Standard Disclaimer

Man the world went and got crazy in a fast way. Political riots/revolutions, more virus stuff, looting about two blocks from my apartment and the fact I'll be WFH for the rest of the year most likely. Well all that stuff took a bit toll on my brain and I was unable to really concentrate on writing. Sorry for the delay, hope you are safe and doing well during all this change. And between scene four and five my maternal Grandmother passed away so that took a hit. Life is strange

X-X

On Angels Wings

Chapter – 10

Looking over at Kensuke's desk, Shinji felt that small stab of abandonment sting his heart. Not gone, but…gone. Kensuke texted a few times, letting Shinji know how things were going at his grandmother, things were great, but it was different to not see him at his desk with his computer. Everything changed, everybody left, nothing was ever stable. Squelching his eyes shut, his breath coming in quick gasps, Shinji was also reminded that no matter how much his life improved a single thing could bring these panic attacks back. Mental recovery was never a quick path without hitches.

A soft ping got Shinji's attention, a message was on his system and it was from Ayanami. 'Do you require assistance?' She was watching him, already half off her chair ready to come to him in a moment's notice. Always ready to act, Ayanami just didn't care if she made a scene or not, girl ran life on her own terms now that her shackles were removed.

Shaking his head at her, Shinji smiled when Rei's head just tilted a smidge and she fell back into her seat. Responding to her comment, lest she never stop watching him, 'Just had a moment. I miss Kensuke is all. Did Akitsu and you want to do something this week?' It had been some time since the bridge and he hadn't given the pair a suitable reward for their aid.

In typical Ayanami fashion she responded with 'Yes' and no further details. Girl needed to learn how to ask for things, or at the bare minimum provide a little information without needing to pull teeth for it. He'd deal with that later.

Doing his best to keep his focus on class, no good getting Ayanami or anybody else on his case for his wandering mind. He'd have to ask Matsu for a small study session if she had time for some of the more abstract stuff, but he understood most of it. Matsu…she really opened up after that day in her loft. Most doting and open with her flirtations, but still having that coyishness about it that she only really showed to him. The fact that Musubi just rolled with it was another thing Shinji hadn't expected. And listening to the pair talking when Matsu didn't think he could here…Matsu's experiments were going to change.

Thankfully the day didn't fall into a time loop and eventually did end with Hikari letting them go. Packing up, Shinji watched his fellow classmates move about in rapid fashion. Everybody was just so eager to leave, everybody but Touji and himself. Rei, stunning Shinji, had just up and left without setting up there date. Asuka and Hikari joined up with several of the clinging girls that circled around her and left. Touji slowly joined Shinji at his desk, and they both found themselves looking at Kensuke's empty desk. Shared loss.

"How you doing, Shin-man? Got a minute to talk or your handlers in a hurry today," Touji tried joking, but the tone was off. More nervous than sad, something was bothering him today besides Kensuke's absence. Plopping down as more students left, those doing the cleaning glared a little at them, so they reluctantly both got up and headed to a corner to talk instead.

Checking his phone, no pressing matters or requests to handle, Shinji did notice Matsu's upgraded icon was waiting outside the school grounds. Guess she was his ride home today. A shudder went down his spine and left his nether's tingle a little, a ride on her bike most likely. Strange how he got a bit of a thrill in that, snuggling close to an attractive and devilishly charming woman would do that. "I've some time. W-what you want to talk about. Mari-chan alright?" he hadn't seen her since the Uzume incident.

"Hard to think of Kensuke really being gone. He's off with that…Sekirei of his with his grandmother. Think they're doing alright?" Touji said the S-word softly and nodded his head to the unasked question. He knew about Sekirei now, and that opened a whole slew of new questions. Leaning against the windowsill, watching one of the cuter girls work, "And Mari-chan did ask about you. You avoiding her for some reason? Better not be, you hurt her feelings I'll lay you out again."

Knowing Touji meant it, doing so as any brother would when their 'baby' sister was hurt, Shinji just hoped if such ever did happen again no Sekirei were present. They were increasing their protectiveness to higher and higher layers as time moved on. Fewer fights were being seen, this next phase was going to end soon, left those who didn't win scrambling for something. "You…know about that stuff now? D-do you have one? And I'm not avoiding Mari-chan, I'm avoiding…" he was avoiding Uzume. She had secrets, had all but fled the Izumo House, and that stung just like Kensuke's departure did. Hadn't they been friends? All those costumes she made for Kuu-chan and him…did it mean nothing?

Grunting out bitterly, "No, I ain't no Ashi…whatever that word is. U-Uzume-chan told me about it all. I walked in on Mari-chan and her…girl had wings glowing out of her back. Sucks to know such a hottie has aims for Mari…and Mari loves her too. But hey, now I don't have to worry about her going after you…well…guess I do cause of what happened." A flash of bitterness washed over Touji and he slugged Shinji in the arm hard. "Got a moment to talk about Uzume-chan? Girl is complicated…girls are complicated," Touji corrected.

"So Uzume-san is still meeting with Mari-chan, good," Shinji rubbed his sore arm. Upon hearing what he did, Shinji's mind filled in some gaps in the narrative. Winging happened when an Ashikabi kissed his Sekirei, so if Touji saw that…meant Mari and Uzume had a moment. The comment about still having to worry about Mari and him meant…well Uzume was jealous of Mari's hero worship of Shinji. So likely Mari missed Shinji, Uzume went to calm her Ashikabi, Touji walked in, and the cat was out of the bag. He missed Uzume and her flirty and silly nature, "H-how is Uzume-san doing? She hasn't been around the inn."

Swallowing hard, Touji's cheeks blossomed full red in a rare showing of embarrassment for the jock. "She-she is good. Her not being there is what I need talk about. C-could you…uh…get me some of her stuff? Cloths and shit?" Touji found the cleaning girls less interesting now and found the ceiling more interesting.

That was unexpected, Touji had once tried to sneak off with an article of Misato's ages ago, a sock if Shinji remembered right. But Shinji didn't want to think ill of Touji, "Y-you wanting this for y-yourself or…" Pain laced Shinji's ear as Touji's hand instinctually lashed out and popped him. Grabbing his head, and pacing around the in a small circle, Shinji heard the other students laughing at him…the two stooges were acting like fools again. Two stooges…not three…not now. Hissing angrily, "What was that for?"

Stuffing his hands up in his armpits, that shame was even higher in his short tempered cheeks, "No not for me. This ain't that stalking incident again! U-Uzume-chan is living with me right now. With dad and granddad gone so often…she's shaking up in Mari-chan's room. Needs cloths and shit, none of ma's old stuff fit her. So if you could…look I don't know what went on between you two, but she's afraid of you. Maybe not afraid…ashamed? Something, I can't figure her out. She's either teasing me or off doing things. I followed her once…don't think she knew it. She met with some old Nerv dude." Stuffing his hands into his pockets, Touji nearly vibrated out of his tracksuit.

"Somebody from Nerv? You sure of that? And y-yeah we had a bit of a trust issue come up. I don't know everything she told you about Sekirei and this whole plan thing. But she did something that left me…I want to trust her but she never spoke to me after she did what she did. So yeah I can get you some of her things," Shinji didn't want to talk bad about Uzume. He didn't know what reasons she had for attacking people, so he just left it. A chime from his phone got Shinji's attention, Matsu was starting to get worried. Pushing away from the wall, "Anything else? I need to get going home. G-girls get nervous if I'm out to long."

Following, head bobbing quickly, "Yeah, real old dude in an officer uniform. Oh yeah…them fights and all that. Makes sense. And all them girls your…you know. Even that blonde?" Touji sounded all to relieved to shift topic off of himself and onto something else. Knowing Uzume as Shinji did, it was likely Touji's mind was loaded with a bunch of embarrassing moments that living with a woman would bring. One Shinji suspected Touji used to have a crush on, until learning Uzume was bound to his sister.

"A couple, but no Tsukiumi-san is just…m-my girlfriend," Shinji nearly choked on the word. Touji nearly fell over after hearing it, made Shinji remember how very strange things were. Several women were bound to him by whatever this whole Ashikabi/Sekirei was, Misato and Miya as guardian/parent, and now a girlfriend? Yet seeing one friend flee the city and Uzume running…it still hurt. Guess the hurting never stopped, was a part of life he just had to accept. Hearing the engine of Matsu's bike revving up, "I'll tell you about it when I bring Uzume-san some of her stuff. A-ask her if she wants her sewing equipment." If Uzume took that, she wasn't coming back anytime soon, if ever. With a wave he ran off towards Matsu.

Tossing Shinji a helmet, Matsu winked at him as he caught it, "Guess we know where our wayward seamstress is. And I'm interested in what Nerv officer that was meeting with her. Might have to look into that. You ready to handle your ride?" Matsu let her hand trail down her front down to the bike in a very alluring show. Others walked by gawked at the show, a few pointed and talked behind cupped hands. With her helmet on nobody knew who it was, they DID know Shinji though. Quickly donning his own helmet he flung himself onto the bike and wrapped her arms around her…she went ridged for a moment. She could dish it out but not take it.

"S-something wrong Matsu-san?" Shinji asked knowingly. It was rare, he was not a devious person by nature, but at times he had to act. Being teased in front of students that would mock him, well he had to play back. So he squeezed his thighs against her, arms around her stomach tightly, oh and the vibrations and his own…appreciation…was wormed something of his right against a squirming part of Matsu.

Her hands slipped off of the handlebars, just hovering in the air, "S-Sh-Shin-tan is-is-is that…?" Yeah, an experiment using simulated data was not the same as feeling it actually press against the small of your back, was it Matsu-san?

It took all his willpower to keep his voice flat, he failed but at least he tried, "Yes? Are we going to get going?" Now more people were pointing at them, a few took pictures of the racing suit clade Matsu and her passenger nearly melded together. In for the penny, in for the pound as it were.

"B-bring me my supper tonight!" was all Matsu said as she reclaimed muscle control. Grabbing the handles again, she tore off after the tires squealed loudly and left heavy black stains on the ground. She knew he was a little afraid of going too fast, Misato was bad but this was worse, but she was too embarrassed to go slow. Weaving through traffic, hacking the street lights to make them all green for her, she made great time. She only slowed right before her bike's garage when she let Shinji off, "Tonight…supper…a movie…alright?"

His body still vibrating for various reasons, Shinji just nodded as he handed back the helmet. How Matsu knew about Touji and his conversation was easily answered when his phone chimed once Matsu was gone. It was a text message, more text art, from Matsu sending him a cute drawing of herself in assorted characters. His phone had been modified by her again, he had no secrets now. Walking into the house, it was oddly quiet, "Hello, anybody here?" Normally he had a group of there to greet him when he got home.

"Miya forgot something at the grocery store, Musubi took Kusano to watch over her. Katsuragi and Kazehana are out getting drinks. Just you and me right now," Kagari called out from the common room. The television prattled on about trade deficits and unrest in Europe. Before Shinji had a chance to flee to his room, "How you doing? We haven't had chance to talk much lately, everything alright?"

Joining Kagari in the commons, Shinji sat on one of the chairs close to the couch Kagari occupied. Kagari was strange to Shinji, he was such a cool guy. Shinji liked Kagari a lot, they didn't talk much, but it was always neat. Kagari was the type of person Shinji, in his more depressed moments, wished he could be more like. Calm, collected, attractive…uh…hm…yeah Shinji acknowledged that too in his deeper self that he found the host-club entertainer attractive. "No dates today, Kagari-san?" Shinji asked trying not to look at the guy.

"I do, but not for a while yet. It is a two-fer tonight, twins. They've been begging for a date. Hoping to get some good food in before it. Multiple partners can be really draining. How about you?" Kagari changed the station from the news to a game show. Just like Shinji, Kagari was doing his best not to look at his chat companion, both were not good at subtly.

Did Kagari know about the event in Matsu's loft with Musubi, Matsu, and him? Or was he referring to the whole Tsukiumi thing…or Ayanami and…yeah. Clenching his hands together, Shinji watched the show. It was a bunch of men on boxes calling out numbers that attacked said boxes, odd but funny. "N-not today, but Ayanami-san and I likely will do something this week. I owe her a favor, well not just because I owe her a favor, but…" Shinji gasped when Kagari put a hand on his shoulder. Eyes met, and Kagari laughed a little.

"I should get you a job at my club. You're a lady killer by the sounds of things. Shinji…do you…" Kagari suddenly sounded very unsure and pulled his hand away. Coughing into his fist, "So how are things going with your harem? Not trying to add Asama-san or Katsuragi-san to your little click are you?"

What was that!? Shinji felt a very powerful tug on his soul! What was Kagari doing…why was Shinji's heart was racing now! But…but Kagari was a boy and well…it was strange but Shinji felt very much like he did when he first met Musubi! Finding the show very easy to watch now, "O-of course not! Misato-san is my superior officer and Miya-san is…special to me. I couldn't see either in that way. What about YOU, you and Misato-san are awfully close right? You two even met at that club…you have eyes on my guardians?" Shift the subject off of the strange feelings he was having.

"What! I…well…you little jerk!" Kagari spat out his drink upon Shinji's comment. Then the laughed at it, both of them were just teasing one another and nothing strange was going on between them, nope…nothing at all. They chatted until Miya came back and then the insanity returned, when Misato and Kazehana returned as well that craziness ramped up into near full blown party mode! But as Shinji laid down to sleep, after a lovely movie with Matsu and Kuu, Shinji's mind went back to that moment on the couch though…what was that?

X-X

There was something both liberating and terrifying of knowing the commanders were gone, Misato rationalized. She didn't have to answer to them, could order the staff around as if she were the one truly in command. That was a power rush she had to be careful not to abuse for fun, she was mostly successful. But knowing if anything did happen, she was on the hook for anything major or minor that happened. Now that got scary when at any moment a giant eldritch being might attack, or the world's largest tech company might get uppity with its private little war and push for more power. Commanders' left only a few hours ago and the stress was growing…going to be a long two weeks.

"So you have your phone charged and at the ready? You are primary on call for just about everything until they get back. I might even cause a problem to test your availability," Ritsuko had that evil smile of hers on full display. Oh stupid woman was Misato's second, but was already playing at not doing anything to help. Jokes on her, Misato was going to let every other call go to voicemail and straight to her if such a play was made. Leaning on the balcony overlooking the command box, the commanders' typical location, the women watched the little ants work.

Wiggling into Gendo's chair, he had a very soft cushion, Misato just closed her eyes and leaned against that high grade luxury. With a very relaxed tone, "Do that and we'll see how quickly I can defund your little department. Get Ibuki moved over to R&D, they have been asking for her you know, and change janitorial times so you don't get cleaned until they come back. See if I don't." All empty threats, neither of them had any real power to do anything here, but it was fun to pretend.

Waving down at said mousy support tech, Ritsuko grunted, "They would love to have her. Hard workers are hard to find. And all you had to do to get the janitors to avoid me is flash them your tits or even hint at some sex. Those guys are…well one of them is a prick. Most are good, but Sugimoto is a pig. So what you got going on today?" Their time pretending to be the commanders' ended and the two women started down towards their real place in the world, among the masses.

"A little party at the Inn. Things are cooling down finally since the last angel and some…you know that ordeal at the south bridge few weeks ago? That was them," Misato had to turn up the heat on Shinji to learn that. Kid couldn't deny here, so she turned up the charm and felt horrid when he melted like butter. Her kid loved her, she loved him, but she had to do her job and at least try to keep him safe! Fighting MBI to let his friend leave…MBI had to much power and abused it! Pulling her jacket on tighter, it was cooler down here, "You feel up for it?"

Gliding on up to the women, Kaji bowed slightly, "Of course I'd love to! Been ages since we hung out and had a drink. I swear you spend all your free time with that Asama woman anymore. And how are you Ritsu-chan?" Kaji just had that ease of life about him, without the weight of command on his shoulders the man didn't have the stress of the world about him. Misato was envious of that lack of priorities…to just ease through life. Responsibility was a very hard thing.

Holding her hands up, Ritsuko shook her head, "Can't. I've a few project I need to make some progress on. I've gotten a few new samples that might help me make some real progress. As for the bridge incident…the Commander would be livid to know one of…was it only Ikari-kun…was attacked by MBI. Something big is brewing between Nerv and MBI. Don't like it. You two have fun now though." Winking at Misato, bitch, the good doctor fled down into her crypt to continue her vague experiments.

"Really wish I knew what she was working on, you know?" Misato would ask Kaji. Nobody else would have a clue, but Kaji had that way about him from moving from woman to woman. Misato saw it, suspected a little, but old emotions prevented her from believing anything. Going over the end-of-day ritual of inspections and paperwork, she hoped the time 'in charge' went painlessly and quickly. She had enough stupid back at home with super human girls all vying to bang her ward, most of which were succeeding if Musubi's sleep talk was to be believed. "Girl can't lie so why would I think otherwise," she muttered.

Waving at Makoto as the man struggled with something, Kaji shrugged, "Either she's making a robotic version of Ibuki, an army of those girls you live with, or anything in between. Rits is fixated on those Sekirei. And what girl can't lie, Rits?" Kaji paid Misato's work just enough attention to be watching, but was he watching-watching or just waiting to tag along to her apartment for the party he invited himself to? Suspicion sucked, Misato did not LIKE being dubious of what few friends she had.

Finishing up for the day, Misato bade her co-workers goodnight and reminded them of her status as temporary contact for any issues. "No, Musubi-chan, and are you driving your rickety bag of bolts or getting a ride with me? You have the look about you, so I know I can't tell you no. But play nice or I cannot guarantee your safety. Girls are extra protective of Shinji-kun right now," Misato got a pass being as close as they were. Other people, Misato saw even Kuu-chan scare off an older lady that had gotten too close when they went for some party supplies yesterday!

"I'll drive myself, that landlady of yours might not let me stay. Last few times I tried visiting…what is up with her?" Kaji had an uncharacteristic shudder. Yeah Miya had that effect on people. Getting to the car park he gestured down a lane where his old and nearly broken car waited.

Finding her keys in her bag, Misato pulled them out and did a cursory glance for anybody stalling in the garage. It was a tactic she learned in college, oft stalkers would wait in places like this, when it was safe. "Shinji-kun and she are…it's complicated. This whole Sekirei business complicates an already stupid complicated thing. I'll see you at my place, again, play nice or I'm not responsible," she warned with all seriousness.

She saw Kaji light of a smoke and keep walking, man she could go for one of those. But Misato only smoked after a good roll in the hay…how long had it been since then? Long time, thankfully she had more private time in her room now as Musubi followed Shinji around like a puppy. It hurt not having that closeness of sharing the room, but it was a godsend to get some personal relief in. Taking off for home, the sun already a large red orb in the sky, she took a big sigh. She wasn't lonely, she had Shinji and the people at the Izumo house…but she did wonder at times if she was missing out. Work took priority, her revenge took so much effort, but she got lonely in more personal ways.

"Not like I have time to date though. Nerv doesn't allow me much time, and my options there are…" Misato cringed. Kaji was the only option she had at work. Makoto had his own Sekirei now and Shigeru had a girlfriend, others were…she didn't know them! And Kaji was…burn me once shame on you was Misato style. It was a communal dumpster fire of a relationship, more time between the sheets than really getting to know one another. But even then, a one night stand didn't always sound bad. Gritting her teeth as Miya popped into her head, "She'd know. Have Matsu-kun spy on me and she'd use that as more proof that she alone should care for him."

The rest of the drive was Misato just wondering about Miya. A dead husband, knew Seo, all the Sekirei were afraid of her, and yet she doted on Shinji like a worried mother. Just how powerful was that woman, what secrets did she have, and what exactly did they mean to one another! Both women did claim to wish to be primary caregiver to the wayward Third Child, yet Miya did the part better. "I'm just…afraid I'll fuck it up, fuck him up…I'm not suited for this," she said bitterly. She was a soldier and a party girl, a strange hybrid, but she learned over the months of living with him that she cared. What was best for him, her, everybody? "What would be best would be if MBI fell over and the angels stopped attacking," she parked and got out.

Twin signs for a maid café were leaning against the back door to the garden, they had additional company. Punching in her security code to the door, it chimed and sure as sugar the door opened instantly and Shinji was there with his small smile. "I heard your car coming. Seo-san and his Sekirei are here…Musubi invited them to stay," Shinji bashfully pointed at the small gathering of super humans eating and drinking and the other two humans among them. Asuka was annoyed but eating and Seo was…drinking with Miya. What those two had going on…

"Sorry, long day. You said something?" Misato apologized for zoning out and not hearing Shinji's comment. She let him take her jacket and hat, kid was more her caretaker than the inverse…got Miya's attention so Misato flaunted it. Giving Shinji a one handed hug, "I didn't miss anything have I?" He said she hadn't and went to put her jacket up leaving her to scout.

Playing a game of lawn darts, no doubt compliments of Miya, Tsukiumi and Musubi were having yet another 'wifely challenge'. Kusano was scowling over a game of checkers with Asuka, Kazehana was lounging in a chair that was right next to…oh-ho she was working on Shinji by the looks of things. No sign of Matsu so who knew where she was or what she was doing. And the lady of the hour had a large group about her. Miya was hosting Seo and his twins while Kagari had a beer and was watching it all. Letting Kazehana have her moment with Shinji, Misato joined the 'adults', "Toss me one?"

"It's my brew, not your 'refined' type," Kagari tossed a can over before Seo could recognize the request. Pushing around some food on a paper plate, the host had a strange look about him, eying the party but always ending on either Misato or Shinji. Taking a small drink, "I can't stay long, got some work to do tonight. But this is…nice."

Sitting down on the side of the shoji board, Miya was destroying Seo, "I haven't seen you here in a few weeks. The side business going well?" Misato had Nerv try looking into Seo and they hit a big zero. Guy had some serious MBI protection, so it was quickly dropped less more conflict rise between them all.

"This current phase is nearly over…thinking three of four more winging's and we'll be moving on. Hope you're ready over here. Last few unwinged better be careful," Seo set a piece down and gave Miya a serious side-eye. Taking up his own can of brew, he gave Misato a toothy grin though, "But you don't have to worry about that. You're likely the most secure woman in the world." He winked at Misato and then his head bounced compliments of Hikari.

All eyes turned to the door that opened to back again, Kaji walked in with a bottle of whisky in hand. "Hey every…um…hi? I was invited?" Kaji actually paled upon the sudden influx of attention on him. Asuka instantly ran to him and dove at his side, and the others quickly lost interest as it wasn't Shinji related. Kusano took her game over to Shinji and Kazehana and forced herself upon them while Tsukiumi and Musubi were practically hurling those darts at one another. Plopping down next to Seo, "Didn't expect to see you here. Thought this was more a private party."

"The useless worm needed another handout, Shinji-kun was polite to invite him to stay. You were invited you say? Misato, next time could you let us know when you force more work on Shinji-kun, I would have assisted him in cooking had I known you were putting even more on him," Miya tittered as she hid her mouth behind her kimono sleeve.

Shinji made everything!? Misato saw a wide spread of sweet and savory all over the yard! She had been handed a small plate with her favorites on it by the man of the hour before Kazehana summoned him back to Ku-chan and their game. "It just happened at the end of my shift. Offer actually went to Ritsuko, but she had work," Misato felt as if she was a scolded daughter.

The party continued onward from there. The 'adults' chatting and talking, Asuka eventually was pulled over to Tsukiumi's side to officiate another of the endless challenges the dueling Sekirei had. Shinji played butler to the women that he put in harm's way for his friend. And Misato drank and felt smaller and smaller, yet felt Kaji and Seo's eyes on her as the night moved…that felt a little better. Still attractive, still sought after, and at one point she even thought she caught Kagari giving her an appraising eye. Booze helped, let her relax a bit more.

That Obscene Exhibitionist is to drunk for this…it will not due. Excuse me for a moment," Miya stopped her assault of Seo and Kaji's combined attempt at wining against her. Gliding across the grounds to where Kazehana was smothering Shinji and Kusano was gnawing on the woman's leg in frustration.

"That woman, can't believe she had Ikari wing her. That kid has some of the lowest numbers…and she's a real looker to boot. Good for him though, kid is alright," Seo took a shot from Kaji's whisky and offered the bottle to Kagari and Misato.

Holding the cap of the battle, a makeshift shot glass, Kaji chuckled, "I cannot fathom why all those girls flock to Ikari-kun. Nice kid, but he's so timid. You said a bit earlier that only a couple left on this phase…why doesn't…why doesn't Asama just go and do it? Get all this stupid shit over with." Kaji was weaving back and forth subtly, stage one maybe two drunk.

"I wouldn't want to see that. Landlady is scary enough as it is, imagine her exponentially higher than that. And…I'd feel bad for her husband," Misato suddenly felt chill. What IF Shinji did wing Miya, what would THAT do to change the power struggle in the home? Actually having Shinji and her bound…a way Misato could never match. She'd…she'd never compete at that rate.

Standing up, Seo nearly fell over but waved Hibiki off, "W-want to see something insane? G-going to cost each of you a case of b-beer though." Grabbing a can of beer in his fist, cocking his hand back, he eyed his target.

Before Misato could say anything, it happened almost instantly. Seo yelled out, "Hey Ikari-kun catch!" and hurled the can as hard as he could at the back of Shinji's head. Rage filled Misato at the audacity of this man to attack her ward…but a boom stunned everybody. Shinji turned around and instead of a can to the face he found Seo winking at him and pointing a finger at him. Everybody laughed…except Misato and Kaji who saw it. Miya was behind Seo with the can in hand…she moved from one side of the yard, intercepted the can, and smashed it over Seo's head in the blink of an eye.

"My-my what a dangerous thing you just did…please leave," Miya dropped the can discretely at his feet. Hikari and Hibiki apologized for his drunken acts, accepted the doggy bag of food Shinji provided, and the trio left. The party continued for another hour, Misato opted to hit the whisky and woke up snuggling a very confused Musubi.

X-X

Standing in an alley watching the city moving about, Homura felt his agitation growing in leaps and bounds. This city had two masters, and they were opposed to not only one another but the people they were supposed to serve. MBI pretended to aid the city with technology while Nerv acted like a guardian, but both had secret aims that undermined everything! Scanning the crowd, he saw a few Sekirei and their Ashikabi moving about frantically. Searching, they were searching for him and whatever few remaining un-winged remained. MBI in key locations to prevent any escape, Nerv controlling the buildings…and the citizens were stuck between.

"Nobody needs a guardian when the objective is to be winged…it won't end if I keep them from it," Homura grunted. Every instinct he had screamed to rush out and scoop up the target he saw being followed. A duo of Sekirei were forming a pincer attack for a wayward male Sekirei, he could relate, the fear was constantly growing. Knowing that you were the focus of every despite and fearful Ashikabi that want to keep their connection, it was hard. Sliding his hand across the wall, his chest started to flare up again, his body was hot all the time! Vision swimming, "I don't…need and Ashikabi…just need to make it to the last ten percent."

Closer, the noose was being drawn tighter on the target by the two garish looking Ashikabi, ones that worked for the 'Higa' he heard mentioned. In a flash the Sekirei lashed out, one with bladed disks and the other with leotard, and the ignorant crowd went up in a craze! It wouldn't last long, An unwinged against two skilled fighters…to do nothing…to do nothing would be complacent with this abuse!

Pulling up his mask, Homura charged against his better judgment, if for no reason but to keep this Higa from getting more power. "Leave this one alone! If you have to fight a Sekirei with no Ashikabi, I'll take you on!" Homura challenged. Summoning up his flame wall to keep the armed Sekirei away from the target, he lashed out at the other with his Flame Snake. Quick to guard the unknown male, "Get out of here, I'll hold them off."

"T-Thank you, I didn't know what I would do," the man said, but hesitated. Heat had that effect on people, fire hurt and was uncontrollable. In a deft move, Homura slid around the man and started backing away from the two foes, keeping the pressure up on them but leaving an escape route. All those people had phones out, cameras out, and were cheering and begging for violence. They didn't know, didn't know this was real, that got them a little pass for their lack of sympathy.

Away…away…further away…Homura could hear those two screaming in anger at being denied their prey. "Can you get away no…" Homura asked but was answered with a blow to the side of the face. Rolling to the ground, the force of the blow was akin to being kicked by a bull! Vision going grey, Homura instinctively rolled to the left just in time to avoid a downward kick that broke the sidewalk! A trap? But he was sure that this male wasn't winged yet, so why? Knowing his distraction left his offensive traps falling away, "Why? Why do this?"

Charging the still downed Homura, the male lashed out with a series of downward punches forcing Homura to continue rolling back towards the dying fire. "Higa-sama said he'd protect me if I helped bring you in. With his collection of Sekirei, he's going to win. I would rather be with the winner than go back into storage," the man said winded. Punch-punch-kick, punch-kick-punch, the cycle continued to send destruction all over. But an eruption of fire, garbage on the ground catching and empowered by the cornered predator turned prey.

"Why not just attack MBI and end all of this!" Homura asked as he rolled back to his feet. Without a good angle, he couldn't put the flame wall back up and was too far away to keep the unarmed woman at bay. Lose, if he stayed he'd lose as they were circling around him. Letting some fire grow in his hands, "If this Higa of yours cared about you, he'd rather end the whole thing than keep putting you in harms way!" Small blasts kept the trio from rushing him.

"Katsuragi, he is trying to talk down to Higa-sama, can you believe that?" the armed Sekirei tossed several gear-like metal blades that embedded in the concrete. Closing in, her clothing burnt and showing skin got a lot of the male audience's attention.

In better times Homura would have acknowledged the woman had a very nice body on her, but now wasn't really the time to appreciate the female form. That and the name Katsuragi got his attention…one of his potential Ashikabi…he hoped his Ashikabi. He was a man, not fully stable he understood, but he didn't want a male Ashikabi. But he had to admit that he responded to either Shinji or Misato, who it really was he wasn't one-hundred percent sure. Knowing the male hit hard, those gears were dangerous, so Homura took to the unknown and charged 'Katsuragi'.

A melancholic voice gasped out, "Oriha, he just doesn't recognize Higa-sama's power and plan. He will." The attack was met with high skilled counters, but Homura knew better combatants. Musubi would trounce this woman if they ever fought, and Homura watched Musubi train all the time. Bating the woman into a kick, Homura dove under the extended leg…crowd went up with that little show…and found himself no longer surrounded.

In a better position now, the fight or flight instinct was kicking in, he could possibly win here! "If he is so great, why isn't he here?" Homura challenged. Shinji would never send his Sekirei out to fight alone, he cherished and loved his Sekirei. A good kid, a really good kid, and Homura did like him a lot! But the odd memories of tending to a stressed and haggard Misato were there too. She was a fun woman that had frequented the club and got Homura to actually like her too. Was she an Ashikabi though or was it just good old fashioned attraction that brought Homura to wonder if she was his master. She was very pretty.

Before the fight could escalate further, an earthquake struck. Not the first of the week, they had been small and annoying, but this one caused the unknown male and Oriha to fall over and sent the populace running. As the ground stopped shaking, his body calming, the alarm sounded. An Angel was attacking? Why now? With everybody scrambling away, the trio got lost in the crowds manic actions leaving Homura with few options. Try and hunt them down, likely be hunt, or escape. Escape was chosen, and he fled the scene back towards the Izumo House. Miya wouldn't leave, so it was up to Homura to stay with the woman if…

"They won't fail, I have faith in both of them," Homura admitted as he closed the distance. Katsuragi was too smart to not have a plan, and the Children to stubborn to fall. Laughing a little as he landed in the backyard, "If they were about to…I wonder if she'd act then." And there she was, Miya putting up the laundry as the sirens blared. That beast would be calm in any situation, well most situations. That party a week ago…Miya made a small sonic boom when she intercepted that beer can.

Setting the metal bar into its catch, her clothing set alongside of Shinji's followed by countless other shirts and slacks, Miya acted as if nothing was wrong. But she knew she had company, "If you're wearing that, something must have happened. Or are you done with the Kagari moniker now?" The next line was set up with Kusano's and Katsuragi's things. The work of a landlady was never done.

Pulling the mask off, and finding some of his clean cloths amid the wash, Homura changed right there. If his nakedness had any impact on Miya it would have been of mild annoyance at having more cloths to tend to. Sitting down on the veranda, "I was drawn into a trap. An un-winged was being targeted by two of that Higa's Sekirei. A two on one fight wasn't fair, so I stepped in. Turns out it was a ploy to draw me out." Stupid, he felt so stupid now. They were playing him now, so now he couldn't even go out on hunts!

"So what will you do? You're little stalling tactic is gone. When you get confused or agitated you either risk losing your true Ashikabi or acknowledging them. Both of them would be hurt to see you go," Miya picked up Homura's discarded and dirty cloths. Joining Homura on the stoop, she fanned herself daintily.

Leaning over, his chest started to feel hot and his crotch tingled as images of Shinji and Misato beset him. The small fear his body might just burst into flames never left him now, not when his body felt so strange and hot. He knew what it meant, that his body was on the verge of becoming unstable, yet he maintained! "I still think we should just go in and destroy MBI. If we end Minaka's stupid plans we won't have to fight anymore, we'd be free. And if what Matsu is finding is true, Nerv is just as evil. Didn't she say she found proof that we can end these Angel attacks? When did they leave?" Homura watched as the city skyscrapers started to sink into the earth.

For the first time since Homura arrived, Miya showed sign of worry. Her hands balled just a little, and a nervous twitch crested her left eye. "A few hours ago, just after the third earthquake struck. It spoiled breakfast. And your idea is dangerous. The whole Disciplinary Squad would be against you, and this Higa is already planning around you. As for Nerv," her hands clenched tightly, "If she does find conclusive evidence I shall speak to that man."

"Just leave enough of him behind to be identified if you do," Homura winked at Miya. Yeah, Homura realized that Miya was one of the most beautiful women he'd ever seen, and he had been with many, but her mind was a mile long maze of danger. Ever since Shinji and she started bonding, Homura was growing more interested in the woman's plans and actions. Watching the woman carefully, "So…would you let him…if things go bad?"

Pulling out her phone from the many hidden pockets she had, Miya opened it and gazed at the image of Misato, Shinji, and her from a few days ago. It was a darling photo, in one light it was flirty and Homura wondered if not a bit provocative, in another light it was a damn family photo. My two moms. Miya gently touched the screen, "If it came to it, I would. I would prefer to remain myself out of respect for Takehito-san, but he would understand. We…we did want children, but that man…." Miya closed her phone and away it vanished back into the unknown.

Wow, knowing that Miya actually considered letting herself be winged was not something Homura actually expected. Woman really did think of everything, and the power of an angry mother-bear Miya that was winged…could the world support that level of power? Laughing as the image of Miya in a big fluffy bear costume popped into his mind, destroying those angel monsters with her hands while a cub version of Shinji protected her from behind. "Well if you ever think you want to join the strike at MBI or Nerv, I'll let you follow me," Homura stood up as another siren went off.

It was loud, which was telling as the Evangelions were miles away, as the trio of mighty bio-mechs were positioned across the city. High up in the sky, a shooting star was growing larger and brighter. Both Homura and Miya stood up as the operation started. The three monsters tore off in various directions, Miya was focused on Shinji while Homura split her attention over all three. That was until they saw the contact happen. It took Homura's full strength to keep the absent minded Miya from walking through the wooden fence towards her boy.

"Damn, Ikari-kun, that is going to make Kazehana just throw herself at you, any other girl that saw it too…going to have to give you pointers in fending them off," Homura joked and hoped it knocked Miya out of her worry. It was a powerful image that moved a part of Homura's heart just a little. A simple fight was one thing, but holding up a monster via force of will alone, know that if you failed not only would you die but all your loved ones as well…and to do it alone. When the others joined him, both Sekirei knew the battle was won, even when the creature exploded. Letting out a very heavy sign, "Will you let me share a beer with him when they get back? They all deserve it."

Her hands finally relaxing, Miya fluttered her sleeve as a fan, "A sip, only a sip. All four of them, if the young Ayanami joins them. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to start making supper for them. They will be famished when they return." With a small head bow, Miya left the backyard for the kitchen.

"What should I do…" Homura wondered as his work phone chimed in rapid succession. Ah, yeah, the after angel glut of work calls. He didn't give his number out to everybody, mostly those he thought might have been his Ashikabi, but he had a good number of female clientele that knew his 'personal' number. In reality it was a fake phone that he begged Matsu to set up for him. Texts asking to meet, a few saucy pictures sent to try and cut ahead of the others trying for the first post-angel fear date. "Glad he isn't like this…" using people to alleviate fear. He could, Homura bet, if Shinji wanted he could have used that piloting thing for all the tail he wanted. Not that he was lacking it with his little coven of Sekirei.

Heading to the backdoor, "On second thought Miya, I've got a few calls. I'll let you have them all today, and I'll find time in the next day or so for both of them." It was cowardice, he wasn't running, he just wasn't sure was all! Couldn't he remain un-winged and not have to succumb to this stupid system that was forced on them! Misato…Shinji…one of them HAD to be his Ashikabi, he felt himself responding to one of them, maybe even both. So maybe he had a choice, maybe it was made for him already…but for tonight he'd ignore it and make his plan to strike at MBI and Nerv…if he could get Miya to join it would be over before it started.

Finding the most worried sounding bird on his list, he texted her back and said he'd meet her. By the time he got home, the house was silent. Well…mostly silent. Shinji's guest for the evening, the ever loud Musubi was not able to keep herself to quiet as they worked out their own stress.

X-X

Sitting in his office, the monitor showing the feedback from Unit-00, Gendo felt his hand squirm upon seeing the footage. The white monstrosity that that Rei owed much of her DNA too called out to the wad of flesh attached to Gendo's hand, he hated it when the thing moved. It wasn't supposed to show signs of life, it was just the key to the gate of Yui. Yet it itched, it twitched, and it crawled in reaction to various stimuli. Was the scenario accurate, was it flawed, was MBI fucking up everything? Gendo put more money on the latter, MBI was pushing the envelope and tipping the scenario with its stupid fight.

"Alright, Ayanami-kun, you just need to inject the Lance into that body and then cut the legs off with your knife," Kozo had to lean over to hit the 'talk' button. Like a good soldier, Rei didn't respond in words but in actions. Releasing the button, Kozo groaned as he stood back up, "My back does not like these vacations. Sleeping in a helicopter didn't help it either. What about you?"

Not taking his eyes off the mission, Gendo prayed the Lance silenced the psychic link, he did lean back deeply into his plush chair. It goaded the old man just a little to be kind, take what joy in life where you could. "Mine is fine, you're just getting old. Did you read the report of the last angel, and the fact that MBI attacked two of the three Children? Something needs to be done about them," Gendo tapped his finger on the report from Katsuragi. That woman had almost the same level of distrust of MBI that Gendo had.

Gently tugging the report out from under Gendo's hand, Kozo just shook his head. With a tired raspy breathe, "I haven't read anything lately. And I am getting old. Seeing photos of the Third Child and his menagerie is threatening to give me a heart attack. Those Sekirei are quite attractive and doting. Any word from Akagi about getting some actual surveillance cameras in there?" Covering his mouth as a mighty yawn escaped his withered lips, Kozo was not responding to the late night mission well.

"No, she has shifted her focus to the DNA manipulation of the clones. Seele should be addressing MBI at the meeting. As for those abominations, I hope they have a solution to them as well, or Akagi's work bares fruit so we can counter them," Gendo hid his own yawn behind his hands. No good letting others know you were just as weak as they were. The weekly reports of the Children all showed those unnaturally superior creatures, they were attractive and did seem quite attached. Could he use that attachment against MBI if needed? Idea to explore.

With skill and silence, Rei stabbed the crucified creature and bisected the legs off. The creature appeared to fold up on itself and bulge out at the cuts. "Mission complete. Is there anything else sirs?" Rei had no indication of fatigue like her elders did.

"That will be all for tonight, Ayanami-kun, please have your report about the Third and Second Child finished by end of week. And remember, this mission is to remain a private matter between the three of us," Kozo shut off the communication after his order. What reason was there to listen to the sheep bleat? Leaning against the desk, Kozo's shoulders sunk just a little more, "What are we going to do about that one, Gendo. Akagi-kun claims that her little roommate is a Sekirei, but they aren't joined like the other Children and their bodyguards."

Taking his glasses off, Gendo rubbed his eyes as disappointment washed over him. The stupid thing was moving even more right now! Maybe it was just a reaction to Lilith being hurt. Wanting a drink very badly, he swallowed down that desire. Drunk meeting with Seele would be a nightmare. "Same as we'd kept telling her. If she shows signs of waning allegiance we will replace her. I won't let MBI and it freaks dictate our scenario. Oh, and we might have to find a replacement for Akagi…" Gendo felt another small mental stab. She betrayed him…she said she loved him…and she betrayed him.

Reading the papers finally, Kozo hummed and hahhed as he nodded at the account. It was of the bridge event and various other MBI events that prevented Nerv operations. "MBI is powerful, we cannot just drop Unit-02 on them without consequences. And what happened with Akagi? She seems more vested in her work than ever," Fuyutski slipped the report back down on the desk with practiced ease.

What the woman had done was go to MBI and fuck that bastard! Gendo tried to lie to himself and say he had no genuine feelings for the younger Akagi woman. But seeing the footage his man recovered of Ritsuko going to Minaka's home…it hurt. Everything he did was for Yui, but he wasn't a monster and did have feelings. Part of him really did care for Ritsuko, and knowing she was going after Minaka while she claimed she was busy. It hurt. "I have evidence that she is actively working with MBI in ways that do not appear in her reports. Increase the Section-8 surveillance of her to verify. But we may have a leak with her," why did everybody betray him in the end.

"Could be, or maybe she's just trying to seduce a few secrets out of them. You know her, she likes to surprise you with revelations. But I will increase the reports on her. We don't have a replacement for her. She knows far too much," Kozo pulled his phone out and started typing. Pacing the room a little, a pensive look came over him, "Now this is vexing. A mission I set out for some of our little pawns failed to capture the knight. Oh, did you ever get through to Katsuragi about her promotion?"

Gazing at his hand as it finally started to fall back into its slumber and the mental cry going silent, Gendo smiled just a little. Looking at his own phone, an image of Yui holding a swaddled bundle, Gendo didn't bother checking for calls. "No, whatever electromagnetic shielding that building has, it has preventing my call from going through. I'll let her know when she returns," he had actually wanted to congratulate the Third for single handedly holding off the destruction of the city, get him back in hand a little, but was unable. Maybe he'd have to visit that place, he wasn't enjoying the reports from Katsuragi about the boy's affection for this Miya Asama. Might have to get her to leave.

"Do you want me here for the meeting with Seele, or can I go and hopefully get some sleep?" Kozo stretched his hands above his head. The motion caused the old man's shirt to untuck and slacks to fall just a little. Kozo had lost weight again, Gendo wondered if he was healthy enough to survive to the end.

Waving off his old teacher, Gendo put his glasses back on, "Go. You wouldn't be able to add much anyway as you are. I'll send you a write up after it's done if I think you need to know any of it." Pulling his gloves on tighter, the wad was a deadcell of sensation which always caused a mental shiver. As the older man headed for the door, "And eat a sandwich old man. You get any skinnier and I'll have to get a new Vice Commander." A little brevity in secret, nobody would ever suspect him capable of it, he hardly was.

"I'll do that if you eat a salad. You have a heart attack and what will happen to everything. I'll read your report from the old men in the morning. And I'll see if Ayanami-kun is still on base, get a first-hand report about the other Children. She was at their victory gathering," Kozo stuffed his hands into his pockets after opening the door and vanished.

His co-conspirator, that old teacher that Yui got enthralled with her genius and personality, Gendo did hope the old bastard lived to see the culmination of their work. He had sacrificed so much for this grand design, the scenario, and it was going to get worse before the end. The Dead Sea Scrolls spoke of trials and tribulations much worse than what they had suffered already. "But they never mentioned an alien ship. Didn't have a massive battle among those things…didn't have a lot of things," but Gendo had to maintain hope. Everything he did was for Yui. Riding the tiger that was Seele was dangerous enough, but add Hiroto to the mix and it was hard to keep focus.

"If we had a solution to him and his fucking stranglehold on technology and public opinion!" Gendo spun around in his chair and gazed up at the Sephiroth. Where did those things fit into the tree of life? Did they fit into it? If only he was a smarter man, but he wasn't. He was a driven man, one with determination, but he was no philosopher or scholar. Just sitting there, he replayed all those sweet memories he kept that got him up in the morning to continue. As time moved, more of those reasons fled him or betrayed him. Grinding his teeth as he heard the incoming call, "But I will not fail. I will be the one to see his wants fulfilled."

Getting into the necessary position in his office, Gendo hit the accept button and the room changed around him. The lights dimmed, the window covered, and holographic images surrounded him. Only there were fewer than normal. With Kehl as the exception, they maintained their anonymity in their stupid number form. Even with the voice modification, Gendo recognized a few of them from being on the UN Security Council. Just instead of twelve members, today was only seven.

"Ikari, were you successful," Kehl didn't both with platitudes or even greetings. The man who felt he ruled the world just jumped right into the meat of things.

If only Kehl knew all of the things Gendo had done, well if Kehl knew Gendo suspected he'd not wake up one morning. Fixing his glasses, stupid things just kept slipping, "I have and we have done as requested. Lilith is further detained. Everything is moving according to plan." An exaggeration as much of the scenario was being done on the fly now, but the show of strength was necessary.

A very Russian sounding voice, male by the gruffness, "Excellent. One less worry. Now we must address our lesser numbers. Seele-08 and Seele-11 have gone silent, others have hinted of financial issues. We are besieged from outside. Magi needed to do deep dive, find our leak and plug!" The broken Japanese wasn't too hard to interpret thankfully.

Gendo loved it when Kehl lost control of these meetings, they were never supposed to be anything other than pure Nerv business. Now something was happening to these fools and they wanted a favor. Somehow they had been found out and somebody was exploiting them, oh no how sad for them!

Now a Chinese woman with very cultured form added, "From what little we have gleamed. The system was MBI made that hacked us. Had to unplug server to prevent full intrusion. Get Akagi and the Magi on this or we will be unable to continue with our goals. We are unlimited in resources, losing what we are is a big hindrance. What is she doing anyway, your last reports on her dealt with the clone?"

A chance! If Gendo could get Seele to take MBI as a threat, a serious threat, they would act. Having the UN rear its fangs on them might show some positive changes for Nerv! "She has been trying to crack the Sekirei genome, and has made progress with gene modifications with some of our clone bodies," they knew of them so why hide it. Clenching his fist tightly, squeezing Adam tightly, "MBI has also put us in a tight spot, their little fight nearly hurt two of the three Children. Couldn't the consul do something about them?"

"We do not have time to deal with a sibling rivalry, Ikari!" Kehl tried to regain control, but it was tenuous at best. Nobody dared stand up to the old bastard, he had been around for longer than anybody, and nobody knew much about him other than he had power. Once the chatter did lull he pound his fist on the counter nobody could see, "MBI is over stepping its bounds, if these hacks are true. And it is good that Akagi is working on those things genetics. One of our own researchers thinks they found a weakness in there DNA that could be exploited. I'll have the details forwarded to Akagi after she deals with the issue the other members requested. But, if what they say is true, it might give us the leverage to steal the whole thing from MBI. We'd have their tech, their aliens, and them at our mercy."

Letting the bickering continue, Gendo did what he always did, play on people's belief he wasn't smart enough to understand. Yes, he wasn't a professor grade genius, but he had different types of intelligence. So he stood there as they whined and complained, said things they didn't think he'd understand while Kehl tried to shut them up. Kehl knew, Kehl understood that if you gave Gendo an inch he took a foot. Seele had an issue, somehow they were being exposed and it looked like MBI or at least MBI tech was involved. And some of the older members were really excited to learn more about Akagi's genetic tampering. Old people liked not feeling old, wonder if Kozo would take that option.

"Enough! This is for us alone. Ikari, I have sent you the details we have about this genetic weakness. Have Akagi or somebody else she trusts work on that as she deals with this intrusion situation. We have to prevent MBI from getting any more power over us, and this…even the hint of it…could get them to back down and let us do what we need. Time is nearly upon us, we are so close…we cannot let them prevent that," Kehl finally dictated and shut off all the feed. The MBI logo proudly standing clear for a few moments as the call ended.

Let the idiots get caught, they only cared about money, power, and themselves. Gendo had greater aspirations, and would let those take the forefront of time. Perusing the file that Kehl had provided, he understood little of it. He wasn't a geneticist by trade, but he understood enough from the written words. If Akagi wanted to play with MBI's little monsters, he'd give her the keys and let her dig her own grave with it! Altering the details just enough to give a different impression, one of control rather destruction, he forwarded it on. "Let's see how that changes things for you and your little toys," Gendo felt a bitter joy in his little plan. She hurt him…maybe he hurt her back. Tit-for-tat.

X-X

Running the brush through her hair again, making it as perfect as possible, Tsukiumi was confident in her current state of hair. While she did have some nicer clothing, she was going to go in her traditional garb. This was going to be a 'spontaneous' thing, it wouldn't do good to stand out to much and give the wrong impression. Just a wife suddenly wanting to go shopping with her husband, not a woman feeling left out as the man of her affection was doling out time to everybody BUT her. SHE was the girlfriend/wife and they were just…servants.

"Are you done yet? You've been dolling yourself up for over an hour now, and I do want to use the mirror," Asuka gave Tsukiumi a shove. Her own toiletries in hand, Asuka started her own little primp session. The shared room was a little dirtier than normal, neither where good at cleaning and Asuka was I a mood after the last angel. Whole Izumo House was different after that one. Tsukiumi was still a little overwhelmed by just how that played out. Guess Asuka felt overshadowed as just being backup and not the star. Growling at her hair that was frumpy and resisted her actions, "So you going to finally just throw yourself at him?"

Having come to know and appreciate her Ashikabi a bit more over the months, Tsukiumi didn't take the bait. Asuka was dealing with her depression in her typical way, trying to mask it with over confidence and knocking others back. They were more common than different, defeat did not taste well for either woman. Putting a few things into her multitude of pockets, just in case, she watched Asuka struggle. Summoning just a smidge of water she ran it over Asuka's trouble spot, "A little water doth take away the challenge ones hair may throw upon ye. A bottle of it at your side may aid more than raw force. And I doth not throw myself, it be a simple and standard walk for the weeks provisions."

Rolling her eyes, but with that smile she tried to hide, Asuka continued to work with improved results. "Why would I need a bottle while I have you here, you're a walking water bottle. And do you typically bring lipstick out on grocery trips? Does he even know you're going with him? Thought he was taking Kusano with him," Asuka nodded at her improved image. Checking her phone, several unread messages from the girls she hung out with were waiting for her, "Idiot should spend time with…"

"So you plan for the Hokari and her friends to be thy companions? Plans for the day?" Tsukiumi did pay her Ashikabi attention. Asuka wasn't the one she wanted to be bound to, but she could have had worse. Pulling the tube of makeup out of her pocket, she set it back down. She wouldn't need it, her lips were colorful enough already. Waiting for Asuka to be done, "As for my husband, he is ignorant to mine plans as he is to many of his servants. Kusano be a sneaky wheel that steals into his room if empty against the wishes of many. As for today, if ye would be to be lonely and want…"

Snapping her phone shut, eyes dancing wildly, Asuka shook her head. A slight agitation undercut the false positivity, "I do not want to hang out with that m-manwhore. Every damn woman in this place is after him lately. I am NOT like that. Guys come to me, not the other way around. He isn't Kaji-san anyway! And…yeah Hikari, her older sister, and Mikawa from class. Going to try and get Kaji-san to join us today. So go and have fun with that geek. He's been strange since you helped that pevert leave town." Shouldering a smart looking purse, which held very-very little, she hip checked Tsukiumi and flashed her the thumbs up, "Just if you HAVE to fuck him…use his room and now ours. I don't want to see this place flooded out as he breaks the waterspout."

About to yell out at her, Tsukiumi held her tongue as the door opened and Kazehana was standing there with a pensive expression. Shinji's Sekirei did not trust her, well Musubi did but that girl was strange. Asuka kept Kazehana at a safe distance as she fled down the corridor and into the wild unknown. Crossing her arms, Tsukiumi expected something like this, "So, the spy makes herself open to the spied. Have your words, but know it shant stop a husband and wife from a simple trip."

"It is a simple deal really. I won't stop you…but you watch over him like he's that princess of yours and I'll do the same for her. Things are getting…strange out there and I will not let my darling be hurt before our honeymoon. He has chosen two days from now to take me out on the town. He will be safe in your hands?" Kazehana went from a doe-eyed lover to a fierce and intimidating warrior in the span of a few seconds. Stepping right up to Tsukiumi, her skimpy clothing pressed against Tsukiumi's finery, eye to eye, this was not a woman to be taken lightly.

With a shake of her head, "Never do I not watch over and protect him. While he be not my bound one, we are tied in a far greater way. So I shall take you up on your oh so gallant request and leave MY bound one in your care. But if you be playing some game…consequences will be dire." Doing her best to keep composed, she fled to the kitchen and the waiting man of the hour. Kazehana couldn't hurt Asuka or Nerv would step in, and it would be devastating to everybody if a Child fell. All three were needed.

"Are you ready to go out on our little adventure Ku-chan?" Shinji asked as he folded a slip of paper into his pocket. Likely the list of what was needed and for who. Pushing the tiny girl's nose, they shared a giggle and Shinji extended his hand down to her, no good walking with an easily lost girl without holding her hand. Tricky little flower girl.

Moving with the grace of a twisting stream, Tsukiumi grasped that hand before Kusano could. "You spoil this one to much as she vexes the others with her nightly intrusions and morning trainings. You shall be taking ME in her stead as she thinks of her selfishness," Tsukiumi towered over Kusano. She had to be bold, had to be controlling, or this would be a trio and not a date!

"T-Tsukiumi-san! I…well…I guess I do spoil Ku-chan a bit, but I've been trying to spend time equally with everybody. I guess…Ku-chan would you be upset if I take Tsukiumi-c-chan to-today and we watch a movie or play a game when I get back?" Shinji knelt down as he asked. He was clearly upset with the change, Kusano had near tears in her eyes…girl was a master manipulator for being one so young.

Rushing to her plant, Kusano had vines out and rushing Tsukiumi in a show of petulance. But said plant tendrils were intercepted by a very speedy entrance of the landlady with her broom. "Now none of that, you have had more time than others, Little One. And you have been violating my rules on sleeping arrangements. Now, let these two be for now. Shinji, be safe, Faucet…do take care," Miya scooped up Kusano and gave the girls bum a quick smack and the plant reverted to normal.

Not wanting to risk more intruders, Tsukiumi linked her elbow with Shinji's and started walking. "Cruel only to be kind be the what keeps spoiled children from rotting as plants left in muddy water," she tried to ease his troubled mind. Leading Shinji out into the street and down towards the shopping district, "And as your wife, I shouldn't have had wait so long in queue for your attention. Or am I so low on your duties list?" She suddenly felt like asking that was a horrid thing, as if he said she was…

"J-just been really busy! I've been wanting to…not take out for groceries, you deserve better than that. I just…I don't know what I could do that is fitting of…a woman such as yourself," Shinji slowed his walk but jerked back to moving as Tsukiumi kept the pace. He wasn't looking forward, so he missed the blush that hit Tsukiumi so suddenly. Clearing his throat just a little, "And I really haven't been setting the events since the last angel, people have been doing that for me."

It wasn't an excuse, it was the truth, and Tsukiumi knew it. A good watcher, one might even say she was spying on him. But his free time was under assault from all his Sekirei and the others at the house. Miya and Misato were constantly on the fringe of his free time. Musubi just scooped him up and off then went on what Tsukiumi bet were dates. The closet pervert would rope him into her attic room. That strange Ayanami and her broken Sekirei were moving in and they stole him for a whole day! It was that dispassionate blue haired oddity that got Tsukiumi to strike. If this new girl…girls took a whole day, she could do this! If she didn't do something herself, it would be watching from the sidelines forever!

"Finery and elegance be not necessary," Tsukiumi said with utter conviction. If her foolish husband thought she required the best and finest, he was wrong. All she wanted was his time, to be with him, and enjoy his company. Tugging his arm closer to herself, he nearly tripped as their legs crisscrossed, "Foolish husband. If I wont for nothing but excess, would I be so enamored with you…being as plain as you are? Regardless of my outward visage, all I desire is to be counted in your company." Spinning in front of him, bending at the knee a little to look him in the eye, she just watched him.

The lines about his eye and brow lessened and vanished as best they could, and Shinji's eyes got just a little wetter. "I guess…I just feel you deserve more. B-but how about we just…enjoy our time for now then?" he rubbed at his eyes and his hidden grin was back.

Motion, sudden and controlled got Tsukiumi's attention. Down the road she saw Musubi! The lummox was looking about, trying to find them? Well not today! Stupid punch-machine got the lion's share of Shinji's time and Tsukiumi was not going to let the servant steal any time today! "Agreed, let us continue to enjoy the day as the sun shines upon us! Now…a side visit?" Tsukiumi had to move quickly! Hearing no argument from Shinji, she didn't know where she was going, but she had to get off the main street. Almost carrying Shinji as they weaved about, she finally stopped once she was sure she escaped, "Ah this shop is what…my mind…sought." Keep it together…run with it!

"A-are you sure you want me to go in there with you? I don't think…well Kazehana-chan had a b-bag from this place," Shinji couldn't even look at the shop. A fancy langerie shop! Mannequins showcasing lacy and frilly things best seen only in private stood in the mirror.

About to change her mind, play it off as a joke, Tsukiumi saw Musubi again! They WERE being followed! Well Tsukiumi wasn't going to fall for it! "Yes, a wife need know what her husband fancies if she is to entice him properly on their first night!" she boldly declared as her mind seized up! THAT WAS NOT THE PLAN! She just wanted…well a little physical affection for sure but she wasn't wanting to go…THAT far so soon! But what other option did she have! If she fled into Musubi's trap the date would be ruined! Dragging Shinji into the shop, the bell announcing their arrival, a woman heard and started her approach. Oh heavens it was even more lewd inside the place!

"Welcome to our shop…oh you have…welcome both of you. How may I be of assistance today?" the woman stifled a laugh. A little on the older side, a smooth face from a happy life and good food, the clerk gestured to the sheer options around her.

Keeping her air of superiority and pride, Tsukiumi did not show any of the mind breaking embarrassment. Forcing a small cough, and gripping Shinji in front of her as a shield against the lewdness, "Yes, for my husband and my upcoming mingling of…souls. I require something fitting of my s-stature. I have brought him with as a valuation of its effect." Even as she spoke she realized what she was saying made no sense and she was literally saying she was planning to make love to the man she held.

"I-uh-well…do you have s-some place I could sit? M-maybe I should wait outside? K-keep it a secret?" oh Shinji wanted out. But if he went outside, he'd be found, and that wasn't allowed!

Squeezing him closer to her, his head now sandwiched between her ample support, Tsukiumi was aghast with her stupid actions! Digging her hole deeper, "Neigh, this be for both of us. Or would you rather I get something that hurts to ware that both us find galling? Now…what would you think would be fitting for this shell?" Tsukiumi freed one hand to gesture towards herself.

Covering her mouth again as she stole Shinji out of Tsukiumi's grasp, she actually did gasp just a little. "I need to SEE you to offer my opinion, dear. And you are quite…well you have a very lovely frame. Would you be…well…could I pay you to model a few of these? Not today of course, but if you'd be willing. Some of these were made to be worn by you. Your…husband…could be here for the photo shoot to keep it acceptable," the woman was not crass or rude, just earnest with her approval of Tsukiumi's rather beautiful design.

"O-only if he be treated well and it not be some woman of the night's dressing. And today is…our date…so another time of course," Tsukiumi was not prepared for such brutal honesty. For the next twenty minutes the matron of the shop teased both of her customers with various articles of clothing, the verity great and Shinji had to pinch his nose a few times as Tsukiumi held it to her body and posed. The fun ended when another set of customers entered, and they did appear to be quite wealthy.

With a small grunt, nostrils flaring, the matron handed Tsukiumi a bag, "Well the fun had to end eventually. Work calls, and these three will take all my time. You two enjoy that free of charge, and I hope you take me up on my offer. Just…when you take that off young man, don't tear it, and don't get her pregnant until I get some photos." And like that she went to the other people and started talking to them.

"D-did you want…get something to eat?" Shinji tried not to show interest in the bag Tsukiumi held. They didn't see the woman bag anything up, but they were in a world of their own once the little play started. Hard not to be, Shinji was clearly enamored with her, he was her husband, and she had images playing in her mind of them alone in his room…and the lights went out and…

Was she wrapped in vines again? When…how? The moment they were outside she found herself off the ground and Shinji once again pressed tightly against her, only it was his front this time and…ok he was very appreciative of the show judging by the heat and firmness of something pressing against her thigh. "H-husband…is that a problem I need teeaaaaaaand!" the moment of intimacy ended as a very angry Kusano swung them about.

"THERE you are! You're supposed to be doing your studies and…Shinji-sama and Tsukiumi? What are you two doing here? Where IS here?" Musubi rushed over to Kusano and tugged on the angry child. Kusano was glaring jealously at Tsukiumi and knew exactly what was going on. How Kusano was more mature than Musubi, who knew, but that was the case. Well…the date was spoiled, but with their minds overwhelmed already…they just went with it. They all ate a small snack at a street vendors stall, Shinji holding her had under the table. Then it was groceries, Kusano got a small treat in the form of a pencil case with her name on it…and when they got home…Shinji made sure nobody was looking and k-k-kissed her on the lips! OH she had the vapors that whole night after that. It almost felt like her wings were going to come out! B-but how?

X-X

Notes

Making that time happen and progressing through the 2nd phase of the whole Grand Battle. Starting to set up the inevitable conclusion but that is still a number of chapters away.

You know how I have come to dislike super-long running stories as it gets very samy and I'd rather write/read things that are at least changing

Later

Mercaba