DISCLAIMER:
Neon Genesis Evangelion copyright Gainax in Japan and ADVideo in America. This is just for entertainment and no monetary purpose is achieved by this work. Characters used without permission.
Although this is not my first fanfic, it is my first regarding Evangelion. Therefore, gentle reader(s), treat it as a first-time fic, ok? Thanks for your comprehension, and hope you like it!
Now, a little clarification here: As I mentioned above, this is not my first fic, but I'm going to introduce a character of my own... no, don't go!! Sheesh... ok, now that you're back, let's continue. Ahem Well, for this purpose, I'm going to use an approach I used for a previous one I'm still writing. Instead of putting Shinji and co. in strange situations, I'll... well, you'll see!
And now, without more delays... let the show begin!!!
THE NAME OF THE GAME
An NGE fic by
Commander Galos (gabinol@infosel.net.mx)
CHAPTER 1
Somewhere in the Multiverse, among the myriads of parallel worlds that might or not exist, exists a society that evolved from the ravages of its own sight and achieved a more advanced way of seeing existence. To this purpose, somewhere in their past, they decided to focus all their efforts into learning and applying everything they could. During this process, they also decided that it would be good to share their knowledge with whatsoever races advanced enough to join them. And also, it was during those first years of their self-appointed task, that they learned the existence of parallel worlds... worlds that could be either considered Heaven or Hell... or Purgatory.
Armed with all their knowledge, this society took upon itself the task of exploring all those different parallel worlds, so they could either learn from them how to avoid those mistakes, or aid them in case of need. For that explicit purpose, they changed the name of their society, becoming an all-encompassing task force whose 'playground' was the whole of the explored Multiverse. Their new name became the Multiple Reality Monitoring Agency, also known as the MRMA, or the Agency.
Another point in consideration for them was that they were humans, and in all the facets of their life, never lost sight of what they were, where they came from, or where they're heading. Also, since most worlds they visited sent ambassadors and representatives of their societies, it quickly became evident that, even using all the planets of their solar system, it would become inadequate to house them all. Their solution? Quite simple, really: Using advanced construction techniques, as well as the whole of their solar system's planets and three more planetary systems surrounding it as raw materials, the Agency built the ultimate space station.
A ring the size of Earth's orbit, hundreds of thousands miles wide, complete with oceans, fertile lands and complex ecosystems integrated in one glorious whole. In addition, they had at their disposition a space fleet that numbered hundreds of millions of ships of all sizes and functions imaginable. Their own social structure was based on a pyramid-like organization, and at the top of it, was a ruling Council that represented all the aspects of their society.
And it's with one such Council member and his family that our story begins....
The house of Yohann Starr, recently elected member of the Council in charge of the Exploration Corps, wasn't too different from most of his fellow members. Located in the suburbs of the capital, it wasn't something that called the eye, nor that there was something that differentiated it from its neighbors... except for one little detail...
WHAM
The slamming of the front door heralded the arrival of the sole daughter of the patriarch of the house, indicating that the young lady hadn't had a good day at school.
"THAT'S IT! THIS IS THE LAST STRAW! I'M GOING TO JOIN A RELIGIOUS ORDER!!"
Of course, saying that she wasn't happy was like saying that the sun was slightly bright.
Upon hearing those words, a good-looking woman came out of the kitchen. 5'3" tall, black hair with a silver streak on the middle, emerald green eyes, she was quite attractive. Seeing the seething teen storming through the living room, she sighed and went to console the young one.
The new arrival sat on the couch, fuming, and crossed her arms in front of her chest, her face a study in displeasure. She didn't react when the other lady sat next to her and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"How was your day dear? Anything you want to talk about with me?" inquired the woman.
"No, mom... everything's peachy!" answered the young lady, but her tone of voice said the contrary.
Seeing that her mother wasn't going to let her go just like that, she decided to unburden her heart. "Ok... it was that creep Jason! He had the gall to admit that he was just going out with me because he wanted ME to recommend him with dad to get into the Academy! Of course we broke right then and there!"
"Oh, dear..." said her mother, embracing her. Feeling safe in the arms of her mother, the young one let down a couple of her defenses and cried quietly. After a minute or so, she asked. "Mom... why did dad have to get in the Council? Why couldn't he remain as an explorer... just like when you two met?"
Her mother remained silent for a few moments, pondering the right way to explain things to her daughter. Finally, she began. "It's because he felt it was his obligation to his people... after all we went through, this was his way to make amends for all the things that happened in the past. Besides, he felt it was also a way to honor the memory of his father, your grandfather."
"I know mom... but... what about us? Didn't he think of what could happen once he got the position? What it would it be like for me?"
None said a thing for a couple more minutes, until the woman broke the silence. "Tell you what, Alyssa. Why don't you mention this to your father? I bet he'll be glad to... talk... with this Jason character."
"No mom!!! Anything but that!!" exclaimed Alyssa, recoiling from her mother. "Remember the last time he 'talked' with Koltan when the same happened? He took a full-armed division to convince Koltan to never get close to me again!! Not to mention that my social life died for a good four months after that!"
"Well, yes... your father can be a little overboard when you are involved... but can you blame him? You are, after all, our little princess." Giving her daughter one small kiss on the forehead, she added. "Now, go get ready. Remember that we were invited tonight for dinner with Doctor Hathaway."
"Uncle Max? Great! Perhaps he can invent something to get rid of clowns like Jason!" Exclaimed Alyssa.
"Knowing him, he might very well have it already. Now go, your father will come home soon."
As soon as Alyssa ran upstairs towards her room to get changed, her mother sighed once more. 'Poor Lysa... this is the fourth time this year. And Yohann isn't helping with his attitude! What can we do?' She remained seated on the couch for a few more minutes, deep in thought. She was so concentrated in her daughter's problem that she didn't notice the front door opening. It was just until a pair of strong arms surrounded her from behind that she noticed the new arrival. Without turning around, she smiled and asked. "Hello dear. How was your day?"
"Busy as the last ones dear." Said Yohann. Giving his wife a quick kiss on the cheek, he promptly took a seat next to her. After giving her another passionate kiss in the lips, he added. "And not having you with me only makes the burden heavier."
"You are always a sweet talker." Said his wife after regaining her breath.
"Only for you, my dear Robin. And... where is my little princess? Did she arrive from school yet?" Yohann was starting to stand up when Robin hold him gently by the arm.
"Yes, she's here... Yohann, dear... please sit down." Once her husband was once again sitting next to her, she took a deep breath and began. "First of all, promise me that you won't lose your temper."
"But..."
"No buts... promise me."
"Very well... I promise. Now... what happened?"
"Sigh you see... do you remember that kid that was dating her lately?"
"Jason? Yes, I remember him quite well. His father is one of the engineers in charge of dry dock 329. Good man, very responsible." At this point, his expression darkened. "Don't tell me his son tried to do something with my little girl..."
"Not precisely... and Yohann, remember your promise! No... what happened is that... he did the exact same thing that her last boyfriend tried..." she stopped when Yohann suddenly stood up and began to pace the living room.
"All right..." he finally said. "Looks like I'll have to have a little chat with both him and his father... I wonder if Jason would like a little in-hands battle practice with live ammo..."
"Oh no you won't!" said Robin, immediately walking next to Yohann and grabbing him by the shoulders. Looking straight into his eyes, she added. "It was bad enough for her the last time! She doesn't need you going after that boy with guns blazing!" softening her tone, she continued. "She needs to learn how to deal with people... not living in a crystal cell, always pampered.
"It hurts me as well, don't think otherwise. But I am not going to crush my daughter's self-esteem by trying to protect her from harm all the time."
Yohann breathed deeply in an attempt to calm his emotions. Once he got a firm hold of them he finally spoke again. "Very well, I won't do a thing... but if something like this happens again..." he let the rest of the phrase hanging, his meaning pretty clear.
"I wouldn't expect anything less from you dear. Now, how about having a nice cup of tea before changing for our dinner?"
"That sounds perfect. Let's go." With that, the couple headed towards the kitchen.
Unknown to them, just behind the wall at the end of the stairs heading to the second floor, Alyssa was slumped, her fists clenched. 'How could she!?!?' she thought. 'I told mom not to tell him a thing! And she goes and blabs about it! Why can't they understand?? Why are they so blind??? It's not fair... not fair...' trembling under the force of her barely contained emotions, she returned to her room to get ready.
* * * *
Dinner at the house of Doctor Maximillian Hathaway went pretty good. The good doctor had been a friend with the Starr family for some time. Having been head of R & D under the command of Yohann's father, he had been the responsible of designing the exploration equipment and vessels actually in use by the Agency. Even more, doctor Hathaway had been the driving force behind the most ambitious project taken by the Agency: the creation of the next quantum leap in Informatics and Cybernetics after the development of fully working Artificial Intelligence programs, the very first Artificial Consciousness Program, or as some people called, Artificial Soul.
The Algorithmic Logistic Expert eXperimental, or A.L.E.X. had been Starr's companion for the trip where he met Robin, and although she had been quite a bundle, Alex proved herself in a way nobody had ever expected: she sacrificed herself to help a friend in need.
Nowadays, the doctor was retired and doing what he most loved: creating virtual miracles with the resources at hand. Various times in the past he had declined the offer to join the Council in charge of the Scientific wing, claiming that "bureaucracy's the bane of all researchers, only suited for politicians, bureaucrats and baboons... no insult intended for the baboons, or course."
Labeled as an eccentric genius by most, he was also known for being a kind and generous old man. And it showed in everything he did.
"So, tell me my boy," said the doctor addressing Yohann after dinner. The whole group (Yohann, Robin, Alyssa and the doctor) was at the living room, "how is everything going at the Council? Slow and chaotic as always?"
"You bet doc!" said Yohann, taking a sip of the cup of coffee he was enjoying. That's what he liked of doctor Hathaway; the old scientist didn't care of his actual position, treating him with the same informality he treated everybody else, regarding position or status. "I still ask myself how dad could stand being there... no wonder he did what he did, being there is quite a drag."
"Heh... leave politics to politicians, I always say. You have my condolences, by the way." Said doctor Hathaway. He then addressed Alyssa, smiling sweetly. "And how about you dear? Have you considered my offer of becoming my assistant?"
"I'm not sure yet, uncle Max..." said Alyssa. "I mean... I'm only fourteen, and there's still so much I want to do before deciding what to do with my life..."
"Oh, don't worry darling! You have your life ahead of you, so take your time! Although, it would be nice to have new blood around here... your presence always liven things up for this old grouch." Alyssa beamed at the praise. That was what she liked of the doctor: he always knew the right thing to make her feel better.
"You mentioned something on the vidphone yesterday, doctor Hathaway." Said Robin. "You said you wanted to show something to my husband you have been working with for some time now..."
"Yes, yes! That's right! Thank you for reminding me dear!" said the doctor, beaming. Addressing Yohann again, he began. "My boy, I've been working on a new kind of systems that will aid your people in their explorations! And the best of all, I already have a couple of working prototypes here in my lab! Want to give them the thumbs up?"
"Doc, coming from you, I'm not sure if to feel surprised or worried." Said Yohann, chuckling. "Please, lead the way."
The whole group went to the doctor's personal research lab, leaving the cleaning to the service droids. The laboratory was the envy of many, equipped with everything a researcher would ever want and need. Due to the person that worked on it, and the many projects ongoing in there, it was also dubbed as "The Miracle Shop"... and with good reason.
In the center of the enormous room, was a blanket-covered object, a meter and a half tall, around seven meters long and with a vague triangular shape. Approaching the object, the doctor began his explanation.
"My dear boy and ladies... as you might well know by now, when I met Yohann here, I had finally developed at the time the very first workable 'living alloy', based on DNA and integrated in a metallic matrix. And that's the base of your bio-armor, Yohann." After the addressee nodded in acknowledgement, the doctor continued. "Well, for me that wasn't enough. My dream has always been the existence of a new generation of ships using that same alloy. But as you know, the metal couldn't withstand the rigors of space travel and dimensional transfer... that is, until now." With a flourish, doctor Hathaway grabbed the blanket and pulled it away from the object it covered. The Starr family gasped at the sight.
The new ship was a pallid steel-blue color, and with the exception of the front crystal canopy, it seemed made of one single piece, not a single weld or bump marring its lines. There were no apparent propulsion system, control rudders or the likes. For all they knew, it could be nothing more than a simple glider... and even then, there seemed to be no way to steer it.
Beaming with pride, the doctor continued with his explanation. "I finally solved all those problems! As you can see, external control systems are a thing of the past, since the ship can 'mold' any control surface as needed! As for a power source... well, I found a way to break Quantum sub-particles into even smaller components, so I was successful in creating the very first Quantum Chamber in our history! The power output is orders of magnitude superior to a matter-antimatter reactor, and it takes only a fraction of the size! The propulsion drive is fully gravitational in nature, and uses gravity waves to guide itself. Completely self-sufficient, this baby doesn't need support units. Theoretically, it could function indefinitely!
"I call this little number, the Manta!"
Nobody said a thing for a moment, the implications of what the doctor had said just beginning to hit them. What was standing in front of them had made all the fleets in the Agency obsolete in one feel sweep. Finally regaining his voice, Yohann just said. "Doc... you will never cease to amaze me. This is absolutely incredible! Do you realize what you have done?"
"Of course I do my boy! Why do you think I built it? Besides... I needed something to keep myself occupied." Said the doctor with an impish smile. "But this isn't all, no no no!! There is more to it!"
"More?" squeaked Alyssa. "Uncle Max... what could top this?"
"How about a new computer system for it?" said the doctor, all the while grabbing a crystal box from a nearby workbench. "After finishing the overall design, I noticed that the actual computers weren't adequate for it. After all, the Manta is actually a living thing, so I figured that, in order to control it, it might need a living computer system. The first problem was, what kind of system? Then it hit me: there are lots of them around! The pilot can be that system! The only thing missing was a good interface."
"But doctor..." inquired Robin. "Isn't a human pilot's mind not fast enough to take on the burden? I mean, the pilot could end up catatonic by the information input."
"Yes, I know dear. I'm glad you've been paying attention!" said the doctor, smiling at her. "That's the purpose of the interface. You all remember Alex..." the adults remained silent after that. They all remembered their good synthetic friend. "Well, after recovering the data she left behind and analyzing it, I developed a new program, one that will adapt to its first user and allow the interface with the ship work seamlessly. Even more, the program will imprint on its user, gaining all the necessary attributes to impeccably function with both pilot and ship."
He then showed the box to his guests. Inside it, was a bracer of the same metal the ship was made of. On its surface were four ruby-colored crystals in a geometrical pattern. "Now this," continued the doctor, "is the core of the interface system. The gems are actually the main CPU control systems, while the bracer is the main memory core. The gems also function as sensor suites, as well as interface connections for other uses the pilot might need it for. By itself, the bracer is generations ahead of any computer system developed by any Agency ally, and even some of our actual systems! Now, in conjunction with its owner... well, the applications are mind-boggling!"
"Doctor... you did it again..." commented Yohann, his mind still reeling at what the doctor had shown him. "You have worked a miracle. What do you need from me?"
"Glad you asked my boy!" said the doctor, smiling broadly. "I finished all the tests I could here on the base, but I still need to perform one more before sending all the schematics and blueprints for approval and production by the Council.
"You see, the last test consists on a dimensional jump. Nothing serious, really. Just a couple of jumps will be enough to test the reliability of both ship and interface. At this point, we don't need a live pilot. A synthezoid will be more than enough; after all, to fully test the interface program we first need to find a suitable pilot. Besides, as you can see, this prototype is too small for any pilot. It's just the test model."
"Uncle Max... is it difficult to use?" inquired Alyssa, her eyes fixed on the small prototype. "I mean... I don't see any controls inside. Just a couple of seats."
"Well dear, as it is, there is no way for a person to use it. But, once wearing the bracer, using it becomes instinctive. Theoretically, it would become an extension of the pilot."
"I'll see what I can do to accelerate your petition doc." Said Yohann. "I think I can arrange a test flight in two weeks at most, sooner if possible. Heh... when the rest of the Council see this baby in action, and if it works as you said, they won't be able to sign the authorizations fast enough!"
"I couldn't ask for anything more my boy!" said the good doctor, shaking Yohann's hand effusively. "Now, how about getting back in the house? The night is young, and there's so much we still have to talk about!" Everybody agreed to the proposition, returning to the living room.
Nobody noticed the gleam that appeared on Alyssa's eyes for the rest of the night.
* * * *
Two weeks later...
"Control protocols in place." Said a technician after checking the readings on his console. "Power output within projected specs, all systems nominal."
"Flight coordinates loaded and accepted by onboard computer." Said another technician. "All systems read green."
"Confirmed." Said a third technician. "Sensors confirm all systems working within projected parameters."
The test was being conducted in one of the many control rooms scattered over the outer face in the ring world. It had three control consoles, one visitor's booth with clear windows on the back, and one main screen, four smaller ones on the sides of the main. Three technicians and two aides were inside; no more personnel were needed.
The main screen was showing the image of a scientific vessel with the Manta attached to its bottom. Since there was no human pilot on it, the decision to have it launched from the main ship's bay was dismissed. Besides, this procedure cut the launch sequence to the bare minimum. The secondary screens showed the interior of the ship, where a humanoid form was clearly seen. The creature was covered with a metallic mesh, as well as a helmet with a silver visor. The synthezoid pilot was programmed with the test procedures, nobody expecting any problems. Just in case, there were two fighter units escorting the prototype. If something went wrong, the escorts could latch to the Manta and take it back to the main base.
"Did any of you expected anything less?" commented Doctor Hathaway from his place in front of the main screen. At last, the day he had been waiting for had arrived. The day the work of his life would finally be tested for all to see.
"Just say the word, doc." Said Yohann, standing next to the scientist. "This is your moment of glory, after all."
Nodding in agreement, doctor Hathaway turned around and addressed the group of technicians. "Well, what are you waiting for? Let's get this show on the road!"
Opening a Comm. Channel, the first technician addressed the test ship. "Archimedes, this is flight control. We have a go. I repeat, we have a go. Begin test."
"Acknowledge Control. Launching Manta... now!" was the response from the science vessel.
On the main screen, the small ship detached itself from the science vessel, heading immediately towards the Jump Gate designated for the test, the escorts following it not far behind. The very first thing all witnesses noticed was that the small ship was fast. Really fast! In no time at all, it had cleared the science vessel and headed towards the Gate at best speed, its escorts trying their best to keep pace with it.
Murmurs of approval were heard from the visitor's booth, where some members of the Council were seated watching the procedures. Upon hearing them, the doctor beamed with pride. It was at that moment that a vidphone rang, being answered by one of the aides. A moment later, Yohann was told to answer the call.
Taking the handle to have a little more privacy, Yohann took the call. "Yes...? Oh, yes Robin! I'm with the doctor and... Calm down, please! I don't understand a word of... What?... WHAT?!?! How long ago was that?... I see... No, I'll call Security right away. Don't worry, we'll find her. You stay home in case she returns. Yes, talk with you later." When Yohann hanged up the speaker, he noticed that Doctor Hathaway was standing next to him, a worried look on his face. "Sorry doc, but I have to leave... Alyssa ran away."
"Oh my lord!" said the doctor, shock clear in his eyes. "But why?"
"That's what I want to know... Robin found a note in her bedroom five minutes ago. It said that she was going to be fine, but wanted some time to sort out the problems in her life. That she would return when everything was finally resolved. Oh, she's soooo grounded!" Yohann was about to leave the control room when everything began to go wrong.
"Synthezoid malfunction!" reported the first technician. "We lost contact with it! Video signal from the Manta has been lost!"
"Confirmed!" said the third technician. "All functions have been terminated... but I don't understand! This readings indicate that it had been turned off manually!"
"Onboard computer malfunction!" reported the second technician. "Readings indicate interface system activation!"
"That's impossible!" said doctor Hathaway. "It's not possible, unless... oh my God! Give me cockpit's full interior image, NOW!! Standby with self-destruct protocols!"
"Doc, what's going on?" inquired Yohann.
"We might have a stowaway in the Manta! That's the only possible explanation!" replied the doctor. "Where is that image?!?!" he roared.
"On main screen sir!" said the second technician. All presents gasped when they saw it. And with good reason...
Seating next to the deactivated synthezoid, was Yohann's daughter, Alyssa. Even more, she was now wearing the interface bracer! Her eyes closed, her face showed deep concentration.
"Open a channel to that ship, now!!" demanded Yohann, gripping a nearby seat with enough strength to bend the metal frame. "And cancel the self-destruct!"
"Self-destruct disabled." Confirmed the third technician. "However, communications are down until the interface is fully integrated."
"Damn..." muttered Yohann. "Call the Archimedes and the escorts. Secure the Manta and bring it back here this instant!"
"Sir, the Manta is accelerating!" declared the first technician. An instant later he added. "Jump Gate activated!"
"Send cancellation codes to the Gate!" screamed Doctor Hathaway. "Don't let her cross it!"
"Can't sir!" said the second technician. "Safety protocols prevent shutdown to prevent the Gate's collapse!"
All presents watched helplessly as the Manta easily outrun its pursuers. A minute later, it crossed the Gate, getting out of that universe and entering what the explorers and travelers called the Stream, the null zone that separated the different universes from each other.
"Call the Archimedes..." said Yohann, his voice void of emotion. "Order it to initiate a scan of the Stream and determine the heading of the Manta. Also, send a general alert to all gates and outposts. Message as follows: find the Manta and stop it without using lethal force. Use whatsoever other means deemed necessary."
"Yes sir." Said the first technician, relaying the orders.
"Yohann..." said doctor Hathaway, placing a hand on Yohann's shoulder. "I'm sorry, I..."
"No, doctor." Said Yohann, not looking at the scientist. "If any, it's all my fault, and I'm the one that should apologize. I take full responsibility of what happened." Taking a shuddering breath, he added. "Now, if you excuse me... I must get back home... and tell Robin everything."
It took Yohann three hours to calm his wife.
* * * *
Alyssa couldn't believe the sensations flooding her mind and body! It was a rush and a half! It was as if she was not inside a ship... she WAS the ship! She could easily feel the universe around her: the soft caress of the cosmic rays on her skin, the singing of the photons and electrons from the stars all around her, the sensation of the gravity waves all around her as if walking through a grass-covered field... there simply were no words to describe it all.
It had only taken a small thought and poof! Her pursuers were left behind, eating her metaphorical dust. Another thought, and she could feel the immense energies coming from the Jump Gate when she ordered it to open. She got a new level of sensory input upon crossing it... she couldn't find a way to describe what she felt upon arriving to the Stream... it was as if she could touch the very fabric of creation! She was everywhere and nowhere at the same time. The universe she left behind was like a marble of incredible beauty, and all around her, a myriad of similar marbles were within her sense's range. She felt humbled and awed at the sheer quantity of them... there were so many, and were so pretty!
She was still admiring her surroundings when Alyssa finally heard the Voice. Faintly at first, she focused her attention onto it, until it was clear. The Voice had a female quality to it... although it also sounded a little young, as if it came from a child. It was asking her something...
"Please, identify yourself and state your destination. Please, identify yourself and state your destination. Please, identify yourself and state your destination..."
"Who are you? What are you?" asked Alyssa, puzzled.
"This unit has no designation." Answered the Voice. "This unit is the system interface for the Multiple Reality Monitoring Agency prototype ship, designation: Manta. This unit still in process of integration with current pilot. Please, identify yourself and state your destination. Please, identify yourself and..."
"Cut it out already!" said Alyssa, a little miffed. Once the Voice kept silence, she remembered. 'Oh yes, that's right! Uncle Max said something about this new system... Well, I guess I made him a favor. The interface works!' Addressing the Voice, she said. "Well... first things first. To answer your questions, my name is Alyssa, Alyssa Starr. As for my destination... anyplace is as good as any."
"This unit does not understand destination input of pilot: Alyssa, Alyssa Starr. Please clarify destination."
"Hey, my name is Alyssa! Just call me Alyssa, all right?"
"Understood. Identification correction done. Please state destination, pilot Alyssa."
"I already told you, just call me Alyssa, ok?? Now, as for a destination... do you have any navigational charts?"
"This unit is programmed with complete navigational charts of the Agency currently explored territory. Displaying now." To Alyssa, it was as if the marbles that represented the different universes began to glow, some in the same steel blue as the Manta, while others glowed in a brilliant green, while others glowed in an orange light. "Blue universes are Agency explored universes. Green universes are under current exploration. Orange universes are pending for exploration." Clarified the Voice.
"Well... obviously Agency-controlled territory is out of the question." Muttered Alyssa to herself. "Places under exploration? Same thing... unexplored territory it is, then."
"This unit suggests not proceeding with actual course of events. Standard exploration rules clearly state that no less than two explorers should initiate first contact with unexplored universes to prevent unwanted cultural contamination. Also to note, this unit does not have registered on its data banks the pertinent authorization to enter unexplored universe."
'Damn! Just what I needed: a regulation buff.' Thought Alyssa, chagrined. She then decided to bluff her way out of the situation. "All right... try this for size..."
"This unit does not have physical presence to try anything for size."
"It's a form of expression, ok?? Anyway, listen. First, I am not alone. You are with me, so that makes us the required couple, right? Not to mention that there is a synthezoid unit with us! Hey, that even makes us a trio of explorers, way over the required couple!"
"This unit sees the logic in the argument."
"Right! Second: this is a... a... a low profile first mission! Yes, that's it! The mission consists in a first examination before the Agency sends a better-suited and more adequate exploration team! And since this was decided on the fly, that's why you don't have the authorization on your memory! Do you understand?"
The Voice didn't say a thing for a few moments, making Alyssa nervous. Finally, it answered. "This unit understands. Please select destination."
'Phew! Dodged that one!' thought Alyssa. She then considered something. "Hey, since we're going to work together, I need to call you something. Do you have a name?"
"This unit does not have a designation."
"Oh yeah, I forgot! Give me a minute..." Alyssa then began to think of a good name for the interface... suddenly, she remembered what doctor Hathaway said about it: that it had been designed using the same basic program lines of her father's first partner, Alex. "Well, in honor of your predecessor, I think I will call you... Alexis! What do you think, do you like it?"
"Designation: Alexis for reference to this unit appended. This unit finds designation acceptable."
"Good! And could you please stop referring to yourself as 'this unit'? It's annoying! At least, refer to yourself in the first person!"
"Understood. I will do that from now on."
"Better! Now, as for our destination..." Alyssa then considered the navigational charts displayed in front of her. After a moment, she pointed to an orange marble bordering the universes under exploration. "Let's go here. After all, I don't want to be too far away from help if I need it."
"Acknowledge. Course plotted; ETA: fourteen minutes, twenty-eight seconds. Engaging stealth mode for first insertion. Engines on-line. Power at full capacity."
Alyssa tuned out the reports from Alexis, instead focusing on enjoying the ride... and trying not to think of what her parents would do to her upon her return...
* * * *
"Sempai?" asked Maya Hibuki.
"What is it, Maya?" asked Doctor Ritsuko Akagi, head of Research at NERV.
"I'm not sure... something appeared briefly on the sensors. It was too brief for the MAGI to identify it."
Doctor Akagi typed some instructions on a nearby console, examining the brief amount of data available. After a moment, she asked. "Did the MAGI indicate if it was a blue pattern?"
"There wasn't enough data for them to identify, it stopped too soon before they could make a positive identification." Answered Maya.
Doctor Akagi said nothing for a few seconds, deep in thought. Finally, she addressed Maya. "Keep me informed. Run a diagnostics routine just in case. If it's a new Angel, I want to know immediately." Turning around towards the exit, she muttered. "It is too soon after the third's attack. We are not ready yet..."
On the top dais of Central Dogma, vice-commander Kozo Fuyutzuki and the supreme commander of NERV, Gendo Ikari, heard the short conversation.
"What do you think it was?" asked Fuyutzuki.
"It does not matter. Whatever it might have been, it is not probable it might affect the scenario." Answered Gendo, his hands crossed in front of his face. "Nevertheless, we have to be on the alert. Nothing must interfere. If this is the case, then it must be... dealt with."
"Very well."
"Wow! What happened here?" asked Alyssa. Below her, a city was visible; however, it showed signs of a great battle having taken place recently.
"I do not have sufficient data to extrapolate a viable theory." Answered Alexis. "However, passive scans do not indicate the presence of hostiles in the immediate vicinity. Query: shall I initiate standard exploration procedures?"
"Aaaah... care to remind me of them?" 'Damn! I should not have skipped that class!'
"As per actual regulations indicate, a place suitable for living and in a secure location must be located, as well as creating an acceptable profile for explorers. Furthermore, a secluded location must be found for the exploration vessel in use that has to be in easy access in case of an emergency."
"All right, I get the picture! Start with it, ok?"
"Acknowledge. Initiating... linking with local information network... link established..." it took Alexis a few minutes to finish, all the while Alyssa took a good look at the place. The city was well designed, albeit a little... old fashioned for her tastes. But in any case, she was sure that this was a relatively peaceful place where she could find the time, peace and quiet she needed to straighten out her troubles.
Famous last words...
They spent a good thirty minutes floating above the city, plenty of time for Alyssa to get a good look of the place. She noticed that the place had a good overall temperature, a plus in her book. If it weren't for the damages visible, it could have been a cute place she wouldn't mind to live in, although she also noticed that repair crews were busy rebuilding the damage. There were also certain areas in the periphery that looked old and ill maintained, but that also added a certain charm to the overall place. She was so busy absorbing all the details of the area that she could that when Alexis talked she yelped, surprised.
"I have finished first level data recognition infiltration. A suitable background has been created for pilot Alyssa to divert attention from her. Also, suitable living quarters and cover storage has been found for both pilot Alyssa and exploration vessel: Manta respectively."
"Geez! Don't surprise me like that again!" panted Alyssa after regaining her breath. "Ok then... what did you find out of this place, and what did you do?"
"In order of query: This place is called Tokyo-3 by locals. According to initial data retrieval, this city suffered an attack from an as for now, unknown entity known as Angel. However, more detailed data could not be obtained due to heavy security protocols active in local data network. Suggested course of action: I am capable of breaking aforementioned security protocols and obtain more detailed data.
"In answer to second part of query: I added the personal background of one Alyssa Starr to local population files. Stating as follows: Alyssa Starr, age 14, daughter of Yohann Starr and Robin Redwing (deceased), Born in North America and recently transferred to Tokyo-3 after passing of guardian Maximillian Hathaway. Moderate amount of credits in local bank account has been deposited to cover expenses. Two-room apartment has been signed up within walking distance of group of warehouses where exploration vessel : Manta can be securely stored.
"Also, due to the nature of exploration group, and obvious need for acquisition of first-hand local data, pilot Alyssa has been signed up in local high school."
"YOU DID WHAT?!?!?" screamed Alyssa, outraged. "Why did you do that??"
"Standard exploration regulations. Suggestion: I can get in contact with nearest Agency exploration team to contact main base for more detailed instructions. Want me to proceed?"
"NO!!! I mean... no, it's not necessary! I mean... why bother them? After all, this is just a routine exploration, right?" said Alyssa, close to panic and praying that Alyssa wouldn't contact the Agency. That would put a cramp on her plans!
"Understood. Query: do pilot Alyssa want to get installed in acquired living quarters?"
"But of course! I'm tired, and want to have a nap."
"Understood. Course to storage area plotted. Engaging engines."
Five minutes later, after securing the Manta in a semi-abandoned storage that Alexis assured nobody would look at, Alyssa used the on-board matter replicator to create a dress so she could blend with the locals. She was about to remove the bracer from her arm when...
"Hey, what gives?" for the first time, she noticed that the bracer had molded itself to seamlessly fit her forearm. It fit so snuggly that she couldn't remove it, and any attempt to find a latch to open it failed.
"Interface bracer should remain in constant contact with pilot Alyssa until total integration is complete." Explained Alyssa. "Also, under standard exploration regulations, a constant link with exploration vessel must be maintained at all times."
"Well, d'oh! But it's going to be hard to explain this thing when everybody sees it! And I'm not wearing long-sleeved blouses to conceal it! It's too damn hot!" Alyssa's rant was interrupted when, all of a sudden, the bracer morphed, quickly transforming in four golden bracelets with a gem each, but still they couldn't be removed from her arm. "wow...!" muttered Alyssa. "never mind... let's go."
After making a short stop on an ATM to retrieve some hard cash, and buying some food, Alyssa arrived at her apartment. It was not big by any stretch of the imagination, nor luxurious. But it had one thing that she liked: it was quiet and relatively clean. The kitchenette was adequate for her needs, the bathroom was fairly clean too. And in one bedroom were a small closet, a desk with a chair and a small futon. 'I'll have to buy a decent bed ASAP. This will have to do for the time being. Oh well..."
She had just gotten comfortable on the futon and was on her way to sleep when a couple of thoughts intruded her already drifting conscious mind. 'Strange... there doesn't seem to be too many people in this building... At least, I hope my neighbor isn't too noisy. Curious name on the door, though... Misato Katsuragi?'
TO BE CONTINUED.
Author's notes:
First of all, sorry if I didn't mention the NGE cast in this, but I needed to create a background on Alyssa before concentrating on the main characters of Evangelion. And before anybody asks, no... I'm not planning to have her as a love interest for Shinji! The poor guy has enough problems as it is, don't you think?
Next on NoG:
The NGE cast is introduced to Alyssa!
Misato meets her new neighbor!
The Three Stooges make first contact with Alyssa, and Kensuke will be suspicious!
Alexis gets curious about a certain albino girl!
The attack of the fourth Angel!
All that and more, so... BE THERE!
Neon Genesis Evangelion copyright Gainax in Japan and ADVideo in America. This is just for entertainment and no monetary purpose is achieved by this work. Characters used without permission.
Although this is not my first fanfic, it is my first regarding Evangelion. Therefore, gentle reader(s), treat it as a first-time fic, ok? Thanks for your comprehension, and hope you like it!
Now, a little clarification here: As I mentioned above, this is not my first fic, but I'm going to introduce a character of my own... no, don't go!! Sheesh... ok, now that you're back, let's continue. Ahem Well, for this purpose, I'm going to use an approach I used for a previous one I'm still writing. Instead of putting Shinji and co. in strange situations, I'll... well, you'll see!
And now, without more delays... let the show begin!!!
THE NAME OF THE GAME
An NGE fic by
Commander Galos (gabinol@infosel.net.mx)
CHAPTER 1
Somewhere in the Multiverse, among the myriads of parallel worlds that might or not exist, exists a society that evolved from the ravages of its own sight and achieved a more advanced way of seeing existence. To this purpose, somewhere in their past, they decided to focus all their efforts into learning and applying everything they could. During this process, they also decided that it would be good to share their knowledge with whatsoever races advanced enough to join them. And also, it was during those first years of their self-appointed task, that they learned the existence of parallel worlds... worlds that could be either considered Heaven or Hell... or Purgatory.
Armed with all their knowledge, this society took upon itself the task of exploring all those different parallel worlds, so they could either learn from them how to avoid those mistakes, or aid them in case of need. For that explicit purpose, they changed the name of their society, becoming an all-encompassing task force whose 'playground' was the whole of the explored Multiverse. Their new name became the Multiple Reality Monitoring Agency, also known as the MRMA, or the Agency.
Another point in consideration for them was that they were humans, and in all the facets of their life, never lost sight of what they were, where they came from, or where they're heading. Also, since most worlds they visited sent ambassadors and representatives of their societies, it quickly became evident that, even using all the planets of their solar system, it would become inadequate to house them all. Their solution? Quite simple, really: Using advanced construction techniques, as well as the whole of their solar system's planets and three more planetary systems surrounding it as raw materials, the Agency built the ultimate space station.
A ring the size of Earth's orbit, hundreds of thousands miles wide, complete with oceans, fertile lands and complex ecosystems integrated in one glorious whole. In addition, they had at their disposition a space fleet that numbered hundreds of millions of ships of all sizes and functions imaginable. Their own social structure was based on a pyramid-like organization, and at the top of it, was a ruling Council that represented all the aspects of their society.
And it's with one such Council member and his family that our story begins....
The house of Yohann Starr, recently elected member of the Council in charge of the Exploration Corps, wasn't too different from most of his fellow members. Located in the suburbs of the capital, it wasn't something that called the eye, nor that there was something that differentiated it from its neighbors... except for one little detail...
WHAM
The slamming of the front door heralded the arrival of the sole daughter of the patriarch of the house, indicating that the young lady hadn't had a good day at school.
"THAT'S IT! THIS IS THE LAST STRAW! I'M GOING TO JOIN A RELIGIOUS ORDER!!"
Of course, saying that she wasn't happy was like saying that the sun was slightly bright.
Upon hearing those words, a good-looking woman came out of the kitchen. 5'3" tall, black hair with a silver streak on the middle, emerald green eyes, she was quite attractive. Seeing the seething teen storming through the living room, she sighed and went to console the young one.
The new arrival sat on the couch, fuming, and crossed her arms in front of her chest, her face a study in displeasure. She didn't react when the other lady sat next to her and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"How was your day dear? Anything you want to talk about with me?" inquired the woman.
"No, mom... everything's peachy!" answered the young lady, but her tone of voice said the contrary.
Seeing that her mother wasn't going to let her go just like that, she decided to unburden her heart. "Ok... it was that creep Jason! He had the gall to admit that he was just going out with me because he wanted ME to recommend him with dad to get into the Academy! Of course we broke right then and there!"
"Oh, dear..." said her mother, embracing her. Feeling safe in the arms of her mother, the young one let down a couple of her defenses and cried quietly. After a minute or so, she asked. "Mom... why did dad have to get in the Council? Why couldn't he remain as an explorer... just like when you two met?"
Her mother remained silent for a few moments, pondering the right way to explain things to her daughter. Finally, she began. "It's because he felt it was his obligation to his people... after all we went through, this was his way to make amends for all the things that happened in the past. Besides, he felt it was also a way to honor the memory of his father, your grandfather."
"I know mom... but... what about us? Didn't he think of what could happen once he got the position? What it would it be like for me?"
None said a thing for a couple more minutes, until the woman broke the silence. "Tell you what, Alyssa. Why don't you mention this to your father? I bet he'll be glad to... talk... with this Jason character."
"No mom!!! Anything but that!!" exclaimed Alyssa, recoiling from her mother. "Remember the last time he 'talked' with Koltan when the same happened? He took a full-armed division to convince Koltan to never get close to me again!! Not to mention that my social life died for a good four months after that!"
"Well, yes... your father can be a little overboard when you are involved... but can you blame him? You are, after all, our little princess." Giving her daughter one small kiss on the forehead, she added. "Now, go get ready. Remember that we were invited tonight for dinner with Doctor Hathaway."
"Uncle Max? Great! Perhaps he can invent something to get rid of clowns like Jason!" Exclaimed Alyssa.
"Knowing him, he might very well have it already. Now go, your father will come home soon."
As soon as Alyssa ran upstairs towards her room to get changed, her mother sighed once more. 'Poor Lysa... this is the fourth time this year. And Yohann isn't helping with his attitude! What can we do?' She remained seated on the couch for a few more minutes, deep in thought. She was so concentrated in her daughter's problem that she didn't notice the front door opening. It was just until a pair of strong arms surrounded her from behind that she noticed the new arrival. Without turning around, she smiled and asked. "Hello dear. How was your day?"
"Busy as the last ones dear." Said Yohann. Giving his wife a quick kiss on the cheek, he promptly took a seat next to her. After giving her another passionate kiss in the lips, he added. "And not having you with me only makes the burden heavier."
"You are always a sweet talker." Said his wife after regaining her breath.
"Only for you, my dear Robin. And... where is my little princess? Did she arrive from school yet?" Yohann was starting to stand up when Robin hold him gently by the arm.
"Yes, she's here... Yohann, dear... please sit down." Once her husband was once again sitting next to her, she took a deep breath and began. "First of all, promise me that you won't lose your temper."
"But..."
"No buts... promise me."
"Very well... I promise. Now... what happened?"
"Sigh you see... do you remember that kid that was dating her lately?"
"Jason? Yes, I remember him quite well. His father is one of the engineers in charge of dry dock 329. Good man, very responsible." At this point, his expression darkened. "Don't tell me his son tried to do something with my little girl..."
"Not precisely... and Yohann, remember your promise! No... what happened is that... he did the exact same thing that her last boyfriend tried..." she stopped when Yohann suddenly stood up and began to pace the living room.
"All right..." he finally said. "Looks like I'll have to have a little chat with both him and his father... I wonder if Jason would like a little in-hands battle practice with live ammo..."
"Oh no you won't!" said Robin, immediately walking next to Yohann and grabbing him by the shoulders. Looking straight into his eyes, she added. "It was bad enough for her the last time! She doesn't need you going after that boy with guns blazing!" softening her tone, she continued. "She needs to learn how to deal with people... not living in a crystal cell, always pampered.
"It hurts me as well, don't think otherwise. But I am not going to crush my daughter's self-esteem by trying to protect her from harm all the time."
Yohann breathed deeply in an attempt to calm his emotions. Once he got a firm hold of them he finally spoke again. "Very well, I won't do a thing... but if something like this happens again..." he let the rest of the phrase hanging, his meaning pretty clear.
"I wouldn't expect anything less from you dear. Now, how about having a nice cup of tea before changing for our dinner?"
"That sounds perfect. Let's go." With that, the couple headed towards the kitchen.
Unknown to them, just behind the wall at the end of the stairs heading to the second floor, Alyssa was slumped, her fists clenched. 'How could she!?!?' she thought. 'I told mom not to tell him a thing! And she goes and blabs about it! Why can't they understand?? Why are they so blind??? It's not fair... not fair...' trembling under the force of her barely contained emotions, she returned to her room to get ready.
* * * *
Dinner at the house of Doctor Maximillian Hathaway went pretty good. The good doctor had been a friend with the Starr family for some time. Having been head of R & D under the command of Yohann's father, he had been the responsible of designing the exploration equipment and vessels actually in use by the Agency. Even more, doctor Hathaway had been the driving force behind the most ambitious project taken by the Agency: the creation of the next quantum leap in Informatics and Cybernetics after the development of fully working Artificial Intelligence programs, the very first Artificial Consciousness Program, or as some people called, Artificial Soul.
The Algorithmic Logistic Expert eXperimental, or A.L.E.X. had been Starr's companion for the trip where he met Robin, and although she had been quite a bundle, Alex proved herself in a way nobody had ever expected: she sacrificed herself to help a friend in need.
Nowadays, the doctor was retired and doing what he most loved: creating virtual miracles with the resources at hand. Various times in the past he had declined the offer to join the Council in charge of the Scientific wing, claiming that "bureaucracy's the bane of all researchers, only suited for politicians, bureaucrats and baboons... no insult intended for the baboons, or course."
Labeled as an eccentric genius by most, he was also known for being a kind and generous old man. And it showed in everything he did.
"So, tell me my boy," said the doctor addressing Yohann after dinner. The whole group (Yohann, Robin, Alyssa and the doctor) was at the living room, "how is everything going at the Council? Slow and chaotic as always?"
"You bet doc!" said Yohann, taking a sip of the cup of coffee he was enjoying. That's what he liked of doctor Hathaway; the old scientist didn't care of his actual position, treating him with the same informality he treated everybody else, regarding position or status. "I still ask myself how dad could stand being there... no wonder he did what he did, being there is quite a drag."
"Heh... leave politics to politicians, I always say. You have my condolences, by the way." Said doctor Hathaway. He then addressed Alyssa, smiling sweetly. "And how about you dear? Have you considered my offer of becoming my assistant?"
"I'm not sure yet, uncle Max..." said Alyssa. "I mean... I'm only fourteen, and there's still so much I want to do before deciding what to do with my life..."
"Oh, don't worry darling! You have your life ahead of you, so take your time! Although, it would be nice to have new blood around here... your presence always liven things up for this old grouch." Alyssa beamed at the praise. That was what she liked of the doctor: he always knew the right thing to make her feel better.
"You mentioned something on the vidphone yesterday, doctor Hathaway." Said Robin. "You said you wanted to show something to my husband you have been working with for some time now..."
"Yes, yes! That's right! Thank you for reminding me dear!" said the doctor, beaming. Addressing Yohann again, he began. "My boy, I've been working on a new kind of systems that will aid your people in their explorations! And the best of all, I already have a couple of working prototypes here in my lab! Want to give them the thumbs up?"
"Doc, coming from you, I'm not sure if to feel surprised or worried." Said Yohann, chuckling. "Please, lead the way."
The whole group went to the doctor's personal research lab, leaving the cleaning to the service droids. The laboratory was the envy of many, equipped with everything a researcher would ever want and need. Due to the person that worked on it, and the many projects ongoing in there, it was also dubbed as "The Miracle Shop"... and with good reason.
In the center of the enormous room, was a blanket-covered object, a meter and a half tall, around seven meters long and with a vague triangular shape. Approaching the object, the doctor began his explanation.
"My dear boy and ladies... as you might well know by now, when I met Yohann here, I had finally developed at the time the very first workable 'living alloy', based on DNA and integrated in a metallic matrix. And that's the base of your bio-armor, Yohann." After the addressee nodded in acknowledgement, the doctor continued. "Well, for me that wasn't enough. My dream has always been the existence of a new generation of ships using that same alloy. But as you know, the metal couldn't withstand the rigors of space travel and dimensional transfer... that is, until now." With a flourish, doctor Hathaway grabbed the blanket and pulled it away from the object it covered. The Starr family gasped at the sight.
The new ship was a pallid steel-blue color, and with the exception of the front crystal canopy, it seemed made of one single piece, not a single weld or bump marring its lines. There were no apparent propulsion system, control rudders or the likes. For all they knew, it could be nothing more than a simple glider... and even then, there seemed to be no way to steer it.
Beaming with pride, the doctor continued with his explanation. "I finally solved all those problems! As you can see, external control systems are a thing of the past, since the ship can 'mold' any control surface as needed! As for a power source... well, I found a way to break Quantum sub-particles into even smaller components, so I was successful in creating the very first Quantum Chamber in our history! The power output is orders of magnitude superior to a matter-antimatter reactor, and it takes only a fraction of the size! The propulsion drive is fully gravitational in nature, and uses gravity waves to guide itself. Completely self-sufficient, this baby doesn't need support units. Theoretically, it could function indefinitely!
"I call this little number, the Manta!"
Nobody said a thing for a moment, the implications of what the doctor had said just beginning to hit them. What was standing in front of them had made all the fleets in the Agency obsolete in one feel sweep. Finally regaining his voice, Yohann just said. "Doc... you will never cease to amaze me. This is absolutely incredible! Do you realize what you have done?"
"Of course I do my boy! Why do you think I built it? Besides... I needed something to keep myself occupied." Said the doctor with an impish smile. "But this isn't all, no no no!! There is more to it!"
"More?" squeaked Alyssa. "Uncle Max... what could top this?"
"How about a new computer system for it?" said the doctor, all the while grabbing a crystal box from a nearby workbench. "After finishing the overall design, I noticed that the actual computers weren't adequate for it. After all, the Manta is actually a living thing, so I figured that, in order to control it, it might need a living computer system. The first problem was, what kind of system? Then it hit me: there are lots of them around! The pilot can be that system! The only thing missing was a good interface."
"But doctor..." inquired Robin. "Isn't a human pilot's mind not fast enough to take on the burden? I mean, the pilot could end up catatonic by the information input."
"Yes, I know dear. I'm glad you've been paying attention!" said the doctor, smiling at her. "That's the purpose of the interface. You all remember Alex..." the adults remained silent after that. They all remembered their good synthetic friend. "Well, after recovering the data she left behind and analyzing it, I developed a new program, one that will adapt to its first user and allow the interface with the ship work seamlessly. Even more, the program will imprint on its user, gaining all the necessary attributes to impeccably function with both pilot and ship."
He then showed the box to his guests. Inside it, was a bracer of the same metal the ship was made of. On its surface were four ruby-colored crystals in a geometrical pattern. "Now this," continued the doctor, "is the core of the interface system. The gems are actually the main CPU control systems, while the bracer is the main memory core. The gems also function as sensor suites, as well as interface connections for other uses the pilot might need it for. By itself, the bracer is generations ahead of any computer system developed by any Agency ally, and even some of our actual systems! Now, in conjunction with its owner... well, the applications are mind-boggling!"
"Doctor... you did it again..." commented Yohann, his mind still reeling at what the doctor had shown him. "You have worked a miracle. What do you need from me?"
"Glad you asked my boy!" said the doctor, smiling broadly. "I finished all the tests I could here on the base, but I still need to perform one more before sending all the schematics and blueprints for approval and production by the Council.
"You see, the last test consists on a dimensional jump. Nothing serious, really. Just a couple of jumps will be enough to test the reliability of both ship and interface. At this point, we don't need a live pilot. A synthezoid will be more than enough; after all, to fully test the interface program we first need to find a suitable pilot. Besides, as you can see, this prototype is too small for any pilot. It's just the test model."
"Uncle Max... is it difficult to use?" inquired Alyssa, her eyes fixed on the small prototype. "I mean... I don't see any controls inside. Just a couple of seats."
"Well dear, as it is, there is no way for a person to use it. But, once wearing the bracer, using it becomes instinctive. Theoretically, it would become an extension of the pilot."
"I'll see what I can do to accelerate your petition doc." Said Yohann. "I think I can arrange a test flight in two weeks at most, sooner if possible. Heh... when the rest of the Council see this baby in action, and if it works as you said, they won't be able to sign the authorizations fast enough!"
"I couldn't ask for anything more my boy!" said the good doctor, shaking Yohann's hand effusively. "Now, how about getting back in the house? The night is young, and there's so much we still have to talk about!" Everybody agreed to the proposition, returning to the living room.
Nobody noticed the gleam that appeared on Alyssa's eyes for the rest of the night.
* * * *
Two weeks later...
"Control protocols in place." Said a technician after checking the readings on his console. "Power output within projected specs, all systems nominal."
"Flight coordinates loaded and accepted by onboard computer." Said another technician. "All systems read green."
"Confirmed." Said a third technician. "Sensors confirm all systems working within projected parameters."
The test was being conducted in one of the many control rooms scattered over the outer face in the ring world. It had three control consoles, one visitor's booth with clear windows on the back, and one main screen, four smaller ones on the sides of the main. Three technicians and two aides were inside; no more personnel were needed.
The main screen was showing the image of a scientific vessel with the Manta attached to its bottom. Since there was no human pilot on it, the decision to have it launched from the main ship's bay was dismissed. Besides, this procedure cut the launch sequence to the bare minimum. The secondary screens showed the interior of the ship, where a humanoid form was clearly seen. The creature was covered with a metallic mesh, as well as a helmet with a silver visor. The synthezoid pilot was programmed with the test procedures, nobody expecting any problems. Just in case, there were two fighter units escorting the prototype. If something went wrong, the escorts could latch to the Manta and take it back to the main base.
"Did any of you expected anything less?" commented Doctor Hathaway from his place in front of the main screen. At last, the day he had been waiting for had arrived. The day the work of his life would finally be tested for all to see.
"Just say the word, doc." Said Yohann, standing next to the scientist. "This is your moment of glory, after all."
Nodding in agreement, doctor Hathaway turned around and addressed the group of technicians. "Well, what are you waiting for? Let's get this show on the road!"
Opening a Comm. Channel, the first technician addressed the test ship. "Archimedes, this is flight control. We have a go. I repeat, we have a go. Begin test."
"Acknowledge Control. Launching Manta... now!" was the response from the science vessel.
On the main screen, the small ship detached itself from the science vessel, heading immediately towards the Jump Gate designated for the test, the escorts following it not far behind. The very first thing all witnesses noticed was that the small ship was fast. Really fast! In no time at all, it had cleared the science vessel and headed towards the Gate at best speed, its escorts trying their best to keep pace with it.
Murmurs of approval were heard from the visitor's booth, where some members of the Council were seated watching the procedures. Upon hearing them, the doctor beamed with pride. It was at that moment that a vidphone rang, being answered by one of the aides. A moment later, Yohann was told to answer the call.
Taking the handle to have a little more privacy, Yohann took the call. "Yes...? Oh, yes Robin! I'm with the doctor and... Calm down, please! I don't understand a word of... What?... WHAT?!?! How long ago was that?... I see... No, I'll call Security right away. Don't worry, we'll find her. You stay home in case she returns. Yes, talk with you later." When Yohann hanged up the speaker, he noticed that Doctor Hathaway was standing next to him, a worried look on his face. "Sorry doc, but I have to leave... Alyssa ran away."
"Oh my lord!" said the doctor, shock clear in his eyes. "But why?"
"That's what I want to know... Robin found a note in her bedroom five minutes ago. It said that she was going to be fine, but wanted some time to sort out the problems in her life. That she would return when everything was finally resolved. Oh, she's soooo grounded!" Yohann was about to leave the control room when everything began to go wrong.
"Synthezoid malfunction!" reported the first technician. "We lost contact with it! Video signal from the Manta has been lost!"
"Confirmed!" said the third technician. "All functions have been terminated... but I don't understand! This readings indicate that it had been turned off manually!"
"Onboard computer malfunction!" reported the second technician. "Readings indicate interface system activation!"
"That's impossible!" said doctor Hathaway. "It's not possible, unless... oh my God! Give me cockpit's full interior image, NOW!! Standby with self-destruct protocols!"
"Doc, what's going on?" inquired Yohann.
"We might have a stowaway in the Manta! That's the only possible explanation!" replied the doctor. "Where is that image?!?!" he roared.
"On main screen sir!" said the second technician. All presents gasped when they saw it. And with good reason...
Seating next to the deactivated synthezoid, was Yohann's daughter, Alyssa. Even more, she was now wearing the interface bracer! Her eyes closed, her face showed deep concentration.
"Open a channel to that ship, now!!" demanded Yohann, gripping a nearby seat with enough strength to bend the metal frame. "And cancel the self-destruct!"
"Self-destruct disabled." Confirmed the third technician. "However, communications are down until the interface is fully integrated."
"Damn..." muttered Yohann. "Call the Archimedes and the escorts. Secure the Manta and bring it back here this instant!"
"Sir, the Manta is accelerating!" declared the first technician. An instant later he added. "Jump Gate activated!"
"Send cancellation codes to the Gate!" screamed Doctor Hathaway. "Don't let her cross it!"
"Can't sir!" said the second technician. "Safety protocols prevent shutdown to prevent the Gate's collapse!"
All presents watched helplessly as the Manta easily outrun its pursuers. A minute later, it crossed the Gate, getting out of that universe and entering what the explorers and travelers called the Stream, the null zone that separated the different universes from each other.
"Call the Archimedes..." said Yohann, his voice void of emotion. "Order it to initiate a scan of the Stream and determine the heading of the Manta. Also, send a general alert to all gates and outposts. Message as follows: find the Manta and stop it without using lethal force. Use whatsoever other means deemed necessary."
"Yes sir." Said the first technician, relaying the orders.
"Yohann..." said doctor Hathaway, placing a hand on Yohann's shoulder. "I'm sorry, I..."
"No, doctor." Said Yohann, not looking at the scientist. "If any, it's all my fault, and I'm the one that should apologize. I take full responsibility of what happened." Taking a shuddering breath, he added. "Now, if you excuse me... I must get back home... and tell Robin everything."
It took Yohann three hours to calm his wife.
* * * *
Alyssa couldn't believe the sensations flooding her mind and body! It was a rush and a half! It was as if she was not inside a ship... she WAS the ship! She could easily feel the universe around her: the soft caress of the cosmic rays on her skin, the singing of the photons and electrons from the stars all around her, the sensation of the gravity waves all around her as if walking through a grass-covered field... there simply were no words to describe it all.
It had only taken a small thought and poof! Her pursuers were left behind, eating her metaphorical dust. Another thought, and she could feel the immense energies coming from the Jump Gate when she ordered it to open. She got a new level of sensory input upon crossing it... she couldn't find a way to describe what she felt upon arriving to the Stream... it was as if she could touch the very fabric of creation! She was everywhere and nowhere at the same time. The universe she left behind was like a marble of incredible beauty, and all around her, a myriad of similar marbles were within her sense's range. She felt humbled and awed at the sheer quantity of them... there were so many, and were so pretty!
She was still admiring her surroundings when Alyssa finally heard the Voice. Faintly at first, she focused her attention onto it, until it was clear. The Voice had a female quality to it... although it also sounded a little young, as if it came from a child. It was asking her something...
"Please, identify yourself and state your destination. Please, identify yourself and state your destination. Please, identify yourself and state your destination..."
"Who are you? What are you?" asked Alyssa, puzzled.
"This unit has no designation." Answered the Voice. "This unit is the system interface for the Multiple Reality Monitoring Agency prototype ship, designation: Manta. This unit still in process of integration with current pilot. Please, identify yourself and state your destination. Please, identify yourself and..."
"Cut it out already!" said Alyssa, a little miffed. Once the Voice kept silence, she remembered. 'Oh yes, that's right! Uncle Max said something about this new system... Well, I guess I made him a favor. The interface works!' Addressing the Voice, she said. "Well... first things first. To answer your questions, my name is Alyssa, Alyssa Starr. As for my destination... anyplace is as good as any."
"This unit does not understand destination input of pilot: Alyssa, Alyssa Starr. Please clarify destination."
"Hey, my name is Alyssa! Just call me Alyssa, all right?"
"Understood. Identification correction done. Please state destination, pilot Alyssa."
"I already told you, just call me Alyssa, ok?? Now, as for a destination... do you have any navigational charts?"
"This unit is programmed with complete navigational charts of the Agency currently explored territory. Displaying now." To Alyssa, it was as if the marbles that represented the different universes began to glow, some in the same steel blue as the Manta, while others glowed in a brilliant green, while others glowed in an orange light. "Blue universes are Agency explored universes. Green universes are under current exploration. Orange universes are pending for exploration." Clarified the Voice.
"Well... obviously Agency-controlled territory is out of the question." Muttered Alyssa to herself. "Places under exploration? Same thing... unexplored territory it is, then."
"This unit suggests not proceeding with actual course of events. Standard exploration rules clearly state that no less than two explorers should initiate first contact with unexplored universes to prevent unwanted cultural contamination. Also to note, this unit does not have registered on its data banks the pertinent authorization to enter unexplored universe."
'Damn! Just what I needed: a regulation buff.' Thought Alyssa, chagrined. She then decided to bluff her way out of the situation. "All right... try this for size..."
"This unit does not have physical presence to try anything for size."
"It's a form of expression, ok?? Anyway, listen. First, I am not alone. You are with me, so that makes us the required couple, right? Not to mention that there is a synthezoid unit with us! Hey, that even makes us a trio of explorers, way over the required couple!"
"This unit sees the logic in the argument."
"Right! Second: this is a... a... a low profile first mission! Yes, that's it! The mission consists in a first examination before the Agency sends a better-suited and more adequate exploration team! And since this was decided on the fly, that's why you don't have the authorization on your memory! Do you understand?"
The Voice didn't say a thing for a few moments, making Alyssa nervous. Finally, it answered. "This unit understands. Please select destination."
'Phew! Dodged that one!' thought Alyssa. She then considered something. "Hey, since we're going to work together, I need to call you something. Do you have a name?"
"This unit does not have a designation."
"Oh yeah, I forgot! Give me a minute..." Alyssa then began to think of a good name for the interface... suddenly, she remembered what doctor Hathaway said about it: that it had been designed using the same basic program lines of her father's first partner, Alex. "Well, in honor of your predecessor, I think I will call you... Alexis! What do you think, do you like it?"
"Designation: Alexis for reference to this unit appended. This unit finds designation acceptable."
"Good! And could you please stop referring to yourself as 'this unit'? It's annoying! At least, refer to yourself in the first person!"
"Understood. I will do that from now on."
"Better! Now, as for our destination..." Alyssa then considered the navigational charts displayed in front of her. After a moment, she pointed to an orange marble bordering the universes under exploration. "Let's go here. After all, I don't want to be too far away from help if I need it."
"Acknowledge. Course plotted; ETA: fourteen minutes, twenty-eight seconds. Engaging stealth mode for first insertion. Engines on-line. Power at full capacity."
Alyssa tuned out the reports from Alexis, instead focusing on enjoying the ride... and trying not to think of what her parents would do to her upon her return...
* * * *
"Sempai?" asked Maya Hibuki.
"What is it, Maya?" asked Doctor Ritsuko Akagi, head of Research at NERV.
"I'm not sure... something appeared briefly on the sensors. It was too brief for the MAGI to identify it."
Doctor Akagi typed some instructions on a nearby console, examining the brief amount of data available. After a moment, she asked. "Did the MAGI indicate if it was a blue pattern?"
"There wasn't enough data for them to identify, it stopped too soon before they could make a positive identification." Answered Maya.
Doctor Akagi said nothing for a few seconds, deep in thought. Finally, she addressed Maya. "Keep me informed. Run a diagnostics routine just in case. If it's a new Angel, I want to know immediately." Turning around towards the exit, she muttered. "It is too soon after the third's attack. We are not ready yet..."
On the top dais of Central Dogma, vice-commander Kozo Fuyutzuki and the supreme commander of NERV, Gendo Ikari, heard the short conversation.
"What do you think it was?" asked Fuyutzuki.
"It does not matter. Whatever it might have been, it is not probable it might affect the scenario." Answered Gendo, his hands crossed in front of his face. "Nevertheless, we have to be on the alert. Nothing must interfere. If this is the case, then it must be... dealt with."
"Very well."
"Wow! What happened here?" asked Alyssa. Below her, a city was visible; however, it showed signs of a great battle having taken place recently.
"I do not have sufficient data to extrapolate a viable theory." Answered Alexis. "However, passive scans do not indicate the presence of hostiles in the immediate vicinity. Query: shall I initiate standard exploration procedures?"
"Aaaah... care to remind me of them?" 'Damn! I should not have skipped that class!'
"As per actual regulations indicate, a place suitable for living and in a secure location must be located, as well as creating an acceptable profile for explorers. Furthermore, a secluded location must be found for the exploration vessel in use that has to be in easy access in case of an emergency."
"All right, I get the picture! Start with it, ok?"
"Acknowledge. Initiating... linking with local information network... link established..." it took Alexis a few minutes to finish, all the while Alyssa took a good look at the place. The city was well designed, albeit a little... old fashioned for her tastes. But in any case, she was sure that this was a relatively peaceful place where she could find the time, peace and quiet she needed to straighten out her troubles.
Famous last words...
They spent a good thirty minutes floating above the city, plenty of time for Alyssa to get a good look of the place. She noticed that the place had a good overall temperature, a plus in her book. If it weren't for the damages visible, it could have been a cute place she wouldn't mind to live in, although she also noticed that repair crews were busy rebuilding the damage. There were also certain areas in the periphery that looked old and ill maintained, but that also added a certain charm to the overall place. She was so busy absorbing all the details of the area that she could that when Alexis talked she yelped, surprised.
"I have finished first level data recognition infiltration. A suitable background has been created for pilot Alyssa to divert attention from her. Also, suitable living quarters and cover storage has been found for both pilot Alyssa and exploration vessel: Manta respectively."
"Geez! Don't surprise me like that again!" panted Alyssa after regaining her breath. "Ok then... what did you find out of this place, and what did you do?"
"In order of query: This place is called Tokyo-3 by locals. According to initial data retrieval, this city suffered an attack from an as for now, unknown entity known as Angel. However, more detailed data could not be obtained due to heavy security protocols active in local data network. Suggested course of action: I am capable of breaking aforementioned security protocols and obtain more detailed data.
"In answer to second part of query: I added the personal background of one Alyssa Starr to local population files. Stating as follows: Alyssa Starr, age 14, daughter of Yohann Starr and Robin Redwing (deceased), Born in North America and recently transferred to Tokyo-3 after passing of guardian Maximillian Hathaway. Moderate amount of credits in local bank account has been deposited to cover expenses. Two-room apartment has been signed up within walking distance of group of warehouses where exploration vessel : Manta can be securely stored.
"Also, due to the nature of exploration group, and obvious need for acquisition of first-hand local data, pilot Alyssa has been signed up in local high school."
"YOU DID WHAT?!?!?" screamed Alyssa, outraged. "Why did you do that??"
"Standard exploration regulations. Suggestion: I can get in contact with nearest Agency exploration team to contact main base for more detailed instructions. Want me to proceed?"
"NO!!! I mean... no, it's not necessary! I mean... why bother them? After all, this is just a routine exploration, right?" said Alyssa, close to panic and praying that Alyssa wouldn't contact the Agency. That would put a cramp on her plans!
"Understood. Query: do pilot Alyssa want to get installed in acquired living quarters?"
"But of course! I'm tired, and want to have a nap."
"Understood. Course to storage area plotted. Engaging engines."
Five minutes later, after securing the Manta in a semi-abandoned storage that Alexis assured nobody would look at, Alyssa used the on-board matter replicator to create a dress so she could blend with the locals. She was about to remove the bracer from her arm when...
"Hey, what gives?" for the first time, she noticed that the bracer had molded itself to seamlessly fit her forearm. It fit so snuggly that she couldn't remove it, and any attempt to find a latch to open it failed.
"Interface bracer should remain in constant contact with pilot Alyssa until total integration is complete." Explained Alyssa. "Also, under standard exploration regulations, a constant link with exploration vessel must be maintained at all times."
"Well, d'oh! But it's going to be hard to explain this thing when everybody sees it! And I'm not wearing long-sleeved blouses to conceal it! It's too damn hot!" Alyssa's rant was interrupted when, all of a sudden, the bracer morphed, quickly transforming in four golden bracelets with a gem each, but still they couldn't be removed from her arm. "wow...!" muttered Alyssa. "never mind... let's go."
After making a short stop on an ATM to retrieve some hard cash, and buying some food, Alyssa arrived at her apartment. It was not big by any stretch of the imagination, nor luxurious. But it had one thing that she liked: it was quiet and relatively clean. The kitchenette was adequate for her needs, the bathroom was fairly clean too. And in one bedroom were a small closet, a desk with a chair and a small futon. 'I'll have to buy a decent bed ASAP. This will have to do for the time being. Oh well..."
She had just gotten comfortable on the futon and was on her way to sleep when a couple of thoughts intruded her already drifting conscious mind. 'Strange... there doesn't seem to be too many people in this building... At least, I hope my neighbor isn't too noisy. Curious name on the door, though... Misato Katsuragi?'
TO BE CONTINUED.
Author's notes:
First of all, sorry if I didn't mention the NGE cast in this, but I needed to create a background on Alyssa before concentrating on the main characters of Evangelion. And before anybody asks, no... I'm not planning to have her as a love interest for Shinji! The poor guy has enough problems as it is, don't you think?
Next on NoG:
The NGE cast is introduced to Alyssa!
Misato meets her new neighbor!
The Three Stooges make first contact with Alyssa, and Kensuke will be suspicious!
Alexis gets curious about a certain albino girl!
The attack of the fourth Angel!
All that and more, so... BE THERE!