I would think of myself as lazy, as I am on the third chapter of putting it through CHAT GTP. But I am just waiting until the message goes off and says that I have to wait until I can go again. Despite it being the weekend, I have enough to do.
So far, this was halfway done in the fic, but the last few have taken quite a bit longer. That'd be my job to explain. It's what it is.
Plus, when I had this in late October 2020, the site had the same issues as in April 2024. It's just my luck.
Shadows in the stars
We will not return
Humanity won't save us
We're slipping through the night
Started on 25/10/2020
Ended on 31/10/2020
Ichika's train was a night one, and despite the horrendous sleep he got, he was fresh of mind when he arrived back in his hometown.
Stepping off the train, he walked past the indifferent onlookers, the sword strapped to his back, attracting no comments. This was something Ichika wouldn't care about anyway. The city had mainly stayed the same. With his suitcase in tow, Ichika walked on, memories of the summer beginning to replay in his mind, making him yearn to return.
Nonetheless, he continued his walk. The house loomed as Ichika's thoughts drifted back. A smile appeared when he thought about how much he enjoyed the warmth of the summer there. Glancing at his wrist, he scowled at Byakushiki. For the entire summer, Matsu had taken it from him.
His hand moved to his back. The sword that Miya had gifted him wasn't a standard-sized katana. It was a bit shorter, which suited him well.
Eventually, the house loomed larger as Ichika approached and unlocked it. Bracing himself for any potential horrors inside, he was relieved to find the house clean. Stepping inside, he felt a wave of happiness at being home. He walked further, dropping his bags in the hallway.
Chifuyu was nowhere to be seen, but a note awaited him on the table.
Ichika. I hope you don't mind that I don't welcome you home.
Maybe it was for the best that you spent your summer at Minato's place.
Taking a break was a good thing for you.
I had to return early to the ISA to take care of the school.
I expect you tomorrow at school.
If you are wondering why the place is so clean, check the backside.
Ichika could agree that it was funny to see all those girls dressed up like that.
There was a postscript.
Ps. I love you.
Shaking his head, Ichika crumpled the note. It was easy to write those words down, but it took more work to show them.
It was still early, so Ichika had some time to sort his bags. He stored the clean clothes away in the suitcase and made sure there was enough room for his school essentials. There was no food in the house, aside from some cup ramen—his sister had terrible eating habits.
But there was nothing else, and Ichika did not want to go out for new supplies. So, while the washing machine was busy with his clothes, Ichika made his way to his room. The place was untouched. Lying back, he let the tears stream down.
He wasn't on the right side of heaven, and he wasn't on the side of the righteous in hell.
Lying in his bed, he fell asleep. Before long, he was back in the dream.
Line break. In the dream
"It looks like you have returned. You're closer to me now," a voice echoed. Unlike before, Ichika was calm.
"Who are you? What do you want from me?" Ichika asked, edging back as he noticed the blue glitter swirling around him.
"I am here for you. I want you. You can't hide from me. I will find you. There is no escape. I will hunt you down. You cannot call for help. You are alone. I own you."
Suddenly, a giant wall of water surged towards him. No, not one—two walls. He was trapped.
Ichika's hand instinctively slid to his back, relief flooding through him as he felt the familiar handle.
"You think?" Ichika challenged, drawing the sword and slicing through one of the walls. It collapsed. He stood before the breach, waiting in the pure darkness.
"Come to me," he called out, arms wide open as he stood alone. The darkness suddenly illuminated. A slender cat with a blue pelt approached him.
Then, something shifted within Ichika. He felt a surge of power coursing through his veins. A growl escaped his throat. The cat paused, and before long, it seemed as if a wolf within him had awakened.
Line break. Out of the dream
Ichika woke up in a cold sweat, glancing at his clock—it was twenty minutes to six. Rest eluded him, so he decided it was best to get up. Stretching out, he felt a momentary relief.
Despite the nightmare, he quickly made breakfast, though he realized he would miss the house. The place felt cold without laughter. Silence could be addicting, but when one missed human warmth, it was a different story altogether.
Before long, he made his way to school. His walk could be likened to one approaching the gallows. Eventually, the school loomed in sight. Ichika sighed as he entered, feeling the weight of inevitability.
It would be impossible to hide, but wearing a hoodie might help. Around the school, several girls were near the entrance, watching him. Ichika ignored them, even those who were desperately trying to get his attention.
As soon as he emerged, his heart sank further. There, in front of the entrance, stood Chifuyu Orimura.
"Orimura," he greeted her, not using her given name. She had harped on him all year about the proper way to address her. Two could play that game.
"Ms. Orimura. Any reason why you are standing here?" he asked. Chifuyu's eyebrow twitched in annoyance.
"Yes. We have an exceptional exchange student arriving from Europe," she replied. Ichika dreaded the prospect of another eccentric from that continent.
"The seventh princess of Luxembourg, Airis Twilight Ruxemburg. I expect you to be on your best behavior." Ichika met her gaze squarely and walked up to her, his anger palpable.
"That, dear sister, depends entirely on her," Ichika replied as he noticed the girl step off the train. Turning his head, he muttered curses under his breath—terms he had picked up from Seo and Jin.
If Ichika could say one thing, it was that she looked like a doll. Short indeed, but clad in an extravagant dress. He thought she might be like Rin, but if he were to guess, she bore more resemblance to Kusano or Chiho.
Someone to protect, to take care of. That simplicity made Ichika adore those two girls. But not this one. Her eyes zeroed in on Ichika as she spotted him.
"You there!" The girl pointed at him.
"Ichika Orimura," she declared. With a groan, Ichika shifted his focus from his sister to the girl.
"You shall be my attendant," she commanded. Ichika's gaze was cold as he looked down at her.
"Take a hike, runt." Not just Chifuyu's, but many jaws dropped as Ichika dismissed her.
"What?" Airis's big eyes widened further. Beside her, a cohort of maids glared at Ichika. The leader stepped forward with a murderous look.
"It is as Her Royal Highness commands." Ichika met her gaze fiercely. The summer had fortified him, giving him a backbone as strong as a diamond.
"Yeah, and I want a normal school life. The sooner the runt learns she can't always get what she wants, the better. And if you have a problem with that, too bad for you."
The maids surrounded him, but Ichika stood his ground.
"Sis!" He shouted. Chifuyu snapped out of her stupor, eyeing the transformed Ichika.
"Tell them to stand down!"
"Then follow her order!"
"No. I am not some runt's butler. Forget it. Tell these maids to stand down before I commit a massacre."
Ichika's left hand moved to his back, and his right deployed Yukihira. His sister realized he wasn't joking. One of the maids, the leader, attempted to slap him, but she quickly learned Ichika was no ordinary opponent. With the back of his sword, he knocked her off her feet, then kneed her in the stomach, bringing her to her knees. With one kick, she was flung away.
The Brunhilde watched in shock. While Ichika had always been defiant and snarky, it was the first time he had resorted to violence to make his point. The maids backed off as Ichika aimed the sword at Airis' throat. The princess was stunned, unable to believe Ichika would fight like this.
For the first time in fourteen years, this young man had said no to her and made his point clear.
"Last chance, runt. Stand down." She nodded to her maids, and they retreated. Ichika let Yukihira disappear as he glared at the girl.
"Because you're new here, I'm going to let you off with a warning. If you ever make such a command to me again, you're going to have a tough time using the bathroom." With that, Ichika walked away. He stopped by his sister.
"It looks like I made a mess. But I'm not going to listen to you." Chifuyu looked at her brother, or instead, at who her brother had become. Ichika had changed.
The unsheathing of a sword alerted Ichika. Turning, he saw a woman with pink hair brandishing her weapon. Ichika raised an eyebrow as she stood protectively next to the princess. Her imposing figure was knightly yet distinctly feminine.
"You? How dare you speak to her like that?" Ichika tossed his bags aside, ready for confrontation. His blood raced, his craving for a fight intensifying. He growled in response.
"And who might you be?" he challenged.
"I'm Djbril Emulail, Imperial Knight of Luxembourg. You heard the wish of her highness. You are to be her attendant," she stated firmly. Ichika looked as if weighing his options.
"Yeah, I don't think so. I see no reason to play babysitter to some runt. Names and titles mean nothing to me. She should learn that. But if you're looking for a fight," Ichika's hand moved towards his back, hinting at his readiness.
"Come and get it."
"Enough!" Chifuyu's roar echoed, instantly calming Ichika, who then turned to face his sister.
"Highness, I understand your wish, but this is Orimura's decision. There is nothing that can force him to comply. If he refuses, it might reflect poorly on his record," Chifuyu said, hoping Ichika would grasp the implication.
"Yeah, and I don't care. If it means not playing babysitter to some runt, I'm fine with that." Ichika began to walk away.
"It's not exactly polite to refuse a lady," Chifuyu called after him. Ichika turned, his glare as fierce as hers.
"And when have you ever seen me take your advice? Minato's more of a brother to me than you've ever been a sister," Ichika shot back. "He taught me that respect is earned."
Chifuyu looked stunned by his rebuke. Ichika continued walking, but inside, he was abuzz with energy, desperate to let off some steam.
And despite his defiance, Ichika got what he wanted – for a change.
Line break. In the arena
Rin was staggered by the sheer force that Ichika wielded.
"Ichika, damn. What did you eat last summer?" she exclaimed, bewildered. The knight remained silent as his moves were observed from the control room. Chifuyu watched intently, noting how Ichika's movements wasted no energy, his tactics more brutal than ever. Beside her, Maya's mouth hung open in shock.
"Orimura-sensei, where did Ichika learn that?" she whispered.
Chifuyu observed him closely. Despite his aggressive style, his actions were finesse and elegance reminiscent of only two others she knew: herself and Miya—that woman.
On the field, Ichika's assault was relentless. He gave Rin no quarter, closing in whenever she tried to create distance. Rin fired at him, but Ichika dodged effortlessly, his enjoyment evident though his expression remained impassive.
"I saw what you did with Airis. Where did you learn that, Ichika?" Rin called out during a brief lull, but he didn't respond, swiftly closing the distance once more. She countered with her spear, but Ichika, anticipating her move, deftly flew around her.
Chifuyu's throat went dry as Ichika launched a flank attack, swiftly forcing Rin's arms apart and driving his sword down with tremendous force. Rin was knocked to the ground, and a buzzer sounded—Ichika had won.
Chifuyu was astounded. Sure, it was a mock fight, but Ichika had proven himself like never before. His growing brutality, especially as he drew closer to victory, was unnerving.
Ichika seemed content as he walked to his changing room. He had yet to expend too much energy and had honed a system that clearly worked for him.
Yet, this wasn't like his usual training sessions. These were the fruits of his efforts. Ichika knew he had his sisters-in-law to thank for this transformation. Shaking his head, he smiled to himself.
But fighting wasn't the only skill Ichika had honed. As he was savoring the remnants of his triumph, an unexpected presence approached from behind. Someone's hands covered his eyes, sending a shiver down his spine.
"Oh, too bad. I wanted to surprise you," a voice said playfully.
Ichika's mouth tightened. "I don't do well with surprises. Who are you?" he demanded, irritation coloring his tone. The thrill of victory evaporated. This woman was uncomfortably familiar.
She was curvaceous, reminiscent of Djbril, yet younger. Her short blue hair framed striking red eyes and her appearance could easily distract, even in uniform.
She sported a yellow tie indicating she was a second-year student, and her attire was modified slightly with a green overcoat. She pointed a blue fan at him.
Despite her attractive features, Ichika was unnerved.
'Cat,' he thought abruptly.
"Later!" she quipped, offering no further explanation.
"By the way, if you don't hurry up, you'll be in trouble with Orimura-sensei." Ichika's gaze snapped to the clock. Only ten minutes he remained. Hastily, he changed, but just as he was ready to leave, another annoyance greeted him.
"Didn't you have enough last morning? Get a hobby," Ichika groaned as Airis and Djbril approached him.
Djbril positioned herself in front of her lady, her gaze sharp as she addressed Ichika. "You dare to disrespect the lady of the house of Luxembourg." Ichika merely shrugged off her indignation.
"I have dined at the table of a being far more powerful than all of us combined. Do you really think some brat is going to make me bow to her?"
"Miya Asama, correct?" Djbril's mention of the name caused Ichika's hand to inch toward his sword, his eyes revealing a flicker of shock. Taking a deep breath, he composed himself, knowing full well that Miya could handle most threats and Minato would still be at the inn.
"Where did you get that name?" Ichika's tone was cautious, aware that some matters were better discussed openly.
"You really think we would come to this school unprepared? There's so much information about her on the Internet. And your so-called brother, Minato Sahashi. If he is someone you consider a friend, I dread to think what standards you were raised with," Djbril sneered.
Ichika felt his irritation surge, his blood boiling. "So let me guess. You found out about Minato, read that he married six aliens, got himself a harem, and he's a pervert and a horrible person, blah, blah, blah. You girls are all the same. I've heard those lines before."
Now, it was Djbril's turn to be taken aback. "Yes, indeed. I wonder what sort of man he is. And to think that you would associate yourself with him."
Ichika rolled his eyes. "I've heard it before. You want me to give up my friendship with him because you think he's a bad influence. Well, I've got news for you. Minato is the reason I am here. I'm done with your nonsense." He tried to move past them, but Djbril blocked his path.
"Perhaps you should listen to what Her Highness has to say. After all, I doubt you want anything bad to happen to your brother," she said ominously.
"What did you say?" Ichika's voice dropped to a dangerous low.
"We looked up a bit more information. It turns out that Minato Sahashi is moving out of Maison Izumo. There might be a reason for that," Djbril hinted darkly.
"Perhaps. But I see no reason to share that," Ichika retorted, masking his concern. He knew the reason for Minato's move, and if these two were so confident, they likely did as well.
"I guess so. Perhaps the new Sekirei will come to see the light," Djbril said with a sadistic smirk.
"It would be horrible if something happened to him," Airis added ominously.
Ichika's hands edged closer to his sword, his mind racing as he backed away from them, not fully comprehending what happened next.
No sooner had the words left her mouth than Airis was hurled against the wall. Djbril was swiftly kicked away as Ichika grabbed Airis by the scruff of her shirt, his eyes ablaze with a fierce fire. A low growl rumbled from his throat.
"Your fight, runt, is with me. Not with my brother or his wives. I doubt you can truly harm them. Consider this a warning: don't involve Minato because of me. If it's me you want, I'm right here. But remember, the Alaska Treaty doesn't stop Sekirei." Dropping her abruptly, Ichika sprinted towards his class.
What were ten minutes if it meant protecting his brother?
"You're late," Chifuyu remarked as Ichika burst into the classroom, his demeanor showing no sign of remorse.
"Blame the runt. She held me up," Ichika retorted, his gaze fixed on the door.
"That is no way to talk about the seventh princess of Luxembourg," Chifuyu scolded.
"I'll speak about her as I please," Ichika replied, stifling a yawn.
"That's not how I raised you," his sister countered.
"No. It's something I learned from Minato. Respect must be earned," Ichika shot back, his expression one of disgust. "And that's something I see no reason to extend to you or that runt. She kept me up. Take it up with her."
"Oh, and is that the reason you are late? Dunois, prepare for Rapid Switch training. The target will be this idiot. Don't mind," Chifuyu commanded, dismissing the reason for his lateness. Ichika sighed, turning to Charlotte, who stood with a confident smile and activated her Infinite Stratos.
"Charl, I'm going to give you a recommendation. Put those guns away," he said calmly, despite the tension.
"What did you say, Orimura-kun?" Charlotte asked, her smile unwavering.
Ichika's hands edged to his back as he gritted his teeth, feeling the echoes of his summer training. "Charl, last warning. Put those guns away. It will hurt you more than me." His voice carried a dark edge, which she chose to ignore.
"Let us begin. Revive." Before she could respond further, the sound of a sword unsheathing sliced through the air. Metal clashed against metal, and the classroom was filled with the noise of vicious strikes. Moments later, Charlotte's gun lay destroyed, and Ichika sheathed the sword gifted by Miya.
The girls in the classroom looked horrified as Ichika had cut through the guns as if they were made of tissue paper. Charlotte staggered back, staring at her ruined unit.
"I warned you," Ichika stated, the sheathed sword still projecting a menacing aura.
Turning to Chifuyu, he pointed the sword at her, his gaze sharp. The rift between them had only deepened. Despite Miya's teachings, Ichika distanced himself further.
Not that she could blame him.
"Next time you pull that stunt, it's going to be a bloodbath," he declared, securing the sword on his back.
"Who gave you that sword?" Chifuyu inquired, her voice tense, recognizing the style of the strikes.
"Miya Asama. The landlady from Maison Izumo and the Pillar of the Sekirei. She was kind enough to teach me a few things during my stay with her," Ichika responded, his tone cold as he returned to his seat, ignoring Charlotte.
"I've learned more from her in a month than I did in this school," he stated firmly, meeting Chifuyu's eyes with a challenging glare. "And she's a kinder teacher than you."
Chifuyu knew it had to be Miya—always a formidable presence. Now, she understood the depths of Ichika's new capabilities.
As luck would have it, a meeting of the entire student body was already scheduled. Ichika stood before them, and a board behind him displayed the reason for the assembly.
Line break. School assembly
At the school assembly, a robotic voice announced the next speaker. "Now, the student council president will explain the details." The woman Ichika had spotted earlier in the changing room walked onto the stage—'Cat,' he thought again, his dreams momentarily flashing through his mind.
"Okay, okay, I had to deal with a lot this year so I couldn't say hello to everyone properly. My name's Tatenashi Sarashiki and I'm your Student Council President. Nice to meet you all," she introduced herself with a wink directed at Ichika, eliciting a weary sigh from him.
'Great, another one.' Was this how Minato felt as he winged more Sekirei?
The display behind her changed to "Agenda: School Festival." Tatenashi continued, "Now, concerning the school festival this month, I wish you all much luck in deciding what your classes will do. The deadline is coming up soon. Also, there is one more thing." Ichika tensed, a sense of foreboding settling in.
The screen flashed a new announcement: "Every club fights for the guy." Ichika gritted his teeth in frustration.
The auditorium erupted into noise. "Please, everyone, settle down," Tatenashi urged, and the crowd eventually quieted.
"Every year, clubs set up booths for our school anniversary and hold voting events. The school also provides special funds to the leading clubs. But I thought that would be too boring this year. So, this year, we're introducing a challenge. The class that comes up with the best booth will win Ichika Orimura as a prize."
Tatenashi smirked as she looked at Ichika. Instead of appearing flustered, as she might have expected, Ichika looked visibly annoyed. This was just great as if dealing with the original five wasn't enough pain.
'Great. Now I have a second-year bimbo after me and a stuck-up princess. I long for the quiet corner I once knew so well.'
Line break
The atmosphere was thick with Ichika's mounting frustration. The suggestions on the whiteboard were enough to send him over the edge, and the girls' pleased expressions only added fuel to his ire.
'One Male Host Club,' 'Play Twister with Ichika Orimura,' 'Eating Biscuit Sticks with Ichika Orimura,' and 'Play King's Game with Ichika Orimura.'
"Are you all out of your minds? Do you think these ideas are even remotely appropriate? What makes you think I would find any of this enjoyable?" he exploded.
The girls seemed taken aback by his vehement rejection. "I would enjoy it! I promise!" one of the girls retorted eagerly.
"That's right, that's right! You have to serve the girls until they're happy! You are in our class, and it's your duty towards us as classmates," another added, her lengthy hair swishing as she spoke.
A third girl, wearing glasses, chimed in assertively, "Ichika is our common property!"
The room fell silent as Ichika unsheathed his sword, his action cutting through the chatter like a sharp intake of breath. "Oh, really? I am not anyone's property. And in case you forgot my words from last morning," he said, his voice icy with serious intent.
"I am willing to turn this class into a bloodbath. Unless one of you comes up with a decent idea, I am willing to pull us from this whole thing." Ichika's threat hung in the air, a stark reminder of his resolve.
Unexpectedly, a rational suggestion came from Laura, a development Ichika would never have anticipated.
"How about a maid café?" she proposed, immediately catching everyone's attention. Ichika, unable to contain his relief, shouted, "Thank you! I agree with that!"
"It should be popular among customers. We can earn revenue by selling food and drinks. I remember that outsiders could enter the school through an invitational ticket system, so many people wanted a place to rest," Laura elaborated. Her reasoning was met with nods and murmurs of approval.
Charlotte, standing next to her, chimed in, "I think it's a good idea. Why don't we have Ichika working as a butler or in the kitchen?" She began persuading the other girls, and Ichika, sensing a far more tolerable option than the previous suggestions, kept his mouth shut. This was looking much better.
"What do we do about the maid uniforms?" one of the girls asked.
"I know how to sew," another volunteered.
"We could get maid outfits from the drama club. I can adjust them if needed," a third offered. The girls quickly rallied around the idea, their chatter growing into an excited consensus.
"Okay, we go for a maid café! Has everyone agreed?" one girl stood and called out.
"We agree!"
"I can live with that," Ichika admitted, relief washing over him as the girls buzzed with plans and preparations.
Content with the turn of events, Ichika relaxed back in his chair, a satisfied smile spreading across his face. With that, he walked out of the classroom, whistling a tune, finally happy with how things were unfolding.
As Ichika stepped outside, he encountered the blue-haired president, Tatenashi Sarashiki, who had earlier stirred up the assembly.
"Can I help you?" Ichika asked, eyeing the woman standing before him.
"I'm going to be your teacher for a bit," Tatenashi announced her tone light but firm.
Ichika looked surprised but not overly so. He crossed his arms, contemplating his response. "Who decided that? My sis? Besides, I had a whole summer of training. I don't think I need a new teacher now."
Tatenashi's smile widened, and it unnervingly resembled the one from his dream. "No, you're still weak. Very weak." Her words were a challenge, an assertion that piqued Ichika's pride.
Ichika's hand instinctively moved to the sword on his back, a gesture that didn't go unnoticed. "You do not want this fight," he said, his glare intensifying.
"Oh, I'm pretty sure I do," Tatenashi countered confidently, her gaze locked on his.
"And I am pretty sure that I come out on top," she added, her confidence palpable as she aimed her flier at him. The tension between them crackled, charged with the promise of confrontation.
"Okay, call the place and time," Ichika said, his voice steady. He accepted the challenge.
The agreed-upon location was the kendo dojo, set for thirty minutes later. As Ichika walked away, his thoughts were a mix of apprehension and determination. This was not just a physical test but a measure of his growth since his last summer of intense training.
Ichika, dressed in a fighting kimono, stood poised and ready in the kendo dojo. Across from him, Tatenashi buzzed with energy, her confidence almost tangible in the air. The dojo floor had been replaced with a mat, signaling the seriousness of their upcoming about.
A slight tick appeared on Tatenashi's face as she watched Ichika yawn. His demeanor was one of boredom, yet his eyes were sharp and focused on her. "Are you coming at me?" he asked, his voice calm after another yawn.
"Well, here are the rules. If you knock me to the ground, even once, you win," Tatenashi declared, setting the stakes.
Ichika raised an eyebrow, recalling one of the essential lessons from Miya: it was better to be humble and overestimate an opponent than to be cocky. "Fine."
"If I render you unable to continue, I win," she continued. Ichika nodded in response, unshaken by her confidence.
"You really don't take me seriously, do ya?" she teased, trying to prod at his composure.
That remark irked Ichika more than the challenge itself. He was used to facing opponents like Musubi, Miya, or Tsukiumi, where he knew the odds were against him, but they never underestimated him. Tatenashi's demeanor, however, suggested she saw him as insignificant—a mere annoyance.
"Don't worry. I'll win," Ichika stated firmly, cracking his knuckles and relaxing his stance, readying himself physically and mentally for the fight.
"Going to tell you the same thing I told Rin a while ago. Don't count your chickens before they hatch," he warned, echoing a previous confrontation.
Tatenashi smiled in response, unbothered and perhaps even more amused by his resolve.
"Come at me whenever you are ready," Tatenashi taunted, her voice steady and confident. But Ichika didn't move as expected. Instead of a direct frontal attack, he came from the side, his movements a blur. Before Tatenashi could even register the shift, Ichika's kick struck her from the side. Although she managed to block the initial attack, she couldn't secure his leg as he swiftly pulled away.
In a fluid motion, Ichika seized her right arm, twisting it upwards in a controlled yet forceful manner. Rather than executing a traditional judo throw, he opted for a quick punch to her stomach, catching her off guard.
Twisting her around, he grabbed her kimono, maintaining control as she reeled from the shock and the rapid succession of vicious strikes. Rather than throwing her to the ground, Ichika unleashed a series of savage punches from below, demonstrating ruthless efficiency.
"I trained all summer under the Sekirei," Ichika revealed, his voice low but fierce, as he adjusted his grip and maneuvered her arm, setting her body up for a throw to the floor.
Tatenashi, however, was quick to react. She halted her descent using her elbow as a pivot, swinging her legs to counterattack from the side. Ichika anticipated this and released her, stepping back to give both some space and reset the dynamics of their confrontation.
"I would advise you to take this seriously," Tatenashi retorted, her body tensing as she prepared for the next move, her glare sharp and focused.
"How about an extra bet, Tatenashi?" Ichika proposed, seizing the moment before she could launch another attack.
"Oh?" she responded, curiosity piqued despite the intensity of their exchange.
"This doesn't end when I get you on your back. This ends when one of us is no longer able to fight," Ichika declared, setting the stakes higher. Tatenashi studied him for a moment, her glare intensifying. It was a bold challenge, particularly considering how the last thirty seconds had unfolded.
Tatenashi's response was a nod, a silent acknowledgment of the heightened stakes.
"Fine. You should know this." Tatenashi shifted her footing back, her stance indicating readiness to launch a powerful strike.
Ichika, poised and calm, allowed her to continue speaking before making any move. "The Student Council President in this school. That student is the strongest here," she declared, her tone suggesting this was a well-established fact.
Ichika couldn't help but chuckle in response. "Really? Well, I hope that you'll never have to face a Sekirei in a fight," he said, a wry smile playing on his lips. The notion seemed to amuse him more than intimidate.
In a flash, Tatenashi's fist rocketed upwards in a savage uppercut aimed squarely at Ichika, perhaps to wipe the smirk off his face. But Ichika didn't go down.
Instead, he caught her arm mid-strike, much to her astonishment. There was a good reason he could stand firm.
Ichika held her firmly in place with one hand. "You might be strong. But during the summer, I trained on two other things: stamina and endurance."
He then used his free hand to deliver a sharp backhand strike with his knuckles. Dazed by the hit, Tatenashi was vulnerable as he followed up with a kick.
"And let's just say, my sisters-in-law gave me quite the roughhousing," Ichika continued, his tone severe but with a hint of respect for the grueling training he endured.
While the strikes from his Sekirei sisters-in-law were never meant to incapacitate, they were intense enough to boost his resilience and fighting prowess significantly.
"They exercised their strength during training, not to dangerous degrees, and trust me, I'd never want to face Musubi in a real fight."
This sparring revealed more than just Ichika's physical training; it was a testament to how much he had learned about pacing, power, and the delicate art of control.
The difference in strength and technique between a human and a Sekirei was significant, and though Ichika never complained, he certainly felt the gap.
But today, in this dojo, against Tatenashi, he was more than holding his own. The training had prepared him not just to withstand hits but to understand and anticipate his opponent's strategy.
As the fight intensified, Tatenashi felt the full force of Ichika's kick connect with precision. Reeling from the impact, she was flung out of the ring but managed to crawl back up, her resolve undeterred but clearly shaken.
Ichika, maintaining his distance, eyed her calculatingly. He could have gone for a straightforward punch, but instead, he chose a more strategic approach.
Closing the distance rapidly, he delivered a powerful elbow strike, using such force that Tatenashi was once again sent sprawling beyond the boundaries of the ring.
Regaining her footing, Tatenashi was baffled. Ichika had undoubtedly grown more muscular, but the ease with which he was handling the fight seemed almost surreal.
From behind, Ichika's smirk was visible as he harnessed inner energy, growling lowly in a display of fierce determination reminiscent of the legendary Bear-Fisted Sekirei, Musubi. Today, however, he was the wolf of the dojo.
"Again?" Ichika's voice cut through the air as Tatenashi charged back into the fray. Anticipating her move, he skillfully dodged and used his momentum to roll over and deliver a swift kick that sent her tumbling once more.
He was quick to leverage his position, capturing Tatenashi from behind and executing a perfect bridge move, forcing her to the ground with a thud.
"Are you giving up yet?" he shouted, but Tatenashi was quick to react, seizing his arms in a counter hold. For a moment, it seemed she might have the upper hand, but Ichika's free legs allowed him a momentary advantage, and with a strategic kick, he broke free from her grasp.
This wasn't just a training match.
It was a battle to assert dominance. Locking her head under his arm, Ichika applied a tight headlock, his connected hands demonstrating the raw strength he had honed. Tatenashi struggled fiercely; her strength was formidable but momentarily outmatched.
With a sudden move, she managed to throw Ichika off, sending him airborne. He executed a skillful somersault, landing agilely on his feet. As Tatenashi rose more slowly this time, Ichika didn't hesitate. He launched a flurry of punches, each blow backed by the lessons learned from his summer training. Not just relying on his fists, Ichika incorporated kicks, mixing his attacks as Tatenashi tried desperately to defend.
Blocking her counterpunch with his foot, Ichika's next move was a devastating double fist strike from above, a "sledgehammer" blow that knocked her back down.
"As I mentioned, I trained with Sekirei. I learned endurance and how to take hits. They taught me restraint—something crucial," Ichika stated, breathing heavily from the exertion.
The fight had drawn an audience; schoolgirls and even Chifuyu, his sister, had gathered. The crowd was silent, their expressions ranging from shock to awe as they witnessed the student council president succumb to Ichika's relentless assault.
Walking past his sister, Ichika didn't acknowledge her stunned gaze. His focus was singular—this fight was a declaration of his capabilities, and as he walked away, his every step resonated with the weight of his victory.
"If this is the toughest that the ISA has to offer, pray brother doesn't send his girls," Ichika remarked with a dismissive tone as he stepped away from the defeated Tatenashi. His words hung in the air, underscoring the vast gap between his recent opponents and the training he had undergone.
Pausing, Chifuyu felt the rift between her and her brother widen even further. "Because I trained under them, and even when they took it easy, it was harder than what this girl threw at me,"
Ichika continued, his voice carrying a mix of pride and challenge. With a final, pointed look at Tatenashi's crumpled form—the most robust student at the school defeated as though she were a novice—Ichika left the dojo.
Chifuyu lingered, observing the aftermath of the brutal showdown. Despite the intensity of the battle, Ichika seemed unaffected, his demeanor as calm as if he had merely been sparring lightly.
After leaving the dojo, Ichika headed out to train with his Infinite Stratos. He pushed himself hard, determined to refine his skills further. Yet, he was mindful to conserve some energy for his homework and other responsibilities—the life of a young male pilot was never simple.
As he made his way to his next training session, he encountered Laura, who had been searching for him. "Ichika," she called out, catching up to him.
"Laura. Something you need?" he asked, noting the seriousness in her approach.
"Yes. I am here to train with you," she stated plainly. Ichika crossed his arms, his body tensing slightly, wary of her intentions.
"Why? I don't think you need to do that," he replied, skeptical of her motives.
Laura moved as if to pull out a knife, but Ichika was quicker. He caught her by the wrist, his grip firm. "Don't. I've got that sword on my back. I don't think you want a repeat of what happened in the classroom," he warned, his tone even but firm, reminding her of his capabilities.
Laura relented, her posture softening as she realized the futility of challenging him further. "I am the most capable of training you," she insisted, though her confidence seemed shaken.
Ichika shook his head, dismissing her offer. "Go to the kendo studio. I worked someone into the ground," he said, hinting at his recent victory over Tatenashi without the need for further demonstration.
With that, Ichika continued on his path, leaving Laura behind, his focus clear and his resolve unwavering.
At the arena, Ichika encountered Cecilia and Charlotte stretching, preparing themselves for what seemed like a routine training session.
"What are you doing here?" Ichika inquired, slightly puzzled by their presence.
"I heard that you were going to have special training with Laura in Arena 4," Cecilia replied, her curiosity piqued. Ichika shrugged off the comment, recalling his recent encounter.
"Well, I had some 'teacher' I worked into the ground," he quipped, his mind replaying his victory over the Student Council President. The girls looked intrigued.
"Who?" Charlotte asked, her interest evident.
"The Student Council President. Do either of you two mind having a match with me?" Ichika proposed, challenging the girls directly.
"I want to fight," Charlotte declared promptly.
"I am more than capable," Cecilia added, not wanting to be left behind. Ichika sighed, knowing the competitive spirit of both well.
"Okay, then. I'll fight with Charlotte first, and after that, I'll have a match with you, Cecilia," he decided, deploying his Infinite Stratos and assessing his opponents.
Charlotte nodded, her expression serious as she activated her unit. "Come at me whenever you are ready," she invited, poised and ready.
Ichika didn't hesitate. Drawing his Yukihira first, he dashed towards her. Charlotte began to fire at him, but Ichika hung back, choosing instead to build distance.
This reminded him of his match with Tsukiumi, who relied on long-range attacks. Rather than confronting those attacks head-on, Ichika opted to evade, a strategy that worked well given Tsukiumi's ability to control her attacks—something Charlotte lacked with her bullets.
Cecilia watched in awe as Ichika used his speed to dodge the shots effortlessly. Charlotte was fast, but her tendency to remain stationary made her predictable.
Seizing an opportunity, Ichika deployed Reiraku Byakuya, benefiting from the substantial energy increase Matsu had engineered into the system.
This allowed him to absorb the incoming fire while maneuvering into position. Executing a practiced 45-degree turn—a maneuver he had been refining—Ichika charged at Charlotte like a wrecking ball.
He tore through her defenses as if she were made of tissue paper, a testament to the aggressive, efficient strategy Miya had ingrained in him during their training. 'That was what Miya meant with making it fast,' he thought as Charlotte fell to the ground, defeated.
"Cecilia, what are you waiting for?" Ichika called out, his tone laced with a challenge as Cecilia prepared her Blue Tears unit. She faced him squarely, a determined look in her eyes, but Ichika was already in motion, his strategy clear.
Unlike others who preferred ranged weapons, Ichika thrived in close combat, wielding his sword with precision and ferocity trained into him by Miya. He knew well the art of shaping every fight to his advantage, turning even the most disadvantageous situations in his favor.
As Cecilia unleashed her drones, designed to trap and encumber him, Ichika demolished them effortlessly with his sword, slicing through them as quickly as he had the walls of water in previous training sessions. He reveled in the realization of his enhanced strength, a testament to his rigorous training.
Cecilia attempted to fire at him, but Ichika, now adept at close-quarters battle, quickly maneuvered around her, dodging her bullets with ease. He couldn't help but compare this to his past spars with Tsukiumi, who had posed a far more significant challenge. A fleeting thought crossed his mind—he should have invited the other girls to join the fight to push him further.
But wishes were for later; action was for now. Closing the distance rapidly, Ichika confronted Cecilia head-on, much like he had with Charlotte, and swiftly brought her down.
"That's all you girls got? Too bad," he taunted lightly, a smirk playing on his lips as he activated the virtual races module that Matsu had developed for him. Soaring through the arena, Ichika displayed an impressive blend of speed, agility, and precision. The enhancements to his Infinite Stratos unit, courtesy of Matsu's genius, were evident in every move he made.
Cecilia and Charlotte, both now spectators, watched in awe as Ichika navigated the course with ease. The distance between them seemed to expand with each maneuver. It was clear that his time away had only broadened the gap in skill and mindset.
No longer the reserved or subtly defiant student, Ichika now stood confidently, a testament to his newfound independence and strength. His ability to stand alone, backed by formidable skills honed under the tutelage of the Sekirei, marked a significant transformation. The rift that had widened during his absence was not just a physical distance but a gap in capability and resolve.
When Ichika walked back into his changing room, he was greeted by a new but familiar sight. A girl with blue hair and red eyes stood before him. She wasn't as voluptuous as Tatenashi, but the resemblance was unmistakable. Could she be a relative?
"So, you're the guy who defeated my sister?" The words snapped Ichika back to the present as he processed her appearance and question. His mind quickly connected the dots—sister, same hair, and eyes.
"You talking about Sarashiki? Yeah, I defeated her. If she is supposed to be the best pilot in the school, I really despair." Her gaze intensified as she looked at him, her eyes not just evaluating but also curious, unlike the typical reactions he got from other girls.
"Who are you?" Ichika asked, not expecting an elaborate answer.
"Kanzashi Sarashiki. You're Ichika Orimura, best friend and 'little brother' of Minato Sahashi, the Ashikabi of the North. Winner of The Sekirei Plan, winged by No.02-Matsu, No.03-Kazehana, No.06-Homura, No.09-Tsukiumi, No.88-Musubi, and No.108-Kusano. You spent the entire summer at Maison Izumo, owned by No.01-Miya and her husband, Takehito Asama," Kanzashi replied, listing off his connections with precision.
Ichika raised an eyebrow. "You did your homework. But you missed something. Minato is also Co-Ashikabi of Number 10, Uzume, winged by Chiho Hidaka," he corrected her.
"I was under the suspicion that Sekirei could only be winged once," Kanzashi admitted, her voice tinged with curiosity.
Ichika shrugged, a hint of a smirk on his face. "Minato's situation is unique because his feelings for both Uzume and her Ashikabi are mutual. It's unusual, but it works. I'm surprised you know so much about him."
Kanzashi was different from most girls.
"If you know your enemy,"
"Guess so. Still, why are you here? I doubt this is a friendly visit." Kanzashi's eyes shined at him.
"My sister is the strongest in this school. Maybe right behind your sister, perhaps. Yet, you defeated her. Without much effort. I want to know how." Ichika understood that Kanzashi wasn't after him like Airis, Tatenashi, or the other girls.
"I had to use some effort, but I trained an entire summer—good practice for both the Sekirei and me. For me, to grow in strength, for them to hold back. Still, what's that to you?" Ichika crossed his arms and leaned against the wall.
Kanzashi looked him straight in the eye.
"I want to know how you are that cool under fire. You both mouthed the Princess of Luxembourg, and you threw my sister down. You didn't care about anything or how it would look. You just went your way."
Ichika smiled at her, a smile that carried no happiness.
Kanzashi absorbed Ichika's words, her gaze reflective, considering the more profound implications behind his statements about defiance and survival.
"I am selfish because I refuse to bow to the status quo. Perhaps. But I am not here of my own volition. I am here because I am forced to. Yet, I learned squat in the last year, which would help me. I am supposed to bow down to some girls. You can forget that." Ichika's voice carried a quiet intensity, his frustration with the constraints placed upon him palpable.
"You've got quite a record if I might say so. Ichika, you've defeated a Representative Candidate based on information, got out of a training incident, stopped the Valkyrie Incident, and even took down the Silver Gospel. Now, you defeated the heir of the Sarashiki family. Impressive," Kanzashi summarized, her voice tinged with both admiration and a hint of envy at his litany of achievements.
Ichika shrugged a gesture that belied the weight of his experiences.
"A lot comes from a cyber Guardian Angel. Matsu watched over me, and I am grateful for that. And during the summer, I trained with Musubi and Tsukiumi. I even took lessons from Miya Asama herself. I've gotten strong. Yet, why are you here? If you think I'll bow to you, you're out of your mind."
Kanzashi sighed, the sound heavy in the quiet of the changing room.
"Nothing. Just that. You have to look over your shoulder from now on," she warned, though there was no malice in her voice, only a resignation to the realities they both faced.
Ichika gave her a mirthless chuckle. "I've had to do that since I got that bracelet on my arm. Don't need you to tell me that," he retorted, his smile devoid of warmth as he turned back to face her.
"Kanzashi, I've got enough women's problems so far. I don't need another girl," he concluded, his tone final, leaving no room for further discussion.
The only thing Ichika wanted to do now was lie in his bed and enjoy some time off.
But when he opened the door, his gaze found Tatenashi, taking in the sight before him. Yes, she was attractive, but the scenario she presented—a cliché right out of a fantasy designed to disarm—had little effect on him.
"Welcome home. Do you want dinner, a bath, or do you want me?" Tatenashi's voice was playful, perhaps too confident in her appeal, which, in any other context, might have disconcerted a lesser-experienced teenager.
Despite her visual appeal and the apparent intent behind her words, Ichika's response was incredible and unyielding. "I want to know what you're doing here. This is my room."
Tatenashi, still draped in her apron, didn't immediately respond, her eyes assessing Ichika's reaction or the lack thereof. It was clear she had expected a different outcome, perhaps a flustered or embarrassed Ichika—a reaction she might have received from almost any other student at the academy.
Yet, Ichika wasn't just any student. His summer with the Sekirei had fortified him in unexpected ways, not just physically but emotionally and mentally. Living among beings of extraordinary power and allure had recalibrated his perceptions and reactions to seduction and emotional manipulation.
The closeness that he experienced with them made his heart warm, and he loved them for that.
Tatenashi shifted slightly, the playful smirk fading into a more severe line. "I thought maybe you'd appreciate some... hospitality after your training. A way to... congratulate you on your victories," she explained, but her voice lacked conviction.
"I want to know what you're doing here. This is my room."
"Too bad. That's not on the table. So do you want me? Do you want me? Or do you want me?" Tatenashi teased, getting closer to his face and winking suggestively.
"I want to know how you got up so fast in this room. I handed your butt to you," Ichika countered, unamused by her advances.
Tatenashi sighed, realizing that her usual tactics weren't having the desired effect on Ichika. "I am going to be your roommate," she declared, trying a different approach.
Ichika rolled his eyes at her announcement. It wasn't the kind of teasing he was used to from Uzume. "Fine. In that case, wear something appropriate, or I'm going to kick you out. By the way, how can you stay here?"
"That's the power of the Student Council President," Tatenashi replied with a smile, trying to lighten the mood.
"That's fine and all, but I defeated you. So change or get out. I am surprised that you're not cold," Ichika retorted as he passed her with a reluctant sigh.
"Well, I am wearing something underneath," Tatenashi said, revealing a few strings of a bikini, making it clear she wasn't as exposed as she seemed.
"Too bad. Are you disappointed?" Ichika glanced around the room, noticing that she had already unpacked. "Not really. As I said, summer with Sekirei." He acknowledged that her physique was impressive, but his experiences had changed his responses.
Sitting at his computer, Ichika started to prepare for his email.
"What are you going to do?" Tatenashi asked, trying to spark another conversation as she crossed her arms, her smile returning.
"I'm going to write an email," Ichika responded as he settled in his chair.
"To whom?" She edged closer, curiosity piqued.
"Well, before that. I am just wondering. I don't have to train under you, right?" Ichika asked, hoping to clarify the terms of their new living arrangement.
Tatenashi smiled, making his skin crawl. The five girls were one thing; this new arrangement with her was something else entirely.
"Well, I talked with Orimura-sensei. It appears that you don't know that many strategies, so I have told her and the principal to train you," Tatenashi informed Ichika, who turned to look at her with a skeptical expression.
"Well, I'm going to talk with my sis in that case. I am not going back on this. Besides, I need a sparring partner," Ichika responded as he sat back and opened his email, cracking his knuckles in preparation.
"You need a strategy to win. And you don't have a lot of that," Tatenashi remarked, trying to provoke a reaction.
"I got strength. And if I want strategy, I got two geniuses to call," Ichika retorted confidently.
"You're writing Minato Sahashi, right? I am surprised you see that man as a friend. What a pervert," Tatenashi scoffed.
Ichika looked back at her and raised an eyebrow. "I think you're the bigger pervert. You are the one dressed in an apron and a bikini." Realizing she was still wearing that, Ichika groaned, "Can you, for the love of God, please change?"
A knock on his door diverted their attention.
"Ichika, it's me. Are you there?" a voice called from outside.
"Houki. Yeah, you can enter," Ichika responded, causing Tatenashi's mouth to drop open at his casual dismissal.
Houki entered and immediately dropped her mouth open, shocked at the sight of the president in such a state of undress. "Ichika, if you made that for me, it's a waste of good food," she said, misunderstanding the situation. Her temper flared as red energy radiated from her.
"Ichika, how dare you? Not only did you sneak a girl in, but you're also doing something extremely indecent! You should be ashamed of yourself!" Houki accused, her anger palpable.
During her tirade, Ichika remained calm, handling the unfolding drama with ease. "How can I do anything indecent to her when I am sitting down while she is lying on her bed?" he reasoned, effortlessly parrying a swing from Houki's katana.
Taking her sword, he twisted it away and ushered her out, closing the door behind her. "Thanks," he said, taking the lunch box she had brought and closing the door.
Houki was left outside, dumbfounded, not accustomed to seeing Ichika handle situations quite like that. Inside, Ichika threw Tatenashi out as well, reminding her, "I told you to dress better."
Back at his computer, Ichika began to type his email. After resolving the immediate disruptions, he was finally able to focus.
Hey, Minato.
Once again, one big thank you to you and your Sekirei. This summer was great.
But once I got back to school, I had more problems than I could have imagined.
If you're wondering, how can it get worse?
How can it be worse with a violent kendo girl, an upper-class girl whose superiority complex is about as big as the continent they divorced, a Yandere childhood friend, a German super-soldier who proclaimed herself as my husband (we have not been able to hammer that out of her) and one scary angel? You would think, how can I get it worse?
Well, I have three more girls. I don't think you felt joy when you winged Uzume and Chiho. The first one was literally there the second I walked there.
Airis Twilight Ruxezemburg. Jesus Christ. It is as if Cecilia wasn't bad enough, but now I think about it: Cecilia isn't as bad as her.
This runt walked up to me and demanded that I would be her attendant.
If I have to be honest, Kusano might be younger than her, but she was way better raised than that brat.
I would ask Matsu to check her up. I have no clue how, but she found that your girls are pregnant.
She made it clear that her fight was with me, but I am not sure that she got that.
And that wasn't even the worst. I am assigned to train with Tatenashi Sarashiki. That woman, I think I know why I dreamt of cats in the last few nights.
That woman ticks off boxes, but I am not sure where it came from.
Give Musubi, Tsukiumi, and Miya one big thank you from me because I was able to fight back due to that training. I knew I trained under your girls, but this was ridiculous. I fought back hard, and I defeated her.
I also met her sister. She knew much about you.
I am just sending you this because I am fine. I just wanted to give you an update.
Ichika sighed as he leaned his head back with a smile.
I have been thinking, brother. You saved me in the last few months, and in the summer, I got stronger. Matsu is also on my thanks list, as she gave me the possibility to train on my own.
While I have yet to learn that much with an IS, I got a lot stronger.
Minato, I am fine, but that might change. For now, brother, keep an eye out for the stuff I messaged you about.
After that mail, he decided that a break was in order. One where he could unwind and relax, he opened a few videos and listened to music, recalling a line from Jin that resonated with him.
He closed his eyes, letting the exhaustion wash over him momentarily. Despite feeling drained, he knew he couldn't just turn away—not after all the support and training he'd received.
Deciding to step out for a bit, Ichika left his room, finding that Houki had finally moved away from his door. He headed to the cafeteria to grab a drink and sit back, but he soon found himself surrounded by several girls curious about the lone male pilot.
Honne and her friends joined his table. Ichika could have been more eager to make contact, but he was open to some conversation.
"Something up, Nohohon?" he asked, noticing her smile and the little necklace she wore.
"Yes, how have you been, Orimu? I saw you at that waterpark," Honne replied, her voice filled with giggles and curiosity.
"Yep. I was there with a couple of friends. I was a guest over the summer," Ichika responded, his body aching from the recent exertions. He needed rest now more than ever, feeling the physical toll of his relentless training.
"Who?" Honne probed, intrigued.
"I have an old friend. He's a nice guy. His roommates gave me some tough training," Ichika half-lied, simplifying his experiences to keep the conversation light and avoid too much scrutiny.
"Really? That must have been rough," one of the girls commented, and Ichika shrugged it off, reflecting on how the training had intensified his capabilities.
"It was okay. The landlady was a great cook, and the others welcomed me. He also helped me with my homework. Smart lad," Ichika continued, sharing bits of his time at Maison Izumo without diving into too much detail.
"I heard you defeated Ta-chan. You must have trained really hard," Honne mentioned her expression a mix of surprise and admiration.
"You know her, Nohohon?" Ichika inquired, noticing her connection to the story.
"I am close to her. She's solid. I am surprised you got her down," Honne admitted, still grappling with the fact that Ichika had bested someone she knew well.
"I got trained hard. That's all I can say," Ichika kept it simple, not wanting to boast about the extensive and grueling training he had undergone.
After some small talk with the girls, Ichika felt the weight of exhaustion pulling him toward sleep. He yawned, signaling it was time to leave.
He bid the girls goodbye but promised that he might do this more often. While they still regarded him somewhat like an exotic animal, the training with the Sekirei had prepared him for this—getting used to being around girls, engaging in small talk, and just being part of a group felt like a step towards normalcy.
As he left, Honne watched the door close behind him. She took out her phone, thinking about the long wait until she could see Jasei again. The picture on her phone showed her and Jasei in their pajamas, a simple peck captured in a moment of quiet affection. Despite guessing who Ichika had been with, she wasn't going to pursue him. She had made her choice, and that was enough for her for now.
Line break. In Shinto Teito
Minato instinctively headed towards Ichika's room, only to realize, with a slight jolt, that Ichika was no longer there.
"You're okay?" Chiho's voice broke through his momentary lapse as she noticed her lover's unusual behavior while setting the table for breakfast. They were the first ones up, as usual.
Kusano had taken the separation hard. Her tears after their return home were not just of sadness but of an unlearned skill to part with smiles. It wasn't a goodbye, but it still weighed heavily on Minato.
"I just went to Ichika's room. I forgot he wasn't here," Minato confessed with a wistful smile, trying to shake off the feeling of absence that lingered like a quiet echo in the corridors of their home.
Chiho shook her head empathetically. "I don't blame you. I still think he would train outside," she remarked, knowing well the routines and habits that had become so familiar during Ichika's stay with them.
The Sekirei, who had heard plenty of stories about Ichika's resilience and spirit, now found themselves missing his presence more acutely after having lived with him. They had grown to like him, influenced partly by the stories from school and partly by their interactions.
As Matsu walked into the room with a serene smile, it was evident that she and the others had grown accustomed to considering Ichika as their little brother. The dynamics within the house had subtly shifted during his stay, creating a fondness that lingered in his absence.
Minato knew why everyone felt this way. The stories of Ichika's progress and challenges at school were a common topic of discussion, especially between him and Miya when they dropped off their guest.
The potential clash between Miya and Chifuyu, if it ever came to that again, was a thought that troubled him. Both were strong and with Ichika growing ever closer to Chifuyu's level of prowess, the dynamics were bound to evolve.
"I think he'll write an email again soon," Matsu remarked as she leaned in to kiss Minato. Her usual radiant smile was tinged with a hint of melancholy today.
"I wouldn't mind that you know. He called you his Cyber Guardian Angel, and well, I wouldn't say that I am opposed to helping him," Minato replied, feeling a mix of pride and responsibility.
Watching Chiho and the other Sekirei settle down, he sensed their collective mood—a blend of nostalgia and anticipation for what might come next.
"We'll see. Musubi. Tsukiumi. Ichika grew stronger during the training, right?" Minato queried, looking for confirmation among his Sekirei.
Homura rolled her eyes in response. "When you train each day for thirteen hours, you will grow stronger, especially the way Ichika did."
"Plus, I found that he learned fast, and his body was how he learned. He might not be the smartest, but young Ichika might have more of a chance," Miya added, her usual smile absent, reflecting the group's mixed feelings about Ichika's absence.
"Will Big Brother Ichika come back soon?" Kusano asked, nestling herself in Minato's lap, her voice filled with longing.
"I don't know, Kusano. I don't know," Minato sighed deeply as he gently ruffled her hair, feeling the weight of her question.
"If those girls didn't change their ways," Uzume chimed in as she hugged her Ashikabi, "I think we might get our little brother back sooner than we anticipated."
Miya remained silent, considering the strained relationships between Ichika and the girls back at school. The bridge was indeed burned; the more significant concern now was his relationship with his sister, Chifuyu.
"Either way, I am afraid that discussions about Ichika have to wait," Kazehana interjected with a light chuckle, noticing the questioning looks from her sister wives and Minato. We are going to see our mother-in-law, right?" She reminded everyone, shifting the conversation to the upcoming visit.
It was only early September, and they had been pregnant for over a month. With the first trimester setting in, it was time to look at the life growing within them.
This visit was crucial as it was the first time MBI could closely monitor what a pregnancy meant for a Sekirei. Seo and his twins' situation couldn't really be counted, and he had made most of the necessary arrangements. Kusano would also be taken along for this important visit.
The weather had settled down as they left the house, the day feeling somewhat ordinary despite the significant appointment ahead.
Minato had opted against using Sekirei Airlines, so they all took public transport, blending in with everyday life. This diversion allowed Minato to focus less on Ichika and more on the present concerns.
As they arrived at the tower, Kusano nestled into Minato's neck, seeking comfort in his presence.
The receptionist merely pointed towards the elevator without a word, and they proceeded. Riding up, the anticipation and nerves were palpable among them.
When they reached the CEO's office, they were greeted not by the usual clinical reception but by Takami, who smiled broadly at them, a warm contrast to the hospital's otherwise sterile environment.
"Hello, you all."
"Hey, mom. You had an appointment with us," Minato greeted Takami as he and the Sekirei entered. Takami's gaze swept over the group, noting the subdued expressions on their faces.
Takami understood the mood without needing to ask. She hoped the upcoming news would bring some lightness back into their lives. "Yes, indeed," she responded with a nod, turning her attention specifically to her daughters-in-law.
"We are going to use the same room. I have to ask you, girls, to make these checkups once a month. You don't have to come all at once. Chiho," she addressed the Ashikabi directly.
"The Sekirei have other checkups. While your body is stabilized and you are healthier than you have ever been, I hope you keep a good eye on your health. The same goes for you. Pregnancy is heavy to carry, even for you, Sekirei. With you, Chiho, I don't think there is a risk, but I believe that your husband wants to keep you healthy." Under her breath, she added, "More than mine," before nodding encouragingly at them.
"I think you all might be happy that we can see what you will carry. Now, come along." Takami led the group to the examination room, instructing Minato and Kusano to wait outside. Minato understood the necessity of trusting his mother to handle the medical aspects. He stayed with Kusano at the door, trying to ease her nervousness with small talk.
Inside the room, Takami operated the advanced MBI machinery, which allowed for thorough scans without the need for invasive procedures. The machine hummed softly as it worked, compiling data that would be crucial for the health of the Sekirei and their unborn children.
Once the scans were complete, Takami organized the results to discuss individually with each Sekirei. The process was smooth and efficient, reflecting the high level of care MBI provided.
As they finished and stepped back into the hallway, Chiho gave Minato a quick peck, a small gesture that brought a smile to his face amidst the tension. They all waited patiently for Takami to emerge with the results.
When the door finally opened, Takami's expression was a mix of professional satisfaction and a wry grin that suggested she had exciting news to share. The anticipation in the hallway was palpable as everyone prepared to hear what the
"Well, it's a good thing that you prepared for seven children," Takami remarked with a slight grin, causing Minato to gulp nervously.
"Because, Minato, you have eight kids on the way," she announced, watching the reactions unfold.
"How is that possible?" Tsukiumi exclaimed, her hair practically standing on end as she clutched Minato's sweater.
"When did Big Brother have another girl?" Kusano, still showing signs of her old habits, began to bite Minato's leg, causing him to wince slightly.
"Oh, really, Minato? Seven women and still not enough for you?" Uzume teased, though her eyes betrayed her concern.
It was Kazehana, ever the voice of reason, who intervened before the situation escalated. "Takami, could you give a bit more information before we kill our Ashikabi?" she asked, her voice carrying a hint of frost.
"Relax all of you. Minato didn't cheat. I am just saying that one of you is packing for two," Takami clarified, watching as Musubi suddenly slapped her fist into her palm, having pieced together the puzzle.
"Oh," came the collective response, followed by a few seconds of stunned silence.
"What does that mean?" came the inevitable question.
Takami shook her head, amused by their initial reactions. "I mean, Musubi, that you're expecting fraternal twins. You'll have two kids instead of one," she explained further, bringing a wave of relief and smiles across the group.
"Two children? That means I have two in my belly?" Musubi's face lit up with a mixture of surprise and joy.
"Yes," Takami confirmed with a warm smile. "And before you ask, fraternal means that they are of different genders. You have a male and a female on the way. I would say that you start thinking about names."
No one was surprised when Musubi declared that she had already picked a name for her daughter. "I'll call the girl Yume."
"Fitting choice. You'll only have to think about the male name," Takami responded warmly as she turned to address the other girls. "Because you all are so eager to know the secret, I'll drop the ceremony. Kazehana, Uzume, Homura. You all got boys on the way."
The news prompted mixed reactions among the girls. Kazehana and Uzume shared a competitive glance while Homura sighed, perhaps finding irony in the situation.
"Matsu, Tsukiumi, Chiho. You all carry a daughter," Takami continued, prompting another series of looks among the girls as they processed this new information.
Counting on her little fingers, Kusano suddenly chimed in, "So that means that Ku will have four little brothers and four little sisters." Takami nodded at the youngest, her fondness for Kusano evident.
"Yes, indeed. I would say to start thinking about names. Now, there are a few things that I would like to say to all of you." Takami paused, briefly considering a cigarette, but then thought better of it given the company of pregnant women.
"First of all, if you are wondering if you can go back to having sex, that is possible. I suppose that is due to your guest not being on the table for the last month." The mention made the Sekirei glance at Minato with renewed interest.
Takami's comment reminded everyone that aside from the night with Musubi, Minato hadn't been sexually active.
"But all of you. This is the general rule of thumb. Do not strain yourselves. That means keeping your bedroom activities to human standards. Understood?" Takami's tone was firm, though she didn't need to glare—Minato would've enforced this rule himself.
"Okay. For you all in particular. Musubi, did you practice last month?" Takami asked, turning the conversation towards their physical activities.
"Yes, I had matches with Ichika," Musubi replied, her tone bright, not letting the name dampen the joy of their conversation.
"That explains why there is no strain on your body. You held yourself back. I don't think that exercise can hurt you, but keep it down. Human levels. Understood?" Musubi nodded in agreement.
"Tsukiumi, I assume you have the same story as Musubi. Practice but holding back."
"Indeed, dear mother," Tsukiumi confirmed with a nod, and Takami grinned, pleased with their responsible behavior.
Takami's advice was clear and succinct, tailored to each of the Sekirei's and Chiho's specific needs, ensuring the health of both the mothers and their unborn children.
"Same thing I told Musubi. Hold back. Don't go overboard if you don't have to. That goes for all of you with your powers. I only pointed them out as they had been practicing," Takami reiterated, her gaze sweeping across the group to ensure her message was understood.
"Matsu," she continued, turning to No. 02, who was always engrossed in her technological pursuits. "I would say that you need at least two hours of fresh air daily. You don't have to walk or do anything strenuous, but you need to be outside. Get your brain away from your computer."
The Cyber Maiden nodded in acknowledgment, understanding the importance of balance.
"Kazehana, I see that you don't have any alcohol in your blood," Takami noted, and the Wind Flower remained silent, her expression one of quiet acceptance.
"I take it my son stopped you. I am saying that you follow his advice. No heavy drinking. Got it?" Kazehana nodded, her commitment clear.
"Same thing at your end, Homura. No smoking. That isn't healthy for humans, and you Sekirei are not that different from us. The eighteen months were the longest of my life," Takami shared, referencing her own experience and implicitly reminding them of the sacrifices involved in carrying a child.
She had to do that twice, as the lunatic knocked her up that many times.
"Uzume, I would say that you have to practice. Chiho, one other thing is that, unlike the Sekirei, I want you to come here every two weeks. I doubt that any of you want to lose you now." Chiho nodded, her face showing her resolve to follow Takami's guidance.
"We're now in September. You'll all deliver in March. But now, that's all I have. You know what gender your child will be. Think of names for now, but I want you all to get out," Takami concluded, her tone firm yet affectionate, clearly dismissing the group.
Kusano, bubbling with excitement, marveled at the idea of so many young children to play with soon. Minato, too, began to envision the changes and expansions needed in their new house to accommodate their growing family.
"Minato," Takami called out, bringing his focus back to her. "I want you to keep a good eye on them. I'm not telling you what to do, but I am telling you to make choices." Her words were a gentle yet firm reminder of the responsibilities that lay ahead.
Minato nodded, understanding fully the weight of his responsibilities. He had eight bundles of joy to think about now—eight new lives that would soon be joining their family. He felt prepared, bolstered by his mother's advice and the support of his Sekirei.
Meanwhile, the girls, filled with a mixture of joy and anticipation, discussed potential names and what the future might hold for them.
Matsu's laughter filled the air as she imagined a miniature version of herself, a little girl playing and peeking behind computers. "I can't wait till I show my girl about computers," she said with a cackle, her excitement palpable.
"I will raise mine as a proper lady," Tsukiumi declared, envisioning her daughter receiving a refined education, a stark contrast to her upbringing. Her tone carried a mix of determination and aspiration for her future child.
Uzume exchanged a knowing look with Chiho, her thoughts drifting to Chiho's daughter. She pictured two little versions of Chiho sitting down, her heartwarming at the thought.
"It would have been a weird thing, but nothing was hurt in Uzume," she mused, reflecting on the unconventional but fulfilling path that led her here.
"I think that I am happy with a son. It might be fun to raise him like me," Kazehana chimed in with a smirk, her voice tinged with excitement and mischief. Uzume, walking closer to her, nodded in agreement. We both got boys. If you look at us, they'll be close. They'll leave a trail of broken hearts," she predicted, their laughter mingling.
"Indeed," Kagari, now Homura, added quietly, feeling a mix of anticipation and a strange sense of jealousy at the thought of raising a boy. She was determined to give him everything she never had, to play around and enjoy the new experiences that motherhood would bring.
Musubi, linking arms with Minato, pulled him from his thoughts with a simple question, "Happy?" The kiss they shared answered everything.
"Yes. I can't wait until they are here," Musubi confessed, giving Minato a tight hug. Her joy was evident in her voice and actions.
"I think we'll have to come up with names for the kids when we get home," Minato responded thoughtfully. The Flock around him nodded in agreement; even Kusano would demand to be part of that conversation.
A sense of peace settled over Minato as he contemplated the future. The direction of his life now seemed clear, and, like the girls, he couldn't wait for the arrival of his children. He knew raising eight children would be a challenge, but he felt ready. After all, winning The Sekirei Plan was no small feat—it had to count for something in preparing him for this new adventure.
This was the third chapter that I finished on the 20th of April. It's weird, though, that that day, I was not making it late because I had quite a busy day. But, well, I have been working on some other stuff.
Well, I hope that you all liked this. It's weird to reread this when you put it through.
There will be more upcoming soon enough.
Saluut.