Hello, and welcome to the next chapter!

Clarent excalibur; Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it! Yeah, Kocho definitely is a smart person. That would be funny if she did say something like that~

Blaze2121; Yeah, that would be pretty funny. Yeah, there's gonna be plenty of progression~

Kaiserguardian; Good question, Karasuba might enjoy it. Naoya and Karasuba will have confrontations rather soon. Yeah, lets hope Toyotama gets a happy ending, however that turns out. I'm glad you like stuff like that~

Shadow Joestar; Thanks very much! Yeah, he's going to be meeting Kocho this chapter! He's gonna try his best to save her yeah~

MDM11; That would be an interesting story to do, thanks for the suggestions~

ShadowUzumaki55; Yeah, it's time for them to meet. Homura seems to be going through a number of things it seems. He's going to do his best to help wing Akitsu. That's the Brain type for you, she's able to use her mind to overcome her enemies.

Sl; Thanks! There will be soon.

Silver crow; Thanks! Yeah, Saki's gonna have a role in the story. Homura's reacting alright. Yup, they would be. No, it wouldn't be like that, I meant like have the Jinki Seo gets, and be the one with knowledge on Sekirei and other things to help Minato out, things like that. Naoya's still the main character. Naoya doesn't know about the Sekirei dream thing yet, and he did try to bring it up, but was cut off, and since it at the time didn't seem so important, he didn't think he needed to bring up the slightly weird dream. He wants Akitsu to be happy, if she did react to someone else, then he'd support her. Kocho has ideas on what Karasuba wanted, otherwise she wouldn't know what to actually download for her. Yashima managed to finally say her thanks to Homura. Uzume's pretty smart, so she could figure it out. Maybe it was intentional. Takami wishes to help out yeah. Saki's a pretty talented person. Yeah, Karasuba wasn't a happy person. Yup, Akitsu and Yashima did their best to help Kocho out. Naoya thought about it from all angles, trying to understand, while Homura's trying to fight off reactions. Glad you liked the fight~ Naoya's gonna live at the Inn soon. It would be the Six Tails most likely. Blue Flames are Azula's thing, I'd probably have his have a unique flare to them. He'll be influenced by his Uncle a good deal. I don't know if it is going to be a harem or not yet. He'd be pretty strong. I have an idea what his Mangekyo powers would be, it wouldn't be Shin's. Yeah, he might do~ I wouldn't know what though. Danzo...he's going to be interesting to write about. That's all I can say right now. That's a cool outfit. Yeah, he'll be getting promoted through the series when it comes about. Those summons are cool. Yeah, his Sage Mode was awesome. Itachi and Konan are some of my favourites too, I like Kisame, and Hidan is someone I find rather entertaining. It's sad what happens to Konan, maybe she'll get a better result in my story. I might do the movies, at least some of them, I haven't made up my mind yet. They'd be pretty cool people to meet~ I don't know if I'd do Boruto era yet, sticking to Naruto for now. Yeah, her style is unique. It definitely is a friendly Tailed Beast. I like Tobi yeah. They'd be cool as the Oc's eventual peerage. Ravel probably will be. Maybe they could say that. Teslo Karma would be cool. If I did Regulus, I'd probably not have Sairaorg, who I do like quite a bit, essentially replacing him most likely. He could gain a firebird, to contrast to Akeno's oni masks. He could be an inventor. Yeah, maybe he could have Kaguya. They'd be cool to survive, Izumi probably would be with Itachi, being like a big sister to the Oc. He wouldn't fall to it. It would start before the events of the massacre. Depending on Naruto's situation, Hinata could be.

Guest 1; I wont forget.

Marbled Gold; Thanks very much! Haha, I hope it wasn't too bad of a wait~ Yeah, Uzume's great, and I try my best for each girl to get a good deal of development.

blazes207; Thanks! Yeah, Kocho's gonna be joining quite soon~ Yeah, lets see who he wings too~ Miya could be, and thanks!

Guest 2; That would be pretty cool. I like the sound of that. Thanks for the suggestions!

Skull Flame; Haha, she definitely does~ Kocho's in quite a bit of trouble.

Eavise; Ichiya would be pretty cool. I'm sure she would be quite rebellious.

Andrew123456; I am yeah. Yeah, it would probably be the Six Tails. Thanks for the votes!

Guest 3; Yeah, the Six Tails probably would be the one I'd have. It was sad. Hotaru might be. Thanks for the suggestions!

Guest 4; That would be a pretty cool idea! I like that idea of that Imperial Arm. Thanks for the suggestions!

Guest 5; The poll will end in a week or two.

AlphaOmega; Kocho didn't see any other choice, she didn't want Karasuba to get any information. Yup, Akitsu will eventually get winged~ Homura's going through a few things. Yeah, Saki's on the Disciplinary Squads side, but she's gonna have some fun in the story. The other twins huh, could be fun. Thanks for the votes on the poll!

Lightwave; Karasuba thought that Kocho wouldn't try it, since she was so intimidating and scary. She did yeah, Akitsu's got some hope for the future, and Chiho has also. Kocho's no pushover. We'll see what happens next~ Yeah, they'd be cool~ Thanks for the votes!

Guest 6; Yeah maybe he could be~

Guest 7; I'm glad you like it so far~ Yeah they could be! Thank for the votes!

Guest 8; Yeah sure, thanks for the votes! Maybe they could have a romance~

Well, with those reviews out of the way, it's time to start the chapter!

Protect Kocho part two

Naoya, Uzume, Yashima and Akitsu were heading towards the location that Homura was said to be in.

Uzume had Naoya strapped to her back, as they dashed through the city.

Naoya was currently on the phone to his Mother, having gained the last location from her, they were heading off in that direction.

"I don't get it Mom, why didn't Homura-san wait for us to come? Not even informing us..."

[I don't know. However, I do know that Homura could be in danger. This Sekirei Naoya, No. 55, she's quite unassuming, but she's very skilled with a blade, and she's basically MBI's assassin. Her skills in assassination aren't anything to be laughed at, and with Homura's condition…]

Takami didn't reveal the full truth, she did suspect the reasons why Homura didn't inform Naoya, but until she confirmed them, she didn't want to reveal anything about Homura's private business.

"Homura-san's unable to control the flames right?"

Naoya asked while worrying more for the flame Sekirei.

[Right, Homura is a unique Sekirei...either way, I need you to get there, as soon as you can.]

"We'll be there within five minutes tops."

[Good, while Homura isn't answering, the GPS is still active so if Homura's in the vicinity of the phone, then you'll also locate No. 22 most likely, and No. 55 if Homura is fighting.]

"I know Mom, we'll do our best."

With that, Naoya and the others doubled their efforts, and shot off as fast as they could, knowing that they only had a limited time before something bad could happen.

Moving quickly and with as much speed as they could muster up, Uzume and the other Sekirei moved through the air as if they were gliding. Though he himself wasn't a Sekirei, he could only focus on helping Homura in that moment, and make sure that nothing bad happened.

Eventually, they arrived in the location that Homura was in, and saw Homura on the ground, while Saki was moving closer to Kocho. Kocho herself looked on with lidded eyes, she could see that Homura was down so she wasn't sure what she was going to do.

"You're doing the right thing Kocho-chan, no need to make this difficult now..."

Homura tried to lift a hand to fire off some flames, but before being able to do so, Uzume's veil zipped past, and grabbed Saki from behind, wrapping around her body, surprising Kocho, and flung her backwards, away from the brain type Sekirei, slamming her against a nearby wall.

"Homura-san, we're here!"

Homura's eyes went back towards Naoya, seeing how all four of them had shown up.

Naoya then saw Kocho, and his eyes widened.

It was her…

The girl that he dreamed about all this time.

"...It's you, the girl from my dreams..."

Kocho's eyes broadened slightly, before feeling a pulsation from her heart.

Her eyes lingered on the boy, seeing everything about him.

"This sensation in my chest...my body is overflowing with heat...no, I can't be reacting to him...if I do, then he'll also be dragged in...it can't be...this boy, is supposed to be my Ashikabi…He's going to be in danger..."

Kocho's legs crossed as she placed a hand over her left bosom, clutching at some of the frills on her dress.

"Naoya-kun, you said you dreamed about her?"

Uzume questioned.

Naoya nodded slowly.

"Yes, I dreamed about her, for several nights now. Letters...numbers...she wanted me to prove that I could be her Ashikabi, that I'd make real changes..." Naoya tried to approach Kocho, but she pulled back. "W-Whats wrong?"

"Stay away from me..."

"But, why? What's going on?"

Kocho turned her head to the side.

"Just stay away...I don't want anyone else involved..."

Naoya didn't quite understand.

Saki peeled herself off the wall.

"First it's getting attacked with fire, now it's with veils." Saki groaned, her eyes going towards Uzume and the others. Her eyes landed on Naoya, and she grinned. "Aaah, you've got a cute Ashikabi, and that scar, shows me he's willing to battle! I'm kinda excited now~"

Uzume stepped before Naoya, seeing Homura was gasping for release of the flames.

"You wont get past me, so don't even try it."

Yashima also stepped up.

"Me too."

Saki points to Yashima, then Akitsu.

"I remember you two, you stopped me before. It's like a reunion. But not of the good kind. Maybe it could end up being a good reunion if we all pool our energies together, and have a massive fight. But that wouldn't be fair. I'd be totally caught up with three Sekirei's in one. I'd say four, but it seems that flame Sekirei there is going to burn out eventually."

As their conversation continued, Kocho saw this as an opportunity for her to make an exit.

So she began silently moving away from the area.

"This time our Ashikabi is here. He can Norito with us, so don't try anything weird."

Saki pouted at Yashima's words.

"That's not fair, don't be mean~ You're going to be all like, shooting at me, and using Norito to power up, I'd probably be discovered, and executed."

"It's called protecting the Sekirei known as No. 22, we can't let you get her!"

Uzume declared, while Saki twirled her sword.

"I guess that I'm at a disadvantage. Unless, you wanna fight one on one? Like the good old Sekirei battles are usually like~? Is that fine sweeties~?"

Naoya blinked at her attitude, she seemed rather upbeat despite being cornered.

"That's fine with me, I'll be your opponent."

Uzume stepped up, Saki grinned, and began moving forward.

"Great, then I am No. 55, Saki, and I shall..." Her eyes drifted to Kocho, who wasn't there. "...ooh crap, she's gone!"

Naoya looked, and saw the same thing.

"W-Where did she go?"

"She must have left when we were talking."

Akitsu informed, Saki kissed two of her fingers, and blew them towards Naoya and the others.

"Wish I could dance again, but I've got a Sekirei that needs to be slain~"

With that, Saki used her quick speed to dash away. Akitsu shot her hand forward, and allowed a number of icicles to shoot forward. But Saki used excellent speed to dodge each of the strikes, even Uzume's veil when going forward was dodged out of the way, showing the skills of Saki.

Naoya narrowed his brows.

"We have to go and find her. Uzume-san, I've been dreaming about her and..." Just before he could continue, he heard Homura groaning, and saw the pain etched onto Homura's face, along with the wild flames springing forth. "Uzume-san, Homura-san is..."

"Shit, Homura-chan..."

Naoya became concerned.

"What's happening Uzume-san? Homura-san's body did this when searching for Yashima-san also..."

"It's Homura-chan's body, it's-"

"Uzume..."

Homura silenced Uzume, to the confusion of Naoya.

Naoya looked at Uzume who respected Homura's wishes, and didn't say anything, something that pained her since she wanted to explain.

"...I don't get what's going on, but you're smoking, your fires causing your wounds. Can't we stop it somehow?"

Homura groaned in pain.

"...My body's...it's..."

Naoya looked back to Uzume.

"Something's happening right? I don't need to know the intimate details, but at least tell me what's going on."

"...Yeah, alright."

Uzume agreed to the panic of Homura.

"Uzume-"

"Homura-chan's power flares up sometimes, to a point that it becomes wild like this..." Uzume turned to Homura apologetically. "I'm sorry Homura-chan, but he's my Ashikabi, and he's concerned."

Homura understood.

Homura didn't want anyone to worry, nor want any sympathy either, knowing that there was no one who'd be able to wing the flame Sekirei, so there was no point sharing around any secrets that Homura had about anything to do with the flaming Sekirei.

"I see, then we have to do something..." Naoya looked around, and saw Akitsu walking closer. "Akitsu-san?"

"I...can freeze the flames, I shall put this Sekirei out."

Akitsu thrust her hands forward, shooting thin waves of ice that hugged Homura's form, the flames that were being released, were also frozen, Uzume using her veils to make sure that the frozen flames were brushed off of the flaming Sekirei.

Because of Akitsu's actions, Homura's body was saved from cremation, but because of the heat, and also feeling something deep inside...Homura's eyes went towards Naoya's concerned ones.

"T-Thanks..."

Naoya nodded, showcasing a light smile.

"I'm glad you're okay. But you're wounded..."

Naoya tried to reach out, but Homura pulled back, surprising the young boy.

"I'm fine, I need to go and find Kocho."

"Not in that condition you're not." Naoya quickly said, assessing Homura's injuries with his eyes. "You nearly went through something terrible, you need to take some time to rest. Remember, Mom also asked us to look after Sekirei, and I had a dream about her..."

"You...dreamed about Kocho?"

Naoya confirmed it with a nod of his head.

"Yes, that's right. For the past few days now, I've dreamed about her. So, allow us to look for her."

"That's kind of you but..."

Naoya saw Homura attempt to stand, but because of what happened, all energy left the flaming Sekirei, and ended up falling forward, so Naoya moved forward just in time for Homura to fall against his chest.

"Honestly, it's alright to ask for help. We'll help you, and Kocho-san both." He soothed to the fire Sekirei. "We need to find Kocho-san...but, we also need to take care of Homura-san..."

Uzume, seeing the conflicting eyes of Naoya, also thought about Homura.

Uzume could see that something was going on, and she wondered if it was Homura beginning to react to Naoya. If that was the case, and if Naoya could help Homura somehow...

Uzume placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Naoya-kun, you've got medical knowledge, you take care of Homura-chan with Akitsu-chan."

"Yeah, maybe you're right, Akitsu-san can put Homura-san out if the flames come back...but Kocho-san needs help. Uzume-san, can you and Yashima-san look for a little while? That Saki-san girl can't take the pair of you...when Homura-san's injuries are fixed, then I'll come and join you."

"Alright then~ Yashima-chan, ready?"

"Yes, I am ready."

"Then lets go!"

With that, they split up.

Naoya took care of Homura with Akitsu, while Uzume and Yashima went out to search for Kocho. Naoya also saw Homura's phone on the ground before they left, so took it to give it back when Homura finally woke up.

Kocho, who was hiding, looked at the injuries she had.

She wasn't an idiot, she knew that she couldn't take on MBI.

But, she didn't want to die either, even though it seemed as if she wasn't going to be able to win.

But she knew she couldn't involve anyone else.

That boy...

Naoya, seeing him, feeling the pulsations through her body, she was having a difficult time in thinking of anything other than that.

Kocho inhaled and exhaled several times, trying to calm the emotions building up inside of her.

She could feel the heat from Naoya's vision in her mind.

She saw him up close, he said he had dreamed about her.

It was clear in his eyes that he wasn't lying.

"No...I can't involve anyone else..."

She murmured, telling herself to make sure she believed her own thoughts.

She then grabbed her bag, and put some technology into it.

She knew that she wasn't going to win against MBI.

All she could do was keep running.

Run, until she was able to escape the city, otherwise she would be killed.

Meanwhile, as the morning continued, Naoya dressed Homura's wounds, and laid Homura on the bed. Naoya, now seeing Homura up close, could see more of Homura's figure, seeing the slender, and slightly curvy form.

Usually, it was hidden by the long cloak Homura wore.

"Naoya-sama, is this Sekirei going to be okay?"

Naoya shrugged.

"I've never treated a Sekirei with...whatever condition Homura-san has. But, it seems that it's easing and from asking my Mother, it seems Homura-san's going to be okay for the moment..." Naoya took a wet cloth, and brushed Homura's brow. "Still feels hot though."

"Allow me to summon more ice."

Akitsu used her ability to create small ice cubes, and put them in a towel, to place against Homura's body.

But when he did, Homura's eyes shot up, and tried to sit up.

"Hey, it's alright..." Naoya soothed, placing hands on Homura's shoulders. "You're going to be okay now."

Homura's eyes went towards Naoya's, before looking down at the dressed wounds.

"You...did this?"

"Yes, I made sure you were bandaged up, and wouldn't have to be worried. Uzume-san and Yashima-san are currently out looking for Kocho-san, but it's been little luck so far."

"Then I'll go and help the search."

Homura tried to get up, but Naoya could see the pain Homura was in.

"Wait. You can't go out, your body needs time to rest."

"It's my duty to protect all unwinged Sekirei, I don't get time off-"

"You do now." Naoya cut Homura off kindly. "You get the chance to rest now that we're here."

Akitsu nodded, and pointed at Homura.

"Stay, or I freeze."

Homura eyebrows furrowed while Akitsu remained stoic faced.

"Honestly...you're so difficult."

"Then, please lay back down Homura-san."

Homura looked on with an unsure gaze, but seeing that Akitsu was stood there with ice forming, Homura's head fell back onto the pillow.

"You're stubborn, like your Mother."

"Well, being stubborn is sometimes necessary for when things like this happen." Naoya responded, allowing a cloth to gently graze Homura's cheek. But Homura's face began to flush, and slapped his hand away, but it didn't deter him. "Sorry for startling you, I was just trying to wipe the sweat away..."

Homura hadn't realized what had happened before it did, and ended up giving an apologetic look.

"No, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to...it's just my body is...isn't exactly the most stable, you might not want to touch me. I might burn you by mistake."

Homura's body arched in pain.

Naoya took his phone, and messaged Uzume.

"Then if you're okay, I'm going to go and look for Kocho-san." His eyes turned to Akitsu. "Akitsu-san, can I ask you watch over Homura-san? Make sure that Homura-san doesn't get up and needs any kind of food or drinks, okay?"

"Yes, Naoya-sama. I shall keep No. 06 here."

Naoya thanked her, and put on his shoes.

"Then I'm going to go and meet Uzume-san. Don't worry Homura-san, we'll find Kocho-san, you just rest."

Homura looked on, and simply nodded.

Naoya went over to the kitchen, picking up a bag which Homura raised an eyebrow at.

"What's in the bag?"

"Just some stuff, in case we need it~"

Naoya then left, leaving the pair alone, with Akitsu making sure Homura was okay.

Eventually Naoya met up with Uzume and Yashima. Seeing the looks on their faces, it was clear neither had any success.

"No luck?"

"No, she's quite crafty, she's hiding pretty well."

Uzume replied, with Naoya wondering what they should do next.

"Hmmmm...Hopefully, we'll find a lead. She can't have gotten that far...but also, someone needs to go and be with Chiho-san. Just in case she needs anything."

Uzume was glad that even now, Naoya thought about Chiho, even though she wasn't his Sekirei.

Yashima raised her hand.

"I'll go and spend time with Chiho-san."

"You sure Yashima-san?"

Yashima nodded.

"Yes, Naoya-sama is determined to find this Sekirei, and Uzume-san is also strong. Akitsu-san is doing what she can with Homura-san, so I will go and make sure that Chiho-san is okay."

Uzume gave a thankful nod.

"Thanks Yashima-chan~ We'll drop you off, then continue the search, right Naoya-kun?"

"Yeah, we should be careful since Toyotama turned up around there last time."

Yashima nodded.

"Leave Chiho-san to me, please find Kocho-san."

Naoya nodded this time, and walked towards the hospital.

Getting there, Naoya bid farewell to Yashima, and lightly kissed her cheek, earning a shy blush that spread across her cheeks as she entered the hospital.

Then Uzume and Naoya continued on.

"Naoya-kun, you also said you dreamed about her huh?"

She replied, with Naoya nodding his head.

"Strange isn't it...?"

"Not necessarily. You've heard about bonds between Sekirei and Ashikabi, it seems that Kocho-chan formed one with you before you met her."

"But to appear in dreams...I didn't know that was possible."

Uzume nodded and explained.

"Honestly I was somewhat dubious about it myself. I've never seen it happen, but since you saw her, I guess that it makes sense that you can do that huh?"

"Yeah...now I know who she is...that she exists, and she's in trouble, it only makes me more determined to find her."

"Right, we'll find her together, Naoya-kun."

Naoya and Uzume continued searching for Kocho for a good while.

Going through the city as fast as they could, but they didn't come up with any leads.

They were basically looking for a needle in a haystack, and it wasn't going to work out for them.

But, as they were looking, after a few hours had gone by, Naoya's phone rang.

"Mom, have you got-"

[Naoya, you have to move immediately. Kocho is making her way to an exit of the city, a place where Minaka has set up guards...to be honest, he's set up guards at all exits of the city. If she continues, she's going to be found out. I'm trying my best to keep her off of the radars of MBI. But I'm having trouble. Please move quickly.]

"R-Right, send me where she is, and I'll go."

[Already have, check your phone.]

Naoya did as such, and got the location.

It seemed to be a small woodland area she was in, so Uzume shot off in that direction, hoping they'd be able to make it to the Sekirei in time.

Meanwhile, as time passed lunch, Benitsubasa was laying down on a couch in a penthouse looking area, and her mind couldn't help but keep flashing back to the time she spent with Naoya, what she knew about him, and how she could get into contact with him again.

She needed confirmation if she was or wasn't reacting to him.

Haihane, with a sly grin, leaned over her, her hair falling down past her shoulders.

"Benitsubasa, not thinking dirty thoughts are you?"

"You shut it Haihane!"

Haihane giggled lightly.

"By the way, did you pick up my takeaway like I asked?"

"I'm not your slave Haihane! If it matters that much to you, have it delivered!"

Haihane bent down, her finger circulating the ground below her.

"It costs extra for delivery though, and I'm not sure if they deliver at this time of day."

"For crying out loud!" Benitsubasa huffed, sitting up from the couch, Haihane noticing the slight tinge of red on her face. "What are you staring at me for?"

"Hmmmm...your face is unusually red, is there something you're not telling me?" Benitsubasa turned away from her, but Haihane shifted locations, perching on the arm rest to the right hand side of Benitsubasa. "Did you finally understand what a real bra is like and not a training bra?"

"I'll murder you one of these days!"

Haihane placed a hand on her stomach, and began laughing.

"Murder, did you say?"

A new voice made itself known.

Walking into the room, was a woman with grey hair, tied into a long ponytail. Wearing a black outfit that tight leather top, a mini skirt, and stockings, an over the shoulder grey haori, with a symbol on the back of it.

"Karasuba..."

"I have been hearing rumours Benitsubasa, is it true that you've found your Ashikabi?"

"...I might have, still that's not your business!"

"It is, if I have to find a new member of the Disciplinary Squad." Benitsubasa bit her lower lip. "Though I can't imagine why someone would choose to be with a human anyway. All of them, are lower than dirt."

"This one isn't!"

Benitsubasa argued.

"Oh? Is that so?"

"Yeah, he tried to help me, and cared about my well being!"

"Trust me, Benitsubasa. All humans are the same. But, tell me. What is this humans name?"

"I'm not telling you anything. Knowing you, you'd do something to him."

Karasuba raised her brows in amusement.

"Seems like you've got a bit braver to stand up to me like that." Benitsubasa tightened her hand while Haihane glanced between them. "Still, it's good to see you acting more mature. But remember what I said, if you decide to join this human, then you'll be off the Squad, and I'll have to find a new recruit."

Benitsubasa scowled, as Haihane placed a hand on top of her head.

"Maybe you'd be happy to be with him over the Disciplinary Squad." Haihane saw Karasuba simply giving off a cold smile. "A-Also Karasuba-sama. I have to ask, you've been out lately."

"Yeah, found an Ashikabi of your own?!"

Benitsubasa added with her anger shining through.

"My business, is all." As she said it, Natsuo came through the door. "Oh, it's Natsuo. What do you want?"

"Hello to you as well Karasuba." Natsuo greeted politely. "It seems that MBI have a runaway, No. 22 could expose secrets of MBI. Saki is also out right now trying to find the woman. But, Minaka also asked if you would also go out to search for her."

"Great, just what I need. I was about to call my potential Ashikabi Natsuo!"

"It seems that you might have to postpone that for today."

Benitsubasa scowled, and folded her arms.

"Fine, but I'm not pleased with you."

Karasuba waved her sword.

"I'll pass."

Natsuo raised an eyebrow.

"Why is that?"

"Because I'm currently busy, if I have time and if I see her, I'll slice her apart."

Karasuba brushed past Natsuo, and walked away.

Benitsubasa placed her hands on her hips.

"Damn it, she always leaves us with the work."

"We should just do it so we can get back to your Ashikabi love Benitsubasa."

"Yeah, yeah. I know Haihane."

Natsuo raised his head.

"Great, then follow me."

With that, Benitsubasa and Haihane left with Natsuo.

As that happened, Naoya and Uzume finally had a lead, and were pursuing it. Together, Uzume used her veils to zip through the skies. Grabbing onto different edges of buildings, and other objects high in the air, she could swing fast, and quick.

Making it to the place that she was, Uzume jumped into the small woodland area that overlooked a bridge to the exit of the city. Naoya could see that there were a number of guards around, MBI guards at that.

Most likely, they were looking for Kocho herself.

Naoya's eyes scanned the area, looking for Kocho.

"Kocho-san..."

Naoya wanted to help her.

He wasn't sure how he would yet, but he knew that if she tried to take on MBI, it wouldn't work out well for her.

Uzume jumped up into the trees, and looked left and right, her eyes trying to catch Kocho.

Naoya's eyes were drifting left and right, trying to find Kocho…

But then he saw numbers and letters floating within the air.

"Ooh God, I'm not dreaming again am I…?"

He pinched himself, but he didn't 'wake up' so he had to be awake.

They were going north west, Naoya wondered if he'd find Kocho over there.

He took off running at high speeds.

Uzume also saw him running and yelled "Hey Naoya-kun!" and gave chase to make sure that he was okay.

Naoya ran for a few minutes, and eventually, following the numbers and letters, he saw Kocho with her hand on the ground, trying to catch her breath, so he ran over to her, but when she noticed him, Kocho pulled away.

"Stay back."

"Kocoh-san, wait. Please."

"You can't stop me."

Naoya raised his eyebrows.

"I don't understand what you're trying to do."

"Please don't interfere, I need to make my escape."

Naoya looked mildly surprised, but then worried.

"If it's MBI, then we can help you..."

"...I don't have a place in this city anymore. Why do you care?"

She countered, but Naoya didn't hesitate in his answers.

"Because I don't want you to go off to your death, that's why!"

Kocho gasped at the emotion in his voice.

Uzume looked on as Kocho's hands placed themselves together in front of her, as if she was fiddling with her fingers.

She felt her cheeks slightly reddening while pulling backwards.

"...You only dreamed about me, correct?"

"So what? I still can see you're in some kind of trouble. Please, let me help you Kocho-san."

"I can't be helped, MBI is going to come after me, for what I did."

"For breaking into MBI's private information, right?"

Kocho nods slowly.

"...Yes, that's right."

"Why were you doing that?"

Kocho paused.

She didn't know if she could reveal the truth about it.

"Minaka...he's only interested in using Sekirei for his own sick games. He doesn't seem to grasp the concept of emotions that we feel, treating us as tools for him to have fun with. We're his toys."

Naoya could hear the sadness in her voice.

It was clear that she felt deeply about this.

"Yes...Minaka is a person that can be awful...but Kocho-san, you have to understand, that this isn't right...no, rather. It isn't safe for you to do this. I understand your emotions about Minaka and how he treats Sekirei, it's crappy. But if you try to run...you'll only end up being someone that's a Pawn in Minaka's game. Kocho-san...tell me, why did you...try and get information from MBI?"

Kocho's eyes narrowed angrily.

She remembered how it first happened.

That day, when she was being cornered, being forced to do stuff against her will.

"...I was...being coerced to do it."

"Coerced...someone forced you to get information?"

Kocho nodded.

"Yes, someone had asked me to get information for her... I was being forced to steal it. The Sekirei in question...threatened me. If I didn't do it, then I'd be executed by her. It was a lose lose situation. I didn't know what to do. In the end...there was nothing for me but to deceive her long enough for me to make an escape. If I could do that, then she couldn't get her hands on the information."

Naoya didn't like the sound of it at all.

How she was being forced to do these things.

He just couldn't accept it.

"Who tried to force you to steal it?"

"I've already told you enough. If you get more involved, then you're going to be brought into the middle of it...you'll be on MBI's hit list also. Please, leave before MBI's Disciplinary Squad arrive! They'll execute you also!"

He could see the concern in her eyes.

She clearly didn't want to do anything like this.

She wasn't someone that was malicious.

She was simply trying to live.

"...You have a right to live, the Disciplinary Squad don't have the right to take that away from you. We'll protect you, right Uzume-san?"

Uzume nodded without hesitation.

"Right, you don't have to be afraid Kocho-chan, we'll take care of you."

Kocho wanted to believe it.

She desperately wished that she could do it.

"...I can't, the Disciplinary Squad is going to keep coming after me. I defied her...No. 04, she wont stop until I'm dead."

"No. 04...she's the one that asked you?"

Kocho confirmed what Uzume said with a nod of her head.

"Right, she did just that. So, if you'll excuse me..."

Naoya could see it would be futile.

Kocho wouldn't get far on her own.

Not with MBI's most dangerous Sekirei coming for her.

Naoya pulled closer to the brain type, and extended his hand towards her.

"Please...we'll protect you, make sure that you can continue to live. Even if its MBI, this isn't your fault...being forced to do something against your will, if we explain it, even that damn Minaka has to understand that this isn't your fault!"

Kocho looked surprised.

Uzume smiled at her Ashikabi.

But that was replaced with shock when she saw a shadow beside Naoya moving in closer.

She immediately sprung into action, allowing her veil to wrap around Naoya's form, as a sword came shooting out. The veil managed to block off the sword, and appearing, was Saki herself, who twirled her blade around dangerously.

"Ooh man! Come on! That was perfect as well! You saw me?"

"That's right, work on your hiding skills."

"And I pride myself on my hiding skills also. What a shame." Saki pulled away from Naoya, and turned her blade to Uzume. "Hello sweetie, it seems that the time for a fight has finally come between us. Two adversaries in the prime of life."

"Erm...I don't know what you're actually talking about. But, I'm No. 10, Uzume."

"And I'm No. 55, Saki~" Saki pulls out her phone, and presses the send button. "My friends shall be here soon~"

Uzume didn't care, and she shot off at Saki with her veils swirling in the air. They formed a dome around Saki, who watched on as Uzume brought one of the veils from up above to slam down towards her like a battering ram.

Saki dodges out of the way expertly, and thrusts her body for Uzume in a short burst of pure speed.

Getting to Uzume, she swings her sword for Uzume's neck, Naoya takes out his phone, alerting his other Sekirei to what was going on, and requesting assistance, as he pulled back towards Kocho.

Kocho looked astonished to see Uzume tackling someone like Saki, who was hand picked to be a guard for Teito tower, and possible candidate for the Disciplinary Squad, and they seemed to be fighting rather on fair ground.

Uzume then jumped in the air, and formed her cloth into a spear, lunging down right for Saki.

Saki herself brought up her sword, and used it as a shield, the two weapons collided and caused a violent air pressure to sweep through the area. Naoya and Kocho were both brought off the ground, as the two Sekirei struggled.

"You're not bad No. 55."

"You too~"

Uzume and Saki continued their struggle as Naoya jumps off the floor, and extends his hand to Kocho.

Kocho looked at the hand, and wasn't sure what to do.

She was glad for the help.

But she didn't want people to suffer because of her.

She pushed Naoya's hand away, and began running away.

"Kocho-san wait!"

"Naoya-kun! Go after her!"

"But Uzume-san..."

Uzume pushes Saki away, and thrusts a cloth for her torso to bind her.

Saki uses the trees to jump rapidly away, getting high into said trees, and cut down a few branches, launching them for Uzume.

"I'll handle this one! If she goes off on her own, she might end up being killed!"

Naoya knew that she could be right.

He didn't want to leave Uzume alone.

But he also had to think about Kocho.

He trusted in Uzume, and that she'd be able to make it out of the situation she was in alive.

"Uzume-san! Be safe! Okay?!"

Uzume lightly blushed, avoiding the branches launched at her, before she used her veils to grab them, and throw them right back towards Saki, the sword wielder had shot down for Uzume in a straight up again.

"You got it my cute Ashikabi-kun, leave it to me!"

Naoya nodded.

Though he didn't like it, he turned, and ran after Kocho.

Uzume then turned to Saki who sliced down the branches, but Uzume used her veil to grab her foot, and slam her down into the ground, creating a sizeable crack in the earth from the heavy slamming that she did.

Saki groaned at the attack, seeing Kocho getting further and further away.

"So not cool! Natsuo-kun! Where's backup?!"

Uzume looked around the area they were in, and couldn't see this Natsuo that Saki was talking about.

She then saw that Saki was on her phone attached to her hip, and heard a voice reply [They're coming now.] to which Saki grinned at.

"Great, then I have to get going because Kocho-chan is on the move. Can you track her?"

[I am as we speak.]

Uzume was worried about Naoya.

If this Natsuo was tracking her.

Then they'd track Naoya too.

Uzume knew she'd have to end this quickly, so she shot off towards Saki. Saki giggled awkwardly as Uzume allowed her veils to scrunch up together, and turn into two spears around her arms.

"Try these double spears!"

Saki grimaced as she got in close.

But then Haihane jumped down and slashes her claws for Uzume's cloth spears, clashing together and then Uzume pulled back, seeing Haihane and Saki standing together. She looked between them, knowing that this would be more difficult.

"Saki, why don't you go? I'll handle this one."

"You sure Mummy?"

"Don't call me Mummy, and just go!"

Saki stuck out her tongue, and dashed off.

"No you don't!"

Uzume tried to attack with her cloth, but Haihane shot forward like a bullet, using her clothes and slashed towards Uzume.

Uzume grimaced, and apologized mentally to Naoya as he would have to handle things until she managed to get by Haihane, who used her cloth to block off Haihane's claws, then caused the cloth to begin spinning to wrap up Haihane's claws.

Haihane grinned, and used her claws to shred through her cloth, forcing Uzume to pull her cloth back towards her.

"Fine, it seems that I'll have to fight you to get to my Ashikabi!"

"Good luck with that."

With that, Uzume and Haihane began having a fight with one another.

Meanwhile, Naoya ran as fast as he could to catch up to Kocho.

Though she was a Sekirei, he was able to run and catch up with her eventually.

Getting to her side, he placed a hand on her shoulder, but she stopped him from getting too close.

"Kocho-san..."

"No...please just leave. I can't...I can't be responsible for you being hurt or worse."

Naoya could hear the sadness, the desire to want to keep others at arms length.

"Kocho-san...you said in my dreams, that I should prove to you that I can be an Ashikabi. Let me try that now, let me become someone that you can be proud of. Don't run, you don't have to be alone anymore."

Kocho felt a pulse from her chest.

Her fingers ran themselves across her large chest, and could feel heat beginning to form on her cheeks.

"...I don't want anyone to get hurt, because of me."

"I know...that's why you're a kind Sekirei."

Kocho was surprised to be described as that, she hadn't ever been called that before.

"Kind…"

As she spoke,Naoya saw Saki moving closer.

Naoya looked annoyed, while Kocho looked down with a sad gaze.

"Come on now Kocho-chan. Look what you're doing, putting others in danger."

Kocho hated to admit that Saki was right.

But Naoya wouldn't stand for it.

"I wont let you hurt her!"

Kocho's head lifted to meet Naoya's frame, seeing his hand clutched.

Though he was a human and couldn't fight a Sekirei, it seemed as if he still was planning to do so.

"Why are you here? She's not your Sekirei, so why bother?"

"Because she didn't do it because she wanted too!"

"But, she still did it, so we can't let her get away with it."

Naoya couldn't understand why they'd end up doing something like that.

Saki pulled out her sword, as Naoya fished into his pocket.

Pulling out pepper spray, he shot it for Saki's eyes, and blinded her.

"Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah! My eyes! What have you done?!"

Saki clutches at her eyes, as Naoya shoulder barges her, knocking her down to the ground.

Naoya then grabbed Kocho's hand, and ran off with her as fast as they could go.

Natsuo pulled up in his car half a minute later, and walked towards Saki.

"It seems that you were caught in surprise."

Saki rubbed her eyes, which were turning red.

"Owwww...yeah, it wasn't great..."

"Do not worry, Benitsubasa is on her way, she'll help you."

"Yeah...that's good..."

Saki groaned as Natsuo handed her a napkin, allowing her to wipe her eyes.

"It seems that this human is rather intriguing. I can see why President Minaka warned us about this boy."

"Yeah, no kidding. I've never met an Ashikabi willing to fight like that." Saki murmured, batting her eyes several times. "Still, should we go after him Natsuo-kun?"

"Yes, that is our mission after all."

Saki nodded, and began moving forward, as did Natsuo himself.

Uzume and Haihane were clashing with one another. Haihane's speed was great, her claws were fast moving, but Uzume also was skilled, and used her veils to block an attempted slash from Haihane.

"Whats your number and name again?"

Haiahane asked, as Uzume jumps up, allowing her veils to shoot towards Haihane in a spear shape, forcing Haihane to jump away as they pierced the ground.

"No. 10, Uzume. You?"

"No. 104, Haihane."

Haihane replied, swiftly shooting for Uzume who landed on the ground. Getting in close, Haihane attempted to slash right, but Uzume blocked, only for Haihane to move around her at high speed.

Getting to her back, Haihane lifted her claws, only for Uzume to block with a few of her veils, but Haihane's claws slice right through them as if they weren't a bother.

"I can see why you're in the Disciplinary Squad, you're definitely fast."

Haihane jumped back as Uzume's veils attempted to wrap around her.

Landing on the ground, Haihane was stunned to see that Uzume was already on her, with her veil wrapped around her arm, slamming it towards the surprised Haihane, who used her wired claws to block the impact.

Haihane was surprised when she felt the attack transmit through her body, Uzume hit surprisingly hard, stunning Haihane long enough for Uzume to wrap a veil around Haihane's leg, bringing it up quickly, and launched her over her body.

Just before slamming down into the ground, Haihane narrowly freed herself, but she kept going to the ground, hitting it hard enough to dent the ground.

"Aah, damn it..."

"Sorry, but I have to get to my Naoya-kun!"

That name, Haihane recognized.

"Wait, did you say Naoya?"

Uzume paused, looking at the gothic Sekirei.

"That's right, he's my Ashikabi."

"Hmmmm...about this tall..." Haihane showed with her hands. "...a cute yet handsome face, and scar on one side?"

"That's right...why're you asking?"

Haihane got off the ground, placing a hand up with a smile.

"No way, it is him~"

Uzume looked astonished.

"You...know him?"

Haihane nodded.

"Right, he's given me a lot of comedy lately with Benitsubasa."

"Benitsubasa...right, he did mention her..."

Haihane places her hands behind her head, and whistles.

"You can go."

Uzume gave a curious look.

Haihane...wasn't going to stand in her way?

"That's it? Really?"

Haihane shrugs.

"If I had known you were with Naoya, then I wouldn't have attacked you. Hehe, that boys given me so many great moments lately~ I feel like we're already friends~ Plus, if his sister comes back...damn yeah, make sure she answers his phone when Benitsubasa calls~ Oh, by the way, Benitsubasa most likely is reacting to your Ashikabi."

"Oh...that's interesting~"

Uzume sang out, not sure what to do with the information.

"I think so anyway."

"Eh...maybe I shouldn't ask...but this is a Disciplinary Squad thing, right? So, is it okay to just let me go?"

"You're Naoya's Sekirei, I tend to think he's got a pretty smart outlook on situations, from what I've seen and read, so if he's involved, then it has to be for a good reason. We were supposed to track down No. 22...but, you can have her. Besides, I wasn't really into it anyway, I'd much prefer to be watching my anime."

Uzume was surprised by how easy going Haihane was.

"Then...thanks I guess~ If you'll excuse me..." As she was going to leave, she could see that Akitsu was coming in close, and Yashima was also. "Great, I'll wait for them, then go together."

Haihane looked towards them, then grinned.

"They're all bigger chested than Benitsubasa...poor girl, she's going to have competition."

Uzume gave a bemused look to Haihane, finding someone rather...interesting, something she didn't expect.

Now she hoped Naoya would be safe until they arrived.

Back with Naoya, he and Kocho continued running from the area. Naoya also noticed that there seemed to be a lack of people around. He wondered if MBI had set that up somehow, or it was just incredible timing.

Naoya then ran around a corner, and continued practically dragging Kocho behind him.

"This is futile, we can't outrun her."

"Maybe not, but we can out think her, can't we?"

Kocho became intrigued.

Naoya seemed to be looking for something as far as she could tell.

When he found it, he dragged Kocho towards it…

It was an abandoned building.

Confusion came over her, as they entered it.

As they did, Benitsubasa had managed to find them, and look on curiously.

She knew that Kocho was the enemy, but that was Naoya...her potential Ashikabi. She pondered if she should go and help or watch Naoya and see what he was going to do.

Karasuba was also watching, she became even more intrigued when seeing Naoya and Kocho together.

Naoya himself saw Kocho becoming more confused as they rushed up the first set of stairs.

"What are you intending to do?"

"I'm intending to set a trap for that Sekirei girl."

"But, how are you going to do that?"

Naoya furrowed his brows.

"Tell me, what is your power exactly? My Mom explained that you have some power over technology, is that right? She didn't really explain the finer details though."

Kocho nodded and explained.

"In a manner of speaking. I can access and analyse technology, but I don't have the power to fully control them."

"So, you can like see into technology, spy on it."

"Essentially yes, why?"

"Can you do that with phones? Like say they have GPS, you'd be able to tell where they are with your power?"

Kocho furrowed her brows as they continued going up the stairs, climbing several levels, and kept looking into different rooms. But each time they did, Naoya seemed to not like the room, for whatever he was planning to do, so they kept going.

"I suppose that I could. But what would that do?"

"It would give me time to set the trap and tell me where and when she's going to come in."

Kocho had to admit that he seemed to think rather fast.

She did as he asked though, more intrigue coming over her, and allowed her power to shine. Accessing her phone, she could see that she was running across the streets in her mind, measuring the distance away.

"She's not far behind us. But even then...I don't understand your plan."

Naoya smiled, as they continued running until they made it to a new room.

It was near the top, and it was full of pillars, a few big windows with missing pieces of glass, some shattered. He also saw some bricks laying on the ground. Parts of them broken, and some of them intact.

"In here, and I'll explain."

Naoya pulled Kocho along into the room of pillars, and rushed towards the end of it.

Then hiding behind a pillar, Naoya pulled out the contents of his bag, and dropped them onto the ground.

She then watched as he pulled some different types of containers together, she wondered what he was doing.

"Are you intending to create some kind of explosive?"

"In a manner of speaking." He began as he directed his hand to the bag. "Would you mind filling my bag with those bricks?"

"I...suppose."

Kocho still intrigued did as asked, and began taking some bricks, filling them into the bag as Naoya continued.

"What I'm hoping for is if she comes to find us, we can get the drop on her. I knew that I couldn't fight a Sekirei hand to hand or whatever, but using tricks and my mind to come up with ways to defend myself. That's why, I've been working on developing certain stuff to help me out, like that pepper spray you saw, and now, I'm hoping to make a pepper spray bomb that would allow us blind her long enough for me to use that brick bag to knock her down. I doubt it would terminate her, but it could give us the edge we'd need to get out of here...speaking of, I'll alert my Sekirei to where we are."

Naoya did that quickly on his phone.

Then he continued making the pepper spray bomb of his.

Kocho was surprised.

She hadn't seen an Ashikabi willing to go this far before.

They usually seemed to just stand in the back, and allow their Sekirei to fight.

But Naoya wanted to try and defend her.

To lend assistance, while also understanding his own human limitations as well.

Kocho couldn't help but think this is what she wanted out of an Ashikabi.

Someone that would be there, and fight and make real changes, challenge people even the likes of MBI which she thought should be impossible for someone like Naoya, or any kind of Ashikabi.

But here he was, trying his hardest, standing there in the face of danger, and willing to take it head on.

Seeing that he was willing to fight, and he had no powers, she felt the courage and drive to continue on also.

"Give me your number."

"Eh? Why?"

Naoya asked, Kocho explained.

"Because, I'd like to play my own part in this. I have an idea to assist your idea. Saki is going to be looking for us, if we can lure her to the windows, then we could drop the bomb, blind her, and knock her out of the window."

"That's a great idea. Here, my number."

Naoya showed his phone to her as he finished the bomb, and moved to putting bricks in his back for that extra damage. He made it so he could actually move, and attack, without being able to actually use the weapon.

He tested it several times, and came to the best weight for him to use it at while also giving a good deal of damage.

Kocho also finished setting up the numbers, and gave his phone back.

"Now, we can call that when she comes in here...I'll go and set it up."

Naoya quickly took his phone to the window, placing it in a place that was out of vision so Saki wouldn't see the lie straight away.

But as he was, Kocho could tell via her power that Saki was coming in closer and closer.

"She's nearly here..."

Kocho whispered, Naoya nodded, and placed the phone down, and made his way back.

As he got near Kocho, Saki's head peered around the corner, so he hid two pillars away from Kocho.

Kocho herself leaned against the pillar, and didn't make a noise.

Saki began entering the room, and like a true assassin, she hardly made any noise.

If it wasn't for Kocho alerting him, he was sure that he wouldn't be able to tell she was nearby.

Like a snake silently moving, she weaved between the pillars.

Her eyes stayed focused on what she desired.

Continuing through the room, she shot behind one pillar, and stuck out her blade, piercing another pillar.

Naoya began to sweat, hearing how her sword ripped through the concrete so easily.

Kocho also began to sweat.

Benitsubasa tightened her hand, and began moving...when she saw the look on Naoya's face.

Despite being in danger, he still remained calm.

That caused her to blush and murmur "Any guy that can still remain calm like that definitely is a good guy indeed. Something I want out of an Ashikabi as well...go on Naoya, show me your cool side." as she believed that her Ashikabi should be someone tough, and right now, Naoya displayed that in spades.

Kocho inched slightly, but accidentally made a bit of noise by brushing the bag of Naoya's.

Naoya grimaced as Saki grinned.

"So, is that a rat? Or, is that my target I wonder?"

Naoya could hear her words truly being cold, and saw Saki moving towards Kocho's location.

Worry came over him, so he quietly moved behind Saki and shoulder barged her in the back, just enough to hit her into a nearby pillar.

"Ah..."

Though she only fell against it, Saki was surprised, and turned her eyes back around…

But Naoya had disappeared.

"Good shot boy. But it wont save you."

Saki knew he had to be close, so she moved from Kocho and redoubled her efforts to find Naoya.

Kocho used this chance to ring Naoya's phone, with the ringtone immediately surrounding the area.

"Shit...not my phone..."

Naoya whispered, trying to trick Saki into going.

Saki snickered, and then giggled sweetly.

"You've been betrayed by your phone!"

Saki used her ninja like speed to cross the distance within moments, and cut down the pillar she thought he was behind…

But saw that he wasn't there.

"Eh...but, this is where the sounds..." As she spoke, Naoya was tossed the bomb by Kocho, Naoya activated it, tossing it at Saki, erupting in a mass cloud of pepper spray. "Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah! N-Nooooooooooo! My eyes! Not again! Natsuo-kun!"

Naoya used this chance to grab his brick filled bag, seeing her position at the window, and rushed her.

Using his sleeve to try and shield his eyes the best he could, he managed to get in close, and then swung with his bag, with everything he had, hitting her in the back, and because she was distracted, she received the brick filled bag to her body, knocking her off balance, enough for Naoya to shoulder barge her out of the window.

Naoya looked out of it, his eyes stinging while Saki fell down to the ground.

"That's it Naoya, kick that bitches ass! That's my future Ashikabi for you!"

Benitsubasa mentally cheered for Naoya's progression.

"So, Naoya and Kocho together...haha, this might turn out better than expected. Maybe I could use this...I'll get that information one way or another, I can't draw attention to myself, and even if she spills her guts, I'll deny it, Minaka wont get rid of me...maybe this will work out better than I expected. Naoya...and Kocho, together...very interesting."

Karasuba thought, looking intrigued by what had happened.

Saki, the last moment she was going to land on said ground, pierced the building with her sword, stopping her from hitting the ground.

Naoya also noticed Natsuo stood outside, with his eyes looking up at Naoya.

It was a rather...emotionless stare.

"Geez, this just isn't my day Natsuo-kun!"

Saki complained, jumping down to the ground.

Saki's eyes then shot up to Naoya, who looked down without fear, something that impressed Benitsubasa.

Kocho joined Naoya, and looked down.

"No. 22, you're being more difficult than I first thought you'd be."

"She's not going with you, and you're not terminating her either!"

Naoya snapped at Natsuo who wore surprise on his face.

"Is that so?"

"It is yes."

"And how are you going to stop us?"

Saki looked slightly worried about that.

She didn't want to be pepper sprayed again.

Naoya was ready to answer, when Akitsu, Yashima and Uzume all came shooting onto the scene. Haihane wasn't far behind, and looked on rather casually.

"Uzume-san...everyone. You're okay."

Naoya was relieved to see his three Sekirei were in good condition.

"Yeah, sorry for being late Naoya-kun, we're here now."

Natsuo looked between the three Sekirei that had arrived, and Saki.

Also looking to Haihane, seeing how she had been injured also.

It didn't look favourable to them at all.

He looked back to Kocho, who looked back down without backing down.

"It seems you've got intriguing friends. But we will come back for you."

"Yeah, try it and we'll be there to stop you!"

Naoya yelled at Natsuo who was taken aback.

But then he smiled.

"If that's what you want. Next time, boy. Saki, Haihane, lets go."

"Haihane..."

Naoya looked towards the side of Uzume, seeing Haihane giving an apologetic look towards Naoya, before taking off with Saki and Natsuo.

Naoya looked on, as they left together, then shook his head, and went down to meet the others.

As soon as he did, he was hugged by all three of the girls, who he hugged right back.

"Hey, it's alright~ I'm okay~"

Kocho looked on, unsure of what to make of it.

But remembering back to what had just happened, she could feel a deep desire burning inside.

The fact that he risked himself so much for her…

How he came up with plans.

How he fought.

How he came to defend her…

It was exactly what she thought an Ashikabi should be.

She could feel it, the intense reaction spreading through her body.

Naoya turned to Kocho, and offered his hand towards her.

"Do you want to come home, with me? It's dangerous out here...I don't want you to be alone."

Those words drew Kocho even closer.

His compassion, his intellect, his ability to stare danger in the face, and still think rationally.

It was exactly what she had wanted.

"Yes...I'd like to go home with you."

She gave a small nod, taking his hand and felt the pulsating only growing stronger.

Upon arriving back at the apartment, Naoya and the others all stretched.

It had been quite a long day for each of them, and they all wanted to relax.

Naoya had been informed that Homura had been taken by Takami to make sure that nothing else was wrong, and assured Naoya that Homura would be alright.

But for Kocho, she found it difficult to do so, due to the burning feelings inside of her.

Uzume also noticed it, so she took Akitsu and Yashima with her towards the bathroom.

"Come on, lets give them some privacy~"

Akitsu and Yashima blinked, as they were dragged into the bathroom.

Naoya raised a brow, before turning to Kocho.

"I know it's not that big...but, this is my home...this is the home I've made with my Sekirei. Might need to relocate soon enough though-"

"May I ask you something?"

Naoya paused, but then nodded.

"Of course, what is it?"

"I didn't even catch your name."

"Ooh, my name is Naoya Sahashi, sorry about that Kocho-san."

Kocho shook her head, going towards the bed.

She then turned to Naoya, a small blush on her cheeks.

Naoya thought she looked rather cute when she looked at him like that.

A mixture of her no nonsense attitude, yet had hints of a maidens passionate emotions.

"Come, sit down next to me."

Naoya did just that.

Once next to her, her eyes went towards his face.

"You've done something dangerous, making enemies out of MBI."

Naoya could understand the feelings of Kocho, how worried she was by MBI.

"I already told my Mother..." Kocho raised a brow. "...ooh, she's apart of MBI. But don't worry, I have no affiliation with them, apart from my Mother, and even she doesn't like Minaka so you can trust us. My Mother said she'd tell Minaka what happened and while Minaka's an ass, he must at least understand that this isn't your fault, and hopefully leave you alone."

"I hope...otherwise, I'll be hunted still."

Naoya placed a hand on top of her head, Kocho paused as she blushed lightly.

"We'll stand by you, Kocho-san."

Kocho could feel the heat swarming her.

It felt like it was filling her up, and threatening to drown her whole.

"I...I don't doubt it. I'm sorry for causing all these...problems, I didn't mean to have others become involved..."

"Sometimes, situation can't be handled alone. Sometimes, you need others to help you."

Kocho had to admit that he was rather wise with his words despite his age.

She could tell that he was a teenager, and yet…

So full of wisdom, strength and heart.

Kocho leaned closer to Naoya, as he did towards her.

"Naoya-san...tell me something. What are your goals?"

"My goal is to free all Sekirei."

Kocho again was astonished that he had said that.

"That's quite the goal."

"Indeed it is, and while it might be difficult to accomplish, as I keep seeing more and more Sekirei being hurt, threatened, or anything like that...I am only more driven to keep going, and make sure that we're able to free you Sekirei."

Kocho placed a hand on her breast, feeling the heat taking her over.

But she wanted her mind to be clear.

"Naoya-san...allow me one more question..."

"Yes?"

Kocho slowly breathed out of her mouth, attempting to catch her breath.

"...Could you use a Sekirei, such as myself?"

"Use you...I'd never use you." Kocho looked bewildered as Naoya held onto her hand tightly. "I'd work with you. Sekirei's aren't my servants...they're my partners, Kocho-san. I want to work together with my Sekirei, and together...win this game, and change the fate of all Sekirei's, give them a chance to truly fall in love, and for them to be saved from their fates if they are in ones that aren't great for them. To give Sekirei, the choice of what and who they truly want."

That was all Kocho needed.

She placed her hand onto the side of Naoya's cheek.

Her slender hand gently grazed his face.

Her eyes filled to the brim with desire, and lust.

Her face though allowed a small smile to appear.

"I always wanted an Ashikabi that could meet my expectations, one that was driven...but, from what I saw today, you surpassed my expectations. I want to become your partner, Naoya-san. Please, accept me..."

"Yes, Kocho-san..."

Kocho moved closer with her tender looking lips. Her hazy eyes locked onto Naoya's own eyes.

She could feel it.

The trust and support he was giving her.

When they finally locked lips, Kocho's mind was blown.

Feeling the softness of his lips, yet how manly they were at the same time. His hand locked together with her own, his fingers giving comfort. Her body could feel the heat no longer trying to take over, and instead was replaced with serenity.

She knew that this was right, and now she was convinced she did the right thing.

Naoya himself felt good from her lips. Each girl he kissed had a different taste to them. Uzume's, Yashima's, and now Kocho's lips were all different, but each filled just as amazing as the others that had them.

As they kissed, wings made of grey, came shooting out of her Sekirei symbol. These wings looked as if they were made out of digital code almost, Naoya presumed it was because she was a brain type Sekirei. Their appearance also reminded Naoya of the dream he was in with Kocho each time they had met one another there.

They spread far, and wide, flapping within the air, as they continued to kiss one another. The light of the wings lit up the room, Naoya also saw that the electrical devices around flickered, possibly due to her Sekirei ability.

When the wings went back into her symbol, Kocho was reluctant to pull away, so she didn't and continued kissing Naoya as a blush worked its way onto her cheeks, she seemed to quite like the feeling of Naoya's lips.

Half a minute later, Naoya and Kocho mutually pulled away, with Kocho placing her hands on top of Naoya's own.

"Sekirei No. 22, Kocho, at your service...rather, I will lend all my knowledge to my Ashikabi, and support you in any desire, and goal that you have. Thank you...for accepting me Naoya-san."

Naoya scratched his cheek, shaking his head side to side.

"That's okay...lets do our best, Kocho-san. Together, lets make real changes."

Naoya recalled that from his dreams, that's what Kocho wished for.

She was content with that, and ended up hugging Naoya as a result.

As she did, Uzume and the others came out of the bathroom, with Uzume shining brightly with her smile.

"Naoya-kun, it seems that you've got another harem member locked in!"

"Uzume-san..."

Kocho raised a brow as Yashima moved closer.

"Naoya-sama, even though you winged Kocho-san...I still will continue to do my best to be the best girlfriend I can be!"

"Aah, that's great, thanks Yashima-san-"

"Naoya-sama." Akitsu interrupted. "I...also will be the best kind of girlfriend to you as well."

"Akitsu-san, that's really sweet-"

"S-So, I also have to fight other Sekirei for my Ashikabi's love...very intriguing..."

Kocho got into thought, as Naoya placed a hand up.

"No, Kocho-san, you don't have to fight at all. I'll love all of you."

Uzume giggled, leaning on Kocho's shoulder.

"He's right, Naoya-kun's gonna love all of us~ Maybe even at the same time~"

Kocho blushed, Naoya on the other hand gave a light hearted smile, seeing the different Sekirei around him.

Uzume, Akitsu, Yashima, and Kocho.

Each of them were very beautiful, each of them he cared about very much.

He didn't know what was coming next, but he was glad that he could stand beside his Sekirei.

Karasuba sat down within her own private room, thinking about the days events.

When there was a knock at the door, she chose to ignore it.

But it opened regardless, and revealed Takami.

"I received a report, about what happened with No. 22, and the circumstances behind her breaking into MBI's secret database."

"Oh, is that so?"

"Care to explain what your involvement is?"

Karasuba's eyes met with Takami's, who remained unflinching.

"I have no idea what you're talking about. Is that No. 22 spreading lies about me?"

Karasuba feigned innocence, but Takami knew better.

"She said you forced her to do it, looking for something specific. Care to share?"

"Again, no idea what she's talking about."

Takami raised an eyebrow.

"Playing innocent?"

"No, just curious of what I could possibly want from MBI."

"I can think of a few things. Perhaps it's to do with No. 01, or is it No. 08? Or maybe..."

"Maybe, you should keep your theories to yourself."

Takami could feel the tone Karasuba used.

It was very threatening.

But Takami wouldn't back down.

"If that's the case, then I guess for now, No. 22's actions wont go any further, as long as she remembers the rules. She's been punished enough, don't you think?"

"I suppose. Has she found her Ashikabi? Is it your son?" Takami didn't answer, causing Karasuba to laugh. "That's nice, true love at its finest...love, who needs that? Now if you wouldn't mind, I'd like to sleep."

Takami didn't have a doubt in her mind that Kocho was more than likely telling the truth.

But Karasuba was hard to discern, they didn't have any evidence other than Kocho's word, and Karasuba was a valuable asset to MBI, so she knew Minaka most likely wouldn't get rid of her, still wondered what Minaka would do in regards of her now.

Takami turned around, and walked away from the area, leaving Karasuba alone with her thoughts.

End chapter!

So Kocho's been winged! Naoya finally was able to meet Kocho, and after some convincing, Kocho finally allowed people to help her out. Together, Kocho and Naoya managed to knock down Saki, and while not beating her long, it allowed Naoya's other Sekirei to come in and back them up. Karasuba seems to be leaving them alone...for the moment anyway. Benitsubasa also watched Naoya staying calm in the face of danger, which is something she seemed to quite like. And at the end, it seems that while it seems that Takami does accept Karasuba tried to steal some information, she's not entirely sure what for yet, and is gonna keep an eye on her.

Anyway, thanks for the votes! Through the PM's and reviews, it seems split on the lightning twins, while Taki seems pretty positive! So I'll leave the lightning twins for now, and see if opinions change one way or the other, but Taki will be in!

Well, until next time, thanks for reading!

Naoya; Uzume, Akitsu, Benitsubasa, Yashima, Kazehana, Homura, Kocho, Haihane, Kaho, Taki,

Minato; Musubi, Kusano, Tsukiumi, Matsu,