Standard disclaimer!
Yeah I know I've been neglecting just about everything, but I have good reason. College is evil. But this semester is almost finished so not too much more will take my time.
Hope you're still enjoying the story and realize that things will unfortunately be taking a little darker turn. Evangelion didn't have the most happy elements in it and I plan to have some of them make appearances. As for the ending ^_^ I have that well I mind but won't tell ya.
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Out of Disaster Chapter 15 Unto the Breach
Her cast was driving her mad. With Asuka at her side, Misato tried to control the urge to run her nails across the offending flesh, but knew she'd never find the satisfaction she wanted. Watching the remains of Unit- 03 being prepared for the test of the dummy plug, Misato had asked her ward to accompany her. Things had to be said, as the air between the two women had turned foul after their last fight.
She found that the sudden request of the Aoyama woman to have Shinji perform before her sister was the optimal time. 'Shinji's probably boarding the train right now. A weekend away from here will be good.' Her hopes were that the shy girl didn't do anything to rash though. Turning her thoughts back to the present she tried to ready her shaky emotions.
'Asuka's performance level is dropping since her defeat by Unit-03,' Misato kept repeating to herself to bolster her confidence in her talk. Looking at the redhead and how she seemed to be not fully there did more to instill the sense of urgency. "Asuka, how are you..."
Not wanting to talk to her guardian, Asuka cut her off. "If Shinji had been a few feet more to the left, he'd have killed Touji." Her tone was flat and lacking anything that could be identified as feeling.
Misato's attention was momentarily broken away from Asuka as the siren blared on the test field. Unit-01 was being brought up with no pilot. Ritsuko had deemed this test of the Dummy Plug the safest and most effective. And as the system was relatively safe, only one pilot need be on call. The fact that Unit-00 was under heavy repairs made it clear that only Asuka and her Unit-02 were required on base.
Knowing the outcome of her next statement would most likely be a retaliatory remark; Misato took a deep breath to calm the increasing beating of her heart. "How do you feel about that Asuka? That Shinji beat the angel."
"How do you think I feel? Is that why you brought me here to rub my defeat in my face?" The German turned away from the display screen and bore her gaze fully on her superior officer. Asuka was anything but happy at the moment. The woman before her had not only allied herself with the doll, but she had the audacity to throw her loss in her face.
The gaze that fell upon her struck her like a physical blow. Taking a step back from Asuka, Misato steadied herself again. She knew that Asuka had forged a deep friendship with Shinji and by using him as a tool, as much as it sickened her, she could gain some ground in talking to Asuka. "I'm just saying how do you feel about Shinji being better trained."
Her eyes widening in shock, Asuka's anger grew even further. "Better trained! He hasn't had a fraction of my training! He is NOT better than me!" Only the standing order to be on call in the off chance the dummy plug went berserk kept Asuka from storming off.
'That was the wrong word to say to her,' Misato waved her hands in denial. Again trying to steady her growing trepidation in respect to her ward, "That's not what I meant. I was asking of his improved skills were something you were proud of."
Not expecting such a question, Asuka actually found herself struck for a loss of words. 'He did improve a lot didn't he?' Her agitation started to fade but a question entered her mind, 'Where is she going with this.' Much to Misato's relief, Asuka's tone dropped a few degrees in venom, "I guess. For a wuss he didn't do that bad."
Sighing for her small victory, Misato now had a foothold to continue on. Her goal was to put more confidence in her ward to stop the slow dissension Asuka was showing. "Do you know why he's been trying so hard to improve, and why he agreed to the training?"
Part of Asuka's mind was thinking he did it to help stop the angels, but the more dominant part of her mind was thinking he did it to spend time with Shinobu. On thinking of Shinji and Shinobu, Asuka also remembered why she wasn't on friendly terms with Misato. A wry smile appeared on his face, "He did it to spend time with Shinobu, the girl he loves."
Trapped in a corner of her own making, Misato was floundering for what to say next. She had been trying to avoid the 'Shinobu vs. Rei' debate. Hoping to counter Asuka "Lets not talk about his love life while he isn't here."
Shaking her head, Asuka pressed the point with ever step forward she made. "No, that's what this is coming to isn't it? You'll try to win my confidence and then go off and say something about 'It's really in his best interest' or something."
Misato was dimly aware that Asuka had been herding her across the command station back to the wall. The Dummy Plug test was already underway but neither woman took notice or care. "No Asuka, I'm trying to help you. You're scores have dropped a..." Misato stopped when a low guttural sound emanated from Asuka.
Asuka's growl was not just in anger but also from betrayal. "You bitch! I'm doing my best! Shinji accepts that, why can't you?" Misato stared at Asuka in shock having not known Shinji had already talked with Asuka about her defeat. "You're only trying to keep us in line with your plans!"
"I don't know what you're talking about Asuka," Misato bluffed as her back found itself firmly pressed against the wall. Her thought was how glad she was that most of the command staff had moved to the test site and nobody saw how she was backing down to a teenager.
Turning her back to Misato, Asuka headed towards the hanger bay. "Say what you want but I won't help you get him together with the doll. I know you're doing 'your job' and all but leave me out of it."
Before Misato could reply the closing of the door blotted out Asuka's form. Not knowing whether she succeeded or failed in her attempts to talk to the girl, Misato just turned to the monitor. Her hand flew to her mouth to prevent the escape of anything in her stomach, as the sight was far from pleasant.
Unit-01 had totally destroyed the angelically possessed Unit-03, and had made it a point to dismember and disembowel it. She soon heard Ritsuko announce over the loud speaker that the test was a great success.
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Waiting for his train to arrive, Shinji nervously squeezed the handle of his duffle bag. Two concerns continued to revolve in his mind. The more distant was why Motoko called him to perform before her sister. The more relevant was harder to describe. "Did you come to see me off Rei?"
Sitting silently next to Shinji ever since he arrived at the station, Rei had been at war with herself. The last shreds of doubt in her mind that she loved him had been cut upon his rushed assistance with the last angel. But her reason for being had made her question herself. 'I don't want him to die, but if we succeed we will all be one regardless.'
Taking his hand into hers, she reveled in the warmth it offered, warmth she had never received in her life prior to meeting him. "I wished to know why you were leaving."
Blushing at holding Rei's hand, Shinji used his other hand to show her the bokken that he had been requested to bring. "Motoko-sensei wants me to show her sister my progress." His nervousness about his progress caused his hand to unconsciously clasp harder into Rei's.
His mind was far from ready to make a decision about the two girls in his life, but the comfort Rei offered right now was vastly appreciated. 'I know I care for them both but how do I choose one over the other? Shinobu could find somebody else that I know. But Rei may not be so fortunate.'
As if sensing his inner debate, Rei faced him. Much to the shock of the young Ikari, her voice held very firm emotion. Fear and longing. "Shinji, please tell me your feelings? I am aware that I am not the only one vying for your affection but tell me you love me?"
Shinji tried to speak but his voice failed him. 'She's almost pleading again. Such pain in her voice and face...I can't stand it!' Shinji's heart was under a full attack by Rei and his resolve in the matter was weakening.
"I know now that I truly love you," Rei continued, "I cannot bear the thought of you leaving, leaving to her." Remembering more of what Ritsuko told her to do to gain his favor, Rei closed her eyes and leaned forward.
His body responding to the call in his heart, Shinji mimicked Rei and the two shared a soft kiss. A small blessing that nobody was watching, Rei's heart was soaring. 'He hadn't said his feelings but he wouldn't do this if he had none.'
The approaching train's horn sounded the end of the chaste kiss and the return of Shinji's guilt. 'I do love her, so why can't I tell her. Because I love Shinobu too' His eyes opened to find Rei's had yet to do the same. 'She really does love me,' His hand caressed the side of Rei's face.
The small touch shook Rei from her internal thoughts and she bestowed the Ikari with another stunning smile. "Thank you Shinji. I will greet you on your arrival on Sunday."
Standing up and gathering his few bags, he headed for the waiting train. After stepping in and stowing his belongings he looked out the window to find Rei still looking at him. His time with her giving him insight to her emotions he could tell that she was in truth anxious.
'She knows that I'm still undecided. I feel terrible treating them both like this but what can I do?' Shinji berated himself as the first twinge of guilt found its home in his heart.
With a sudden jilt, the train began its journey towards Hinata. Falling heavily into his seat, Shinji had much to think about as he headed towards Shinobu who said she'd greet him on his arrival. "What do I do? What can I do?"
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When she met him at the station, Shinobu knew something was troubling Shinji. He wasn't speaking or acting like he normally did. Owing a lot of his altered temperament to the reason for his visit, she was apt to not pay much attention to it. Meeting him at five as his train arrived, the two of them did little more than idly chat as they walked back to the dorm.
Upon arrival, Shinji was greeted by both Motoko and Tsuruko and ushered off to learn the details of the next day's events in full. Kitsune witnessed the arrival and the drop in Shinobu's face as soon as Shinji was out of sight.
Following the younger girl to her room, Kitsune let herself in after a few moments had passed. Seeing Shinobu staring blankly at the wall, Kitsune sat down next to her. "What's got you down now kid? I figured having your boyfriend here would make you happy." She added a little nudge with her elbow to Shinobu's side in hopes to get a smile out of her.
Shaking her head slowly, "I don't know what's wrong." Her few words were filled with as much confusion and fear that were possible. Shinobu knew something had happened with Shinji, and with how he treated her on the walk she was sure it had to do with Rei.
Turning off her more devilish side, Kitsune put her arm around the fearful girl's shoulders. "Want to talk about it? Maybe I can help a bit. Or maybe I can ask Su to talk to you about it."
While Su had been a great friend of hers, Shinobu doubted the foreigner's ability to help her with the current events. "Something is different. Shinji seems to be hiding something from me." Seeing Rei with him, the letter that Rei and handed her prior to the angel battle, and countless other fears raced across her mind.
Squeezing the child's shoulders comfortingly, "Did you ask him about it?"
"I didn't want to burden him before this whole test thing with Motoko- sempai," exasperated Shinobu hung her head down.
Letting Shinobu's worries sink in, Kitsune thought of something. "Why not ask him out on Sunday? The test is tomorrow so he could spend the majority of Sunday here and you can charm the answers out of him."
Having never thought of actually going on a date with Shinji, Shinobu wondered why she had never thought of it. Looking at Kitsune and finding a warm, comforting smile she found herself liking the idea more and more. "Maybe I could show him around Hinata."
With that her mind shifted to its more adult side, Kitsune reasoned that it was kinda cute and would be easier on the two of them. "I think we have a plan. We just have to sex you up a little bit so there isn't a way he can refuse you!"
Kitsune then began the great makeover plan and even coerced Naru into helping dress Shinobu up for the hopeful big date on Sunday. Shinobu was merely along for the ride at that point because the two older girls seemed to ignore her questions about the dresses, make-up, and advice they were giving.
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While Shinobu was acting as a living mannequin, Shinji was having a light sparing session with Motoko. Wanting to insure he had been keeping up with his daily practices, Motoko insisted they go over a few moves after they talked with Tsuruko.
With all that was on his mind, Shinji wasn't nearly up to par with his movements. After the third confirmed 'kill' by his sensei, Motoko called the session to a premature halt. "Your mind isn't here today Shinji. What troubles you so much?"
Wiping the sweat from his brow, Shinji sunk to a sitting position. A bit apprehensive of talking about relationships after all the mention of rumors at Hinata, Shinji sat quietly. Receiving a look from Motoko that was far from pleasant he realized he couldn't refuse to answer his sensei. "Things are confusing right now."
Recognizing his tone referred to something other than the upcoming demonstration, Motoko sheathed her blade and sat next to her pupil. Looking up at the emerging stars, "It concerns your heart."
Shinji nodded to Motoko's theory. Hoping that Motoko could offer more help than Touji and Kensuke could, he told her the whole story. He left little out of his explanation. He told Motoko of Rei and his relationship with her, his feelings regarding Shinobu, and lastly what may happen as result of the angel battles. As he finished his recount, the pair were looking at the late night moon.
Motoko didn't have any answers outright having little experience with relationships. She remained in silent contemplation for several minutes while Shinji simply breathed the rich night air. After coming to her conclusion, "You do have a mighty quandary on your hands. My only advice is to act as your heart dictates. If you make a choice based on the others wants or position you may find that in time things degrade. It has to be your choice, not the result of trying to help others."
Thanking Motoko deeply for her advice, Shinji made to leave but found his arm trapped. Holding unto the sleeve of his Gi, Motoko stood up and pulled him into a light hug. "You have joined our family here Shinji, I am glad you trusted me with your worries. As my pupil you have became special to me. Know that whatever choice you make we here at Hinata will stand behind it and accept it."
Slightly embarrassed Shinji walked back to his temporary room for some much needed sleep. Tomorrow was to be a big day and he was going to give it his all. As his head hit his pillow a quick image of Motoko's hug flashed before his eyes. 'They are like a big family, Shinobu's lucky to live here.' And right before sleep overcame him, 'I wonder what life would belike if I actually lived here.'
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The whole assembly of Hinata dorm had turned out, save Kanako who had still been missing, to watch Shinji and Motoko's demonstration. Naru and Keitaro, shocking the majority of the onlookers, sat close to one another and Naru hadn't sent Keitaro flying at all. Su danced around Shinobu cheering on Shinji and Motoko as they performed their movements. Kitsune and Nyamo watched in silent awe both at how much progress Shinji had made and Motoko's elegant sword style.
Haruka smoked and smiled softly at how two men had affected the lives of the entirety of Hinata. Tsuruko remained impassive during the whole event. Internally she was happy, but she couldn't show it until the demonstration was over as it could result in errs of confidence.
As the pair returned their blades to the proper place on their sides, the crew cheered. Bowing to Tsuruko, Shinji and Motoko held their breaths. They hoped they had done things satisfactory but as with all things a shadow of doubt existed. Said doubt was destroyed as the elder Aoyama sister walked the small distance across the dormitory's courtyard and smiled.
"Motoko you have done well in training this boy," turning to Shinji, "And you young man have made much progress in your training. We of the Aoyama clan accept you officially into our ranks." Truthfully it was Tsuruko that accepted Shinji not the clan. She never told Motoko that regardless of his ability their grandfather had made it a fact that nothing would keep him out. 'He really does belong among us, and in time he may yet be an accomplished swordsman.'
With the formality done with, the party began at Kitsune's insistence. Only allowing the adults to drink, Shinji and Shinobu quickly found each other technically alone as the others engaged in their own activities. Only once did Motoko distract them as she yelled at her sister. Tsuruko, who had witnessed the previous nights practice spar, asked if Motoko wanted to be paired up with Shinji in the marriage battle.
After the resulting commotion the party ended as Naru sent Keitaro, who tried to pull Motoko away from Tsuruko, flying far into the twilight sky.
On his door, Shinji found a note from Shinobu asking him to head to the roof before bed. Having nothing but questions and no reason to refuse one of the girls he cared so deeply for, he complied.
He found Shinobu fidgeting with the hem of her skirt and mumbling to herself as he approached her. Her nerves almost shot she simply blurted out her question the moment she set her eyes on him. "Would you like me to show you Hinata tomorrow?"
Flabbergasted by Shinobu's request Shinji simply nodded. "Why wouldn't I want that?"
Her fears gaining the upper hand again, Shinobu ran into his arms. She had been sure he would have refused, claiming he couldn't spend time with her anymore. Her arms securely behind the young man's back, "Thank you Shinji...thank you."
Uncertain as to why she was thanking him, and his own guilt from his own indecisiveness, Shinji hugged her back. Before the pair could do anything else a resounding crash from behind them alerted them to the presence of somebody else.
"Damn it guys!" Kitsune yelled at the assembled family of Hinata. Everybody at the party had saw the pair leave and followed. Now blushing before her family, Shinobu meeped softly then after a bout of hysterics swooned.
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As Shinobu was elegantly falling to the ground, Misato was falling into her favorite barstool. Hoping to loosen Ritsuko's tongue a bit with alcohol and finally get some questions answered, she wasn't alone. It was a little crowded for a late Saturday night, but being an on-site bar, Misato doubted she would need worry about the wrong people eavesdropping.
After ordering a few rounds for the two of them and lots of pointless banter, Misato sized up her friends alcohol content and state of mind. Finding both about ready for some serious questions she scooted her seat closer to her friends.
Having controlled her intake of her favorite beverage, Misato's mind was as sharp as possible, "Ritsuko, can we talk seriously for a minute?"
With a few slurred words, Ritsuko proved not to be as apt for consumption as Misato, "Suuure. But den again I'm always serious." Her body listing slightly against Misato's.
'I've been manipulating people all day long,' Misato thought as she finally took stock in her plan to get her answers from her drunken friend. With thoughts of taking a long shower to get the feeling of dirt off of her she continued, "Who do you think Rei's talking to?"
With a few loud and sharp laughs, Ritsuko hid her lips behind her hand. "Prolly Shinji-kun. Girl loves that boy so much it's almost as if she been....conditioned to do so." Another bout of laughter from the blond almost sent her tumbling to the floor.
Steadying her drunken friend, Misato started to wonder if she hadn't been wrong about the whole alcohol thing after all. "No, I mean she's getting a lot of odd information about couples and relationships. Do you know who she's been asking about this stuff?"
Putting her hand firmly on Misato's shoulder, Ritsuko looked her square in the eye. The smell of expensive booze poured out of her mouth as she spoke. "Kid at school prolly. Kids have odd ideas bout...bout...sex and things at that age."
Ritsuko's statement had merit in Misato's eyes, maybe Rei did just meet a girl that she could talk to about this and just was very discrete about it. But for a moment, the raven haired woman almost suspected Ritsuko was the one behind Rei's fount of knowledge.
Giving her watch a momentary glance, she winced at the time. Getting to her feet and putting on her flight jacket, "Well Rits, I have to go. Want me to call you a cab?"
Waving off the offer, "Nah, I'm good. Going sit her for lil while and I'll be right as rain soon nuff." She capped off her remark by shoving a cigarette in her mouth and lighting it. "Going get Shinji tomorrow?"
Adjusting her purse, "Going to pick him up at the station around eight pm. I just want to get an early start on cleaning up the apartment before he gets back." With one more wave, Misato left the bar and headed home, where she hoped her other ward was already sleeping.
Once Misato was out of sight, Ritsuko sat up tall. Smiling sadly at her friends stool Ritsuko was upset with herself. 'Misato won't be clueless for long. If she knew I was acting this whole thing could blow up in my face.' Asking the bartender for something hard, Ritsuko just hoped she had bought herself enough time to go past the point of no return for the damned doll and her master.
Reaching for the shot of bourbon that was given to her she drained it in one swallow. She'd get her revenge, for herself and her mother against that man. 'Gendo, why couldn't you just let go of her?'
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The morning light wasn't very well received by Shinobu. After she recovered from her fainting spell sleep had taken leave of her. Worries, doubts, and apprehension about the next days 'date' refused to offer her a moments piece. Finally falling into a fitful slumber, she found her dreams plagued by nightmares.
Sitting up in her bed Shinobu couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding. Something defiantly wasn't right but she couldn't put her finger on it. Trying to dispel the awful dread that was slowly welling in her chest she heard a light rap on her door. After a quick glance at herself to insure she was decent she asked who it was.
"Thought you might want a little help getting ready for your big date," Kitsune smiled broadly as she tossed the outfit that was selected the other night at Shinobu. The dress wasn't anything too fancy; they agreed that simplicity was best for this occasion. It was a strapless powder blue dress with a few frills on the hem, which much to Kitsune's displeasure was down to Shinobu's ankles.
Putting her fears aside Shinobu quickly thanked her romantic advisor and ushered her out so she could change. Once clad in the day's attire, she found Kitsune had again knocking on her door. Worried that she had forgotten something, "I thought it was Naru-sempai's turn to cook breakfast."
Stopping momentarily at that, Kitsune had to remind herself NOT to show up for breakfast. Naru's cooking was far from Kitsune's favorite things, 'This date better be worth us missing out on her cooking.' Tossing Shinobu a compact, "You want to try a little make-up today?"
Uncertainty eroded the confidence that had found a place on her features. Her last experience with make-up ending in the whole kissing fiasco. "Are you sure it's a good idea, it isn't really a date and all."
Waving her finger before the young girl's eyes, "Yes it is Shinobu, it is a real date." Taking her silence as cue to proceed, the fox took it upon herself again to apply the correct amount of coloring to Shinobu's face. 'She doesn't need much to get his attention, but every little bit helps.'
Whether Kitsune knew it or not, at that moment Shinobu saw her in a totally new light. As Kitsune lightly covered her lower lip with a light shade of lipstick, Shinobu couldn't help but feel at ease, 'She's just like a real older sister.'
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When he was met by Shinobu at the front door of Hinata, Shinji's mind came to a crashing halt. He knew he found Shinobu attractive, but today she looked ravishing. He was captivated by the sudden change in wardrobe and in the subtle accentuations the make-up exposed.
Kitsune, who was prodding the young girl to move forward, let out a joyous laugh, "I think you got him." Naru, who was also watching the two, wasn't as happy. No, she couldn't be happy with Shinobu going out on dates, what if he did something perverted to her?
Having no better cloths with him, Shinji felt slightly underdressed, in his white collared shirt and black slacks, for a showing of the town. "Are you ready to go Shinobu?"
Feeling one last push from behind, Shinobu nodded and linked her arm with his, "Yes I am." Smiling openly at him, she was relieved that he obviously found her appearance very pleasing and the feeling of impending doom seemed to have lessened.
As the two of them descended the all too familiar Hinata Lodge stairs, they didn't notice the reverberated steps behind them. "Naru, why are we following them?" Kitsune asked mildly amused at the couple in front of her.
Her eyes never leaving them for a second, "We have to make sure he doesn't 'do' anything to her that's why."
Something about how Naru said her accusation made Kitsune smile. 'She knows he's a good kid, she just wants an excuse to follow them.'
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Author Notes
Told ya things would start getting darker. Don't worry I won't go to far and I hope the few dramatic scenes weren't to corny ^_^
Still hope you liked it and I hope you like the omake too.
After this chapter I'm going to mst a chp of Random's Should a chance be taken and get right back to this story. Going to finish it before I go back to my other works so if you like OoD you'll be happy
Ja mata
Zentrodie(zentrodie@secondimpact.com)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------ OMAKE!!
Smiling wickedly into the camera, Kitsune cheers, "Welcome once again to the Mega-Tama-chan viewing podium!"
Seated next to her a sober Misato, "I join you today fully sober, thanks to a ban against on-air drinking, and a missing Su! Kitsune, where is the ecstatic foreigner?"
Taking a firm grip on her mic, "As her favorite combatant is taking the field in the forest behind Hinata lodge, Su is down on the field to show her support!"
Thanking Kami-sama for sparing her eardrums, Misato sent off a quick prayer, "She will be missed. As for um...your friends?"
Kitsune turns to a side monitor showing Naru chasing after Keitaro with a pair of scissors. "Well he did know there was film in the camera."
"He just didn't know you were going to put them those photos on the internet," Misato's smile widening to match Kitsune's. 'I can get to like this girl.'
Finding a kindred spirit next to her, Kitsune slapped the older woman on the back, "What fun would that be. I'd have to split the profits."
"GET THE FIGHT STARTED!"
"Why are you delaying in showing my man defeating your friend?"
Misato, not liking to hear from the cages, prodded the occupants with a stick, "Enough from the peanut gallery!"
Wincing back in minute pain, Shinobu cried out to her friend, "Kitsune- sempai how can you let this happen to me!"
"You were going to kill a contestant off camera," the eternal fox replied, "and we can't lose that kind of footage."
"Kill, I was about to tear her flesh from her body and...CENSORED" Rei looked at the camera and then the footage goes blank.
"Um, we don't have to pay for that do we?" a worried Misato asked as she tried to figure the cost of not only the camera but the film crew that most likely died as a result of the blast.
"They were union so no," Kitsune replied trying to get Rei's rage out of her mind, "Is she always like that?"
"Only when it concerns her pray," Misato cast a sad glance at her picture of Shinji.
"As for said pray let us begin this battle," now glad in a bunny girl suit, "ARE YOU READY TO RUMBLE!!!"
Bursting into a fit of laughter Misato held her side that was starting to throb with pain, "What the hell are you doing dressed like that?"
"Fan service, the girls get to see the meat fighting so we have to give the guys a lil something extra," Kitsune finished by blowing a kiss to the camera.
Now dressed in a tight fitting cat suit, "I guess you're right! LET THE BUSHIDO BATTLE BEGIN!"
"On the left side of your screen we have in the red and white Gi, Aoyama Motoko. Heir to the God's Cry school!" A joyous roar of female voices is heard. Motoko's fanclub was not to be dismissed.
Misato took it upon herself to introduce her ward to the growing throng of spectators. "On the right side, in the stylish white and black Gi, Ikari SHINJI!!! GIVE IT UP LADIES!"
As said ladies start hollering a blast of orange energy is seen in the distance. "Shit, um...Rei's out so we better make this fast or the fan clubs will be dead."
Kitsune wasn't finished though, "Will Motoko teach her pupil his rightful place or with the Student become the teacher! And yes you two can own your very own Shinji Ikari pilot doll made popular in the Evangelion Msts! Who writes this crap anyway?"
"You don't want to know," Misato said quietly before the camera pans down to the combatants.
"I won't go easy on you Shinji, I have my honor as a warrior to give it my all," Motoko said as she drew her blade. 'And when I win the prize I doubt you'll be to upset with me. Being married to me won't be that bad.'
Keeping his sword sheathed, Shinji tried to ignore the spreading blush on Motoko's face and the dreamy look in her eyes. He had to remain focused. "Nor will I pull any punches Motoko-sensei. I had a few private lessons before this match."
With the opening comments finished both warriors sized up their opponent. Walking slowly around one another neither made a move. In a quick flash Motoko sprung forward with an overhand slash which Shinji deflected with his sheath.
"Boku justsu won't save you Shinji. I'm faster than any killing strike you can make," Motoko said as she tested Shinji's defenses a few more times.
Unknown to Motoko, Shinji's never planned on drawing his sword to win this battle. As she charged in to take another swing at him, he sidestepped her motion. Unbalanced by the peculiar move, Motoko's back was left wide open.
Grabbing the woman from behind in what many would consider a very intimate embrace, Kitsune was happy to see the ratings markings going sky high.
Before she could struggle, Shinji whispered softly yet hotly into her ear. "There are many ways to lose a battle Motoko-sensei. Keitaro-san told me this little trick before the match."
Her legs going weak, Motoko found it hard to hold unto her blade. Her hormones were screeching at her to submit to the callings of lust. Shinji was having just as hard a time keeping up the ruse. Not being the most 'active' guy he felt guilty doing this to his teacher but his innate survival instincts told him that he had to win this tournament.
Pulling herself up into a standing position, Shinji found his shorter height left him hanging on Motoko's back. "I ...will not lose to you Shinji!"
Trying the ear blow one last time, Shinji jumped off Motoko just in time to see her fall back down to her knees. The look in her eyes told him that he had done something to Motoko, Keitaro never really told him 'what' doing that to her accomplished, just that it would help him 'win out in the end.'
Over the thunderous pounding in her heart, Motoko wanted to win more than ever. "You...fight without honor today Shinji!"
Looking at her sadly Shinji nodded, "I could never hope to beat you with a sword Sensei, nor would I want to."
Over the loud speaker, "Is that it? Does Shinji surrender?"
"NO!" Shinji's loud cry of defiance resounded in the forest, "I will not submit. I'm sorry Sensei, I won't beat you with a sword but I will beat you!" Tossing a concealed item at Motoko, Kitsune sighed in defeat and handed the eager Misato her winnings.
"TURTLE TURTLE!! GET IT OFF ME!" Motoko screamed in terror as Tama-chan, who had been paid by Shinji in sardines, landed squarely on Motoko's head. After a few minutes of futile turtle swatting, Motoko fainted in shock.
With on last look at Motoko, Shinji walked off the battlefield as cries of injustice, then pain as Rei returned to the arena, sounded behind him. 'I'm sorry Sensei.'
"And there you have it folks! The student taught the master that all things are legal in a battle! Stay tuned as next time we end the semi-finals with Shinobu VS Rei!" Misato announced as she counted the money she had just won.
-------------------
Zentrodie: Now that was a funny battle.
Golden Kitsune: Yeah but you needed more sword action!
Zen: But I'm not good at fight scenes.
GK: How you expect to get better at them if you don't write them?
Zen: How bout you do it?
GK: I won't do it but I'll give you some examples.
Zen: Cool you have those in a text...file or...what are you doing?
GK: This is for making me look like a pervert in your damn omakes!
Censored for content
GK: Ah, now I feel better, think you can write battles better.
Zen: .....
GK: Zen?
Zen:.........
GK: Damn now the next chapter will be a bit longer in the making.
Yeah I know I've been neglecting just about everything, but I have good reason. College is evil. But this semester is almost finished so not too much more will take my time.
Hope you're still enjoying the story and realize that things will unfortunately be taking a little darker turn. Evangelion didn't have the most happy elements in it and I plan to have some of them make appearances. As for the ending ^_^ I have that well I mind but won't tell ya.
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Out of Disaster Chapter 15 Unto the Breach
Her cast was driving her mad. With Asuka at her side, Misato tried to control the urge to run her nails across the offending flesh, but knew she'd never find the satisfaction she wanted. Watching the remains of Unit- 03 being prepared for the test of the dummy plug, Misato had asked her ward to accompany her. Things had to be said, as the air between the two women had turned foul after their last fight.
She found that the sudden request of the Aoyama woman to have Shinji perform before her sister was the optimal time. 'Shinji's probably boarding the train right now. A weekend away from here will be good.' Her hopes were that the shy girl didn't do anything to rash though. Turning her thoughts back to the present she tried to ready her shaky emotions.
'Asuka's performance level is dropping since her defeat by Unit-03,' Misato kept repeating to herself to bolster her confidence in her talk. Looking at the redhead and how she seemed to be not fully there did more to instill the sense of urgency. "Asuka, how are you..."
Not wanting to talk to her guardian, Asuka cut her off. "If Shinji had been a few feet more to the left, he'd have killed Touji." Her tone was flat and lacking anything that could be identified as feeling.
Misato's attention was momentarily broken away from Asuka as the siren blared on the test field. Unit-01 was being brought up with no pilot. Ritsuko had deemed this test of the Dummy Plug the safest and most effective. And as the system was relatively safe, only one pilot need be on call. The fact that Unit-00 was under heavy repairs made it clear that only Asuka and her Unit-02 were required on base.
Knowing the outcome of her next statement would most likely be a retaliatory remark; Misato took a deep breath to calm the increasing beating of her heart. "How do you feel about that Asuka? That Shinji beat the angel."
"How do you think I feel? Is that why you brought me here to rub my defeat in my face?" The German turned away from the display screen and bore her gaze fully on her superior officer. Asuka was anything but happy at the moment. The woman before her had not only allied herself with the doll, but she had the audacity to throw her loss in her face.
The gaze that fell upon her struck her like a physical blow. Taking a step back from Asuka, Misato steadied herself again. She knew that Asuka had forged a deep friendship with Shinji and by using him as a tool, as much as it sickened her, she could gain some ground in talking to Asuka. "I'm just saying how do you feel about Shinji being better trained."
Her eyes widening in shock, Asuka's anger grew even further. "Better trained! He hasn't had a fraction of my training! He is NOT better than me!" Only the standing order to be on call in the off chance the dummy plug went berserk kept Asuka from storming off.
'That was the wrong word to say to her,' Misato waved her hands in denial. Again trying to steady her growing trepidation in respect to her ward, "That's not what I meant. I was asking of his improved skills were something you were proud of."
Not expecting such a question, Asuka actually found herself struck for a loss of words. 'He did improve a lot didn't he?' Her agitation started to fade but a question entered her mind, 'Where is she going with this.' Much to Misato's relief, Asuka's tone dropped a few degrees in venom, "I guess. For a wuss he didn't do that bad."
Sighing for her small victory, Misato now had a foothold to continue on. Her goal was to put more confidence in her ward to stop the slow dissension Asuka was showing. "Do you know why he's been trying so hard to improve, and why he agreed to the training?"
Part of Asuka's mind was thinking he did it to help stop the angels, but the more dominant part of her mind was thinking he did it to spend time with Shinobu. On thinking of Shinji and Shinobu, Asuka also remembered why she wasn't on friendly terms with Misato. A wry smile appeared on his face, "He did it to spend time with Shinobu, the girl he loves."
Trapped in a corner of her own making, Misato was floundering for what to say next. She had been trying to avoid the 'Shinobu vs. Rei' debate. Hoping to counter Asuka "Lets not talk about his love life while he isn't here."
Shaking her head, Asuka pressed the point with ever step forward she made. "No, that's what this is coming to isn't it? You'll try to win my confidence and then go off and say something about 'It's really in his best interest' or something."
Misato was dimly aware that Asuka had been herding her across the command station back to the wall. The Dummy Plug test was already underway but neither woman took notice or care. "No Asuka, I'm trying to help you. You're scores have dropped a..." Misato stopped when a low guttural sound emanated from Asuka.
Asuka's growl was not just in anger but also from betrayal. "You bitch! I'm doing my best! Shinji accepts that, why can't you?" Misato stared at Asuka in shock having not known Shinji had already talked with Asuka about her defeat. "You're only trying to keep us in line with your plans!"
"I don't know what you're talking about Asuka," Misato bluffed as her back found itself firmly pressed against the wall. Her thought was how glad she was that most of the command staff had moved to the test site and nobody saw how she was backing down to a teenager.
Turning her back to Misato, Asuka headed towards the hanger bay. "Say what you want but I won't help you get him together with the doll. I know you're doing 'your job' and all but leave me out of it."
Before Misato could reply the closing of the door blotted out Asuka's form. Not knowing whether she succeeded or failed in her attempts to talk to the girl, Misato just turned to the monitor. Her hand flew to her mouth to prevent the escape of anything in her stomach, as the sight was far from pleasant.
Unit-01 had totally destroyed the angelically possessed Unit-03, and had made it a point to dismember and disembowel it. She soon heard Ritsuko announce over the loud speaker that the test was a great success.
--------------
Waiting for his train to arrive, Shinji nervously squeezed the handle of his duffle bag. Two concerns continued to revolve in his mind. The more distant was why Motoko called him to perform before her sister. The more relevant was harder to describe. "Did you come to see me off Rei?"
Sitting silently next to Shinji ever since he arrived at the station, Rei had been at war with herself. The last shreds of doubt in her mind that she loved him had been cut upon his rushed assistance with the last angel. But her reason for being had made her question herself. 'I don't want him to die, but if we succeed we will all be one regardless.'
Taking his hand into hers, she reveled in the warmth it offered, warmth she had never received in her life prior to meeting him. "I wished to know why you were leaving."
Blushing at holding Rei's hand, Shinji used his other hand to show her the bokken that he had been requested to bring. "Motoko-sensei wants me to show her sister my progress." His nervousness about his progress caused his hand to unconsciously clasp harder into Rei's.
His mind was far from ready to make a decision about the two girls in his life, but the comfort Rei offered right now was vastly appreciated. 'I know I care for them both but how do I choose one over the other? Shinobu could find somebody else that I know. But Rei may not be so fortunate.'
As if sensing his inner debate, Rei faced him. Much to the shock of the young Ikari, her voice held very firm emotion. Fear and longing. "Shinji, please tell me your feelings? I am aware that I am not the only one vying for your affection but tell me you love me?"
Shinji tried to speak but his voice failed him. 'She's almost pleading again. Such pain in her voice and face...I can't stand it!' Shinji's heart was under a full attack by Rei and his resolve in the matter was weakening.
"I know now that I truly love you," Rei continued, "I cannot bear the thought of you leaving, leaving to her." Remembering more of what Ritsuko told her to do to gain his favor, Rei closed her eyes and leaned forward.
His body responding to the call in his heart, Shinji mimicked Rei and the two shared a soft kiss. A small blessing that nobody was watching, Rei's heart was soaring. 'He hadn't said his feelings but he wouldn't do this if he had none.'
The approaching train's horn sounded the end of the chaste kiss and the return of Shinji's guilt. 'I do love her, so why can't I tell her. Because I love Shinobu too' His eyes opened to find Rei's had yet to do the same. 'She really does love me,' His hand caressed the side of Rei's face.
The small touch shook Rei from her internal thoughts and she bestowed the Ikari with another stunning smile. "Thank you Shinji. I will greet you on your arrival on Sunday."
Standing up and gathering his few bags, he headed for the waiting train. After stepping in and stowing his belongings he looked out the window to find Rei still looking at him. His time with her giving him insight to her emotions he could tell that she was in truth anxious.
'She knows that I'm still undecided. I feel terrible treating them both like this but what can I do?' Shinji berated himself as the first twinge of guilt found its home in his heart.
With a sudden jilt, the train began its journey towards Hinata. Falling heavily into his seat, Shinji had much to think about as he headed towards Shinobu who said she'd greet him on his arrival. "What do I do? What can I do?"
---------------
When she met him at the station, Shinobu knew something was troubling Shinji. He wasn't speaking or acting like he normally did. Owing a lot of his altered temperament to the reason for his visit, she was apt to not pay much attention to it. Meeting him at five as his train arrived, the two of them did little more than idly chat as they walked back to the dorm.
Upon arrival, Shinji was greeted by both Motoko and Tsuruko and ushered off to learn the details of the next day's events in full. Kitsune witnessed the arrival and the drop in Shinobu's face as soon as Shinji was out of sight.
Following the younger girl to her room, Kitsune let herself in after a few moments had passed. Seeing Shinobu staring blankly at the wall, Kitsune sat down next to her. "What's got you down now kid? I figured having your boyfriend here would make you happy." She added a little nudge with her elbow to Shinobu's side in hopes to get a smile out of her.
Shaking her head slowly, "I don't know what's wrong." Her few words were filled with as much confusion and fear that were possible. Shinobu knew something had happened with Shinji, and with how he treated her on the walk she was sure it had to do with Rei.
Turning off her more devilish side, Kitsune put her arm around the fearful girl's shoulders. "Want to talk about it? Maybe I can help a bit. Or maybe I can ask Su to talk to you about it."
While Su had been a great friend of hers, Shinobu doubted the foreigner's ability to help her with the current events. "Something is different. Shinji seems to be hiding something from me." Seeing Rei with him, the letter that Rei and handed her prior to the angel battle, and countless other fears raced across her mind.
Squeezing the child's shoulders comfortingly, "Did you ask him about it?"
"I didn't want to burden him before this whole test thing with Motoko- sempai," exasperated Shinobu hung her head down.
Letting Shinobu's worries sink in, Kitsune thought of something. "Why not ask him out on Sunday? The test is tomorrow so he could spend the majority of Sunday here and you can charm the answers out of him."
Having never thought of actually going on a date with Shinji, Shinobu wondered why she had never thought of it. Looking at Kitsune and finding a warm, comforting smile she found herself liking the idea more and more. "Maybe I could show him around Hinata."
With that her mind shifted to its more adult side, Kitsune reasoned that it was kinda cute and would be easier on the two of them. "I think we have a plan. We just have to sex you up a little bit so there isn't a way he can refuse you!"
Kitsune then began the great makeover plan and even coerced Naru into helping dress Shinobu up for the hopeful big date on Sunday. Shinobu was merely along for the ride at that point because the two older girls seemed to ignore her questions about the dresses, make-up, and advice they were giving.
------------
While Shinobu was acting as a living mannequin, Shinji was having a light sparing session with Motoko. Wanting to insure he had been keeping up with his daily practices, Motoko insisted they go over a few moves after they talked with Tsuruko.
With all that was on his mind, Shinji wasn't nearly up to par with his movements. After the third confirmed 'kill' by his sensei, Motoko called the session to a premature halt. "Your mind isn't here today Shinji. What troubles you so much?"
Wiping the sweat from his brow, Shinji sunk to a sitting position. A bit apprehensive of talking about relationships after all the mention of rumors at Hinata, Shinji sat quietly. Receiving a look from Motoko that was far from pleasant he realized he couldn't refuse to answer his sensei. "Things are confusing right now."
Recognizing his tone referred to something other than the upcoming demonstration, Motoko sheathed her blade and sat next to her pupil. Looking up at the emerging stars, "It concerns your heart."
Shinji nodded to Motoko's theory. Hoping that Motoko could offer more help than Touji and Kensuke could, he told her the whole story. He left little out of his explanation. He told Motoko of Rei and his relationship with her, his feelings regarding Shinobu, and lastly what may happen as result of the angel battles. As he finished his recount, the pair were looking at the late night moon.
Motoko didn't have any answers outright having little experience with relationships. She remained in silent contemplation for several minutes while Shinji simply breathed the rich night air. After coming to her conclusion, "You do have a mighty quandary on your hands. My only advice is to act as your heart dictates. If you make a choice based on the others wants or position you may find that in time things degrade. It has to be your choice, not the result of trying to help others."
Thanking Motoko deeply for her advice, Shinji made to leave but found his arm trapped. Holding unto the sleeve of his Gi, Motoko stood up and pulled him into a light hug. "You have joined our family here Shinji, I am glad you trusted me with your worries. As my pupil you have became special to me. Know that whatever choice you make we here at Hinata will stand behind it and accept it."
Slightly embarrassed Shinji walked back to his temporary room for some much needed sleep. Tomorrow was to be a big day and he was going to give it his all. As his head hit his pillow a quick image of Motoko's hug flashed before his eyes. 'They are like a big family, Shinobu's lucky to live here.' And right before sleep overcame him, 'I wonder what life would belike if I actually lived here.'
-----------------
The whole assembly of Hinata dorm had turned out, save Kanako who had still been missing, to watch Shinji and Motoko's demonstration. Naru and Keitaro, shocking the majority of the onlookers, sat close to one another and Naru hadn't sent Keitaro flying at all. Su danced around Shinobu cheering on Shinji and Motoko as they performed their movements. Kitsune and Nyamo watched in silent awe both at how much progress Shinji had made and Motoko's elegant sword style.
Haruka smoked and smiled softly at how two men had affected the lives of the entirety of Hinata. Tsuruko remained impassive during the whole event. Internally she was happy, but she couldn't show it until the demonstration was over as it could result in errs of confidence.
As the pair returned their blades to the proper place on their sides, the crew cheered. Bowing to Tsuruko, Shinji and Motoko held their breaths. They hoped they had done things satisfactory but as with all things a shadow of doubt existed. Said doubt was destroyed as the elder Aoyama sister walked the small distance across the dormitory's courtyard and smiled.
"Motoko you have done well in training this boy," turning to Shinji, "And you young man have made much progress in your training. We of the Aoyama clan accept you officially into our ranks." Truthfully it was Tsuruko that accepted Shinji not the clan. She never told Motoko that regardless of his ability their grandfather had made it a fact that nothing would keep him out. 'He really does belong among us, and in time he may yet be an accomplished swordsman.'
With the formality done with, the party began at Kitsune's insistence. Only allowing the adults to drink, Shinji and Shinobu quickly found each other technically alone as the others engaged in their own activities. Only once did Motoko distract them as she yelled at her sister. Tsuruko, who had witnessed the previous nights practice spar, asked if Motoko wanted to be paired up with Shinji in the marriage battle.
After the resulting commotion the party ended as Naru sent Keitaro, who tried to pull Motoko away from Tsuruko, flying far into the twilight sky.
On his door, Shinji found a note from Shinobu asking him to head to the roof before bed. Having nothing but questions and no reason to refuse one of the girls he cared so deeply for, he complied.
He found Shinobu fidgeting with the hem of her skirt and mumbling to herself as he approached her. Her nerves almost shot she simply blurted out her question the moment she set her eyes on him. "Would you like me to show you Hinata tomorrow?"
Flabbergasted by Shinobu's request Shinji simply nodded. "Why wouldn't I want that?"
Her fears gaining the upper hand again, Shinobu ran into his arms. She had been sure he would have refused, claiming he couldn't spend time with her anymore. Her arms securely behind the young man's back, "Thank you Shinji...thank you."
Uncertain as to why she was thanking him, and his own guilt from his own indecisiveness, Shinji hugged her back. Before the pair could do anything else a resounding crash from behind them alerted them to the presence of somebody else.
"Damn it guys!" Kitsune yelled at the assembled family of Hinata. Everybody at the party had saw the pair leave and followed. Now blushing before her family, Shinobu meeped softly then after a bout of hysterics swooned.
--------
As Shinobu was elegantly falling to the ground, Misato was falling into her favorite barstool. Hoping to loosen Ritsuko's tongue a bit with alcohol and finally get some questions answered, she wasn't alone. It was a little crowded for a late Saturday night, but being an on-site bar, Misato doubted she would need worry about the wrong people eavesdropping.
After ordering a few rounds for the two of them and lots of pointless banter, Misato sized up her friends alcohol content and state of mind. Finding both about ready for some serious questions she scooted her seat closer to her friends.
Having controlled her intake of her favorite beverage, Misato's mind was as sharp as possible, "Ritsuko, can we talk seriously for a minute?"
With a few slurred words, Ritsuko proved not to be as apt for consumption as Misato, "Suuure. But den again I'm always serious." Her body listing slightly against Misato's.
'I've been manipulating people all day long,' Misato thought as she finally took stock in her plan to get her answers from her drunken friend. With thoughts of taking a long shower to get the feeling of dirt off of her she continued, "Who do you think Rei's talking to?"
With a few loud and sharp laughs, Ritsuko hid her lips behind her hand. "Prolly Shinji-kun. Girl loves that boy so much it's almost as if she been....conditioned to do so." Another bout of laughter from the blond almost sent her tumbling to the floor.
Steadying her drunken friend, Misato started to wonder if she hadn't been wrong about the whole alcohol thing after all. "No, I mean she's getting a lot of odd information about couples and relationships. Do you know who she's been asking about this stuff?"
Putting her hand firmly on Misato's shoulder, Ritsuko looked her square in the eye. The smell of expensive booze poured out of her mouth as she spoke. "Kid at school prolly. Kids have odd ideas bout...bout...sex and things at that age."
Ritsuko's statement had merit in Misato's eyes, maybe Rei did just meet a girl that she could talk to about this and just was very discrete about it. But for a moment, the raven haired woman almost suspected Ritsuko was the one behind Rei's fount of knowledge.
Giving her watch a momentary glance, she winced at the time. Getting to her feet and putting on her flight jacket, "Well Rits, I have to go. Want me to call you a cab?"
Waving off the offer, "Nah, I'm good. Going sit her for lil while and I'll be right as rain soon nuff." She capped off her remark by shoving a cigarette in her mouth and lighting it. "Going get Shinji tomorrow?"
Adjusting her purse, "Going to pick him up at the station around eight pm. I just want to get an early start on cleaning up the apartment before he gets back." With one more wave, Misato left the bar and headed home, where she hoped her other ward was already sleeping.
Once Misato was out of sight, Ritsuko sat up tall. Smiling sadly at her friends stool Ritsuko was upset with herself. 'Misato won't be clueless for long. If she knew I was acting this whole thing could blow up in my face.' Asking the bartender for something hard, Ritsuko just hoped she had bought herself enough time to go past the point of no return for the damned doll and her master.
Reaching for the shot of bourbon that was given to her she drained it in one swallow. She'd get her revenge, for herself and her mother against that man. 'Gendo, why couldn't you just let go of her?'
-------------------
The morning light wasn't very well received by Shinobu. After she recovered from her fainting spell sleep had taken leave of her. Worries, doubts, and apprehension about the next days 'date' refused to offer her a moments piece. Finally falling into a fitful slumber, she found her dreams plagued by nightmares.
Sitting up in her bed Shinobu couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding. Something defiantly wasn't right but she couldn't put her finger on it. Trying to dispel the awful dread that was slowly welling in her chest she heard a light rap on her door. After a quick glance at herself to insure she was decent she asked who it was.
"Thought you might want a little help getting ready for your big date," Kitsune smiled broadly as she tossed the outfit that was selected the other night at Shinobu. The dress wasn't anything too fancy; they agreed that simplicity was best for this occasion. It was a strapless powder blue dress with a few frills on the hem, which much to Kitsune's displeasure was down to Shinobu's ankles.
Putting her fears aside Shinobu quickly thanked her romantic advisor and ushered her out so she could change. Once clad in the day's attire, she found Kitsune had again knocking on her door. Worried that she had forgotten something, "I thought it was Naru-sempai's turn to cook breakfast."
Stopping momentarily at that, Kitsune had to remind herself NOT to show up for breakfast. Naru's cooking was far from Kitsune's favorite things, 'This date better be worth us missing out on her cooking.' Tossing Shinobu a compact, "You want to try a little make-up today?"
Uncertainty eroded the confidence that had found a place on her features. Her last experience with make-up ending in the whole kissing fiasco. "Are you sure it's a good idea, it isn't really a date and all."
Waving her finger before the young girl's eyes, "Yes it is Shinobu, it is a real date." Taking her silence as cue to proceed, the fox took it upon herself again to apply the correct amount of coloring to Shinobu's face. 'She doesn't need much to get his attention, but every little bit helps.'
Whether Kitsune knew it or not, at that moment Shinobu saw her in a totally new light. As Kitsune lightly covered her lower lip with a light shade of lipstick, Shinobu couldn't help but feel at ease, 'She's just like a real older sister.'
---------------
When he was met by Shinobu at the front door of Hinata, Shinji's mind came to a crashing halt. He knew he found Shinobu attractive, but today she looked ravishing. He was captivated by the sudden change in wardrobe and in the subtle accentuations the make-up exposed.
Kitsune, who was prodding the young girl to move forward, let out a joyous laugh, "I think you got him." Naru, who was also watching the two, wasn't as happy. No, she couldn't be happy with Shinobu going out on dates, what if he did something perverted to her?
Having no better cloths with him, Shinji felt slightly underdressed, in his white collared shirt and black slacks, for a showing of the town. "Are you ready to go Shinobu?"
Feeling one last push from behind, Shinobu nodded and linked her arm with his, "Yes I am." Smiling openly at him, she was relieved that he obviously found her appearance very pleasing and the feeling of impending doom seemed to have lessened.
As the two of them descended the all too familiar Hinata Lodge stairs, they didn't notice the reverberated steps behind them. "Naru, why are we following them?" Kitsune asked mildly amused at the couple in front of her.
Her eyes never leaving them for a second, "We have to make sure he doesn't 'do' anything to her that's why."
Something about how Naru said her accusation made Kitsune smile. 'She knows he's a good kid, she just wants an excuse to follow them.'
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Author Notes
Told ya things would start getting darker. Don't worry I won't go to far and I hope the few dramatic scenes weren't to corny ^_^
Still hope you liked it and I hope you like the omake too.
After this chapter I'm going to mst a chp of Random's Should a chance be taken and get right back to this story. Going to finish it before I go back to my other works so if you like OoD you'll be happy
Ja mata
Zentrodie(zentrodie@secondimpact.com)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------ OMAKE!!
Smiling wickedly into the camera, Kitsune cheers, "Welcome once again to the Mega-Tama-chan viewing podium!"
Seated next to her a sober Misato, "I join you today fully sober, thanks to a ban against on-air drinking, and a missing Su! Kitsune, where is the ecstatic foreigner?"
Taking a firm grip on her mic, "As her favorite combatant is taking the field in the forest behind Hinata lodge, Su is down on the field to show her support!"
Thanking Kami-sama for sparing her eardrums, Misato sent off a quick prayer, "She will be missed. As for um...your friends?"
Kitsune turns to a side monitor showing Naru chasing after Keitaro with a pair of scissors. "Well he did know there was film in the camera."
"He just didn't know you were going to put them those photos on the internet," Misato's smile widening to match Kitsune's. 'I can get to like this girl.'
Finding a kindred spirit next to her, Kitsune slapped the older woman on the back, "What fun would that be. I'd have to split the profits."
"GET THE FIGHT STARTED!"
"Why are you delaying in showing my man defeating your friend?"
Misato, not liking to hear from the cages, prodded the occupants with a stick, "Enough from the peanut gallery!"
Wincing back in minute pain, Shinobu cried out to her friend, "Kitsune- sempai how can you let this happen to me!"
"You were going to kill a contestant off camera," the eternal fox replied, "and we can't lose that kind of footage."
"Kill, I was about to tear her flesh from her body and...CENSORED" Rei looked at the camera and then the footage goes blank.
"Um, we don't have to pay for that do we?" a worried Misato asked as she tried to figure the cost of not only the camera but the film crew that most likely died as a result of the blast.
"They were union so no," Kitsune replied trying to get Rei's rage out of her mind, "Is she always like that?"
"Only when it concerns her pray," Misato cast a sad glance at her picture of Shinji.
"As for said pray let us begin this battle," now glad in a bunny girl suit, "ARE YOU READY TO RUMBLE!!!"
Bursting into a fit of laughter Misato held her side that was starting to throb with pain, "What the hell are you doing dressed like that?"
"Fan service, the girls get to see the meat fighting so we have to give the guys a lil something extra," Kitsune finished by blowing a kiss to the camera.
Now dressed in a tight fitting cat suit, "I guess you're right! LET THE BUSHIDO BATTLE BEGIN!"
"On the left side of your screen we have in the red and white Gi, Aoyama Motoko. Heir to the God's Cry school!" A joyous roar of female voices is heard. Motoko's fanclub was not to be dismissed.
Misato took it upon herself to introduce her ward to the growing throng of spectators. "On the right side, in the stylish white and black Gi, Ikari SHINJI!!! GIVE IT UP LADIES!"
As said ladies start hollering a blast of orange energy is seen in the distance. "Shit, um...Rei's out so we better make this fast or the fan clubs will be dead."
Kitsune wasn't finished though, "Will Motoko teach her pupil his rightful place or with the Student become the teacher! And yes you two can own your very own Shinji Ikari pilot doll made popular in the Evangelion Msts! Who writes this crap anyway?"
"You don't want to know," Misato said quietly before the camera pans down to the combatants.
"I won't go easy on you Shinji, I have my honor as a warrior to give it my all," Motoko said as she drew her blade. 'And when I win the prize I doubt you'll be to upset with me. Being married to me won't be that bad.'
Keeping his sword sheathed, Shinji tried to ignore the spreading blush on Motoko's face and the dreamy look in her eyes. He had to remain focused. "Nor will I pull any punches Motoko-sensei. I had a few private lessons before this match."
With the opening comments finished both warriors sized up their opponent. Walking slowly around one another neither made a move. In a quick flash Motoko sprung forward with an overhand slash which Shinji deflected with his sheath.
"Boku justsu won't save you Shinji. I'm faster than any killing strike you can make," Motoko said as she tested Shinji's defenses a few more times.
Unknown to Motoko, Shinji's never planned on drawing his sword to win this battle. As she charged in to take another swing at him, he sidestepped her motion. Unbalanced by the peculiar move, Motoko's back was left wide open.
Grabbing the woman from behind in what many would consider a very intimate embrace, Kitsune was happy to see the ratings markings going sky high.
Before she could struggle, Shinji whispered softly yet hotly into her ear. "There are many ways to lose a battle Motoko-sensei. Keitaro-san told me this little trick before the match."
Her legs going weak, Motoko found it hard to hold unto her blade. Her hormones were screeching at her to submit to the callings of lust. Shinji was having just as hard a time keeping up the ruse. Not being the most 'active' guy he felt guilty doing this to his teacher but his innate survival instincts told him that he had to win this tournament.
Pulling herself up into a standing position, Shinji found his shorter height left him hanging on Motoko's back. "I ...will not lose to you Shinji!"
Trying the ear blow one last time, Shinji jumped off Motoko just in time to see her fall back down to her knees. The look in her eyes told him that he had done something to Motoko, Keitaro never really told him 'what' doing that to her accomplished, just that it would help him 'win out in the end.'
Over the thunderous pounding in her heart, Motoko wanted to win more than ever. "You...fight without honor today Shinji!"
Looking at her sadly Shinji nodded, "I could never hope to beat you with a sword Sensei, nor would I want to."
Over the loud speaker, "Is that it? Does Shinji surrender?"
"NO!" Shinji's loud cry of defiance resounded in the forest, "I will not submit. I'm sorry Sensei, I won't beat you with a sword but I will beat you!" Tossing a concealed item at Motoko, Kitsune sighed in defeat and handed the eager Misato her winnings.
"TURTLE TURTLE!! GET IT OFF ME!" Motoko screamed in terror as Tama-chan, who had been paid by Shinji in sardines, landed squarely on Motoko's head. After a few minutes of futile turtle swatting, Motoko fainted in shock.
With on last look at Motoko, Shinji walked off the battlefield as cries of injustice, then pain as Rei returned to the arena, sounded behind him. 'I'm sorry Sensei.'
"And there you have it folks! The student taught the master that all things are legal in a battle! Stay tuned as next time we end the semi-finals with Shinobu VS Rei!" Misato announced as she counted the money she had just won.
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Zentrodie: Now that was a funny battle.
Golden Kitsune: Yeah but you needed more sword action!
Zen: But I'm not good at fight scenes.
GK: How you expect to get better at them if you don't write them?
Zen: How bout you do it?
GK: I won't do it but I'll give you some examples.
Zen: Cool you have those in a text...file or...what are you doing?
GK: This is for making me look like a pervert in your damn omakes!
Censored for content
GK: Ah, now I feel better, think you can write battles better.
Zen: .....
GK: Zen?
Zen:.........
GK: Damn now the next chapter will be a bit longer in the making.