Chapter 2: Slowly figuring things out

A/N- the purpose of this chapter is to expand on the happenings of the world koby slowly learning more and also adding a new face, Ikki who is a one manga panel character.

Koby reclined on the mat, his mind finally able to unwind after the day's unexpected events. He turned his attention to Musubi, feeling a sense of responsibility for her well-being.

"Miss Musubi," he began in his characteristically polite manner, "I believe it would be wise for both of us to prepare for rest. It has indeed been a long day, and we should be ready to face whatever this world has in store for us tomorrow. I'll take the opportunity to freshen up in the bath. Once I'm done, I'll knock on the door to let you know, and you can then enter."

With those words, Koby carefully rose from the mat, making sure to be respectful of Musubi's presence. He understood the importance of maintaining a sense of decorum even in unfamiliar circumstances. With a nod towards Musubi, he took his leave to prepare for a well-deserved night's rest.

Koby eased himself into the small but inviting bath, the warm water soothing his tired muscles. As he washed up, he couldn't help but reflect on the peculiar circumstances that had brought him here.

His thoughts revolved around Musubi, a striking woman who was now under his protection, and who, in turn, wished to safeguard him. It was a unique bond, one he hadn't encountered before. The weight of this newfound responsibility mingled with the uncertainty of his situation.

With no job, in a world he barely understood, Koby knew he had a challenging road ahead. However, he was not one to shy away from hard work. Determination coursed through him, bolstering his resolve. He was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, confident in his ability to rise to the occasion.

Koby efficiently concluded his bath, mindful of conserving the warm water for Musubi's use. After drying off, he swiftly dressed in his under shorts and shirt, meticulously folding his uniform and placing it under his arm.

Approaching the door of his dorm, he maintained his considerate demeanor. "Musubi," he called out in a soft and respectful tone, "I've finished with the bath. It's your turn now," he announced, ensuring she knew it was her time to use the facilities.

Koby patiently waited by the door, and soon enough, he spotted Musubi poking her head out with a warm smile before gracefully making her way to the bathroom.

With her in the bathroom, Koby entered the room, handling his uniform with care as he placed it neatly. Then, he settled down on the mat, listening to the sound of the water starting to drain from the bath.

As Koby lay there, he couldn't help but overhear a conversation between Miya and Musubi outside the room. The discussion centered around the necessity of night clothes, with Miya insisting rather loudly that Musubi should wear something appropriate for the night.

Koby couldn't help but smile to himself. Musubi's uniqueness was becoming increasingly apparent to him. She was unlike anyone he had ever encountered before.

His attention was drawn away from his thoughts as the door swung open, revealing Musubi wearing an oversized shirt. She made her way over to him and settled down once more beside him. Koby welcomed her presence with a soft smile, appreciating the comfort and camaraderie they were building in this unfamiliar world.

Koby couldn't help but appreciate this tender moment, a genuine smile gracing his lips. He cherished the closeness he shared with Musubi, even if he was careful not to dwell on the placement of his left arm, which rested naturally around her as she leaned against his left shoulder, her arm gently encircling his chest. Words were unnecessary between them as the serenity of the room enveloped them both.

The tranquility of the moment gradually lulled Koby into a peaceful slumber, and Musubi, his new partner, was right there beside him, sharing in the calm and the promise of the new day that awaited them together.

As Koby drifted off into slumber, Musubi's gaze softened as she looked upon her Ashikabi's face. Her fingers traced the noticeable wound on his visage, a testament to his strength and resilience. He never ceased to amaze her, and just being near him made her heart race with admiration and affection.

Returning her hand to his chest, she held him with a firm and protective grasp, finding solace in their connection. With a contented sigh, Musubi, too, succumbed to the embrace of sleep, her heart and spirit intertwined with Koby's as they rested side by side.

The next morning, as Koby gradually stirred awake, he discovered Musubi still nestled against his side. Her presence brought a sense of comfort and continuity to the new world they were navigating together.

Seeing her begin to wake as well, Koby turned his head and greeted her with a warm smile. "Good morning, Musubi," he offered, his voice filled with genuine affection and kindness, starting their day on a positive note.

Musubi, her eyes brightening with the morning light, returned Koby's smile with equal warmth. "Good morning, Koby," she replied, her voice filled with enthusiasm and happiness.

"Well, Musubi," Koby gently informed her, his voice filled with consideration, "I think it's time for us to get up." He carefully slipped out of her grasp, making sure not to disturb her rest, and rose to his feet.

Koby spotted a set of clothes left for both of them by Miya, along with a note indicating they were old but available for their use. He picked up his set and turned toward Musubi. "I'll change in the bath," he suggested, "and you can change in here. Let's meet in the dining room afterward." His instructions were clear, designed to make their morning routine as smooth as possible in their new surroundings.

Koby entered the room and proceeded to change into the provided simple blue jeans and a black shirt. Unlike his marine captain's uniform, this attire did little to conceal the well-toned physique he had developed over years of rigorous training and hard work, a testament to his dedication.

Once dressed, he made his way to the dining room, ready to have breakfast and eager to meet Musubi there, looking forward to the day ahead.

As Koby made his way to the dining room, he was pleasantly surprised to find Miya already awake and a delicious breakfast prepared for the three of them. The aroma of the food was inviting, and he couldn't help but appreciate her hospitality.

However, what truly caught his attention was Musubi, who had donned slightly different clothes while her own were being washed. Koby looked up in mild awe at the sight of her, appreciating the subtle change in her appearance. It seemed Musubi had a similar reaction to his own attire.

Miya, amused by the slight awkwardness between the two, chuckled softly, breaking the ice with her light-hearted demeanor. It was a moment of shared understanding and camaraderie that made the breakfast table feel warm and welcoming.

Koby looked at Musubi with a hint of awe in his eyes, admiring her change in attire. "Musubi, you look great in those clothes," he complimented her, a warm smile gracing his lips.

Musubi blushed slightly at the compliment, returning his smile. "Thank you, Koby. It feels nice to wear something different for a change."

Miya, sensing the gentle exchange between the two, couldn't help but interject with a chuckle. "Well, it seems like we're all getting used to this new routine. Let's sit down and enjoy breakfast together." Her words eased the tension, and they settled at the table, ready to share a meal as newfound friends in this unfamiliar world.

Musubi entered the room and approached Koby, holding out his glasses with a gentle smile. Koby accepted them with gratitude, carefully putting them on, his vision instantly sharpening. She then settled herself right next to him at the table.

Curiosity burning within him, Koby turned to Miya. "Miya, do you happen to know anything about Ashikabi and Sekirei?" he inquired, his tone tinged with genuine interest. "I've never heard of them before, and I'm trying to understand what this world is about."

Miya, sipping her tea, nodded thoughtfully. "Of course, Koby. Ashikabi are individuals with a special connection to Sekirei, like Musubi here," she explained, gesturing to Musubi with a nod. "Sekirei are powerful beings with unique abilities, and they form bonds with Ashikabi. These bonds are said to be unbreakable, and Ashikabi provide guidance and protection to their Sekirei."

Koby absorbed this information, his expression contemplative. It was a lot to take in, but he was determined to understand this new reality they found themselves in. Musubi, sitting beside him, offered a reassuring smile, her presence a source of comfort in this unfamiliar world.

Koby nodded in acknowledgment of the bond he could already sense between himself and Musubi. It was a connection that felt unbreakable, and he was determined to protect and support her to the best of his abilities.

"Thank you for the information, Miss Miya," he expressed his gratitude softly as he accepted the paper with job listings. He scanned through the work section and noticed a temporary construction job that seemed suitable for him. "Construction," he mused to himself, confident that he could handle such work.

Turning his attention back to Miya, he made a polite request, "Miss Miya, would you mind keeping an eye on my Musubi here while I'm out working?" Koby wanted to ensure Musubi's safety and well-being in his absence, trusting Miya to look out for her.

Miya nodded with a reassuring smile. "Of course, Koby," she replied warmly. "I'll make sure Musubi is well taken care of while you're at work. You can count on me."

Musubi, sitting beside Koby, gave him a nod of agreement, her eyes filled with trust and understanding. She knew Koby's dedication and hard work were for their future, and she was more than willing to wait for his return.

Koby scrutinized the tall, curvaceous woman before him, her two kodachi at her sides, as she locked eyes with him. She wasted no time with pleasantries and went straight to the point.

"You're an Ashikabi, right?" she asked directly, seeking a straightforward answer.

Koby nodded, his tone humble and honest. "Yes, but my name is Koby. I'm new here, and I just found out about being an Ashikabi yesterday."

Ikki, the striking woman in front of him, smiled contentedly, visibly relieved by his response. "Well, Koby, I'm Ikki. I must say, you're quite impressive. The way you fought was something else."

Koby, feeling a bit bashful but appreciative of the compliment, rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, thanks, I think. I'm sure you're pretty strong too," he replied in his typically humble manner.

There was a hint of seriousness in Karasuba's eyes as she continued, "I am a Sekirei, and I am drawn to strong Ashikabi. I have a proposition for you, Koby." Her words carried a weight of significance, and Koby's curiosity was piqued as he awaited her proposition.

Ikki regarded Koby with a thoughtful gaze, considering that as a newcomer, he might not be fully aware of the intricacies and rules of the Sekirei world. She understood the importance of having a strong team of Sekirei and how an Ashikabi played a crucial role in that dynamic. Her cheeks tinged with a slight blush as she decided to take a bold step.

"I have something for you, then," she said, reaching for her card. "It will help you understand the world you're in," she added, leaning closer to hand him the card. Koby sensed no hostility from her, so he wasn't prepared for what happened next.

As she went to hand him the card, her lips suddenly pressed firmly against his, catching him by surprise. "Blade of my contract, cut through the darkness around my Ashikabi," she murmured, and Koby felt a surge of energy pass between them. When she pulled away, she looked up at him with a warm smile.

"I'm sorry," she apologized sincerely. "I didn't mean to cause problems. I just had to find a strong Ashikabi to work with."

Koby, still a bit taken aback by the unexpected kiss, managed a nod and a small, understanding smile. "It's alright, Ikki. I'm still trying to figure all of this out myself." Despite the surprise, he couldn't help but sense that there was something unique about this connection, and he was open to exploring it further.

"I'm about to head home, and I guess you can come with me then," Koby offered, feeling her arm around his, the affection she showed becoming rather evident. He appreciated the company and was curious to learn more about the Sekirei world.

As they walked together, he couldn't help but voice his concerns. "So, um, what can you tell me about Sekirei? Is my other one going to be mad about all this?" He wondered if Musubi would be upset that he had been tricked into having two Sekirei.

Ikki reassured him with a gentle smile. "Oh, it's fine. We work as teams. An Ashikabi with just one girl can run into problems when they encounter strong teams with lots of strong girls. Plus, you don't seem like a bad guy at all. I feel I can trust you, no, I know I can," she replied softly. "Oh, by the way, I am Sekirei number 19."

Koby nodded in understanding, grateful for her explanation and her willingness to accept him as her Ashikabi. "Thank you, Ikki. I appreciate your trust and understanding," he said sincerely as he walked home with her.

Miya warmly accepted the money from Koby and smiled at him. "Thank you, Koby. Your contributions are greatly appreciated."

As Koby introduced Ikki, Miya nodded in acknowledgement and greeted her with a polite nod. "Welcome to the inn, Ikki. I hope you find your stay here comfortable."

Ikki responded with gratitude, her tone sincere. "Thank you for your hospitality, Miya."

Musubi, who had joined them, was excited to meet another Sekirei. She beamed at Ikki and extended her hand. "Hi there, I'm Musubi! It's nice to meet you!"

Ikki shook Musubi's hand with a warm smile. "Hello, Musubi. I'm Ikki. I'm sure we'll get along just fine."

Miya observed the interaction between the three of them and couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. It seemed that Koby's presence had brought a positive change to her inn, and she was pleased to see the Sekirei forming bonds so quickly.