Alright... sorry that this has taken this long.
Good News: I have a great job now. I am a Financial Advisor. I hope it will last and that I will excel at it.
Bad news: Do to the job, I will probably work odd hours for a time. That means, less time to write fics.
More Good News: I have 2 fics that I was working on before the job started. With a little work, they might be posted soon.
Now..where was I with this story... Oh yes..
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"Shinji...." Sayoko grabbed Shinji in a hug and brought his face to hers, "you're so kind..To you.I give.all joy." Sayoko then leaned in and kissed Shinji. Shinji stood there stunned for several seconds, not knowing what to do. The decision was made for him. Suddenly, both he and Sayoko were on the ground. Shinji rolled over and looked up, right into the angry face of one Asuka Langley Sohryu.
Chapter 6
Back at the apartment.
"Are you guys just going to sit there and play video games?!?" asked Hikari.
"Why not?" asked Touji.
"Yeah its not like Asuka wants to do anything with us." said Kensuke.
"But its Asuka's birthday!" shouted Hikari.
"So?"
Hikari looked over at Kaji. He, Pen Pen, and Sigel were watching the two stooges play the game. "Are you just gonna sit there?"
Kaji shrugged, "Like they said, it's not hurting anyone. Besides, Asuka's busy helping Shinji with Sayoko."
Suddenly Kaji had everyone's complete and undivided attention.
"Say that again." said Rei, "Where is Asuka?"
"Helping Shinji with Sayoko."
"Why does she need to help Shinji?" asked Touji, "What's wrong with Sayoko?"
Kaji shrugged, "I don't know. I think she might have gotten some of Misato's beer. She was acting kind of drunk."
"Drunk!?!?" shouted all 4 children.
"There is no way Sayoko-sama could get 'drunk' off of beer." said Sigel calmly, "It just is not possible."
"What do you mean she.." Kaji had begun to ask before Pen Pen interrupted with loud warking. The small bird was jumping up and down on the couch, pointing its flippers towards the TV. On the screen, a pair of very shapely legs could be seen.
"Hellooooooo.." drooled Kaji, Touji, and Kensuke.
"Warrrrrrrrrk!" added Pen Pen.
"Men.." muttered Hikari, Rei, and Sigel.
"Just what the hell kind of game is that?!?!?" shouted Hikari.
"Uhhhhhhh..Unless Solid Snake has realllllllly fine legs.." began Kensuke, "This isn't part of the game."
".not part of the game?" Hikari looked at Rei confused. Another gasp caused them to turn back. The legs were now coming OUT of the TV.
"SKULD-SAMA!!!" shouted Sigel, "The old hag is here."
In the kitchen, Skuld went pale. Misato looked at Skuld confused.
"Old Hag?" Misato asked.
"I uhh..was mad at Urd and reprogrammed Sigel to call her that." Skuld replied standing up, "I...forgot to delete it."
"WHO'S AN OLD HAG?!?!?!?!?!?" boomed a voice from the living room.
Skuld gulped and peered around the corner. "I'M SORRY! I FORGOT TO REPROGRAM HER!"
"Yeah sure.." came Urd's voice, "Look we've got bigger problems. GET OUT HERE!"
Skuld and Misato entered the living room to see Urd and Mara standing in front of the TV. Skuld pointed at Mara.
"What is she doing here!??!"
"She is part of the problem." replied Urd.
"Who are you?"
Urd looked over to see a drooling Kensuke and Touji. "Me? I'm Sayoko's very attractive and available Aunt, Urd, Goddess of the past."
"ooooo I would worship you any day..." said a drooling Kensuke.
"Hentai.." muttered Hikari, Rei, Sigel, Skuld, and Misato.
Urd smiled, "Why thank you. Now go sit on the couch."
Kensuke flew to the couch, followed by Touji, Pen Pen, and Kaji.
Misato stared at Kaji, "WHAT THE HELL DOES SHE HAVE THAT I DON'T!?!?!"
Kaji looked at Misato, then at Urd, then back to Misato. "Well...uhhh.she uhh.."
"Never mind that." Skuld walked up to Urd. "What is going on?"
Urd glanced over at Mara. "Go on..tell them."
Mara gulped, "Well.you see...It's been rather slow in hell lately. The Infernal Force has been running smoothly....sinners roasting... You know we just got a whole bunch of cultists that."
"MARA!"
"Alright alright. I was messing with the Second and Third child's relationship."
Misato's eyes narrowed. "Messing with how?"
"Well I uhhh.Stuffed the Second's locker with more love letters, sent her flowers as if I was a secret admirer, all to get the Third jealous. When that didn't work ..." Mara looked down at the floor. ".....I got Sayoko involved."
"YOU WHAT!?!?!" shouted Skuld.
"I uh..started getting the Second jealous of Sayoko. I also caused Sayoko a few ....problems so she'd be distracted."
"What problems?"
"I messed with her alarm clock..removed her homework. Things like that. And it worked too." Mara smiled, "She looked great blowing out that guys tires."
Skuld glared at Mara, "You got her suspended! I oughta..." Urd grabbed Skuld's arm before she could do anything.
"She isn't done yet." said Urd. Turning to Mara, "Go on."
"I ..well.. with the dance coming up....I saw a great opportunity for some mischief so....I made a potion."
"What kind of potion?" asked Skuld.
"A hate potion." replied Mara, "And it worked...a little too well."
"A little too well? Who'd you put it on?"
"Asuka."
"ASUKA?!?!?" everyone shouted.
"Asuka's under a spell?" asked Hikari.
"It does explain a few things." said Rei.
"Right." said Urd, "So where is she? I can fix it all right now."
Kaji cleared his throat. "She's...not here."
Misato narrowed her eyes, "Why not? This is HER party."
"Well, earlier, Sayoko seemed to be....intoxicated."
"INTOXICATED?!?!" shouted Skuld and Urd, "HOW?!?!"
"I don't know." said Kaji, "All she had was punch. No one else seemed to be reacting to it so I thought she got into Misato's beer...."
"Beer wouldn't do that..." said Skuld, "What kind of punch?"
"I brought it." said Kensuke. He got up and disappeared into the kitchen. He came back carrying a glass. "It's just regular punch."
Skuld took the glass and stared at a few seconds, then took a sip. She immediately spat it out.
"Is there soda in this?"
Kensuke nodded, "Of course."
"Oh crap." Skuld stared at Urd. Urd sighed.
"This is getting worse." Urd looked at Kaji. "Where is Sayoko?"
"With Shinji."
Misato smacked Kaji in the head. "YOU LET THE THREE OF THEM TOGETHER ALL ALONE!?!?! ARE YOU INSANE!?!?"
"What?!? What did I do?!?!"
"Asuka nearly decapitated Sayoko at the dance! That's what happened!" Misato sighed, "I hope Sayoko doesn't do anything to set Asuka off." Misato looked at Skuld. "She won't will she?"
"If she's anything like her mother when she's drunk," said Skuld, "....we had better find them....quickly."
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"'The only one you love is me'? hmmmm Shinji?"
Shinji slowly back away from his severely pissed off girlfriend.
"Asuka, t-t-this isn't what it looks like.."
Asuka glared at Shinji. "Gee it looked pretty clear to me from where I was standing. YOU LET THAT WHORE KISS YOU!"
"Oh just shut up you uptight bitch."
"WHAT DID YOU CALL ME?!?!" shouted Asuka turning towards Sayoko.
"An uptight bitch." replied Sayoko, "Would you like a definition?"
Asuka started to bring her fist back when Shinji grabbed her.
"Wait Asuka! Don't..."
"WHY ARE YOU DEFENDING HER!?!?!" shouted Asuka, "Aren't I your girlfriend!??!"
"Why would he want a bitch like you?"
"Grrrrrrrrrrr." Asuka turned back and tried to punch Sayoko again. Shinji continued to prevent her.
"Asuka! Ignore her! She's not...."
"LEMME GO!" Asuka flung Shinji off of her. He flew through the air, and landed next to a park bench, which his head slammed into, knocking him unconscious.
"YOU HURT SHINJI!" shouted Sayoko, "What kind of demon are you?!?"
"DEMON?!?!" Asuka snarled, "That's funny coming from a slut like you!"
"A SLUT?! Where do you get that idea?!?!"
"Well the way you've been throwing yourself at MY Shinji!"
"Well I wouldn't 'throw' myself at him if you would treat him better!"
"YOU ADMIT IT!! YOU ARE TRYING TO TAKE HIM! IT'S ALL YOU!!! YOU'VE TAKEN EVERYTHING AWAY FROM ME!!"
"I DID NOT! I'M JUST SAYING YOU TREAT HIM LIKE SHIT! IF ANYTHING YOU DROVE HIM AWAY!"
A thought suddenly hit Asuka.
"You know....I bet your Aunts are really proud of you..."
" ! "
"Yep...really proud." said Asuka with a smirk, "Using your goddess powers to steal away other people's men....real goddess-like.."
"....."
"I guess you take after your slutty Aunt Urd..."
"..shut-up.."
"And then there's your mother..Yeah, I bet she's real proud of her daughter..."
"Shut-up!"
".I can see it now.. Sayoko, daughter of Belldandy, First Class, Unlimited SLUT."
"SHUTUPSHUTUPSHUTUPSHUTUP!!!" shouted Sayoko.
"I keep hearing about how much you're like your mother. Does that mean that your mother was also a Slu.."
SMACK!
Asuka stumbled backwards several steps, raising her hand to her cheek. Sayoko glared at Asuka, her hand still raised.
"Don't you dare speak about my mother that way you. OMMPH!"
Sayoko doubled over as Asuka punched her in the stomach. Asuka then brought her knee up, smashing it into Sayoko's face. Sayoko fell backwards to the ground.
"Nice try Fifth Child." Asuka turned and started towards the bench where Shinji lay. Suddenly Sayoko was on her back, her arms locked around Asuka's throat trying to strangle her. Asuka grabbed the goddess's arms, trying to break the hold. Dark spots began to appear in Asuka's vision as her lungs screamed for air. Asuka was close to falling over when she noticed an object just off to the side. She turned and leaned back, driving herself and Sayoko backwards. Sayoko yelped in pain as her back was slammed hard against the tree trunk. Asuka moved a few steps away from the tree before driving Sayoko back into it. This time a loud snap was heard as Sayoko screamed in pain, releasing Asuka. Asuka fell to the ground, sucking in deep lungfulls of air. She turned to see Sayoko holding her side. Asuka stood up and, with a running start, kicked Sayoko hard in the side. Sayoko howled in pain as Asuka repeatedly kicked the goddess.
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"You sure they'd go this way?" asked Skuld.
Misato was leading Skuld and Urd towards the park.
"Well Shinji takes me to this park when I'm drunk." replied Misato, "It makes sense that he'd take her there. Are you sure it was alright to leave Mara at the apartment?"
Urd smiled, "She won't do a damn thing with Sigel there. And with Rei and Hikari holding lucky charms over her.." Urd chuckled, "She will pay for this..."
The loud scream pierced the night.
Skuld went pale. "That was..."
"Run." was Urd's response.
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Asuka slowly walked over to where the Sayoko lay holding her now broken right arm. She reached down and grabbed the front of Sayoko's shirt, pulling her to her feet. Sayoko stared glassy eyed at Asuka, who brought slowly back her fist.
"WAIT! STOP! ASUKA HOLD IT!"
Asuka turned to see Misato, Skuld, and Urd standing at the park entrance.
"Leave me alone." said Asuka, "Let me finish this."
"Urd whatever you're planning do it now." said Skuld.
Urd quickly began to chant, floating about a foot above the ground.
"Asuka, please..." Misato pleaded, "Don't do this!"
Asuka's fist hovered, just seconds from release.
Urd raised her hands, chanting loudly. Thunder echoed across the sky. Asuka's eyes suddenly flashed white. She blinked. Then blinked again.
"What the..." she muttered. Suddenly her eyes went wide as she stared at the goddess she was holding by the neck. Her fist came down.
"MEIN GOTT! SAYOKO!!!" Asuka brought Sayoko into her arms, holding her tightly. "What have I done!?!?" Tears began to fall from Asuka's eyes. "What have I done?!"
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Mara's eyes shifted from Sigel, to Rei, to Hikari, to Touji, to Kensuke, and to Kaji. Each held some form of a lucky charm. Even Pen Pen held a lucky rabbit's foot.
"You know." said Mara, "I was only doing my job..."
"Yeah...we know." said Kaji.
"It wasn't anything against them, it was just business..."
"So is this..Just business.."
Mara sighed.
The sound of the front door opening was then heard, followed by quiet mutterings. Everyone looked towards the hall.
Urd rounded the corner, maneuvering Shinji towards the living room, sitting him down in a chair.
"Move her Asuka's room." Came Misato's voice. Skuld then rounded the corner, weighted down by Sayoko who she carried on her back. Skuld immediately headed for hallway full of the bedrooms. Misato then appeared, her arms around Asuka. Asuka's eyes were red and tears still fell from them. Seeing everyone looking at her, Asuka turned her face towards the floor.
"Gee guys.." said Mara, "It's been great but..I really have to go.." She then vanished in a cloud of smoke.
"She got away." stated Rei.
"Don't worry," said Urd, "She'll get hers...I guaranty it."
"Hikari, Touji, Kensuke." said Misato, leading Asuka to a chair. Asuka continued to look at the floor. "I think you should head home."
"But..." began Hikari, looking at Asuka.
"..Someone will call you and let you know.."
"Ok..Misato.."
The three got up and left. Misato then turned and got a beer.
"Misato..." began Rei, "Are you certain you should be..."
Misato raised her hand, cutting Rei off. She then took a long sip from her beer. Kaji glanced at Urd.
"Was it that bad?"
Urd was about to reply when a sob was heard. Urd turned to see Asuka shaking as she cried. Shinji got up and knelt beside Asuka. He then wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close to him.
"It was bad.." said Urd quietly, "But it wasn't Asuka's fault."
The others quietly went into the kitchen to give Asuka and Shinji some privacy. For several moments, they remained like that. Finally, Asuka moved her arms around Shinji as well.
Once in the kitchen, Urd was pulled aside by Rei.
"How is Sayoko?"
"Skuld healed her up enough to move her here." said Urd, "She's going heal her up a bit more tonight. By morning we should be able to take her home. Full recovery is going to take some time though."
"Why?"
"Even 1st Class Goddesses have their limits.."
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Sayoko slowly returned to consciousness. As she did, she realized two things.
She was laying on something soft, like a mattress.
2. If felt like something was trying to pound it's way out of her head.
Sayoko slowly opened her eyes. 'Ouch..too bright.' She tried to lift her right arm to rub her eyes. Pain instantly flared through her arm. Sayoko let out a gasp of pain.
"mmmm Sayoko?"
Sayoko opened her eyes. She stared at the unfamiliar room, wondering where she was. She glanced to her left side and was shocked by what she saw. Asuka was sitting in a chair next to her.
"How are you?" Asuka asked softly.
Sayoko could only stare at Asuka. "You're actually talking to me?"
Asuka looked down at the floor. "Sayoko, I'm soooo sorry. The way I've treated you since the dance, last night.."
"Asuka?" Asuka looked up at Sayoko. "What happened last night?"
Asuka's eyes went wide, "You?...You don't remember?"
Sayoko shook her head, then grabbed it with her left hand. "Ow...What is going on? Why does it feel like Unit 01 is trying to bust its way out of my head?"
"I'll explain."
Asuka and Sayoko looked over to see Skuld standing in the doorway. Asuka immediately looked down at the floor. Sayoko noticed this, but looked to her Aunt to fill in the gaps.
"Asuka was under the influence of one of Mara's potions." Sayoko's jaw dropped in shock. "Mara was behind a lot of the...problems you had at school. She was trying to make Shinji and Asuka's lives miserable."
"She succeeded." Asuka said quietly.
"What happened last night?" asked Sayoko, "When did I get injured?"
Asuka seemed to sink lower in the chair. Skuld walked over and stood behind Asuka, placing her hands on Asuka's shoulders.
"What do you remember?" asked Skuld.
"I was out on the balcony in front of the apartment, avoiding Asuka. I had a talk with Kaji." Sayoko closed her eyes. "I remember something about Shinji and then waking up here."
"Well....You remember what happens when you drink soda?"
Sayoko paled, "Yes....."
"There was soda in the punch you had."
Sayoko closed her eyes and let out a sigh. "Oh no...."
"Kensuke didn't know, neither did Kaji. You got intoxicated, ended up on a late night walk with Shinji, and then apparently locked lips with him in a park...."
Sayoko turned beat red. "I didn't.....oh man..."
".....in front of Asuka."
Sayoko immediately looked at Asuka. "Asuka?"
Asuka's face was still turned downward, hidden by her hair.
"After seeing you and Shinji, and as a result of Mara's potion, Asuka went...." Skuld looked down at Asuka, "berserk. You two were involved in a pretty violent fight. We found you just before Asuka was about to finish you off."
Asuka seemed to sink lower into her chair.
"I think I'll leave you two alone now." Skuld turned and left, closing the door behind her.
Sayoko grabbed Asuka's hand with her left. "Asuka, it's not your fault. It was Mara's."
Asuka didn't look up. Her shoulders began to shake.
"Asuka?" Sayoko slowly and painfully sat up and pulled Asuka into a hug. Tears dripped down onto Sayoko as Asuka cried.
"I'm so sorry." cried Asuka, "I didn't mean to..everything I said....I didn't.."
"It's alright Asuka." Sayoko hugged Asuka tighter, "It's alright, I forgive you."
The two girls held on to each other for a longtime.
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"I still don't get how Sayoko got intoxicated." wondered Shinji.
He, Misato, Rei and Skuld were sitting in the living room. Sigel was moving around, cleaning up after the party. After the previous night, Misato had insisted on Skuld and Sayoko staying the night.
"The punch had soda in it." replied Skuld, "Sayoko gets drunk off of soda. Fortunately, she has no powers, otherwise.it could have been much worse."
Rei sighed, "She told us that in Tokyo-3. I thought we had mentioned it to Kensuke. Apparently, we were mistaken."
"Don't worry about it Rei," said Skuld, "It wasn't your fault."
"What about Asuka?" asked Shinji quietly, "Is it hers?"
Skuld remained silent for several moments. "It's not her fault either. Mara manipulated her and used a potion on her." Skuld fidgeted a bit, then continued. "I'll keep an eye on her, incase she relapses...but she should be alright, but we need to be there for her." Skuld stared down at the floor.
"What's wrong Skuld?" asked Misato.
"I should have detected Mara." said Skuld, "I've had the prior experience with her, I've seen her at work...." Skuld slumped down in the chair.
"What did happen to Mara?" asked Rei.
"That's the only bright point in this." said Skuld with a slight grin, "She's been reassigned..."
Misato, Rei, and Sayoko frowned.
"Reassigned? Where? How?" asked Misato.
Skuld smiled, "Urd has....a connection."
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Adak, Alaska, USA.
Mara sat on a rock, shivering. All around her was snow, lots and lots of snow. A few polar bears lumbered by with cubs. One of the cubs walked over and looked into Mara's face, before giving her a lick with its tongue.
"D-d-d-d-d-da-mn y-y-y-y-y-y-you U-u-u-u-u-rd-d-d-d." chattered Mara, "D-d- d-d-d-damn y-y-y-y-you a-a-a-and you-r-r-r-r-r-r-r mother-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r."
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Two weeks later.
Tokyo-2 Convention Center.
"Commander Fuyutsuki!"
Kouzou Fuyutsuki stopped and turned to see a blond women hurrying up to him. As she got closer, he smiled as he recognized her.
"Why Dr. Akagi," he said, "it has been a while. And you can drop the Commander title. I lost that when I retired."
Ritsuko smiled, "You'll always be the commander. You're more respected then Ikari."
"Yes.Ikari." Fuyutsuki frowned slightly. "I still wonder what happened to him."
"We probably will never know," said Ritsuko, " 'They' want it that way."
'They' were the goddesses. Since that day in Central Dogma, none of those who had been present had ever talked to anyone outside of NERV about the fact that the Gods did exist and that some walked the earth.
The two continued down the hallway in silence. Finally, Ritsuko spoke.
"So have you decided what you want to say?"
"I plan to talk on the past and the future." replied Fuyutsuki, "We must remember our fallen friends and co-workers. And we must continue to move toward a peaceful existence on the earth, at least those of us that are still part of the UN." He then smiled. "I hope that will please our friends in the clouds."
Ritsuko smiled, "I'm sure they will find out. All 5 children are here."
"Really? I look forward to seeing them."
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15 minutes later.
Fuyutsuki stepped back from the podium to loud applause. Hanging above him was a large banner.
"NERV REUNION 2016"
Standing by their tables were all of the surviving members of NERV. After the JSSDF had attacked, many of the NERV personal were reassigned and sent elsewhere. For the first time in over a year, they now met again to honor their fallen comrades and to renew old friendships. Fuyutsuki stepped off the platform and everyone resumed their seats. Music drifted throughout the room. Some stood up and began to dance. Fuyutsuki smiled as he watched his former subordinates enjoy themselves.
"They deserve it." said Fuyutsuki, "After everything they have been through."
"What was that Commander?"
Fuyutsuki turned to see Sayoko standing next to him.
"Fifth Child." He nodded. "How are you this evening?"
"I'm fine." Sayoko turned and looked over the crowd. "That was a wonderful speech."
"Thank you. I had hoped your Aunts would be present to hear it."
"Unfortunately, both are rather busy at the moment." said Sayoko.
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The Heavens
Urd and Skuld walked quietly towards the ridge of a small hill just outside the main city in heaven.
"Are you sure he's out here?" asked Skuld nervously.
Urd just smiled, "I double checked the information. He'll be there."
They reached the hilltop. Just beyond was a small creek with rocks, beyond that a forest.
"Thank you Urd." said Skuld quietly, "I'll handle it from here."
"If you need anything, don't hesitate to call." Urd then teleported away.
Skuld quietly walked over to the stream, sat on a rock, and waited.
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Tokyo-2 Convention Center
"They're doing it again." muttered Asuka.
Shinji followed her gaze. When he saw who she was looking at..
"NO! NO WAY!!" shouted Shinji, "NOT AGAIN!"
Asuka shrank a bit. "Sorry...I didn't mean....you don't....." Asuka took a deep breathe. "I wasn't going to ask you to do that."
Shinji calmed down. "So who were you thinking of this time?"
"Kensuke could dance with Rei, as for Sayoko...."
Kensuke looked up from where he was sitting. "Me? Dance with Rei?!"
Hikari looked over from where she was sitting next to Touji. "Why are they sitting over there anyway?"
"Me." said Asuka quietly, "When the seating arrangements were made, I was still under the demon's spell."
"Well at least you're no longer under its control."
"You think Sayoko's Aunts can get Shinji out from under the Red Demon's contr.."
Kensuke was cut off as a plate slammed into his face.
"Nice toss Shinji." said Asuka with a grin.
The strains of an old 90s song began drift from the speakers. Hikari seemed to brighten up.
"Come on Touji." She grabbed Touji and led him to the dance floor.
Shinji smiled as Touji and Hikari began to dance. He spotted Misato and Kaji out dancing as well. He glanced over at Asuka.
"Want to dance?" he asked as he offered his hand.
Asuka smiled and allowed him to lead her out to the dance floor.
(Heaven- Bryan Adams)
Oh thinkin' about all our younger years There was only you and me We were young and wild and free Now nothin' can take you away from me We've been down that road before But that's over now You keep me coming back for more
Baby you're all that I want When you're lyin' here in my arms I'm findin' it hard to believe We're in heaven And love is all that I need And I found it here in your heart It isn't too hard to see We're in heaven
"They look good together." said Rei. She and Sayoko watched the couples dance about on the floor.
"Yeah." said Sayoko, sounding depressed.
Rei glanced over at her friend. "What's wrong?"
"Just wondering, if Shinji hadn't ended up with Asuka, if I would have had a chance."
Rei stared at Sayoko slightly shocked. Sayoko glanced over at Rei.
"Hey! I'm human too! The gods aren't really that different from mortals." Sayoko turned back to follow Asuka and Shinji. "Don't worry. I'm over it. They belong together. I.."
Sayoko's voice trailed off. He goddess markings began to glow. Sayoko closed her eyes. After several moments, her markings no longer glowed, and when she opened her eyes, they were brighter then they had been in months.
"Sayoko?" Rei asked.
Sayoko smiled and opened her hand towards her water glass. The glass floated up and into her hand.
"I'm back." She said with a smile. She then turned to where her friends were dancing.
Oh once in your life you find someone Who will turn your world around Bring you up when your feelin' down Ya nothin' could change what you mean to me Oh there's lots that I could say But just hold me now Cause our love will light the way
Baby you're all that I want When you're lyin' here in my arms I'm findin' it hard to believe We're in heaven And love is all that I need And I found it here in your heart It isn't too hard to see We're in heaven
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Sentaro peddled faster down the trail. For the past 16 years (since his death) he had been biking through this forest. After traveling through it so many times, his tires had finally wore out the ground to the point a path was created. Being dead wasn't that bad. He was pleasantly surprised that he actually grew a bit, so now he appeared 21 or so. It would have really sucked to have remained 15 forever. It was depressing in that he missed a certain girl. He often wondered what might have happened had the Second Impact never occurred.
Sentaro now rapidly approached the turn just before the stream. He raced through the turn and hit the small jump he had built there. As he soared through the air, he noticed the person below him. She was dressed as a goddess, and was incredibly beautiful, and also a bit familiar. Suddenly the ground was there and Sentaro and the bike tumbled across it. That was another thing nice about being dead, you couldn't get killed....again. Still, it hurt.
"Ouch!" shouted Sentaro. As he lay on the ground, a shadow moved over and blocked the sun. He looked up to see the goddess standing over him.
"Anything hurt?" she asked.
'That voice....why does it sound so familiar.' thought Sentaro. He sat up and glanced over at the bike. "Nah, it's just scratched up a bit. It will be fine."
"Dummy. I meant you."
Sentaro stood perfectly straight. At those words a memory had stirred. He had had this exact same conversation before with.....
"Skuld?" Sentaro slowly turned and looked at the Goddess. She looked to be in her late 20s, which would match the age Skuld should be. She had long black hair and the tattoos on her face were the same. The woman blushed a bit under his scrutiny.
"Hello Sentaro." She said quietly.
Sentaro was now in shock.
"You're....you're a...you're a...." he stuttered.
"Skuld, Goddess of the Future."
Sentaro's mind was now spinning.
"Why didn't you tell me?" he asked.
Skuld looked down at the ground.
"I didn't know what you'd do, if you'd want to see me again, if you'd be afraid of me, " Skuld sniffed, "....if you'd hate me."
Sentaro looked off towards the city.
"You're sisters?"
"They're goddesses too."
"Well that explains why I keep seeing your sister Urd around here." He then turned and looked back at Skuld. "Why didn't you come tell me after I...."
"I.....was suspended. I couldn't come up here." Skuld looked down at the ground. "Then when I could, I...was scared at what you would say. And then Belldandy and Keiichi disappeared, leaving me to raise my niece." Skuld turned away from him. "I'm sorry I never told you or visited you. You hate me, I know it."
Skuld felt arms encircle her and pull her into a hug.
"I don't hate you Skuld." Sentaro said softly, "I understand how hard it was to tell me what you were. I would have had a hard time understanding before, but now, having spent time around the gods, I think I understand why." He tightened his hold on her. "I've missed you."
Skuld slowly turned so that she was looking at Sentaro. She wrapped her arms around him.
"I missed you too."
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I've been waitin' for so long For somthin' to arrive For love to come along Now our dreams are comin' true Through the good times and the bad Ya I'll be standing there by you
Baby you're all that I want When you're lyin' here in my arms I'm findin' it hard to believe We're in heaven And love is all that I need And I found it here in your heart It isn't too hard to see We're in heaven
That night, Asuka lay on her bed, thinking about the days events.
"Knock knock."
Asuka sat up and looked at her mirror. Sayoko stared back at her.
"You got your powers back." said Asuka, "I wondered how Kensuke got zapped when he looked down the front of Rei's dress."
Sayoko smiled, "He deserved it. So can I come in?"
Asuka waved her hand. Sayoko floated in and sat down next to Asuka on the bed. Both were quiet for several moments.
"So....you and Shinji seemed to be enjoying yourselves."
Asuka smiled, "Yeah..."
"Wish I could find someone like him..."
"I'm sure you do." Asuka looked at the top of her dresser. "Rei told me what you said."
".."
"I'm not mad." said Asuka softly, "Everyone wanted Shinji. I was lucky enough that he chose me."
"I know." Sayoko looked down at her hands, "My Aunt says you two have a bright future together."
"I thought your Aunt hated telling people their futures."
"She does. But I begged her, I had to know...after everything that happened....if we...stayed friends...."
"You don't need you Aunt to tell you that...."
Sayoko remained quiet. Asuka glanced over at her.
"I never did thank you for the present. How did you find it?"
"I talked my Aunt Urd into helping me." said Sayoko, "We went through thousands of pictures and recordings and other files in Yggdrasil to find it. I wanted it to be....perfect."
"It is." Asuka grabbed Sayoko in hug. "Thank you."
Both girls held each other for a long time. From the dresser, a picture stood watch. In the picture was Kyoko Zeppelin Sohryu, holding a 3 year old Asuka in her arms.
Good News: I have a great job now. I am a Financial Advisor. I hope it will last and that I will excel at it.
Bad news: Do to the job, I will probably work odd hours for a time. That means, less time to write fics.
More Good News: I have 2 fics that I was working on before the job started. With a little work, they might be posted soon.
Now..where was I with this story... Oh yes..
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"Shinji...." Sayoko grabbed Shinji in a hug and brought his face to hers, "you're so kind..To you.I give.all joy." Sayoko then leaned in and kissed Shinji. Shinji stood there stunned for several seconds, not knowing what to do. The decision was made for him. Suddenly, both he and Sayoko were on the ground. Shinji rolled over and looked up, right into the angry face of one Asuka Langley Sohryu.
Chapter 6
Back at the apartment.
"Are you guys just going to sit there and play video games?!?" asked Hikari.
"Why not?" asked Touji.
"Yeah its not like Asuka wants to do anything with us." said Kensuke.
"But its Asuka's birthday!" shouted Hikari.
"So?"
Hikari looked over at Kaji. He, Pen Pen, and Sigel were watching the two stooges play the game. "Are you just gonna sit there?"
Kaji shrugged, "Like they said, it's not hurting anyone. Besides, Asuka's busy helping Shinji with Sayoko."
Suddenly Kaji had everyone's complete and undivided attention.
"Say that again." said Rei, "Where is Asuka?"
"Helping Shinji with Sayoko."
"Why does she need to help Shinji?" asked Touji, "What's wrong with Sayoko?"
Kaji shrugged, "I don't know. I think she might have gotten some of Misato's beer. She was acting kind of drunk."
"Drunk!?!?" shouted all 4 children.
"There is no way Sayoko-sama could get 'drunk' off of beer." said Sigel calmly, "It just is not possible."
"What do you mean she.." Kaji had begun to ask before Pen Pen interrupted with loud warking. The small bird was jumping up and down on the couch, pointing its flippers towards the TV. On the screen, a pair of very shapely legs could be seen.
"Hellooooooo.." drooled Kaji, Touji, and Kensuke.
"Warrrrrrrrrk!" added Pen Pen.
"Men.." muttered Hikari, Rei, and Sigel.
"Just what the hell kind of game is that?!?!?" shouted Hikari.
"Uhhhhhhh..Unless Solid Snake has realllllllly fine legs.." began Kensuke, "This isn't part of the game."
".not part of the game?" Hikari looked at Rei confused. Another gasp caused them to turn back. The legs were now coming OUT of the TV.
"SKULD-SAMA!!!" shouted Sigel, "The old hag is here."
In the kitchen, Skuld went pale. Misato looked at Skuld confused.
"Old Hag?" Misato asked.
"I uhh..was mad at Urd and reprogrammed Sigel to call her that." Skuld replied standing up, "I...forgot to delete it."
"WHO'S AN OLD HAG?!?!?!?!?!?" boomed a voice from the living room.
Skuld gulped and peered around the corner. "I'M SORRY! I FORGOT TO REPROGRAM HER!"
"Yeah sure.." came Urd's voice, "Look we've got bigger problems. GET OUT HERE!"
Skuld and Misato entered the living room to see Urd and Mara standing in front of the TV. Skuld pointed at Mara.
"What is she doing here!??!"
"She is part of the problem." replied Urd.
"Who are you?"
Urd looked over to see a drooling Kensuke and Touji. "Me? I'm Sayoko's very attractive and available Aunt, Urd, Goddess of the past."
"ooooo I would worship you any day..." said a drooling Kensuke.
"Hentai.." muttered Hikari, Rei, Sigel, Skuld, and Misato.
Urd smiled, "Why thank you. Now go sit on the couch."
Kensuke flew to the couch, followed by Touji, Pen Pen, and Kaji.
Misato stared at Kaji, "WHAT THE HELL DOES SHE HAVE THAT I DON'T!?!?!"
Kaji looked at Misato, then at Urd, then back to Misato. "Well...uhhh.she uhh.."
"Never mind that." Skuld walked up to Urd. "What is going on?"
Urd glanced over at Mara. "Go on..tell them."
Mara gulped, "Well.you see...It's been rather slow in hell lately. The Infernal Force has been running smoothly....sinners roasting... You know we just got a whole bunch of cultists that."
"MARA!"
"Alright alright. I was messing with the Second and Third child's relationship."
Misato's eyes narrowed. "Messing with how?"
"Well I uhhh.Stuffed the Second's locker with more love letters, sent her flowers as if I was a secret admirer, all to get the Third jealous. When that didn't work ..." Mara looked down at the floor. ".....I got Sayoko involved."
"YOU WHAT!?!?!" shouted Skuld.
"I uh..started getting the Second jealous of Sayoko. I also caused Sayoko a few ....problems so she'd be distracted."
"What problems?"
"I messed with her alarm clock..removed her homework. Things like that. And it worked too." Mara smiled, "She looked great blowing out that guys tires."
Skuld glared at Mara, "You got her suspended! I oughta..." Urd grabbed Skuld's arm before she could do anything.
"She isn't done yet." said Urd. Turning to Mara, "Go on."
"I ..well.. with the dance coming up....I saw a great opportunity for some mischief so....I made a potion."
"What kind of potion?" asked Skuld.
"A hate potion." replied Mara, "And it worked...a little too well."
"A little too well? Who'd you put it on?"
"Asuka."
"ASUKA?!?!?" everyone shouted.
"Asuka's under a spell?" asked Hikari.
"It does explain a few things." said Rei.
"Right." said Urd, "So where is she? I can fix it all right now."
Kaji cleared his throat. "She's...not here."
Misato narrowed her eyes, "Why not? This is HER party."
"Well, earlier, Sayoko seemed to be....intoxicated."
"INTOXICATED?!?!" shouted Skuld and Urd, "HOW?!?!"
"I don't know." said Kaji, "All she had was punch. No one else seemed to be reacting to it so I thought she got into Misato's beer...."
"Beer wouldn't do that..." said Skuld, "What kind of punch?"
"I brought it." said Kensuke. He got up and disappeared into the kitchen. He came back carrying a glass. "It's just regular punch."
Skuld took the glass and stared at a few seconds, then took a sip. She immediately spat it out.
"Is there soda in this?"
Kensuke nodded, "Of course."
"Oh crap." Skuld stared at Urd. Urd sighed.
"This is getting worse." Urd looked at Kaji. "Where is Sayoko?"
"With Shinji."
Misato smacked Kaji in the head. "YOU LET THE THREE OF THEM TOGETHER ALL ALONE!?!?! ARE YOU INSANE!?!?"
"What?!? What did I do?!?!"
"Asuka nearly decapitated Sayoko at the dance! That's what happened!" Misato sighed, "I hope Sayoko doesn't do anything to set Asuka off." Misato looked at Skuld. "She won't will she?"
"If she's anything like her mother when she's drunk," said Skuld, "....we had better find them....quickly."
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"'The only one you love is me'? hmmmm Shinji?"
Shinji slowly back away from his severely pissed off girlfriend.
"Asuka, t-t-this isn't what it looks like.."
Asuka glared at Shinji. "Gee it looked pretty clear to me from where I was standing. YOU LET THAT WHORE KISS YOU!"
"Oh just shut up you uptight bitch."
"WHAT DID YOU CALL ME?!?!" shouted Asuka turning towards Sayoko.
"An uptight bitch." replied Sayoko, "Would you like a definition?"
Asuka started to bring her fist back when Shinji grabbed her.
"Wait Asuka! Don't..."
"WHY ARE YOU DEFENDING HER!?!?!" shouted Asuka, "Aren't I your girlfriend!??!"
"Why would he want a bitch like you?"
"Grrrrrrrrrrr." Asuka turned back and tried to punch Sayoko again. Shinji continued to prevent her.
"Asuka! Ignore her! She's not...."
"LEMME GO!" Asuka flung Shinji off of her. He flew through the air, and landed next to a park bench, which his head slammed into, knocking him unconscious.
"YOU HURT SHINJI!" shouted Sayoko, "What kind of demon are you?!?"
"DEMON?!?!" Asuka snarled, "That's funny coming from a slut like you!"
"A SLUT?! Where do you get that idea?!?!"
"Well the way you've been throwing yourself at MY Shinji!"
"Well I wouldn't 'throw' myself at him if you would treat him better!"
"YOU ADMIT IT!! YOU ARE TRYING TO TAKE HIM! IT'S ALL YOU!!! YOU'VE TAKEN EVERYTHING AWAY FROM ME!!"
"I DID NOT! I'M JUST SAYING YOU TREAT HIM LIKE SHIT! IF ANYTHING YOU DROVE HIM AWAY!"
A thought suddenly hit Asuka.
"You know....I bet your Aunts are really proud of you..."
" ! "
"Yep...really proud." said Asuka with a smirk, "Using your goddess powers to steal away other people's men....real goddess-like.."
"....."
"I guess you take after your slutty Aunt Urd..."
"..shut-up.."
"And then there's your mother..Yeah, I bet she's real proud of her daughter..."
"Shut-up!"
".I can see it now.. Sayoko, daughter of Belldandy, First Class, Unlimited SLUT."
"SHUTUPSHUTUPSHUTUPSHUTUP!!!" shouted Sayoko.
"I keep hearing about how much you're like your mother. Does that mean that your mother was also a Slu.."
SMACK!
Asuka stumbled backwards several steps, raising her hand to her cheek. Sayoko glared at Asuka, her hand still raised.
"Don't you dare speak about my mother that way you. OMMPH!"
Sayoko doubled over as Asuka punched her in the stomach. Asuka then brought her knee up, smashing it into Sayoko's face. Sayoko fell backwards to the ground.
"Nice try Fifth Child." Asuka turned and started towards the bench where Shinji lay. Suddenly Sayoko was on her back, her arms locked around Asuka's throat trying to strangle her. Asuka grabbed the goddess's arms, trying to break the hold. Dark spots began to appear in Asuka's vision as her lungs screamed for air. Asuka was close to falling over when she noticed an object just off to the side. She turned and leaned back, driving herself and Sayoko backwards. Sayoko yelped in pain as her back was slammed hard against the tree trunk. Asuka moved a few steps away from the tree before driving Sayoko back into it. This time a loud snap was heard as Sayoko screamed in pain, releasing Asuka. Asuka fell to the ground, sucking in deep lungfulls of air. She turned to see Sayoko holding her side. Asuka stood up and, with a running start, kicked Sayoko hard in the side. Sayoko howled in pain as Asuka repeatedly kicked the goddess.
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"You sure they'd go this way?" asked Skuld.
Misato was leading Skuld and Urd towards the park.
"Well Shinji takes me to this park when I'm drunk." replied Misato, "It makes sense that he'd take her there. Are you sure it was alright to leave Mara at the apartment?"
Urd smiled, "She won't do a damn thing with Sigel there. And with Rei and Hikari holding lucky charms over her.." Urd chuckled, "She will pay for this..."
The loud scream pierced the night.
Skuld went pale. "That was..."
"Run." was Urd's response.
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Asuka slowly walked over to where the Sayoko lay holding her now broken right arm. She reached down and grabbed the front of Sayoko's shirt, pulling her to her feet. Sayoko stared glassy eyed at Asuka, who brought slowly back her fist.
"WAIT! STOP! ASUKA HOLD IT!"
Asuka turned to see Misato, Skuld, and Urd standing at the park entrance.
"Leave me alone." said Asuka, "Let me finish this."
"Urd whatever you're planning do it now." said Skuld.
Urd quickly began to chant, floating about a foot above the ground.
"Asuka, please..." Misato pleaded, "Don't do this!"
Asuka's fist hovered, just seconds from release.
Urd raised her hands, chanting loudly. Thunder echoed across the sky. Asuka's eyes suddenly flashed white. She blinked. Then blinked again.
"What the..." she muttered. Suddenly her eyes went wide as she stared at the goddess she was holding by the neck. Her fist came down.
"MEIN GOTT! SAYOKO!!!" Asuka brought Sayoko into her arms, holding her tightly. "What have I done!?!?" Tears began to fall from Asuka's eyes. "What have I done?!"
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Mara's eyes shifted from Sigel, to Rei, to Hikari, to Touji, to Kensuke, and to Kaji. Each held some form of a lucky charm. Even Pen Pen held a lucky rabbit's foot.
"You know." said Mara, "I was only doing my job..."
"Yeah...we know." said Kaji.
"It wasn't anything against them, it was just business..."
"So is this..Just business.."
Mara sighed.
The sound of the front door opening was then heard, followed by quiet mutterings. Everyone looked towards the hall.
Urd rounded the corner, maneuvering Shinji towards the living room, sitting him down in a chair.
"Move her Asuka's room." Came Misato's voice. Skuld then rounded the corner, weighted down by Sayoko who she carried on her back. Skuld immediately headed for hallway full of the bedrooms. Misato then appeared, her arms around Asuka. Asuka's eyes were red and tears still fell from them. Seeing everyone looking at her, Asuka turned her face towards the floor.
"Gee guys.." said Mara, "It's been great but..I really have to go.." She then vanished in a cloud of smoke.
"She got away." stated Rei.
"Don't worry," said Urd, "She'll get hers...I guaranty it."
"Hikari, Touji, Kensuke." said Misato, leading Asuka to a chair. Asuka continued to look at the floor. "I think you should head home."
"But..." began Hikari, looking at Asuka.
"..Someone will call you and let you know.."
"Ok..Misato.."
The three got up and left. Misato then turned and got a beer.
"Misato..." began Rei, "Are you certain you should be..."
Misato raised her hand, cutting Rei off. She then took a long sip from her beer. Kaji glanced at Urd.
"Was it that bad?"
Urd was about to reply when a sob was heard. Urd turned to see Asuka shaking as she cried. Shinji got up and knelt beside Asuka. He then wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close to him.
"It was bad.." said Urd quietly, "But it wasn't Asuka's fault."
The others quietly went into the kitchen to give Asuka and Shinji some privacy. For several moments, they remained like that. Finally, Asuka moved her arms around Shinji as well.
Once in the kitchen, Urd was pulled aside by Rei.
"How is Sayoko?"
"Skuld healed her up enough to move her here." said Urd, "She's going heal her up a bit more tonight. By morning we should be able to take her home. Full recovery is going to take some time though."
"Why?"
"Even 1st Class Goddesses have their limits.."
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Sayoko slowly returned to consciousness. As she did, she realized two things.
She was laying on something soft, like a mattress.
2. If felt like something was trying to pound it's way out of her head.
Sayoko slowly opened her eyes. 'Ouch..too bright.' She tried to lift her right arm to rub her eyes. Pain instantly flared through her arm. Sayoko let out a gasp of pain.
"mmmm Sayoko?"
Sayoko opened her eyes. She stared at the unfamiliar room, wondering where she was. She glanced to her left side and was shocked by what she saw. Asuka was sitting in a chair next to her.
"How are you?" Asuka asked softly.
Sayoko could only stare at Asuka. "You're actually talking to me?"
Asuka looked down at the floor. "Sayoko, I'm soooo sorry. The way I've treated you since the dance, last night.."
"Asuka?" Asuka looked up at Sayoko. "What happened last night?"
Asuka's eyes went wide, "You?...You don't remember?"
Sayoko shook her head, then grabbed it with her left hand. "Ow...What is going on? Why does it feel like Unit 01 is trying to bust its way out of my head?"
"I'll explain."
Asuka and Sayoko looked over to see Skuld standing in the doorway. Asuka immediately looked down at the floor. Sayoko noticed this, but looked to her Aunt to fill in the gaps.
"Asuka was under the influence of one of Mara's potions." Sayoko's jaw dropped in shock. "Mara was behind a lot of the...problems you had at school. She was trying to make Shinji and Asuka's lives miserable."
"She succeeded." Asuka said quietly.
"What happened last night?" asked Sayoko, "When did I get injured?"
Asuka seemed to sink lower in the chair. Skuld walked over and stood behind Asuka, placing her hands on Asuka's shoulders.
"What do you remember?" asked Skuld.
"I was out on the balcony in front of the apartment, avoiding Asuka. I had a talk with Kaji." Sayoko closed her eyes. "I remember something about Shinji and then waking up here."
"Well....You remember what happens when you drink soda?"
Sayoko paled, "Yes....."
"There was soda in the punch you had."
Sayoko closed her eyes and let out a sigh. "Oh no...."
"Kensuke didn't know, neither did Kaji. You got intoxicated, ended up on a late night walk with Shinji, and then apparently locked lips with him in a park...."
Sayoko turned beat red. "I didn't.....oh man..."
".....in front of Asuka."
Sayoko immediately looked at Asuka. "Asuka?"
Asuka's face was still turned downward, hidden by her hair.
"After seeing you and Shinji, and as a result of Mara's potion, Asuka went...." Skuld looked down at Asuka, "berserk. You two were involved in a pretty violent fight. We found you just before Asuka was about to finish you off."
Asuka seemed to sink lower into her chair.
"I think I'll leave you two alone now." Skuld turned and left, closing the door behind her.
Sayoko grabbed Asuka's hand with her left. "Asuka, it's not your fault. It was Mara's."
Asuka didn't look up. Her shoulders began to shake.
"Asuka?" Sayoko slowly and painfully sat up and pulled Asuka into a hug. Tears dripped down onto Sayoko as Asuka cried.
"I'm so sorry." cried Asuka, "I didn't mean to..everything I said....I didn't.."
"It's alright Asuka." Sayoko hugged Asuka tighter, "It's alright, I forgive you."
The two girls held on to each other for a longtime.
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"I still don't get how Sayoko got intoxicated." wondered Shinji.
He, Misato, Rei and Skuld were sitting in the living room. Sigel was moving around, cleaning up after the party. After the previous night, Misato had insisted on Skuld and Sayoko staying the night.
"The punch had soda in it." replied Skuld, "Sayoko gets drunk off of soda. Fortunately, she has no powers, otherwise.it could have been much worse."
Rei sighed, "She told us that in Tokyo-3. I thought we had mentioned it to Kensuke. Apparently, we were mistaken."
"Don't worry about it Rei," said Skuld, "It wasn't your fault."
"What about Asuka?" asked Shinji quietly, "Is it hers?"
Skuld remained silent for several moments. "It's not her fault either. Mara manipulated her and used a potion on her." Skuld fidgeted a bit, then continued. "I'll keep an eye on her, incase she relapses...but she should be alright, but we need to be there for her." Skuld stared down at the floor.
"What's wrong Skuld?" asked Misato.
"I should have detected Mara." said Skuld, "I've had the prior experience with her, I've seen her at work...." Skuld slumped down in the chair.
"What did happen to Mara?" asked Rei.
"That's the only bright point in this." said Skuld with a slight grin, "She's been reassigned..."
Misato, Rei, and Sayoko frowned.
"Reassigned? Where? How?" asked Misato.
Skuld smiled, "Urd has....a connection."
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Adak, Alaska, USA.
Mara sat on a rock, shivering. All around her was snow, lots and lots of snow. A few polar bears lumbered by with cubs. One of the cubs walked over and looked into Mara's face, before giving her a lick with its tongue.
"D-d-d-d-d-da-mn y-y-y-y-y-y-you U-u-u-u-u-rd-d-d-d." chattered Mara, "D-d- d-d-d-damn y-y-y-y-you a-a-a-and you-r-r-r-r-r-r-r mother-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r."
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Two weeks later.
Tokyo-2 Convention Center.
"Commander Fuyutsuki!"
Kouzou Fuyutsuki stopped and turned to see a blond women hurrying up to him. As she got closer, he smiled as he recognized her.
"Why Dr. Akagi," he said, "it has been a while. And you can drop the Commander title. I lost that when I retired."
Ritsuko smiled, "You'll always be the commander. You're more respected then Ikari."
"Yes.Ikari." Fuyutsuki frowned slightly. "I still wonder what happened to him."
"We probably will never know," said Ritsuko, " 'They' want it that way."
'They' were the goddesses. Since that day in Central Dogma, none of those who had been present had ever talked to anyone outside of NERV about the fact that the Gods did exist and that some walked the earth.
The two continued down the hallway in silence. Finally, Ritsuko spoke.
"So have you decided what you want to say?"
"I plan to talk on the past and the future." replied Fuyutsuki, "We must remember our fallen friends and co-workers. And we must continue to move toward a peaceful existence on the earth, at least those of us that are still part of the UN." He then smiled. "I hope that will please our friends in the clouds."
Ritsuko smiled, "I'm sure they will find out. All 5 children are here."
"Really? I look forward to seeing them."
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15 minutes later.
Fuyutsuki stepped back from the podium to loud applause. Hanging above him was a large banner.
"NERV REUNION 2016"
Standing by their tables were all of the surviving members of NERV. After the JSSDF had attacked, many of the NERV personal were reassigned and sent elsewhere. For the first time in over a year, they now met again to honor their fallen comrades and to renew old friendships. Fuyutsuki stepped off the platform and everyone resumed their seats. Music drifted throughout the room. Some stood up and began to dance. Fuyutsuki smiled as he watched his former subordinates enjoy themselves.
"They deserve it." said Fuyutsuki, "After everything they have been through."
"What was that Commander?"
Fuyutsuki turned to see Sayoko standing next to him.
"Fifth Child." He nodded. "How are you this evening?"
"I'm fine." Sayoko turned and looked over the crowd. "That was a wonderful speech."
"Thank you. I had hoped your Aunts would be present to hear it."
"Unfortunately, both are rather busy at the moment." said Sayoko.
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The Heavens
Urd and Skuld walked quietly towards the ridge of a small hill just outside the main city in heaven.
"Are you sure he's out here?" asked Skuld nervously.
Urd just smiled, "I double checked the information. He'll be there."
They reached the hilltop. Just beyond was a small creek with rocks, beyond that a forest.
"Thank you Urd." said Skuld quietly, "I'll handle it from here."
"If you need anything, don't hesitate to call." Urd then teleported away.
Skuld quietly walked over to the stream, sat on a rock, and waited.
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Tokyo-2 Convention Center
"They're doing it again." muttered Asuka.
Shinji followed her gaze. When he saw who she was looking at..
"NO! NO WAY!!" shouted Shinji, "NOT AGAIN!"
Asuka shrank a bit. "Sorry...I didn't mean....you don't....." Asuka took a deep breathe. "I wasn't going to ask you to do that."
Shinji calmed down. "So who were you thinking of this time?"
"Kensuke could dance with Rei, as for Sayoko...."
Kensuke looked up from where he was sitting. "Me? Dance with Rei?!"
Hikari looked over from where she was sitting next to Touji. "Why are they sitting over there anyway?"
"Me." said Asuka quietly, "When the seating arrangements were made, I was still under the demon's spell."
"Well at least you're no longer under its control."
"You think Sayoko's Aunts can get Shinji out from under the Red Demon's contr.."
Kensuke was cut off as a plate slammed into his face.
"Nice toss Shinji." said Asuka with a grin.
The strains of an old 90s song began drift from the speakers. Hikari seemed to brighten up.
"Come on Touji." She grabbed Touji and led him to the dance floor.
Shinji smiled as Touji and Hikari began to dance. He spotted Misato and Kaji out dancing as well. He glanced over at Asuka.
"Want to dance?" he asked as he offered his hand.
Asuka smiled and allowed him to lead her out to the dance floor.
(Heaven- Bryan Adams)
Oh thinkin' about all our younger years There was only you and me We were young and wild and free Now nothin' can take you away from me We've been down that road before But that's over now You keep me coming back for more
Baby you're all that I want When you're lyin' here in my arms I'm findin' it hard to believe We're in heaven And love is all that I need And I found it here in your heart It isn't too hard to see We're in heaven
"They look good together." said Rei. She and Sayoko watched the couples dance about on the floor.
"Yeah." said Sayoko, sounding depressed.
Rei glanced over at her friend. "What's wrong?"
"Just wondering, if Shinji hadn't ended up with Asuka, if I would have had a chance."
Rei stared at Sayoko slightly shocked. Sayoko glanced over at Rei.
"Hey! I'm human too! The gods aren't really that different from mortals." Sayoko turned back to follow Asuka and Shinji. "Don't worry. I'm over it. They belong together. I.."
Sayoko's voice trailed off. He goddess markings began to glow. Sayoko closed her eyes. After several moments, her markings no longer glowed, and when she opened her eyes, they were brighter then they had been in months.
"Sayoko?" Rei asked.
Sayoko smiled and opened her hand towards her water glass. The glass floated up and into her hand.
"I'm back." She said with a smile. She then turned to where her friends were dancing.
Oh once in your life you find someone Who will turn your world around Bring you up when your feelin' down Ya nothin' could change what you mean to me Oh there's lots that I could say But just hold me now Cause our love will light the way
Baby you're all that I want When you're lyin' here in my arms I'm findin' it hard to believe We're in heaven And love is all that I need And I found it here in your heart It isn't too hard to see We're in heaven
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Sentaro peddled faster down the trail. For the past 16 years (since his death) he had been biking through this forest. After traveling through it so many times, his tires had finally wore out the ground to the point a path was created. Being dead wasn't that bad. He was pleasantly surprised that he actually grew a bit, so now he appeared 21 or so. It would have really sucked to have remained 15 forever. It was depressing in that he missed a certain girl. He often wondered what might have happened had the Second Impact never occurred.
Sentaro now rapidly approached the turn just before the stream. He raced through the turn and hit the small jump he had built there. As he soared through the air, he noticed the person below him. She was dressed as a goddess, and was incredibly beautiful, and also a bit familiar. Suddenly the ground was there and Sentaro and the bike tumbled across it. That was another thing nice about being dead, you couldn't get killed....again. Still, it hurt.
"Ouch!" shouted Sentaro. As he lay on the ground, a shadow moved over and blocked the sun. He looked up to see the goddess standing over him.
"Anything hurt?" she asked.
'That voice....why does it sound so familiar.' thought Sentaro. He sat up and glanced over at the bike. "Nah, it's just scratched up a bit. It will be fine."
"Dummy. I meant you."
Sentaro stood perfectly straight. At those words a memory had stirred. He had had this exact same conversation before with.....
"Skuld?" Sentaro slowly turned and looked at the Goddess. She looked to be in her late 20s, which would match the age Skuld should be. She had long black hair and the tattoos on her face were the same. The woman blushed a bit under his scrutiny.
"Hello Sentaro." She said quietly.
Sentaro was now in shock.
"You're....you're a...you're a...." he stuttered.
"Skuld, Goddess of the Future."
Sentaro's mind was now spinning.
"Why didn't you tell me?" he asked.
Skuld looked down at the ground.
"I didn't know what you'd do, if you'd want to see me again, if you'd be afraid of me, " Skuld sniffed, "....if you'd hate me."
Sentaro looked off towards the city.
"You're sisters?"
"They're goddesses too."
"Well that explains why I keep seeing your sister Urd around here." He then turned and looked back at Skuld. "Why didn't you come tell me after I...."
"I.....was suspended. I couldn't come up here." Skuld looked down at the ground. "Then when I could, I...was scared at what you would say. And then Belldandy and Keiichi disappeared, leaving me to raise my niece." Skuld turned away from him. "I'm sorry I never told you or visited you. You hate me, I know it."
Skuld felt arms encircle her and pull her into a hug.
"I don't hate you Skuld." Sentaro said softly, "I understand how hard it was to tell me what you were. I would have had a hard time understanding before, but now, having spent time around the gods, I think I understand why." He tightened his hold on her. "I've missed you."
Skuld slowly turned so that she was looking at Sentaro. She wrapped her arms around him.
"I missed you too."
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I've been waitin' for so long For somthin' to arrive For love to come along Now our dreams are comin' true Through the good times and the bad Ya I'll be standing there by you
Baby you're all that I want When you're lyin' here in my arms I'm findin' it hard to believe We're in heaven And love is all that I need And I found it here in your heart It isn't too hard to see We're in heaven
That night, Asuka lay on her bed, thinking about the days events.
"Knock knock."
Asuka sat up and looked at her mirror. Sayoko stared back at her.
"You got your powers back." said Asuka, "I wondered how Kensuke got zapped when he looked down the front of Rei's dress."
Sayoko smiled, "He deserved it. So can I come in?"
Asuka waved her hand. Sayoko floated in and sat down next to Asuka on the bed. Both were quiet for several moments.
"So....you and Shinji seemed to be enjoying yourselves."
Asuka smiled, "Yeah..."
"Wish I could find someone like him..."
"I'm sure you do." Asuka looked at the top of her dresser. "Rei told me what you said."
".."
"I'm not mad." said Asuka softly, "Everyone wanted Shinji. I was lucky enough that he chose me."
"I know." Sayoko looked down at her hands, "My Aunt says you two have a bright future together."
"I thought your Aunt hated telling people their futures."
"She does. But I begged her, I had to know...after everything that happened....if we...stayed friends...."
"You don't need you Aunt to tell you that...."
Sayoko remained quiet. Asuka glanced over at her.
"I never did thank you for the present. How did you find it?"
"I talked my Aunt Urd into helping me." said Sayoko, "We went through thousands of pictures and recordings and other files in Yggdrasil to find it. I wanted it to be....perfect."
"It is." Asuka grabbed Sayoko in hug. "Thank you."
Both girls held each other for a long time. From the dresser, a picture stood watch. In the picture was Kyoko Zeppelin Sohryu, holding a 3 year old Asuka in her arms.
