Standard Disclaimer

Opted to go with a more funny light hearted story than the more depressing one of Freezing. Life has been a bit of a jerk again. People moving again, work is having multiple big projects hit with only me do to them, and pool is on last legs...sadness. So lets write a silly light hearted story about beautiful women fighting...wait haven't I done this before?

X-X

On Angels' Wings

Chapter – 1

Making his way back home from the grocery store, Shinji stopped to watch the deconstruction for a few moments. Not a week ago he was nearly killed by that thing, stupid giant flying box. What were they using the parts of that thing for, was it a living thing, or more robotic? Hard to tell with how it was being taken apart panel by panel, yet it reacted to him. No answer was in his mind, it was beyond him. Just glad it was gone and the fight over, he was reminded of that beautiful smile Ayanami had bestowed upon him.

"Take the good with the bad I guess," Shinji muttered a little weakly. Not good if people heard him talking to himself, they'd joke or mock him. Checking his watch, train was due soon, he stopped his city gazing. City life was odd, but good he supposed. Far different than the rural home he lived in with his teacher. So much more technologically advanced, Tokyo-3 was truly a marvel. Getting shoulder checked by a business man and then a gyaru as he recovered, Shinji put his arms before him and double fisted the bag. Grumbling at the physical offenses, "It's ruder too…"

But it was what it was, and he was going to have to make due. It was to late to back out now, his teacher had shipped his cello and what few things he had left behind already, message received. 'You are not welcome back' With no place else to go, and having started to enjoy living with the slob…Misato, he was trapped here. Hurrying his pace to get to the train, he saw it coming into the station, he tried not to let that depression hit. It would, always did, but at times he could fight it off with remembering the few good things.

Misato was good. She was funny and chipper, energetic and forced him to do things he normally wouldn't but found fun. Board and old video games, stupid movies, her teasing, and feeling like she actually cared. Yeah she was at times way to hard with her teasing, some drunken rambling might boarder on abuse with her promises to 'make good on it' one day.

He had friends now, well two of them and a few random people he felt he was tolerated by. Touji was a dufus that would talk himself into a corner and make himself look like a brash fool. But guy was loyal, trustworthy, and fun to be around. While Kensuke was more like Shinji in personality, just he wished the kid wouldn't ask so much about the largest source of pain and misery in Shinji's life. Nerv was pain, hurt, life scaring horror, and…well…he hated it but it was his link to everything. Without Nerv and Eva, those things he liked would be gone. Trapped…trapped…

"LOOK OUT!" a voice called out loudly knocking Shinji from his internal fall of mentality. Literally knocking Shinji out of his growing brooding session and off his feet, the owner of the powerful voice slammed into him from above as he had come to a standstill.

Slammed to the ground, head rocked with the impact, Shinji didn't immediately notice the body that hit him lay atop him still. Shaking his head, he found the back hurt a little, but he could hardly move it, his nose was lodged between to warm and firm spheres. Reaching up to try and free himself from the confines…he found it was a rather shapely and firm rear end that spread upward and forward to what he could only assume was a human. More sensation started to was over him, heat for one, person was very warm, then he felt two more orbs brushing against him in a more delicate place. Oh…so it was a woman.

Hm…what was he forgetting to do? BREATHE! Yes, woman was laying atop his face and was quite effectively blocking his ability to draw in breath. Unsure what to do, he did only thing he could think of and gently slapped at the offending derriere. Hearing a quite yelp, and then sweet smelling air returning to his lungs, he gulped at it, looked away from the cloth clad undercarriage, he watched the train leave the station. Muttering, "Going to have to walk." Thankfully it wasn't THAT far, train was more a convenience.

"I knew it, that was to far to jump down from. Thanks for helping!" the unknown woman said again taking Shinji away from his attempt to displace himself. Rolling off his body, doing him a small thrill of unknown exposure, she stood up and offered her hand. Leaning over to fill his world with her face, "Not hurt are you?"

Ok, there was cute and there was Cute, this was definitely in the later column. Shinji just blinked a few times before taking the woman's hand. It was soft yet he felt a fierce strength in it as she yanked him up. "I…uh…head hurts just a little, but not bad, hardly the worst pain I've had," that would have been the boiling LCL treatment. Taking in the woman's attire, first thing that came to mind was that she was a shrine maiden cosplayer. White thigh high leggings, an outfit that looked a combination of martial artist gi and shrine miko outfit, he noticed she was filling it out…VERY…nicely.

"Alright Useless, just stop right there and get ready for a beat down. No more running for you unclaimed," a less lyrical voice called out. Slamming into the ground about twenty feet away from them, two more women joined the fray. Unlike the first girl that crashed into Shinji and forced his first taste of adulthood, these two did not appear friendly, seriously the girl that still held his hand was just pouring out positivity. Now he had seen outfits like these two new spikey black haired women before in some of Kensuke's videos. 'Leather Straps of Love' was the video Shinji through…city was a scary place.

Pushing Shinji behind her, the woman became his protector, "I won't be stopped here! I'm not wanting to fight either of you right now!" When the first of the two new women punched out, Shinji's eyes nearly popped out of his sockets as what looked like electricity left her hand and would have smashed into both his protector and himself had she not leapt away…taking him with her. Dangling Shinji behind her, the woman sped off quickly and Shinji noticed a forth figure landing in the destroyed space they had just been.

"M-m-miss c-c-can you stop?" Shinji finally got out after a few blocks of rapid escape. Holding her hand was nice, but being bounced around as if he were a trailing balloon was not. As his feet finally reconnected with the ground for more than a few moments, Shinji took stock that he was actually closer to home! Maybe this nightmare was over. "Are you alright miss? What was that back there, those scary ladies?" he had to ask. Misato would want to hear about this, his Section-2 guards likely already reported some of it.

Letting go of Shinji's hand, the woman turned with a befuddled expression. "Ooops, I shouldn't have brought you along and drug you into this! I'm Musubi by the way. And those two were trying to stop me. Who are you by the way?" Musubi bowed energetically.

Such childlike energy and activeness, Shinji just blushed as he tried to absorb all he could of this woman. Likely only time he'd ever see her, and he wanted to remember her. Brown hair not much longer than his, dangerously looking red gloves on her hands, and a body that look close to seventeen or eighteen, the obi keeping her top sealed was doing double duty keeping a bust larger than Misato's confined. "I-I'm Ikari Shinji. Can I help you? G-get you a taxi or would you like to use my phone and call somebody?" he reached into his pocket for the fancy cellphone Misato provided him. Top of the line MBI device that was well beyond Shinji's tech level.

"Such a cute name…" Musubi said with a smile before falling backwards to the ground. Eyes closed, hands over her stomach, Musubi was motionless.

D-did she just…rushing to her side, kneeling down over her, Shinji was beside himself. What did he do? Did he call the hospital or something? This woman was being hunted by two others, one that fired off electricity or something at him! Part of him was screaming to just run, avoid this whole mess, don't get involved. Nothing good could come from this, take the memory of that hand, cute face, and flee! "M-miss? Are you alright?" he dumbly asked.

A stomach rumbled loudly, Musubi kept her eyes closed as she immaturely asked, "I'm hungry."

That was it? She was hungry so she…

Well she did save him from those scary older ladies, he owed her right? Hoisting Musubi up on his back, arms dangling around his neck, legs hooked with his arms, and his interlocked hands hoisted that pert behind his face had interacted with. Ok, she was a heavy body, legs strained, but that feeling against his back kept Shinji from even thinking about it. Girls were dangerous creatures, made him do stupid things. Ayanami a few times, then Misato, and now this woman.

"I'll get you to my apartment, get you some food," Shinji hoped his strength held out. Rushing as best he could, her bouncing and jumbling against him left the lad frazzled and moving. Misato teased him with such ideas in the past, but to actually feel it? Guess that miko-top didn't contain any undergarments by the feel. Ignoring the odd stares he was getting, the few random comments yelled at him, Shinji kept moving as best he could. Slumping against the side of the elevator and then the wall of the apartment complex, he barely got into the apartment before his strength gave out.

Rolling Musubi onto the couch, "Misato-san? Are you home?" His call was greeted with a wark from Pen-Pen and nothing else. Guess she was either at work or out doing…whatever Misato did when she left the apartment. More often than not it was a restaurant or bar, but Misato did occasionally head out to unknown venues that she would refrain from comment on. Not going to push the woman, less she get upset with him, Shinji just let it go. Rushing to the kitchen, grabbing some of Misato's snack food, he brought it back, opened the package and nearly lost a finger as Musubi assaulted it.

"Thank you so much! You saved me again!" Musubi spat out between bites of food. Meat buns and snack cakes were inhaled in rapid order, leaving her face covered in a glaze of meat juice and sugar. Licking her finger tips, exposed to the air as her gloves only went so far, she patted her belly. "Two times, three actually. You saved me three times already! I really wish you were my Ashikabi-sama," Musubi said with a faint reddening of her cheeks.

Gathering up Musubi's garbage, Shinji balled it up and turned back only to find Musubi slowly progressing on him. Stumbling over the table, "Ashikabi? W-what is that?" And why was she getting closer and closer. Was, was this all just a ploy and she was going to do something to him? City living was strange for sure, but he never read about women staging a fight to rob somebody.

"The one I'm searching for, the one to wing me and ascend with me, if it were you…" Musubi's eyes glazed over as she crawled. As Shinji scooted backwards until he hit the entertainment center, Musubi followed. Her cheeks rosy and flush, filling her with vitality and transcending cute into beautiful, "I feel so warm, I don't know what…why…"

It was soft and moist, her lips on his, Shinji's heart nearly burst at the simple action. Never, he never felt something so…pure? He would have closed his eyes and just enjoy it, but a blinding light erupted from Musubi's body and ending with a pair of glorious wings. An angel? Was she…if she was…well this was the end and Shinji didn't know if he minded. As the light faded, Shinji found he could barely speak, "W-what was that, a-are you an angel?"

"You…you winged me? You ARE my Ashikabi-sama!" Musubi pulled back with that glamorous smile on her face lifting Shinji's confusion and replacing it with a bud of emotion. Shinji was vaguely aware he phone started to ring as Musubi continued to hug and grind against him giggling. After she calmed down a little, "And I'm a Sekirei, one of 108 released into the city to find my Ashikabi, and I did!"

Pulling his phone out of his pocket, Shinji did not know anything or how Musubi's comment meant anything. Flipping open his phone, the video connected immediately and he saw a man with glasses and a mask on, "Uh…wrong number?" He hoped at least, or was this the next stage in the con he was unwillingly pulled into?

"Ikari Shinji, I never thought YOU'D be one to enter the plan! Hello 88 it looks like you found your master. You're a part of the Sekirei plan now Shinji-kun, keep it a secret like you do your Nerv work, and keep 88 safe. Phase one is going along nicely, but you might try to get a few more Sekirei," the man was energetic and near manic.

Nearly dropping his phone, Shinji was completely confused by all that was going on around him. Shaking his head, "You know who I am, you know about Nerv? Who are you?" So many questions, so much confusion was just running rampant right now. Beautiful girls, strange men, and now some unknown plan?

"Oh! It's the professor! He's the CEO and raised me for a time!" Musubi pointed at the man waving at her over the screen.

Waving back at Musubi, the Professor just laughed for a moment, "Of course I know about you. When I have time I'll call back and we can talk. I haven't seen you in…years! Much to catch up on. But for now, take care of 88 for me until then. And remember…keep it secret or you'll face the full wrath of the MBI…well as far as we can with you my dear Third Child." And like that the image faded out leaving Shinji alone with Musubi who was still quite amorous about her new Ashikabi.

CEO, MBI, knew about Nerv? "He was the CEO of MBI?" Shinji asked incredulously! MBI was the largest creator of technology and telecommunications in the country, maybe the world! Tokyo-3 had their headquarters on the opposite side of the city than Nerv HQ! "What did I get myself involved in?" Shinji let the phone drop from his hands and Musubi caught it effortlessly.

Following Shinji as he got up and headed to the kitchen, "Professor just told me to find my Ashikabi. That I'll have to fight other Sekerei to protect you. And I will! I'll never fail you! But…c-can we eat again?"

"Y-yeah, I need to cook supper for Misato-san and myself…we can talk about where you'll be living and…" Shinji just sighed…he lost the bag of food he meant for supper tonight! Well, always had a few backup dishes in mind…just turn the mind off and start cooking. He'd talk to Misato about this, what MBI knew about Nerv, and how this professor knew about him when she got home. Hopefully.

X-X

"So what is this 'important' meeting going to be about? Somebody find a use for that corpse we have stinking up the city?" Misato drank heavily from her coffee mug. As Shinji was buying groceries about to have somebody butt plant on him, Misato was walking down the halls of Nerv with her college friend. Waving at a few techs and other acquaintances she knew at least partially, Misato was a little nervous about the sudden summons. Not everyday they get a mass summons of the command staff for an important announcement. Tilting her head back, "Or you think the commander is getting remarried or something?"

Nearly falling over, Ritsuko had to catch herself by putting her hand on the wall. A half laugh escaped her as she responded, "I doubt it's the latter. Commander Ikari is a bit to busy for such things. And I do know a little about what to expect. So if you promise me a little of your lunch, I'll give you heads up." Back in full stride, Ritsuko's eyebrow rose just a little to get Misato's ire up a little. Ever since Shinji started making lunches for her, Ritsuko started picking and sneaking bites from it.

"You could just ask him to make one for you, hell offer to pay for it and he'd still likely do it for free. You know how Shinji-kun is," Misato noticed a few people already going into the commander's office. Ibuki, Hyuga, Aoba, and a few others she didn't know off hand were ahead of them. Tugging on Ritsuko's coat to stall the progress a little. Drinking the last of her coffee, tossing the empty cup away, Misato felt a sting of regret about her comment. Poor kid, Misato was really starting to like him so mocking him for his fears of abandonment…bad form. But she did want to know what to expect, get the leg up on the others, "I'll give you some today though. So what is today's meeting about? Should we be worried?"

Popping a piece of nicotine gum into her mouth, Ritsuko's grin went feral. Guess the good doctor didn't get enough good food, Ritsuko was also eating junk food in college guess the trend continued. With an extra haughty spring in her step, "I only know that we've a special guest from Mid Bio Informatics, Minaka Hiroto. Some big project of theirs and they're letting us know what its going to be."

"MBI? Why do we have to bend over backwards for them! I'm sick of getting requests from them. We're fighting the angels, and this stupid tech company can just come in and tell us how to do it. Stupid," Misato did not like having her fingers tied. When fighting eldritch horrors, Misato did NOT like being reminded by some geek that she had to avoid parts of the city. Well gee Mr. Pocket Protector, I'll ask the angel to avoid your precious cell tower! Shinji nearly got punished for destroying a stupid hunk of metal after getting lit up by the last angel!

Rolling her hand over itself, Ritsuko nodded in agreement, but she still kept walking. Grabbing the door handle, "Can't help it. Their technology is all over the city. Aside the Eva themselves and the Magi, MBI tech is all over Tokyo-3, hell the world! Minaka-san is one of the richest men in the world. So if you want to use that body of yours and get a real sugar daddy…" With a wink, Ritsuko opened the door and stole inside before Misato could hurl anything at her.

Trembling a little with growing frustration, didn't help she felt her phone in her pocket complements of MBI, Misato composed herself before joining the others. "Hey everybody, we looking good on the grid?" Misato asked as she filed inline with the others. Meetings are a part of life, but if everybody was here, who was watching for the Angels?

"We're all in the clear, Katsuragi-san," Aoba said softly less he get the commanders' attentions. Nobody wanted to be called out by either older men, fear of power was never something that would be lowered.

Holding a hand up, Commander Ikari called for silence and then fixed his glasses. "I am reluctant to summon all of you here for this, but Minaka-kun demanded we have this meeting for his important project. I will not keep you here long, just long enough for the announcement, few questions, and that will be all," Gendo did not look happy. Man never looked anything other than neutral, so Misato found it odd to see that scowl. Why the anger?

Live on-screen, Minaka had a strange sense of mania about him, a real mad scientist vib. Wild hair, wide eyes, and a chaotic voice, "Thank you brother. I am reluctant to tell you this, but with your goals being what they are…guess I have to share the information a little. I have enacted the great Sekirei plan!" Arms going wide and off screen, that grin went even wider, and he said his oddity as if everybody was supposed to know what it meant.

Leaning in close to Ritsuko, Misato had to suck in some air as she whispered, "Did he say brother?" If the commander had a brother, why had Shinji grown up with some teacher in the middle of nowhere?

"What do you mean Sekirei plan? What does that mean to us?" Maya just had to ask and detract from Misato's question. Would that man ever try to take Shinji away now? But maybe a question for later, stupid need for actual information.

Doing the classic Gendo-ism and fixing his glasses, Minaka nodded twice, "Oh yes, I have kept them a secret. What you need to know is that I have released one-hundred-eight people with accelerated powers that will be hunting for their partners amid the population of Tokyo-3. Aside from MBI, Nerv, and those directly involved in the fighting…keeping it secret! So if you get reports of oddities, just let it slide, it is all part of my great plan!"

"Accelerated powers, and partners? Could you go into that Minaka-san? Does this have anything to do with the samples MBI provided me?" Ritsuko had a small notebook out and pencil in hand. Guess she was interested in this madness. The others were murmuring among one another about what it really mattered to them, and what Minaka meant by 'fighting'.

Spinning around in the footage, Minaka leaned back and his arms went wide as he reached for the sky. Loudly proclaiming, "Yes! Those samples. And I will not go into too deep of details, but they are superior to humans! And yes partners, Ashikabi, and you shouldn't look too shocked. Matoko Hyuga is one already, but you wouldn't know since he's been bound to silence till now. And they will be fighting one another, just letting you all know. Now I have…huh…brother this just got interesting, bye!" And like that, the image went out as if he hadn't been there…strange man.

"Well you heard what Minaka-kun had to say. All this means is that we might receive some strange Magi readings and reports of fights in the city shouldn't be considered important. Hyuga…stay after to give us more details about your current status. Dismissed," Gendo lanced the geeky tech with a fierce glare which nearly toppled him over.

Dragging Ritsuko away from the others, Misato noticed Maya nearly joined them but headed off to her station instead. "The commander has a brother? And what the hell is this whole Sekirei bs?" Misato was not liking anything complicating her revenge against the angels. And Matoko is some partner?" would explain his sudden shift in attention. Guy had been fairly evident with his attention a few weeks ago, now he was all work and left nearly instantly after shift. Misato thought he just got the hint she wasn't interested, but now…what were these 'enhanced humans?'

Spitting her gum away, Ritsuko tugged on her ear and tapped her foot, "Half-brother I think. Can't remember the whole of it, my mother said something once about it, never cared to look into it. And from what I can tell is these Sekirei are mostly like normal people, just their DNA is…unique. I'll have to get Hyuga to bring his in so I can get some samples. I had to fight and claw with MBI to get what little I did get. Go figure they are tightlipped. Now I have some work to do, later. Guess I'll get that lunch later…this new development needs my attention more than my stomach." With a wave, Ritsuko walked off and Maya was quick to trail behind her. Well, whatever that was, Misato wouldn't worry.

"Well, at least this shouldn't bother us to much. Going to keep Shinji-kun in the dark on this," Misato did not want his life more complicated. Finishing off her shift, a few strange reports of electrical discharges, and other oddities caught her attention. Was this already evidence of the 'Sekirei Plan'? Gods, what idiot thought Tokyo-3 was the best place from some dumb experiment? Crazy people of course. Getting into her car, the urge to hit the host club was rising…but no, best to get home and some good food and teasing in.

Driving past her hidden guilty pleasure, Misato really did almost stop, but a MBI advertisement soured her mood. Going to the club was losing its luster since Shinji moved in, no longer did she need fake people to pay her fake compliments and make her feel special. Shinji was doing that wonderfully AND it was a lot cheaper. The rest of the drive reminded Misato that the stupid MBI did really own much of the city, its tech was everywhere and everyone had it. Monopolies were a pain.

"Shinji-kun, I'm home. So if you have any of your girlfriends over, finish off quick and get us some supper," Misato teased as she walked into apartment. Hanging her coat and hat up on the Shinji installed hooks, she kicked her shoes off. Kid always blushed when she hinted at girls and girlfriends, so she had to get him to relax a little.

An unexpected voice called out that Misato did not recognize, "What do we need to finish off quick? And is she another of your group?"

A girl? Shinji DID have a girl over?! Oh, oh this was going to be great! Rushing into the kitchen before Shinji had the chance to try hiding anything or downplaying it, Misato nearly fell over when she rounded into the room. Pointing at strange girl, did…did Shinji hire somebody, "W-who are you? Shinji-kun you didn't get a pay-date did you? I'd bite the bullet if you needed a girl for a little love'n. Part of duties as your guardian." Giving the girl a good once over, girl must have cost a lot of yen! Cute face, curvy body, odd costume, and just bubbling with energy.

"Oh you ARE one of Shin-chan's Sekirei? Well I'll help you guard him now too! And loving Shin-chan is part of it?! I knew my heart and body got warm when he winged me! Teach me how to properly serve him!" the girl literally rushed to Misato's side and grabbed her hands. Eyes twinkling and mouth agape, the woman was just awash with joy…wait…Sekirei?

Trying to free her hands from the woman's grip, Misato found she was unable to find any purchase! Girl was stronger than she looked for damn sure! "Shinji-kun, what have you been up to? And you're a Sekirei? I-I'm not, just his commandeering officer at Nerv and legal guardian, not guardian-guardian. Call her off will you Shin-chan?" Misato was a little worried at how weak this girl was making her feel. And Shinji was brought into this madness of fighting 'enhanced people?'

"I have so little information on this, Misato-san. I had hoped you knew more than me. I-I got a call from the CEO of MBI a little while ago, he knew of me and Nerv. He even know I was a pilot! I ran into Musubi-sa…Musubi-chan today while on my way home," Shinji did not sound confident in any sense of the word. Patting Musubi's shoulder, the girl released Misato and went to Shinji's side and stuck to it. Putting food onto plates, handing the third plate to Musubi, Shinji sat at the table and went over what happened to him that day.

After Shinji's story, Misato popped open her can of Yebisu and drained half of it in one drink. "I just heard about this today as well. Hell sounds like the reason the odd-ball got off the line when he did was to talk to you!" Misato felt drained. Picking at her food, Musubi already on her third plate, Misato contemplated telling Shinji about his uncle but opted not. Too much to fast was never good for anybody. "Well it is getting a bit late, you should be heading back to MBI for the night Musubi-kun," Misato wanted time to let all of this sink in. And having Musubi here being all lovey-dovey with her ward would not help.

"But my place is with my Ashikabi-sama! Once a Sekirei is winged they cannot go back," Musubi said as she helped Shinji clean the table. On her back was a strange emblem Misato could have sworn she saw once or twice before. A bird with a yin-yang symbol under it with a crescent moon pattern under it.

Wait…winged? What did that mean? Getting up and slowly approaching the duo, Misato had to get some hands on data. Shinji couldn't lie well, and Misato knew he'd spill the beans by heart beat alone, "What is this winged business? You two didn't have sex did you? You're a bit young to have children Shin-chan, so I hope you used protection!" Feeling his heart spike to near worrisome levels, Misato doubted winging was sex now…kid would have died of a heart attack!

"I-I-I don't know the whole of it. B-but Musubi-chan k-kissed me and she grew wings of light from her back," Shinji was nearly vibrating in Misato's arms. Upon seeing Misato's actions, Musubi felt either left out, jealous, or just wanted in on it and joined Misato in a little three-way hug. Nearly overloaded, Shinji was nearly purple with embarrassment. Stammering badly, "I don't know why she did it. S-she just did. And that was when I got the call."

Letting go of the boy, tugging on Musubi's arms to get her to do the same. "Go take a bath, relax a bit alright. We'll…get a room set up for Musubi while we deal with this," Misato gave Shinji a push. What was this new craziness, Misato did not know or even how to approach it! Musubi was now stuck with Shinji? She was going to have to fight other people like herself. Finishing her drink, Misato wasn't wanting to think about it right now. Just let it all sink in.

"Let's go get your room ready Musu…" Misato looked about the room and found herself alone. Shinji had walked off first, then she drank her beer, and now…

Slowly Misato stalked the bathroom, she had to see this and maybe stop it. Peeking into the changing room, Misato saw Musubi alone disrobing with that big ol smile on her face. Girl was…girl was going to take a bath with Shinji? Dang, that girl was perky! Looking down at her own body, Misato felt a twinge of disbelief, superior DNA indeed!

"Shinji-san!" Musubi chirped and broke Misato from her comparison. Girl was fast moving, but something about her attitude made Misato less worried about slap and tickle. Shinji was way to nervous, Musubi to bubbly, they weren't going to do anything…right?

X-X

Sleep left him gently and Shinji found himself warm and comfortable. Nearly didn't want to start the day, just stay in this warm embrace and…embrace? Eyes opening widely, the light from his window only barely providing any help for his current condition, but it was enough. Before his eyes was a sight he wasn't strange to, but was still something that caused him to try to jerk away. Try being the proper term as the arms around him were steel and he was only cradled closer into Musubi's nearly exposed chest for his actions.

"M-Musubi-chan, it's time for me to make breakfast, c-could you let me go?" Shinji tried asking. Food tended to get Musubi to act in her sleepy moments, when awake she did literally anything he asked. A lot of power for a teenager to have, Shinji did his best to not abuse that. She murmured and squeezed harder, Shinji found himself nestled firmly in the uncanny valley that Musubi's split open shirt provided. Urge to sleep growing, it was just so warm and soft and…Misato would see this and it would be a nightmare!

Tickling Musubi's side, she giggled and thankfully tried to bat away the irritant allowing the trapped lad the chance to escape. Rolling out of her grip, replaced with his pillow, Shinji fled the room with his school cloths in hand. Third day with Musubi, and this was the second morning he woke this way. "She has her own room, Misato tells her to sleep in it," but Musubi opted to stealth into his after Misato went to bed. Temptation was high, super cute girl with a button up shirt that didn't fully button just pressing herself against him? Changing in the bathroom, "And she is just so…doting?"

Word he was leery of using was 'loving' as Musubi gushed and fawned over him, constantly swore she'd fight and protect him against all things. He never knew that type of loyalty, it scared him. Everything he loved was eventually taken from him, he shouldn't let her get to close. But it was so damned hard not to, it was Misato times a hundred! Peeking into the kitchen, nobody awake save Pen-Pen waiting for his can of sardines. Good, his heart still hadn't calmed down since Musubi's nestle of death. He did calm down though, no mess this morning. He had kept last mornings accident a secret, thankfully he did the laundry so nobody would now as his messy boxers were cleaned.

"How long will this go on? What does any of this Sekirei plan mean?" Shinji asked Pen-Pen as he poured the smelly fish into his bowl. Making breakfast and then a small lunch for himself, and much larger for Misato and Musubi, Shinji busied himself. Misato had him skip school yesterday to try learning more about Musubi and…didn't really help. She demonstrated her martial arts mastery and strength, but she just didn't know much about her kind. Each had a special talent or ability, the girls that fought her had electricity. But the fighting, winging, Ashikabi, and the whole plan business she just tilted her head and shrugged. Setting the table with a nice breakfast, he saw Musubi jiggling as she walked into the room rubbing her eyes, "Sleep well?"

Plopping down at the table, Musubi nodded once and smiled, "Yup! I sleep better with you Shinji-san! Best sleep in my life. And food smells great, but remember I get to make supper tonight!" She was just so energetic! Humming as she ate her food, she just swayed back and forth not aware she was hypnotizing the poor lad.

"Today or tomorrow we'll have to get her some bed clothing of her own. A show like this every morning might tempt the poor boy," Misato droned as she found her own seat. Picking up her chopsticks she poked Musubi in her exposure.

Caught red handed staring, Shinji felt himself heat up and dove into his own eating. Pot was calling the kettle black here, Misato was in her flimsy green top that was nearly translucent and her sleeping pants were less than tasteful. "I can take her after school to get a few things. Musubi-chan, would you like that? Meeting me after school? But…if you're out alone would you be in danger of those two ladies again?" Shinji peeked at the woman that pledged herself to him. It took Misato's explaining she heard this whole Sekirei/Ashikabi thing to accept it, still found it hard.

Nearly inhaling her chopsticks, Musubi's wattage increased tenfold at the option. Positively glowing, "Sure! I'll meet you right after you get done! This is going to be so much fun! And what do you meant tempt him?" Oblivious or not, Musubi just switched between Misato and Shinji.

"Think you want to take off early so I can explain things to princess here? Girl is a walking accident waiting to happen with her naiveté," Misato was more awake after her morning Yebisu. Winking at the lad as she fled the table, she put her hand on Musubi's shoulder to keep her seated. Patting that shoulder now, "Down girl, down. You'll see him after school. Until then you'll protect the house right? If you HAVE to exercise use the roof again alright? Shinji-kun, I'll deal with this for now."

Nodding, putting his dish into the sink, "I'll see you after school Musubi-chan. And try to listen to Misato-san alright? Be safe." He found himself acting outside his norm and actually patting her hand. She gripped it for a moment, so firm, and he nearly lost herself in her eyes. Would have had Misato not fake coughed and got him leaving. Still so much strange stuff going on, but the biggest oddity was Musubi. Fleeing the house, homework thankfully finished, Shinji beat feet to school.

Streets had the foul stench of wet garbage, the sun was lazily drying up the last of the fog and dew, and morning traffic was light. Without his SDAT player, Shinji let his fancy phone play a few tunes for him as he ran. Now he wasn't a normal teenager, depression did a number on the libido, Musubi was slowly eating away at that. The one picture Misato took using his phone had him flanked by the two women and his face about ready to burst. One teaser and one unknowingly teasing, kid was glad to have a few moments of peaceful alone-time.

"Ah, Ikari-kun, you're here today. Did Minamoto-kun get you your hand-outs alright?" the class-rep asked Shinji as he entered. The twin-tailed girl had a slight upturn of her lips as she saw him, she was with other people so Shinji suspected that was the cause of it. Taking the papers from Shinji as he offered, "Guess he did. Not still hurt are you? We were told by your guardian that you…strained yourself?" Her cheeks flushed a little…just what did Misato say he strained!?

Blinking rapidly, Shinji finally noticed it was a higher percentage of girls in class right now compared to guys. Women were damned scary to him, why would she care or even ask about him!? "Y-yeah he found my place. And yeah I'm fine now, just a little tender I guess," when Hikari took a fugitive glance down, Shinji fled to his seat. Best not to question any of this, whatever Misato said would be a mystery. He hoped. Feeling terribly tired now, thanks Misato, Shinji pressed his head against his desk and let it stay there until he felt a gently prod, "I'm fine Kensuke."

"I am not Aida-kun. If you are feeling unwell you should go to the nurse station," a docile female voice nearly devoid of emotion stated. Rei hardly reacted when Shinji jerked back to his seated position and nearly fell out of his seat. Tilting her head just a little, "Are you still unwell? Your groin recovered?"

DAMN IT! Why would Misato have said that!? And why was Ayanami so close, hell why was she even asking this? "I'm f-fine Ayanami-san. And it wasn't that, Misato-san was just teasing. We had a new…roommate move in and I was helping move her in. D-did you need anything?" he did his best to fight the memory of that smile. He failed gloriously and he replayed it as Rei lingered.

"No. I was unaware that Katsuragi-san took in another border," Rei hovered for a few more moments. Giving Shinji a firm examination with her eyes looking for something to find fault with. Finding nothing, she nodded and went back to her seat without further comment.

Waving at her as he left, "B-bye," his hand was left in the air lamely and a few other students snickered at him. Great, just great. Whatever, he'd never be popular, didn't want to be. Just wanted to glide back into the shadows. Sadly such was not to be as Kensuke and Touji took the moment of his lame goodbye. Sucking it up, he just waved at them, "Hey guys. Did I miss anything yesterday?"

"Shin-man returns! Thought you ran away again. And nope, not a thing. Same boring place with the same boring people," Touji sat to Shinji's front while Kensuke took the left desk. Throwing his books onto his actual desk, Touji went into an account of the day and the lack of any real events. Shinji had picked a good day to be absent as the only notable incident, according to Touji, was Ayanami watching his desk. Nudging Shinji with his elbow, "Think she has a thing for ya. Girl never watches anything but the window until now."

Knowing it was more complicated than that, Shinji just let it slide with a small hand wave off, "Anything to add?" He saw Kensuke and tried to talk a few times only for Touji to cut him off. Touji would dictate the conversations when allowed, so both smaller boys learned to just let the jock have his fill before trying to put a word in.

Turning his laptop around, Kensuke showed his friends something Shinji recognized. The two scary looking women! "You hear about the random fights happening around town? Bet its for a movie or something! Hot girls in skimpy costumes fighting one another! And look at these special effects! Hard to find pictures, but something cool is going on!" Kensuke showed a few additional pictures. Not all of them women, most but not all, but all were action pictures! Fighting, they were actually fighting and Musubi would be joining them. Not good, not good at all!

The trio fell into speculation on what the movie was about, Touji gushing about how attractive the fighters were. Eventually they shifted to television, games, and other random things. All during it Shinji just wondered how long until this whole Sekirei Plan became public knowledge. He lasted a day in school before he spilled the beans about his pilot status, maybe these other Ashikabi would slip and break the MBI decree. Would it be good or bad if his friends knew about Musubi and his condition?

Nothing outside the ordinary happened thankfully during the day. Boys ate lunch together with Kensuke showing them a new arcade game due in a few days. Touji got in trouble for falling asleep in the afternoon. All during it, Shinji was starting to worry, was Musubi fighting right now? And what would his buddies say if/when they saw the girl? Touji just had a habit of making mountains out of molehills and being really stupid around attractive girls.

"Well, I have to run some errands for Misato-san, so see you guys tomorrow!" Shinji yelped once Hikari let them go. Rushing out before they could stop him or even comment, Shinji found the gate crowded when he approached. Not a good sign, but maybe it was something OTHER than Musubi?

"Who is she?" "Girl is HOT!" "Do you see what she is wearing?" and multitude of other comments from the guys and girls piling up at the entrance did not fill Shinji with hope it was just something innocuous.

Spotting Shinji, Musubi in her combat regalia, gushed, "Shinji-san! Are you ready to go shopping?" Gliding through the throng of humanity with ease, Musubi was at his side and causing quite the stir. Grabbing his hand, many a gasp was heard, "Going to spend the whole afternoon together! Going to be so much fun!" People got out of their way, fingers pointed at them, Shinji saw Kensuke and Touji exiting the school and joining the gawkers as Musubi yanked him into moving.

Leaving the gossiping students behind, Shinji hoped this wasn't going to be another 'big deal.' Last thing he wanted was more 'fame'. Fame was synonymous with jealousy in some, and last thing he wanted was a fight over who got to 'date' Musubi. Just letting the fears drain down into the simmering caldron of his psyche, he tried to enjoy the shopping trip.

"So what did you do today after Misato-san left? Did you talk about anything before she left?" Shinji asked as they entered a clothing store. Musubi had filled the air with questions about his day until now. It was…nice to be asked so intently by somebody not doing it for work purposes. She genuinely wanted to know how he was, a new sensation for the boy.

Rubbing a cotton set of sleeping attire against her face, "It's so soft! And I got a nice workout on the roof. And we did talk a little…Misato-san made me promise to make your first time…special. What is your 'first time'?" The attendant nearby snorted and rushed off instead of asking if they needed help. Holding the offered clothing out to Shinji, "Feel it! Doesn't it feel great?"

Oh God! Oh God! Oh God! What the hell was Misato doing!? How the hell didn't Musubi know what Misato was saying!? About ready to flee, Shinji saw all eyes were on the two of them, they heard! Guy and a girl talking about…what did they think was going on here? Taking the offered top, it was super soft, he grabbed Musubi's hand and lead her to the cashier, "H-Hi, we'd like to p-purchase this please?" They were supposed to get more clothing, but Shinji was done and to frazzled to continue.

"Sure thing sir. W-would you and your girlfriend need anything else? W-with her size though, we might not be able to…cover…her," the clerk was doing her best to not break into laughing. Her body jerked and spasmed as a few stray chuckles left her. Bagging up the powder blue outfit, she handed it over along with Shinji's Nerv pay card.

Before Shinji could counter her claim of girlfriend, Shinji didn't know WHAT to consider their relationship, Musubi acted. Hugging Shinji tightly, her height advantage meant she enveloped his head, and the clerk just burst into a fit. "Thank you Shinji-san! I can't wait to try it on tonight! We should get you a set as well! We could be matching! Think Misato-san will let us sleep together without me needing to sneak in?" she asked with pure innocence. Store didn't believe that and now whispers and a stray picture were taken.

Yup, time to leave! Taking Musubi's hand, Shinji ran out of the store and down the street. Musubi could easily keep up, she was far more physically fit than he was after all. But when Shinji, in his blind run, collided with somebody, she caught him before he could hit the ground. "I-I'm sorry, didn't mean to hit you…" Shinji just pointed as his body chilled.

"You! The kid that stole Useless from…Useless!" the girls from before turned to one another than Musubi. Now clad in bunny girl outfits holding signs for a café. Dropping their signs, rushing towards the pair, "You didn't wing her already did you? Fights are so much easier with unwinged!"

Shifting from light hearted and positive to…well still positive and excited but the focus came to laser level, Musubi acted. Quickly pushing Shinji behind her, getting into a stance, "I have found my Ashikabi-sama! I will fight and win for Shinji-san!" Lashing out with a quick one-two punch at the black haired woman closest to her. First hit struck the assailant's shoulder and the second was blocked by crossed arms and send the woman sliding back along the ground.

Letting out a guttural roar, the woman reached back, energy building in her hands, she punched forward with her electrical enhanced fist. Musubi caught it with her connected palms, yet the power washed over her. It ate at her clothing leaving her nearly fully exposed…topless save for some tattered remains barely clinging to life. "Shit, you are winged. No matter fighting you now. Lets go," the twins nodded at one another and leapt away.

Quickly grabbing the pajama top, Shinji found it was nearly to small but did cover Musubi better than Misato's shirts. "What was that? Let's get you home…guess we need to get you even more clothing," Shinji hurriedly took the girl home and found some of Misato's clothing for the rest of the day. But watching Musubi fight had been…movies didn't do it justice. She effortlessly shifted from date mode into combat, and the concrete had been damaged by her sudden motion and the woman dented the ground upon being hit. Just what were Sekirei, and how were they so strong!

X-X

Fixing her clothing as best she could, Ritsuko was just a little out of breath. What started as a little update on the Dummy System escalated into some early afternoon fucking. Gendo did like to spice things up from time to time, today was to Ritsuko's benefit. Old man enjoyed eating clam, she obliged him. Not the best at it, but hey, no work on her part. But she had another meeting across town in about an hour so she had to make tracks.

"Was there anything else, sir?" Ritsuko winked. Once the clothing was on, it was all business. Buffing out the sweat stain of her ass from the ebony desk, Ritsuko felt good. Projects were moving along as she needed, avenues of progress opening up to her, and all she had to do was play around with old men. Before her little game started, Ritsuko almost started having feelings for the old man across from her. Hiroto informed her of a few choice parts of Gendo's past, and he likewise, so no...no real emotions.

Tossing the good doctor a USB thumbdrive, Gendo picked up his glasses and slid them back on. Just as neutral as always, "This is the information we've gotten from Hyuga's apartment. Camera picked up some interesting things. I want you to see if these Sekirei can be used in anyway to further the scenario. Or if we can find a way to neutralize them if the need arises. Hiroto will not ruin what we've started. Agreed?" Putting his jacket back on over his undershirt, he stretched into it as best he could.

"Will do sir. Do you think this plan of his will be of any concern?" Ritsuko pocketed the slip of data. Likely things she already knew, but she had to play stupid. Give up to many secrets and then people started to suspect. They suspect they start sending Section-2 and bugging apartments. Then the game ended. Ritsuko liked the game. Her game. Feeling her shoe start to slip off, she kicked it hard, "And should we inform the pilots about any of this? There is a chance they could be exposed to it."

Shaking his head, Gendo pulled out a small bottle from his desk, mineral water prescribed by his doctor Ritsuko knew, and drank a hearty amount. Dribbling a little, "Not unless the event actually occurs. From what I was told, these creatures sense something in latent DNA of there masters. With her being what she is, we have no fears." He didn't bother mentioning his own son, Ritsuko found that hilarious. Man either hated the boy or was terrified of him, time would tell which.

"What of the Third?" Ritsuko pushed the envelope because it made him squirm. Anybody else asking he'd have ignored it. When his head of secret black projects asked...it wasn't out of some silly whim. No, the good doctor had to know for science reasons. Feeling her phone start to vibrate, a text message thankfully, she took it out and saw Misato's contact info...what did she need?

Steepling he his hands to hide his expression, Gendo leaned forward and sighed lightly. Almost grumbling, "If he is exposed to it, then we will inform him. But he will be excused from the insanity Hiroto is plotting. Man finds something and thinks he owns it..." Gendo shook his head and waved his hand dismissively.

Knowing when to push and when to be pushed, Ritsuko saluted and left without further egging. Leave with Gendo thinking he had all the power, that she was the dutiful lover. Flipping open her phone once she left the office, she read Misato's message and licked her lips. "Oh, this day just keeps getting better!" she tittered. Really was her day after all. Misato wanted her to come over for supper. Apparently something odd happened and Misato wanted an 'experts opinion' on it. Seeing her side project working, Ritsuko scanned the deck for anybody that might notice. Finding nobody, "Hey Maya, what you up to this weekend? Thinking of getting a few people together for a nice bar stop."

"Oh! S-sempai! I didn't know you were here today," Maya blinked rapidly. Busy working on calibrating the electrical system, still out of sorts since the massive re-routing, she spun away from her computer. Not wearing the nicer uniform and sans makeup, the girl timidly kept her eyes on the floor. Voice just a little higher than normal, "A-and who else would you be inviting?"

Not sure if Maya was actually interested in her or not, Ritsuko just played with the little mouse. "Not sure yet. Idea just came to me. And I was called in by the Commander about Hyuga's little pet. He is concerned that this Sekirei Plan might interfere with our daily operations. If we have fighting in the city, unlikely but possible one of the children could get hurt. Hell they could destroy a munitions stockpile and blow up a block. So he is having me look into some counter measures. And I must say you have a rather lovely complexion, new skin cream?" Ritsuko reached out and casually...like a friend...patted Maya's cheek.

"Y-yeah actually I am. Shocked you could notice. T-think anybody else does? And as for this weekend...I'll see if I'm open," Maya pulled just a little away from the scientist. Spinning back to her work, she quickly entered a few commands to close a side application but tried to make it look as if it was just random keystrokes. Maya had been watching a video of the last sync test, Ritsuko saw the familiar name pattern for all those files. O-ho that was a fun bit of knowledge. Why might she be watching that?

Something fun to play with later, "Well let me know when you know. Talk to you later." With a wave, Ritsuko exited the bridge and the compound. Aside from her aids in the lab, the commanders, and the bridge crew nobody talked to her. Intimidated by the lowly daughter of the great Naoko Akagi, they'd all learn she was the true great Akagi in the end! Checking her phone again, time was moving and she'd have to take a cab instead of the train or she'd be late. Texting one of the companies with her free new phone, Hiroto just had an extra or so he said, she was met at the gates.

"MBI central tower please, and do try to be quick. I've an important meeting," Ritsuko told the old man behind the wheel. Seeing the 'No Smoking' sign, she lit up anyway. Judging from the man's heavy set frame, balding head, and dark circled eyes she doubted he had the strength of character to say anythign to her. He didn't, didn't say a word the whole ride in fact. They made good time though, she tipped him double the cost of the ride, "Now this is our little secret I hope."

The man nodded and opened his mouth to thank Ritsuko, but she shut the door on him. Old yellow and crooked teeth, what good would he have to say to her anyway? Bypassing the Visitor's entrance and going straight to security, Ritsuko waved her badge at the armed men and they opened the door for her. They knew their place, and knew to erase the footage of her entering and leaving. Last guard that questioned her was fired, don't mess with the boss's special guests.

Finding Hiroto in his office, pouring over screens of various attractive men and women roaming the city, some fighting, and others just going about there days, Ritsuko shut the door loudly. "Sorry for being late. Had a little chat with one of my co-workers about a night out drinking. Oh and my meeting with Gendo went later than expected," Ritsuko casually approached the CEO of the mighty MBI.

"Ah, Ritsuko, just who I was hoping to see today! What is my dear half brother's worries today? Did you see the arboretum has burst to life with massive plant life! One of my little seeds has taken root there, wonder who will collect that one!" Hiroto gestured to one of the screens. It was a news report, but the sound was off, so all Ritsuko saw was a titan bulk of green and brown, nearly cutting off the whole place. Tossing his coat onto his desk, "And how goes our little side project?"

Just as Gendo was planning to supplant Hiroto, so was the inverse...they truly were related. "Same worries as always, and aside the Eva's and the Magi, your software has been integrated into the GeoFront allowing you near full access to the base. And I have started the genetic sequencing. Be a little while until I can learn anything...without further samples from your side," she tried to sound depressed, she wasn't doing enough for him. Now if she thought she could get him in the sack, she might have tried. But no, Hiroto was going to take a bit more seduction to get fully wrapped around her pinky.

"I can get you a few extra samples, I'll have them shipped to the same place as usual. Now how about we play a little game? We can talk and play," Hiroto already had a Go board out with bowls of tokens. An odd man, he just wanted attention...wanted to be apart of something...to be the one in charge. So Ritsuko favored him a game, her ear, and when she left having let him win...a soft kiss on the lips. He didn't fight her off this time, progress. She got what she wanted, left him thinking he had her in his pocket, and off to Misato's she went, complements of the company car that drove her there.

Hearing a bit more excitement behind Misato's door than normal, she wondered for a moment. Did Misato finally snap and just start fucking the kid? Woman was a physical creature, talked enough about Shinji for Ritsuko to know she liked him. But...nah...she would have to be REALLY drunk for that. Hitting the buzzer, "Let me in you lush, and you better not be doing something stupid in there. I came for supper not to..."

"Oh so you're Akagi-san? Shinji-san she's here so can we eat now?" Musubi all but ran from the door leaving Ritsuko in the dust. She had been wearing a nearly bursting blue sleeper that had a button missing.

Letting herself in and shutting the door behind her, Ritsuko was not expecting that. Who was this girl, why was she at Misato's, and what relationship did she have with Ikari-kun? Finding Misato on the couch, three cans of empty Yebisu on the table and a forth in her hand, Ritsuko smiled genuinely for the first time all day. "Having a bad day, having anything to do with?" she pointed at Musubi's rear that was bouncing in the doorway.

"Grab yourself a can, or I can have Shinji-kun make you something stronger. You're going to want a drink for this shit I have to tell you," Misato crushed a can on the table with her foot and punted it. Always the amazon, always the drama queen, and always Ritsuko's friend.

Taking one of the cans from the case on the ground, still cold meaning Shinji got better at keeping the swill in stock, Ritsuko cracked it open. Tapping her can to Misato's, "So what is this all about? Who is that girl? Not pregnant I hope." Sipping the nasty drink, she would ask Shinji for a rum and coke when before he sat down.

Listening to the two in the kitchen prattle on, "Yeah, Musubi-chan. My newest roommate. You know that Sekirei bullshit?" Misato just nodded her head towards Musubi's still visible bum, whatever the girl was doing she was excited by the bouncing. Flipping the television to a comedy, "Day we were told, hell WHEN we were being told. Musubi literally fell on Shinji-kun. I'll let them tell the whole story. And I don't think she's pregnant, even though she sneaks into his room ever damn night."

"That girl is a Sekirei and she's bound to Ikari-kun?" Ritsuko nearly dropped her drink! Access, she had FULL access to one of these things now? Oh this was just the strawberry on the shortcake! Pounding the drink as Shinji and Ritsuko's newest guinea pig entered the room with plates and food, Ritsuko nearly popped with excitement! This was...this was perfect! "So, Ikari-kun, I hear you've joined the Sekirei Plan then? Musubi-kun was it? How about telling me what you know, I've worked with MBI a little, I might help," Ritsuko knew everything was going her way!

So they ate and talked, Ritsuko took note of just how doting and fawning Musubi was to Shinji. She also noticed the boy was crushing HARD on the top heavy fighting machine. Good, good, she could use this. A little drunk, she asked "So can you make wings anytime he kisses you?"

"I-I don't know, we only k-kissed that one..." Shinji tried talking but Musubi was more a try and see type. So she did just that, nearly atop the boy, they locked lips and Misato and Ritsuko were given a show. Yes...this was perfect. A new player entered the game, and Ritsuko was going to find the best way to use them!

X-X

"You two ready for this? Tired of Musubi-kun wearing my clothing and stretching it all out," Misato called back into the apartment. A week of Musubi living with them, and Misato was actually starting to like the girl. Hard not to, Musubi was just so light hearted and energetic. Plus her innocence really let Misato up her teasing game on Shinji. Kid was just so easy to fluster, and Musubi's obvious affection for him was doubling it. Good, Shinji needed something his age in his corner...even if Musubi was a few years older than him. Not hearing them coming, "You two aren't doing something bad are you?"

Hurrying to the door, his adorable scowl present, "Misato-san! If you keep saying things like that Musubi-chan will start doing things! You know this!" When he tried to be firm and 'angry' it just came off so silly. Kid could NOT do angry to save his life, must not have inherited that trait from his father. Pulling his shoes on, Shinji just grumbled to himself as he got ready.

Smiling blithely at the pair, Musubi was again wearing some of Misato's clothing since her battle attire got destroyed. Without a bra, Misato's did NOT fit, Musubi just bounced everywhere, "So where are we going today? And I like your clothing, its cute!" Helping Shinji to stand up, Musubi just would never let her beloved Ashikabi be unguarded.

Leading the charge out of the apartment after locking it, "To the mall. Got to get you something more your size. And we'll hit a few shops that Shinji-kun here shouldn't take you to alone. Boys get tempted in stores like that, he might drag you to some love motel or into the changing room and...savage you." Not believing it at all, it set both of them off though and Misato liked that. As much as Shinji complained about it, she saw him relaxing and blushing. Get him thinking about things like that. Help him get past that whole hedgehog thing Ritsuko said he had. Unlocking the car, "So who wants front seat, can't have both of you in the back."

"Musubi-chan can have it," Shinji all but threw himself into the back. Guess her driving still scared him a little. A few close calls with trucks might do that to a person, but Misato knew she was a good driver! He strapped in and fixed the seat so Musubi could get in, the pains of two-door cars. Being the worrier he was thought, "Make sure you stap yourself in good and tight. Misato-san tends to speed."

She had to finagle with the buckle to get it around her insipid chest, but Musubi followed orders well. Wiggling into the seat, "Why can't we both just sit in back? I like being close to Shinji-san." The pureness of that statement got Misato thinking. Why did Musubi care so much about the young lad. Sure he was doting on her, cooked her favorite foods, but they had only known one another for such a short time. Something Misato would ask once she got her away from the boy.

"Easy enough reason Musubi-chan! Men like to get frisky with their ladies in the backseat. Don't know why, its so cramped back there, but they do. Sit back there with him and he'll pounce you!" Misato put the car into gear and off they went. Focusing on the drive, one of passions, she let the engine sing. Oh she heard a whimper or two from Shinji, but Musubi got a thrill out of it! Zipping around cars, blasting through yellow lights, feeling the engine purr, it was a good drive. She pulled back on the reigns of the teasing, let the two chat among themselves as she got her adrenaline dosage. Finding a good parking spot, she liked to park away from the building so she didn't need to remember where she parked. "Alright, lets try not to take the whole day. And we'll use the Nerv card to pay for things. Musubi-chan has been listed as your personal body guard and we can't have her arrested for indecent exposure."

Walking backwards, hands behind her head, Musubi's eyes went wide, "Really? I thought you said you wouldn't be able to do that! What changed?" The notion of having the nearly indestructible girl put on the payroll had been batted around a few times over the last few days. With Musubi not wanting to be away from the lad, her true nature, it only made sense to at least try.

"Yeah, I was worried it wouldn't get approved. But Ritsuko put in a few good words and got it going. Does mean she'll want to poke and prod you a little while Shinji is on base. Scientist types are always wanting to know things. And you are a pretty big thing, all of your kind are," Misato confessed. Frowning a little, the damn place seemed to be packed today, great. Wrapping an arm around Shinji's neck, she kept him close. He was rattled by it, but with so many strangers...one lone crazy who had knowledge of the pilots could do a lot of damage. Mama bear Misato was in full effect, but played it off as affection.

Calming down after he found Misato just wouldn't let go, Shinji submitted to the ordeal. "What should we start with first? And I guess I should thank Ritsuko-san for helping us. Any thing you can think of that I can do for her?" Shinji's eyes danced around the shops. People and him just did not get along, afraid of them, afraid of so much. Hopefully Musubi and she could help change that, show him people could be trusted.

Leading her happy little duo to the first shop, toiletries and dishware, Misato knew what would make Ritsuko's day. "Make her some lunches. She's always stealing mine and..." Misato saw something she didn't like. That strange symbol she was shown during the big reveal party from MBI, the bird with the yin-yang symbol. It was on the back of a red haired girl examining some ceramics, glasses, big chest, braided hair...was she a Sekirei as well? Misato was always trying to find who was and who wasn't one now!

Thankfully the others didn't notice, lost in their own world of picking out what stuff Musubi should have. "That sounds easy enough to do, I'll do that then," Shinji replied as Musubi held up a cup. Of course it looked like his, which defeated the purpose of having personal cups for the bathroom. Musubi didn't see it that way and kept trying to get the exact same thing Shinji had down to the same toothbrush! Oh Misato could see Shinji's brain working on things like indirect kisses and other teenage issues. Ah the joys of youth, best not to let him know she used whatever cup she wanted so...yeah.

They made their purchase for Musubi's bathroom needs and dining needs and moved onto the next shop. Towels, bathrobes, and the like. But again as they headed from one store to the next, Misato spotted something she didn't like again! This time Shinji did notice, but for quite the obvious reason. Woman with long purple hair, a shade or two lighter than her own, wearing a purple dress that went just down to her upper thigh and showed off a lot of skin. Fuck, maybe all female Sekirei were stupid top heavy! This woman with the same damn crest was flopping around like mad! "Don't stare to much, Shin-chan, you'll make Musubi-chan jealous," Misato biffed the back of Shinji's head. Did...did the woman actually look at them as they passed? Misato thought she caught the subtle look.

"You were looking at that woman? D-do you want me to dress like that? Shinji-san shouldn't leer at strange women. Not when I'm here, you can leer at me if you want!" Musubi just proved Misato's point. Excellent, keep them distracted. But still, if there were only 108 of these things running around, Misato worried about finding two already! Were they going to fight? Were they in danger now?

Shop after shop was hit up, clothing, utensils, and other amenities were acquired and Misato insisted the man in the group carry it all. Musubi offered to help, but Misato laid down the laws, boyfriend carried the goods. Kids didn't know any better so she had fun making Shinji the walking wall of bags. After all of the simple things were purchased, Misato was started to get a little tired and hungry, "How about you go get us a table at one of those cafes, Shinji-kun. Musubi and I have one last shop and its for girls only." Nodding her head at Musubi's on display goods, got more than a few looks over the course of the day, she hoped he got the hint.

"S-Sure thing, uh...did you want me to get your drinks ordered or just wait?" Shinji swayed comically thanks to the packages making him unbalanced. Averting his eyes from the top heavy girl that just didn't know she was putting on a show, Shinji took a few steps away.

Walking up to the trio, a person Misato was not expecting to see again called out, "So this explains why you stopped coming to the club, Katsuragi-san. You've a man and a girl now?" a gray haired man in a fancy suit waved at them.

"Kagari-kun? Oh I-uh...hey! Didn't expect to see you here. H-how goes?" Misato suddenly felt very exposed. Never did tell Shinji about the host club she liked to visit from time to time, and her was one of her favorite entertainers. "A-and yeah, work got a bit crazy. I mentioned Shinji-kun to you last time. H-here he is and this is Musubi-chan his girlfriend. Just doing some shopping. You?" It was like being caught cheating, but who was she cheating on and with whom?

Giving Shinji a strange once over, Kagari nodded a few times with a pensive look about him. Shaking off whatever thought he had, "He isn't what I was expected based on what you said. And yeah, club needs a few things, I offered to get them. I won't keep you, see you when you visit the club again." Misato was not used to the aloof and collected man to be so quick and rattled. Something spooked him and the guy just fled.

Feeling both sets of eyes on her, Misato turned away from her departing bit of fun to see very confused Shinji and Musubi. "I-uh...I visit, used to visit...haven't been in a long time...a host club. Nothing dirty, they have good drinks, nice to just vent from time to time...since you moved in I haven't had the need...oh this is embarrassing. Just go get the table already!" she started laughing at the silliness. With a derpy smile on his face, enjoying her frazzled nerves, Shinji rushed off with the promise of his own teasing subject now brewing in his mind.

"Host club? What do they do there?" Musubi asked as she took a long step after Shinji. Misato's hand on her shoulder kept the Sekirei from following Shinji to the cafe. Following Misato to the last shop for the day, manikins showing lacy and cotton offerings. Misato watched as Musubi played with her long tail of hair. Girl had a lot of hair going down the back, not so much the sides. Pointing at the lewd offerings, "Do you think Shinji-san would like me to wear something like this? You said he was staring at that one woman."

Yeah, best not to tease TO much with Musubi being so gullible about things Shinji related. "Oh he would likely die of blood loss if you wore something like that. And with how much you train...you'd just tear it. So lets get you something more durable than honeymoon night clothing. And the club was just a place I used to go...nothing special. And I was just teasing about that woman, no need to worry. But mind if I ask WHY you like Shinji-kun so much? He's..." Misato didn't know how to quantify her ward. He was a basket of conflicting qualities. She liked him, saw a lot of herself in him, but why would this woman who just met him care THIS much?

"He's gentle. Being gentle is a rare and beautiful thing in this world. I like seeing him smile, I like how he makes me feel. I'll fight to project that smile, that gentleness. And what makes that honeymoon and this not?" Musubi held up the racy thing to her chest.

In that moment, Misato was struck by the utter earnest answer she got from Musubi. She expected a lot of answers, but what she heard was not anything she considered. But upon hearing it...yeah it made sense. He was gentle, despite all the things life hurled at him, kid WAS gentle..fragile. "Well...buy it and show him. You'll see what I mean," Misato would protect both of them. As best she could, she'd help and protect both of these stupid kids. And maybe just maybe push them in the right direction.

They bought more practical things and that lacy nightmare, Misato couldn't wait to hear Shinji's scream upon seeing that number! They had a lovely lunch and when they got home...Misato found the eviction notice on the door. Only cats and dogs allowed, no 'unapproved pets' and the damn super found Pen-Pen waddling on the veranda. FUCK two weeks and then they'd be homeless!

X-X

Notes

I don't know how big this story will go...thinking 10-15 chapters long, but I might make it longer depending on how much fun I can squeeze out of it. Going to be a nice mix of comedy, action, and well...those Sekirei tend to want a lot of affection from their Ashikabi. Hope you enjoy this oddity and I'm glad to be back writing something. Depression sucks, work is frustrating, but writing gives me a nice outlet for my brain. Hope you get some enjoyment from it!

Later

Mercaba