellow light from the gradually dipping afternoon sun and made it seem as it glowed with an ethereal light, artfully restrained by a pair of ribbons so that dual lengths fell across her slim shoulders, a tasteful sun hat of black and white blocking out the rays of sol from burning pale and flawless features of European descent.
A white dress that heroically tried to restrain and conceal a magnificent bust that seemed ready to spill out at the slightest provocation, made all the more enticing by a slim and fragile seeming waist, the flared bottom half of her dress silky and transparent with black lace trim while luscious legs were on full display, polished black heels and white garters disappearing into a much shorter skirt that barely concealed wide hips and more feminine areas.
The gentle air of a refined lady was merely made manifest in the delicate arm gloves she wore and the sparkling humor and affection contained with glimmering eyes of sky-blue coloration.
...He'd heard tales from his family how insanely attractive the original Sekirei had been, how they had been able to bewitch and endear with only their appearance alone. It was one thing to hear that, another to be struck clean across the face with it. What made the situation all the worse was that he could feel his body and mind responding to the woman's mere presence as his genetic heritage resonated just by mere proximity, demanding that he comfort, love and please her in any emotional or physical capacity he could manage.
…
It was a good thing he had plenty of practice in categorizing and recognizing these urges for what they were and ensuring that they didn't impair his judgement, at least not for more than a few seconds. It was something all members of their community underwent, so that chance meetings between trained and untrained individuals didn't result in hasty actions both parties might later come to regret.
"Thankfully she doesn't appear to be any kind of assassin. In fact I would dare say she's handling things even less well than I am."
If he had been struck dumb by the glorious woman's arrival for a few moments it was nothing compared to her own state, pale skin heavily flushed, arms jittery and lovely chest lightly heaving with hypnotic motions as she struggled for air.
"Ah. This must be the 'Reacting' original Sekirei experienced upon meeting their chosen. It looks like Hell to deal with."
As if response to that idle thought the woman took a bold step forward, glittering orbs dancing with some primal light as she looked up into Alesandro's own emerald ones, lips parting in a seductive display of flawless pink-
-and she mastered herself before going too far, the male relaxing slightly as he'd been fully prepared to keep her from kissing him and therefore Winging herself. While that was still very much his plan it wouldn't hurt to take things slow and get to know the woman first, if only so that he had a slightly better idea of what to prepare himself for in dealing with her.
Tactfully clearing her throat the refined young lady took a step back before offering a curtsy, voice soft and melodic as she stated, "My apologies about the unbecoming display, master Rastus. For a proper introduction you may call me Sekirei #32, Illustrious. It is an honor to make your acquaintance."
Raising an eyebrow at the formal and regal greeting—but not at all turned off by it—he simply reciprocated her mannerisms, lightly taking her hand and placing a brief kiss on the cool material of her glove, a gleeful shiver wracking the woman's form as he did so.
"Alesandro Rastus, pleased to meet you as well, my lady. And as much as I'm not complaining about such a development I also can't quite remember doing anything that would warrant a visit by a lovely girl such as yourself."
Amused at how the newly named Illustrious seemed to squirm in delight at his words while also trying to remain composed she replied, "Ah, well you see, I...erm..."
A blush that had nothing to do with her flushed reactions and everything to do with her awkwardness colored the Sekirei's cheeks, tone embarrassed as she continued with, "I wished to meet you after glimpsing you passing by earlier in the day, the gentleman Lander at the company you visited gave me your address and, well...here I am now?"
Inwardly dismayed at her terrible dialogue Illustrious wailed, "How pathetic and uncouth! My Ashikabi's first impressions cannot be of a stuttering simpleton who merely dresses regally! Beating heart, be still so that I may successfully argue my and my sister's case to be Winged!"
Thankfully her social ineptitude due to her reacting was either forgiven or ignored, the taller male gesturing to the inside of his home as he stated, "Well, would you like to come on inside? I was just about to eat dinner and wouldn't mind company."
The Sekirei nearly teleported through the door before common decency halted her in her tracks, politely stating, "While that's very kind of you I wouldn't wish to impose..."
"Not at all. And I'm somewhat familiar with the Sekirei program and MBI's upcoming game, if you don't mind I'd like to ask a number of questions about it during our meal."
Almost faltering at the realization that her Ashikabi was knowledgeable about matters that should have been secret Illustrious quickly decided that she didn't care, instead eagerly striding into her most brilliant light's place of residence, looking about with eager eyes.
Alesandro was just hoping she wasn't expecting to find any personal touches or anything like that, the home had been purchased exclusively with the mission in mind and lacked anything beyond basic functionality and recreational amenities. Sturdy hardwood floors on the bottom level with white-painted walls that wouldn't be blinding when exposed to light, a second level with carpeting and two bedrooms, one of them with a king-sized bed and the other a queen.
Having more than a few occupants on hand had been one of the expectations of this little venture.
Not that the Sekirei seemed to mind as she happily gazed around at the simple but tasteful furniture, eventually stating, "You have not been here for very long, have you?" as she set her hat aside on a nearby stand.
"No, just arrived a few hours ago, actually. Would you care to eat now or later?"
Illustrious's eyes travelled to where the food had been set aside and immediately felt her eyes widen, bowing her head in apology as she hurriedly stated, "How rude of me, I did not intend to keep you from your meal-"
"It's fine, miss Illustrious. Here, let's have a seat and discuss things further."
Recognizing that she would likely enjoy a bit of gentlemanly behavior if her own proclivities and way of speaking were any indication Alesandro pulled out a chair for the Sekirei, Illustrious practically swooning at the act as she gracefully smoothed out her dress before seating herself, offering the man a radiant smile as he grabbed the dishes and placed them before the two of them.
"Feel free to serve yourself, we can talk once we're both sated."
A feminine giggle left the women, tone playful as she replied, "If you're truly aware of the nature of us Sekirei then you should understand that this treatment is very devilish indeed~."
Unable to help the small smile that crested his lips Alesandro raised the glass of saki he had served them both, toasting, "To sudden and unexpected meetings."
"Quite so."
They clinked their glasses together and drank deeply, returning to their meal with a comfortable but anticipatory silence.
Illustrious was practically over the moon and fighting the urge to squeal in a most decidedly ungraceful manner, that she was eating her chosen's hand-cooked meal, the quality not bad at all despite it being simple fare.
Then again she wasn't sure if she would have been displeased to be served a simple bowl of cereal, such was the magnifying factor of being in her Ashikabi's presence.
"This sensation...it's unbearable and wonderful all at once. Oh dear, I do hope I'm not making a fool of myself by eating too fast, in order to get to the topic of conversation all the quicker..."
To the Sekirei's immense relief the meal concluded at a fairly rapid pace, both of them having significant appetites and within minutes she was swiftly gathering the dishes and taking them to the sink despite the male's protests.
"It's my house, it's only right that I-"
"Nonsense, you offered a stranger a free meal with few questions asked, it's only right that I contribute in some way."
"...Very well, at least allow me to dry them while you wash."
The Sekirei accepted the compromise with a graceful nod, removing her gloves and commencing to clear out the sink with elegant motions...not that she was overly aware of her actions, instead the buxom woman was yet again marveling at the proximity of her future Ashikabi, of how he was standing almost shoulder-to-shoulder with her...well, shoulder-to-bicep, to be more precise.
"It's only now that it's truly driven home just how tall he is...my oh my, I wonder if he's just as gifted in height down there—no, now is not the time for such disgraceful thoughts, Illustrious!"
Mentally scolding herself for harboring dirty thoughts at such a crucial moment she instead asked, "If you don't mind my asking, master Alesandro...when you said you are knowledgeable of Sekirei what did you mean by that?"
"I suppose it's time to have that talk, isn't it? Very well, but two questions before we begin. First is this...why the 'master' moniker?"
All too happy to answer Illustrious stated, "Because if you decide to become our Ashikabi then you will be our master, obviously~."
While Alesandro had questions about why becoming an Ashikabi automatically made him superior to them he held his tongue, also choosing to ignore the 'our' part...at least for the moment.
"My second question is this. If you become my bonded, how far would you go to aid me and stay by my side?"
He gave Illustrious the most serious expression he could muster.
"If I was to end up opposed to MBI...would you still wish to be Winged by-"
"Oh, without question. You need not fear our loyalty, master Alesandro. If we become a part of your flock then we would endeavor to please and assist you in whatever manner you deem necessary."
Pleased with her certain and bold declaration Illustrious looked to meet her future beloved's gaze...and blinked as while he did seem reassured there was also...worry?
Disappointment?
A rush of fear coursed through her veins at the mere idea that she had somehow let her Ashikabi down until he nodded in confirmation, expression once more neutral and composed.
"I see, thank you."
"So, does that mean you will be our-"
She immediately fell silent as he raised his hand in a request for silence, the man explaining, "I'm assured of your loyalty and devotion, Illustrious...but it's only fair you are aware of my own so that you can decide whether you want to be my Sekirei."
Feeling more bold and daring than ever before the woman grabbed one of his hands and placed it over her chest, almost letting a moan slip past her lips before she stifled it at the wonderful sensation of his palm and fingers twitching slightly at the action, momentarily sinking into her breast as she forced herself to stare into the startled male's eyes—allowing herself an entire second to exult in the knowledge her body excited him so—before stating, "You can feel my heartbeat, can you not? And if you are as familiar with Sekirei as you claim then you should know how severe my reaction to you is...I have wandered the city for many days, witnessing hundreds and then thousands of people and not a single one made me feel as you do. I am more certain of this decision than anything else I have been in my entire life."
While that statement earned a smile from the man his tone was firm as he stated, "Then if not for your sake, will you at least listen for mine?"
Offering up a playful yet chagrined pout Illustrious replied, "Oh very well, I cannot argue such a heartfelt plea...but in return I would like for you to continue feeling my heartbeat."
Blushing crimson at the brazen demand the Sekirei nonetheless stuck to her guns, meeting the man's eyes with an unwavering gaze as he coughed awkwardly.
"Miss Illustrious-"
"Just Illustrious, if you would."
"Illustrious. While I'm by no means not enjoying your more womanly features this is an important discussion we need to have and it's hard for me to concentrate when I'm essentially fondling you."
Holding the man's stare for a moment longer the Sekirei regretfully relented, freeing his hand and allowing it to retract from her deliciously tingling breast.
"Heavens above and Hells below, that felt...glorious! What would it be like if we were actually bonded...or if he were to touch me in that spot?"
Failing miserably in hiding her full-body shudder at the notion Illustrious was abruptly broken from her trance as Alesandro invited her to the couch, the Sekirei eagerly following him as he took a seat at one end...and she elegantly placed herself as close as physically possible, smile wide and beaming.
"I never imagined teasing and interacting with my Ashikabi would be so entertaining...my sisters are going to be exhibiting such jealousy when they realize the strides I've made in ensuring he considers me to be his favorite~!"
Inwardly smirking in a manner most undignified at the thought the Sekirei made to pose a question to the man-
-and sighed as her phone began to ring.
She was perfectly willing to ignore it were it not fer her Ashikabi questioning, "Do you need to answer that?"
"...Yes, my apologies, master Alesandro...but it could be important."
Pulling out the device Illustrious blinked as it was a message from none other than Unicorn, saying that she was less than five minutes away from the house.
"I suppose it was too much to ask that I be allowed to spend much time alone with my Ashikabi...well, no sense in being angry at dear Unicorn, at least she won't be as possessive as Victorious would."
"Something wrong?"
"No, nothing like that. Master Alesandro, would you be against one of my closest sisters joining us?"
Tilting his head the man nonetheless replied, "Of course not, but in that case we should likely hold off on our conversation for a moment until she arrives."
Feeling another bout of giddiness wash over her Illustrious lightly traced the curve of Alesandro's jaw, asking, "Agreed, but while we wait why not give me a slight teaser of some of these secrets and deviations about us Sekirei that you know of?"
Appearing thoughtful for a moment the man eventually nodded, responding, "Did MBI inform you of your species' past? Of how it came from another star and integrated itself into Humanity quite well thousands of years ago?"
Illustrious blinked.
"...I beg your pardon?"