A/N: Chapter 19 of Freezing: The Lightning girl. Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters except my own. Freezing belongs to the rightful owners.
Special thanks to the reviewers, I truly appreciate it.
Chapter 19: Sub-zero
Somewhere...
"Brr! It's really this cold even though it's already the end of May..." Kazuya shivered as he looked around. As far as the eye could see, they were in some kind of remote mountain range.
"So cold!" Lana wrapped her arms around herself to keep warm. She was probably not accustomed to the drastic temperature change.
"It seems that in May the temperature here can even go into the negatives." Satellizer commented.
"It gets in the negatives in May!?" Kazuya and Lana spoke in unison. They then cast their gaze to a massive facility unit. Walking inside they were greeted by a lot of Pandoras and their limiters from a different countries. After their battle with East Pandora, President Chiffon announced that there was a large meeting at the E-Pandora Research Facility and since most of the Pandoras were healing, she could only take a few.
"Wow!" Rana exclaimed as she took a look around the packed room. "I'm just wearing my uniform, but to wear regular clothes to a briefing is just...is it casual? Is it formal? I don't know."
"I don't think our appearance matters...grrrrrr damn cast!" Eva looked at the sling with disappointment. With little to no time to argue, Eva was given antibiotics, a sling for her broken arm and shoved into the giant helicopter along with her friends.
"Oh look! They have food, it's like a party!" Rana excitedly pointed at the tables. It looked like a buffet.
"We're a little out of place, right?" Satellizer said. "Genetics is a military facility too, and yet...this mood is a little..."
"This is kind of unexpected huh Sempai?" Kazuya smiled.
"It seems this place is much more like a civilian facility than a military one."
"Chiffon-sempai! And Elizabeth-sempai too!" They responded as they watched their president and their senior approach.
"It seems this facility just recently became under chevalier management. It certainly isn't military-ish, but isn't this kind of thing nice too?"
"However, considering this is where Genetics Pandora from around the world are meeting, this atmosphere is just beyond words." Elizabeth commented drily.
"Oh?" Chiffon lifted a hand to her mouth in thought. "You say that, but isn't everyone really fired up?"
"I'm the same as usual!" Suddenly the lights turned off and all the chatter stopped. Everyone directed their attention to the stage. The light shined on a woman standing behind the pedestal. She tapped the microphone to make sure that it worked before clearing her throat.
"Pandora conferring from across the globe, and of course you limiters. First, please allow me to extend my gratitude to all of you able to be on the front lines of the for mankind's future and existence. I am the chief researcher of the E-Pandora Project, Scarlet Ohara." There a few whispering among the guests but they continued to give her their full attention. "The official name of this project is 'Evolution Pandora Project'. Literally a project with the aim to evolving Pandora. The current Pandora system only uses women endowed with the aptitude for stigmata at birth. That is, only limited people were able to serve...No, it was something like destiny, where they didn't have the option to not serve." As she listened to Ohara's words, Eva noticed Pandoras from the United States, France, German, China, Korea and India. The sound of cheering and clapping caught her attention and she realized that the speech was over. Appreciating the standing ovation, she encouraged them to continue partying, the food and other necessities were on the house.
"Still though, why isn't Dr. Aoi the one in charge?" A voice nearby spoke and it caught Kazuya's attention. Looking to his right, he spotted two women getting food on their plates.
"I overheard Dr. Aoi talking, he was opposed to this project."
"So, they decided to cut down his opposition and move forward?"
"Yes, the rumor that after that he volunteered to go underwater to work on an opposing project surprisingly may be true."
"Um, excuse me?" Kazuya summoned the courage to approach them. "Is what you said about Dr. Aoi being opposed true?"
"And you are?" One of them asked. Rana, stealthy like a monkey, took over and introduced Kazuya. This lead to him introducing himself as Aoi Gengo's grandson.
"This is the first time I've heard of this. Aoi Gengo's grandson is a limiter? The entire family working around Nova is just..." The strange woman commented as she approached the group.
"Oh, aren't you...Number 1 of America Genetics' third years the Immortal, Roxanne Elipton?" Chiffon asked as she recognized her.
"Hi," Roxanne said in English.
"Limiter Han Shi-Jing-san too. Long time no see." Roxanne's limiter bowed his head in response.
"Out of all Genetics, she is number 2 of the top 5 third years. The Immortal Roxanne and the Monster Chiffon." All around Pandoras and limiters alike were whispering amongst one another.
"Sorry I didn't write, Chiffon Fairchild." Roxanne smiled.
"Yes, it has been 2 years since the last World Assembly." Chiffon replied.
"More importantly..." Roxanne turned her gaze to the younger guest. "You are Dr. Aoi's grandson?"
"Yes! I am Aoi Kazuya." He responded politely.
"That's harsh...I wonder if truly everyone in the family is burdened with the fate of battle. However, it is because you are Aoi Family that I respect you. And Aoi Gengo too...and even Aoi Kazuha, who gave her own life for humanity's sake."
"Thank you very much." He said, feeling grateful for those kind words.
"Who is that nervous girl next to you? Oh and that brat?" She just noticed Satellizer fidgeting next to her limiter and Eva who stiffened at the term brat.
"Its been long awaited, so I'll introduce her." Chiffon took over and started to introduce her group. "From West Genetics Japan, we have Elizabeth Mably, a 3rd year and her limiter Andre Francoise. Rana Linchen, a 2nd year with her limiter Eva Frye. Lastly Satellizer El Bridget, also a 2nd year and her limiter Aoi Kazuya."
"Wow, Satellizer you say?!" Roxanne was suddenly full of excitement as she gazed at Satellizer with gleaming eyes. "Asia's rumored Untouchable Queen!? The girl famous even in America for her skill!? Even though, that Cassie Lockheart was able to manipulate the enemy, didn't you defeat her in the 10th clash?" Her mood deepened and this creepy smile slowly graced across her face. "You being called Untouchable interests me...I definitely wanted to try this if I ever met you." She latched her hands onto the Untouchable Queen's large bosom, giving them a squeeze.
She didn't...she wouldn't...Crap! The rest of the group just gaped as Satellizer uncomfortably stood there watching her breasts get fondled.
"What the?"Roxanne spluttered as she couldn't stop squeezing, a blush tainted across her face. "These are really flexible...even though they are this big, aren't they?! By any chance are they implants!?"
"Stop, Stop!" Chiffon roared as she gripped Roxanne by the front of her shirt and shook her vigorously. "What do you think you are doing!? Don't you understand the reason why she is called 'Untouchable'!? Untouchable!"
"Still, I was interested in touching them and seeing exactly how much they squished..." Roxanne quickly defended herself, totally unsure on what to do in the face of Chiffon's rage.
"Sa-Satellizer-san! She really is gentle!" Chiffon apologized for her friend quickly. "Roxanne is just stupid, so there was no ill intent...!"
"I understand..." She spoke after a few minutes.
"You do!?" Chiffon responded in shock, surely the girl had to feel some anger at being violated.
"A bit...I was just surprised." Feeling a bit self-conscious, she pulled Eva to her and wrapped her arms around her, snuggling the girl like a teddy bear.
"And this brat must be the infamous Lightning girl." Roxanne smiled, diverting her attention to Eva. "Yeah, Untouchable Queen over there isn't the only one that's famous, word spreads fast from one point to another don't you think? Nice to meet you." She extended her hand for a handshake. A devilish smirk played on Eva's lips and she reached out her own hand. Once their fingers brushed each other, a little spark ignited between them and it surprised Roxanne. She retracted her hand and shook it to relieve some of the numb feeling.
"Sorry, I love to greet my new friends a little shock." Eva smiled watching the little sparks zapping from her hand.
"So...so cute! Aren't you just the cutest?" Roxanne pulled Eva towards her and squished her against her large bosom. It surprised the young limiter so fast that she forgot to breathe, her arms flailed miserably and her face started to turn blue, despite the fact that blood was rushing to her head.
"Hey! Give me back my limiter before you suffocate her with your enormous boobs!" Rana pulled Eva out of Roxanne's grasp and wrapped her own arms around her. "There there, I won't let anyone attempt to drown you with their breast."
"Th-thanks Rana." Eva gasped as she got some air back into her lungs. "I-it was really...really difficult to breathe...in there."
"More importantly, how dare you have this many people." Roxanne lightly admonished Chiffon. "Doesn't everyone in each division ordinarily...honor their superior's rank?"
"This project's burden with humanity's destiny." Chiffon replied happily.
"But honestly I...speaking of this project, how come I'm stuck in it? Fame is nice, but turning an ordinary person into a Pandora...is it possible? Even if it's a temporary replacement, enhancing people...is human experimentation legal right now? Dr. Aoi was opposed to it until the end too. Plus there is the rumor that, that project lacked morals too. Well, before the official announcement they informally got a sponsor, I've heard that they've considerably improved their facilities." Roxanne shrugged her shoulders. "So, now after looking it over...it seems it's nothing but some disinformation." She looked behind her towards a table surrounded by a mysterious group. Everyone could feel tension rising quickly so they were on their guard immediately. There was one that caught Eva's eye and it seemed as though she was the ringleader. With long white hair with one bang colored crimson, she didn't pay any attention to what was happening around her but she opened her eyes and locked on to her. The two of them silently stared at one another, brown orbs against burgundy.
"Hey Eva, did you hear what I just said- De Arimasu?" Rana poked her partner's cheek with a finger. "Why are you staring? It's getting creepy."
"Huh? Oh sorry." She replied sheepishly before looking back at the table but the woman had vanished along with her group.
After the party...
"Uwaa~" Rana squealed as she looked around the room. "This is such an extravagant living quarters. I'm totally shocked...to think they'd have a nice room like this ready for all of us here..."
"I think this is quite rewarding. Ahhh!" Eva released a sigh as she crashed upon the bed. "This is so soft."
"I know right?" Rana slid in right beside her and wrapped an arm around her limiter. "I fell like I'm in heaven! Even the pillows are fluffy!"
"That looks cosy. Come Kazuya, we'll take the bed over there." Satellizer gripped Kazuya and led him to the vacant bed.
"Oh no you don't-De Arimasu!" Rana quickly propped herself on her elbow to scowl. "Go cuddle with Kazuya in the room next door. Unless of course..." A slick smile appeared and she snickered. "you wanna trade partners?"
"I forbid anyone near my Kazuya!" Satellizer shot back, pulling the boy into her arms. "I will defend him from your little grubby hands!"
"Who you callin' grubby hands?!"
"Okay. This arrangement should do fine right?" Kazuya said as Eva nodded her head in agreement. They got out of their partners' grasp and decided to head out. "You two can spend some more quality time together. Eva and I will use the room next door so holler if you need us."
"And before we leave..." Eva and Kazuya shared a knowing look and pulled their respected partners into a hug. "A friendly hug. Bye now!" The two of them quickly bolted out the door and disappeared, closing the door behind them.
"Well they sure know how to run fast. You must have scared them off with that angry face." Rana teased.
"It must have been your stench. When was the last time you bathed?" Satellizer shot back with an amused smile on her face.
"Umm...sorry for interrupting, but...can we come in?" A voice spoke, interrupting their little squabble. The door opened up to reveal their visitors.
"Cassie Lockheart?" Satellizer said once she realized who it was.
"Hey, long time no see Satellizer El Bridget." Cassie replied cheerily. "This is my limiter, Kyouichi. He said he wanted to meet you no matter what..." She introduced the boy as they sat around the table.
"I am Minase Kyouichi!" Kyouichi stood up abruptly and bowed. "I am truly thankful for your assistance in saving Lockheart-sempai, Satellizer El Bridget-san! Lockheart-sempai is irreplaceable to me! And you saved her life! If you wish, I, Minase Kyouichi, am prepared to offer my life to you!"
"Eh...!? I-I...didn't really...Y-you don't have to go that far..." Satellizer said, unsure on how to respond.
"Oh? Kyouichi is it really alright to offer your life to a woman other than me..." Cassie spoke in a small voice.
"N-No! I..! You'll always be number one, Sempai!"
" It was just a joke! Don't get so serious all the time~" Cassie used her hand to cover a chuckle, a blush on her face.
"Eh? Jeez Sempai, you tease me so much lately..." Kyouichi laughed lightly, a blush on his face.
"They're...totally showing off right now, aren't they?" Rana whispered, a bit annoyed at the romantic scene in front of her. Satellizer just watched them calmly with a smile on her face.
"So, why are two Pandoras sharing a room? Where are your limiters?" Cassie looked at them.
"They're in the room next door...in fact..." Rana stood up, walked to the wall and rapped her knuckles against it hard. "Hey! Eva-chan! You in there? Can you bring Kazuya-san too?" She waited a few minutes then returned to her seat and took a sip of her drink.
"What's up Rana? You called?" Eva asked as she walked in, Kazuya right behind her with a towel over his wet hair. "It was kind of inconvenient cause Kazuya was in the middle of a bath when you called. Sorry about that Kazuya, maybe I should have let you bathe first."
"It's okay. I was about done anyway. If I let you go last, you would've caught a cold." He smiled as he sat next to his partner. "Do you need anything Satella?" She shook her head but leaned over to rest her head against his shoulder. The scent of freshly squeezed flowers mixed with coconut wafted up her nose and it was pleasing her senses.
"Anyway, did you hear? We're having a mock battle tomorrow." Cassie said.
"Mock battle?" Everyone looked at her in confusion.
"Yeah. I guess there's some Pandora here who were normal people that became Pandora via the E project. Their formal name is Evolution Pandora. They said we're having a carnival tomorrow to gather data on how they compare to us."
" This project is based on...turning ordinary people into Pandora, right?" Satellizer had this disgusted look on her face.
"Why do you look so upset about it? This is a project to secure the future of humanity, isn't it? If we can help them create even better Pandora than we have now...I for one, will gladly cooperate!" Rana exclaimed happily.
"Must be nice to have such a positive personality." Satellizer commented as she brought her drink to her lips.
"You're just too negative all the time. It'll make you age faster, you know." Rana snickered as she knew she hit a sensitive spot because her comrade tightened her grip on the cup. They chatted away until it was time for them to get some rest. With Kazuya already snoring in the bed, Eva continued to stare up at the ceiling, lost in her thoughts. She felt as though something was wrong but she couldn't put her finger on it. Deciding to give it a rest, she allowed sleep to consume her.
The next morning...
Every single Pandora and their limiters assembled at this dome-shaped arena hyped up to see the mock battles. Chatter and excitement filled the air, even Scarlet Ohara watched them filter in from her seat. The operators were busy typing away at their monitors, getting the machines ready to take data.
"Wow...I'm surprised." Chiffon whistled as she looked at the battle arena below. "The Evolution Pandora look like they've come a long way. I'm so excited! I wonder how strong they are!" She giggled as if she couldn't contain herself.
"Please calm yourself." Elizabeth sighed. They watched calmly at the first and second matches, all two of them ended in the defeat of the E-Pandoras. It was interesting to say the least but the E-Pandoras only needed to win one match against the originals. As the third match drew near, Eva noticed Elizabeth slink away, probably to fight in the last match. Knowing that the final match would probably be against that white-haired girl, an idea started to formed in her head and she quickly followed.
"Why are they taking so much time to announce the third match?" Chiffon pondered, of course she wasn't the only one who thought something was wrong. Most of the Pandoras were looking at one another in confusion.
"Maybe there was a glitch...what do you think Eva?" Rana looked for her partner but couldn't find her anywhere. "Eva? Eva where did you go?"
"Bathroom?" Satellizer asked, looking around as well.
"That's so weird, she was just here a minute ago." Kazuya wondered as Chiffon looked at them with a calm expression. Movement caught her eye and Elizabeth slid back into place, as if she had never left in the first place.
"Sorry for the delay." The announcer spoke grabbing everyone's attention. "Now Match 3: The Evolution Pandora Amelia Evans and her opponent, Japan West Genetics's Eva Frye."
"EEEEEHHHHHHHH!?" Rana, Satellizer and Kazuya and probably the rest of the assembly gaped in shock. Even the E-Pandoras were at a loss, their mouths hanging open.
"You little runt!" Rana yelled out when she regained her composure, watching Eva walked out of the gate or whatever. "What the hell are you doing down there?"
"What does it look like I'm doing?"
"That isn't the place for a kid like you to play in! Leave it up to the grown ups!" That comment stirred up some chuckles from the audience.
"Be quiet!" Eva pointed at her and stomped her feet, an angry blush on her face. "I know what I'm doing! You could at least give me some moral support!"
"Well since I can't persuade you...Break a leg!"
God, remind me to punch her later. Eva sighed before walking up to the stage.
"Huh? I don't see Loveless anywhere?" Rana took a closer look. "Don't tell me...She's gonna get pulverized!"
Jeez, calm down will you? Loveless's voice appeared in her head. Squirt knows what she's doing and she can hold out pretty well on her own. In fact, maybe she's better than you Rana...in the combat department!
"I'll start to believe that when pigs fly." Rana scoffed a little loudly causing her comrades to look at her funny. "Sorry I'm just speaking my mind that's all. Hahaha!"
"What is the meaning of this?" Amelia asked, looking at Scarlet Ohara directly. "I thought this was a Pandora vs Pandora thing, why is she my opponent? She's not even a Pandora!"
"It was requested...a last minute change." came the answer. Amelia just stared silently before looking at her opponent who was in the middle of stretching her arms.
"Did I enrapture your interest?" Eva asked as she felt eyes lingering on her. "Onee-sama?"
"To call me, your opponent, as your Onee-sama is belittling me. You aren't nervous...I can tell."
"Well, I am nervous to tell the truth." She chuckled. "This is my first battle with someone as special as yourself."
"Your words of flattery will not help you in this mock battle. There will be injuries."
"Yeah, yeah, yeah." Eva brushed off with a cheeky grin, deciding to bend over and stretch her back. Feeling a satisfying pop, she rolled her neck and released a sigh. "There! Now I'm not so stiff."
"Battle start!" The announcer spoke. Amelia wasted no time in summoning her weapon, a spear or javelin.
"Ooooo! You can materialize your Volt weapon." Eva clapped her hands and whistled in approval. "Nice!"
"I took out my weapon, why haven't you?"
"You forgot already? I'm not a Pandora, I don't have a Volt weapon." Eva explained. "Now then," Planting her feet firmly on the ground she spread her arms out to the side, leaving her throat, chest and stomach vulnerable to her opponent. "Anywhere you wish."