IS and Sekirei Brave new world

by Kerlongsj Evert Orlejov

Request fic. Minato believed that when the Sekirei plan came to an end, his troubles would be over and his life could finally begin. Turns out, the world moves on, boy. Best you do too. His past, among others, is catching up to him and he has to look out for an old friend. Ichika Orimura didn't ask to be sent into an insane school and his single lifeline is an old friend.

19. Blood Brothers

Well, we're now in the 19th chapter of this fic. Never thought. I won't write a promise, but this chapter can be significant.

I never thought that we'd get here, and well, this chapter will be one ride.

This is mostly inspired by Thomas Zwijsen and his Nylon Maiden Album.

You get no guesses why I would call this chapter this. We got here fast, though. I should turn on my desktop more often.

This is the reply to MasterKill712. Again, you were here quick. Thanks for that. I also saw you putting this on your favorite page when I was writing this chapter. Thank you.

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Thanks for the review on the last chapter.

With the chapter on seeing each other again, that was some fun to write out. With Kusano's interaction, she was the only one. And well, the boys hadn't seen each other in years.

It was just fun. And some peace and quiet. How will that be interrupted? As for getting to know Minato. I don't think that they'll ever learn. They're not smart, and they don't learn from their mistakes.

And I don't want to get rid of you. I want to keep you around cause reviews like yours are fun to get.

Thank you for the compliment.

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Started on 29/06/2020

Ended on 13/07/2020

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Also, there is a slight change now with the document for a few changes.

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We're blood brothers,
we're blood brothers
We're blood brothers,
we're blood brothers

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Minato stood with his hands on the shoulder of his brother, and he turned to the Sekirei. His older sisters-in-law to some degree. Ichika's smile was soft while he greeted the girls.

The idea that women looked at him differently than an animal in the zoo was refreshing. The girls had a natural smile on him.

"Minato."

"Could you please introduce us formally to Ichika Orimura?" The Ashikabi smiled at him and nodded.

"Sure thing. Please line up outside." The girls smiled as they walked in the garden while Minato followed them with Kusano on his hip.

"This is Musubi." The Miko cooed while Minato put his hand on her shoulder. "She winged me and was the start of this." Bowing to Ichika, she smiled at him. Ichika gave one bow back.

"Happy to meet you, Ichika. I hope we can become good friends. I want to spar with you soon." That natural smile put Ichika at ease.

"I am sure/ we will, Musubi. I do hope that we can do that as well." Ichika told her while Minato gave her an uneasy smile. "Musubi, take it easy on him. He is a human being." She smiled eagerly while Ichika gave her a grin back. It was going to be fun.

"I will, Minato. Don't worry." He moved on a blonde woman who had her arms crossed and had a stern look at her face.

"This is Tsukiumi. She was my fourth Sekirei." Ichika bowed to her. "Hello."

"And I am also Minato's wife." Before the girls could speak up, Minato stopped that.

"Tsukiumi, we aren't playing that game. Greet yourself properly." The Waterdere just sighed and bowed to Ichika.

"I am Tsukiumi, Sekirei Number 9. Nice to meet you, Ichika Orimura."

"Hello, Tsukiumi. I'll be in your care." Ichika told the woman. A light grin set in, and he looked to the bespectacled girl in braids.

"Good morning, my cyber guardian angel." Matsu smiled at Ichika while she ruffled his hair. He returned her soft smile with a grin.

"Good morning, Ichika. You certainly gave me a lot of work in the last few months."

"Sorry about that. I really owe you." Ichika answered with a smile, and Matsu just shook her head while she shrugged on that.

"Don't worry too much. We, Sekirei, like a challenge every once in a while. So I would say that you continue like this." Ichika was sure that he liked her.

"Thank you, Matsu. If I ever can do something for you or any of you, just let me know." The next woman was someone that would take a man's breath away.

"Hello, little brother." Ichika was taken away by the beauty of Kazehana. His face was glued to her beautiful eyes, and he smiled at her.

"You must be Kazehana, right?" The Wind Flower nodded at him while she ruffled his hair. "Good guess. Why do you think so?"

"You picked up the call after Bodewig went berserk. I remember your voice." Ichika admitted that honesty was the best policy when he looked at Kazehana. She was one woman, and he found that he liked her style.

"Well, that's a good thing. Should I worry about Minato's jealousy?" Ichika shared a look with the Ashikabi, and both shook their head. "No, I don't think you have to. I'll be in your care, Kazehana."

An infectious grin shined at Ichika.

"Good to know. At least, it means that we don't worry about clothing." Turning to the brunette, he raised an eyebrow.

"Do you go naked? Or something like that. I would be bothered by that." Minato snorted when he heard his little brother talking. Like Miya would allow that.

"This is Uzume, my well, seventh, Sekirei."

"And also my Sekirei." The honey blonde woman came into view. Chiho was shorter than both males, so Ichika could only look up and down. She was a pretty woman, as well. Her eyes twinkled when the Ashikabi bowed to Ichika.

"I heard of it. You two broke a lot of stuff. You must be Uzume and Chiho Hidaka, right?" The two nodded while Ichika was now greeted by them all.

"Indeed, we are. And we're also part of Minato's flock." The pilot looked with a raised brow to Uzume.

"Flock?"

"It's the way that we call our, well, ahem, situation." Chiho was the one to speak while Minato rubbed the back of his neck.

"I don't like the word harem for this, and other words aren't really fitting. Flock is the easiest word to call it." Ichika shared a look with Uzume. The boy had taken the same grin as the Veiled Sekirei. She was going to have fun with Ichika.

"Well, it's easy to make a joke with those words, but I am not going to. So, brother. I suppose you had your fun?" The Ashikabi got a blush on his face while Ichika kind of smirked at him.

"I don't worry, brother. But again." Ichika just placed his left hand on the shoulder. "Thanks for letting me stay, big brother."

"You're welcome, brother." With that, the two males just walked to the garden, where they began to chat and talk and enjoy their times together. And when they heard the landlady saying. "Lunch is served." An organized mess ran up to the table, and they sat down. Ichika didn't pick a side as Kusano, Musubi, and Tsukiumi all demanded the attention of the Ashikabi.

He took a seat next to Kazehana and Chiho. Despite his friendship with Minato, he had easily opened up to the girls.

Kazehana had gotten used to stares and lewd behavior from other males. As long those weren't in the realm of harassment, the windflower didn't mind if she turned a head or two. Not with Ichika. His eyes remained focused on hers, and Ichika had been pleasant to be around.

Chiho found that Ichika just pointed a thumb at the bickering. "That is normal. You get used to it." Ichika smirked while the fighting between Musubi and Tsukiumi continued, who got to feed Minato.

After that, he got treated on the Demon Mask of Miya. Ichika decided there and then that Miya Asama was the scariest woman alive.

The lunch was a delicious treat for Ichika, who could enjoy the food. And what they said about the company is correct. Good company makes good food better. After that, the Asama's shoed the girls out of the house. Ichika was a lease from Minato, just like with the Sekirei. After that, the boys sat outside. It wasn't too hot just yet, and everyone did how he or she pleased.

Takehito sat back with a newspaper, Tsukiumi was taking lessons from Miya on becoming a proper wife.

Matsu had gone back to her room to hack away, Kazehana sat outside with Uzume while the Veiled Sekirei enjoyed her Ashikabi taking a nap. Kusano was on Kazehana. Kagari was in her room to get a book and sit outside. Meanwhile, Ichika sat outside with Minato. Neither of the boys wanted to do homework in the day.

But someone had another idea. Musubi had run out to changed into a gym outfit. Ichika could raise an eyebrow on the tight chest, and the boomers didn't hide too much of her ass.

Minato just sighed. He knew what that meant.

"Ichika. I think you got a contester." Looking back to his best friend, Ichika wondered what Minato meant in that regard.

"Eh, what now?"

"Ichika, I challenge you for a duel." Everyone just looked to Musubi and back to Ichika.

"Again, what now? You want me to what?"

Minato patted his shoulder. "Sekirei are really, really competitive creatures. Musubi has wanted a fight ever since you heard about you coming here. She has been dying to have a match with you."

Ichika looked back as Miya walked out with a smiling face. "It's just that we have been training during the Sekirei Plan. I had trained the girls when they got winged. It's still a reminiscing thing. Musubi really want that fight." Ichika looked to the landlady to the woman.

Scratching his cheek, he wasn't sure how he had to do this. Musubi was really into fighting, but he liked to sit straight without getting mauled.

"Well, I don't mind the idea of a spar, but let's keep it easy, please. I am just a normal boy, and I don't want to get killed." Musubi jumped up and down with joy while she was nodding. "Don't worry. I will take it easy on you. I just want to see a few bits from you."

Musubi was always a bundle of energy, and she had been eager to keep up with Karasuba back in the day. So with that, Ichika just walked to his room. When he got back out, he was only wearing long trousers that could get dirty.

Minato didn't have to worry about the girls being distracted by Ichika. The guy wasn't wearing anything else besides that. But he looked good.

"You're not wearing anything for your clothes above?" Ichika shook his head on the question while he gratefully took the sword of Miya. It was a wooden bokken he had gotten used to with training.

"Nope. Miya, let me tell you something. When you are constantly wearing a suit that hugs your skin, you want to wear something that makes you free. It also gives me a bit more to move. And well, it's still warm outside." Miya shook her head, and Ichika swung the sword on his shoulders.

He stood before the Sekirei and was just happy to go out in a fight. Minato stood up and looked at them.

"Before you two begin. Young Ichika. Take this seriously. You might get hurt badly if you don't." Ichika stood ready for Musubi, but he nodded to Miya.

"Musubi, you are facing a normal human being. Take it easy. When I shout stop, you two stop. Is that understood?"

The "Yes!" was shouted by the two. Miya smiled and nodded to the two.

"Begin." Musubi went first as she raced to Ichika. The Knight stood back, and contrary to popular belief, he evaded her first strikes. Musubi was quick to follow up with that, but Ichika used the same speed to back away. Even with that speed, Ichika began to read how Musubi was moving along. Nearly everyone else just looked with an uncanny interest.

When Musubi tried a roundabout kick, Ichika ducked. When the feet had passed, he leaned back with a grin. When Musubi had placed her feet down, Ichika charged in while Musubi was focused. The sword did connect but on her fist. The two struggled. A gulp came down. This was different. She was a whole different thing.

The two broke off the attack, and Ichika went back at her. He wasn't going to win this in a defensive role.

He couldn't parry or block Musubi, so he had to dodge her attacks.

Or she had to dance to his tune.

Musubi was holding back most of her power. Everyone in the Inn knew her strength, so she let Ichika attack and measured up how much force. She knew that she couldn't go all out on him.

She wasn't Karasuba, thank God for that. She matched the sword and his attacks, blocked the strikes. What she didn't expect was that Ichika would use his sword in one hand. In standard sword fighting from Japan, both sides were used.

Ichika must have taken a page from another book. His left hand wrapped around her hem. When he was sure that she was secure, he dragged her along. Now, this had mostly to do with the fact that Musubi was taking it easy on him.

There was no real idea that Ichika could hurt her or that the boy would do so. This was a sparring match. Not a fight. It was just to get your opponent on the ground. Not down. And it was partly due to technique but also because Musubi was weighing twelve kilos less than Ichika.

Technique and being heavier made it easier for Ichika to slam her in the ground over his shoulder. Musubi hadn't anticipated such a move, but she wasn't outdone. Razor fast reflexes brought her feet down. When one fist reached for Ichika, she got him down. Quickly, Ichika untangled himself from her as she stood back. Ichika was sure that Musubi had measured him up.

She would be sure that he was one of the better humans she faced. When she raced to him, Ichika met her heads on.

The spectators were all looking at the whole scene in a different show. Kusano wasn't too happy with the fights but found that Ichika was different.

Minato wasn't sure that was happy on this whole thing but could only decide after this fight was all said and done. He just prayed that both would get out of the mess.

Kazehana, Uzume, and Chiho could only look at how Ichika was fighting. She had seen what power she could use, and Ichika tried his hardest to keep up. They could see how he fought.

Matsu had come out and seen how Ichika blocked Musubi. When the Miko Sekirei wanted to deliver a hook, the sword had brought in. The Wisdom Sekirei didn't flinch as Musubi received an uppercut that would have been vicious if Ichika was fighting a normal human being.

Kagari hadn't closed his book. She'd wait until they were done. The Flame Sekirei would know how this would douse out.

Meanwhile, Miya and Takehito could only look and see how Ichika fought. They could see his sister in him. He lacked Chifuyu's confidence, her gloating, her fighting. Her coldness.

He did have a warmer heart, and a large part of the fighting was included. Chifuyu was more experienced, better trained than Ichika at his age. Either Chifuyu had done some harsh training before, or she had withheld the preparation of her younger brother. Hence making him weak and depending on his sister.

Musubi was faster than Ichika yet found that increasing the skill needed to take him down a challenge. In her head, a place told her that in the future, she would do a similar thing, just like her sister wives.

And this was a great start—the young friend of her Ashikabi.

As for Ichika, he was finding this a challenge, yet for the first time in months, he was genuinely enjoying a fight. Even at an opponent that he could never hope to defeat.

But that wasn't a matter of anger but a part of the enjoyment. Just that he could learn from her a bit. Musubi just faced him while Ichika fought with it.

Much like hers, this was enjoyment. Not spite or bloodlust like what happened with Karasuba or Benitsubasa. Compared to those two, Ichika wasn't out for blood. She came to him, and he obliged.

Strikes met fists. Wood rang against flesh. Musubi's strength matched the techniques that Ichika possessed.

In some fashion, though. It lasted for easily ten minutes as Minato began to get more relaxed as Kazehana had nestled herself again her Ashikabi. Everyone else just looked as neither Ichika nor Musubi were backing down.

The two wouldn't go down without one taking the other down. It was clear that Musubi would win. Yet, Ichika wasn't backing down. Musubi was heaving. The fight dragged on, and that was a lesson that she had learned about. Ichika stood his ground, and a smile washed over his handsome face. His body did have some wounds but nothing to the extent that he needed to see MBI.

Musubi, on the other hand, was also getting tired by the amount of energy she had to invest in this. Ichika wasn't stronger, but by holding back, she had to leave out most of her strength, yet she had to get used to his strength and what she could and couldn't use.

It made a massive difference in the whole thing that Minato had seen. Neither of the two would stop, and yet, they avoided extensive injuries. Ichika was glad that he could keep going for so long. But his body had begun to give out. Musubi had taken a page from his book.

Sure, Musubi could take him out with one fist, but that would kill Ichika, and that was something that none of them wanted. So when Ichika swiped in, Musubi took the boy by his arm. Still regulating her strength, keeping back, the Miko swung Ichika over her back. Ichika prepared himself for a painful landing, but he was held back by Musubi.

She grabbed him by the neck and began to press. Ichika knew that he wouldn't get out that hold. Tapping her arm, she let him go while stretching her arms with a victorious smile, causing her chest to jiggle.

The rest of the Sekirei just went back to their usual duties while Minato went to check on Ichika. The boy was heavily breathing from the whole fighting. He wasn't that badly hurt by the battle. If Musubi hadn't grabbed him and landed him on the floor and not wearing any upper clothing, yeah, that might have been bad.

"You're okay?" Ichika gave him a thumbs-up while he was still catching his breath. His hands were still on his knees. After a few seconds, he was back up, all smiles and eyes moist.

"Been a while since I had this much fun. Brother, you have to tell me. You ever match them with them?" A nervous laugh escaped Minato as he looked to his seven wives. Chiho shared his nervosity when the two matched their eyes.

"Never, Ichika. Unlike you, I have never been a fighter, to begin with. But that reminds me. Musubi." The Bear Sekirei smiled at the two while she smiled at him. She first went to the sweating Knight.

"You were fun, Ichika. I mean. I can't go all out, but you're fun to train with." Ichika couldn't be sure why she would say that. Undoubtedly, the Sekirei had faced tougher ones.

"Why do you say that, Musubi? I am pretty weak."

"With you, I have to regulate my strength. That makes it harder to guess how much I can use as my strength. It's good exercise." The two just raised an eyebrow on that remark.

"Why?" Ichika was the one who asked as he wasn't too sure.

"When I have my child, I can teach them the same things. With this, I can practice on that regard with you. To hold back and gradually add." Minato blushed up a storm as Ichika couldn't help but snort at the reaction.

"Well, that explains a few things. How about we take it easy now?" Ichika could get used to days like this. For him, this was paradise. After that, he got shown the baths where he could get his aching muscles to heal. It was just a traditional one, and well, he just soaked in hot water.

He wasn't joined by Minato, who could imagine that he wanted some privacy. The guy just soaked in while the heat spread around his body. Ichika could allow himself to smile now. The girls were fun here and not after him.

Despite their incredible sexy appearance, Ichika wasn't bothered with them. The message they were married to Minato gave him a barrier in his mind. Ichika didn't take long, though. After he was done with being soaped in and soaked out, he walked back. In the clothing area, he found a clean set of trousers and a shirt.

Not recognizing them, Ichika guessed there were from Minato. Thoughtful as ever, precious thing that he never got at school. When the boy got out, he saw how the eight girls made their way to the bath.

Ichika could only smile and shake his head; finding Minato wasn't tricky. He sat outside and looked at the garden.

"Thanks for the clothes, brother. That way I don't have to walk around naked around the place." Minato found that the loose shirt fitted Ichika well. It also hid his clothes.

"You're welcome, Ichika. A bit more time and we can have dinner." The sun was slowly setting while Ichika just looked over the horizon. It was beautiful to see it now. The Ashikabi and the Pilot could hear the girls were having fun in the bath.

"So you really went there? Got them all pregnant." Minato flopped back with a goofy smile.

"Yes. I have never been more exhausted in my entire life. That's just one thing. In a few days, the girls have a checkup at MBI, where we can see if it worked." Ichika sat back with a smile that wasn't goofy but a bit teasing.

"What?"

"Oh, nothing. A stupid joke. I mean. It wouldn't fit that you put all your eggs in one basket. I mean. They carry that."

A stupid joke, yes, but both boys began to laugh while the girls took their sweet time.

"Hey, Ichika. Just a few questions. Why did you come here?" Ichika sighed while Minato sat back up. Their feet on the grass and their heads on the clouds.

"Because you offered, and I wasn't going to stay home. Brother, I have three things I want to do now I am here. One. Do my summer in peace. I am owned that much."

"Okay. What are the other two things?" Minato asked while Ichika smiled.

"Two. Get my homework done. I'm going to borrow your brain or Matsu's for that. Three. Get strong. I get that I can't beat your Sekirei, but I want to get strong enough to hold my own. That's all." Ichika told his best friend while he grinned at Minato.

"Happy to have you around. I am just wondering. What is your sister doing now? Or the girls you told us about?" The question had played in Minato's head now Ichika was around.

The boy just smiled and looked to the sky. "I don't care at all. I am just happy to be here."

Meanwhile, at the ISA. Honne Nohotoke had a dull day now. The heat had gone down while she just sat inside. But even so, she was bored. Couldn't play games, girls were out and so back and so forth.

She had heard from Jasei over the phone. She could see herself getting steady with the boy one day or another. He was fun, had some weird humor, liked a good nap, and had fun outside.

Due to the hot weather, they couldn't go outside and have fun. Sure, they used phones, but now, in the summer, they could hang out.

Then, she heard her phone ringtone. The one she had put in for Jasei. He liked the song. She wondered how many covers over that song existed.

It's going to take a lot to drag me away from you

There's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do

I bless the rains down in Africa

Going to take some time to do the things we never had

She smiled and took it.

"Hey, Ja." A smile worked on her face. Ichika was out to get, so she went for the guys around them. And Jasei was a good lad. But she would treat him well.

"Honne. Hey. How are you?"

She sighed while she laid her head. "Bored out my skull. Why'd you call?" Jasei made a noise as he was hurt.

"What? A guy can't check on his adorable girlfriend?"

"Girlfriend? What girl do you mean?" Honne said back while Jasei snorted.

"Who do you think? Honne. Just a question. Are you free in the next few days? It's not as hot as it used to be, and well, I want to hang out with you." Honne looked outside, and he was right. Sure, she could.

She had nothing to do, and she loved seeing him again. "Sure thing. Tomorrow around noon?"

"Works for me. I'll pick you up there. Good night, Pikachu."

"Night, Eevee." And with that, Honne smiled and laid her head back.

But not all girls were so happy with how their day went. Some had no fun at all.

For example, five girls who realized that Ichika was no longer around and again, had come to his house. When they did, Chifuyu Orimura had enough of their bullshit. So the five had under the threat of bodily harm had decided to clean the entire house.

It was a wakeup call for Cecilia, who hadn't been used to the concept of a broom and vacuum cleaner. Quite a breaking point for the noble 'Lady.'

All five girls had been designed to tasks, one even more atrocious than the last. Only now, at the end of the day, they could take it easy. All five of them were exhausted.

"Remind me never to piss off Orimura-sensei ever again," Houki said while the other girls laid exhausted.

"Agreed!" A chorus of four girls said the same thing as Chifuyu smiled. She had walked out of the bath with a smile. The bottle of whiskey wasn't even halfway through.

"You all should have known better than to make me angry. And well, it should happen that the house got cleaned."

It would have been more impressive if Chifuyu Orimura wasn't dressed in a white shirt and panties. The girls could only glare at her.

"Chifuyu-san. How did you manage to keep this place clean?" Rin asked while Chifuyu sat down with a vicious smile.

"Let me put it at you this way. I earn money, Ichika keeps the house clean. Right now, he is off to Minato's place. So, I am happy that I got myself some slaves to clean up." The girls just laid their heads back on the sofa while Chifuyu looked at the place.

She was happy that she was out the time now.

And she had taken a picture of the girls. Maya had one excellent hobby as dress up as all five girls were forced into maid outfits. It was befitting, though, and maybe it was something that Ichika could find funny.

Chifuyu certainly did. It did show off, and it was an excellent determent. If the house wasn't cleaned, they had to go home in those clothes.

Chifuyu knew one thing, and that was the pride of the girls would never allow them to do just that. It might be karma that would bite her back, but she couldn't bring herself to care.

The clothes were too revealing, and maybe for once, Rin was happy that she didn't have big tits.

Houki just sighed. She had gotten a ton of it. Weeks of dirty dishes had been piling up. The Shrine Maiden had no idea how long she had spent on the dishes. She wished that one of the girls would be able to help her out.

Unfortunately, for her, the other girls had been out there doing different actions. Cecilia had been forced to dust down the stairs. That wasn't the worst thing. Trash was massive, and she had carried it out all by herself.

She had never carried such a heavy and dirty load. It was disgusting how much that bag reeked. She just bemoaned the whole ordeal.

She wasn't alone in disgust. Rin had been out to clean the bathroom. Chifuyu had never understood that damp caused mold. The whole thing was just disgusting.

Rin was out in the dining room to clean that up. Chifuyu hadn't been eating well, so the amount of dirt was incredible. And it was a good thing that Houki was in the kitchen as the dirt was spilling into the two places. Both had spent hours on getting the stains out her.

Houki wasn't done just yet. She had to go up the attic. An attic is a place to store goods you don't need but don't have to throw away. It had one good advantage, though. She found a ton of baby pictures of Ichika.

That was the one good thing at this waste of a day. She knew that she wasn't happy with this, but just the idea of that Ichika picture was just great.

It was weird, though. She couldn't find a single thing back about his parents or his previous life. Not that she would pry now.

Charlotte had been assigned to the living room. She had vacuumed after Houki and Rin were done with the biggest messes so she could do the floor there. After that, she had to look for the living room. Working that was no fun. But she could handle that. That wasn't the worst.

The chore of windows was no fun at all as she had to balance herself on a ladder while she was out with a bucket. They had plenty of rooms. She could get it in Ichika's room, but looking for stuff was out as she had to hurry up.

The doorknobs had to be dusted off, and that took forever. In the end, Charlotte couldn't feel her hands anymore.

But she had to as beating the rugs was no fun. She was happy that Cecilia and Houki helped her carrying that mess out. She wouldn't be able to do that alone.

The three girls had disappeared in the basement. Neither she nor Laura dared to ask, but Cecilia ran to the bathroom to take a shower, and Houki had to comfort Rin. Neither could speak a word, but the smell was horrible.

It wasn't just the basement. This house hadn't seen a significant cleaning in ages. It was one thing to live in a place, but Chifuyu was a sloth.

In the meantime, Laura had done the laundry, and just like the dishes, they had been piled up. Laura had been used to cleaning things as well, but this was extremely humiliating. After that, she had to wax the floor when she had mopped them.

And if that wasn't enough. They had to polish the furniture and scrub the walls as well. That took one joint effort.

They had started at seven in the morning. It was two minutes to midnight when they were done. Chifuyu just shook her head. Waking them up wouldn't work out well. And well, they gave her a cleaned house.

And she could thank Tabane for the cameras in her house as she had watched the girls breaking down. Chifuyu raised a cup to the moon. She couldn't care where the girls were angry at her. She had to reign them in.

Ichika could come home to a clean place. That was a good thing, perhaps.

But before that, she found that Ichika had left behind a picture.

"Oh, I suppose you girls don't want to see how Minato and his harem look like." She could have rung the dinner bell on a group of starved soldiers as all five girls woke up.

"You got a picture of Minato and those women here?" Houki was first and glared at Chifuyu.

"What kind of the women is this Minato guy surrounded with?" Rin said.

"I can't believe that he left a picture of that pervert around?" Cecilia had been ashamed of that.

"I want to see."

"My wife should know better."

The five girls got the picture and all gulped. Minato himself wasn't that bad looking. But the women surrounding him were something else.

With the notable exception of the child and the young lady, all girls had one more thing to add to Minato; they were all well-endowed. Like, well-formed ladies.

And none of them were too shy of showing off during that hug where they were all around Minato.

"Oh my."

"Are those real?"

"You have to be kidding me? Those sizes are enormous."

Houki could only look down and estimate that the women weren't like hers, although Rin was blue with shocked. She couldn't believe it. Why was this world so unfair? Why did super-hot aliens have tits which were so big while she had none to speak off.

She was as flat a washboard. Little did she know that there were other Sekirei who had the same issue as her. One, she had more in common with that she would think.

"I just hope my brother won't catch any of those. I can imagine he would like them."

The five girls couldn't help but glare at Chifuyu, who just smiled. Two were familiar faces to hers, although she doubted that Matsu and Kazehana would recognize her after all those years.

She found that Minato was happy with the women that he had wed. Chifuyu hoped that.

Despite all things, her little brother was a virtuous young man, and she couldn't imagine that the Sekirei would make things hard on him. Or that they would hunt after Ichika. Maybe some teasing, her brother would be for that.

Looking at her five maids, Chifuyu knew that, however, she had done this, she thoroughly made one massive mess of this whole thing. Here, she was in the summer, alone. Maybe, she should have mended her relationship with her brother. Yet, she knew better than anyone why Ichika ran. Why he fled the house when the heatwave was over, he didn't want to entertain those girls in those weeks.

She never was good at it. Relationships were one thing, but it had changed Ichika to the degree that she couldn't hold back. Instead of a young puppy following her, he was just out of it and refused to listen to her.

If he never met Minato, it might be that her brother would be like what she hoped for. Ichika had been close to him for one simple reason. Minato offered him peace and warmth. With Minato, Ichika had nothing to prove. He could be around the guy and the Ashikabi.

Well, it was that the two sought a friendly nature, and now, the older was capable of helping the other one.

Back in Shinto Teito.

After dinner, Ichika sat back with a full belly conversing with Matsu. His guardian angel (and a woman that he was tempted to call his big sister) had looked at Byakushiki. As long Ichika didn't use that machine, he was fine to stay around, but the bespectacled woman had wanted to take a look at it.

Maybe with some bits added, she could get his growth to be exceptional. In some regards, Ichika was an outsider taken by Minato, who was just his best friend and older brother figure. His brother had built out a life here with those girls, and Ichika still couldn't help that he was intruding.

But the Sekirei had welcomed him among their midst. Minato was doing duties for Musubi and Tsukiumi. Chiho could only shake her head as Matsu had borrowed his Infinite Stratos unit. The female Ashikabi sat in the lap of Uzume, who had seen the actions going on. And she could only look at it.

Kazehana was sitting next to them as she had captured Kusano in her arms. Everything was a good exercise now with kids on the way. Musubi was training and holding back, Kusano and babying her. It was valuable lessons that they all would learn when they would have their children. The Green Girl tapped so she could be let go. The girl stood and watched the scenes going on.

"I'll ever see that thing again?" Ichika asked while he moved to sit next to the Veiled Sekirei. Minato wasn't lying when the former ronin talked about Uzume. That grin was indeed infectious.

In regards to age, he was just looking to Uzume, and Ichika had begun to think a bit.

Minato was his older brother. Not in the same vein as Kusano or Yukari.

Matsu and Kazehana were the oldest of the flock. He had no real clue on what age they were, but in terms of behavior and body, it was safe to say that his guess was correct. They acted like they were five or six years older than Minato.

Kagari was just a bit younger than them. The Flame Sekirei appreciated Ichika around to have some fun but kept to himself. It would take some time for her to get used to the boy.

Uzume was younger than Kagari, so Ichika saw her as an older one. A sister perhaps as well.

In regards to age, he could label them all like that, except for Kusano, but given the acting, Tsukiumi and Musubi were a bit immature compared to Minato. Hotheaded or innocent, Ichika wasn't tempted to add the term big sis to them just yet.

Chiho was his age. So she was also out on seeing as older.

"You'll get it back later. When Matsu is done but that might take some time." He just looked to his right and at the scene.

"So just wondering. The whole flock thing. It has been like that since the beginning." Uzume shook her head. Ichika had an idea he just landed on a landmine.

"No. This all started when Minato winged Tsukiumi. The Waterdere had in her head that she is his legal wife. At the same time, we all can lay claim to that. And still, I was winged by him after the plan. I was winged by a certain little girl whose name I know very well and who I love very much during that plan." Uzume could feel the hands of Chiho going up to her breasts.

"I picked up as much from my brother. He winged you after the game. Still, I don't get it. How did that even go? From the little knowledge I have, a Sekirei can only be winged by one Ashikabi, but an Ashikabi can wing multiple Sekirei?"

Chiho let the breasts go. "Well, it worked as doctor Takehito told us. A Sekirei could be winged by two Ashikabi's if a set of conditions are met."

"Those are, Chiho?" Ichika was now interested, and the girl began to speak.

"One. The Sekirei must have strong feelings and an attraction to the two Ashikabi's in question. Two. Both Ashikabi's must have strong feelings, and in three, the two Ashikabi's just like each other as well. So all feelings are reciprocated. Those were met in our case. And while I am the stranger in the middle as I am a normal human, I didn't want to be left out. I love Minato as I love Uzume."

Ichika could only look at his brother and shake his head. That was amazing.

"He's really something, that Minato." Uzume and Chiho smiled.

"You don't have to tell us, Ichika." Uzume was a bit apprehensive. She had feared that Ichika would be completely broken and not trusting women. Given where he came from, she wouldn't blame him one bit. Yet, here he was. Relaxed, friendly, and he had a match with Musubi.

Ichika wasn't intruding in the house. While he was the guest of Minato, he kept his distance with the Sekirei. The girls made it clear how close he could be, but he was staying way ahead of them. If he came closer, it would be on his own volition. Uzume found that she liked the guy.

It would make sense that Yukari liked Ichika as he was just like Minato; Kazehana lamented the fact that Ichika wasn't an Ashikabi. He could make an excellent one.

She just sighed and looked at her husband. Minato would make an excellent father; that was what she was sure of. And if it didn't hit this time, they could try later. But seeing the earnest young man in front of her, Kazehana liked Ichika as well. As a little brother.

It was funny to see how he tensed as she softly assaulted his scalp.

"Ka… Kazehana?" Ichika asked while the Wind Flower ruffled his hair. She smiled and shook her head as she admired the cheeks on Ichika.

"Sorry, I couldn't resist. You react much as Minato did. However, I would take some other matters. Like flashing my breasts." She looked down and found that Ichika looked away. His respect was great for her. Touched by it, she smiled.

"Let me know when you do so I can look back. Hate to say this, but you are my brother's wife. So what you do in the sack. Leave me out of it. I am too young to understand, and I don't want to know." Kusano nodded as she tugged on Ichika's sleeve.

"Kuu? You need something." Ichika asked. The pint-sized girl yawned while she looked at him. Lifting his arm, Kusano nestled herself on the lap of Ichika. Uzume just raised an eyebrow while Kazehana giggled.

Kusano wasn't that trusting in her life towards strangers, yet here she wanted the attention of Ichika. When she laid down like a giant cat, Ichika couldn't help but find the sight a bit endearing.

"Well, it's clear how Kusano sees you. I think it's her way to say that you're welcome to the family." Minato said as he joined the others now. Ichika just sighed when he looked at the whole sleeping girl.

"Brother. Just a question. You said something about moving." That began to ring a bell in their heads. This was their last summer at Miya's house.

"Yes, I am moving. We have found a place. Before the party and summer festival, we are thinking of getting a few tests at MBI. If these are positive, we are moving. If all goes well, we have moved out at the end of summer."

"I hate to sound selfish, but that is enough time for you to help me out with my homework and training," Ichika answered, and Minato couldn't find any fault in that logic.

"No worries about that. I understand."

"And I help you out moving. That's the least I can do for you." Ichika got a grateful nod from Kazehana, Minato, and Uzume.

But with Chiho's yawn, it was clear that last night had effects on their system. Ichika joined them as he had been tired from the night train. It was clear that all of them needed rest. The girls knew where they wanted to go, and Miya wouldn't be able to stop them.

In the bathroom, Ichika was first. When he came out, he saw his brother in his pajamas. Opening his hand, Minato lifted him. The older guy clasped on the back of Ichika while Ichika did the same thing. With a smile, Ichika got back on the ground.

"Night, brother."

"Night, brother."

Kusano was carried in by Minato while Ichika just shook his head. Turning around, he found Uzume standing while she was waiting in the room.

"You sleep in this room?" Jokingly, Ichika rolled his eyes while he walked on.

"Nope. I got one for myself. 205. And I don't think Minato would appreciate it if I am intruding on his room. Goodnight, Uzume." Before he could pass, the Veiled Sekirei took his arm. Ichika wasn't sure what happened next, but the brunette kissed him on his forehead as she spun him around.

It did show a generous amount of cleavage. Did those women have no shame? His morals were unshakeable, but he wasn't blind.

His face like up like a house, and when Uzume let him go, she winked. "Good night." The poor boy ran as fast his legs could carry him.

"Was that such a good idea?" Chiho asked while she had her arms crossed. She wasn't sure if it fitted that Uzume has just given him a forehead kiss. With a serious face, Uzume turned to her Ashikabi.

"Chiho, just humor me. You see him like this. Ichika is starving for affection. The times that Minato lifted him up. Or when Kusano laid her head on him. He reacts differently. And while I don't feel attracted to him, a part of me aches looking at him. We all heard those stories about his life at the ISA."

"You mean that he likes being hugged? Or loved?" Turning her head, they greeted Kazehana.

"You don't? Big sis, you can see how much he likes Minato. We all heard the horror stories from him. A human being can't survive without warmth. As long he is here, and we don't cross borders, I am not going to change my ways."

Uzume had always been affectionate like the other Sekirei. With Minato, she could roughhouse, and that was something she liked doing. Maybe this time, she could do the same with Ichika.

A sigh escaped Kazehana. She shook her head as she grinned at the two. "Well, we're going to give him one good summer. But not too much teasing him, right?"

"Indeed."

The two women closest to her sighed when Uzume said that. Both knew that Uzume wouldn't stop teasing Ichika. If she didn't go too far, there would be no foul in that.

Meanwhile, Ichika walked back to his room. He had a smile that could fuel Shinto Teito, and for the first time, he was somewhat relaxed. A room to himself. It had been some time since he could sleep alone.

He laid his head back on the futon and closed his eyes. This was going to be one fun summer. Meanwhile, around Minato, the Sekirei put asleep. They were just assembled around him.

Quite a difference compared to last night. They were dressed this time, not soaked in fluids, and with Kusano around. It was one extra girl. Sleep was needed as they hadn't forgotten about last night. Minato could feel how sore he was.

Not that it was something wrong, but he noted that he wouldn't do this again. Not like this. Five were his maximum. He was happy that he didn't have to contend with Kusano. Oh, was he glad that he wasn't having sex with her? It would be a long ten years for her.

But that was for later. Right now, he had summer. Plus, he had Ichika around so he could get some help.

The next morning.

Ichika was up early. The thing that is true about the ceiling is new. It took a second for him to realize where he was—the Izumo Inn.

He passed by quietly in his brother's room. The Knight wasn't going to bother his best friend or the wives of that said best friend. So he walked through the Inn and reached the garden.

He wasn't the only early riser. Miya was using a sword outside while she was practicing. Unlike the girls with their Uchiganes, Ichika found that she could use a sword way better than her.

He hadn't seen a woman move like her. Ichika even sat down as he saw how she moved. It was like the sword was a part of her. Elegant yet deadly, Houki didn't even come close to Miya. It was by no surprise the sword pointed at his direction. Miya had aimed at him while she was practicing. Her kind smile hid her nature, but the reaction stayed out.

The logical reaction for Ichika was to raise an eyebrow. He just smiled at her while looking down on the sword.

"Good morning, Ichika. Did no one tell you that it's rude to stare at a lady?"

"Good morning to you as well, Miya. And my apologies, but I was captivated by your sight as swordmaster. Very impressive." The honest word only gave her color on the cheeks. It was the same boyish style Minato had. She put away her sword while the Pillar found the words to get Ichika rising.

"My, Ichika. I am wondering if you are trying to court this landlady?" The boy could only blush and shake his head.

"Far from it. I just wanted to get up early. And well, I have been watching you. I haven't seen anyone move like you." Miya smiled as she put the sword away.

"I have trained Minato's Sekirei during the plan. But that is all in the past. I suppose that you don't want to hear all that." The boy shook his head while he continued to watch her.

"Well, I promised you a fight. Maybe working up a sweat is what I need to get myself up." Miya smiled at him. It wasn't hard to find a wooden bokken and handing to Ichika. Remembering how the fight with Musubi went, she had to hold back.

It was also no training for herself or preparing him for a bloodbath, although she could imagine that would happen. Ichika carried the blood of Chifuyu.

At the end of his life, there was a good chance he carried blood on his hands. But that was all a future ordeal. For now, she would help train this young man.

She stood before him with her sword raised, and she allowed Ichika the first few strikes. Not that she had a problem matching them. Ichika was nothing like his sister, who had fought as she meant it. Ichika wasn't sure how much he could fight, so it might be a chance to use all he had.

Miya had no trouble matching Ichika while he was fighting her. He wasn't a complete novice, so she held back while he was fighting. He wasn't giving her an opening but didn't go too much out in an attack. She could feel his strength behind it and had no reason to worry about it.

His style was much like his own sister, but it was unrefined. Not completed yet, she found that Ichika was trying his hardest, and she moved along. The sword matched Ichika while she was calm. Ichika found that she wasn't taking him seriously, but he didn't mind it.

Miya didn't have points for him. He had some training under his belt. The only thing that he lacked was decades of skill and experience. Well, that was something she could provide. Before long, Ichika had been working up a sweat while Miya found that while he wasn't even near her, he had a lot of potentials. But she found that it had been long enough.

So with her technique, Ichika's sword was flung out his hands. He could only look surprised at her as he was impressed by her, and despite her fighting, he wasn't that down from it.

"Well, that was interesting." He admitted while Miya smiled at him.

"You're not bad for a human. You're not a complete rookie to this sword fighting. You have picked up some bits. Tell me, where did you learn kendo?" Ichika went for the sword while he kept his eyes trained on Miya. The boy had to think.

"I learned back in the day from Houki. When well, things were normal. After that, my sister taught me. She has been doing that since I was young. I have never been too good at that. I told you it would be disappointing." Miya shook her head.

"I wouldn't say disappointing. I would use the term. Enlightening. You can learn a lot as your style isn't fully developed. If you are interested." He gave her a soft smile while he nodded at her. He could learn a lot from her, and there was no hurt in it. It would just be some extra training. It wasn't the cold way of his sister like with Byakushiki.

"Sure, I should like nothing more." Ichika meant that. It was a bit new when Chifuyu handed him a real sword. The weight of a man's life. It might be one thing that both he and his sister still agreed on.

But that could wait as Miya picked up the sounds.

"I am afraid though that our lessons will have to wait. We have a hungry flock to feed." The two just looked at each other and back to the house. Both began to laugh when they realized what Miya said. Ichika's boyish laughter mixed with her giggling.

"Good one, Miya. I will help you." Miya came to the pleasant surprise that Ichika could cook as well. Sure, she was, like sword fighting superior, but he had learned decent skills over the years. Breakfast could be served, and eventually, the room began to get filled by sleepy birds.

All of the Sekirei were wearing pajama's while Minato just grinned as Ichika walked in, already dressed.

"Good morning, you all," Miya said while Ichika came from behind her. Takehito had taken out the newspaper and was too occupied to notice them.

"Good morning, Miya." The breakfast was fun, and Ichika couldn't help but find that whatever Miya was cooking couldn't be beaten by the cooks at the ISA.

It was a lively affair as they joined in with small chats.

Ichika found a place like home.

"Ichika, I would like to have another match with you." Musubi was back dressed in her Miko outfit while Ichika was back in his usual clothes. He was still seated next to Minato after he helped Miya out with the dishes.

"Eh, Musubi. I would be happy, but my body isn't the only thing that I need to train." Ichika had taken the liberty to get the vast amounts of summer homework out his room.

"I got this nightmare, and I would like it if two brains could help me with this." Matsu and Minato shared a look. They knew what was coming now and what had to be done.

The living room was now occupied with dealing with this horror. Ichika could foresee that he would have to spend weeks on this.

To his luck, he needed an entire day on the summer homework. For Matsu, it meant some time with Minato.

The others just sat back as Tsukiumi and Musubi had a spar. Kazehana had moved herself to the rooftop to enjoy the sun. Kagari admired the view while Chiho couldn't think of a time she had homework.

Uzume had her captured again; they were lying in her room. A smile was over her face. Looking down, it was more than they could ever hope. Luck had shined in their path. Yet, now it was better than most could ever expect. Sure, they got each other again. But now, they had a more prominent family.

Matsu had found that while Ichika could be a bit dense, he wasn't an idiot in other regards. He had difficulties with some bits, but when explained by Minato and herself, she found that he was fast. Not to mention, the material was interesting. She could read it, processed it, and sent it back so that he could understand it. Ichika found that despite the study, his head was dying, and he was in despair. Around noon, they got some snacks. But all three wanted to get the homework done so they could spend doing other stuff.

Minato himself had his homework to deal with, but unlike that of Ichika, that was something he could deal with himself. Ah, the life of a student wasn't an easy one.

That was one thing that Ichika could admit.

The second day was doing the homework while the other Sekirei understood that Ichika wanted this done. Ichika could give them Minato when this was done. When the evening rolled around, and Minato walked out of the living room, he was tackled to the ground.

The Sekirei and Chiho were just recharging their Mina energy. Matsu was also happy that it was done. She could have some time off now while she had spent the entire day around her Ashikabi.

She got a surprise hug from Ichika, who was happy that his homework was done. With some awkwardness, she slowly returned the hug to Ichika. She relaxed in the touch of Ichika but smiled at him.

"Thanks for the help, Matsu."

"You're welcome, Ichika-tan. It was easier than your usual tasks." The two shared a look before they started laughing. He had been doing that a lot more in the last few days. A smile found its way back to his face. After just two days, he was more relaxed compared to his usual time.

The mulling of his thoughts was interrupted by a call. He had his mobile phone in his pocket ever the entire day, and he didn't even know.

Flipping his phone, he saw the name of the caller. He hadn't handed his number to any of the girls, but one couldn't help but be suspicious.

"Evening, Dan."

"Ichika, evening. Where the hell are you?"

"In a place, you can't reach. Why are you asking?"

"My sis went by at your place. I didn't find you but found five girls in maid outfits. When she saw, she noped out. So here, I am wondering. Where are you?"

"Great. Dan, I'm at Minato's house in what we knew as Tokyo or as it's called now Shinto Teito. You can tell your sis I am not showing my face until the summer is over." The audible sigh from Dan made it clear that he wasn't happy in that regard.

"That made my job a lot more difficult. You got any idea how difficult my sis is?"

"Dude, think about those lines again."

Thirty seconds of silence and Dan had figured it out.

"Fair point. I'll tell her that. Have fun."

"Will do. The same for you." With that, Ichika closed the call while Matsu could only snort when she heard the talk.

"A friend of yours?"

"Yep. Dan Gotanda. One of my friends from middle school. He just wondered where I hung out."

"Why is that a problem for you?" Matsu wondered while Ichika just laid his head back while his smile went a bit snarkier.

"Well, let me put it you like this, Matsu. If you got to 31, what's 32?"

The woman just looked to the room. While unlike Tsukiumi, who was on the whole set of a true wife, Matsu had no problem with Uzume and Chiho joining. She had long taken that role up, and in actuality, she found it more fun that Minato went for a Sekirei she knew.

"I believe I know what you are getting at. Another girl that likes you?" Matsu asked while she rolled her eyes on the girls around Minato.

"Yep. Dan's little sis, Ran. She's much like Rin or Houki. A real piece of work that one." Matsu could only look at Ichika while she ruffled his hair. She wasn't sure how he remained like this. She had seen a lot more turn sour and hard. Just looking at Karasuba made that clear how much she could change.

It just proved that Ichika was stronger than Karasuba, weird how that sounded. With a bit more, she found that this Inn had seen a lot of suffering. That was just clear. And yet, all of them healed. One can say that it was Minato who was recovering and healed from his wounds.

And here it was again. Ichika Orimura. Who healed from the wounds at the ISA. Yet, despite the hardships, he had there. He kept his head up and remained the same guy. Yeah, she could grow fond of him.

"Something wrong, Matsu?" The girl shook her head with a smile.

"Nope. Just reminiscing the past. By the way, Ichika-tan. I hope you don't mind that I'll take your Infinite Stratos for a while." The guy shook his head. As long that machine wasn't on his wrist, he didn't have a constant reminder of his life. So with that, he just sat back with a grin. Enjoying his life at the Inn.

While watching the scenes around them.

After that, the days they were mixed in fast.

Ichika had trained with Musubi and Miya. However, both had a different way. Ichika learned from Miya sword stuff. By imitating her moves, Ichika began to understand. It was one way to get himself to work over all the things he had learned.

He didn't demand all of Minato's attention. Sure, he liked it when his best friend spent time with him, but he could sit back and see how Tsukiumi was at him. It did cause him that he wasn't too close with the Water Girl, but he had no issues in that regard.

Love and affection were things easily provided in the house. Even in its spiritual state, Ichika was given it. They could play games like Kusano often wanted. She stopped as Ichika won most of her games.

As he was not of age just yet, drinking wasn't a thing that he did either. Minato had even forbidden drinking now. Alcohol was a thing deadly for babies. He didn't want any risks when this was going on. For Kazehana, that was a tough thing to get used to.

Besides Musubi and Miya, Ichika had bonded quickly with the others. Uzume and Chiho often spent talking about the things they had been through.

Matsu had given him tasks to complete as well. Those weren't too hard for him, and he could keep up. Minato had his homework as well to do, so in some cases, Ichika could see how the girls were sparring.

His mouth had softly dropped open when he saw Tsukiumi and Musubi moving. One night, he sat outside with Minato, who carried two colas. The girls were now in the bath. They could hear the sounds of fun coming from that place. Ichika's mind didn't even go to the site.

The soft push went off as he gulped the cola down.

"Hey, Minato. I have been on something." Minato could only sit back while Ichika looked to the sky.

"That is?" Minato asked, a bit surprised while they looked at the sky.

"I heard that you found out who your dad is." The face of the older guy was a bit scrunched up when he thought back. He hadn't seen his father in years. Hell, he didn't even know if that older man was still alive.

Frankly, it didn't matter to him. Minaka wasn't around when Minato needed him so that he couldn't care one bit about it. Now, after twenty years, he understood how his mum felt.

"Yep. Never thought it'd be Minaka Hiroto. And I was the last one to find that out. Not that it really matters. Last time I checked, my name last name is Sahashi. Yet, the whole thing is now that mom is working at MBI while our dad is still at that ship. But Ichika, can you imagine that I don't give a care."

Sipping on the drink, Ichika gave the same expression. "Brother, I am of the same mind. I don't know who my parents are. And I frankly don't care. If I look at who I look up to. One is next to me."

"Thanks for the compliment. Hey, Ichika, had you an idea that my father would be Minaka Hiroto?" Emptying the drink, Ichika couldn't find it in himself to have an answer.

"Not really. Brother. It's just one thing. In the end, we learn from our parents and see how that goes." Minato was next as he drank the cola and just laid back.

"I got no clue on how this. I mean. We've been talking about the whole idea of having kids and making babies, but now, with the most likely on the way, I have no clue how I will parent them. I got no clue what it means to be a father." Ichika grinned at him.

"Minato. I think you're overthinking it. You're one of the warmest, friendliest humans I met. You got your small sides. So have I., But you got everything to be an amazing dad. Look what you did with me. With Kusano. The second thing is that you ain't perfect."

Minato heard that again, but with Ichika, there was a line of truth.

"But there's no perfect human being. Or sentient one. But I know your kids will have one amazing dad. And as for examples. I can think of one." The heads turned to Takehito. Ichika was sure that the doctor would be the guy that he could relate to.

Maybe some figure for Minato that he could learn from.

"And well, you won't do it alone. You got eight girls to help you." And with that, Ichika rested his case.

Minato just sat back up and looked at the stars. "You're right. Thanks, Ichika."

"You're welcome."

"Now, it's my turn to ask a question." Minato's tone was severe as well, and Ichika paid attention to him.

"Sure, I listen."

"When I have those kids. Would you mind being an honorary uncle?" Ichika looked at Minato; his mouth softly dropped open.

"I would be honored." The boy didn't even think about it that much how Minato's offspring would affect him, but if he wanted Ichika around, he could deal with that.

"But don't expect me to buy them all expensive birthday presents in the first years. Seven kids ought to cost a ton of money." Both boys laughed while Ichika declared that. He would like the idea of being around the kids.

"Sure thing. Ichika. But I have to ask. You never think of getting a girlfriend?" Minato would admit he was curious if his brother never thought of getting hitched. Sure, with the girls around, that wasn't the right choice, but it never hurt asking.

"I am not tired of breathing air. Thank you. I prefer to be single. Well, at least till my adventure on the Infinite Stratos Academy is over and done if I make that far when that is over. Well, if you find me a couple of girls like the ones you have, let me know." Ichika's thumb went to the bathroom while Minato shared the grin.

"Jealous?" The question was asked. A thing that played inside of his head.

"A bit perhaps. But you went through hell to get where you are. No human can't deny you the share of happiness after you had your share in the misery. I am not looking for love at the moment. And most likely, I won't be for a long time." Ichika was just fifteen. He had an entire life in front of him.

And well, Minato was nineteen when he got Musubi around. So he didn't fault Ichika for taking some time before he would settle down and find a girl. If he ever did. Life as a bachelor. It wouldn't fit Ichika, but who knew how he could change over his life?

The next day

It was clear that something was going on as most of the Inn was up early. Ichika was outside training with Miya a bit as he saw the girls moving. It was common to see Musubi and Tsukiumi up first, but Uzume, Kazehana, and Matsu. Yeah, that was weird.

"Good morning, Ichika." The boy just waved as he focused on Miya, who showed him her the techniques. A disciple again for Miya? Heavens know how much fun she had with this training. Ichika just kept things going.

He mimicked her moves, moving his body along. He wasn't in the time to learn his fighting style. By learning the steps of another, one forged a form on his own. Material arts were like that.

When he and Miya clashed, Ichika learned a lot of things and copied her moves as he enjoyed fighting with her. He learned a lot from her, and it was clear how much she was for him.

But when they found the entire Flock up, it was clear that something was going on.

Minato walked over to Ichika while he had some serious smile.

"Ichika, you mind doing me a favor?" The boy felt the hand on his shoulder and nodded.

"Sure. What you need?" Minato looked back at his flock.

"We're going to MBI for the girls to get checked on and see if well. You can guess that."

"Already?" Ichika asked with a smile. "It's only been a few days. Aren't you sure that you need to try various amounts of times?" The joking matter was done in by a hit on the head.

"Enough. Those jokes aren't tolerated in the Izumo Inn." Ichika turned to her with a grin on his face.

"What joke? I am serious. You sure that it hit?" Minato just sighed while he walked back to the rest of the garden.

"We'll see. I'll give you the details. Can you just play with Kusano a bit until we get back after our checkup?" Minato grinned at Ichika, who looked at the Green Girl. There was breakfast already as Takehito had cooked up a lot of good stuff.

"That's it? No problem." As it was agreed, the Flock left minus Kusano. It wouldn't be great for her eyes or Ichika's. Not that Ichika wanted to see it.

"Do your mum my regards if you see her." He shouted while Kusano stayed behind. The rest realized it would most likely be Takami who would do the checkup. Yeah, that would be fun. With a few shared looks that Minato missed, it was decided then and there that if Takami made one comment about their Ashikabi, she would have one long time of getting used to walking.

Suppose the Sekirei got to her first. Minato still respected her as his mother and the one who raised him, but he had reached a point that he was utterly done with her bullshit. If she pushed, he would go back, and if she had the gall to arrest him again, he would sever all personal ties with her.

Again, if he were too late to stop his lovers, even if they got knocked up, it would take months before they would also notice that they would put a child on the earth. Their bodies would easily keep up, and even with Chiho, she wouldn't have too many issues.

The walk to MBI didn't take too long. For some, the tower still stood like an eyesore. But Minato had seen the inside often enough. Walking in, they were greeted, and white was always a color that Minato detested. They were welcomed by the receptionist, who half wanted to make way for cover as she saw the Northern Sekirei walk in.

That was promising. "You know where you can find her." And with that said, the Sekirei walked to the room of the now current acting CEO, Takami Sahashi. Minato knocked at the door, and when they heard a "Come in."

The eight walked in. "Morning, Minato. Everyone." The girls smiled at her while Takami looked at them all. She was not interested in knowing what her son had done. They were here to get checked on. Her wry grin made her shake her head.

"Morning, mom. You got the regards of Ichika. So how do we do this?" Takami smiled as she looked at them.

"I got special rooms for that sort of thing. I hope you all don't mind if I am the one looking you over for this test." Not hoping for any protest, the ones who would have, namely, the older ones like Matsu and Kazehana, kept their mouth shut.

"Also, Minato. I would appreciate it if you aren't around for this. It will get intimate." With that, the group moved along Takami as she leads them to a room. Minato wasn't allowed to enter as the Sekirei only felt a primal fear when they saw the machinery.

The smile of their mother-in-law didn't make things any reassuring. "So, who wants to first?" The girls all weren't too sure as they backed away.

And it was here that one girl proved to be more reliable than others. "I will." Takami could only raise as miss Chiho Hidaka as she stood up.

"Very well. Lay down." Most of the time, those things were hard and cold. With this, Takami guided the machine up. It would be way too early to get all elements. The horrors would be spared for later. Now, it was just an easy check. The machine went over her stomach, and it would see if it had a match.

"Chiho, please take off your dress and show me your stomach. Next time, ask your Sekirei to get a pair of trousers and a sweater." The girl blushed as she undid herself. Not that was embarrassing. After all, she had seen the others naked before and had enjoyed that sight. Uzume couldn't help but smile at her Ashikabi.

The monitor slid over her belly as it was more comfortable like this. It wouldn't tell the sex of the fetus or more. It was just a simple, yes or no. A pregnancy test would have worked, but given the bodies of a Sekirei, that wasn't the most comfortable or most reliable option.

Takami could only smile at her as life was inside her. "Congratulations, Chiho. It looks like my goofball of a son managed to get your pregnant. Who is next?"

After the Sekirei saw how easy it was, they began to slide out her clothes. After Chiho, Musubi was next as Takami found that she was still pretty innocent in that regard. Yet, when her breasts laid bare, she couldn't help but shake her head. Her song had hit one jackpot with this girl.

When the monitor slid over, the simple was enough. Matsu was wise enough to let Tsukiumi go first. The Waterdere just looked embarrassed as the monitor went over her. The girls rolled their eyes as the monitor gave a positive sign again.

Matsu was next. The girl just laid her head back as Takami smiled at her. Number four. That medicine had proved its use. She still had three women to go through.

Later, the mother could check on her other stuff like the number of kids, the sex, and other essential things.

In her forties, she would be a grandmother. Well, it was one thing that Minato had inherited from her. However, she would be happy if her daughter wouldn't follow in her footsteps. Yukari could get it when she had a college degree.

With Kazehana, the dark eyes pried at her, and Takami was careful about her. This was one relationship that she knew she had to cherish. The monitor showed a hit again.

That was just proving it worked out. Kazehana didn't say a word, but the silence spoke for itself. When she was done, she slid off the chair and went back on her dress. The girls would know that they had to dress up better.

Takami couldn't help but pity Homura. That poor guy. She still had time to get used to the fact that Homura had become a girl and got knocked up. The white-haired scientist had been close to her when the Flame Sekirei had a job as a host. She was lucky that Yasaka took her in.

Just like with Kazehana, who had stopped the alcohol, she would have to stop smoking. It wouldn't be healthy. They were too much like human beings in that regard.

Uzume was the last, and she was quick on the table. It would be a cruel joke if she hadn't been knocked up, and Takami wouldn't play such a thing on the girl. With a grin, she nodded again.

"Well, I'd say that congratulations are for all of you, but I suspect you want to tell my son?" Uzume made her uniform while the rest ran out. Minato was sitting next to the door.

"Minato!" Seven voices tackled him to the ground. He didn't even see them. The waiting chairs were torn to fragments as he felt his body engulfed by seven happy women.

Yet, he couldn't stop smiling as he was sure that this was good news. "Hey, you all. I suppose that you have good news." Takami walked out and shook her head. She couldn't keep the smile off her face.

"Yes, indeed. You managed to knock up seven women. And it means that the product worked."

Minato could feel how his soul was filled with happiness. He had felt bits coming through from the girls.

But now, he got confirmation. He was going to be a father. This was incredibly good news. He couldn't help but smile as the girls all gave him kisses while they hung on his body. Some even thought of doing him then, and there if there weren't a cough from Takami, they would have done that.

"Not that I am surprised that you are happy but the floor of this facility to have sex. All of you need to keep a few things in mind." Lecturing mode was on, so the group listened to the adjuster. The ground became their halls of teaching.

"All of you need to keep in mind that we aren't that well known on the subject of pregnant Sekirei. Yeah, scum managed to get it done, but despite all, he could handle the stuff himself. There is no telling on your regard to what it might bring. So for all of you. Avoid raw milk and cheese from that. No alcohol or smoking. Keep the dangerous stuff out for later."

Musubi raced her hand. "Can we still spar and train?" Takami was luckily prepared for that.

"You mean that you are sparring in the garden? Well, in the first few months, you can. But don't overdo yourself, Musubi. Avoid fights that might cost you a lot. I don't suppose I have to tell your stomachs are no go zones. If you want to train Ichika, you have my blessing. But keep in mind what it can do to you."

The scientist took a breath. "All of you, don't exert yourself too much. I want to study this case before we bring this medicine out. The appointments can wait until you're further. Also, you can still have fun with Minato in the next few weeks. After that, you will need to reach a stable period. That can take some time." She was happy as well, but she didn't want to lose this. The girls could lose a lot, and she wasn't sure.

"In any case, I suppose you want to go home and tell a few that you got that. If I were you, I would keep the news until the party." With that, the group nodded. During the talk, they were about the ideas of the kids, but it was too soon. Well, at least, it was clear that they had to move out. When they got back home, they were greeted by Kusano, who ran up to Minato.

"Big brother. Did you make Kusano a big sister?" Ichika leaned against the wall with a smile on his face while the Asama's stood behind them with a soft one. Takehito had a hand on his wife's shoulders. The two just waited to hear what Minato had to say.

"Looks, we did." Miya smiled at the Flock and their smiles.

"I take from all your smiles, that you all managed to get a child."

The flock nodded at them. "Yes. We all got a bun in the oven." When they realized that it was Kagari who said that, the entire room exploded with laughter. Even Kusano, who didn't get that joke, laughed with them.

"Well, congratulations to all of you." Miya offered them a bow with a kind smile. Ichika couldn't help but smile.

Walking over to his best friend, he softly tapped the shoulder. "Congratulations, big brother. To all of you as well." Minato gave the same smile back.

"Thanks, brother." The group sat around in the room. Their happiness radiated from the room, and Kusano was high on the stuff as well. Miya and Takehito were just smiling at the group while Ichika had his arms crossed with a smile. This was amazing to hear.

Now, none of them could wait until their friends would come over. This was going to be the best summer ever.

A couple of days later

Minato and Ichika were back out to get the groceries needed for the party. The shop was open, and Ichika had volunteered to help out to get all they needed. A moderate amount of alcohol, a considerable amount of meat.

Minato got quite some stares as he was walking with Ichika instead of the usual group, Sekirei. The two just looked around and found the right amount of meat to take with them along for this.

"You sure about this amount? It's like we're feeding one army instead of a party." Ichika didn't believe that they bought for kilos of meat.

"You never had to feed them. Believe me, Sekirei can eat. Plus, we also got other guests over. Seo, for example." Ichika had heard that name fly by every once in a while in the house.

"I mean to ask. Who is this Seo character?" Minato gave one wry grin as the cashier loaded in the bags they needed.

"Seo Kaoru. Takehito's best friend. He helped me a ton through the Sekirei plan. Down below, he is not a bad guy. But he's too much work to keep up with. Miya calls him a scoundrel, and that is what he is." Minato shook his head while Ichika just looked at him.

"You're friends with him as well?" Ichika took the two bags and walked next to Minato. The Ashikabi of the North looked up to the sky. He paused while Ichika stood next to him.

"I wouldn't say, friend. I owe Seo too much after the Plan, but he's too much to keep up with. The whole thing has to happen to him; he does it to himself. Miya and Takehito put up with it. In some regard, he just wants to be repaid with food."

"So he gonna be at the party?"

"I didn't bother to invite him, but he'll be there," Minato answered. "And there you can make your own judgment of him." Minato wasn't sure in that regard. He didn't even know how Seo got by now; the plan was over. But that wasn't his concern.

He just hoped that they would leave Ichika be. In the end, it didn't matter.

The two were just happy to be with the other now. For now, that didn't matter. The sun was shining, and yet, it wasn't too hot.

Minato had changed into a buttoned shirt that was white while he had shorts on. Ichika had opted to go for a pair of jeans, but he was wearing a T-shirt as well. The blue matched well with him.

A comfortable silence settled in while the two walked home in. It was just happy how things were now. They couldn't ask for more.

The preparation for the feast were all set in. Barbecues were installed, and the food was spread out. The Sekirei had divided the tasks while preparing. Alcohol was around, but Minato had kept it a lower amount than usual.

Ichika had been helping out with the cooking, and he was good enough for Miya and Tsukiumi. The weather wasn't super hot as back then, but it had some warmth in it.

They had quite a few guests coming over.

Seo and the Thunder Twins. Hibiki and Hikari with their four sons. Raizou, Raiden, Raimei, Raigou. Not a huge source of inspiration and both had the idea to fry their father as well.

Sanada had brought his six Sekirei with him. However the case, Minato never wanted to know, but he kept his other three bloodthirsty psychopaths in line. He had an idea, but he didn't want to ask.

Yukari and Shiina were also passing by. The Sekirei had given their warnings to their husband, and he had let his sister know about the dangers.

After those two, you had four Ashikabi with just one Sekirei.

Shigi Haruka with Kuno, Oosumi Orihiko and his own Sekirei Kaho, Takano Kouji with Namiji and Jin who took Yashima along.

Quite a massive list of guests, but the group had been prepared for that.

They could smell the first one and hear them. An electric cry if such a thing existed. After that, a normal one. In walked Seo. He had his usual clothes on, a white undershirt, and a pair of jeans that were burned.

After that, two pretty girls with four kids in their arms. Six months old and yet, they had grown quite a bit.

"Midday Sahashi. Sorry for the noise." Ichika just looked at them. The girls were wearing simple aprons. He didn't have to be an idiot that they were twins.

"Afternoon, Seo. So you knew of this party." Minato greeted him while he looked at the group. Next to him stood Ichika.

"I sensed it. So I came along." The guy sighed as he looked at the twins. They seemed happy while Takehito walked up to them.

"Hello, Seo. I hope you're hungry." The twins were exasperated, and they fried him even more.

"We are so sorry for the inconvenience. We're really happy that you let us come over." With that, Ichika saw how the corpse made its way to him.

"Sorry to ask, but are you …" he paused a bit and scratched his cheek. Ichika found that was examined.

"Ichika Orimura?" The youngest could only nod a bit while he eyes Seo. Rough around the edges for sure.

"Hey." The guy got pulled by the neck in a noogie. "Hey, you mind giving me your Infinite Stratos. That will fetch one pretty penny." The twins heard it and fried him again as Ichika could only look at the three.

"Scoundrel, right?" Uzume asked her hubby while Ichika could only see how the twins dragged him to the food that was already plentiful. The Sekirei of Minato couldn't help but shake their head on the twins.

Even Chiho looked a bit disappointed.

"I wouldn't say, scoundrel. More like the failure of an adult."

"Tell me about it. Good judgment, Ichika." The familiar voice made the two grin as Ichika greeted Yukari Sahashi. The sister ran over to him, and despite the age gap of three years, Ichika gave her one hell of a hug.

"It's been too long, Ichika. Far too long." She laughed while Ichika joined in her laughs as well. After that, he let her go while he looked up and down. Yukari had grown a lot in the last years, and she had gotten some curves while her legs had grown. She was a bit smaller than Ichika, but she was still very fond of him.

"Hello, Yukari. How are you?" The girl glared at her brother while she let him go.

"Fine. I am at university. Wait a second. You have to meet my Sekirei." A grey-haired with grey eyes looked at the two.

"This is Shiina. Number 107."

"Shii!" A loud cry from Kusano and the girl skipped to him, and he hugged his surrogate sister while he lifted her.

"Hello, Kusano." His attention went to Ichika. "So you're Ichika Orimura? I heard a lot from you from Yukari."

Minato had never thought that Shiina could be jealous, but luckily, Ichika gave him a dazzling smile. "I hope nothing bad. I got enough press at it is. So Yukari. You're also an Ashikabi."

"I am, indeed. And I heard from my brother that you have a tough time." Ichika's face fell with that comment.

"Don't remind me. It's thanks to your brother that I survived. So you've been fine?" The youngest glared at the brother again. "Yes. But you have to know, Ichika. My brother got kids, and I am not allowed to because I'm in school. So unfair."

"How is that my fault? It's what mom said." Yukari glared at him. "It's not that you're completely innocent. You've been having fun with your girls. I do the same with Shiina now."

"It's not like you can knock him up," Ichika said. "And your mum is right. As long as you're in school, you best don't get pregnant until you are done. I don't think it will be that fun. So stop that." Yukari glared at him but looked at the girls who were apprehensive of their sister-in-law.

"If you don't mind, do you think that I." She was cut off by Shiina, who dragged her by the ear. "You are not going to embarrass me, Yukari. I'll make it up for you when we are home."

Ichika had a hard time not laughing.

"Rather him than me. But they're good for each other. And well, maybe later, they can have kids." Minato saw how Musubi greeted Yukari. Ah well. If she were okay with her tits being groped, it wouldn't hurt Yukari. So with that, the two just sighed.

"You got one heck of a sister." Ichika was still in the hallway, looking at her while Miya scared her with the Demon Mask. "But she's better than mine."

"That is the truth." The two turned to see white hair with a scar and a smoking cigarette standing.

"Hello, mom." Takami Sahashi walked in her lonesome. The oldest greeted him, and she eyed him. "Hello, Minato. It looks like my medicine worked."

"That is indeed. Never felt that good."

"Tone it down in that case. Medicine is supposed to help you. It shouldn't make you dependent. But at least, it works. I got quite a few guys who want the stuff, and now it works." Minato shook his head with a blanched face.

"I don't want to know."

"Age of consent is thirteen. But I don't know any Ashikabi who is that old." Ichika snarked, and Takami began to laugh while she eyed Ichika.

Minato cringed when he thought back. Akitsu was attractive, but Mikogami wasn't that old.

"I haven't forgotten about you. Damn. Ichika. You have grown up quite a bit." In some regards, she looked at Ichika.

"Hello, Takami. Just wondering. Do you have something to keep girls off you?" The scientist shook her head but had a look of pity in her eyes.

"I suppose that you don't like it at the ISA."

"Putting it mildly. I am glad Minato offered me a futon to sleep on and a place to hang out. Miya is fun, and the flock is also nice to me. And he keeps them not sexually frustrated. That is something I think that the girls need."

"Well, I'll be sure to talk to you again. But now, I'll see that things work out." The two boys looked at the mother of Minato.

"She mellowed out if you ask me." The thumb was pointed at her while they saw the conversation.

"Well, she had to get used to the fact that my Sekirei influenced me." After that, Sanada walked in.

Ichika wasn't sure why they were happy to see that the six were calm. Three of them went to play with Shiina and Kusano; the other three were calm and sat back while enjoying the food. Sanada looked a lot like Seo.

Sanada had to know about it. Ichika just shared it wasn't fun at the school. The girls were after him all the time and when he told them about the Silver Gospel.

"So no joke. I wasn't going after that machine to fight. I was about to make my own choice. Then, those crazy girls came after me. I just went after them. Ground them in the ground."

"And you are forced to stay in school? Can't just drop out? It's what I did."

'That explains so much.' Ichika and Minato thought but were friendly enough not to say out loud.

"Not really. And even if I did. Where have I to go? I'm staying at Minato's place to escape it all."

Sanada put a hand on his shoulder. "You have a tough time there. Those mechanical sons of bitches better learn that!" And with that, he walked off.

"Nice guy."

"A bit too hot-blooded for me to spend a long time around. But his heart is in the right place." Minato admitted.

He and Minato were different, yet they got along just fine. The four other Ashikabi's walked in later. When the four were waiting for their turn to food, they had some drinks while chatting. They all could relate to the fact they had a single Sekirei.

Jin had a large bag with him, but it was a secret for now.

"So correct me if I am wrong, but is that Ichika Orimura, I see." He was the one who pointed at the pilot. The four turned to Ichika, who was in conversation with Minato.

"I thought the same," Kouji answered.

"Want to say hi?" Oosumi proposed to the three.

"What are we waiting for?" Shigi decided.

Minato turned with a smile to see the four guys he considered close friends. "So Minato. When were you going to tell us that you are friends with Ichika Orimura?"

"It never came up. But yes. He's an old friend of mine." The guy had an arm around the shoulders while Ichika looked at them. They were Minato's age or around that. Young men but the eyes were good.

"So who are you guys?"

"Jin Sokai, Shigi Haruka, Oosumi Orihiko and Takano Kouji. Friends of mine. Glad that you four could make it."

"When you got some free food. Who isn't coming? Although." Shigi turned to see Yukari, who got dragged away Shiina.

"Your sis still got those tendencies. I am happy that Kaho isn't well endowed compared to yours."

"She pulled that stunt once with my sis. Happy that we weren't around." The heads turned to Ichika, who shuddered. It didn't take long before the four did the same.

"You mean to tell me. Yukari gave the tits of your sis, Chifuyu Orimura, a squeeze. Is she insane?" Jin looked with disbelief in his eyes, and Ichika nodded. "She sure did."

The guy swallowed his bottle and drank it one gulp.

"I am not drunk enough. I need more. And I think it's our turn." The four made noises that made it clear they wanted some food.

With them around, the groups laughed, and hours went by. The younger souls had some good spirits around them while the older ones smiled. Alcohol was moderated to a degree, and despite his words, Jin hadn't been too drunk. Afterward, the barbecues were used to heat the garden.

Ichika had moved to the roof to see the sun setting. He was expecting a company but when he saw orange hair and grey eyes. The blue ribbon was cute. Her white gown was a nice extra.

"Yashima, I presume?"

"Indeed. This place's taken?" The guy shook his head, and he could humor the girl.

"Nope. Be my guest. But why come to talk to me?" Her eyes turned to Jin, who was talking with Miya about the food, and his advice was poorly taken.

"Nothing. Just that. Two birds of a feather flock together." Ichika looked back at her with a funny expression.

"Where is this coming from?" The look at her face could be described as a smile if it wasn't so sad.

"Jin isn't my first Ashikabi. I was winged before. I don't like the idea of that guy." Ichika just looked back at the setting sun.

"You mean. He was like what I am in. The Infinite Stratos Academy?" A nod was expected.

"Well, I'm not there. And well, you aren't around him."

"Jin has his quirks and rough edges as doing well. But compared to the previous one. I got myself a winner now." The smile had lost its sadness. "I have him now." The two could hear a cough from Minato.

"Thank you all for coming," Minato told the guests like the ones on the ground turned to him.

"We have decided for this party. For a few reasons. One is to celebrate the summer passing by. Another reason is to have an old friend, Ichika Orimura, around." The guy raised his glass to it.

"As some of you might know, my flock and I have made a decision. Those are the last few months that we'll spend at the Izumo Inn. I want to thank Miya and Takehito for putting up with a bunch of rowdy tenants. For that, we are grateful. So I would say thanks to them."

A round of applause went by.

"And I know some of you are interested in the stuff, so talk to my mom. For this. Jin. You had something special."

In a circle, they sat, and Jin got pressed to take out his surprise.

An acoustic guitar and none of them guessed that he could play the instrument.

His fingers slid over the instrument as he began to play.

"None of you might recognize these songs. But I still like to play this song." Yashima sat next to him with her back to his feet. She didn't lay on his lap, but she still smiled at him.

The four babies fell asleep on the music with the twins next to Seo. A smile was still on their faces.

Takami sat back at the house. Alone, she smoked, but her eyes went to her children and their lovers. A smile washed over her face.

Takehito sat back with Miya in his lap, his arms around her torso. Kuno was awake but leaned in Shigi's shoulder.

The guy opened his mouth, and they didn't expect the voice to be like this.

And if you're taking a walk through the garden of life
What do you think you'd expect you would see?

Kaho sat with her lover, their hands intertwined. Yukari sat next to Shiina, who smiled at Ichika. The two sat close and warm.

The boy himself sat alone with a smile. He was the one who fell out, but he couldn't bring himself to care.

Just like a mirror reflecting the moves of your life
And in the river reflections of me

The guy sped up a bit as he continued.

Just for a second a glimpse of my father I see
And in a movement, he beckons to me

The smile went over his face as he shared a look with Minato. It's been a while since either saw their fathers and maybe, it was a mirror for them. Yet, neither Jin nor Minato had lived the same life.

And in a moment the memories are all that remain
And all the wounds are reopening again

Minato was now sitting with the flock around him as they heard the next lines.

We're blood brothers,
we're blood brothers
We're blood brothers,
we're blood brothers

Jin sang while the others moved with the lyrics along, enjoying how the song was played despite the fact it was pretty mature. It did fit in.

The tunes changed a bit while he continued on the song. He shut up a bit.

Ichika still sat alone. Yet, he again smiled.

And as you look all around at the world in dismay
What do you see, do you think we have learned
Not if you're taking a look at the war-torn affray
Out in the streets where the babies are burned

Minato had to think about the babies that were coming. They had parents that had a violent past. He wouldn't let his children have a hard time. But the song hit as the world was still violent. One idiot went down, and another went up.

Ichika found that the girls in the ISA should hear this song as it was clear that this was a song that could fit on them very well. They had learned enough in the bloodshed.

Namiji pecked him on Takano on the cheek while he looked at her.

We're blood brothers,
we're blood brothers
We're blood brothers,
we're blood brothers

Shigi wanted to sing along while Oosumi softly whispered the lyrics. Seo just joined him while the others turned to him002E

The tune was softer as Jin was back on the song playing.

There are times when I feel I'm afraid for the world
There are times I'm ashamed of us all

Shaking his head, Jin had an ironic smile on his face. Ichika had a feeling that Shevchenko might have liked this song.

When you're floating on all the emotion you feel
And reflecting the good and the bad.

Ichika reflected on it all that was going in the last few months.

Will we ever know what the answer to life really is?
Can you really tell me what life is?

Minato glanced at the bellies of his Sekirei, who had lived in them.

Maybe all the things that you know that are precious to you
Could be swept away by fate's own hand

Musubi began to think back at the dream that she had with Yume. The Sekirei of Fate had given her a lot to think about.

She would be sure to remember her savior. Fate had given her a chance, and she wouldn't lose to that dream.

We're blood brothers
We're blood brothers
We're blood brothers
We're blood brothers

Now, more voices raised when Jin sang. The music could be heard from the garden while they all sat back enjoying the music. Jin himself had a soft grin.

Even more, he continued on the song as there was a musical break. A bit of a break was there while he tuned it, and it was hard for Miya that one could use a guitar like that. It was good. She softly moved her head while she listened to them play.

The fires kept burning while Jin had the guitar. The four twins were even further away as he continued on the song.

When you think that we've used all our chances
And the chance to make everything right
Keep on making the same old mistakes

Ichika found the song was now even more on the girls. They kept on making the same mistakes, and they got even more chances. Was there a chance that would stop?

Makes untipping the balance so easy
When we're living our lives on the edge
Say a prayer on the book of the dead

That was something that all of them could relate to. Again, the music break was there. The lyrics could be sung now as they heard it. It played a bit farther while the smiles were on the song. It wasn't done yet, and it was clear he had been practicing. It sounded awesome. His feet tapped along on the music.

We're blood brothers
We're blood brothers
We're blood brothers
We're blood brothers
We're blood brothers
We're blood brothers
We're blood brothers
We're blood brothers

Now, no tried to hold themselves in. They sang along while Jin shouted out. The four didn't even wake up as Seo found himself around the two.

Minato smiled at Ichika. Motioning to sit closer, the boy shook his head. He was happy to sit there. Despite the only one alone, he was delighted. Somewhat relieved, enjoying how he felt, around them all.

And if you're taking a walk through the garden of life.

With that soft tone, Jin closed off the song. When the sound was made, it was quiet.

"To your liking?"

Soft applause ran out, not hoping to wake up the babies.

"Can we have one more?" Ichika asked, and Jin just shrugged while he looked at them.

"Very well. But I am not taking requests. And well, I think we'll make some rain."

The song began to play, and the first lines were soft like rain.

When I was wandering in the desert
And was searching for the truth

The guy grinned at them.

I heard a choir of angels calling out my name

Minato could only help but look at the girls.

I had the feeling that my life would never be the same again
I turned my face towards the barren sun

Jin looked up to the sky and found that there was no sun.

And I know of the pain that you feel the same as me
And I dream of the rain as it falls upon the leaves

At that, Minato and Ichika shared a look. The two went through a lot. They could relate.

And the cracks in our lives like the cracks upon the ground
They are sealed and are now washed away

Jin had a different set while he smiled.

You tell me we can start the rain
You tell me that we all can change

Miya found that the song was indeed fitting. She had changed. So in regards, Minato and his flock were her Rainmakers.

You tell me we can find something to wash the tears away

Yashima smiled at the new Ashikabi; He had washed her tears away. Jin smiled at her.

You tell me we can start the rain
You tell me that we all can change
You tell me we can find something to wash the tears

With a nod, Ichika found the eyes at him.

And I know of the pain that you feel the same as me
And I dream of the rain as it falls upon the leaves

Jin had no clue what Minato went through; neither did he with Ichika. He just played the song, and he was happy that the things looked up for a change.

And the cracks in the ground like the cracks are in our lives
They are sealed and now far away

The lyrics began again.

You tell me we can start the rain
You tell me that we all can change

Shigi had pulled Kuno close while Takano wrapped his arm around his girl.

You tell me we can find something to wash the tears away
You tell me we can start the rain

Takami inhaled her smoke; She wasn't going to die from cancer. Jin was good. She admitted that.

You tell me that we all can change
You tell me we can find something to wash the tears

The music break kicked in, and Minato found that the song was good. His finger tapped along, and Kusano was rocking her head.

Ichika just sat back and enjoyed the sound that came from Jin.

Thomas was good, the storage admitted.

You tell me we can start the rain
You tell me that we all can change

Ichika continued on the song while he sang along.

You tell me we can find something to wash the tears away
You tell me we can start the rain

Minato had an idea that this was something that Jin had chosen for a reason.

You tell me that we all can change
You tell me we can find something to wash the tears

The song was something fun to listen to.

And I know of the pain that you feel the same as me
And I dream of the rain as it falls upon the leaves

The sky had some clouds but not to the degree that they would have to be afraid of rain. But that any of them would say that was a bad thing.

And the cracks in the ground like the cracks are in our lives
They are sealed and now far away

The song ended, and with that, Jin stood up and bowed. "Maybe I'll play another song later. But for now, I need a drink."

And Jin got one. The talking began, and Seo hung on him to beg him to tell where he learned to play like that. So that at least, his sons would shut up when he was trying to sleep. Minato also made a note. Kusano was also asleep. After that, the seven families of Kaoru left.

The others stayed, and even with that, it was clear that hours were going by in the night. They lost track of time as the talking and soft celebrating going on.

But eventually, all of them felt the need to go home. When Minato looked at it, it was past two in the morning when the guests all went back home. Outside, they said goodbye. Ichika got a hug from Yukari, a few taps from Sanada, a ruffle from Takami, and the others also were out.

Kazehana yawned, and Kuno followed her example. 87 and 88 were on the talk on raising their kids next, but that was for later.

Shiina nodded to Ichika on treating Yukari well, and Yashima was happy to have met them. The ones who stayed behind just looked at the others—pleased for the party. It didn't take long before they found their beds.

Many hands made heavy work light, and quickly, they all took care of the table and mess. The most could be for later, and promptly, a bed was found. For Ichika, he couldn't wait for tomorrow. The days were fun and full of light. Not with the hardships that he usually spent with.

They all slept on that day, and before noon, no one was up. Or out of bed.

Ichika woke up alone in his room. Even in the futon, he was more at peace than in the beds of the ISA. His body was exhausted yet; his spirit was clean. He was happy with that; His smile was plastered over his face. The enjoyment was there. He had fun, and despite his body not going with it, his head was clear. His hands went behind his arms while he looked up to the ceiling. He had so much fun the last night.

With all the talking, the drinking, the eating, the guy was just so happy now. The times were just pleased here. This was such a change before compared to the usual stuff.

It seemed that Minato knew quite some friends. The song played in his head from last night. Take a walk through the garden of life.

He would have laid there for a while until he heard a knock.

"I'm up." Homura's head came from behind the door as she slid it open.

"Good morning, Ichika. We have something to eat. Want to have some?"

"Some bites might be nice. I could use a bit." In the room, the attendants who were gathered around the room.

Uzume, Matsu, Kazehana, and Chiho didn't even bother to be up. Musubi was tired, but she greeted Ichika with her usual spark.

Tsukiumi was also up, but she was still feeling the party. Kusano laid on Minato's lap, who gave his best friend a handshake as Ichika walked in with a yawn.

Homura took a seat at the table. Food was light, but coffee was readily available; All of them, besides Kusano, had steaming mugs. They sat back while the silence was around. Miya and Takehito were also up, but neither of them was awake. Ichika didn't know how Takehito tamed Miya. But the boy was greeted at him.

After the light breakfast, Ichika took the steaming cup and went to sit outside. Minato joined him quickly after he gave Kusano to Tsukiumi.

"I suppose that you aren't going to train today." The humor was soft in the voice while Ichika shook his head.

"I am not going to do that, brother. My body is killing me. But my head is clear. What about you?"

Minato downed the coffee while they sat outside. It would be another hot day. So the cool water in the pond was nice to cool off. Ichika smiled happily at his best friend. He still had a hard time believing that he was here with him.

"You really are lucky with your friends. Hey, I have meant to ask. Why they call you the Northern Ashikabi?" Minato had a wry smile on his face. That Plan. What a load of bullshit that was.

"It all started on that Plan Minaka thought out. There were four powerful Ashikabi's. Nishi Sanada, the guy you met last night. He was the Western Ashikabi. Mikogami Hayato from the South. Higa Izumi from the East. Only with Sanada, I had some things going on. Mikogami was a spoiled brat. Complex in nature and game freak."

"I take you had a tough time with him." The head turned to Kusano, who was still asleep. That rang in his head.

"We weren't off to a good start. Despite all things, Mikogami at least got a shred of morality. Sides me, he's also the only Ashikabi who winged Single Digits if you count out Miya and Karasuba, who was winged by Natsuo from MBI."

"Who's that? A Single Number, but she isn't around."

"I'll tell you because Miya isn't up yet. But first back to Mikogami. I winged five Single Numbers; he got two. Number Five, Mutsu, and Number Seven, formerly Scrapped, Akitsu. He got them all now. He's looking for bits about the other ships. I am not the only guy who had some good development during those times."

Minato and Mikogami buried the hatchet and left each other be now. As long they paid off their debt, he could let Mikogami take his course in life. Funny. If the guy was less of a brat, Minato might have helped him out.

"So that's one guy. Higa?" Ichika asked, now interested.

"Don't call that name out loud. It's a person that's high on the crap list of both Uzume and Chiho. Not that I blame them. You want the details?"

"Spare me. Bad guy."

"Yep. Unlike with Mikogami, who I have contact with every so often, I prefer that he leaves me alone now. I can't guarantee that I won't swing at him when I see him."

A whistle escaped Ichika.

"Must be one guy to get you riled up. I'll keep that in mind. Mind if I make a count? Number One is Miya if I believe you. Number Two and Number Three are Matsu and Kazehana, respectively. Number Five is Mutsu, you just mentioned. Number Six is Homura. Number Seven, as you said, is Akitsu. Come to think of it? What sort of Sekirei are those two?"

"Mutsu is using ground attacks. Pretty strong guy. I can work with him." Minato said, thinking about them.

"He's a man? Winged by another man?" Ichika wondered while Minato cringed. "Don't remind me. I bumped into him and Akitsu. Well, the age of consent is thirteen. He's now sixteen. And I don't blame him. I doubt that I am in no position to make remarks."

He certainly didn't bother about it. Mikogami was now old enough.

"So Number Nine is Tsukiumi? I miss Number Four and Eight." Minato pointed a thumb to Musubi.

"Number Eight was Yume. A story that Musubi will have to tell you. I won't spoil; That's one bad story. Number Four was Karasuba. Bloodthirsty psychopath without any morals. Not that I want to say that the girls you deal with are any better, but maybe Karasuba had one redeeming factor. She didn't lie about being a complete monster."

Now, Minato was open and brave enough to say that. It was a good thing that she didn't wake up. Right now, they had enough to deal with. But she was one thing, though. Karasuba. He just hoped that he would never end up like her.

"Better to be known an honest sinner than a lying hypocrite you mean? Brother, something else that came up in my head. I haven't seen Tabane after I went fishing. Your work? Like you telling me that the chance I wouldn't come home alive."

Ichika downed his own coffee.

"I wonder why some people call you an idiot. You got a good head on your shoulders. Matsu scared her off. I think that just like some, she got no regard for human life. At least, my genius has other things to do."

"You mean to tell me that your smart girl is a complete pervert. Well, that makes it easier to deal with her, I suppose." Ichika joked at him while Minato glared at him.

"Who'd you take? Tabane or Matsu?" The Ashikabi asked in a friendly tone.

"I take your genius over Tabane every day of the week. But aren't you afraid that she will come after you?" Ichika was now worried.

"What is she going to do? Send an Infinite Stratos after me? The Sekirei can take that one out. Hack in our systems. Matsu can stop her. Show up at our doorstep. There are a few who would like to come after her. I would think I need to install a line. And she has to leave you alone, or your sis finds out about the stuff. I wonder why Chifuyu is even friends with her."

"You're asking me. I am not a fan of her. I get why Houki or Chifuyu get pissed at her. Either way, what are you going to do with that knowledge?"

"Nothing. It's a thing above my paygrade. In the end, I live, the summer is going, the Silver Gospel is down, Tabane got torn a new one. So any plans you have?" Ichika asked.

"There's a summer festival going. Musubi would love to go to." Ichika noticed the tone that his brother was using.

"Something up?"

"The hosts are the Shinonono family. They're relatives of a certain brunette who all know and used to love."

"I am not going near that." Ichika used a deadpan voice as he heard that from Minato.

"Well, that was to be expected. Don't worry, though. The rest will stay here. Even if Houki finds the address, we got guards. And still. Besides, there is no telling if she is staying there." Minato pulled the guy in a sideways hug. Happy, the two stayed there.

Meanwhile, on a train.

Houki was looking at the photos she found in the attic. Ichika looked so cute on those. What had all happened during those times? Where had the times gone?

Why had he changed so much?

She never came on the idea that she might have been the one who changed.

---

Thanks for reading this chapter. Ichika got his summer, and we got ours now. I got no job, no festivals, nowhere to go, and nothing to do.

Perfect time to write things out

Also, no one took me up the offer on Empire of the Clouds. That is where I am grateful for. So nope. I am not repeating that.

It was one trip—a huge amount of fluff that I got to hear. Well, the chapters leading to this were rough.

The next chapter is going to be called "Different World." That is going to be some fun.

I don't have much else to say. This took a bit longer than I expected. Sorry about that.

The next update is Issei's adventures. Before I make my circle again, I am going to write on En Route.

Saluut.