-Shinto Tower-

Slumping back into his seat after sending the text message to the terrifying new Ashikabi, the glasses wearing man let out a painful groan. Going by just feeling he guessed he had a few cracked ribs and at least a concussion. He let a smirk cross his bloody maw, the new anomaly was definitely more than meets the eye. He had a new mission at the moment, he had to find a way to convince Kurosaki to join the game and play by the rules. Even though their conversation ended on bad terms he needed the hatted man's help.

"Re-kidnapping Orihime-Chan is definitely out of the question." He mused aloud, a slight shiver raced down his spine at the very idea of the orange haired man coming back for her. "No that is not an option at all, but if I could find her before he does and turn her over as an offer of truce than maybe. I really need to know what drives him though. Is it love? Loyalty? The drive to ruin others plans?"

"He's a protector like his name sake suggests." Came the smooth voice of Karasuba. She couldn't remember why she came up to this annoying man's office, but taking in his appearance she was glad that she had. She silently kicked herself for not coming up here earlier though 'Looks like I missed a hell of a party!'

"I am assuming you're talking about Orihime's friend right?" the gray eyed woman inquired.

"Heh heh yes I am. He seems to be quite agitated with me at the moment as you can see. So you're guessing he is a protector because of his name? I guess that fits better than it meaning strawberry like I guessed!" he exclaimed only to double over in pain. Regaining his composure he continued "What do you think he wants to protect though. I know Orihime is one of them, but he was being quite protective when he broke that other Ashikabi's back. He treated that forcefully winged Sekirei with sympathy and carried out a punishment on her behalf. Also the young resident of the apartment number 10 disappeared from has also gone missing. I doubt he would have harmed a young child, my guess is he moved her to Karakura to keep her out of this game."

Even though he was wobbling back and forth in his seat, she had to admit he was making decent sense. She only made her assumption off of his name and the fact that he rushed to the capital in hot pursuit of the young Sekirei. If he was the type of person that wanted to protect all the weak insignificant beings in this world she could definitely make an enemy out of this man.

"So you're saying he wants to protect all these worthless worms crawling around this planet." The disgusted hound spat out. The very idea leaving a bad taste in her mouth.

"Maybe, it certainly fits his behavior since he's been here." Stopping to spit some blood in a trash can he continued. "I need you and your team to track down number 90 and for the love of all things holy don't harm her!"

"We can do that. One question though how the hell did he get his hands on you without setting off an alarm!?" the grey haired woman demanded. She was at a loss on how this newbie just waltzed in and manhandled the president.

"He is incredibly well trained in infiltration missions would be my guess. I don't know his accomplices, but I have a feeling the man I talked to on the computer set me up. He kept me in a stagnant location at an exact time making me a sitting duck for his violent hound." The game master incorrectly concluded. Looking at the gleam in other woman's eyes he knew she would seek him out for a fight.

"You may want to be carful around him Karasuba he is definitely not to be underestimated." The eccentric man warned.

"Tch, some monkey could never hope to be my equal. I will track down Orihime and send Takami up with some medical help for you." She stated as she turned to leave sharply making her gray haori flutter behind in her wake.

"Thanks." He replied as he started to type a new message to the Ashikabi. "Hopefully I can stop them before she gets winged. Can't have my heart being ripped out after all, going to need it when my dear Takami finally lets me join the family!"

"I told you moron that is never going to happen! Wow what happened to you! I just passed Karasuba on my way here she said you were a little banged up, but I didn't expect this!" The white haired woman was flabbergasted. Minaka never has had his ass kicked in his life, so seeing him like this was quite the shock for the lead researcher. Even though he was disoriented he seemed to be taking it well, he didn't even seem overly angry about it. 'That's going to change though. If he gets the upper hand he can be very spiteful.'

"Aggressive negotiations about the return of Orihime to her protectors care." He replied putting up a strong front around the only woman he had been capable of loving.

Making a small noise in acknowledgement the mother of two made her way to one of the consoles against the wall. Pulling up the security footage she inwardly chuckled 'Aggressive negotiations my ass he pretty much got shit stomped while he cowered in fear.' Watching the interesting teen drag Minaka to the edge and dangle him over made her eyes widen considerably. She knew that Kurosaki Ichigo was dangerous, but he was fully intending to kill without a moment of hesitation. Rewinding the footage she confirmed what she had seen previously, after he received the phone call his whole demeanor changed.

"You wouldn't happen to know what that phone call was about would you?"

"Oh that, well someone informed my young guest about a certain message that I may have sent out." He replied starting to feel a little bit better. He knew it was only momentary though, if there was one thing Takami hated it was when he made the little birds targets for the Ashikabi.

"What exactly was in that message Minaka? You wouldn't have been stupid enough to make her a target with a very dangerous and unknown being looking for her would you?" she asked with a sickeningly sweet voice as she slowly closed the distance between them.

"Eh heh heh maybe." Seeing her advance on him he raised his hands in defense. "Takami dear I'm already injured, please I think I'm in need of serious medical attention!"

"You are the dumbest smart person I have ever met! You deserved the beating that young man gave you! I should make you walk all the way to the fortieth floor on your own!" She screamed as she cracked him over the head. "And don't call me dear!"

-Discipline Squad-

"I am so damn bored when are we going to do something? All we have done since joining the discipline squad is hang out and train. Aren't you bored Haihane?" A young pink haired girl complained out loud. Waiting a few seconds for an answer she glanced over to her partner in curiosity, only to grow agitated when she was ignored in favor of a television show.

"What the hell is your problem I'm talking to you?!" the pinkette roared

"Yes I know, you're always talking. So most the time I tune you out during my shows." The slender gray haired female returned while chuckling. She actually enjoyed Benitsubasa's company, teasing her and getting on her nerves provided endless sources of entertainment.

"With that mouth of yours and flat chest we're never going to get an Ashikabi, you know that right?" the taller female prodded. The sudden look of insult and rage crossing her friends face was all it took for a smile to appear on the emo looking sekirei's face.

"You bitch!" The young hand to hand fighter roared as she charged her teammate. She knew Haihane was just fucking with her, but fighting with her was a great way to train and pass time.

Walking into the shared living quarters the team leader just sighed at the destruction her underlings were creating. Long having become accustomed to their constant bickering and brawls the black sekirei just took a seat and observed. She had to admit the short time they have been members of the squad their battle prowess had increased immensely. She knew that she should be putting an end to the feud, but it was fairly entertaining watching the blue sekirei dodge the red's attacks while taunting her the entire time. After having to dodge a thrown table was when she decided it was enough and time to get back on track.

"All right you two we have a mission to go on, so knock it off." The older woman instructed in a commanding tone.

"Kara-sama what's the mission? Are we finally going to be able to kick some ass?!" the excited 105th questioned. This was just the thing she needed at the moment, a mission where she could shed some blood.

"Maybe, but this is a retrieval mission and our target is not to be harmed unfortunately. We are going after the one that escaped last night."

"Why the hell would we waste time with that? She needs to find an Ashikabi anyway and it would be easier out there than in here." The Blue Sekirei decided to add to the conversation.

"Oh that's right you two haven't heard have you? Apparently this morning a very strong individual broke into that dumbass Minaka's office and nearly killed him for taking her." Karasuba informed them the excitement in her voice was palpable. She was tingling with anticipation to meet the man responsible for the brutal attacks.

"No way! How the hell is that possible?!" the other two screamed in unison. For an enemy to sneak into Shinto Tower was unheard of. Even though Minaka's welfare was the least of their concerns, someone walking into their home and tearing shit up slightly wounded their pride.

"I'm not sure how he managed it, but I definitely want to see it!" the leader stated walking over to a computer table that thankfully was left untouched in the brawl. Pulling up the footage the three could only stare in shock and slight admiration of the orange haired man's prowess. Watching him hang the white haired weirdo over the edge brought small smiles to their faces.

"Fufufufu he is something all right I wonder if he would be our Ashikabi. We would be even more feared with him on our side." The claw user laughed. While she may have said it jokingly she would admit that the idea didn't bug her in the least. 'He's quite attractive and very brutal.'

"What the hell are you talking about? There is no way I'm letting that orange haired monkey be my Ashikabi!" the petite puncher shouted.

"I agree with Benitsubasa I want to fight him not work with him. Anyway let's go we have to find her before Kurosaki or anyone else does. We have an advantage of being able to track her so let's move." With her piece said the older woman turned and made her exit with her subordinates in tow.

-With Ichigo-

He was cursing the stupid bastard he left at the tower. He had half a mind to go back and kick the shit out of him some more. The directions he received couldn't be any vaguer all they stated was that she was in the south east side of the capital. "That's a whole lot of area to cover. I'm going to need some help." He sighed out stopping on top an abandoned warehouse to make his call.

"Ichigo what the hell happened to just talking to him!?" the transcendent's first sekirei demanded.

"He was being an asshole, but we can talk about that later I need your help finding Inoue in the south east part of the city."

"Are you sure that's where she is?"

"Yeah, but that's all I have to go on."

"That's not good Ichigo, that areas right between two powerful Ashikabi and both will force her to join them if they can!"

"Fuck, please hurry up then I'm going to need your help, you know this city a lot better then me!"

"On my way sweetheart don't worry we'll find her first."

"Thanks Uzume"

Hanging up his phone he pushed himself faster in the direction he felt the closest energies. Ending his shunpo close enough to eavesdrop, but not be seen he monitored the people before him. It was a young brown haired teen, around fifteen he guessed, clutching his throat while trying to scream at a girl holding a scythe. Catching a little bit about letting an important asset get away he inwardly chuckled 'Even though she looks bright eyed and innocent, Inoue can be quite clever and elusive when she needs to be.' Even though he didn't know for sure, he had no doubts Orihime was the reason for the man clutching his throat. 'Tatsuki definitely taught her not to take shit from anyone that's for sure.' Deciding that he had a couple questions he needed answered he revealed himself to the couple.

"Oi, you two would have happened to see a bright haired girl with beautiful grey eyes around here have you?" Ichigo asked while walking towards them with his hands in his pockets looking as casual as he could.

"That's none of your damn business." The female replied taking a stance in front of the young man.

"Calm down Yomi, but she is right you know I have already called dibs on that sekirei." The brown haired teen drawled out.

"Huh, I didn't know calling dibs was part of the game. My understanding was first come first served." The visored replied casually. He wanted nothing more than to beat this little bastard to a pulp, but he could feel other sekirei hiding out of sight. He knew they were probably with the brat and a fight would slow him down.

"It's not but I was just giving you a fair warning so you don't unintentionally cross me…"

"Kurosaki Ichigo, and you are"

"Mikogami Hayato, as I was saying Kurosaki-San that sekirei is mine and I would advise you to stay out of my way."

"Sorry Mikogami-San but if I find her first I'm claiming her, so I'll see ya around." With a wave over his shoulder he began his search. 'Damn it I wish I could wring his scrawny neck right now'

"Should I cut him down for you Mikogami-Sama?" the scythe wielder inquired.

"No, attacking ashikabi is against the rules and breaking the rules is unacceptable Yomi. Besides he is heading in the wrong direction anyway." The wealthy young man reaffirmed while fixing his collar. "We are pulling back anyway Minaka sent a message to stop pursuit of her and please don't disappoint me again."

"Of course Mikogami-Sama I will not fail you again."

Waiting until he was in the cover of an alley way he jumped back to the rooftops to continue his search. 'Well at least I know she can handle herself, but Uzume was right these bastards have no morals. Next time she may not be so lucky. DAMN IT WHERE ARE YOU!' He was losing patience and his run in with that spoiled brat didn't give him any leads.

-With Orihime-

She was tired and dirty having slept in a park the night before. 'I really wish I had my purse on me, I can't remember anyone's phone number this is the exact reason I wrote them all down.' Abandoning riding on her golden shield to blend in she began her search for Ichigo. Right now wasn't the first time she hated the fact that he couldn't be sensed anymore. Before the war she would reach out her senses and take comfort in his heavy reiatsu that hung over Karakura like a blanket. It always gave off a feeling of security and when he was near it seemed to wrap around her in a protective cocoon. Not only did she have to sleep on the ground, but men had been chasing her all morning. She may be very naïve at times, but she was far from stupid. Their intentions were clear as day to her, they wanted to claim her as their own and she would be damned if she let anyone but Ichigo have that honor. So she fought off the advances of other Sekirei trying to subdue her. She didn't defeat any of them, but she always made an opening for herself to escape.

The first one to attack her was a girl around her age with brown hair and eyes, wearing a black gown with matching gloves and stockings. She also had a red ribbon tied around her neck and wielded a scythe. 'Yomi is what she said her name was and she also stated that her master was someone named Hayato Mikogami. He must have been that scrawny teenager that tried to kiss me before I got away.' She recounted absolutely disgusted with his actions. He explained that this was only a game to him and that she would be a very important piece in winning it. 'I'm not some damn toy, I don't even feel bad for chopping him in the throat.'

Her self-defense training with Tatsuki had definitely paid off, the spoiled brat didn't even see it coming. One second he was about to add another member to his collection and the next he was on the ground gasping for air watching his trophy fly away on a shield.

Taking off through a park to try and use it as some cover from her pursuers she instantly stopped when a voice called out behind her.

"You should really stop running around like this. Higa-sama has ordered me to bring you to him and I rather not be punished for accidentally killing you!" Warned a short black haired woman. "I am number 18 Ichiya and I will kill you if you make me."

Quickly turning to get a better look at the person trying to capture her is when Orihime took in her next opponent's appearance. She was wearing a purple, yellow, and black outfit that wrapped around her and held together by a small metal ring right below her breast. Portions of her midriff, her sides, her arms, even the outer portions of her thighs were exposed, while the rest was checkered back and forth with purple and yellow. She had long black thigh high boots and short black gloves. Her hair was less than an inch long, framing her skull closely.

"I am number 90 Orihime and I refuse to be winged by someone who is not my true Ashikabi!" the defiant auburn haired girl declared. 'I don't see a weapon maybe she is a close range fighter. I got to be careful though that Yomi girl could create a wind like attack by swinging her scythe.' Keeping a constant visual trying to detect any hints at which way her opponent would move the young adult waited.

"As you wish I just hope you don't die by accident!" the spikey haired woman sneered as she charged her opponent before leaping in the air bringing down her leg in an axe kick.

No longer needing an incantation to summon her powers the busty teen placed her shield directly over her. She almost squeaked in surprise when it cracked. Watching the cracks spread she knew it wouldn't hold much longer so she rolled to the side to avoid the attack.

"Well that was an impressive technique, but being un-emerged leaves you vulnerable to someone like me. Your strength is nowhere near its potential yet, so just give up."

Deciding not to banter she fired of her Koten Zanshun scoring a glancing hit as the older woman jumped in the air. Even though it wasn't a direct hit it left a nasty gash in her leg, infuriating the other sekirei. Right now she was thrilled that she agreed to all the hand to hand combat training, the older woman was leaving her in constant defense mode. Seeing an opening she delivered a swift palm strike stunning her opponent slightly. After the successful hit her confidence was on the rise she high kicked at her foe, only to have her foot grabbed. Using her leg as leverage the older woman flung Inoue over her shoulder slamming her into the ground.

Wincing when she landed, she barely had enough time to evade before a foot slammed into where she previously occupied cratering the ground. Back on her feet she was once again ducking and weaving through the seemingly endless onslaught. Receiving a nasty kick to the side sent her rolling into a tree. Running out of steam she could clearly tell she was out matched. 'I can't give up' with the last of her strength she tried to tackle her attacker to the ground. Sprawling on her stomach in the grass after a nasty elbow between her shoulder blades when her opponent blocked her last ditch effort, is when the cold reality started to set in. 'I wasn't good enough' she didn't even have the energy to resist when she was hoisted over the victors shoulder and they began to leave the park.

"Well you sure are a feisty one aren't you Orihime." A familiar voice cut through the air stopping the victorious woman from leaving with her prize.

Cracking an eye open to see her savior she was shocked to see that it was none other Karasuba and two others that she didn't recognize.

"Karasuba-Chan what are you doing here?" the dazed teen asked

"Hahaha why else would I be here, to make sure you don't get in trouble. I can see that I'm a little late though, but no matter you put her down and I might let you walk out of here in one piece." The hound commanded as she dropped her hand to the hilt of her sword.

"The discipline squad why are you interfering? I won fair and square she belongs to Higa-sama now." The terrified 18th questioned. Taking on a weakling was one thing, but taking on the whole discipline squad was another.

"Apparently you didn't get the message about not touching that particular sekirei. If you want to persist you can be my next victim, it doesn't matter to me either way. Right Kara-Sama?" the aggressive pink haired puncher stated.

"Hey Benitsubasa why do you get to have the fun? If I knew you were going to act like this I would've stayed home and watched my shows." The blue sekirei complained pointing an accusatory claw at her teammate.

"Don't be a baby we can work together if you want." The accused returned with a predatory smile.

Breaking up their argument was another sekirei who landed beside the discipline squad's next victim. She was a tall woman with long dark green hair and blue eyes. She was wearing a blue and white tight belly-top, revealing quite a bit of cleavage, which displayed the Sekirei Crest on her left breast. Dark long gloves, stockings held by a garter over her bloomers and thigh length boots.

"Toyotama what the hell is going on here!?" The bewildered spikey haired woman shrieked.

"Let her go Ichiya, we don't want a fight with them besides Higa-Sama received a message to quit pursuing this one." The blue eyed woman calmly stated.

After dropping her prize unceremoniously to the ground she took off in a dead run with her sister sekirei. There wasn't going to be another fight, especially not with them if she could help it. Pride be damned it was too early in the game for her to be taken out in her opinion.

Blue and Red were all set to give chase, both looking like lionesses getting ready to track down a group of gazelles.

"Don't even think about it you two, there's no need to kill those weaklings." Shifting her eyes to the young girl on the ground she continued. "Heal yourself you are to be delivered unharmed and I can't drop you off looking like that."

"Where are you taking me to? Back to MBI?" The gentle healer inquired as she was enveloped in her golden dome.

"Stop asking ques… holy shit that's amazing!" the pinkette exclaimed after witnessing the rejection phenomenon take effect.

"It is isn't it?" The black sekirei asked before turning back to the girl in the bubble. "To answer your question we are dropping you off where we believe your friend Kurosaki-San is staying."

Instantly perking up at that information she couldn't help the smile that crossed her face. She couldn't believe the luck that she seemed to always come across.

"Thank you Karasuba-Chan."

"Please don't address me that way, either use San or Sama, but not Chan. One I'm not a child and two we're not that close. Also there is no need to thank me the president is doing this to end your protectors rampage." The older woman clarified.

"Rampage?" the quicksilver eyed teen asked with her head tilted to the side in confusion.

"Fufufu yes rampage, your friend nearly beat Minaka to death this morning when he broke into MBI looking for you." The female with disheveled gray hair chortled out. She was definitely going to burn a copy of that beating when she got home.

Orihime couldn't help but face palm at that piece of information. She knew Ichigo had a quick fuse, but the last few years he had been doing so much better at controlling his temper. Attacking the president of a major corporation was something she would never had seen coming in a million years.

"Sorry about the trouble he caused, Kurosaki-Kun can be very mean when he needs to be." The young adult apologized clasping her hands in front of her and bowing her head slightly.

Waving off her apologies she just motioned for her to follow them as they made their way to the north side of town.

-With Uzume-

Leaping across rooftops as fast as she could in full battle attire the 10th had to admit she was nervous, she only prayed that they found Orihime before anyone else. After seeing how far Ichigo was willing to go for the beautiful girl she feared for anyone that had the balls to lay a hand on her. She also knew that he had a lot of explaining to do with Miya. She had never seen Miya look so down right pissed before and frankly it scared the shit out of her, Matsu, and Kagari. When she received a call from him to join in the search, Miya flat out glared at her. Without a seconds notice she was out the door as fast as she could. This was exactly what she wanted to avoid when he dashed off to MBI by himself.

She mentally kicked herself for not going with him to try and keep the situation from exploding. More than anything she felt responsible for it 'If I hadn't called him he wouldn't have lost his cool, but there was no way I could keep that secret from him.' The brunette slightly shivered imagining if she hadn't told him and he found out. 'I really don't know who's scarier him or Miya.' Catching a streak of orange out of the corner of her eye she followed it knowing exactly who the owner of that unruly mop was.

"Ichigo!" The slightly winded woman called out.

Stopping at the call of his name the transcendent searched for the owner of the voice. Locking on to Uzume he couldn't help, but be floored by her outfit. She was wearing pure white silk, barely covering her modesty along with her limbs and a long white veil which seemed to flutter around her body.

Catching the slight pink on her ashikabi's face made a matching one show up on her own. She knew the outfit she battled in was extremely revealing, but she always justified that it was easy to move in.

"Hey any sign of her yet?" she asked slightly tugging at her bottoms feeling slightly exposed all of a sudden.

"Y-yeah um I caught up with an ashikabi and sekirei that tried to wing her, but she managed to fight them off and get away." He replied rubbing the back of his neck in slight embarrassment for being caught looking. "That outfit by the way… wow."

"Well I'm glad she managed to get away, she must be pretty tough to fight off an emerged sekirei."

Uzume replied with a smile on her face, glad that her ashikabi found her appealing.

"Yeah she can be pretty tough when she wants to be, kind of reminds me of an angry kitten though." He smiled as his eyes glazed over while thinking of Orihime putting on her 'tough' face.

"You really do love her don't you?" she had to ask all the signs were there. The way he always spoke so fondly of her, the extreme lengths he would go to for her, and distant look he would get when thinking of her.

"O-of course she's a really close friend of mine!" he replied a little too quickly. 'Am I in love with her?'

"You don't have to deny it Ichigo I can see the telltale signs of it." She spoke quietly with her head down her veil concealing her face from view. "Just so you know I wouldn't mind sharing you with her, I don't like it but I know it would make you happy."

"I doubt I'm the one she wants Uzume, after all we've been friends for years and nothing has ever happened." He stated walking up to her gently raising her chin with his thumb and fore finger.

Looking in his eyes she was mesmerized, this was the side of him that she wished Miya could see. The gentle, kind, and caring side that he tends to hide from people.

"I wouldn't sell yourself short just yet Ichigo, she would have to be blind not to see you for who you are."

"If I didn't know any better I would think you are trying to get us together." He stated quirking a brow at her.

"Maybe I am, I know she would make you happy and any sekirei would be lucky to have you as an ashikabi." The silk clad woman stated walking to the edge of the building they were standing on. "Don't misunderstand me though, I am giving you permission to wing her. Try to wing anyone else and I may cut your balls off." With that she jumped of the side to continue her search.

'Just great that's all I need right now.' Shaking his head he smiled at his possessive sekirei's antics and followed after her.

-Izumo Inn-

To say that Miya was pissed off would be a severe understatement. 'I told him not to cause trouble for us here and what does he do. He goes and hangs the damn president of MBI off of a building.' Apart of her enjoyed it more than she would like to admit, the same part wished that she was in his place at the moment. Trying to calm herself down she kneeled in front of a small shrine erected for her late husband Asama Takehito. "What should I do Takehito? I know you would never turn someone away that was in need, but this man is very dangerous. I don't know if I can trust him, but his actions seem to be driven solely by love for a sekirei. It's times like this that I truly miss your guidance."

"I think Takehito would hear his side of the story before passing judgment on him." came the soft voice of Maison Izumo's recluse Matsu.

"You really think he deserves it for the stunt he pulled. If Minaka found out it was you that helped him we would be swarmed with MBI agents." The purple haired woman retorted her voice gaining a steely edge to it.

"Yes I do, plus Minaka would never be able to trace what I did, which was barely anything at all." The red head replied with the upmost confidence.

"Maybe your right Matsu, but I still don't like the vibe he gives off."

"I'm assuming the nothingness and feeling of impending death." She answered back easily, she was unnerved by his presence herself. 'For Uzume's sake though I will try and convince Miya.'

"Yeah that would be it, ho…" being cut off by a knock at the door she motioned for Matsu to return to her room. She knew the energy signature of the person on the other side of the door. She couldn't say that she was surprised 'I knew I was right about him not even six hours here and the discipline squad is at my home.' Idly she wondered if she should grab her sword and give her guest a proper welcoming. Slowly padding down the hall she made her way to the front door. Blowing out a breath to calm herself she opened the door with an incredibly fake smile.

"Karasuba it's been a long time. I'm pretty sure that I told you to never come to my home again." She welcomed in a disturbingly sweet voice.

"Of course I remember very well Miya, you're looking well after all these years." The black sekirei answered back with just as much fake cheer.

"If you remember can I ask what brings you here." The former team leader asked opening her eyes reveling them to be cold as ice.

The four at the door couldn't help the icy shiver that shot down their spines. 'Scary' was the general consensus of the group.

"Now don't be like that I came with a peace offering for Kurosaki Ichigo, this is Inoue Orihime. This visit has nothing to do with me and you." Came the calm reply from Karasuba

"Oh and how do you know he lives here?"

"Just a hunch we know that his Sekirei is living here, so we took a long shot."

The young peace offerings eyes snapped wide open at that comment. 'Oh no I'm already too late someone has already claimed Kurosaki-Kun!' Noticing the girls growing despair caused Karasuba to roll her eyes and nudge the young woman with her elbow. She had to make sure that this girl got winged by him, she was her key to a great fight after all.

"What are you moping about it's possible for ashikabi to have more than one sekirei you know. Honestly did you even listen to Minaka's explanation or did you zone out."

"Heh heh I may have zoned out after he explained how sekirei are winged." The auburn haired healer replied scratching the back of her head sheepishly.

"Uhm." Miya cleared her throat rather loudly to get them back on track, gaining their attention she continued. "Well you guessed right, but what does Minaka want with Kurosaki-San."

"Hahaha to be honest absolutely nothing!" the blue sekirei burst out she couldn't help it, catching her superior's glare she brought her hands to her mouth and walked away to wait on the sidewalk.

"Well that wasn't the way I was going to put it, but it's the truth. All he wants to do is have a conversation preferably over the phone this time."

'Ahahahahahaha' realizing that Haihane was still in earshot after hearing her outburst again from the sidewalk. She pinched the bridge of her nose in irritation.

"Benitsubasa can you please go make Haihane be quiet"

"Sure thing Kara-Sama." The Red Sekirei stated before taking off after her team mate. She was glad for the reprieve she was also having a hard time not laughing at the comment.

"Fine, she can wait here until he comes back and make sure this is the last time you set foot on my property Karasuba." The land lady warned again with her fake cheery voice.

Waving off the threat Karasuba took her leave.

-Inside Izumo Inn-

"Please take a seat while I go make us some tea Inoue-San." The purple haired woman offered politely.

Beaming at her generous offer she was about to thank her when her stomach interrupted her.

'Grrrrrrr'

"Oh my it seems that I should fix you a sandwich too." Number 01 quickly amended her original offer hiding a giggle behind her hand.

Taken aback by the woman's sudden change in demeanor she had to chalk it up to the absence of Karasuba's presence.

"Thank you Miya-San I haven't eaten all day, but I don't want to be any trouble for you."

"Oh it's no trouble, but if you want you can pay me back by helping understand Kurosaki-San a little bit." The older woman bargained. She didn't like this type of tactic, but she really wanted information on her questionable tenant.

"O-okay but I'm not sure how much I can answer about him."

"Anything you answer will be fine Inoue-San.'

Walking into the kitchen to prepare a meal for her guest, she let her mind drift a bit. 'She seems to be really innocent I wonder how she got caught up with a brute like Kurosaki.' Hearing a ceiling tile slide out of place she looked up.

"Are you sure about this Miya? This could be a ploy by MBI, to get a mole in our home." The tech-wiz warned.

"I don't think that is what's going on Matsu, but I won't deny that it is a possibility. She seems genuinely innocent and I remember when her adjuster ran away with her. Ueda-San truly loved number 90 as his own flesh and blood, when he learned of the sekirei plan he escaped to keep her away from it. I remember Takehito being so proud of him for doing it. So I will help her for both of their sakes even if it is keeping her away from those monsters Kurosaki and Minaka." She finished solemnly

"Please give Ichigo a chance for Orihime and Uzume. I know he made a bad first impression, but a man willing to take on MBI all by himself for the safety of another can't be all bad right?" she pleaded

"…"

"Miya"

"I will try I won't promise anything else."

Walking back in the dining room with a plate and cup in her hand, she eyed the young woman who seemed to be deep in thought. Catching her eye she instantly found herself returning the smile the younger female had given her. 'I don't think it's possible to fake a smile that warm.' Miya thought as she set the food and drink in front of her.

"Thank you Miya-San or is it Asama-San. I'm not sure which one you prefer. I'm so sorry for being so forward and not asking before?" the warm hearted girl nervously rambled.

"Either is fine really." Miya giggled 'she is very sweet. Ueda-San must have raised her really well.'

"Okay Miya-San, please call me Orihime then it's only fair after all."

Miya was impressed with the gusto at which the young girl demolished the sandwich and tea.

"My you must have been really hungry Orihime"

"Heh heh yeah I haven't eaten since yesterday, sorry if I offended you."

"It's fine really" the older woman reassured. "But it's your turn to uphold your end of the deal. What kind of man is Kurosaki-San?"

"Hmm let's see, Kurosaki-Kun at first glance seems to come off as cold, uncaring, and indifferent to those around him. Most people in high school considered him a delinquent because they assumed he dyed his hair orange and the fact he used to get in a lot of fights. He never started the fights though, a lot of people attacked him because he was really strong. He may not act like it all the time but he's really smart and kept high grades all through high school. He's even studying medicine because he wants to help others like his father does. On the inside he is really caring and kind hearted, he always goes out of his way to help others when they're in need." She paused to take a breather talking about Ichigo came natural to her it was her favorite subject after all. "I can't even count how many times he has saved mine and our friend's lives. He is a natural born protector like his name sake suggests, if he has to he would put his life on the line to make sure his family and friends are safe."

Hearing the truth and conviction in her voice, she had to admit Ichigo had made quite the impression on the young sekirei.

"Have you ever reacted to him you know he is an ashikabi?" Seeing her blush and nod her head yes she continued. "How long have you been reacting to him?"

Putting a finger to her chin in thought she answered back.

"Well maybe four years give or take, it was always really confusing and I didn't know what was happening to my body. I almost kissed him when he was sleeping once, but I managed to hold back I didn't want to steal his first kiss." She blushed heavily after revealing the last part Tatsuki was the only one she had ever told about that.

'Wow this poor girl that must have been torture on her. Especially having no clue what she truly was.'

"That must have been incredibly painful for you. Can you tell me what Ichigo is though, I know he is an ashikabi but he is not exactly a human. It doesn't make sense he can't be an ashikabi if he's not human, but no human can move at speeds that he does or have completely no energy signature." She finally asked her real question after trying to draw her into a sense of security.

"I will answer you if tell me what you are. You don't exactly strike me as normal either Miya-San." The young adult narrowed her eyes at the woman across from her. MBI asked a lot of these same questions and she wouldn't put it past them to do this to get their answers.

"What do you mean by that?" the land lady challenged returning the slight glare.

"Well you have an intimate knowledge of Sekirei and Ashikabi. So either A. you're working for MBI to get answers from me or B. you are also a Sekirei." She answered holding up her hand raising fingers as she listed of her options.

"Wow that is impressively perceptive of you, but I assure you what you seen at the door between me and Karasuba was no act. I absolutely loathe MBI. You are correct with your second assumption I am Sekirei number 01 Miya, but I will warn you to keep that information to yourself."

Detecting no hints of deception she decided to give a little guarded information of her own.

"It's not that Kurosaki-Kun doesn't give off any energy, his power is at a level that no one can comprehend it. Do you think we could call him I'm kind of anxious to see him."

"Let me go see if I can find a way to contact him." She mechanically replied.

Standing up and leaving the room she tried to comprehend the information she had just been given. 'That can't be right. I know for a fact that no one can sense me unless I let them. Can he really be on a higher level then me?' so caught up in thought she didn't realize that her feet had already taken her to Matsu's door.

"M-Miya are you okay?" the strategist stuttered out.

"Yeah I'm fine. Do you think you can contact Uzume and Kurosaki-San for her?"

"I've been trying since she showed up, but Uzume must not have her phone on her. Maybe he has an address book in that bag Uzume took to her room earlier. We might find a way to contact him through that." Matsu mused aloud.

Turning on her heal Miya headed for Uzume's room. Normally she would never consider going through someone's personal belongings, but this situation was far from normal. Returning to the dining room with the bag in hand Miya set it down in front of the young healer.

"I couldn't find a number for him, but maybe he has an address book with some numbers you could call. I don't want to go through his belongings, but you being a close friend of his, along with the situation we are in I'm making an exception." The older miko explained.

Opening the bag with shaky hands the shield user's eyes sparkled with excitement at the first thing she laid her eyes on. Sitting innocently in the front pocket of the bag was a cell phone that looked exactly like her old one. Flipping it open she mentally cheered when she noticed that Urahara had put all her contacts in this one.

"I take it you found something useful." Miya stated eyeing the strange looking cell phone.

Orihime didn't bother to respond just gave a simple nod of her head. She scrolled through her contacts list before she found the one she was looking for. With her heart hammering an erratic beat and her hands shaking slightly she hit the call button and brought the mobile device to her ear. Each ring seemed like a lifetime to the young woman. Finally after five rings it connected.

"K-Kurosaki-kun where are you?"

A/N: Whew two chapters in three days not too bad. Thanks to all that have reviewed, Faved and, followed. To my reviewers you guys have no idea how much you help spur my imagination and help me pump these chapters out. Hope you guys enjoyed the chapter.