Disclaimer: I do not own Evangelion, or anything associated with it. I have written this story solely because I enjoy writing.
Disclaimer: I do not own anything belonging to Marvel Comics or anything associated with it. I have written this story solely because I enjoy writing.
Chapter 11: Gladiator
"Hey, Hikari!" Asuka smiled as she made her way over to the class representative.
"Oh, hi, Asuka!" Hikari replied, turning to smile at the German. "How are you doing?"
How am I doing? I managed to single-handedly turn a mission that could have ended in Third Impact into an absolute success, and you're wondering how I'm doing? Asuka thought with a hint of incredulity as she thought back to that mission, the memory of that succulent moment of triumph still bringing a deep smile to her face. When, after hearing that failure would likely mean getting bombed out of existence by the JSSDF, after the torturous heat she had had been forced to endure during the dive into the heart of that molten inferno, and after spending far too much time stuck in that ridiculous heat-resistant plug suit, with her Unit 02 forced to wear the equally offensive of D-Type equipment, she had arisen from the volcano with her prize. I captured an Angel! An actual live Angel! Something that neither those stupid, interfering super-bitches or the Invincible Baka Shinji ever came close to doing!
As she thought of this, as well as the high praise this had won her from Misato, Ritsuko, as well as Commander Ikari himself, Asuka reluctantly returned to the moment. "I'm feeling pretty good," she deliberately understated before glancing over at the girl who was sitting next to her friend. "So, what are you and Rei talking about?"
"Nothing much," Hikari replied with a shrug. "I was just looking for people to volunteer for the upcoming swimming meet, and I thought I'd see if Rei was interested."
Raising an eyebrow at this, Asuka turned her attention towards her fellow pilot. "Really?"
Nodding, Rei answered, "However, I do not know if it would be wise for me to volunteer." Returning her attention to Hikari, the blue-haired girl explained, "My duties at NERV take up a great deal of my time, Horaki-chan. I am unable to guarantee that I would have enough time to spend practicing for an event such as that."
"I understand, Rei. But please, at least give it some thought," Hikari persisted. "Our team is down by three members, thanks to the jerks in question flunking their exams. If we're gonna have a chance of winning this meet, we need to get some new talent! And I've seen you swimming! You act like you're totally at home in the water!"
Nodding, Rei then answered, "I will...consider it." Then she looked up at Asuka and added, "Greetings, Pilot Sohryu. Did you wish to talk with Horaki-chan?"
"Sorta," Asuka answered before turning towards her friend. "Just wanted to make sure that we were still on for Friday, that's all."
"You don't have to worry about me, Asuka!" Hikari assured her with a smile. "I haven't had a night out like what we've got planned in what feels like forever! No way I'm gonna miss out!"
"Great!" Asuka grinned in response. "It'll make a good opportunity to celebrate my very first successful mission!"
As Hikari nodded her response, the German noticed Rei frowning out of the corner of her eye. "Still on?" she repeated questioningly, looking from one girl to the other. "What do you mean? Still on for what?"
"For our night out on the town, of course!" Asuka responded, giving the albino a look.
When Rei continued to frown perplexedly, Hikari gave her an embarrassed smile. "Asuka and I have been planning on going out with some of the girls for trip around town, that's all. Do some shopping, maybe check out a movie, that sort of thing."
"Besides, there's this new store opening at the mall," Asuka added with a knowing grin. "I didn't have chance to really check it out last time I was there, but some of the stuff looked pretty fancy! Especially for Japanese fashions!"
Narrowing her eyes, Rei cocked her head to the side before asking. "Is there something…wrong with Japanese clothing?"
"You mean, other than the fact that it's totally uninspired?" Asuka sniffed, thinking evil thoughts about the low-grade clothing that tended to be the standard of the local mall.
"Anyway, we'll be shopping at the mall, checking out a few other places around town, that sort of thing," Hikari explained in an offhand fashion. Then her eyes widened, seeming to glow even brighter. "Say, why don't you come with us?"
The way Rei's eyes widened made it clear that she was surprised by this offer, and she wasn't the only one. "What?" Asuka started, looking at Hikari like her head had just come unscrewed. "Why do you want her to come along with us?"
"Well, why not?" Hikari wondered. "It'll give me a chance to talk more about the swim meet. And besides, since she missed out on the trip to Okinawa as well, I figured she could use a break as well, just like you."
Pressing her lips together, Asuka considered Hikari's words. On the one hand, the pigtailed class representative had a valid point. As Eva pilots, they were both entitled to best possible treatment, certainly superior to the kind she had been forced to put up with since coming to Japan. And since she was still irritated over being forbidden to go on that particular trip, there was no reason to believe that Rei wasn't similarly annoyed. And even forgetting these things, there was no reason the 1st Child shouldn't be allowed to come with them, since they were already bringing along a couple of their classmates.
But even as she thought this, Asuka narrowed her eyes at the child chosen to pilot by the Marduk Institute, she couldn't help but feel herself rebelling against the notion. There was just something wrong about Rei. Never mind the odd coloring of her hair, skin, and eyes; the way she acted made her seem like something not entirely human. Like something that had been made to look and act human, but was only partly successful in that.
Every time I see her in class, she's sitting around, looking out the window, Asuka frowned inwardly. She might as well be a Gott-damned doll...!
Scowling as she considered the blue-haired girl, who just sat there, looking like an oversized doll even then, Asuka frowned and began to shake her head. "Give me break, Hikari!" she protested, hoping to drive this idiotic idea from her friend's mind. "Why the heck would you want her to -?"
"Horaki-chan, Pilot Sohryu," Rei broke in, her voice causing the German's words to fall flat in her mouth. As the two girls looked at the 1st Child, she looked back, she smiled a smiled that had no real emotion to it. One that seemed intended to be a small, gentle smile, but came off as being more of a rehearsed act than anything else. "I think…I would like to join you and the other girls. If that is no problem."
"Really? That's great!" Hikari enthused, placing her hand upon Rei's. "And it would be a great chance for all of us to get to know each other better!"
When the two of them looked expectantly at Asuka, clearly wondering what she would say to this, the German simply stood there, wondering how the heck this could have happened. How what was going to be an enjoyable night out had somehow been tainted with the presence of a living, breathing doll. Something made even worse by the fact that, under the circumstances, she had no rational argument to give to Hikari as to why the albino shouldn't be allowed to come along.
"Fine, whatever!" Asuka finally grumbled, folding her arms across her chest as she looked away. "It's not like it's any big deal."
"Great!" Hikari declared, completely unaware that it was anything but. "On Friday, we'll get together right after school before we head out."
"Agreed," Rei returned. "I will have to let Misato know of these plans, but I do not believe this will provide any difficulty."
Glancing at the albino out of the corner of her, Asuka frowned before grudgingly nodding. "Yeah. Misato's pretty easy when it comes to this stuff." Then she looked over at Hikari, making a point not to meet Rei's eyes before saying, "Anyway, I better get going! With how busy Kaji's been lately, I want to be able to spend some real time with him!"
With that, Asuka turned and started back to her home in the Geofront. Trying to put the fact that a nasty black spot had been put on her upcoming plans. Wondergirl, you better not get in my face this Friday! Not if you know what's good for you!
As Asuka stomped away, Rei couldn't help but feel that she had made some kind of mistake in her smiling.
In her observations of her fellow students, as well as watching shows on TV, Rei had been quick to learn that a smile generally had a positive effect on the person it was used upon. Though she had seen several variations on this facial expression that generally did not result in a positive response, the one she had employed when she realized that Asuka had been growing upset generally was one that enjoyed a greater level of success in soothing an irate individual. And yet in this case, it had seemed to make the touchy redhead that much more annoyed.
I do not recall a smile ever producing such a reaction in anyone I have ever seen before, Rei thought, trying to figure out what she had done wrong. Then again, the majority of Pilot Sohryu's actions have been incomprehensible for me. Perhaps this is just another example of her…unpredictability.
As Rei considered this, Hikari shrugged helplessly. "Anyway, be sure to let me know if you can come or not as soon as you can," the class representative told her as she rose to her feet. "I better get going now. I want to make sure dinner's ready before Daddy gets home."
"Understood," Rei replied, thinking that Shinji would likely be doing the same as soon as he got back to their home. "Until next time, Horaki-chan." Hikari gave a polite bow of her head before turning to leave. Leaving the 1st Child to wonder if she had made a wise decision in asking permission to join them.
I know so little about...actually interacting with people, Rei thought as she started in the direction of her own home. For the most part, all I've done is...observe others as they talk to each other. And...I don't want my ignorance to spoil Horaki-chan's or Pilot Sohryu's enjoyment of this 'night out'.
But even as Rei thought this, she frowned, because from what she could tell, the other two girls were actively looking forward to this night out. To doing something that was likely a normal part of their lives. Something they enjoyed.
And joy was something Rei knew precious little of.
The only time I've ever felt any happiness before I was...reborn...was when Gendo congratulated me for doing something well, or when he risked his life for mine, Rei thought, considering her life as of late. Of the difficulties she sometimes had with the lack of privacy, something that was more often than now outweighed by the fact that she was in the presence of people who genuinely cared for her, as well as the happiness when Shinji told her she was doing well with her lessons, or when Misato recently complimented her on her grades. Of the way people responded to her continued acts as the Silver Surfer. I...I want to know more. To feel more. To be able to enjoy my life in ways I've never been able to before.
And in addition to this personal reason for wanting to go, Rei had a practical one as well. She wanted to become better able to communicate with people, to deal with them on a daily basis, rather than keeping the world at bay as she had for so many years. And while she was still uncertain about her ability to relate to people in a social setting, the albino knew that it would be a good idea to broaden her skills in that regard. And one of the things she had learned as 1st Child of NERV was that no amount of training was a substitute for real world experience. And if such day trips with shopping and movies were a normal thing for girls her age, then this would be an excellent opportunity for her to gain such experience.
But even as she thought this, Rei realized that there was one major problem she had to consider. For while real life experience was the best opportunity for learning in any situation, she also remembered that she had always trained for every combat situation in simulations before going onto to situations that would provide her with life experience. And while she had had gained increased experience in dealing with people since she had been given the board, Rei had absolutely no training in regards to shopping. Not for food, not for clothes. Not for anything.
Still...there might be a way for me to practice, Rei thought, narrowing her eyes in contemplation. When I get back home, I'll...
The sound of her cell phone ringing cut Rei off in mid-thought. Feeling a minor twinge of what could only be annoyance, she quickly retrieved her cell phone and flipped it open. Only for her eyes to widen somewhat when she recognized the number displayed on the screen as belonging to Commander Ikari. Not wasting a moment, she pressed the answer button and placed the phone to her head. "Yes, Commander?"
"Rei, there's a situation I need to discuss with you," Gendo told her, not wasting words. "Come to my office immediately." A moment later, a loud clicking was heard, followed by the buzzing that signified that the call had ended.
Flipping the phone closed, Rei studied it for a moment before altering course, making her way towards the nearest entrance to the Geofront. Feeling an edge of fear as she considered the possibility that Gendo had learned at last who the Silver Surfer was.
But...so far, there has been no sign of this, Rei reminded herself, not liking the sensation of fear at all. It felt as if something unpleasant was slithering about in the region of her stomach. Gendo has not done anything to indicate that he is aware of my other identity.
But even as Rei thought this, she knew that Commander Ikari was an expert at both reading and concealing emotions. Still...there is a danger, she frowned unhappily, considering the possibility of sending a shadow to confront Gendo. A possibility she quickly negated. No. If he's summoned me to subject me to more testing, than there's a danger that such tests could reveal a shadow's true nature.
As Rei arrived at the Geofront entrance, swiping her card through the reader, she considered the matter further. If Gendo has proof I am the Silver Surfer, then this is likely a trap. But at the same time, I cannot assume that is the case, and risk disclosure by sending a shadow, she decided. Perhaps...I should summon the board and have it close by? In case I have been discovered?
After a moment's consideration, Rei nodded to herself, deciding that this was likely her best option. And made her way to the tram that would then take her to NERV.
"Commander Ikari?"
Gendo involuntarily frowned at the sound of his secretary's voice. It had become a herald of bad news in recent times, and that was something that he could well do without. Especially after the numerous disasters that had plagued him lately. But despite his annoyance, he pressed the button on his desk that would allow her to hear his voice. "Yes?"
"Pilot Ayanami is here, sir," his secretary immediately responded.
"I see," Gendo replied, taking heart that this latest matter was business of his own arranging, and not another unexpected arrival. Not another monkey wrench that was about to be merrily flung into the delicate works of his severely hindered scenario. "Send her in."
Taking a moment to rein in his emotions, Gendo sat back and steepled his fingers before the fool woman replied, "Yes, sir."
A moment later, the doors to Gendo's office parted, revealing the masterpiece of his project to blend human and Angelic DNA. A tool that said nothing, did nothing until the Commander instructed her, "Come in, Rei."
"Yes, sir," Rei answered before starting towards him. With Gendo watching every step she took, every nuance her movement had, any indication of emotional reaction. Anything that would indicate that her dedication to the purpose for which she had been created might be flagging in any way. That his control over her was slipping.
As Rei came to stand before Gendo, silent and still as a robot at rest, the Commander of NERV hesitated before asking, "Rei...how are you enjoying your new home?"
Confusion flickered across Rei's features. A slight, almost unnoticeable furrowing of her brows, a narrowing of her eyes before she asked, "Sir?"
"Your new home. The one Captain Katsuragi went to so much trouble to arrange for you," Gendo explained, already displeased with what he was seeing. She was confused by the question, that much was to be expected, but her reaction to that confusion was troubling. He would have expected for her to say something along the lines of 'I do not understand the question, sir', simply because she was not meant to feel joy. To even know what it meant to experience it. By simply saying 'sir', being confused as to why he would ask such a question, she had already given away that she understood the question, making it clear that she had already been tainted by the meddling of others. "How are you enjoying it?"
This time, Rei pressed her lips together, looking more like she should before replying, "It is...sufficient for my needs, sir."
On one level, this was the kind of answer Gendo would have expected from Rei. But her words seemed forced to a degree. She was being careful about how she spoke. "Then there have been no difficulties for you as of late?"
"No, sir," Rei answered, her voice completely neutral this time. She was speaking honestly.
"Good," Gendo told her, still wanting to get a better idea as to how much this Rei had been damaged. "Then why don't we get down to the reason for which I called you here?" The albino didn't say anything, just stood there waiting, as was to be expected of her. "As you are already aware, much has happened recently. A great deal that no one here at NERV could have predicted."
Rei said nothing. Didn't ask, 'Even you, sir?', or some other rhetorical qualifier. A sign that she accepted his word as absolute.
"The appearance of these superwomen, the Silver Surfer's inexplicable knowledge of Adam," Gendo spoke, acting as if he were casually listing petty annoyances. All the while keeping a close watch on Rei's reaction. "And then there's Adam's destruction, and the effect it seems to have had on the Angels."
Again, Rei didn't say anything. There was a slight tremor in her body, but nothing truly condemning. "The Committee is asking a lot of questions, and so far, I've been able to keep them from causing too many problems. And while the capture of a live Angel has helped, we can't afford to suffer any further problems," Gendo went on, readying to deliver a crucial blow. "Meaning that we must make certain that NERV suffers no dissension in its ranks. Is that understood?"
"Yes, sir," Rei answered, her voice holding the tiniest tremor to it.
Gendo frowned, for again, this was not a condemning display of emotion in and of itself. Perhaps a simple reaction on Rei's part to the possibility that she was being replaced. "I'm speaking, of course, of Captain's Katsuragi's recent...insurrection," he explained, keeping his eyes focused on his creation. "Because of some misplaced sense of what is right, she came in here and openly challenged my authority." Waiting for Rei to say something, and ultimately a bit more satisfied when she did not, Gendo sat back and continued. "Normally, I would terminate her in one way or another, but she is...uncommonly qualified for her position, and would be difficult to replace. That, coupled with the current scrutiny by SEELE, makes terminating her unadvisable at this time."
When Rei failed to react to this, something that made Gendo a touch more certain as to her loyalties, he went on to explain, "However, I cannot ignore her little act of rebellion. To do so would be to embolden other people to defy me. And that is something I cannot allow." It was then that Gendo leaned in and focused his gaze on his creation. "And that, Rei, brings me to why I summoned you."
Noting the way the albino's body tensed up ever so slightly, Gendo proceeded to explain, "You presently live with Captain Katsuragi. And I'm sure she talks about a great deal with you. Her, and the 3rd Child." He hesitated, giving Rei a chance to speak before asking, "Is that correct?"
"Yes, sir," Rei immediately answered.
Reassured that this Rei was perhaps not as ruined as he had worried, Gendo continued. "Therefore, I want you to monitor their actions and conversations to the best of your ability. Be on the alert for anything that would indicate that they intend...further defiance."
"Yes, sir," Rei answered. Not asking why he was asking her to do so instead of relying on Section 2. Just a clean, crisp, 'yes, sir'.
"Now, I want to be kept apprised of anything that would indicate any sort of rebellion on their parts," Gendo went on, narrowing his eyes at his creation. "I want to be ready to make an example of them, if I have to." Allowing the corner of his lip to curl up, the Commander of NERV leaned in closer. "I will not tolerate any disobedience. Not for any reason. Is that clear?"
"Yes, sir," Rei again replied.
Nodding, Gendo quickly considered the situation. While it was obvious that Rei had been compromised to a degree by her interactions with others, she still had an appropriate respect for his power and authority, and a fear of being replaced. Things that would serve to keep her in line until the time came to dispose of her and activate a new Rei Ayanami. And when the time for that comes... Gendo thought, imagining the looks of horror and disgust on the faces of the 3rd Child and Captain Katsuragi when they discovered the true nature of the creature they had gone out of their way to bring into their home.
This thought soothing much of the annoyance Gendo felt, he then sat back and continued. "Good. In the meantime, I'll be in contact with the Third Branch. See if there is any way of generating a duplicate of Adam, so the scenario can proceed," he threw in, making certain that Rei would get no delusions. Nothing to lead her even further astray from the path he had set out for her.
She was his. She existed for a purpose. And he would not allow her to forsake that purpose. And as for Adam... Gendo thought, recalling his conversation Fuyutsuki. In which the old professor had decried his former student's plans as now being impossible. You were wrong, sensei. I will find a way to make my visions reality. I can replace Rei; I will learn a way to replace Adam. And then Yui and I will be together...forever.
With this in mind, Gendo looked away from the creature he was already intent on replacing. "You are dismissed."
"Yes, sir," Rei answered before turning to take her leave. Acting exactly as she should as she left Gendo's office behind.
The winds were thick and heavy as they bore the weight of a single human girl upon them, carrying her towards her destiny. Her pure-white eyes scanning the dark skies, Storm followed the course set for her, searching for her destination. Searching, yet seeing nothing but an empty wasteland below her.
Tabris, are you certain that I'm going in the right direction? Storm wondered, unhappy with her current mission. A part of her hoping that she failed to find her destination. I've been flying for hours, but I haven't seen anything yet!
You will soon, Tabris assured her. The headquarters of NERV's American branch should be just a few miles ahead, beyond those mountains.
Storm frowned at this response, eyeing the mountains mentioned. The night had already been a long one for her; despite the use of a jet stream to speed her flight, it had still been a long flight fromJapantoAmerica, and a tiring one as well. Despite the fact that her Angelic side was strengthening, even as her human side slowly faded away, the power Storm had received from her brother had limitations, and her strength was ebbing. Making her situation worse was that her human life placed a limit on how long she could stay away fromJapan.
If my mother wakes up before I get back, I'll never be able to explain where I was! Storm thought, the image of the woman who was her mother as Mayumi Yamagishi appearing in her mind. I'll be lucky if I don't get grounded for life!
It must be a very interesting situation, having a mother to worry about, Tabris noted, resulting in Storm kicking herself for accidentally projecting her thoughts. Still, Ramiel, you must proceed. The fate of both races hangs in the balance. You mustn't allow anything to stand in your way.
Taking in a determined breath, Storm nodded. I know, and I won't, she responded as the winds carried her towards the mountains. Almost touching their snowcapped peaks, feeling the white powder gust about her as her winds sent it flying away from its stony perch, the wind rider, continued to look about the area…until her eyes widened in awe.
The Headquarters of NERV-America was a sprawling, factory-like complex of staggering proportions. As Mayumi, Storm had developed quite a bit of skill when it came to computers, and was something of a techno-geek at times. This part of her found the high-tech metropolis before her to as appealing as a toy and games store was to a little kid. Her eyes shifted this way and that, the weather witch not knowing where to look first.
Focus, Mayumi. You have a mission to accomplish, Storm reminded herself, dumping a mental bucket of water on herself. Her enthusiasm properly dampened, Storm carefully descended towards the massive series of buildings and testing facilities. Tabris, I have arrived. What now?
You must be careful, my sister. NERV-America has its own MAGI, as well as its own Angel Detection System. I have little doubt that you've already been detected, Tabris explained quickly. You must strike hard and fast. Take out their means of defense.
"I understand," Storm spoke aloud, evaluating the various structures before her, trying to make sense of their forms and functions, sensing the flow of electromagnetic energy throughout the many buildings. Until she finally detected the primary source of power for the huge facility, and smiled determinedly.
"Strike now…Thor's Hammer!" Storm called out, clouds billowing up above her. The fog of darkness rumbled ominously, light crackling about it before it unleashed a volley of nine thunderbolts simultaneously at the building she had targeted. The lightning slammed into the various machines linking the power plant to the rest of the city, overloading them while pouring electricity into the plant and into the many power lines. Soon, much of the huge base was left in darkness.
This won't last. NERV would never be careless to have one of their bases reliant on one power source. There have to be redundancies and backup systems in place, just in case of something like this happening! Storm realized, adjusting the flow of wind around her so that she was gently floating down to the streets below, gently guided by Tabris. I better move fast!
Once again feeling the ground beneath her feet, Storm spread her arms, summoning the power of nature once more. "Now! Ymir's Frost!" Storm commanded, spreading her arms and sending forth swirling gale of arctic cold, mixed with a healthy dosage of humidity. The combined result was the various buildings and structures around her rapidly icing over as the temperature dropped.
Her breath coming out as clouds, Storm was distracted from her work as she heard human noises of fear and dismay. Looking over her shoulder, the wind rider saw uniformed people struggling against the power of the element. And more importantly, she saw the guns they bore. Not giving the security people a chance to act, Storm sent forth another surge of frosty air, raising clouds of snow and forcing the people to shield their eyes, even as they back away.
Now, before they recover! Storm thought before searching for the door mentioned by Tabris. Quickly finding it, Storm used a gust of wind to raise her above the now-icy streets, even as she raised her AT-Field. Using the light of her soul as a battering ram, she shattered the brittle, frozen metal like it was glass.
Well done, Ramiel. Now, you must proceed to the lower depths. To the research labs. That's where they're keeping the Helmet of the Gladiator,Tabris instructed, even as Storm flew forth.
Frowning, Storm soon found that getting to where she wanted to go was going to be easier said than done. Now that she was indoors, she could no longer bring forth the full power of the elements to aide her. And while she was thinking of this, whatever backup systems NERV had installed were already switching on, and the hallway she was in was lighting up.
And where there's light, there's electricity! Storm instantly thought, looking directly at the lights, sensing the electromagnetic fields generated by the wiring. Wiring she quickly fried with a blast of lightning from her hand. Once again, the hallway fell into darkness, though she had no idea how widespread the effect would be. Nor did she have the luxury of spending enough time to black out the entire base, one piece at a time.
Summoning up a localized cyclone about her body as she flew, Storm continued to rush through the hallways, paying careful attention to every landmark, every sign, anything she could use to guide her along the way. Barely paying any attention to the security personnel who appeared to block her way, only to be shunted aside by the powerful winds that shielded her.
Tabris, are you certain I am going in the right direction? Storm wondered.
In all honesty, I am not, Tabris replied almost shyly. However, I am aware of the standing policy regarding artifacts such as the Helmet, and that it was indeed turned over to NERV-America for safekeeping and study. Thus it will likely be on the lowest level, in a secure vault.
This did not make Storm happy. Is there any way for me to detect it?
The Helmet was born of the All-Father's flesh, just as all of our brothers and sisters were. It shares the same power as we all do, Tabris explained. Though it is inactive, you should be able to sense its sleeping power when you draw close enough.
Though Tabris's instructions were far less helpful than a map leading directly to the object of her quest, Storm knew she had no alternative than to proceed. And hope that the Angel of Free Will was correct in his assumptions. So she continued onwards until she spotted an elevator shaft. Not bothering to try and summon it, the wind rider dug her fingers in between the doors, and began pushing them apart. While her strength was only marginally superior to those of humans, it was enough to pry open the doors, revealing a gaping shaft of darkness before her. Without any hesitation, Storm leapt into it, invoking her power over the air itself to control her descent.
Please, Brother, Storm thought tensely, searching with mind. Trying to detect even a spark of Angelic power. Please, continue to watch over me.
Unfazed by the rapidity with which she dropped, Storm almost closed her eyes in concentration. Waiting for a sign, a direction. Anything. Until finally...
There! Storm thought, her eyes shooting wide open as she slowed her descent. A tiny spark of power registering in her mind, so very similar to that of her brethren. Quickly orienting herself to the energy she now sensed, the weather witch halted her descent with a massive updraft before searching out the door. Forcing it open as easily as she had the last, she emerged into the new corridor…and found herself staring at least a dozen heavily armed security people.
Momentarily frozen, Storm barely had the presence of mind to spread her AT-Field in time to deflect the deadly barrage. Of course NERV would have guards in place around the Helmet and other sensitive materials! Why didn't I think of this? she cursed inwardly, watching as the bullets intended for her ricocheted off her AT-Field, some of them even returning to strike the ones who had fired upon her.
Watching sorrowfully as her aggressors fell down, crying out in agony, Storm chased the rest of them away by simply allowing lightning to crackle about her body like she was a living lightning rod. Upon seeing that whatever they were being paid simply wasn't enough to make fighting her worth their while, everyone who could move turned tail and ran.
Stepping down to the floor, Storm looked down at one of the security people. "Are you all right?"
When the man spoke, his words were incomprehensible to the superwoman. Of course. This is America. They speak mainly English here, not Japanese, Storm realized, practically kicking herself into the air for her oversight. No point in trying to ask if he has any idea where the Helmet is being kept. Guess I'll just have to keep looking by myself.
Leaving the wounded behind and hoping their injuries were not life-threatening, Storm once again employed her cyclone defense as she flew through the base, leaving a trail of fog and ice in her wake in the hopes that it would foul up any potential pursuers.
Following the spark in her mind that was the energy signature of the Helmet, Storm passed by the various labs and research areas that were increasingly commonplace to the facility. Occasionally, she met with resistance, but between her AT-Field and the wind that spun and howled about her body, she was able to pass through every obstacle completely unscathed. Until she came to her destination.
The feeling of power looming bright as the sun within her mind, Storm looked from the security people that had been the final living barrier before to the massive, steel vault that stood between her and her goal.
Of course it's behind the biggest door in the entire base, Storm thought wearily even as she dealt with the guards with a single surge of electricity. It was like a scene out of every cornball spy movie or sci-fi flick the wind rider had ever seen. Making matters worse was the fact that she wasn't entirely certain how she was going get through to her goal. Frosting over the door might not make it vulnerable enough to shatter, and electricity would just be absorbed by the metal and conducted elsewhere. She might fry the machines that moved the door, but that wouldn't do anything to open it.
That was when Storm thought of another possibility. A door that did not move was as useless to her as it was to the masters of this base. The only thing was, they were the ones who held the key that would open it for them. In all likelihood, some keycard or password or something of that nature. Something designed expressly for this particular door, and certainly not something that any of the security people would have on hand. But that did not mean that the lock could not be jimmied open.
Moving to what had to be the control panel for the door, Storm gingerly placed her hand upon it, trying to feel the electromagnetic lines that marked the circuit paths to the machines that open the door for her. Then, as carefully as she could, she began sending small jolts of electricity flowing through the panel. If I can just find the right wires…activate the machinery… she thought, her eyes narrowed in concentration. Desperately trying not to think of the security reinforcements that would undoubtedly be coming. That every second she spent down there gave surface troops that much longer to ready themselves for when she finally tried to escape. Of how her mother might wake up and decide to peak in her room, only to find a bunch of cleverly arranged pillows instead of a girl in her bed…
The sound of hydraulics moving was what shook Storm from her thoughts. A relieved grin splitting her face, the weather witch saw the door begin to slide open. The massive door creaked and groaned as it slid open, betraying its size and weight as Storm slid through, not even waiting for it to completely open.
The moment she was through the door, Storm was confronted by various objects and artifacts related to Adam and Lilith. Shards of metal that made her tremble with fear, genetic samples…and in the center of it all, the object that she had traversed an entire ocean to obtain.
Her heart pounding with excitement, Storm strode to the pillar that bore the Helmet, the simple glass case it was contained in no match for her brass-plated fist. As the shards of glass flew away from her, the wind rider slowly, reverently held up the Helmet. The material it was made of was jet black, save for long brush of purple spines running down the center of it. When worn, it would make the wearer look like he or she had a mohawk.
It's a good thing I won't be wearing it, Storm thought mirthfully, just before she summoned a massive wind and began to ride it away from that place. Already deciding that an alternate route out of the base might be in order, lest the people who ran this base had decided to leave a trap along the way she had already came.
With that thought, Storm began searching for another elevator shaft, moving through the vast, labyrinthine complex as quickly as the winds would carry. When she realized something was very wrong.
Where are the security people? Storm found herself wondering. Ever since she had left the vault behind her, she had not seen any sign of more aggressors. And while part of her was tempted to hope that they had decided she just wasn't worth the trouble fight, she decided that was very unlikely. Not when she held an object of such value as the Helmet. Tabris? What is happening?
Be careful, sister, Tabris advised. Given the failure of their security people, whoever is in charge of that base may have decided to use Bakelite against you.
Bakelite? Storm wondered.
A form of polymer. The kind employed by NERV begins as a red liquid, but quickly hardens when exposed to heat, Tabris explained. Once hardened, it is strong enough to restrain an Evangelion.
Oh, Storm thought unhappily, looking at the various nozzles situated along the hallways. Nozzles she had assumed to be part of some manner of fire extinguishing system, only to take on a more suspicious role in her eye. I just hope that luck is with me today.
As it happened, luck was indeed with Storm. The bad kind.
She did not know how long she had been out of contact with the Angel of Free Will, how long since she had heard his warning. But as Storm continued to search for a different exit, an ominous hissing sound reached her ears, and her heart sank…just before a red fluid spewed out from the nozzles, flying in every direction.
Automatically spreading her AT-Field, Storm was able to prevent any of the crimson fluid from touching her body, but that didn't stop the Bakelite from flowing, from rising up around her. And if it hardened, she would be still be trapped.
So I better make sure it doesn't harden! Storm thought fiercely, causing the temperatures of the hall to plummet into the freezing range even as she rose out of the partially formed bubble and continued onward. The freezing cold and her AT-Field nullifying the danger the Bakelite represented.
Sighing inwardly, Storm couldn't help but feel her patience waning rapidly. I am definitely going to get grounded for this! she thought unhappily. I just hope this Helmet is worth all the trouble I'm going through for it! Maybe I should have just gone back the way I came in and hoped they didn't have an N2 waiting for me when I got there!
Knowing that time was her enemy now more than ever, Storm quickened her pace, searching for an elevator, an escalator, only realizing now how much she had been relying on the power of the Helmet to guide her to it. Without such a beacon, the place she was in now became in an incomprehensible maze of halls and labs and doorways.
Just as she was about to lose hope of ever finding her way out, Storm blasted her way through another set of doors…only to have her eyes widen at the sight of a giant standing before her. The superwoman flew out onto a catwalk, and was immediately surrounded by technicians and scientists speaking their native tongue as they looked at her. Some backed away in fear of the winds that still encircled her, while others looked at her in fascination.
As for Storm, her eyes were solely upon the massive entity, of which she could only see from the chest up. Even as she looked, she could see that giant she was studying was incomplete. Much of its white armor was incomplete, and as she drew closer to the edge, she could see that one of its arms was missing. Yet, despite all of this, its resemblance to the true form of the All-Father was unmistakable to one who carried the blood of his children.
Of course. Tabris told me that NERV was constructing Evangelion Unit 04 here. This must be it, Storm realized. Then, looking up above the unfinished Eva, she found herself smiling. And if they have an Eva in here…then there must be a way for it to leave this place!
A quick check of the ceiling was all Storm needed to find what could only be an exit. A massive, sliding door situated to the far side of the massive construction hanger. And while she knew that it would not open automatically, she was certain that she could jimmy this lock as well.
Rising up on the winds, Storm flew towards the door, examining the various machines. Fortunately, unlike the vault she had encountered before, the mechanisms that controlled the door were exposed and easy to find. So it was easy for her to send just enough of a charge to activate them, causing the monstrous hanger doors to slide apart. Allowing the weather witch rider to slip back into the night sky, into the gentle embrace nature's winds.
I can't believe I actually made it! Storm thought, utterly relieved as she flew away from the massive complex, the Helmet of the Gladiator still in hand. Then a more serious expression crossed her face. Now, all I have to do is get back home before Mom finds out I've been sneaking around all night and kills me for it!
As much as Rei wanted to focus on her training, she was finding it extremely difficult to do so. For while a day had passed since Gendo had called her to his office, the things he had said to her had stayed with her, his words losing none of their strength.
Words caused something inside her to flare up and burn.
Gendo was...threatening Ikari-kun and Misato, Rei thought, scowling as she continued her studies. They were able to defy him, and now he wants to punish them for it. Then she scowled that much more before adding, And he wants me to help him do it. To find something he can use against them...
As much as Rei knew that Gendo had been trying to assert his authority over her as he gave her her orders, to make it clear that she was to heed his command or be replaced, she had felt no fear of the Commander, no compulsion to obey him, none of these he normally inspired in her. Only a deep resentment that had been quick to build up into an even deeper anger. He is losing control of the overall situation, and seeks to regain it by instilling fear in the people in NERV. And in me, she thought, recalling how he had so casually reminded her of the purpose for which she had been created. He wants to keep control over me. Keep me as his tool...
Her thoughts trailing off with a mounting sense of disgust, Rei flashed back across both her lives. She had been Gendo's tool since the day she had opened her eyes in her first body. She had died as his tool at the crazed hands of Naoko Akagi. And at one time, she had been prepared to end the lives of everyone as his tool.
But not anymore.
Ikari-kun and Misato deserve to live. So do the others I've met, and many more besides them, Rei thought as she flipped a page and continued her research. I won't hurt them so the Commander can have greater control of their lives. I won't...hmm...this looks interesting...
Her thought shifting, Rei abandoned her anger at the Commander for a time as she studied the item that had caught her attention. It looks good on its own, she thought after a moment's consideration. But...will it actually work for me?
There was only one way to find out for sure. So with a thought, Rei guided the board so that it washed over her body in its entirety. When she emerged from the quicksilver artifact, she studied herself in the full length mirror she had had the board produce, and looked at the clothes she now wore. Clothes that were a perfect replication of the garments from the catalog picture she had seen.
"Hmm…this is very different," Rei commented as she turned about, examining herself this way and that, along with the pale blue gown that went down almost to her heels. Lending something almost hauntingly elegant to her. "It's not a practical garment, but I have a full range of motion. And it is visually appealing."
Nodding to herself, Rei picked up a marker and placed a checkmark beside the picture of the dress that had inspired the one she now wore before continuing to look through the catalog. One of several that were mailed to the apartment on a fairly regular basis, catalogs that the blue-haired girl had taken them into her room to study. To try and get a better grasp of the concept of fashion. To understand how clothes could alter the perceptions of those around her, and perhaps understand what some of her fellow classmates meant by bad fashions and such before she went out with Hikari and the others.
Glancing down at another dress, Rei frowned and again summoned the board. A moment later, the beautiful gown she had been wearing was gone, and in its place was a tight-fitting black dress with straps about her shoulders, and that only went down to her mid-thighs. "I...dislike this one," she soon decided as she started moving about. "It's overly tight, and makes it difficult to move my legs."
Giving a quick shake of her head, Rei summoned the board to transmute the offending garment into something else. When the board came away this time, she was wearing a far more modest outfit, consisting of a green turtleneck and sweat pants, as well as running shoes and a sweat band. When she once again looked into the mirror, Rei found herself frowning somewhat. This color…does not seem very appealing on me, she thought, though she wasn't exactly certain why. For some reason, the shade of green she now wore seemed somehow…incompatible with her. The clothes themselves are not a problem; just the color. After turning about, quickly becoming satisfied with the range of movement and overall appearance, she thought Perhaps a different color, then, would be more…appropriate.
Once again, the board slid across Rei's body, adjusting the color of her clothes. This time she tried a light shade of grey. As soon as the board had completed its task, the girl once again examined herself. The new color scheme seemed better to her, though she was still unsure as to exactly why.
Satisfied by this for now, Rei went onto another selection from a different catalogue, and used the board to try on a different ensemble. Then she went on to another selection, and kept trying different options, marking ones that seemed compatible with her body. The girl tried everything from to a leather pants and a jacket, as well as a T-shirt and gloves, to a blue swimsuit, then a dark cloak. She also tried other things, such as a white button-up coat and scarf, a red, white, and blue leotard, white lab coat and dress similar to Dr. Akagi's, an almost translucent black dress, a tennis outfit, a maid's garment, and even a red leather bikini, complete with knee-high boots and arm-length gloves and collar.
As she raised an eyebrow at this particularly bizarre look, Rei was brought back to the moment when someone was heard knocking at her door. "Rei?" came Misato's voice. "Can I come in?"
Blanching as she looked down at the hideous outfit she was wearing, as well as the mirror, Rei required a moment to recover before responding, "In a moment. I'm...not decent." Hoping this excuse she had heard used by Shinji would buy her the time she needed, the albino sent her board into action. Quickly absorbing the mirror, it then rippled over her, leaving her again in her school uniform before disappearing into her closet. "You...can come in now."
A moment later, Misato stuck her head in. "Hi! Just wanted to see how you were doing, and to let you know that dinner is almost..." The Captain than trailed off at the sight of the many catalogs that littered Rei's room. "What the...what are you...?"
"I'm conducting research." Rei then went on to explain her encounter with Hikari and Asuka, as well as how she had been invited to come along with them on their night out. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you before. I had planned to ask permission at dinner, but..."
"Hey, don't worry about it!" Misato promptly assured her. Then she leaned in and added, "And sure, you can go out with the others! It's no problem!" As Rei nodded her appreciation, the purple-haired woman scanned the albino's room. "But...that doesn't explain why you decided to grab every catalog in the place."
"As I said, I was doing research," Rei replied. "Since Horaki-chan and Pilot Sohryu indicated that they intend to purchase clothing as a part of this night out, I wanted to get a better understanding on what clothes to purchase."
"A better understanding...?" Misato repeated, only to trail off as she frowned her confusion. "What are you talking about, Rei? I mean, you must've gone shopping before...haven't you?"
Giving a small shake of her head to this, Rei answered, "Commander Ikari arranged for all of my clothing to be bought for me. He did not want me wasting my time on what he considered to be non-essentials."
"He -!" Misato started, her eyes bulging before she cut herself off and scowled. "Dammit...why am I surprised by anything he does...?" Frowning disdainfully, the purple-haired woman returned her attention to her ward. "So, Rei...you're saying that you...want to learn to shop?"
"Yes. It is a part of life I have not experienced before," Rei explained, hoping that her words made sense. "Also, I would like to be able to...fit in with Horaki-chan and the others on their night out."
Pausing to study the blue-haired girl, Misato then nodded slowly. "I think I know what you mean. You want to make up for lost time, and do things that you weren't able to before." When Rei nodded, the Captain made a peculiar expression she sometimes made when thinking. "Well, if you really want to learn a thing or three about shopping and what clothes to buy, I'd be happy to give you a lesson."
"Really?" Rei replied, feeling almost astounded by this. By the fact that Misato not only understood her feelings in this matter, but was offering to help her practice for her night out.
"Certainly!" Misato assured her. "Besides, your wardrobe isn't exactly what I'd call extensive. And I figure you having a better selection couldn't hurt." Considering this, Rei found herself agreeing that there seemed to be no harm in having a better selection of clothing. "Tell you what. How about after work tomorrow, you and I can stop by the mall and do a little shopping? I can give you a few pointers on the finer aspects of bargain hunting, as well as what and what not to buy."
"Very well," Rei agreed, not even needing to think about it. Such a trip would not interfere with her personal schedule, and it would possibly make for an excellent training session to help her prepare for her night out.
"Great!" With that, Misato grinned and gestured for Rei to follow her. "Now, c'mon! Shinji's got something delicious cooking for us, and I don't want to give it a chance to get cold!"
Nodding, Rei followed Misato to the dining area, already feeling more optimistic. Shopping with the other girls had quickly been becoming one of the most daunting prospects of her entire life. Now, however, her chances of successfully engaging in such a social endeavor seemed to be improving.
"You wanted to see me, Commander?" Kaji asked even as he approached Gendo's desk.
"I did, Mr. Kaji," Gendo returned, his eyes narrowed behind his glasses. "You see, I've just received word from the Instrumentality Committee."
"And judging from the look on your face, the word isn't good," Kaji guessed. Though Gendo had an excellent poker face, part of his job description was seeing past what was on the surface, to actually see what nasty little things were percolating in someone's mind. And while Kaji was no psychic, he was still pretty good at what he did.
Good enough to tell that Gendo was not happy. Not even slightly. And if he was showing this many signs of distress while seated behind his desk in what NERV personnel tended to refer to as 'Gendo's Lair', the very personification of his position as Commander of NERV, then things were about to get even more interesting than Kaji had anticipated.
"That is correct," Gendo agreed. "I've just been informed that the American branch of NERV was attacked. A young, costumed girl broke into the base, stole something from one of the research labs, and successfully escaped with it. Base security was powerless to stop her from causing substantial damage to the base in the process of her raid."
This took Kaji by surprise. "Who was it?" he asked, not bothering to try and cover up his curiosity. "Spirit? The Silver Surfer?"
"Neither," Gendo explained, his eyes narrowing just the tiniest amount as he steepled his fingers together in front of him. "An entirely different girl, one who generates a blue/red pattern. According to reports I've seen, she is apparently capable of manipulating atmospheric conditions, as well as electricity."
"Wow. Another superwoman, huh? Where the heck do these ladies come from, huh?" Kaji spoke mirthfully, shaking his head as he spoke.
Though Kaji had already been aware that NERV had detected a blue/red pattern in recent times, due to his own inconspicuous investigations, he wasn't in the mood to tip his hand to Gendo. Anymore then he felt the Commander of NERV was going to inform Kaji as to everything that he knew of.
Both were playing games of their own, and while they both knew that the other man had some knowledge of the other's activities, they continued to play the game of ignorance. Just another day at the office for the both of them.
"So what now? It's not like the Committee can blame this one on you," Kaji spoke, holding up his hands in emphasis. "Or do they think you've developed the ability to get to the other side of the planet and take care of all their problems in a single bound?"
Kaji's levity had all the impact he expected it would have upon Gendo. Namely, absolutely none. And isn't that too bad? the spy couldn't help but think. Life is so much better when you can laugh at your problems.
"On the contrary. The Committee is very upset," Gendo corrected, his voice terse, with something that could almost be described as fear twisting about his words. "I'm sure you have heard of the anomalous pattern detected near the previous two engagements."
"Oh, dear, let me guess. Superwoman Number Three, right?" Kaji smirked, rolling his eyes up towards the ceiling. "And when they asked you where she came from, you couldn't give them an answer they liked. Am I right?"
Gendo didn't answer right away. He simply looked at Kaji, as if trying to read him the same why the spy had done with the Commander. Kaji had little doubt that the older man was successful to some degree. They were both too skillful at these sort of games to come away completely empty in any encounter.
The only difference was, Kaji wasn't the least bit ruffled by any of the superwomen, with the possible exception of the Silver Surfer and how she had so effortlessly sent many of his own eventual plans screaming down the drain. Each of these girls represented a random element in the scenario, one that promised to not only make life more interesting, but to open possible avenues for him to exploit as well. All which meant that his own emotional barriers and disguises were better equipped to withstand deep scrutiny than the Commander's own.
"Well, I suppose things could be worse," Kaji smiled. "After all, NERV has its own live Angel to study, resulting in the Committee restoring the auxiliary budget. The UN is off our backs as well. Not to mention that the American branch is taking some heat instead of you for once."
"But just this once," Gendo returned, his face as of stone as he looked at Kaji. "This situation is quickly getting out of hand. We must find a way to track these women down, before things get even worse."
"Hmm, I suppose," Kaji spoke in his usual fashion. Still unsure of what Gendo was driving at. "Well, okay, but how do I fit into all of this?"
"Our attempts to deal with Spirit have been unsuccessful so far, and there is currently no information regarding the identities of either the Silver Surfer or this third girl," Gendo explained tersely. "However, there may be other clues to be found, both in our battle records…and elsewhere."
"Elsewhere, huh?" Kaji smiled, comprehension lighting up his features. "Ah, of course. These girls may have special powers, but they're still girls. They still go to school, they have dinner at home, they do their homework. They might even have friends that they tell all kinds of…interesting things to."
"Exactly," Gendo spoke, a hint of approval in his voice. "We need to approach this situation from another angle. Given that Spirit lives in Tokyo-3, and possibly these other two rogues as well, then it may be possible to identify them by talking to the children at school. One or more of them may have noticed some…aberration in the behavior of one of the others. And seeing as how you have direct access to one of these children…"
"Well, I guess that makes sense," Kaji admitted. "Just as you have direct access to a couple of them yourself, sir."
This comment immediately caused a few sparks of annoyance to slip out between Gendo's shields, something that caused Kaji to silently laugh. It hadn't been all that hard for him to find out what Ritsuko had been up to lately, as well as Gendo's suspicions. How her analysis of Rei Ayanami had turned up nothing out of the ordinary, when it was fairly obvious that she could not be the Silver Surfer.
Not unless she had found some way to be in two places at once, that is! Kaji joked inwardly. Though to be honest, if she could, I wouldn't be the least bit surprised! Knowing better than to give voice to this, he simply held up his hands in surrender. "Alright, sir, I'll talk with Asuka," he assured the Commander. "See if she's noticed anything about the other kids."
"Do so," Gendo spoke, his words an ill-disguised order. "And see if there might not be other ways you can get close to the children. Find out what they know." Then a more sinister smile crept onto Gendo's face. "After all…I'm certain you have plenty of time on your hands."
Yeah, I do, Kaji thought unhappily, thinking of the Section 2 creeps he had frequently had to shake, just in order to carry out even the smallest portions of his own business. And sometimes just so that he could make a run to the supermarket or use a public restroom. As if you weren't responsible for clearing my social calendar.
Ever since the day Mayumi Yamagishi had ventured to Tokyo-3, the day she had been trapped outside when her brother Ramiel had come and subsequently been killed, she had been aware that she had been changing. The instant the 5th Angel had transformed her, Mayumi had been given great powers…and terrible fear. For her transformation had not been a one-time event, but only the beginning of the eventual end of her humanity.
Every day, Angelic cells replaced human flesh, making her a little less human than she was before. With each day bringing the possibility that the price she would ultimately pay for her brother's gift would be, not her life, but the Fruit of Knowledge that all of Lilith's children had. The ability to choose, the power of free will. Making matters worse for her was that fact that, if and when that finally happened, and the Angelic collective should collapse, she would be as lost in madness as most of Adam's children were now. A mindless abomination that live only to destroy all the lived. Placing Mayumi's mother, the only family she had left, in close proximity to a potential destroyer.
This was one of the reasons Mayumi was currently grateful for one of the side effects of her Angelic transformation; reduced dependency on sleep. It gave her time to work unimpeded by weariness, and during a time when her mother was asleep.
Moving carefully about her room, dressed in nothing but a white shirt and shorts, Mayumi was quietly digging around in her dresser, bringing forth the object she had fought so hard to retrieve fromAmerica, as well as one other thing. An object she honestly wished she had someplace better to keep, if for no other reason than it deserved a more appropriate spot to be hidden than in her underwear drawer.
Setting the crystalline stone down upon the dresser, Mayumi looked into the mirror there, and caught sight of herself. A rather plain-looking girl with glasses, and a wart to the side of her mouth. A girl who looked exactly like the Mayumi Yamagishi she had been when she had met Ramiel, was every bit as dependent on her glasses in this form as that Mayumi…and was already so far removed from that Mayumi it was terrifying to think of at times.
Shaking her head, trying to momentarily free herself of her fears, Mayumi once again rifled through her dresser, and brought forth the artifact that she had fought so hard to bring back fromAmerica. Taking a moment to examine the Helmet of the Gladiator, running her hands over its smooth surface, the bespectacled girl then set it down beside the amber-like stone…at which point the Helmet began to glow softly in the darkness of her room.
At the sight of this reaction, Mayumi was almost moved to tears by the soft light, was once again heartened by the way this helped soothe the angry voices in her mind, as well as the possibility that there might once again be hope for both races. The Surfer was telling the truth. This truly is the remains of the All-Father, she once again thought, recalling what Tabris told her. How the Helmet had been born from the flesh of the All-Father, just like so many lost artifacts before and after it. And how it would only react this way in the presence of Adam…or his corpse.
Tabris, can you hear me? Mayumi sent, reaching out over the gulf of space between them.
Yes, Ramiel, I hear you, Tabris responded easily. His voice unable to hide the strain he was enduring in order to rein in the madness. We must move quickly. Despite the fact that Sandalphon was not slain by the Lilim, there is still considerable anger at his capture. Even more than I had anticipated.
I understand, Mayumi responded, feeling the tension with which the Angel spoke. What do I have to do now?
We have to revive the All-Father. To restore his body so that it can hold his soul again, Tabris explained. It is the only way to put an end to the madness that plagues us, to help soothe the rage of our brethren.
Mayumi's eyes shot wide at this. Is that even possible?
It is, but we will need help, Tabris confessed. That is one of the reasons I had you retrieve the Helmet. With it, you be able to gain a truly powerful ally. One who will be completely loyal only to you, and untouched by the madness. This will be essential, for as the chaos continues to worsen, you may be affected by it as well.
I know that, Mayumi responded, her fears returning to her. But…how can a helmet…any helmet…?
The Helmet of the Gladiator is an artifact from one of the previous wars between the Children of Adam and Lilith. It was one of the weapons the All-Father created to bolster our forces, Tabris informed her. You must awaken the Helmet. Let its power guide you to a suitable bearer.
And…how do I do that? Mayumi asked almost fearfully.
Reveal your Angelic form, sister, and direct your power into the Helmet, Tabris instructed. Once that is done, it will choose one who is best situated to help, and whose mind will readily accept the Helmet and its power.
Sighing, Mayumi couldn't help but have a difficult time accepting what Tabris told her. And yet, given the many impossible things she had already experienced, as well as the desperation she now felt, she did as she was told. Quietly returning the All-Father's body to its hiding spot, the dark-haired girl quickly made her preparations. She bundled up a blanket on her bed, so that it would look like a sleeping form should her mother peek in. Then she shed her minimal clothing before going to where she hid her costume, and quickly donned it.
When she had finally donned her costume, Mayumi went to her dresser, and set down her glasses, the world before her blurring. Then it returned to perfect clarity as her eyes became completely white, as did her hair. Her body and mind shifting somewhat as she once again took up the mantle of Storm.
Going to her window and opening it, Storm scanned the area, and saw no sign of any prying eyes. Satisfied, she quickly grabbed up the helmet before easing herself out the window. Closing it from the outside, she then summoned up the winds, allowing them to carry her into the skies about Tokyo-2.
Once she was miles away and above the dwellings of humanity, Storm held the Helmet above her head, looking at as she summoned up her power. Clouds billowed up around her, rumbling dangerously as flashes of lighting crackled about her. "Now…to give this thing a little jumpstart!" Storm declared, the full fury of nature raged about the inside of the thundercloud. Lightning leapt from one fragment of cloud to the next in a chaotic dance that grew in intensity with each passing second.
When the dance finally reached its crescendo, Storm summoned up a wind to lift the Helmet away a short distance, just before the lightning lashed out from every direction, to crash into the Angelic artifact. The Helmet then glowed with the intensity of the sun, drinking in the lighting with an ease that left Storm in awe. Bolt after bolt of raw power was absorbed, until the wind rider sensed something from the Helmet. A sensation that most reminded of her…of a heart beating for the very first time.
Allowing the localized thunderstorm to dissipate, Storm continued to watch the Helmet, which now hovered overhead completely independent of any outside power, the light that it generated pulsating rhythmically as it slowly rotated. Then it began spinning about at a greater speed, until it flashed brilliantly, shooting off into the night sky at tremendous speed.
Tabris! The Helmet! It's moving on its own power! Storm reported, barely restraining her surprise.
Follow it, Sister! Tabris urged her. You must be there when it chooses a bearer! If you are not, and the bearer accepts it, he or she will try to seek you out, and will allow nothing to stand in his or her way!
What do you mean? Storm asked, not liking the sound of this.
I'll explain, but please, you must not lose track of the Helmet! Tabris pleaded. The potential consequences could be disastrous for us all!
I - I understand! Storm returned. Despite the fact that she truly didn't understand, she was already summoning up all the power she could muster. The power of the Helmet shining brightly within her own mind, the weather witch shot after the artifact as quickly as she could. Fully aware that the object was heading straight to Tokyo-3…
"Wow, Rei! You look great!" Hikari smiled as the blue-haired girl walked before her.
Almost shyly, Rei asked, "You really think so?" She then looked down at the outfit she was now wearing. It consisted of a blue button-up shirt and white vest. She was also wearing a dark skirt with white shoes.
"What, weren't you listening?" Asuka asked with a raised eyebrow, her hands at her hips as she studied the albino. "I have to admit, Wondergirl. Your fashion sense isn't too bad."
Realizing that this was a compliment, or at least Asuka's version of one, Rei bowed her head slightly. "Thank you, Pilot Sohryu," she spoke, immediately grateful for all the time she had spent practicing in her room, as well as Misato's assistance.
Despite the somewhat carefree, even playful way Misato tended to conduct herself at home, she had been proven herself to be a disciplined officer at NERV. Where she was lax and mischievous at home, she was capable of coming up with grueling training regimens for the Eva pilots, as well as an effective practice session to prepare her for the day trip.
For three hours, Misato gave Rei an effective demonstration of the finer points of selecting clothing, on the optimal pattern with which to search the stores in order to find the best prices, what colors and clothes would be considering the most complimentary for her, as well as unusual clothing options for various occasions such as parties. It was quite possibly the most grueling form of training she had ever undergone, but Misato had been with her the entire time, smiling and even making the experience enjoyable for her. Making it that much more rewarding was the fact that the training was clearly paying off now.
"Hey! Are you three almost done?" came a giddy voice.
"Oh, wow! Rei! You look so beautiful in that!" spoke another voice, causing Rei to look to her side. There she saw the other to participants in the day trip.
"Tsubasa! Mai!" Hikari greeted, gesturing for the other two girls to come closer. Smiling, the pigtailed girl looked over the two classmates. "I see you've been busy!"
"Sure thing!" Mai answered, holding up three bags worth of purchases for the rest to see, even as Tsubasa did the same with her burden.
Giving Rei an envious look, Tsubasa looked over the garments she now wore. "Where did you find that outfit, anyway?"
"In this store," Rei answered, trying to figure out what to do next. "Would you…like for me to show you where I found the individual garments?"
"You bet I do!" Tsubasa responded eagerly. "I swear, Rei, you're gonna be knocking the guys dead in that outfit!"
This immediately caused the albino to frown. "Why would I wish to commit homicide in these clothes?" Rei asked, studying the faces of the other girls. Only to see three of them respond with expressions of confusion, only to smile and make noises associated with mirth. While Asuka rolled her eyes before looking away.
Frowning, Rei tried to figure out what exactly had caused this reaction. Then she remembered that many people used figurative terms that had very different meanings when interpreted literally. Such as 'Break a leg', or 'Pushing the envelope'. Apparently, she had just run afoul of one such phrase, and given the reactions of her classmates, Hikari, Tsubasa, and Mai had interpreted the albino's words as an attempt at humor.
Upon realizing that, Rei tried to act in a manner that would be go along with such an attempt. She smiled while shrugging, holding up her hands and showing her palms.
Hikari laughed a bit more, while Asuka simply shook her disdainfully. "Do yourself a favor, Wondergirl," the German grumbled. "Leave the jokes to people who actually know how to make them!"
"Very well," Rei replied, feeling this to be good advice. It was obvious that she still had quite a bit of learning to do in regards to such matters, and she felt it would counterproductive if failed attempts at humor only served to annoy the people around her, as it had with Asuka. Though the German was clearly not typical of standard teenage girls, Rei knew she had not trained in the use of humor, and thus was certain that she would not be able to predict what way those attempts would affect others.
With that done, Rei showed Tsubasa where she had found the garments she now wore before returning to the changing room in order to put on her school uniform. Then she went to the cashier and paid for her things, and stood with the other girls while Tsubasa procured items similar to what she had seen Rei wearing. Once this was done, the five girls went to one of the restaurants for something to eat and drink, as well as converse.
"By the way, 1st Child, I've been meaning to ask you something," Asuka started as she ate a slice of pizza.
"And that is?" Rei wondered.
"Why did you decide to move in with Misato?" Asuka wondered, her eyes narrowed as she studied the blue-haired girl.
"Misato and Ikari-kun invited me to live with them," Rei answered earnestly. "Given the conditions of my previous apartment, I...eventually decided to accept their offer."
Though Rei was still inexperienced with facial expressions, her impression of the redhead's face made her believe that Asuka was not satisfied with this response. "And that's it? That's the only reason?"
Frowning, Rei asked, "Do I need another reason to live with them?"
"I just thought it was kind of odd, that's all," Asuka commented. "After all, you're an Eva pilot. Why would you -?"
Rei didn't hear the rest of redhead's question. Before Asuka could finish speaking, her voice was drowned out within the albino's own mind as something else registered in her consciousness. A presence, a power similar to that of the Angels, yet different all the same. And so intense that she could do nothing but cringe at it, feel it as if it were a red-hot knife being stabbed into her brain. Forcing her to bring her hands to her head in a vain attempt to block it out.
"Hikari?" Mai's voice cut in, raised in concern as she looked at the pigtailed girl. Even as a quick glance revealed that Hikari was in roughly the same position as Rei, the pain on her face all too visible.
"Hey! What's with you two?" Asuka demanded, annoyance mixing with panic as the German rose.
Something's coming! Rei realized, struggling against the sudden agony. Lilith! What's happening?
An Angelic Arm. After all this time, Lilith murmured, something almost akin to fear in Lilith's voice. The Gladiator returns!
The Gladiator? Rei wondered perplexedly. Who or what is the Gladiator?
"Man, this city sure is awesome sometimes!" Kensuke said to himself, smiling contentedly as he sat outside, looking at the stars. "Incredible superwomen, cool Angel battles, some kind of conspiracy with NERV...man!"
With all the mind-blowing things that had been happening lately, some of which the otaku had actually managed to capture on film, Kensuke had felt the need to go out to his private retreat. A simple tent out amongst the fields of grass, where he would often pretend that he was an actual soldier in the military. Or at times like this, when he needed a break from the city, and just wanted to get away from it all.
Dressed in his camouflage suit, Kensuke stared up at the sky, unable to stop grinning. Unable to stop wondering what exciting thing would happen next.
That was when he caught sight of it. A brightly shining object soaring in the distant sky. One that was far too fast to be a comet or a meteor, and far too bright to be an airplane or a helicopter.
His eyes narrowing behind his glasses, Kensuke suddenly jumped to his feet, his mouth popping open. "No way…" he gasped before confusion changed to delighted awe. "Aw, man! Is that a UFO?"
Not waiting for the universe to say yes or no, Kensuke dived into his tent, and began rifling about in it. Soon he grabbed the object of his search, his ever-present camera, just before he shot back out of the tent. Turning the camera on, Kensuke looked back up into the skies, and thanked his lucky stars. Not only was the UFO still there, but it was even closer to his position.
"Wow! A real live UFO!" Kensuke smiled delightedly as he brought his camera to his eye, scanning the object that still drew closer. "This one is definitely going on the blog!"
As Kensuke continued to record the object's progress, he slowly became aware of a few things. One was that it was still moving very fast, and appeared to be getting even faster. Another was that the object appeared to be changing course, almost as if it were aimed right at him. And finally, Kensuke realized that he had fallen victim to a behavior known to occur in news cameramen. By looking at the object through the camera's lens, he mentally distanced himself from it. And the possibility that he was in very real danger.
As soon as these three facts were hit home, Kensuke lowered his camera, the rational part of his brain was telling him that running might actually be a good idea at this point. But before he could put this very good advice to use, the object he had been tracking shot down before him, resulting in a shockwave that sent him flying backwards.
Collapsing to the ground, Kensuke soon found himself groaning in pain from the sudden impact. "Oh, man! What the heck was…that…?" the otaku asked as he straightened himself out, adjusting his glasses as he sat back up. Only to realize that he was being bathed in pulsating light.
Blinking rapidly, Kensuke looked from his impromptu seat at the object hovering just a few feet in front of him. Only to his eyes bug out of their sockets like balloons, just before his jaw slammed right to the ground. He stayed this way for several seconds as his brain struggled to reboot itself into something resembling functional order. At which point, the otaku could only say one thing.
"Whoa! What is that?" Kensuke demanded of the empty air as he stood back up, staring at what appeared to be a helmet of some sort floating in the air. Despite the glow, it appeared to be made of some kind of dark material, with a series of long, purple spikes lined up along the center, running from the front to the back.
As the fact that something extremely weird was happening to him registered, Kensuke found he could only respond in one way. Quickly making sure his camera was still in hand and functional, the bespectacled boy brought it up to his eye and resumed recording. "Oh, man! Nobody will ever believe that this is -!"
Just as Kensuke was about to enthuse about how great this was, a shaft of light stabbed out from the helmet. Once again lowering his camera, the boy saw that the mysterious object was sweeping him from head to toe with the light. When the beam finally died out, the helmet then moved closer, stopping in arm's length from the otaku.
"Whoa…I do not believe this! I -!" Kensuke started, only to be once again interrupted. This time, by a massive gust of wind, one that forced the boy to bring his arms up to shield his face.
When the wind finally died out and Kensuke was able to look once more, his brain was once again jammed into neutral. This time by the appearance of a girl of about his age wearing an outfit consisting of a cape and a very revealing bikini. A fact that once again left him speechless.
"So, you are the one the Helmet has chosen," the girl spoke, her pure-white eyes taking in every detail of Kensuke's form. While the boy watched utterly dumbstruck, the girl smiled almost sadly. "I have to admit, I never would have expected someone like you."
"M-me?" Kensuke got out as the girl moved towards him, the wind whispering gently about her body. "W-w-wha…hey, who are you?"
"My name is Storm," the girl answered, never losing her smile, small as it was. "And you?"
"Me? Uh…I'm Kensuke. Kensuke Aida!" the otaku returned, still in awe of what was happening. Then he gestured at the object that still hovered before him. "Is…this yours?"
"Not anymore," Storm answered, her face darkening somewhat. She then covered up this expression by smiling more broadly. "As I said, the Helmet has chosen you to be its bearer. That means that it belongs to you."
Of all the things that Kensuke could have imagined the girl saying, this was quite possibly the last thing that would have appeared on that list. "Wait! Are you serious?"
"I'm very serious," Storm answered, pointing to the helmet. "Could you…please put it on?"
"Put it on?" Kensuke repeated, looking from the girl the helmet and back again in quick succession. Then he gave the girl an incredulous look. "What is this? Some kind of joke?"
"It's no joke!" Storm all but shouted, her face hardening into granite, causing Kensuke to jump backwards.
Seeming to realize the harshness with which she had spoken, Storm leaned her head back and closed her eyes, heaving a deep breath before once again looking at the boy. "Kensuke, I'm sorry, but…this is actually very important to me," she told him in a pleading, desperate voice. "I can't really explain it, but…please…please, just put on the Helmet."
Blinking nervously, Kensuke once again looked at the helmet, before he finally reached out and took it in his hands. At once, it stopped glowing, fading into black as Kensuke studied it, tilting it this way and that before once again looking at Storm. "You just want me…to put it on?"
"That's right. Please, put it on for me. Please," Storm pleaded that much more urgently. Then she once again smiled, easing the anxiety in her eyes. "Once you do, I promise, everything will be made clear."
That was the last thing needed to break through Kensuke's reluctance. His curiosity had already been mounting about the enigmatic object, and practically being begged by a girl with an exquisite figure in a very revealing costume was the finishing touch. Her request melted through all resistance and shot straight to the hormonal teenager's heart.
"Well…okay," Kensuke finally agreed. He then raised the helmet above his head. "But I'm gonna look like such a lamer with this mohawk-thingy on it!"
"I don't think so," Storm said just as Kensuke slid the helmet into place on his head…at which point it seemed to shrink in size, until it was stuck firmly in place.
"W-what the -?" Kensuke squawked, trying to remove the helmet when his entire body seized up. His heart pounding his chest, the otaku fell to his hands and knees, breathing rapidly as he tried to figure what was happening to him. Only to cry out in a mix of pain and pleasure as he felt his muscles swelling up beneath his clothes, the color of his skin darkening before his eyes.
"Please, forgive me, Kensuke, but I don't have any choice," came Storm's pleading voice, even as his body continued to swell with impossible might, his biceps and chest exploding out of his clothes. The boy looked at the superwoman even as his glasses fell away from his growing head and shattered upon the ground, and still was able to see her clearly. He saw an expression of unimaginable sorrow, tears rolling down the superwoman's cheeks. "The Helmet of the Gladiator led me to you, someone who could be convinced to wear it. And…it just wouldn't work unless you put it on willingly. Which means that…I'm sorry! But I…I can't do this alone! The madness…!"
Even as Storm broke down completely, the transformation continued. Kensuke continued to grow taller and stronger, his flesh darkening into a deep purple, and his ears becoming pointed. But even as these physical changes ran their course, his own mind was changing as well. All fear, all confusion, all the emotions that normally ran through the mind of Kensuke Aida faded somewhat, and something else appeared. Flawless loyalty. Utter obedience. And the absolute determination to complete any order given him.
As these things fell into place, new clothes sprang into existence about Kensuke's body. A costume that was red with gold trim about his torso and dark purple about his upper legs and shoulders formed about him. Red thigh-high boots and arm-length gloves appeared, as did a cape that was red with gold trim that fluttered to the wind. A golden belt appeared about his waist, and a line of gold shaped into a broken triangle appeared on his chest.
The transformation complete, Kensuke once again looked at Storm. "You are the one who summoned my power," he said in a deep voice that was not his own.
Still crying, Storm nodded quickly. "Yes, I am. Please, stand up…Gladiator."
Doing as he was directed, Gladiator stood, towering above Storm. "From this moment on, I am your tool, milady," he declared, kneeling down before her. "Speak whatever command you may, and it will be done. This I vow."
"I know that. I know that…you have no choice but to obey me," Storm cried, her face creased with misery. Then she sucked in a deep breath before wiping her eyes with her glove. "Listen to me, Gladiator, for there is much to be done. For now, I need you to be my eyes and ears in Tokyo-3, to watch over all the activities of NERV, and report them to me."
"As you wish, milady," Gladiator responded with a polite bow of his head. "Will there be anything else?"
"Just know this. Your human self, Kensuke Aida, must not remember any of this," Storm explained. "Before you return to that form, you will take whatever steps are needed to make sure that he has no knowledge of what happened here. And that when I call upon you, you will do your best to make sure that his own life is not disturbed by your missions." The superwoman's face becoming even more sorrowful, she lowered her gaze to the ground. "It's bad enough that I've done what I've done, no matter how…necessary it is. To make him…you suffer needlessly would be cruel."
"So you will it, milady. So it will be done," Gladiator vowed, though he did not personally care what fate awaited him or his other self. His lady had given him an order, and that order would be carried out to the best of his ability. That was all that mattered to him.
"Good," Storm spoke, her voice still heavy with sadness, but holding even greater resolve. "I have to go for now. I will summon you when you are needed."
"Very well. Be safe, milady," Gladiator said. Storm nodded once, and then summoned up a wind that soon whisked her far away from the field.
As soon as she was gone, Gladiator went to work. He deleted the newly recorded videos and set the campsite back in order. As soon as he was satisfied, he allowed his body to fade away and be replaced by a small boy, complete with a camouflaged jumpsuit and glasses. Even the Helmet had disappeared completely, now a part of the boy who was sitting in the grass, looking up at the sky.
"Man, this city sure is awesome sometimes!" Kensuke grinned, complete unaware of what had just happened. "I wonder what's gonna happen next?"
"Well...that was unpleasant," Hikari grumbled as she sat back in her chair, massaging her forehead.
"Are you sure you're okay, Hikari?" Asuka asked in a voice that was one part concern, one part annoyance over this sudden black spot on their night out. "The way you were acting, I thought your head was about to explode!"
So did I, Asuka, Hikari thought wearily, still physically wearied by the incredible force that had registered in her mind. A power that was unlike that of the Angels, but dangerous, nonetheless.
Heaving a deep breath, Hikari then said aloud, "You don't have to worry about me. I'll be alright." Not giving any of the others a chance to protest this, she focused on another of their group. "What about you, Rei? Feel any better?"
"I am...recovering," Rei replied, sitting upright despite the fact that she looked like she had just been on the business end of an Angel's foot. "I...apologize if I concerned you."
"It's alright," Tsubasa reassured her. "I mean, it's not like you meant for that to happen."
"Still, that was pretty freaky," Mai chimed in, her words holding a suspicious tint to them. "You and Hikari both getting these splitting headaches, and at the exact same time?"
"Yeah, well, I wouldn't make a big deal of it," Asuka grumbled with a roll of her eyes. "It's just a big coincidence, that's all."
No, it's not, Asuka, Hikari frowned as she glanced in Rei's direction. The albino's attention currently occupied by the other two girls. It's confirmation that there's something up with her. And possibly Misato-sama, too.
When Hikari had invited Rei to join them on their night out, it had partly been because it had seemed to be the polite thing to do. After all, the 1st Child had a long history of being highly reclusive, isolating herself from everyone at school. And if she were finally coming out of her shell, was actually willing to interact with others, possibly making friends, that could only be a good thing in the class representative's mind.
But Hikari had another reason for inviting her. A very personal reason.
During the trip to the Pacific Fleet, when the Silver Surfer had revealed that Kaji was carrying the entity called Adam, Hikari had known immediately that it was an actual Angel. She had sensed the creature's presence even before setting foot on the Over the Rainbow, and when the mercurial superwoman had opened the case so that all of them could see the embryonic life form, the pigtailed girl was immediately terrified. The 1st Angel's aura of destructiveness was many times more intense than the Angels she had dealt with before and since then, and it had beckoned to her, making her feel small and helpless. Sensations that were magnified many times over when she was able to see the thing.
It had been like it had been looking at her. Demanding that she heed its will, lest it crush her underfoot like a bug. Driving Hikari to seek comfort in Toji's arms. And when the Silver Surfer had already destroyed the thing, she had felt as if it's death scream ripping apart her mind. And she had not been the only one.
Misato-sama was so certain that that thing was a real Angel, and I saw her collapse when it screamed, so I know she had to have heard it as well, Hikari thought, that moment still vivid in her mind. The same way Rei did...
She hadn't thought about right away. With everything else happening, Hikari had very nearly missed seeing it. But in the aftermath of Adam's death, she had seen Rei steadying herself, as if she had been crashing down to the deck of the ship. And while this on its own hadn't been enough to prove that the enigmatic 1st Child had also heard the devastating scream, it was enough to catch Hikari's attention.
I haven't been able to find out why or how Misato-sama heard that thing, or what kind of games NERV's been playing. But Rei...she's been here for a while. Before Misato even moved here. She's the 1st Child, so that means she was chosen to pilot even before Asuka was, Hikari thought as she scanned the albino. And now that I know she can sense Angels like I can, I'm going to have to keep a close eye on her. She might be my only way of figuring out what kind of games NERV is playing...
Author's Notes: Not much to say right now, except that I hope this chapter had plenty of surprises for you. Please, read and review! And hopefully check out a few of my other stories as well?
Commander Galos, if Rei were to do that, I think Shinji's head would just flat-out explode!
Archdruid-Sephiroth, I hope you like my little addition to Storm's list of techniques.
Mike313, while I freely admit that it is possible that I let my extremely low opinion of the Red-Haired Terror get the better of me once again, I really don't think so. In the scene from canon when Asuka finds out that she will not be going on the trip, she was very rude, referring to Misato in the third person right in front of her, implying that she didn't know how to do her job, and acting like the rules of her school didn't apply to her. And if she's willing to do all of that while standing right in front of Misato, I have to think that Asuka would be willing to say even worse behind Misato's back, so to speak.
Alright, now that that is settled, it's time for some omakes!
Omake 1
"Hmm…this is very different," Rei commented, examining herself a full length mirror produced by the board. And seeing a girl dressed in traditional biker gear, whose head was a horned skull wreathed in fire.
"However, I do not believe this power to be particularly…fitting for me," Rei finally decided, looking at her clawed hands with a definite frown. "It is far too…aggressive. Abrasive."
Deciding that being a Ghost Rider was definitely an interesting thing to experience, but not something she would want to spend any real length of time being, Rei mentally commanded the board to come forth. The mercurial artifact slowly slid over the albino, transforming her clothes and appearance. When the board came away from Rei, she was wearing a costume similar to Ritsuko's, and had four spider-arms extending from her back.
"Interesting," Rei commented, moving the arms about, testing their dexterity. "These arms are very capable, and good for the delicate handling of objects. Useful."
Deciding to come back to this look for further analysis later, Rei once again summoned the board. When it had passed over this time, the albino was once again in her normal school uniform. As the board moved away, however, her eyes flashed a darker red.
"Whoa…" Rei breathed, even as her muscles began to bulge. Gasping at the surge of power that ran through her body, she continued to look at the mirror as her skin turned a dark grey, her hair darkening and lengthening as her clothes were strained to their limits by her expanding body before being torn apart. Laughing at the sheer feeling of power she felt, Rei gleefully tore the front of her shirt off, revealing an awesome set of feminine assets, even as the her clothes were tattered and fell to the ground.
Finally, she roared, unable to restrain how wonderful she now felt. And unable to tear her eyes away from her reflection. A reflection that revealed Rei to be a nude, seven-foot tall, grey-skinned titan whose body seemed to be sculpted from solid muscle.
"Wow…" Rei gasped, looking at her outstanding figure. "Now I understand why Misato enjoys doing this so much."
Omake 2
Storm was sick in her heart and soul when she returned to Tokyo-2, having effectively stolen the freedom of another person. As she drew closer to her home, however, she was shaken from her sorrows as she saw a diminutive figure leaping about the rooftops.
"Woohoo! Whatta haul! Whatta haul!" the figure cried out, his voice that of an old man. Despite this, he moved about quickly…as he slipped into the very window Storm was heading towards.
"What the…what's going on?" Storm demanded, increasing her speed. However, before she could even get close to her home, the figure sprang from her bedroom window, cackling giddily.
"Stop that pervert!" came an outraged female voice, just one of many as Storm saw several houses light up.
"Help! He stole all my underwear!" went another voice.
An…underwear thief? Storm thought, her heart plummeting in horror as she finally reached her room. Slipping inside, she went straight to her dresser, and quickly rifled through it. Sure enough, her underwear drawer had been completely cleaned out. Every bra and panty she had owned was now gone…along with the crystallized body of Adam.
"Noooo!" Storm shrieked, utterly horrified. After everything she had done to further the All-Father's revival, the very thought of his body having been stolen by some filthy pervert who got his kicks out of stealing women's underwear was almost enough to send her screaming into the depths of madness.
Without another thought, Storm shot out of her window and was soon in hot pursuit. Tracking the signature of the All-Father, she soon spied the thief. The illumination from the streetlamps was enough to allow her to get a better view of her tormentor. A tiny old man with a bandana covering his head, like an old-fashioned burglar, complete with a sack of loot that held the remains of Adam.
"Get back here, you little thief!" Storm howled hatefully.
The little thief looked over his shoulder, smiling gleefully. "Don't worry, cutey-pie! I'll be back to play some more tomorrow!"
"You call stealing from me play?" Storm snarled, lightning crackling fiercely about her body. "I'll teach you the error of your evil ways!"
"Oh, but I like my evil ways!" the old man cackled, even as Storm loosed a massive thunderbolt towards him. A destructive blast the old man leapt over like it was the easiest thing in the world.
While Storm was left hovering in mid-air, unable to believe what had just happened, the old man twirled about to look at her, sticking his tongue out at her. "Nyeah, nyeah, nyeah-nyeah! You can't catch me!"
"Just watch me!" Storm shrieked, summoning up all the speed she could muster. Her fists raised up before her, the wind rider bore down upon the nasty old man. Just when it seemed certain she would catch him…he disappeared right before her eyes.
"Wh-what…where'd he -?" Storm gasped out. Then her eyes widened as she felt an uncomfortable pressure upon her chest. Looking down, she saw the old man, grinning happily as he groped her assets. Disgust spurring her horror to even greater heights, Storm channeled electrical power into her fist, just before she tried to smash the old man off.
To her surprise, the old man was able to leap away. "Don't worry, baby! I'll be back again tomorrow night! You'll have all kinds of time to get to know ol' Happosai!"
"You won't be going anywhere until you give back what you've stolen from me!" Storm decreed.
"Sorry to run, but I'm late for dinner as it is! Happo Fire Burst!" Happosai taunted, holding up a ball that was almost as large as he was. He then threw it at Storm, who realized just as it was about to impact that there was a lit fuse sticking out the side.
Raising her AT-Field, Storm was spared severe damage when the ball exploded into streamers of color, dazzling her and causing her to crash down upon one of the rooftops. When her eyes recovered, however, Happosai was long gone, his laughter echoing mockingly. Not even the tiny flare of energy from Adam's remains was left to guide her.
"No…not after all I've done…!" Storm cried, despair hitting her like a fist. It didn't take long for despair to turn to anger, however, as her face twisted into a snarl. "Mark my words, Happosai, I will make you suffer for this!"
(Disclaimer: I do not own Ranma ½, or anything associated with it. I have written this story solely because I enjoy writing.)
Omake 3
Seeming to realize the harshness with which she had spoken, Storm leaned her head back and closed her eyes, heaving a deep breath before once again looking at the boy. "Kensuke, I'm sorry, but…this is actually very important to me," she told him in a pleading, desperate voice. "I can't really explain it, but…please…please, just put on the Helmet."
Blinking nervously, Kensuke once again looked at the helmet, before he finally reached out and took it in his hands. At once, it stopped glowing, fading into black as Kensuke studied it, tilting it this way and that before once again looking at Storm. "You just want me…to put it on?"
"That's right. Please, put it on for me. Please," Storm pleaded that much more urgently. Then she once again smiled, easing the anxiety in her eyes. "Once you do, I promise, everything will be made clear."
That was the last thing needed to break through Kensuke's reluctance. His curiosity had already been mounting about the enigmatic object, and practically being begged by a girl with an exquisite figure in a very revealing costume was the finishing touch. Her request melted through all resistance and shot straight to the hormonal teenager's heart.
"Well…okay," Kensuke finally agreed. He then raised the helmet above his head. "But I'm gonna look like such a lamer with this mohawk-thingy on it!"
"I don't think so," Storm said just as Kensuke slid the helmet into place over his head…only for it stick just above his ears.
"Huh?" Kensuke squawked in surprise as he tried to pull the helmet down into place. "Wha...it's stuck!"
"It's what?" came a voice from off to the side. "Of all the...cuuutt!"
Wincing as one, Storm and Kensuke turned to see Orion sitting in his director's chair, massaging his forehead. "I don't believe this...we just spent I don't know how many takes getting this scene just right, and the stupid helmet doesn't even fit?"
Look at the fanfic author in sudden alarm, Kensuke let the helmet fall to the ground and babbled out, "But...I-I didn't know! It's not my fault!"
"I wasn't blaming either of you!" Orion spat out before turning to one of his aides. "Listen, go find the idiots in the prop department! I want to know which of them screwed up the dimensions on that helmet! As in right now!"
"Yes, sir!" the aide replied before darting out of sight.
As soon as the aide was gone, Orion looked at the two teens and muttered, "Alright, you two, we're gonna need some time to clear this mess up. Why don't you head for the break room? We'll let you know when we're ready again."
"Fine by me!" Kensuke grinned, clearly relieved to be off the hook. "So what do you say, May-chan? Wanna get a few donuts?"
"Not when I have to wear a costume like this!" Storm returned as she started off the set with Kensuke following a short distance behind.
Omake 4
"Well…okay," Kensuke finally agreed. He then raised the helmet above his head. "But I'm gonna look like such a lamer with this mohawk-thingy on it!"
"I don't think so," Storm said just as Kensuke slid the helmet into place on his head…at which point it seemed to shrink in size, until it was stuck firmly in place.
"W-what the -?" Kensuke squawked, trying to remove the helmet when his entire body seized up. His heart pounding his chest, the otaku fell to his hands and knees, breathing rapidly as he tried to figure what was happening to him. Only to cry out in a mix of pain and pleasure as he felt his muscles swelling up beneath his clothes, the color of his skin darkening before his eyes.
"Please, forgive me, Kensuke, but I don't have any choice," came Storm's pleading voice, even as his body continued to swell with impossible might, his biceps and chest exploding out of his clothes. The boy looked at the superwoman even as his glasses fell away from his growing head and shattered upon the ground, and still was able to see her clearly. He saw an expression of unimaginable sorrow, tears rolling down the superwoman's cheeks. "The Helmet of the Gladiator led me to you, someone who could be convinced to wear it. And…it just wouldn't work unless you put it on willingly. Which means that…I'm sorry! But I…I can't do this alone! The madness…!"
Even as Storm broke down completely, the transformation continued. Kensuke continued to grow taller and stronger, his flesh darkening into a deep purple, and his ears becoming pointed. And then...
"Whoa...check me out!" Kensuke enthused as a costume appeared about his new form. "This is...incredible!"
These words snapped Storm from her grief and guilt, returning her to the present. Enabling her to truly process the fact that her apparent servant was presently flexing his now-mountainous muscles with a look of patented astonishment. "Would you look at these muscles? I'm a hunk! A walking slab of beefcake!" the massive warrior enthused. "And this costume...totally beyond cool!"
Huh? Storm thought incredulously, her jaw plummeting to the ground and her eyes bulging as Kensuke continued to geek out over his new form. But...this wasn't supposed to happen! Tabris said that the Helmet would make him my servant!
"Wow! I feel like I could toe-to-toe with an Eva and win!" Kensuke continued, completely heedless of Storm's presence as he turned about, studying himself. Allowing her to see something strange on the back of the Helmet. "I wonder what this new body of mine can do! Other than look awesome, that is!"
What's that on the Helmet? Storm wondered as she carefully, cautiously drew closer to the transformed Kensuke. It looks like...there's something written on it!
Stepping even closer, Storm narrowed her eyes at the markings. It's in Angelic language, she soon realized. And...it looks like it says... Then her eyes practically popped out of their sockets when she processed the meaning of the words. Wha...'Free will suppression works best if used before 1500 AD'?
As Storm struggled with the realization that, for all intents and purposes, the Helmet's warranty had expired, it's new wearer turned about to look in her the face. "Aw, man! Thanks so much!" the muscle-bound Kensuke enthused as he wrapped his arms about Storm. Scooping her up off the ground like she was a feather, he then pressed her against his face and chest, still wearing an idiotic grin. "This is the absolute coolest thing that ever happened to me!"
"No...problem...!" Storm managed to sputter out, feeling as if her ribs were about to snap like kindling.
