Hmmm, Chapter 5 already? I must admit things are looking good for the fic, but c'mon people, I really need your reviews! (Take it easy, Shardclaw. You're going paranoid again.) Ahem, anyways, thanks for all the kind words and requests, as they encourage me to make this fic one the BEST Eva/MGS 2 crossover ever! (All thanks to my biggest fans, Timberwolf and Lord of the Pencil, who has made my writing times easier and fun.)
Oh, yeah, on a personal note, the fic will obviously be taking some major twists in the original Eva storyline, starting from this Chapter. What I meant is a lot of things can happen that will surprise you, so I'm warning you in advance. But do not fret, my loyal Snake-philes, it is all for the good. If any hardcore Eva fan can recognize the scenes in this chapter are from that of the dreaded Episode 18 (When Touji gets injured), you'll will enjoy every Goddanged minute of this and the next Chapter, trust me.
And, knowing that there at least some Touji (and Hikari) fans reading this, (and I'm encouraging you newbies to pay attention) I'm dedicating this one to the pair that should have been: Touji/Hikari. (Damn that Gendou Ikari! I'll give him my Kamakura(God Dust)grab hold and slash and burn him up for what he did...Oh, got carried away there. Too much King of Fighters.) Have fun. I'd better shut up now...
Previously in 'COE',...well nothing much happened, save for Snake moving in near the Katsuragi household, then had one hell of a time with Shinji, Asuka and Misato, while new mysteries are revealed, such as: Vamp working for SEELE and Raiden, who had just successfully stopped a squadron of Arsenal Tengus without any trouble, but just before he gets set to leave for Toyko-3, he encounters a problem, namely a revived Fortune, packing double rail guns. Have fun.
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Shardclaw Kusanagi presents:
Metal Gear Solid: Children of Evangelion
Chapter 5: Confrontations
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"So, we meet again, young solid Snake." Fortune said, with a smile. "But, as always, your luck has run out!"
"Holy Sh..." Raiden shouted, as he threw himself back from Fortune's position to another crate behind him before she fired, but not before dropping the only stun grenade he carried on purpose. He had already pulled the pin the moment she started powering up her weapons. A bright flash followed, giving Raiden the chance to get a good distance away from her, while Fortune shielded her eyes. Her rail guns instantly fired their devastating shot, destroying the crates in one hit. Raiden hid behind the crate and even from that distance, he could sense the rail gun's awesome power.
(As if dealing with one was enough...) Raiden thought to himself. (Why the hell would she be still alive?)
After the flash died down, a laugh can be heard from Fortune. "Ha-ha, so little Foxhound's has learned some new tricks. I like that. This should be worthwhile."
Raiden got his grenade launcher equipped, but didn't attempt to challenge Fortune. "You're supposed to be dead! Why are you even here?" Raiden shouted from behind his hiding position.
Fortune grinned slightly. "How can I die? I'm Lady Luck, remember? At least I was able to prove that fool Ocelot wrong when he betrayed me."
"You? Have you forgotten that the Patriots used us all?" Raiden said. "Why would you even want the Evangelion? You should be after the Patriots, not after innocent people!"
Fortune angrily fired another shot close to Raiden's position. (Not a good question to ask...) Raiden thought, after seeing it was another close call.
"Why, you ask? It's simple; really...I'm going to show the Patriots that to mess with Dead Cell is signing their own death warrants. I'm going to have my revenge, the revenge I was suppose to have eight years ago and Evangelion Unit-3 will be the perfect weapon to confront the Patriots and anyone who stands in my way."
"That's bull!" Raiden shouted. "The Evangelion was built to defend the Earth from Angels. That's why I'm here to..."
"Always the clueless carrier boy, aren't you?" Fortune explained. "That's not the real reason why the Evangelion series were built. In fact, it is just the opposite."
"What do you mean by that?" Raiden said. (The Evangelions...weapons just as bad as Metal Gear?)
"But...not even you would start to comprehend what the Patriots would do if they got their hands on the Evas, so I cannot allow you or anyone else to rely on them. They are ours for the taking, and you won't stop me." Fortune said, powering up her guns once more. "Now, I shall offer you a chance to put me out of my misery, one more time...I could have died whenever I wanted to..."
Just before then, Raiden heard his Codec calling him. It was the Colonel.
"Fortune's rail gun packs some power. A direct hit will kill you. Do not present her with a target under any condition, stay behind cover." he said.
"No crap!" Raiden said. "I got lucky the first time I ran into her...how am I going to get pass her now, if she packing TWO rail guns this time?"
"Calm down, Jack. I'm sure there has to be a way." Rose said. "Remember when I told you that the gun...or guns-were still a prototype?"
"Yeah? Something about 'the problems with the rail plasma and inner-rail electromagnetic release have yet to be solved' or something like that?" Raiden asked. "And, 'evaluations exist that criticize it as unacceptable as a field weapon...because of the high risk of accidental discharge?"
"Wow, you remembered all that?" Rose looked surprised. "Jack...if the rail guns are a movable conductor, you can try setting off an electric discharge near Fortune that could at least stop the guns from functioning or even set off an explosion."
"Raiden, since she has a magnetic field that protects her from bullets, try firing at any of the oil barrels near her." the Colonel told Raiden. "Then, find some cover to protect yourself. The explosion will get ugly."
The Codec turned off and Raiden loaded some grenade ammo into the launcher. Before he fired, though, he got up and ran to his left, and as he did, the crate he was just at got blasted to bits. He spotted an empty cardboard box at the spot he was now in, and thought of an idea.
Throwing another stun grenade, he got in the box and ran back to his right while wearing it. Another bright explosion followed, causing another vulnerable, but temporary moment of blindness for Fortune, who once more shot her guns like crazy at random places.
Raiden was at safe spot for only a few moments before the stun's effect wore of, so he got his launcher on the ready and spotted an oil barrel to Fortunes' right. Using his experience he learned from the new Weapons mode years after the Big Shell, he aimed the launcher as accurate as he can and fired a grenade. The grenade landed near the barrel, where it exploded on impact.
Fortune, which was now still recovering from the stun's bright flash, saw the grenade, but not in time, as it detonated near the barrel. A loud explosion, an eerie scream and a bright flash followed, and Raiden ducked near the only forklift standing, waiting for the dust to settle.
After some seconds, Raiden got up and saw that in front of him was a raging fire. He got out his coolant and sprayed the area where the fire burnt. After it calmed down, he was shocked to see that only the destroyed, burnt remains of the rail guns were only there, but no sign of Fortune.
"Damnit!" Raiden slammed his fists against the wall. He then got on one knee and called the Colonel.
"Colonel, I've taken care of Fortune, but her body is nowhere to be found." Raiden explained. "Can she be...?"
"Don't even think it, Raiden. It is impossible that she would have survived." the Colonel spoke. "But, the good news is that now the leader is taken down for the count and the base is safe now. Excellent work, Raiden."
"I hope that didn't ruin my 'Big Boss' rank..." Raiden said with a slight smile. "Okay, the elevator seems to be still operational. I'm heading to the Evangelion cages."
"Good. We shall notify authorities that it is now clear to take back the First Branch. You just find a place to hide in the designated transport for Unit-3 and await further orders." the Colonel said. "But, until that time, try to get some sleep."
"Understood." Raiden said. After switching the frequency to Rose's, he spoke. "Rose, have you found anything?"
"Only the medical files on Fortune, Jack." Rose said. "That's all I could do for now."
"Let's hear it then."
"After Arsenal Gear was launched, her body was found near the New York harbour. She had weak vital signs at the time, but she was still alive nonetheless." Rose explained. "She was arrested, but she was also kept alive using the latest in pre-Second Impact medical science. She was in a coma for a year and a half, before she fully recovered. Then, she managed to escape the facility she was held a year ago."
"I guess as usual, she got lucky. I wonder...who was it that kept her alive all this time?" Raiden asked. "Certainly not the Patriots..."
"Your guess is as good as mine, Jack. But for now, just get to the transport. Don't forget that you have to let Snake and Otacon know about this. It's imperative that they do."
"I'll won't forget. That's why I'm going there, isn't it?" Raiden said. "Also...I want you to find any information on the Evangelions. What Fortune said about them really bothered me. Something isn't right about this."
"I don't know for what...but I'll see what I can do." Rose said to her husband.
"Talk to you later, Rose."
Raiden then got into the elevator after surveying the damage one more time. He pressed on the up button, which the elevator carried him to the holding cage of Unit-3.
After the elevator doors closed, Fortune leaped over the bridge's railing. After breathing a deep breath, she grabbed her radio and called the person on the other end.
"You are right...he has gotten more dangerous. He managed to surprise me this time." Fortune said. "Should I pursue after him?"
"No...If he wants to go meet Snake, it'll only make it more enjoyable. Let him do what he wants. He has proven his mettle today." the male voice answered at the other end. "The new S3 plan is working well so far."
"Is everything set in Toyko-3?" Fortune asked.
"Yes, but Vamp has been ordered to stay on standby. I suggest you do the same too. Stay low until it's time to strike." the voice said. "When Philanthropy's two top operatives meet, I'll deal with them personally."
"Understood...but you better keep your end of the bargain...or else." Fortune said, turning off the radio. She then proceeded to walk in the opposite direction to her exit.
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Raiden got to the floor where Unit-3 was held. He saw the black coloured giant of steel and a shiver went up his spine. (Thank God it's just Metal Gears I was trained to destroy, instead of the Evangelions. I just hope that I don't have face these things.)
He walked past a restroom area, where he heard a groaning voice in the men's room. (Another Tengu?), Raiden thought, holding his M9.
"AUUUUGH!" the voice said, as if he was in pain. "This is surely the last time I'm go on duty when I still have that damn diarrhoea. It's just like that time at the Plant, when I ran into that cute girl with the glasses...damn, I never got her name, even when I did let her go and she got mine. Aw, she was real cute though, I still wish I knew what she was doing, walking on that strut." the man spoke, and then another growling sound followed. "Auugh, here comes another one! Auuugh! Well, I hope she made it of that plant before it sank. Maybe, I can get lucky and get a date with her if I ever see her again. At least the pay Fortune offered was a lot better than that Gurlukovich broad. I wonder if she is still alive too? Awww, no...not again. There's no paper..."
Raiden simply shook his head, ignoring the remaining guard and went ahead. He saw the VTOL that was being prepped for lift off and saw an open entrance to the inside. Just before he stepped into the transport, suddenly a figure dressed in grey and red armour, it's face covered by a visor and welding a Japanese sword, just like Raiden was carrying, leapt in front of the young spy from out of nowhere.
Raiden only pointed his pistol at his new enemy. "YOU!"
"You passed with flying colours, Raiden." the ninja said, it's voice in a computerized tone, barley recognizable. "It appeared you didn't need my assistance this time."
"Identify yourself!" Raiden said, not giving in to his fear of sensing that it wasn't Olga (who died in front of him after revealing herself to save him near the end of his 'mission').
"I'm like you...I have no name." the ninja simply pointed it's sword at Raiden.
"There's no way you can't be either Deepthroat or Mr.X. Those names are already taken." Raiden joked, keeping his cool.
"I'm called...Mr. M." the ninja said, returning it's sword to its sheath. "If you like, you can call me that."
"Why are you here? Another one of the Patriots tools?" Raiden asked.
The ninja explained to Raiden. "Listen, we won't be safe here. Come; let's get out of the open."
Raiden was reluctant at first, but he sensed that this ninja meant no harm. Still, he had to be careful...
"Lead the way." Raiden said seriously.
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The two entered near the transports control room, where Raiden finally spoke. "Are you Foxhound or Philanthropy?"
"Neither enemy nor friend." the ninja simply said. "Just a messenger from the La-li-u-le-lo." It then simply signalled Raiden to switch to nanocommunication.
"This is safer, I think." Mr. M said.
"Safe from what?" Raiden asked.
"Eavesdropping, of course."
"All right -- why did you contact me?"
"I've been ordered to give you backup, including the relaying of necessary intel." the mysterious ninja said.
Raiden seriously asked, "Ordered by whom? Why won't you identify yourself?"
"There is no need for you to know."
"I'll decide whether I need to know." Raiden answered.
"You are not yet trusted to make such decisions." the ninja replied. "I'll tell you something you do need to know, instead."
"What is it?" Raiden asked.
"The current location of the Patriots." Mr. M said, slightly surprising Raiden. "Or should I say...the person who knows the current location of the Patriots."
"Really? Who is it?" Raiden asked.
"He is the head for the organization known as SEELE. His name is Keele Lorenz." Mr. M said.
"SEELE? That's a new one for me." Raiden answered. '"Keele Lorenz..."
"SEELE is just as influential as the Patriots. The second most elusive and powerful secret organization in the world." Mr. M said. "It is believed that they had some ties with the Patriots in the past, for the development of NERV and the Evangelions."
"Why are you telling me all this?"
"Do I need to repeat myself?"
"There's no reason for me to believe any of this. You understand that?"
"Of course. But you also have no choice but to believe." Mr. M spoke. "You do want to help Snake, don't you? Then, have this..."
Mr. M hands Raiden a NERV uniform. Raiden seems confused for awhile.
"You won't get anywhere close to any NERV facility dressed like that. This will have to do for now until you get in touch with Snake." the ninja said. "But you must hurry, the new Dead Cell has a new prototype nuclear weapon with them, but not here...it is in Toyko-3."
"A NUKE?" Raiden shouted. "They have a nuclear weapon with them?"
"You didn't find their continuing presence here unusual? Even with the NERV personnel here in this base as hostages, they are assuring their 'back up' plan turns out the way they expect it to be. The so called 'explosion' that occurred at the Second Branch was no accident, but a sample of the new prototype nuclear weapon that was used simply for testing."
"Those bastards!" Raiden exclaimed. "They plan to blow up Toyko-3 with that thing?"
"So it would appear...but not everything is what it seems..."
"A cover-up? But why and for what?"
"For Metal Gear, that is currently in hiding at Toyko-3."
"M-Metal Gear? In Toyko-3?" Raiden was stumped once more.
"The very same. Bipedal nuclear-capable vehicle of Shadow Moses infamy as well the Big Shell. Somewhere in Toyko-3 is the place is the R&D center for its newest incarnation."
"What the hell is going on?" Raiden asked.
Mr. M chuckles. "Better ask Lorenz the est."
"Also..." the ninja handed him a case of Stinger missiles."Since you are carrying the Stinger, this will help. You will be using it, sooner than you think."
Raiden looks at the case, which held at least ten missiles. "What do you mean by that?" But as he looked up, Mr. M was gone. He then contacts the Colonel. "Colonel, who was that man just now?"
"He's not one of ours. No -- we have no one like that in our unit." the Colonel spoke.
"He said that Toyko-3 was housing a new model of Metal Gear." Raiden spoke. "Colonel, what are you not telling me?"
"I've been completely open with you, Raiden. I've told you everything."
"Is that everything you know -- or everything I need to know?" Raiden glared at the Colonel.
"Snap out of it, Raiden! I'll have the Metal Gear rumour looked into. You need to stay low and wait until you get to Japan, then make contact with Snake."
"...Understood."
With that, Raiden got to the back of the transport and wore the cardboard box alongside the clutter of supplies as camouflage. He just had to wait until it was time to get top Toyko-3, so he quickly nodded off to sleep.
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The next morning, back in Toyko-3 at the Katsuragi household, Snake was in his apartment doing push-ups in a white vest and casual blue jeans. He had his equipment ready, and since he got to Japan, he hadn't worn his trademark bandana, so this morning he had it on, in need for the 'just in case' situation comes up.
He was attempting to break his 300 pull-up record and he was around near 279, when Otacon called out to him from his room.
"Snake! Get over here!" Otacon looked almost excited.
Almost frustrated, Snake got up and went over to Otacon's table, which was covered with nothing but texts and schematics and some anime DVDS.
"What is it? Have you found them?" Snake asked, meaning if they had found the Patriots at last.
"Even better. I have finally hacked a digital mapping of the Dummy Plug system into my laptop's memory." Otacon was a bit overexcited. "Meaning...I can control the main frame of the plug without the interference of the MAGI at any time."
Snake glared at his friend discourage. "I'm not even going to ask how, but I will ask one thing...is that even safe? The MAGI is the world's first perfect supercomputer, won't it detect you as being the hacker?"
"No way. My new program won't even damage the system or the computer." Otacon said. "Of course, there's a time limit to the shutdown time."
"And just in case, how much time is that?"
"Hmmm...about 600 seconds." Otacon said. "I'd say whoever will be in an emergency will be safe for the time being."
"I hope you are not doing this to impress that Lt. Ibuki." Snake said, and then he saw Otacon's face turned red. "Wait a minute...you are doing her a favour, aren't you?"
"Aw, come on, Snake. For a programmer, she's pretty cute." Otacon tried to keep cool.
"You sly dog!" Snake nudged his friend. "I'd thought you may get lucky this time."
"Yeah, like you and Misato?" Otacon made his friend jumped.
"How did you...?" Snake was almost speechless.
"Come on, don't deny it. You got that charm with women and it was only one day we got here." Otacon said. "I'm surprised you got that lucky with her. But, I already warned you..."
"Yeah, yeah, don't say it. She's got a man, and it's not my way to get in between them." Snake said, getting back to his workout. "So, just when are you going install this program of yours?"
"Today. I was just finishing up some things, and then with Maya's permission, she and I can install it together." Otacon said. "I call it the 'VOID' system. Oh, there's something else you should know. Since the Plug is but a prototype, it has the First Child's personal data transferred into it."
"First Child? Rei Ayanami?" Snake asked while continuing his push ups... "Who in the hell would have her data in control of that thing?"
"The Commander, who else?" Otacon said. "Anyway, it's just a pale duplication that emulates the real thinking process of the pilot. It then transmits a signal pattern into the Evangelion. And in conclusion, if the Eva believes that there is a pilot who synchronizes..."
"Then it is activated. I see that now." Snake said. "So, the 'VOID' program was designed to momentarily block the signal pattern. Smart, but what makes you think we actually need it?"
"You may never know." Otacon said, and then heard their door being knocked heavily. "Expecting someone?"
"It's still too early too leave for Matsushiro." Snake said, getting up to the door. "Who could it be?"
"Maybe its Misato" Otacon taunted a bit.
"Shut it you! Or, I'll will!" Snake said, as he opened the door. To his surprise, he saw a school uniform wearing Asuka standing in front of him.
"Oh, it's the loudmouth brat." Snake simply said smiling. "What do you want?"
Asuka put her hands on her hips and spoke. "Listen, Snake. I know how you feel about Misato. Don't you try to deny it!"
"What are you up to, kid?" Snake asked. "I don't have time to play with you."
"That's not why I'm here! Listen...if you want to, I can help you get close to Misato." Asuka boasted. "But...you have to do something for me in return."
"And that is?"
"Make her forget about Kaji and he'll be all mine for the taking." Asuka smiled devilishly. "Whatever you want to do with Misato is none of my business."
"Very cute, but I'm not amused." Snake said. "As I said, I'm not interested in playing games...or dealing bargains with kids."
"I'm serious! Can you do the person you're hired to protect a favour and help out a little?" Asuka said.
"Come on, Snake. Do the famous Second Child a favour and in the end it will benefit you." Otacon said from behind.
"Not you too!" Snake said, while Asuka nodded in favour. "He's right. You have no other choice but to oblige."
"Damn kid!" Snake smiled, as he roughed Asuka's hair. "Alright...I'll do it, if it's to shut you up."
"Yes! Kaji's all mine!" Asuka shouted. "Now, if you want to, she's getting all dressed up, so you're lucky enough, you can catch her wearing only her..."
"I don't have to do that, Asuka, but thanks for the suggestion." Snake said. "Hey, isn't Shinji supposed to be with you?"
Asuka looked flustered a bit, and then with a stomp of her foot, she then shouted. "He's just got out of bed, that idiot. I'm on a head start this morning, so don't expect me to wait up for him. Don't you forget your end of the deal, Snake."
Snake shook his head as Asuka walked off. After closing the door, he decided to get ready.
"I'm going to get dressed. My Sneaking suit should be ready now." he said, with that, he went to his room to get changed.
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The trademark call tone of the Codec rang. The other end spoke.
"Jack? Can you hear me?"
Raiden woke up from his sleep suddenly, then he realised he was airborne. The transport carrying Unit-3 was already in flight.
"Uggh...Rose?" Raiden was still sluggish due to the long sleep he had. "What is it?"
"Wake up, sleepyhead." Rose joked. "You're on a mission, remember?"
"Yeah, I haven't forgotten." Raiden said. "So, have you found anything?"
"Yes. About what that ninja, Mr. M said about SEELE funding the NERV...it's all true. Keele was behind everything involving the Evangelion project. And there's something else...one of the Patriots was originally born from Japan."
"So, have you found out who it was?"
"No, not yet but it is confirmed that he's alive." Rose said.
"The other eleven, I haven't found anything on them yet, but soon I will find something."
"So one of the Patriots is a living person." Raiden said. "You just do your best, Rose."
"I will. And, Jack, please be careful. I have a bad feeling about this..."
"What are you saying? You've been hanging around with Mei-Ling too much these days, you're starting to pick up her ways..." Raiden said.
"I'm serious, Jack." Rose said, "Jack...y-y-you ha-ve t-o..."
Suddenly, the Codec went strange for awhile, and then static took over Rose's screen. "Rose?" Raiden shouted, fearing the Patriots attacked again, but he then heard voices from the cockpit.
"Damn, what was that? All of our signals just went down." one of the pilots said.
"We just passed through an energy cloud. An EMP (electro magnetic pulse), nothing to worry about." the co-pilot said. "But that was a strong one. Hope it hasn't seriously affected the cargo. Our systems should get back online anytime now."
Raiden breathed a sigh of relief. (Phew...I thought it was them again. An EMP? Something isn't right about this...)
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Meanwhile, at NERV, Kaji was looking over news archives from his laptop in his office. He was drinking coffee at the time, and then something caught his attention. Reports of a sunken tanker near the New York harbour in 2007, then two years after, the terrorist incident at the former Big Shell in 2009. The photos revealed Solid Snake as the culprit for both incidents, but the thing that shocked Kaji enough to spit out his coffee, was the fact that this man, who had know to be 'the Legend' who stopped three separate Metal gear incidents in the past twenty years...was with Misato.
"So...this is the famous Solid Snake...but why is he in Japan?" Kaji said to himself, after cleaning up his coffee. "If he's after what I think he is, he might prove useful to my plans...yes, Misato's in good hands now..."
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"It's no fair! I wanted to be the pilot of Unit-3! And somebody has taken that position?" Kensuke cried.
"I'm sorry, Kensuke. But that selection was already chosen." Misato said calmly. Snake then entered the apartment, wearing new NERV specialist attire. He wore an American style black jacket, with a plain white shirt and blue jeans. He kept on his bandana below his hairline as usual. He was carrying two suitcases, one with his Arsenal Sneaking Suit among other changing clothes, while the other had some weapons, his USP with only 31 ammo bullets, 8 packets of C4, 12 SEMTEX cases and 6 chaff grenades. Misato looked surprised at his extra baggage, but she didn't expect less of the man who went through so much trouble to save Shinji and Asuka from being harmed.
"What's all the noise about?" Snake asked, overhearing the Kensuke's plead from outside.
"Mr. Pliskin, you just got to convince Misato to make me a pilot!" Kensuke begged. "Can you make her change her mind?"
"Sorry, kid, you heard her. That spot's been taken. Stop harassing her, alright?" Snake said.
Kensuke gave up and stayed quiet for awhile. Snake simply shook his head and turned to Shinji and Misato.
"Hello, Shinji." Snake smiled at the pilot, who smiled back at him, then turned to Misato. "Good Morning, Misato."
"Hello, David." Misato's face went red a bit at the sight of Snake's attire. He looks bigger than usual, she thought. "Are you all set to go?"
"Anytime." Snake said. Misato picked up her suitcases and went out the door, as Snake followed. But it was Shinji who called out to him.
"Um, David...?" Shinji asked Snake.
"What is it?"
"Um...you'll be gone with Misato too, aren't you?" Shinji asked.
"Wha? Starting to miss me already, kid?" Snake smiled, roughing up Shinji's hair.
"Cut it out! I'm serious." Shinji pouted. "I know it's not asking too much, but...can you please...protect Misato for me?"
(First Asuka, now Shinji? Are these kids asking me to get close to Misato or is Shinji just worried?) Snake wondered. "I can see you're worried about the test for Unit-3's activation, huh?"
"Yeah...and I don't even know who the pilot is. I bet Misato told you to keep quiet about it, huh?"
Snake simply nodded his head. "Just about the same thing she told me." Snake said. "But don't you worry. If anything were to happen that could endanger Misato or the new pilot, I'll make sure to protect them. And I'm not doing it because you asked me too; I'm going to do this for myself."
"I'd appreciate that. Thanks, David." Shinji smiled a bit. "Take care of yourself and tell the new pilot good luck for me."
"I certainly will. Now, get to school, or else your Kensuke friend will leave without you." Snake said.
Shinji just nodded and left the apartment, with Kensuke, while Snake pondered to himself. (I wish I can tell you, Shinji, but I'm just as concerned as Misato about your feelings.)
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Later that day at school, it was close to lunchtime and Hikari had her extra bento box with her. Since she got to school, her thoughts were only being with Touji and sharing her lunch with him. She was very confident that she was going to do this, and was a little scared to do it at first, but remembering the friendly advice Snake gave her a day before. Her heart raced with anxiety, her hands clasping the lunch she made and put her heart into, she waited for the lunch bell to ring. Then she stood up to make her announcement.
"Lunchtime! Class dismissed!" she shouted. She had been watching the only boy who was out of uniform, wearing black and white sporting outfit since morning and noticed that Touji was acting differently than usual. She felt sorry for him that he had be acting like this, so her lunch should make him feel a little better...and a chance to tell him how much she liked him.
(Just you wait, Suzahara.) Hikari smiled to herself. (Soon, you'll know...)
Touji was the first to get up and leave the classroom, while everybody else sat down together to have their lunches. She wondered where he could he going, so she got up, both lunches in hand and began to proceed to the door.
"Hey, Hikari! Let's have lunch together!" Asuka shouted. Hikari stopped for a moment to say something, but this will only stop her from getting the chance she needed. This was an opportunity she couldn't afford to let slip by, so she swallowed and answer d...
"Sorry, Asuka. I already promised someone else I'd share lunch. Maybe tomorrow." Hikari smiled.
Asuka knew that Hikari was up to something, but she let it fly by. Fine, tomorrow. But...who is it you have to see?"
"Someone very special to me." she blushed as she went out the door. Asuka knew instantly who she was talking about, but gave up. "That's why I never, ever going to get into that kind of romance crap."
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
The Matsushiro base, the same time, Snake was having a smoke, while Misato and Ritsuko waited for Unit-3's arrival, which was disapprovingly late.
"It's about time it got here." Misato growled, fanning herself with her beret. Snake simply smiled to himself seeing her get ticked like this.
"Take it easy, Misato. They must have their reasons." Snake said, getting up from his seat.
"When I get my hands on the pilots on that craft, I swear..." Misato growled, while she bit on her toothpick.
As the three watched the aircraft landed in the cage, and Unit-3 being secured in the cage, Raiden walked out the entrance, wearing a NERV uniform with I.D card in hand. He still had his Skull Suit on and was also carrying his Stinger carrying case, as if it was a normal suitcase. He was surprised he didn't look suspicious among any of the other NERV staff, so he went his own way.
Since his contact with Rose was cut short earlier, he can't call anyone on Codec for awhile, which really worried him. If this means that his nanomachines have been shut down as well, his vital signs, which are being monitored by the Patriots, can trigger the death of Olga's child.
He surveyed the area around him, which was busy now that Unit-3's here. But it didn't take him long to see Snake at a distance.
(Snake! I've hit the bull's eye!) Raiden thought to himself with a smile. (But...I can't contact him with all these people around...might blow his cover. I'd better lay low and wait till tonight to look for him.)
Raiden then walked unnoticed by Snake to 'camouflage' himself along with the people working at NERV; meanwhile Snake glanced around, feeling a familiar presence in the area.
"Hmmm?" Snake swore he saw a pale skinned American youth with pale blonde hair passed by. Misato looked at him and saw the concerned look on his face.
"What is it, David?" Misato asked.
"Nothing. Just thought I saw someone I knew." Snake said. "Must be my imagination."
Misato smiled slightly and spoke. "Well...we have until tomorrow before the test. Let's get to our temporary quarters where we can leave our stuff."
Snake and Misato walked together to their quarters, as Raiden went to another section of the facility to wait out for the day to pass.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Touji Suzahara, who was deep in thought, was leaning on the railing of the school building's roof. It was not an easy time for him; he was just selected to be the Fourth Child, and is to leave for Matsushiro tomorrow. He was just concerned of his younger sister over everything else, but then...
"Um...Suzahara?" a girl's voice answered from behind. He turned around slightly and saw Hikari with her lunches. "Are you alright? You look as if something's bothering you?"
"Hm? Oh, it's you class rep." Touji said. "If you're looking for Shinji, he's not here."
"I...I didn't t come here for him. I brought you your lunch, Suzahara." Hikari tried to keep her cool, but her heart raced because of the fact she was alone and this close to him. "Didn't you say that it was alright for me to bring lunch for you?"
"Oh. Yeah, it was me alright. Guess I forgot, huh?" Touji said.
"Yeah, but I'm here now...were you waiting for me?" Hikari asked.
"No...I just needed to be by myself. But, you're here, so...let's have it together, then." Touji said, trying to put up a smile.
(Together?) Hikari's heart jumped at the sound of that word. She smiled and sat with Touji on the bare ground of the roof. "I'd like that, Suzahara."
"You can call me Touji, class rep." he said, taking her bento box. That moment, his hands slightly touched Hikari's and he stopped to look at her face. It was already turning red. He simply smiled and opened the wrapping, then the box.
"You can call me Hikari, Touji." Hikari continued to blush. (Please let him like it, please.) She thought to herself over and over, hoping it will turn out for the best.
Touji started to chow down on her lunch with a look of sudden enjoyment on his face. "Hikari, since when you can cook this good? This is great stuff. Thanks."
"I...I'm glad you're enjoying it, Touji." Hikari smiled. "Um, Touji, I was wondering..."
"What is it, Hikari?" Touji asked, already halfway through the lunch Hikari gave him.
"My two sisters, Kadama and Nizome, they won't be home for the next couple of days and I was wondering if you wanted to, come over to my place and help with some homework. Is that alright with you?" Hikari was downright nervous.
Touji took a moment to answer. "I'd like to, but...I have to see my sister later. I promised her that I'd visit her before I leave for Matsushiro tomorrow."
"Oh...so tomorrow's the day then...the day when you are going to test the Evangelion, huh?" Hikari said, almost disappointed.
"How did you know?" Touji was surprised.
"It's part of my responsibility of the class rep to know of these kinds of things." She said. "Well, you have my best wishes. I know you'll make a great pilot."
"I only did this for my sister. I'm not aiming to be like Shinji or the rest." Touji said seriously. "That must sound pretty crazy to you, huh?"
"No, I think that was very brave of you." Hikari leaned over to kiss him on his right cheek, which surprised Touji even more. "Just...be careful when you have to protect us from the Angels, alright? Promise me."
Touji could see that this girl was caring a lot for him. He complied and held her hand. "I promise. I'll be careful. I'm not that reckless, you know. I'll be the best pilot in the world and I have more than one reason now to fight."
Hikari smiled and sat with Touji through the rest of the lunch period.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
The day passed rather well, now it was night time. Snake was on the outside of his quarters, smoking as usual and taking in the moonlit sky. He wished for a chance to talk to Misato again, he was getting used to her company.
(Misato...she's pushing herself emotionally because of that Suzahara kid being a pilot.) He thought. (I know...I'm not suppose to even think about getting involved, but I can't help it...I promised Asuka and Shinji I'll look after her here. Maybe this trip was a big waste of Philanthropy's time and money.)
Snake shook his head and turned around, only to bump into Misato.
"Oh! David..." Misato was wearing a rather revealing red, lace sleeping dress. Snake was stunned to see her was even wearing something like this. "What are you doing out here?"
"Just like you...impatiently waiting for tomorrow to happen." Snake said. Once again, the two stood side by side watching the moonlight. Snake took the time to smoke some more before he asked a question...
"Misato?"
"Yes?"
"You and that Kaji guy...you two were real serious once huh?" Snake asked, making her jump.
"Ah...you found me out, huh?" Misato tried to smile, but her feelings for Kaji were mixed. This was the last thing she needed.
"I don't mind if you're still in love with him." Snake said, smoking once more. "I said I don't want to interfere with your lives."
"Kaji and I...yes, we were close...very close once...but now, even now he still acts like a kid." Misato said. "I really regret the things I did were reckless, but..."
"It's your life. You can't deny your own existence just because you did something you didn't like." Snake said.
"Sigh. I know." Misato smiled. "Um...about last night...I'm sorry. I shouldn't have let myself fall unto you like that."
"No...I was just glad I was there I to catch you. You don't have to apologise."
Misato looked at Snake's eyes one more time before she spoke. "What about the next time?"
Snake then turned to Misato, his eyes meeting hers. They heard each other's hearts beating loudly, as they drew closer to one another.
"David...you know...out of the people in my life..." Misato spoke gently. "You are the most trustworthy. And...I think...I..."
"What is it?" Snake had an idea what was coming next.
"I..." Just before she could finish, a tree branch broke and a loud 'yelp', then a thud was heard from the nearby bushes. Snake took out his USP.
"We got company." he said, putting out his cigarette. "You'd better stay here. I'll deal with this."
Misato, who was going to agree, took out her Glock.45 instead. "No, if it's that Vamp freak again, I have to place a bullet in that undead brain of his for threatening to kill Shinji. I'm coming with you."
Snake simply shrugged his arms. "Fine, but you stay behind me. We can't be sure if it's him until we meet face to face."
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
"OUCH!" Raiden rubbed his head after that fall from the tree. "Never again...am I going to spy like that..."
Suddenly, Snake held up his USP and flashed the light into the intruder's face. "Freeze!"
"Wait! Don't shoot! It's me!" Raiden held up his hands, one of them was holding thermal goggles.
"What the hell...Raiden?" Snake looked at his young subordinate with a confused look. "Why the hell are you here?"
"He-heh, missed me, Snake?" Raiden joked, getting up.
"You didn't answer my question, kid." Snake puts back his USP.
"Look, I got here because you and Otacon need my help." Raiden said. "Also, I got here 'cuz something big is going on. That mad group Dead Cell is back."
"Shhhh!" Snake said. "Why aren't you using your Codec for a time like this?"
"Something went wrong on the trip over here." Raiden said. "Snake...you have to know this..."
"Know what?" a woman's voice said.
The two men turned to see Misato holding her gun at Snake and Raiden, with a peeved look on her face.
"It's best you two better start explaining who you really are and why you are here." Misato said seriously. "Especially, you...'David', if that's even your real name."
"That is my real name...but the world knows me as...Solid Snake." Snake said bravely.
Misato felt all the blood leave her hands, and then she dropped her gun. "S-Solid Snake?"
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
To be continued...
Oh no, Snake's cover has been blown! And things were looking good for him and Misato too. Will Misato still be able to trust the 'Legend' or will she surrender our two heroes to the authorities? Can't say for sure, but that's a no-no, a little teaser I have until the next Chapter. I really hope you enjoy where this going, 'cuz I got a surprise next Chapter that will blow you away!
And in case you're wondering who the bathroom guy was it was indeed Johnny Sasaki! He was talking about when he met Emma during the sniping section of MGS 2 at the Plant chapter. Use your Directional Mic when she's behind the second strut (it also works when Solidus and Ocelot are talking, point it to the door on the left and also at the first strut.) to hear ole' Johnny. It's quite hilarious.
Oh, and I must say on the 28/5/03, I managed to defeat 20 and count them, 20 Metal Gear RAYS on the EXTREME mode! Oh, Happy Days! (Yes, I'm a sadistic freak when I want a challenge. So, flame me if you want, but please review the fic.)
All the characters used in this story belong to their respective owners and creators. It sucks being broke, does it?