Welcome again to another episode of 'COE'. Thanks for all your reviews for the last Chapter, I bet you didn't think of Gendou being an ex-Patriot, and with so many past and future mysteries that have still yet to be revealed, this crossover will be going on for a while. So, I'm happy to announce that I'm currently working on a new fic, so soon another creation by yours truly will be up for your enjoyment. I know you'll like it; it's all a matter on how soon I get started...
Now, for another announcement, the pairings for the fic have been decided, and if I hear any fans who want Shinji/Asuka in the fic, it's not going to happen. I agree with GreyWolf4, Shinji looks better off with Rei. I thought at times that Shinji and Asuka were better off being siblings! I personally respect both S/R and S/A fics, but I really hate yaoi fics, (Shinji/Kaworu) that I never read them and fics that pair Shinji up with Hikari. That is SO wrong! Okay here are the pairings lists. Please don't hate me...
Shinji/Rei
Snake/Misato
Otacon/Maya
Touji/Hikari
Me: Hey, impressive looking list, isn't it? Now...
Asuka comes into my room, heaving her hot body self as usual: Hey! Who am I going to end up with? If you dare pair me with any nerd, I'm...
Me: You'll what? Scream me to death? I don't think so. And no, you're not going to end up with Kaji. Time to try something different...I'm pairing you up with a FOXHOUND recruit who was kindly provided by RuneKnightPictures. (Thank you!)
Asuka: WHAT? I can't accept that!
Me: You have no choice but to, Asuka...you'll have to screw my brains out if I have to change your pairing, but it's already set in stone, so there!
Asuka, ready to explode: Ugggh! Idiot! Now...I'll just have to screw you just to work of my anger!
Me: Eh!
Asuka, now, slowly taking off her plug suit: Hey, baka Kusanagi, should you just get on with the story, while I seduce with my hot body! Prepare to die, pervert!
Me: Good God...not again...Last time, Kaji tells Snake just why he challenged him while revealing him his secrets as SEELE's double agent. After letting Snake know the truth about NERV, the two go on a true hand to hand battle that can only earn the respect from both men. Afterwards, it was Snake who prevailed the victor when a bout of FOXDIE saved him from defeat. (Don't worry, Kaji fans, he still lives to regret he ever challenged Snake, ha-ha!). Raiden's family visits Japan, and Arsenal Gear is captured by Dead Cell thanks to GW's resurrection, more Greg's past is revealed as he spars with his power, and oh yeah...Gendou gets snatched from his office by Solidus and SEELE is now under control by the 'Sons of Liberty.'
Asuka: Oh, Shardclaw...TAKE ME!
Me: Why me? (Oh, yeah, to Rune, please let me know if I'm doing anything bad with your character. I'm not used to mimicking other people's creations!)
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ShardclawKusanagi presents:
Metal Gear Solid: Children of Evangelion
Chapter 12: Snakes in Arms
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The FOXHOUND carrier helicopter landed at a rainy heliport at FOXHOUND headquarters. The door slid opened, and out jumped a young teen dressed in a golden brown and black Skull Suit; the chest area had vertical straps of a different variety of knives, while he was carrying a large case in his left hand. His right arm was exposed, revealing small cuts on it. He waved to the pilot of the helicopter and he ran off to the entrance of FOXHOUND.
As he got in, Colonel Roy Campbell was waiting for the visitor. "You're late...Silent Scorpion."
The young boy looked at his commanding officer and nervously grinned while saluting. "Sorry, Colonel...finishing that last mission took longer than I thought."
"It's alright, you managed to get it done, but as usual, you're not the subtle type." Roy said.
"What's that suppose to mean?" Scorpion asked.
"As much as dealing with terrorist threats is one of FOXHOUND's top priorities, safeguarding the innocent from menacing forces is also part of the mission." Campbell explained. "Words of advice...know who your enemy is and eliminate only the threat. Innocents don't make the count, do you understand?"
Silent Scorpion simply nodded at Roy. "Understood."
"Now, Scorpion, we have another matter that calls your attention." Campbell said. "Less than 45 minutes ago, Arsenal Gear had been made active again and is somehow under the control of Dead Cell."
"What! How come I'm hearing this now?"
"You were in the middle of a mission, and we couldn't have contacted you via Codec, but we ourselves are not sure about what was going down when the Gear was seized." Roy spoke. "Our satellites sighted Arsenal heading westward towards Japan. Silent Scorpion, you are to go to Tokyo-3 and meet up with the rest of FOXHOUND. They will need your assistance, whether Snake likes it or not."
"I'll just tell him that you called the shots, and I think he'll go along with it." Scorpion smiled. "How soon do I get to leave?"
"We have a chopper with supplies and ammunition for Greg and Linn on the ready, so that will be your trip. Even ammo for the sniper rifles you have are there."
"Well, no rest for the weary then." Scorpion said, rubbing off the raindrops off his medium length black hair. "With your permission, sir."
"Good luck, Scorpion, and remember what I told you." Campbell said.
Scorpion looked back at the Colonel with a silent glare, and ran back out into the rain. Roy looked on, as he contemplated about the recruits. First the mysterious Greg is a psychic soldier, now Silent Scorpion, real name, James Masterson. The new FOXHOUND isn't becoming like how the old one was, even after Second Impact.
(Kids these days...) he thought while shaking his head.
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"Commander Ikari...is missing?"
"Not missing, Major Katsuragi, kidnapped." Hyuga told Misato. "The Sub- Commander reported when at the time he discovered this, there had been a struggle. The Commander certainly didn't willingly let himself get captured."
Misato breathed hard, trying to keep calm, as Snake was, and who as well as the rest of FOXHOUND and Philanthropy crew was doing the same at the Central Dogma Command centre. Shinji was in a certain mix of emotions, knowing whether or not to feel glad about this, but mostly he was afraid of this situation. Rei, who was holding unto Gendou's old glasses for vigil, kept silent about this, as Fuyutsuki, Ritsuko, and the rest of the bridge crew, Shigeru, Maya and Hyuga were there to get a fix on the situation.
Both factions were looking over the video feedback of the evening's security surveillance, and still couldn't believe that this happened.
"The fact that the Commander is missing is enough to send this base in a state of panic." Fuyutsuki said. "NERV is the most highly detailed base in security on the planet...and you said that the cameras and guards couldn't even see what took place in the Commander's office, much less if the intruder was spotted?"
"I told you that this base has a lame-ass security system!" shouted Greg's voice from behind Snake and company. Obviously, he was still upset about what happened to his Harrier that he couldn't care to change his hair back to its original black color, Linn only tried to keep her partner calm by holding unto his arm and whispering into his ear. When Snake saw that Greg was calm, for now, he went back to his focus to the Sub-Commander.
"The loudmouth's right. Even though your base is large, and has the most detailed of security in existence, someone with enough experience may have exposed its weak spots and easily gotten past your security and back without causing an alarm." Snake said. "Someone like me."
Everyone, including Misato, looked at the Legend in silence.
"You're kidding? You can't be serious, Snake?" Misato asked.
"I didn't say I did it. I was with you guys for the entire evening, besides, I can't move that fast to get in and out from a place this big." Snake said. "Unless..."
"Don't even say it, Snake. There's no way he could be alive." Raiden spoke. "It's not even possible..."
Just then, Maya called out to her superiors. "Commander Fuyutsuki, we're receiving an incoming message from...sources unknown."
"Patch it through the main monitor. I bet it's the terrorists." Fuyutsuki spoke.
As Maya transferred the message to video feed and switched on the main monitor, everyone saw a white flag white with red, horizontal stripes and a snake in the middle. Near the edge, the words 'Sons of Liberty' can be seen. Then, a figure appeared onscreen, but his facial features were unrecognizable.
"Identify yourself!" Fuyutsuki spoke aloud. "Who are you?"
"So, that must be the old colleague of Gendou Ikari. I expected you would be the first to respond. Well, then, I'll introduce myself...you all have known me as George Sears..." the man stepped forward, revealing himself. Raiden stepped back in shock.
"...but to the 'Sons of Liberty', I'm Solidus Snake!"
"It can't be...SOLIDUS!" Raiden shouted.
"Ah, Jack...it's been a while, son." Solidus smiled. "Still using your killing techniques that I taught you since we last saw each other?"
"I KILLED you! How can you still be alive?" Raiden was furious, unable to keep cool, that even the pilots were getting afraid of him.
"True...you did kill me, but fate brought me back to finish what I started." Solidus spoke. "You can't deny me, Jack. I'm like the scars of the battles you had endured as a child soldier, never healing, never disappearing from your body..."
"What have you done with my father?" Shinji spoke up.
"So, the legendary Third Child speaks. It's an honor meeting you, Shinji." Solidus said. "You and Jack...you share the same qualities when he was your age...no, much younger, Shinji. It's no surprise that Gendou and I shared a common trait in raising a son, into becoming a solider for war, only bearing the cold truth that he and I are bitter enemies."
"You didn't answer my question!" Shinji shouted, Snake had to pat him back to calm him.
"You have no need to worry, he is still alive. But if you want him back alive, as well as the rest of SEELE, you'd better listen up and hear my demands." Solidus said.
"SEELE? You don't mean..." Fuyutsuki was cut off.
"That's right, Vice-Commander, SEELE is under our control as well." Solidus smiled. "You are in no position to resist accepting my demands."
"What is it that you want?"
"Namely, we want your theory on the Evangelions." Solidus said. "And...the First Child, Rei Ayanami."
Rei stepped back in a hint of fear. Shinji, who was calmed down now, stood next to her and relaxed her by holding her shoulders.
"Like hell we'll be giving you her! What are you going to do with her and the Evangelions?" Misato spoke up now.
"I'm saving them from the Patriots of course." Solidus smiled. "And we'll use Arsenal to liberate America and the world from their grasp. But it cannot be done unless we eliminate the source first and Rei will be the key. They have plans to do just the same here in Japan. I'm simply doing all of you a favor."
"And if we DO resist?"
"Then, you'll just have to watch your city become a crater when we launch a nuclear weapon." Solidus said. "They are hiding in Japan after all, and it will be like killing two birds with one stone."
Snake growled at this, as Fuyutsuki spoke once more. "You do know that we have to come to a decision before we discuss further developments."
"You have 19 hours to come to a decision, until then, we'll keep ourselves busy with your Commander." Solidus smiled. "I won't be accepting a no for an answer!"
The message ended, and Maya spoke. "Commander, the origin of the message was from Arsenal Gear alright."
"How dare he...? At a time like this?" Greg simply said. "Should we even dare fight against someone as arrogant as him?"
"Something's fishy...why would he want Rei and the Evas? He has Arsenal and possibly Tengus, not to mention Dead Cell back with him, but what could he possibly do with all that plus an Eva pilot and Evas?" Linn asked.
"I don't know, but I think he's getting a back up plan in case this one fails like his last one, thanks to the Patriots." Snake said.
"We can't allow him to get ahead of his head, Snake." Otacon said.
"I know, now that he has both Commander Ikari and SEELE with him, we have no other choice but do something about it." Snake said, and then noticed Raiden. "Hey, you okay, kid?
"Huh? Yeah, just fine. I think." Raiden said. "I just have to get used to seeing Solidus' old mug again..."
Rei looked on in silence, and then spoke. "I...I will fight back against the enemy. As I said before, I'll not be taken so easily."
"We won't let that happen, Ayanami." Shinji said. "And I'm sure we'll get my father back too."
"Just where is...Arsenal Gear?" Ritsuko asked.
"Its 280 kilometers away from old Tokyo. Just close enough to the inland region." Shigeru said, after looking at the NERV radar.
"It may be connected. But what still puzzles us is who would want the Commander in the first place. If someone with enough skills like Snake can pull probably the greatest disappearing trick in history, we have a real situation on our hands here, folks." Otacon said.
"Look, we are all new to what this Dead Cell is planning, but it's obvious that this group means business. This isn't the first time we were under siege by humans." Fuyutsuki spoke.
"So...the Commander is a hostage, then?" Misato asked.
"There's a first for everything." Greg simply spoke. With that, Rei looked at the recruit with a silent look. Greg simply stared back. "What is it, First Child? Did I strike a nerve or something?"
"You enjoy making a fool of a Commander, aren't you, Mr. Kinezono?" Rei asked, seriously.
"I'm not enjoying this situation too much as you all are, but I think the Commander deserves a taste of his own medicine." Greg simply said, letting his large cloak out. "In case you don't know, I'm a good judge of character, and I sensed that Commander is nothing but bad news."
"That is not true." Rei said.
"Greg, be careful what you are saying around these people." Linn warned her partner.
"Sorry...still upset about my Harrier...first, he confiscate FOXHOUND property, then one of their own uses it for no completely good reason." Greg simply shook his head. "I'm sorry, Rei. But I go along what my heart tells me of people...whether you like that or not."
"I understand." Rei said.
"So, what is our next COA? We have no clue where the Commander may have been taken to, much less know what's going to happen next." Raiden asked.
"I suggest you get this base on high alert, Raiden said some time ago, that the same thing happened at the NERV first branch and he saw what artillery these guys have." Snake said. "I wouldn't be surprised if Dead Cell has planned an invasion for NERV, so we have to be on the ready."
"An invasion? Why would terrorists want with NERV while there are still Angels to fight?" Shigeru asked.
"A lot of things, but Ocelot and probably the rest of Dead Cell were after the First Child and the Evas." Raiden pointed to Rei. "I think the best plan is to take the fight at Arsenal Gear itself, while the risk of an invasion is minimal. What do you think, Major?"
"I like your plan, Raiden. And if an Angel were to attack, the pilots would be ready to intercept." Misato nodded.
"Um, you seem to be forgetting one tiny detail here, folks." Greg spoke. "How are we going to get on Arsenal, knowing we might as well get blasted off into the water by the spare RAYS...if there are any left?"
"Don't forget, Arsenal is but a housing ground for the mass-production type RAYS, they may have others that weren't even activated when Raiden fought them the first time, or just days ago." Snake said. "We have to get in undetected on the surface of Arsenal and get into its entrance."
"And how will we do that?" Linn asked.
"Sub-Commander Fuyutsuki, would it be alright if we use the help of the Evas to get us to Arsenal?" Snake asked.
"What is your plan, Snake?" Misato asked.
"We can't destroy Arsenal, so our only choice is to eliminate the enemy. But they may have an ambush waiting for us, whether it's Tengus or RAYS." Snake spoke. "The pilots can assist us by drawing the enemy's fire, while we get inside Arsenal and rescue the Commander, if he's is there."
The centre was filled with silence, except with the heavy breathing from Misato, who still couldn't believe that Snake saw the perfect plan. And she still wondered why she fell in love in him.
"Well, normally, the Evas weren't designed to stop Metal Gears, but they possess potentially dangerous weapons that endanger us, just like the Angels. We have a common foe now, and this one is human." Fuyutsuki spoke. "I didn't think the Commander would have appreciated this, but I think this would be an honor, Solid Snake, and the rest of you, Philanthropy and FOXHOUND, to assist NERV, in this mission. If there's anything you want in return, Snake..."
"I only came to Japan to find the Patriots, so I can have my name cleared." Snake nodded. "You saying you can help me do that?"
"You just have to rescue the Commander and stop this group once and for all. And I'll see to it that you are cleared for that incident seven years ago. You have my word on it." Fuyutsuki spoke.
"You remind me a lot of Roy, Sub-Commander. Feeling generous, aren't we?" Snake smiled. "Okay, I accept...but I'm only doing this because your base does need the Commander, whether people will want it or not."
Shinji, who was silent throughout the entire meeting, spoke up. "I...I want to help too. Sure, they may have my father, but they'll have to answer to me and my Unit-1 if they want Ayanami. Count me in, David."
"Shinji..." Snake smiled, roughing up Shinji's hair. Then, Rei spoke up.
"I must assist as well. The Commander's life is in peril and I must see to it that his return is seen to the end." Rei spoke. "Also, if we do have to confront Metal Gear again, I'll be prepared to deal with the threat like the first time."
"Hey, you guys aren't going to have all the fun without me, I got to have some of the action too you know." Asuka stepped forward. "And I'm not doing it because this is part of NERV procedure, or because that jerk of a Commander needs rescuing, but I have to keep an eye out on my dear Kaji, because he may need my help to protect him from you, Snake."
"Well, the kids have their favors as well, I can't argue." Misato said.
"We have to split into teams, Raiden and I will be the ones to get into Arsenal and deal with the terrorists, while you kids stay on the outer areas of where Arsenal is staying and cover us." Snake said.
"Yes, sir! It'll be a piece of cake!" Asuka smiled.
"Hey, what are we, chopped liver? What do we get to do?" Greg asked.
"You assist the Children to the best of your abilities. Tengus may be waiting there to invade a city, but we can't be sure. Just be there for back up."
"Yes, Big Boss." Greg saluted to Snake.
"If you are in need for ammunition and weapons, Major Katsuragi will show you all to the armory." Fuyutsuki spoke. "You are free to use the weapons there to your disposal."
"Thank you, Sub-Commander. We won't forget this." Snake said, and then turned to Misato. "I hope we aren't becoming a burden to you, Misato. We're just trying to protect your city form the bad guys."
"I don't mind, NERV really needs all the help they can get." Misato spoke. "Thanks anyway, David. I won't forget what you and your friends are doing for us."
"It won't end there, Misato." Snake said to her, pointing at the floor. Misato got the idea...he was talking about Adam and how he too wanted to help her find the truth about NERV. "You got my word."
Misato smiled slightly to his response and walked out to the door. Snake, Raiden and Otacon looked at each other in silence.
"So, Solidus is back...this is more serious than we thought." Otacon said, breaking the silence. "We have to be careful if this is a trap set up by them or the Patriots."
"Yeah, we know...but what still bothers us is the fact that the Patriots themselves are here in Japan." Raiden spoke. "And what would Dead Cell want with Commander Ikari?"
"Your guess is as good as ours, kid...but we have to play this right." Snake said. "Dead Cell is playing a different kind of game, and they have just begun to get the upper hand over us..."
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"Don't kill him yet...I want him alive." a voice spoke in the darkness. Then gradually, light appeared over head, in a form of a large light with overhead light bulbs. Slowly, Gendou had realized that he was still alive and is under captivity of his enemies.
"Leave it to me." a Russian accent returned the reply.
"I don't want our guests dead before the real party begins, remember that, Ocelot." the other voice said. "Besides...Commander Ikari is our most honored guest, threat him with the hospitality you're always known for."
"Yes, my pleasure, King." Ocelot replied.
"Can you hear me, Gendou Ikari?" Solidus asked. "Do you remember who I am? I always knew that one day I would meet you...ex-Patriot, no.7?"
Gendou looked up and saw Solidus in front of him. The Commander tried to move his arms, but Ocelot talked.
"Forget it; your body is strapped down tight."
He was right, as Gendou looked to his sides, he was in a room just fit for a prisoner, he can see a cell through the background window, in the room he was in, and he was on a menacing contraption that spreaded out his arms and legs. He had his black jacket taken off, leaving on his red shirt and black pants. His body showed no signs of abuse while he was out cold, but this didn't bother him. He was a man with little concern for anything, even the safety of himself or his staff, and even his own son. He had no prior experience similar to this, but he was prepared for anything Solidus may throw at him.
"Solidus...you're supposed to be dead. The Wiseman's Committee made sure of that after the Shadow Moses incident." Gendou spoke, his eyes meeting his captors. "How can you still be breathing?"
"I faked my death, dear Ikari...twice." Solidus spoke. "It was a quite an efficient way to fool the Patriots and the world so I can regroup my fellow Dead Cell members, with the exception of Fatman, and have my revenge."
"You'll never win, Solidus. Your lunatic group will never get your revenge." Gendou spoke, daring him. "I may have been one of the Patriots, but I know the kind of power they wield, and whet ever plan you have against them will just backfire as usual."
"Always the arrogant one, eh, Gendou? I'd figure you have the gall to deny what we really have in store for you." Solidus walked a short distance. "No matter...I'd didn't expect any less from the fearless Gendou Ikari. Who else can attain the pieces he needs to start the Third Impact...the extinction of humanity...from SEELE themselves?"
Gendou wanted to be in shock, but remained calm, or his term of showing no interest. "What do you intend to do about that, Solidus? If you are planning to start the Third Impact..."
Solidus started to laugh hard, that Gendou was taken back by this. "What's so damn funny?"
"No wonder you were probably kicked out of the Patriots...you want to control the death of humanity, even if the Patriots intention was only for control?" Solidus spoke. "I could care less if this was the Patriot's plan, but I have a mission to complete and that is liberation from the Patriots, then take back my place as the reigning Big Boss. You will tell us everything you know about the rest of the Patriots, or else we'll take your base. Understood?"
"Am I supposed to be intimidated by your threats, Sears?" Gendou spoke. "I won't comply so easily."
"Of course, I wasn't expecting you to. If everything else fails, then we'll just fire a nuke at both your precious NERV Headquarters and Toyko-3 itself and annihilate the Patriots safe house in one fell swoop." Solidus said. "Nothing you can do or say can stop us, Gendou."
"Have they given in to our demands yet?" Ocelot asked.
"Not yet."
"They won't give in...they will be sending Snake and FOXHOUND to do the work of rescuing Nerv's Commander."
"Good...just as we expected. They will come running into our trap. We'll be ready for them...and their Evangelions."
"You mean...?"
"Yes...the Test Type is ready. SEELE went through a lot of trouble to get it prepared, sorry for them that are ours now." Solidus spoke. "I'm going to get the launch preparations on the go, Ocelot, make this little torture show of yours as quickly as possible. And don't over do it, he'll be useful later in our new S3 plan."
"Torture? This is an interrogation." Ocelot said in defense.
"As you wish." Solidus smiled as he looked at Gendou. "See you later, Gendou Ikari."
Solidus walked out the room, leaving Gendou and Ocelot alone. The Russian smirked, turning to the machine behind him.
"So, Gendou, this is how it has come to, huh?" Ocelot asked. "I never figured a man like you would be one of the people I'm working for."
"How come you have re-allied yourself with Solidus? I thought you were supposed to kill him and everyone involved in the Big Shell incident." Gendou spoke.
"Yes, I was suppose to take back RAY and eliminate the refuse from the Patriots self orchestrated exercise, but even they were cautious. I was given a bogus location to begin with, but I was wise and stayed in hiding...Solidus just happened to be in the same predicament as I was." Ocelot spoke. "So...we have to re-form a new Dead Cell to even the odds against the Patriots."
"And how did you know that I was one of them?"
"Part of the new S3 gave us the information of where the Patriots were hiding, and details of one particular member...you, Gendou Ikari." Ocelot spoke. "It was obvious that your dealings during the construction days of NERV and the Evangelion project had at least, a push from the Wiseman's Committee."
"You're dare challenge the Patriots, Shalashaska?" Gendou spoke.
"Challenge? Comrade, the Patriots is the best thing that happened since the beginning of their control 200 years ago." Ocelot spoke. "But enough talk from you...you are going to give me all you know about the Patriots, Gendou, whether you want to or not."
"You'll never get what you are after, Ocelot." Gendou dared.
"You should watch your mouth, Ikari, if I were you." Ocelot said. "You may be known to be the most ruthless man in existence and of no emotion, but now is the time to test the waters."
Ocelot turned around and switched on the machine." Solidus knew that you underwent hypnotherapy to suppress your emotions. Let's test if that is true...I'm going to run a high electric voltage through your body. When you had enough, just give up and the pain will be over."
A cold sweat actually ran down Gendou's brow, he knew just what kind of a sadist Ocelot was. He dared not to speak, but braced himself for what was to come.
"Okay, here goes." Ocelot spoke, switching on the current. "Let's start small, shall we?"
Gendou felt an unnatural feeling that felt that could have killed him right there and then. It was getting stronger, as his body started to spasm from the growing high current, then in an unexpected moment; he felt an extreme pain course throughout his body. He was able to keep silent for a few seconds, but the pain was too much and his arm started to get numb, trying to stay alive.
"AHHHHHHHHH!" Gendou's scream's was then heard throughout the lower levels of Arsenal.
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Greg looked up in surprise, as if he heard something. He was in NERV air dock with the Harrier checking it for the job Linn did on repairing it.
"Did I just hear someone scream?" Greg said, to himself, with a magazine in his teeth. He was busily modifying his FA-MAS and other weapons for the attack on Arsenal the next day. He had already worked on Snake's and Raiden's weapons, but he had to make sure that his weapons were ready for an unlikely situation. But, even he won't be needing weapons much...
The recruit, who had managed to return his hair color to black again, simply shrugged his shoulders. "Hmmm...must be my imagination..."
"Do you mind explaining where you were for an entire day?" a female voice responded from behind. It was Linn, in her long white battle dress. Greg turned to face her.
"Oh, Linn...I thought you had forgotten about that..." Greg replied.
"Don't play smart with me, Greg! I was worried sick about where you could have been." Linn walked to her partner. "And it wasn't because Snake and Kaji were thrashing the Harrier...I was really concerned about you..."
"If you must know, I took the opportunity to visit Rio." Greg said. "I had to make sure that my power is going alright."
"And?"
"Aw, come on, Linn, buy a clue. Surely you have guessed that I'm doing okay." Greg smiled. "Just you wait till we get into a battle."
Linn simply shook her head and embraced her partner. "You don't get it, do you, Greg? After seven years of being together...and in FOXHOUND...you sound as if everything's going to be alright. But it's not!"
"Linn, take it easy...I know what I'm doing. I may be new to this thing, but I'm old enough to know the risks." Greg held up Linn's head to look at her. "
"How can you say that? You don't even know how much I worry about you when you fight!" Linn was almost in tears. "Greg...promise me...don't fight tomorrow."
"What? What are you saying, Linn?" Greg was in shock.
"I mean, you always risk yourself against the most dangerous of missions just to protect everyone. I'm not against that, but, you always hurt yourself with that damn power you have." Linn said.
"Linn..." Greg said. "It can't be helped...I have to do this...it's the only way I can protect everyone and you...whether you like it or not..."
"Greg...you're unbelievable..." Linn said, as she walked out of the area, leaving Greg by himself.
(Damn, Linn, you just don't understand...) Greg thought, then getting back to work. It was then he noticed Rei was there looking at him. "Hey, Ayanami...why are you here?"
"I was told by Snake that all personnel involved in tomorrow's attack on Arsenal are to turn in early tonight at the temporary quarters in NERV Headquarters." Rei spoke.
"Already? Fine then." Greg spoke, and then he stopped. "Hey, Rei...again, sorry about what I said earlier. I just felt like saying what my heart says."
"Your heart?" Rei was puzzled.
"Yeah, I'm sort of an empath; I think too much about other people's feelings and like to say what I feel about a person." Greg spoke, replacing his weapons into his weapons storage case. "That Commander of yours has a side that I never seen before, but usually it's to blame for my big mouth."
"I can see that." Rei spoke, making Greg drop his own Desert Eagle.
"You caught me. Damn." Greg smiled. "Well, I guess that makes you even. You know...it wouldn't hurt if you let yourself express your thoughts. That way, it makes it easier for you to be with someone you care about. But will Linn understand that? No..."
Rei thought about this. She felt as if she had a barrier around her heart for some time. She never knew what the cause was; she'd always opened up to Gendou, but not to others. Why was that? She never felt what her heart told her to feel.
"Come on, Snake is waiting for us to turn in." Greg spoke.
"Aren't you going to see Linn to make up for the past trouble?"
"Tomorrow." Greg spoke. "See you later, Ayanami."
Rei nodded in reply as Greg left. She then walked on, thinking that what Greg said was right.
(My barrier of my heart...) Rei thought. (Can Commander Ikari be responsible for it?)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Shinji was lying on his makeshift bed on the floor, with Snake resting behind him. Snake had preferred to be with Misato, but everyone was issued their separate sleeping quarters. Snake decided to stay with Shinji, he's been a wreck since his father's been captured by Dead Cell.
"Hey, David...are you awake?" Shinji asked.
"Not really." Snake replied. "I was almost close to dreamland with Misato in mind..."
Shinji chuckled slightly. "You really love Misato, don't you, David?"
Snake grinned to the sound of that. "I wouldn't call it that...I may have got lucky because of all the things that happened recently. She probably couldn't get enough of me and my heroics."
"Yeah, you're a hero alright. I guess that's obvious..." Shinji said. "David...do you think that the people who're holding my father...will kill him by the time we attack Arsenal?"
"Only time may tell. If Gendou has something Solidus wants, there's no doubt that they will force it out of him."
Shinji was silent for awhile. "I don't know how I should feel, David...my father tried to hurt Touji, and if you and Raiden and Otacon hadn't been here to help, Touji could have been..."
"I know what you're saying kid, but don't think ill-mindly about your father. Sure, he may try to neglect your feelings and everyone else's, but he's your father and that is a choice you can't deny." Snake said, pulling the sheets over him. "I just wish you could have someone a lot better to look up to..."
"Like you?" Shinji said.
"Yeah, if you like. I did say you one hell of a son if I was your father." Snake smiled.
"So...why don't you...adopt me?" Shinji felt really bashful when he said that.
Snake chuckled a bit, he liked when Shinji was being innocent just to get his attention.
"I'll keep that in mind, but I will have to watch your father if I were you."
"I don't care..." Shinji said. "You're the right guy for Misato and a great father figure for me and even Asuka."
Snake was silent, thinking about what Kaji said earlier. He wanted Shinji to know, but he wondered how Shinji will take it.
"Um...David?"
"What is it now, kid? We're supposed to be sleeping." Snake said.
"Just one more question, please?"
"Alright, Shinji."
"Before Misato...have you ever loved someone?" Shinji asked.
"Huh? Why did you ask that?"
"I just wanted to know if people like you can fall in love. I was only wondering if soldiers can do that."
Snake thought about this, since the only other person to ask him this was Otacon. "Yeah, I think so. I think that anyplace. Any time, two people can fall in love with each other. But...if you love someone, you have to be able to protect them."
"I think so too." Shinji said, thinking about Rei.
"You never told me what you're fighting for, Shinji. Mind giving me hints?" Snake smiled.
Shinji started to blush, not being able to tell him the answer. Instead, he ended up saying, "I...I'm not scared...OOOPS!"
He knew that was trouble, as Snake started to tickle him once more. Shinji couldn't keep his laughter inside.
"David! You...ha-ha-ha...got to stop...ha-ha-haha...tickling me!" Shinji laughed.
From next door, Asuka heard the two, and shouted, "Will the two of you keep it down over there? People are trying to sleep! Unless I'm getting tickled as well, don't let Shinji have all the fun!"
"Snake, why do you always like to tickle me and Asuka?" Shinji just had to ask. Snake simply placed his hand on Shinji's head and roughed his hair, which from the Third Child got a chuckle.
"Because I like seeing children smile. That's part of the reason I fight." Snake responded. "To push me and keep me going when things are tough. That's why I do what I have to do to keep you and Misato happy."
"No wonder you went through so much trouble just to protect all of us. You were trying to get Misato's attention, were you?" Shinji asked.
"No, I exactly didn't plan it to be like this, I just got lucky." Snake said with a smile. "We're both lucky, you and I, Shinji."
"Huh? I don't understand, David." Shinji was confused.
"She's your guardian who's been like a mother to you since I can tell from all the time you spent with her." Snake said. "Me...I'm just a wanted man who's just trying to save the world from Metal Gear again when normally people won't offer me a hand, and surprisingly, Misato's the first person who didn't care if I was dangerous or not. She's trying to see the best results come out for you and the other pilots, Shinji. And that sort of, well, changed me for the better good. I used to care only about the mission ahead, but whenever I look at you, Asuka, Rei and Misato and all the other people helping me and the rest of FOXHOUND in this, I thought heavily about what good I did since I came to Toyko-3. Because of her, I can rely on people like her to get me through this. And I know she had an impact on you too, Shinji. So that's why I have to do this for you guys."
"As a way of saying 'thank you' to Misato?" Shinji asked.
"Nah, save that for the date." Snake smiled.
Shinji chuckled slightly as Snake stopped and got back to his side. "Good night, Shinji. Get enough rest for tomorrow."
"And the same to you, David, and thanks." Shinji smiled, getting into the covers.
Snake wondered if he could, have taken care of Shinji if he wanted Gendou out of the picture.
(I just hope at least Solidus does the favor for me and relieve us of what Gendou is planning...) Snake thought as he drifted to sleep.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Raiden was already in his Skull Suit and Greg was with him, his own purple Skull Suit, with the large red cloak wrapped around his neck. They were having breakfast at Nerv's cafeteria, and were waiting for the time when they will head for old Tokyo to confront Arsenal.
Raiden was equipped with standard weapons, his M9 and his HF-Blade, as well as his body armor, three bandages, a Nikita missile launcher he found in the NERV armory, and some chaff grenades. Greg also packed light, carrying two Desert Eagles, one Ration, his favorite custom heavy machine gun, and an assault rifle.
"Where could she be?" Greg said to himself, thinking about Linn. He turned around to his side to see a youth clad in different Skull Suit approach them, holding a weapons case with him. Greg knew who this person was.
"Hey...James!" Greg waved at the teen. "Over here."
James walked over to Raiden and Greg and shook Greg's here. "Hey, guys, how are things?"
"What are you doing here?" Raiden asked. "Did Colonel Campbell send you too to help out?"
"In a matter of speaking, yes." James nodded. "This was part of his orders to back you up."
"Just when did you get here?"
"Half an hour ago, but this is quite a base. I almost lost my way here." James smiled, then turning to Greg. "Say...Greg, where's Snake?"
"Finalizing our attack plans with Major Katsuragi. He wanted to make sure to be prepared for anything Dead Cell may dish out." Greg said. "For now, we'll be taken to Tokyo and face off there while Raiden and Snake make their way inside Arsenal."
"So, we're just back up then?"
"Well, there might be Tengus; we have to fight our way to keep the enemy from approaching the mainland." Raiden said. He then looked at his watch. "It's almost time, let's get to the Central Dogma to meet the others."
James and Raiden left first, as Greg finished his coffee. He then saw Linn approaching him. "Linn...about last night..."
Linn, who was in a rather skimpy showy Sneaking Suit that really showed her cleavage, and was wearing her red gloves, touched Greg's face and kissed his lips. Greg stepped in surprise.
"I'm the one who is sorry, Greg...I didn't know what kind of person you are until Rei told me that you felt that way about people." Linn smiled, her bow gun strapped behind her.
"Rei talked to you about this?" Greg said in shock. "Linn...just what did Rei told you to change your mind about this?" Greg asked.
"Oh, she mentioned the conversation you had last night with her." Linn spoke, brushing aside her hair. "That talk about the barrier of the heart really surprised me, but I didn't expect less from such a charmer like you, Greg."
"And after she mentioned that to you, you felt like a fool, huh?" Greg said.
"I know, I know. But half of this is your responsibility, you normally don't flaunt your abilities, but you still put yourself in danger." Linn said.
"We're in FOXHOUND; it's supposed to be dangerous." Greg said. "Actually, any mission we go has its risks, that's why I have to do what I think is necessary to protect everyone...especially you, Linn."
"Greg..." Linn smiled. "I'll remember what you said to her, I just hop you get to use a line like that on me soon..."
"Cut it out!" Greg blushed.
"You know...there's something unnatural about that Rei Ayanami..." Linn spoke. "It's as if she's..."
"She's what? Why are you even wasting time thinking about this, Linn?" Greg said. "Look, we have other things to deal with right now; we can worry about exactly what goes down here in NERV later."
"Okay." Linn responded after some silence.
"Come on, let's go and meet the others."
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
The trio of FOXHOUND-ers have made their way to Central Dogma, and stepped in the middle of a conversation. Asuka, who was standing near Rose, saw Raiden stepped in with Greg, Linn and James.
Rose noticed the young man that stepped in and introduced him to the NERV crew. "Ah, James, you're finally here. I thought you wouldn't be coming to Japan until tomorrow."
"Well, I dealt with it sooner that I thought." James said. "So, this is the famous NERV Command Centre." Then he noticed Asuka. "Ah, the ever-so great Asuka Langley Sohryu, pilot of Evangelion Unit 02. We meet at last."
Asuka simply pouted and turned her head to Rose. "Who is this jerk?"
Rose simply shook her head. "Better be careful, Asuka. This is James Masterson, otherwise known to FOXHOUND as Silent Scorpion."
"Is that supposed to impress me or something?" Asuka replied.
"No, a warning. You're looking at one of the youngest and most dangerous recruits ever to join FOXHOUND." Greg spoke. "He's got sniping skills that makes Sniper Wolf's sharp shooting look like backyard paintball play."
Asuka simply chuckled. "Ho-ho, how is that supposed to intimidate me?"
"The original VR missions had a NG (No Good) Selection; one of the missions was the infamous Disappearing Targets, Level 7." Greg spoke. "He managed to beat the record time with an almost inhumane skill."
"The original time record was only around 15:52:01 seconds, but this kid beat it by only 7:32:14 seconds, without taking any extra ammo or Diazepam." Linn said. "And he did it twice to make sure."
The Command Centre was dead silent as they stared at Scorpion. "What? Just because I shot at targets in record time, doesn't mean I'm that deadly." Scorpion said. "...I think."
Asuka simply gulped as she observed the way James dressed. She noticed the scars on his right arm, and the many assortments of knives he was carrying. She reconsidered acting brash the next time when she was around someone as serious and deadly looking as this.
"Okay, I think I just step over to where Snake and Raiden are..." Asuka said, sidestepping.
"Huh? No, don't worry; I won't bite unless I'm provoked to." James smiled.
Maya turned to Greg and Linn. "So, you two have any FOXHOUND codenames?"
"Sure we do." Greg said, smiling. "I'm known as Psychic Panther, because I have a Panther rank most of the time, and I do have some abilities that I can't really spoil showing until this thing get started."
"And I'm known as Silver Eagle, that's one of the highest ranks you can get in FOXHOUND." Linn said. "Of course, Greg and I always work side by side to get the mission done well."
"You see, we're not only partners romantically, but in the battlefield as well." Greg nodded.
"Okay, here's the attack plan...Snake and Raiden will take point and infiltrate Arsenal, while the Evas draw the RAYs fire." Misato explained, while everyone else form both NERV and FOXHOUND characters listened in. "Our FOXHOUND recruits will handle the Tengu fleet, covering your backs as you invade Arsenal."
"Is that it?" Greg asked.
"No, the enemy may try to advance the attack, stay there as back up until the Commander and SEELE are rescued."
"I hope Solidus and friends haven't opened up a new trap for us." Linn said.
"That's why you'll have the Evangelions as back up. And your Codec crew will be Otacon and Rose for mission saves, Maya for technical operations for the Evangelions and RAY strategies, her frequency will be 152.21. And myself for the pilots in case an Angel attacks." Misato talked.
"Okay, we'll be transported to the sneak points. Let's move, people!" Snake said, leading both teams out the door. It was then Misato called out to him.
"Snake...be careful." Misato said to her hero. Snake smiled at her and waved at her.
"I will. You just handle everything here." Snake said. "We'll take care of everything else. Semper fi."
Snake was out of the door, leaving Misato to sigh heavily once more. Kaji, who just happened to be there, (and was still aching from the blows Snake gave him during their feud,) looked at Misato. "You really think this will work, Misato?"
"It has to, Kaji, or else this city may be obliterated by the Sons of Liberty before the next Angel does." Misato spoke. (Please...be safe, David...)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
The Evangelions were air transported to old Tokyo where Arsenal Gear has surfaced. Unit-01 was the first to be dropped off on the ground, as did Unit-00 and Unit 02. Snake then appeared on Unit-01's right hand, Raiden at his side, his own Socom drawn, while Greg and Linn landed on Arsenal from a NERV transport chopper via fast-rope descent, and Silent Scorpion followed with his sniper rifles in tow.
He and Raiden made their way to Arsenal's base where Greg, now FOXHOUND codename, Psychic Panther, and Linn, aka, Silver Eagle were waiting. Just then, a hatch opened, and a small fleet of Tengus appeared surrounding the team of mercenaries and recruits.
Snake, Raiden, Panther, Eagle and Scorpion were ready to take on the Tengus, when they heard a rumble from the sunken area of old Tokyo.
Just then, a number of RAY's appeared from the water's surface, but one of them was red instead of brown in color. This puzzled Snake and Raiden at first, but then they saw Unit-01 head towards advancing towards the red RAY.
Shinji took out his prog knife and made for the head section of RAY, but an unseen force deflected it away the attack.
"What the...!" Shinji said. It was then he heard Misato's voice over the Codec.
"An AT-Field detected from RAY!" Misato screamed. "Shinji, look out!"
Shinji looked on in shock as the RAY opened its mouth to fire a rail gun attack from its mouth, but Unit-01 was able to counter it with it own.
Raiden, who was in the middle of taking down Tengus as they come, thought of one thing as he saw Shinji fight own against the new RAY.
"Could this be the new Metal Gear I was told about?" Raiden thought.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
To Be Continued...
A Metal Gear that can produce AT-Fields? This is quite intriguing, could this be an Angel/Gear hybrid, or is something that isn't going to be revealed until the next Chapter? (Actually, that's the case...)
Sorry if this Chapter didn't have your dose of action that you all loved, this was more in-dept into the recruits I guess, but I promise that the action will continue from next Chapter, as I've been very busy lately, working and making cosplay for an anime con in August, down here in Trinidad. Not to mention, the new fic which should be up with the next Chapter, God willing, so keep your fingers crossed.
Anyway, reviews are appreciated always, they are what inspire me to continue this fic and write more. Ideas for the story are also appreciated, so let me hear what you have got. Oh, and I'm full of recruits right now, so anyone else with other characters who want to be in the fic, sorry, (expecting Tempest Dynasty).
Sorry, no omake this time. Maybe in the next Chapter, but it will have something with Gendou once more, heh-heh...
And because Hunter requested more Raiden, he'll get more Raiden. He's going to be in situations that will remind you all of both MGS and MGS2, the only difference that he has to deal with Eva characters this time...
Until the next one, folks...you must learn to focus your power! Laters.