22 Days Left
The sun hung low in the sky, casting golden light over the half-built structure that was steadily taking shape in the middle of the city. Steel beams stretched toward the sky, wooden planks were stacked high, and the air was filled with the rhythmic sounds of hammering, drilling, and the occasional colorful cursing from workers dealing with stubborn machinery.
And in the middle of it all, hauling two massive cement bags over his shoulders as if they weighed nothing, was 16 year old Issei Hyoudou.
"Damn, kid!" One of the workers whistled, wiping sweat from his brow as he watched Issei stride across the construction site with casual ease. "What the hell do they feed you in high school? Ain't no way you should be movin' that kinda weight!"
Another worker, a burly guy with a scruffy beard, crossed his arms. "I've been doin' this job for fifteen years, and even I can't lift that much without a crane."
"Are you even human, kid?"
Issei blinked, looking around at the growing crowd of gawking coworkers. He tilted his head in confusion.
"...Eh? But this is just normal lifting, right?"
The foreman, a grizzled old man with a cigarette dangling from his lips, let out a laugh. "Normal? NORMAL?! I just saw you carry enough lumber to build a whole damn shed by yourself!"
Issei scratched his cheek. "Oh... uh, I just think of it as training, y'know?"
The workers exchanged glances, as if trying to decide whether he was joking or if they were witnessing some kind of freak of nature.
One of them nudged the foreman. "Maybe we should call a TV station. 'World's Strongest High Schooler Found Working Construction'—we could make a killing."
Issei, completely unaware of his own absurdity, simply went back to work. To him, all of this was just another way to train his body. After all, back in his world, the training he had done after leaving Yuuka's world pushed past his limits constantly. The track suit Tamamo made was much heavier. So what was a little construction work compared to that?
Still, the strange looks he kept getting made him wonder. 'Wait. Am I that much stronger than normal people?'
Ddraig chuckled in the back of his mind. (Partner, considering you carry my power, yes, you are. To be honest, I'm surprised it took you this long to realize.)
Issei groaned internally. 'Great. Now I feel like an idiot.'
—--------------------------------------------------
The workday had finally wrapped up, and Issei was wiping the sweat off his forehead with his shirt when a familiar voice rang out from the entrance of the site.
"Oi, Hubby~! Time to take your sexy self home!"
The entire construction site froze.
Issei turned just in time to see Uzume striding toward him with a mischievous grin, her long brown hair bouncing slightly with each step. She was dressed in a tight crop top and shorts that left very little to the imagination. The way she casually rested a hand on her hip and smirked made her look like she had just stepped out of a magazine cover.
It didn't help that the afternoon sun backlit her figure perfectly.
Issei felt a chill crawl up his spine as he slowly turned back toward his coworkers, who were all staring at him in a mix of awe, envy, and utter disbelief.
"...No way."
"You gotta be shitting me."
"This high schooler... pulled her?!"
The bearded guy from earlier threw his helmet to the ground. "Damn it. Life isn't fair!"
The foreman took a long drag of his cigarette and exhaled. "You've got to be joking. First, he lifts a goddamn truck worth of supplies like it's nothing, and now this?! Kid, are you secretly some kind of protagonist?"
Issei sputtered. "H-Hey! It's not like that!"
Uzume only made things worse by sauntering over and wrapping her arms around his neck. "Ohhh, don't be shy, Hubby~! You don't have to hide how madly in love you are with me~!"
A collective gasp rippled through the workers.
"She called him Hubby!"
"That's some next-level relationship title?!"
Issei's face burned. "Oi! Uzume, you're making it worse!"
Uzume pouted. "Aww, don't be like that! You don't want to make me sad, do you?"
One of the younger workers clenched his fist. "T-That pout... it's too powerful!"
The foreman groaned. "Great. Now nobody's gonna shut up about this for the rest of the week."
Just when Issei thought things couldn't get worse, Uzume leaned in close and whispered teasingly, "By the way, I told Matsu where you work. She might be stopping by soon too~."
Issei went pale.
Matsu? Here?
He could already imagine her walking onto the site in some ridiculous lab coat, trying to take more data on him while announcing embarrassing things in front of everyone.
He grabbed Uzume's shoulders. "YOU DID WHAT?!"
Uzume giggled. "Oh, I love that panicked look on your face~." Then she silently whispered to him "But don't worry, Matsu is a total shut-in and she probably already knows where you were working. Remember she can hack any camera. She's probably getting all hot and bothered watching you work."
Bringing a massive blush on Issei at the thought of what Matsu is probably doing.
The foreman sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Kid, go home. Before the rest of the guys start rioting over how unfair life is."
Issei groaned in defeat. "Y-Yeah… good idea."
As he trudged out of the construction site, Uzume practically skipping beside him, he could still hear the murmurs of his coworkers.
"This kid is either the luckiest bastard on the planet… or an absolute menace."
"Either way, I hate him."
Issei let out a heavy sigh.
This job was supposed to be normal.
—--------------------------------------
The city lights flickered on one by one as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the streets. Neon signs buzzed to life, illuminating the sidewalks with their colorful glow, while the faint scent of street food filled the air. Couples, families, and the occasional late-night salaryman wandered about, adding to the gentle hum of city life.
Among them, Issei and Uzume strolled along the quiet streets, their hands intertwined in an easy, natural way.
Issei honestly didn't think much about it. He had gotten used to Uzume's playful affection over the past few days, and it wasn't like he minded. She had this way of making things seem normal—even when they weren't.
Uzume, on the other hand, kept glancing at him, a thoughtful look in her eyes.
Issei caught it after the third time. "Alright, what's up? You keep looking at me like you're trying to read my mind."
Uzume grinned. "Oh? You noticed? Guess you're not as dense as you look~."
Issei sighed. "I think that was a compliment… but I can't be sure."
She giggled before her expression softened. "I was just wondering about the other girls in your life. Yuuka and Tamamo, right?"
Issei raised an eyebrow. "Yeah? Why do you wanna know all of a sudden?"
Uzume shrugged. "I dunno. Curiosity, I guess? I mean, you're kinda collecting girls left and right, Hubby. I gotta know if they're gonna be the jealous type when they meet me and Matsu~."
Issei scratched the back of his head. "Huh. Never really thought about it. But… I think it'll be fine. I can handle it."
Uzume gave him a skeptical look. "Really? You sure?"
"...Nope," Issei admitted with a sheepish grin.
She laughed. "At least you're honest."
They continued walking for a moment, the distant sounds of traffic filling the comfortable silence between them.
Then Uzume spoke again. "So… how did you meet them?"
Issei took a deep breath. "Yuuka and her mom, Misuki Hana, were just normal people. Two regular, everyday women—"
"Wait, wait," Uzume interrupted, waving her free hand. "Then how did they get caught up with you?"
Issei's grip on her hand tightened slightly. His expression darkened, just a little.
"...Because I saved them from a serial killer."
Uzume stopped walking.
She turned to stare at him, eyes wide. "...Excuse me?"
Issei glanced at her and sighed. "Yeah. That was a thing. I didn't know the guy was a serial killer at first. I was just walking around when I heard Yuuka's shout for help. So I ran towards the scream and kicked open a door. I then saw Misuki bleeding on the ground and Yuuka crying her eyes out. And the moment I saw that bastard looming over them, I just... acted."
Uzume's expression shifted from shock to outright horror.
"Yeah."
"You fought a serial killer?!"
"Well, when you put it like that, it sounds crazy."
"Because it is crazy!"
Issei chuckled awkwardly. "Well, yeah, but I wasn't gonna just stand there and do nothing." His face grew serious. "Misuki was hurt, and Yuuka… she looked so scared. So I put a stop to whatever that bastard was about to do."
Uzume stared at him for a long moment before sighing and shaking her head. "And here I thought you were just some lucky pervert with super strength. Turns out you're also a damn hero."
Issei rubbed the back of his head. "I wouldn't go that far."
She smirked. "Oh, but you totally are."
They resumed walking, though Uzume kept side-eyeing him like she was still processing the fact that her hubby was also quite a hero.
After a moment, she nudged him. "Alright, what about the other one? Tamamo, right?"
Issei sighed. "That one's… different. I summoned her."
Uzume stopped walking again.
"You what?"
Issei laughed nervously. "Yeah… so, uh, Tamamo's not human. She's a Servant—basically a famous historical figure summoned to fight in a magic war."
Uzume blinked. "Magic war."
"Yeah. The Holy Grail War. Mages summon powerful spirits called Servants to fight for a true wish."
Uzume stared at him. "You're messing with me."
"Nope."
"So you just… summoned a famous dead person?"
"Pretty much."
"And you got… what? A warrior? A legendary king? Some ancient god of destruction?"
Issei coughed. "A sexy fox girl with big boobs."
Uzume wheeze-laughed. "ARE YOU SERIOUS?!"
Issei grinned. "Hey, I just asked for a beautiful woman, and with a bit of help from Sherri. She showed up! Not my fault!"
Uzume clutched her stomach as she kept laughing. "Oh my god, I love this. You got involved in a magic war and still managed to make it about big boobs."
"Hey, in my defense, she's actually really strong. And scary when she wants to be."
Uzume snickered. "Yeah, yeah. So what's she like?"
Issei hummed in thought. "Tamamo? She's… clingy. And dramatic. But also kinda sweet in her own weird way. She fought at my side the whole time, so I trust her completely."
Uzume nodded, looking thoughtful. "And Yuuka? What's her deal?"
Issei smiled a little. "Yuuka, in the beginning, was quiet, timid and afraid. Mostly from what happened. From what she told me she used to be a little aloof, kinda arrogant, but mostly studious."
"'Used to be'? What changed?"
"Well… after everything that happened, she started to open up. And after living with Tamamo and me, she started getting more… sassy. And sarcastic."
Uzume smirked. "So what I'm hearing is… she went from elegant bookworm to deadpan snarker because of you two?"
Issei laughed. "Basically."
Uzume giggled. "Sounds fun. I think I will get along with them."
Issei gave her a wary look. "Just don't start any wars in my house, okay?"
"No promises~."
As they walked toward Izumo Inn, the city lights shimmering around them, Issei couldn't help but wonder—
'How would Yuuka and Tamamo react to Uzume and Matsu?' He sighed. 'Welp. I'll deal with it when it happens.'
—--------------------------------
21 Days Left
The morning sun cast a golden glow over Izumo Inn, its gentle warmth promising a beautiful start to the day. Issei stepped out of the traditional wooden house, stretching his arms with a yawn. The cool morning air mixed with the scent of fresh dew and the faint aroma of breakfast still lingering from inside.
Just as he was about to head out, a familiar figure appeared before him, a bento box in hand.
"Here, Issei-kun," Miya said, handing him a neatly wrapped bento. "You work hard every day, so I made this for you."
Issei blinked in surprise before taking it with both hands. "Whoa, really? Thanks, Miya-san! You're an angel! If I wasn't already taken, I'd probably fall for you!" He laughed without a second thought.
For a moment, Miya's smile remained perfectly in place, but a faint shadow passed over her features. "Ara, Issei-kun, you're quite bold." She said, eyes narrowing just slightly. "Flirting with a married woman so early in the morning…"
Issei froze, his brain catching up to what he had just said. "Wait… what? Married?" He looked genuinely confused. "You don't have a husband, do you?"
Miya's eyes gleamed as a faint, menacing aura flickered around her. "Oh my, Issei-kun, are you questioning me?"
The temperature seemed to drop, and Issei immediately backpedaled. "N-Nope! I just—uh—thank you for the food! Gotta go!" He laughed nervously and turned to escape. Before he could attempt to leave, two familiar figures interrupted.
"Isseeeeiiii~!" Uzume's energetic voice rang out as she practically leaped onto him, wrapping her arms around his neck.
"Wait, Uzume—"
Before he could finish, she stole a quick kiss from him, giggling as she pulled away. "For good luck at work," she teased with a wink.
Matsu, adjusting her glasses, sauntered up beside them. "Well, if Uzume-chan is going to be that bold, then I must as well," she mused before placing a firm but playful kiss on Issei's lips. She pulled away with a sly grin. "Make sure you think of me while you're working, hmm?"
Miya's expression darkened slightly, and her aura became almost visible. "Public displays of affection should be kept…moderate."
Uzume and Matsu exchanged amused looks before giving exaggerated salutes. "Yes, ma'am!"
Issei, still dazed from the double ambush, shook his head and sighed. "You two are gonna get me killed one day…"
Still, despite the mild embarrassment, a small smile played on his lips as he walked away from the inn.
—-------------------------------------
The streets of Shinto bustled with life, the sounds of conversations, distant car horns, and the occasional chirping bird forming a familiar backdrop as Issei made his way to work. He finally reached a quieter part of the city.
However, his peaceful walk was suddenly disrupted by the sharp sound of a loud argument.
"Please, let go of me!"
"Stop struggling, damn it! You're coming with me whether you like it or not!"
Issei's eyes narrowed as he quickly turned toward the source of the commotion. Not too far ahead, a tall,black-haired man was aggressively gripping a young girl's arm. The girl had short brown hair, timid black eyes filled with distress, and she wore a white gown with black accessories. But what stood out the most was the massive hammer she held in her other hand—easily larger than her entire body.
Despite the hammer's size, the man seemed intent on dragging her somewhere, but the sheer weight of the weapon made it nearly impossible. Frustrated, he clenched his teeth and raised his hand, about to strike the girl in anger.
Issei had seen enough. "Oi."
The single word carried authority, making the man pause and glance at him in irritation. Issei's expression was firm, his brown eyes burning with quiet intensity. "Let her go."
The man scoffed, unimpressed. "And who the hell are you supposed to be?"
Issei stepped closer, his posture relaxed but his presence unwavering. "Someone who doesn't like seeing guys like you push people around."
The man clicked his tongue. "This is none of your business. Walk away before you regret it."
Issei didn't move. "Not happening."
A vein pulsed in the man's forehead before he snarled and grabbed Issei's shirt. "Listen, you little—"
He didn't get to finish his sentence.
Before he could react, Issei's hand shot up, gripping the man's wrist with a vice-like grip. With a sharp twist, a sickening crack echoed, and the man cried out in pain, his knees buckling.
"A-AHHH! LET GO, LET GO!"
Issei held firm for a few seconds longer before releasing him, watching as the man stumbled back, clutching his wrist. The moment he regained his footing, he took one last look at Issei, before bolting in the opposite direction.
With the threat gone, Issei turned his attention to the girl. "You okay?"
The girl hesitated, clutching her hammer tightly before giving a small nod. "Y-Yes… Thank you."
Now that he could get a better look at her, Issei noted her features—gentle but with a strange mix of innocence and strength. His gaze briefly flickered to her hammer. "You're a Sekirei, aren't you?"
The girl's eyes widened. "H-How do you know?"
"I've… met a few." He admitted with a small chuckle. Then his expression turned serious. "Why'd you let him push you around like that? You could have crushed him with that thing."
The girl looked down, shifting on her feet. "I-I don't like hurting people…"
Issei studied her for a moment before nodding. "Fair enough. Power should be used responsibly and just because you have it doesnt mean you should use it."
He turned to leave, confident she was safe now. But just as he took a step, he felt a small, warm hand wrap around his wrist.
"Please, hold on. Why did you help—." The girl said, hoping to at least get his name.
The moment their skin touched, a surge of energy rippled through the girl. Her breath hitched as every nerve in her body reacted, her instincts screaming for a connection. The girl gasped, her body trembling as something deep inside her awakened.
Issei turned his head, about to ask what was wrong—only for his words to be cut off as the girl suddenly pulled him forward, her lips crashing against his in a desperate kiss.
A brilliant burst of light erupted between them, and glowing wings of energy flared to life behind her.
The girl's breath was shaky as she pulled back, eyes now filled with determination.
"S-Sekirei No. 84… Yashima…" she whispered, her voice laced with both nervousness and resolve. "The hammer of my pledge! Shatter the enemies of my Ashikabi!"
Issei stared blankly at the glowing wings. Then at Yashima. Then back at the wings. "…Oh, come on." Dread filled his stomach.
'How am I going to explain this?'
Issei let out a long sigh, rubbing his temples as the glow of Yashima's newly formed wings faded into the morning light. He could already feel the headache coming, not from the kiss itself but from the inevitable reactions of Uzume, Matsu, and the others.
The hammer-wielding girl, Yashima, stood before him, fidgeting nervously, her large weapon resting on the ground beside her. She peeked up at him with wide brown eyes, clearly worried.
"U-Um… D-Did I do something wrong?" she asked, voice barely above a whisper. Her hands clutched at the hem of her gown, twisting the fabric anxiously. "I-I was just… following my instincts."
Issei exhaled again, shaking his head. Damn it. He hadn't meant to make her feel bad, but his initial reaction must have been too obvious. "No, no, it's not that," he said quickly, holding up his hands. "You didn't do anything wrong, Yashima."
She looked at him uncertainly, still trembling like a leaf in the wind. The sight made his gut clench. He wasn't mad, not at her at least. She was just doing what Sekirei were apparently hardwired to do when they found their destined one.
"It's just…" Issei scratched the back of his head, searching for the right words. "I already have two Sekirei. And, uh… two girlfriends. So, yeah, I'm kind of worried about how they'll react to this."
Yashima's eyes widened slightly, and a tiny gasp escaped her lips. "O-Oh… Oh no… D-Does that mean… am I… a b-burden?"
Her voice cracked at the end, and Issei felt his heart drop into his stomach.
"No!" He stepped forward instinctively, placing his hands on her shoulders. "It's nothing like that. You're not a burden, okay?" He softened his voice, hoping to ease her fears. "I was just surprised, that's all. I didn't expect this to happen this morning."
Yashima bit her lip, still uncertain. "But… you seemed upset."
Issei winced. Yeah, he had definitely reacted poorly.
"That's on me." He admitted, offering a small smile. "I was just caught off guard. You didn't do anything wrong, I promise."
She studied him, her expression hesitant, but his words seemed to ease some of her fear. Her trembling slowed, and the tension in her shoulders lessened.
"You… You really mean that?" she asked.
Issei gave her a firm nod. "Yeah. Cross my heart."
Yashima finally let out a breath she'd been holding, her posture relaxing. "I-I see… Thank you, Ashikabi-sama…"
Issei's eye twitched. He wasn't sure if he'd ever get used to being called that. But he later remembered he hadn't introduced himself and held his hand. "My name is Issei. Issei Hyoudou."
Yashima was quick to hold that hand, happy to know Ashikabi's name. "Yes. I-it's good to meet you.
He glanced around, suddenly realizing they were still standing in the middle of the street. The people who had stopped to watch the commotion had moved on, but he could still feel a few curious stares.
"We should probably get out of here before that guy comes back," he suggested. "Are you okay to walk?"
Yashima nodded, gripping the handle of her hammer. "Y-Yes, I'll follow wherever you go."
And just like that, Issei realized his morning had taken a turn he absolutely was not prepared for as he headed back to the inn.
—------------------------------
Issei trudged back toward Izumo Inn, his mind spinning as he felt the presence of Yashima trailing closely behind him. Her heavy hammer made a distinct clunk with every few steps, but other than that, she was silent, her head lowered slightly as if afraid to upset him further.
(Bwa ha ha! You get what you deserve, partner. Who told you to butt in on something that wasn't your problem.) Ddraig's laughter roared in his head.
'What was I supposed to do? She really looked troubled.'
(Let's hope the rest of the girls think so.) Ddraig says as he can picture many scenarios the rest of Issei's women could do. (Especially that Landlady.)
'I don't even want to imagine what she'll do.' Not only had he skipped work—something that was definitely going to bite him in the ass later. But he also made Yashima feel bad.
And knowing how things worked at the inn, there was no way he'd be able to sneak her in unnoticed.
They stepped onto the inn's grounds, the peaceful atmosphere doing little to ease the growing dread in Issei's gut. The moment he slid the front door open, he knew he was doomed.
Standing in the entrance hall, arms crossed, was Miya Asama. Her purple eyes gleamed with the intensity of a thousand judgmental suns, her ever-present serene smile hiding a terrifying wrath beneath it.
"You're back early, Issei-kun." Her voice was calm. Too calm.
Issei swallowed thickly. 'Oh, I'm so dead.'
"H-Hey, Miya-san! Yeah, uh… so about that…" He scratched the back of his head, forcing a nervous chuckle. "Something… came up."
Miya's eyes flickered to Yashima, who immediately straightened up like a soldier caught slacking in front of a drill instructor. The landlady's smile widened ever so slightly.
"My, my. And who is this?"
Yashima quickly bowed, gripping her hammer tightly in her hands. "I-I am Sekirei No. 84, Yashima! I-It's an honor to be here!"
Issei coughed into his fist. "Yeah, so… funny story. I kinda, um… winged her by accident?"
Miya didn't say anything, but the way her aura subtly darkened made his soul want to evacuate his body.
"I swear, it wasn't on purpose!" Issei quickly added. "I was just helping her out of a bad situation, and then—bam! She kissed me, and now she's my Sekirei."
Miya hummed thoughtfully before speaking. "I see. And I assume you are here to ask if she can stay?"
Before Issei could answer, Yashima looked up at Miya, her brown eyes filled with uncertainty. But this was a chance to stay closer to her Ashikabi. "U-Um… if it's not too much trouble… May I stay here? I don't have anywhere else to go…"
Miya studied the girl for a long moment before closing her eyes and letting out a sigh. "You may stay."
Issei's shoulders sagged with relief. "Oh, thank god."
"But."
His back stiffened.
"You are responsible for her rent, Issei-san." Miya's smile returned. "And for any damages she may cause with that hammer of hers."
Yashima let out a squeak and held her weapon closer, as if suddenly realizing just how destructive it could be.
Issei groaned, rubbing his face. "Yeah, yeah. I figured as much…"
Just as he thought he was in the clear, loud footsteps came echoing down the stairs. Uzume appeared, arms resting behind her head, a lazy smirk on her face.
"Yo, Issei!" She called out. "Matsu saw you coming back with a new girl through her many cameras."
"Of course she did…" Issei muttered under his breath.
Uzume's smirk widened as she stopped in front of them, eyeing Yashima up and down. "So, what's the deal? Why are you back home so early? Got tired of work already?"
Issei sighed. "Long story. Let's take this to our room."
Uzume raised an eyebrow at that but shrugged. "Sure thing, big guy."
—--------------------------------------
As they moved upstairs, Yashima kept her head low, clearly nervous about facing Uzume and Matsu. When they reached Issei and Uzume's shared room, Matsu was already waiting inside, sitting on the bed with a knowing grin.
"Took you long enough~," She teased, adjusting her glasses. "I already ran facial recognition on your new friend here. Her name's Yashima, and she's a hammer-wielding Sekirei. Good pick, Issei!"
Yashima flinched, clearly overwhelmed. "W-Wait, how do you know that!?"
Matsu simply tapped the side of her glasses, her smirk growing.
"She's a hacker, and another Sekirei." Issei supplied dryly before shaking his head. "Anyway, let's get down to business."
He turned to Uzume and Matsu, arms crossed. "So, yeah. I accidentally winged Yashima."
There was a beat of silence before Uzume and Matsu both gave him very unimpressed looks.
"…Of course you did," Uzume deadpanned.
Matsu giggled. "You sure do collect them, huh, Ise-kun?"
Yashima, meanwhile, hesitantly stepped forward before bowing deeply. "I-I deeply respect you both as my seniors! Please guide me well!"
Uzume and Matsu exchanged glances before looking at Issei again.
Uzume grinned. "Well, at least she's polite. Guess we'll see how this plays out, huh?"
Issei groaned, already dreading how chaotic things were about to get.
Uzume and Matsu sat across from Yashima, who was still fidgeting nervously. The poor girl had been through a lot today, and now she was in the company of people she barely knew. Her eyes darted between Uzume, the veiled beauty, and Matsu, the red-haired woman with glasses, who had an aura of mischief about her.
"Alright, cutie, let's start with introductions!" Uzume declared, crossing her legs as she leaned forward with a playful smirk. "I'm Uzume, Sekirei Number 10, if you need any advice on fashion and clothes just come to your big sis, and this is my friend, Matsu, Sekirei Number 2, careful she's just as big a pervert as our dear Ashikabi."
Matsu adjusted her glasses and wiggled her fingers in greeting. "That's right, I'm the brilliant, sexy, and absolutely untouchable super hacker, Matsu!" she said with a cheeky grin. "If you ever need information, I'm your girl."
Yashima blinked at them, still unsure of how to respond, but she finally gave a small bow. "I-I'm Yashima… Number 84…" she said hesitantly, her voice soft.
Uzume's smile turned into something gentler. "No need to be nervous, sweetheart. You're now one of us."
Yashima nodded slightly but still clutched at the hem of her outfit.
Issei, who had been leaning against the couch, decided it was time to explain the situation. "Alright, so here's what happened." He took a deep breath and recounted the events—the cruel man who had nearly Winged Yashima, how he intervened, and how he ended up saving her.
Uzume's expression darkened as she clenched her fists. "That bastard," she growled. "Trying to force a Sekirei. That's disgusting."
Matsu crossed her arms, an unimpressed look on her face. "Sounds like just another insecure loser trying to compensate for something."
"I mean, look at her," Uzume continued, gesturing to Yashima, who was now looking down. "She's way too sweet for some violent thug to control. He would've ruined her!"
"Exactly!" Issei agreed, nodding firmly. "That's why I had to step in."
"Hey, you doing okay there, Yashima?" Uzume asked, tilting her head. "That was a pretty rough situation back there."
Yashima glanced up, her golden eyes hesitant. "I… I'm okay," she said softly. "Just… grateful."
"Grateful?" Matsu quirked an eyebrow, glancing at Issei.
"For Issei-san saving me," Yashima clarified, her voice filled with sincerity. "If he hadn't interfered… I…"
The thought alone made her shudder. That cruel man could have become her Ashikabi. He was full of nothing but anger. The idea of being bound to someone like that forever was horrifying.
Uzume crossed her arms, her expression darkening. "That bastard was a real piece of work. If he had Winged you, your life would've been hell."
Matsu nodded, her usual playful demeanor replaced with something more serious. "Agreed. From what you told us, this guy had no business being an Ashikabi. I hate guys like that—thinking they own you just because of some stupid power trip. You did good, Issei," Matsu praised, grinning. "Honestly, I can't even imagine what that guy would've done if he'd gotten his hands on her."
Uzume nodded. "No kidding. This poor girl would've been miserable."
Issei sighed, rubbing the back of his head. "Yeah, well… that's also why I skipped work today." He turned to Matsu, looking hopeful. "So… any chance you can help me out with an excuse?"
Matsu smirked. "Oh? You need me to cover for you? What's in it for me?"
Issei groaned. "Come on, Matsu, don't be like that."
She chuckled, waving a hand dismissively. "Relax, I'll take care of it. I'll cook up a reason so good, they'll be apologizing to you for making you work in the first place."
"Thanks, you're the best," Issei said, relieved. " Just try to make it believable."
Now that was settled, Issei turned his attention back to Yashima. She had been sitting quietly, her hands folded in her lap. He could tell she was still shaken.
"Alright, Yashima, there's something I need to tell you," he started, his tone more serious.
She looked up at him, tilting her head slightly.
"The thing is… I'm not from this world," Issei said.
There was a pause as Yashima processed his words. "Eh?"
Issei took a deep breath. "I'm a dimensional traveler. I come from a world kind of like this one—full of humans, cities, and all that—but with way more supernatural stuff. Magic, gods, different species… it's all real where I come from."
Yashima blinked, looking overwhelmed. "S-supernatural…?"
"I also have a dragon living inside my soul."
(Hello little girl.) Came Ddraig's voice from Issei's hand.
"And in a few weeks, I'll be leaving this world and going to return back home," Issei continued. "When that happens you'll be coming with me. I also have two girlfriends and a daughter."
Yashima stared at him, and then—
Her body swayed.
"Uh… Yashima?" Issei called out, but before he could say anything else, her eyes rolled back, and she collapsed forward.
Uzume's eyes widened. "Oh crap, I think you broke her."
"She's overheating," Matsu commented, adjusting her glasses. "You just hit her with way too much information at once, dummy."
Issei barely managed to catch Yashima before she hit the ground. "Oh, come on, I didn't think she'd pass out!" He carefully adjusted her so she was lying on the couch, her head resting on his lap. "Man, I really need to work on my explanations."
"Ya think?" Uzume teased, watching with mild amusement.
Issei sighed, brushing a few strands of hair away from Yashima's face. "Guess we'll just let her rest for now."
—----------------------------------------
A while later, Yashima's eyes fluttered open.
Her vision was blurry at first, but she soon realized she was resting against something warm and comfortable. Looking up, her cheeks immediately burned red as she realized she had been lying on Issei's lap.
Her entire face turned bright red. "I-I'm sorry!" she stammered, bowing her head quickly.
Issei chuckled, shaking his head. "Don't worry about it." He reached out and gently patted her head. "If anything, I should be the one apologizing. I kinda dumped a lot on you all at once."
Yashima stared at him, still flustered, but then her gaze softened. She hesitated for a moment before whispering, "I don't mind…"
"Huh?" Issei blinked.
"As long as I can stay with you… I don't mind," she admitted shyly.
There was a brief moment of silence before Issei smiled. "Thanks, Yashima. That really means a lot."
Uzume, watching the exchange, smirked and nudged Matsu. "Well, well, well, look at them."
Matsu pushed her glasses up, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "I suppose it's inevitable. Issei does have a way of attracting all kinds of girls~"
Issei shot them both a glare, but it was half-hearted. For now, everything seemed peaceful.