Author's note: Despite the rumours, I'm still among the living, sorry for the long wait, people. Damn serious case of writer's block at this period of the year…it had to happen. Anyway, with that out of the way, I'm going to important announcements, so listen up now. Since this was supposed to come out on the anniversary date of the post, it was put off because of personal problems, writer's block included.
I've started this story on April 1st, 2003 and now as I look back, I've never thought I would get this far in the status of this story, much less writing fanfiction for the honour of pleasing fans like yourselves with stuff like this. I'm going to ante up with the fashion of my fiction from now on, and I'm sure you'll be pleased with what I got in store. I promise you will see improvements with some surprises thrown in as well.
Which brings me to another important point of the message, I've noticed that most of the focus has been on the good guys of Eva, the MGS series, and the OC complied FOXHOUND group. The same could be said about the long delayed pairings in action you want to see. So, it's time I start focusing on the other characters involved in this story, most in particularly, if they are supporting and surprise cameo characters that have appeared in Soldier X so far...anyway, enjoy this update for the time being.
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Chapter 25: Forces of Evil, Part 1
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The following day after the defeat of the 15th Angel…
The average in the NERV defence base in the GeoFront was anything but calm, as people were still on the jumpy side of what had happened during the previous Angel attack. Evangelion's Unit 02 pilot, Asuka was mentally attacked by the Angel, causing her to lose control of her ability to pilot, while James Masterson and Garland Durev braved the powerful radiated light that the Angel used to attack and encountered each other's inner demons. It was thanks to D's intervention during the hell Asuka, James and Garland included that helped them hold their own against the Angel.
After things managed to settle down, Garland had to have the wounds he received on his hands and arms areas, due to the ripping of the entry plug open when he was 'D' with his bare hands. They were bloodied all over, with most of the skin torn about at certain places. It was an almost grisly sight, but Garland didn't seem to mind. He had a high tolerance for pain, as every other FOXHOUNDer should have.
Dr. Ritsuko Akagi would have taken the chance to check up on Garland's progress, but she had more important things in mind…one of them is confirming if Asuka, James and Garland were still mentally stable, especially after the Angel penetrated all three of their minds simultaneously. After getting the message that Garland was treated for the wounds received, she and Maya Ibuki had him, Asuka and James visit her in a special medical area of the NERV headquarters that deal with mental trauma of any kind.
Most of the other people from FOXHOUND wanted to know if those three were okay as well. With them were their comrades, Michael Hansen, Linn Aramaki and Kari Mondeau who wanted to find out for themselves if their friends will be alright.
"Good day, doctor. I came as you requested. " Garland spoke to her rather sheepishly, impressing Ritsuko and Maya slightly. This was a rather shocking discovery of seeing Garland acting normal like this, only after remembering some thirteen hours prior, he was a violent, berserker alter ego named 'D' ripping open the armour for Unit 02's entry plug.
"Um…yes. This is about you, Asuka and James participation during yesterday's attack." Ritsuko spoke calmly, now taking her time as she doesn't want to say anything upsetting to cause another awakening from 'D'. "I just need to make sure that you three haven't suffered any serious mental damage when from the battle, so we're going to run some tests on your mental waves using NERV's advanced science of cat scans."
"This was from the call from the new Commander and Naomi, so it couldn't be just ignored." Maya spoke afterwards. "Colonel Campbell from FOXHOUND was pretty concerned about your welfares as well; you know that, Garland and James?"
"Sorry, Lieutenant…we didn't mean to make everyone worry like that." James put up his arms and said in an apologetic tone. Asuka looked at his direction with a light grin.
"I'm sure he was just doing his job as part of his group, so don't be too rough on him." Asuka said, folding her arms proudly as she just somehow complimented James.
"Thanks a lot for that, Asuka." James replied, staring back at her with a smile on his face. This was a rare thing for James to be actually doing, much less with a girl…smiling and conversing as socially as he can with anyone close to him. He and Asuka both had truly changed since they helped each other during the 15th Angel's attack.
"Ahem...are you two ready to go through this as well?" Michael coughed, interrupting the two as they stared at each other long enough that time was flying by quickly and Asuka was already due to take part in a synch test.
"Yeah, yeah…there's no need to rush me." Asuka replied, stepping up to Ritsuko, as she was taken into the scan room. Mana and Linn stood together side by side, conversing of what was taking place.
"You really think they will be okay?" Linn asked quietly to Mana, trying not to interrupt Ritsuko's procedure. "I mean…a mental attack from an Angel to go as far into your bad memories, that's not something even Garland can shrug off that easily, much less for the children affected…"
"They are going to be fine, Linn. If the people of NERV discover something wrong among any of them, it's bound to be rectified thanks to theirs and Philanthropy's combined technology and minds." Mana spoke.
"Yeah, you're right…I didn't mean to be pessimistic at a time like this…" Linn replied solemnly.
"I'm sure you got good reason to…you haven't heard from Greg and Riku up to now, huh?" Michael asked her, which Linn replied by shaking her head.
"Yeah, you can say it's really kind of getting me edgy." Linn said.
"I'm sure they will be okay, Nagi and Tot are with them as well." Michael assured her. "Personally, I do hope they all haven't gotten into some serious trouble, so I'm expecting Greg to come up with a logical excuse for not calling back when we needed to know if he's in trouble or not when he eventually gets back here."
"I hope so too…" Linn replied before thinking to herself. (Though it seems like forever…)
Meanwhile as this was going on, Solid Snake had just left the VR training hall, dressed in his new nanosuit. It had been a hectic week for the sneaking expert, having to help Misato cope with what has happened with Asuka, James and Garland during the attack and what had taken place during the attack, namely her argument with Michael on how she handled the situation.
(Now that I think about it, Michael's got a point on how Misato runs things around here…she got to take caution for the next time something like yesterday happens again.) Snake thought to himself, as a cigarette in his mouth slowly burned away while he pondered away on what has happened to this point.
First, it was revealed that Gendou Ikari used to be a former member of the Wiseman's Committee and was creating a Metal Gear/Evangelion hybrid in secret from the SEELE organization. The details of the rumoured Ultimatum Gear and its exact specs are still unknown to anyone up to this point. Gendou, having earned the wrath of both the Patriots and the leader of the Sons of Liberty themselves, Solidus Snake, was killed for acting on his own as a punishment for his deeds.
Then, afterwards, was Dead Cell's resurrection and take over of the SEELE. From what both Snake and Raiden gathered, Dead Cell was recollected in secret by Solidus following the Big Shell incident and was later recruited by SEELE in an attempt to capture NERV's most vital pieces…the Children. Their attempts failed thanks to Snake's intervention.
(What could Solidus and Ocelot be plotting for SEELE?) Snake thought to himself as he entered Misato's office. The lavender haired woman was behind her desk in a slumped fashion, as she had to deal with the damage reports, not to mention the insurance costs from the previous Angel attack.
"Hey, David…how was the training?" Misato asked, now noticing him in the room. The past few days surely took a toll on her, as she had been on a diet of Calorie Mates since the aftermath of the attack, trying to keep her stamina up to deal with the workload she had to deal with everyday.
"I'd rather be out in the field right now, trying to get to the bottom of what's going on with SEELE…" Snake replied, sitting on the table and now taking one of her hands into his. "You, on the other hand, really should get some rest."
"I know…but I feel I almost let down Asuka and your friends during that attack. I was responsible for nearly bringing them to death if 'D'…I mean, Garland, didn't go out and help those two children and while Michael offered his piece of mind on the matter." Misato replied.
"Goes to say that you're going to have to work on your skills in terms of strategy before taking on a next Angel…" Snake replied with a light grin, but Misato just glared at him.
"This is not funny, David…" she told him.
"Sorry, I was only trying to cheer you up." Snake put up his arms as he replied, but Misato simply smiled lightly back at him and got a good hold of one of his arms, inviting Snake to pull her to him over her desk. Misato only replied with a light chuckle.
"Well, it seems to be working." She said, resting her head against Snake's chest. She still had an etched look of worry on her face, as something was really disturbing her.
"Hey, is something the matter?" Snake asked.
"I was just thinking what lies ahead for all of us, despite with how things get even crazier by the day with the Angels and the terrorists." She said. "Now we're facing a stronger breed of Angels, while the human enemies we have taken control of SEELE and are waiting for an opportunity to strike once they see it. We're practically in the state for even more nasty surprises we are not prepared for."
"We going have to tighten up security for this base if you claim there's going to be an invasion soon. But at current, even FOXHOUND isn't enough to help us in this fight against the Patriots and Dead Cell." Snake replied.
"It's the most we can do with our limited resources…" Misato said sullenly.
"Don't you worry about it…NERV is no longer under SEELE's watch any more, and thanks to the financial boosts we've had up to lately thanks to Philanthropy's sponsors and the Hokage ninja clan, you guys can afford the security, right?" Snake asked.
"Yeah, but I'm guessing it won't be enough…" Misato sighed. "What I would give right now to know what Solidus is doing and planning right now? What are he and his group planning for us? I'd also like to know if they are any other enemies NERV may be a target of…."
"Good chances are we'll be overwhelmed if we are not careful." Snake said.
"You got that right…we'd better discuss this with Commander Fuyutski as soon as possible." Misato insisted to Snake. "Let's just hope he has an idea for what we can do about this situation…"
Snake agreed to go along follow Misato to the Commander's office. But he too couldn't help but not get the thought of what the Sons of Liberty are plotting, the status of SEELE and other possible enemies the defence organization may have.
(Ocelot…what's your deal in this game of yours? Why are you playing around with us and what are you really waiting for?) Snake thought to himself as he and Misato went ahead to Commander Fuyutski's office.
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As this was going on, inside SEELE headquarters was tightened with Tengu infantry all over its compound. The armoury and main conference halls were locked down and have become property of Dead Cell now. Even the cages which housed some white, towering, mimic copies of the Evangelion were seen, as programmers and technicians were seen working on the finishing stages for them.
The Tengus of the area were under command by Fortune who was keeping watch of the progress of the construction of the Evangelions. If anyone were to step out of bounds, they will be executed on the spot. She contemplated on why Solidus had ordered the increase of the work rate of the Mass Production Evangelions, she would think striking NERV while they were recovering from the last Angel attack be better.
"This grows tiresome…why Solidus is playing this waiting game with our enemies?" Fortune asked herself loudly, holding unto her rail gun. She has her own personal agenda against the Patriots and even Ocelot himself since the Big Shell incident. Having been shot by him, after being told that her power was just a construction by the Patriots proved to be so, it was all part of the S3 plan. She disliked working with him even now, but as long Vamp is keeping a watchful eye on Ocelot's actions, there should be no problems.
"I know why you're worried, Queen…but do not let King's ideas get the best of you." A deep Romanian accent spoke from behind her, as Vamp stepped from the darkness behind her and watched the giant Mass Production Eva's in construction.
"Vamp…you've come to sightsee as well?" Fortune asked.
"I was getting weary of dealing with our…new recent guests." Vamp answered, cold breath leaving his mouth as he spoke. "I thought you could use the company."
"You are the only person I can trust now…we're only surrounded by jackals and sickos nowadays." Fortune said.
"Now, now…just because we have to work with that traitor again who started this in the first place, you don't need to lose your cool." Vamp answered.
"Solidus is starting to become questionable in his actions up to late…" Fortune said. "So far, he's just randomly going about attacking people that's not exactly connected to the Wiseman's Committee."
"Yes. He's wasting precious time we should be using to go after them…" Vamp said. "Is this so called Ultimatum Gear that important to him that he requires some sort of lift before initiating his final plans?"
"To him, yes…but we don't really see any profit in that now, do we?" Fortune said.
"I'm certain he won't be pleased of our…disagreements with our plans sitting well with his. He's starting to get in our way of our plans to settle the score against the Patriots." Vamp said.
"Yes…my father will be avenged…all that the Patriots have made unjust will be set by our hands if that case ever has to be…" Fortune said.
"It would be best to lay low for the time being until the real fun starts…"
"Yes, that will be the most suitable timing. He will never know what will hit him…" Fortune said, as she and Vamp started to walk around the halls of SEELE together.
Passing in their direction were two other males, one was a tall German with red-hair, dressed in a business suit, while his companion was a pale Irish man with scars all about his body, and his left eye was covered in an eye patch like Solidus. He had a throwing sword in his hand and was licking its sharp point.
"Another slow day, eh Vamp?" the German asked with a smirk, almost causing Vamp to growl at him. "Well, don't worry about it…I'm sure there are some unfortunate old geezers here that will certainly entertain you until Solidus calls the shot…"
"Be careful what you say, telepath…we may be allies for the time being, but I'm sure we'll dispose of you once Solidus says you're not deemed for his plans." Fortune warned the German. As both she and Vamp left, the German started to shake his head with a light grin.
"Tsk, tsk, tsk…they are such fools…the human mind is so much like honey candy." He spoke.
"But if you take too much, you are bound to get stung." Another male voice spoke, meeting the two. He was American with a grey business suit with short black hair and was wearing glasses. "Schuldich…Farfarello…I do pray tell that you two are not causing some kind of trouble with the people we are supposed to be working with."
"Crawford…this is boring." Schuldich said, holding his head with one hand and sighing. "How much longer are you going to play masquerade with Solidus?"
"Not until he reveals his final ace in the hole of his plans, which I reckon is soon enough." Brad Crawford spoke. "He is certainly toying with us to an extent that even I can find intolerable."
"Even the famous precognitive can't tell what he's planning?" Schuldich said, smirking. "Ever since we've gotten beaten by that loudmouth Kinezono, I'm ashamed to say this is the lowest we in Schwartz have ever gotten into…"
"I don't need to be reminded by you about how far I can see into the future in mere moments and its limits can go…" Crawford glared at him. "It won't be fair if I did such a thing now, would I? It's not within my usual procedure to use my own psychic powers to overpower my employer into following my command."
"Then…you want me to take a shot at it then?" Schuldich asked. "Taking over and mentally keeping that girl we captured from Noir is starting to become such a boring routine everyday, I need someone new to torment for the fun of it."
"You are so messed up…" Farfarello said, cutting his arm as he spoke.
"Look who's talking…you is the one who doesn't feel a thing when you get hurt." Schuldich barked back at him at a low tone. "Psychically, that is."
"That's enough, both of you." Crawford said, turning around. "Schuldich…I'm certain one of the men of SEELE is willing to give us information for the sake of not being mentally tortured. If he knows something of what Solidus is planning, or what relations this organization will have with the Wiseman's Committee, don't waste anytime getting the details through."
"And you?" Farfarello asked.
"I'll continue parading along with Solidus and his plans until the right time comes." Crawford said. "I'm beginning to become suspicious of the other characters we have to deal with, though…"
"Ocelot…that damn ninja…" Schuldich spoke.
"And Shade…I still can't believe we have to work with that damned sicko of a ninja…" Farfarello said. "I think he's in it for something that intended for him alone."
"He is his own boss, huh?" Schuldich asked.
"That or someone is commanding him to watch us for the time being." Crawford said. "The sight of that man and what he is capable of is beyond what any of the other Dead Cell members are used to…we should be watchful that he doesn't pull anything to hinder our plans."
"Does one of them include revenge against Kinezono for embarrassing us?" Schuldich asked.
"Yes…and certainly a little reunion with our former associate, the do-gooder Nagi for choosing FOXHOUND and that annoying girl and their friends, that arrogant ninja included, than staying with us is also in order." Crawford said. "We, of Schwartz, will get what we desire, and no one can get in our way."
The three remaining men of Schwartz separated their ways, having their plans for revenge set in mind. But first, getting to deal with Solidus and Ocelot was their priority over everything else, not to mention the rest of Dead Cell. Along in that category, they must be on the watch of the mysterious ninja calling itself Mr. M, and Shade as well.
Schuldich and Farfarello will enjoy the moment when they will finally exact revenge on Greg Kinezono, and his apprentice and friend, Nagi Naoe, who was formally of Schwartz. Riku Hanabishi, Yuina Hatori, Nanami Hibino/Tot also fall in the category. All they had to do is wait on the call by Crawford to make his plan against Solidus and Dead Cell goes into initiation.
However, unknown to them, Shade was within the shadows, listening to their words. Shade happened to be a high level ninja that has lived for over five centuries, making him nearly 500 years old. The origin of his immortality was never unknown or confirmed. He has been part of in many wars, taking part in mass killings as a solider, and a rouge mercenary. He was probably known to be the most sadistic being alive, having a pleasure of torturing and killing his enemies. He also hold secret, and incredible evil powers, one of them is a descended origin from the Orochi bloodline. He used this power against Greg and his group of companions, nearly killing all of them some time ago, but they got off easily.
He wanted redemption for what happened, but he has yet to unlock his true and full powers. For the time being, he is under orders by a certain General Carter Drake of FOXHOUND, a man who is under the employ by the Patriots. By him working for Solidus's services, he can report what the third son of the Les Enfant Terrible project is plotting. For now, his orders as well are to stay low until he is given the call to betray Solidus.
"Just you wait…all of you…it will hit you so fast, you won't know what hit you." Shade smiled a sadistic grin, as he will simply make ready to put Drake's plans and his own into effect as he would definitely betray Solidus when he has the chance and when that moment happens, he would choose it well. But for now, it could wait; right now he's in dire need to tend to some 'extracurricular activities.'
"Soon, Michael…we'll have our dear little meeting and have to catch on old days." Shade said to himself, as he simply vanished as if he was never there.
From a monitor in SEELE's main office, Solidus was watching and observing all that's happening all around the facility. Everyone he had formed together to this point was starting to plot against him. A huge grin approached his face.
"This is a rather exhilarating experience, is it not, Ocelot?" Solidus said. "This is what becomes when people like them become tired of waiting for the good part of the scenario to start."
"Are you certain this is what you want, Solidus?" Revolver Ocelot asked. Right behind him, Keele Lorenz and the other men of SEELE sat as Tengus surrounded their conference table.
"Let them go ahead and plot against me…it makes this little charade more enjoyable." Solidus said. "Eventually, that will lead to their downfall…all of them."
"You shouldn't be overconfident…we still have some snags that has caused the setback in finding Ultimatum Gear."
"Yes…I got final confirmation that the next Metal Gear type has been destroyed back in America, along the stopping of the launch missiles that carried the experimental test virus, no thanks to the one of the S3's children and his group." Solidus said. "But it won't slow me down…now that this base is ours; most of the Self Strategic Defence Force has agreed to work with us in sake of keeping SEELE working in secret. We have now twice the infantry that should be enough to handle that weak based NERV, now that their Commander has a new one."
"Yes…not to mention that the Mass Production type Evangelions will be more than a nice touch…" Ocelot said. He became silent for a moment, until Solidus spoke.
"Does that sniper from FOXHOUND bother you that much?" he asked.
"What do you mean?" Ocelot asked.
"He was affected by the last Angel's light, and survived its effects." Solidus said. "Are you concerned about what will happen when you face him again after all this time? After what happened in Cuba in his last mission?"
"It is what I had hoped for…James has now exceeded my original hopes." Ocelot said, brushing his chin. "It will be but a final test for him when we meet again…he's hoping to settle the score with me once and for all."
"Ocelot…the only reason I agreed to become your ally once more, is that we seek what the Patriots are hiding and seek MY revenge. To me, you're just an aid in helping me discovering their plans, since you've been keeping constant tabs on them up till late." Solidus said making Ocelot glare at him, even though he knew it was true. "I'm sure that's part of your…secret plan, is it not?"
"What would you do about it if I were?" Ocelot asked, his answer having Solidus point one of his swords in front of his face.
"It will be more than just Liquid's hand that you'll be losing this time if you're keeping vital secrets about the Patriots being involved with Gendou Ikari and SEELE's affairs. You're the one who told me this information and I got to use it to my advantage, but a time will surely come when I no longer need you." Solidus warned him. "Remember that if you dare pull a trick against me this time, you're dead. You will not be warned a second time."
Ocelot simply put up his arms in surrender and gestured at Solidus, as he backed off.
"Whatever you say, boss. The feeling is mutual." Ocelot said, as he left the room coolly before something flared up. As he did, Mr. M stepped in to report to Solidus.
"Sir, it appears things are getting more out of control than predicted." Mr. M spoke. "We should find Ultimatum Gear as soon as we can get the chance to dispose of those opposing you."
"Yes…but these Angels still pose a problem, and all hope for the Patriots secret project against them has lost my interest…for the time being." Solidus said.
"What about the Angel that is being kept here in secret in this base?" Mr. M asked.
"Has he awoken yet?"
"Not yet, sir." The cyber ninja replied. "As per your requests, he is under a deep state of suspended stasis, but the extract of his DNA is already complete."
"I do hope it's not too much that it has ruined SEELE's original plan with him…"
"No, sir. He remains unhampered as ordered."
"Excellent…we can use it to continue advancing our search for Ultimatum Gear." Solidus said, smiling. "Once he awakens, prepare him for the mission SEELE wants him to carry out, understood? And start positions Tengu units all over the city; we're going to take NERV piece by piece at a time."
"Are you certain that he has potential of locating the Patriots?"
"Once Ocelot has done the work himself, yes." Solidus said. "Soon, Snake…I'll get to own the most powerful weapon that mankind has forged, and not even your friends with their Evangelions can stop me."
Mr. M stood in silence, listening to Solidus speak and after some seconds, stepped back into the darkness as if it was never there. Meanwhile outside, Ocelot was in the middle of a phone call with the Patriots themselves.
"Yes, they have begun their final phase of plans. Should I standby a while longer?" Ocelot asked.
"….."
"But the ones that Solidus has grouped together are planning to turn on him as well."
"….."
"Ha, ha, ha…well, of course. It wouldn't take a genius to figure out that their time is running out…all of their plans will be for nothing."
"…."
"Yes, the 6th child is still alive, no problems have occurred. It is being kept under stasis as the 'other half' wanted it to be. After the last Angel, NERV will fall under your control as you've wanted…"
"…."
"I wouldn't worry about the excess baggage if I were you…I deal with 'him' once we meet."
"…"
"Yes, I do hope to hear from you soon before it arrives. Until the next time, gentlemen."
After Ocelot had closed off the cell phone, he started to walk off in his direction, as he heard a voice.
"Well, now." Crawford spoke as he stepped out from where he was concealed, causing Ocelot to turn in his direction. "I take it that conversation you were having was with your real employer."
"And what would it be to you, Crawford?" Ocelot asked, his hand already on the
handle of his revolver. "You and your group are about as loyal to Solidus as I am, so if you're thinking about trying to discredit me..."
"Now, now, I merely came to have a little chat with you." Crawford replied calmly. "Our objectives are most likely the same, after all."
"Whether that is true or not stay out of my way." Ocelot warned. "Otherwise, this will be your last mission for..."
"I don't foresee that happening any time soon." Crawford interrupted him. "In any case there's more for us to talk about, Shalashaska, or should I call you Adamska, son of The Boss?"
Ocelot's eyes lowered their glare at Crawford, as the safety of his revolver was now clicked back into the gun, as Ocelot was prepared to fire at Crawford.
"Don't you dare call me by THAT name! You are not even worthy of doing so!" Ocelot said. "I may not know for the time being, how you know it, and why are you pushing the wrong buttons, but I advise you to drop the brave acts before you get killed by my gun. You'd better behave and listen to what Solidus has to say the next time he wants you to be his carrier boy, or else, you will suffer for your consequences. Remember that, psychic."
Ocelot clicked back his revolver, and started to spin it around his index finger, twirling it all around his chest area, before he shoved it neat and snug in place back into its side holsters. As he left, he only pointed to Crawford to watch himself from now on.
"My, my…it seems I've touched a nerve. How unsettling." Crawford said to himself with a smirk. (Still…that information is useful against him at a time like this…he'll be begging for mercy and a need to learn about his dear mother, the great and legendary mother of the original FOX covert ops unit, The Boss, otherwise known as the Joy. Just you wait, Ocelot…I'll show you soon how much of the group that raised you since you were taken away from the Boss that YOU don't know about, that it's bound to give you an extra dose headaches once you learned the truth.)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Back at NERV headquarters, inside the Commander's office, Misato and Snake had already talked to Fuyutski about the growing possible number of enemies NERV may have later on. This has got the new and much respectable commander thinking some.
"I see…it does seem we're just lying in wait for more enemies to just show up and attack us, other than the Angels." Fuyutski spoke.
"Any recommendations or ideas on how we can minimise a possible overtake of the base if an invasion does happen?" Misato asked.
"We need to secure the city and the citizens first…I'm going to have the mayor order a possible curfew for the city, it should help us a bit, but we won't go as far as holding the people that live here as prisoners." Fuyutski said.
"I'm already feeling this place is under siege…" Misato said, rubbing her head.
"The pilots may have protection, but not the city and the base itself, Sub-Commander." Fuyutski said. "We have to work on gaining allies in this fight and having them assist us defends and protects the city from the enemy terrorists."
"Anyone in particular, sir?" Snake asked.
"I'm working on some possible participants, but they all have some disagreement towards Gendou Ikari's handling of NERV while he was still alive. It will be hard for us to gain allies to help us…" Fuyutski said.
"Just great…because of him, we're not on the favourites of the other defence agencies and organizations other than FOXHOUND and Philanthropy, huh?" Misato asked.
"I'm afraid so."
"Don't worry, Misato…I'm sure there's a way we can do something to make them change their minds about us." Snake put a hand on her shoulder.
"I do hope so…this fight's starting to become too big for us to handle anymore." Misato said.
"Oh, I almost forgot…" Fuyutski said, showing Misato and Snake his laptop. "I got this video message from someone from FOXHOUND. A fellow named Carter Drake personally requests that he sees you, Misato."
"Just why is that, sir?"
"He wants for himself to find out why you acted out of bounds during the last Angel attack. He claims he's even bringing audio evidence of what happened." Fuyutski said, causing both her and Snake to look in shock at this. "I think this man is determined to show just how lacking in strategy comes, Misato, so you'd better have some kind of saving grace that can help you through this."
"This guy sounds serious, Misato. What will you do?" Snake asked her.
"We might as well face this guy and let him know that I'm not going down so easily, if that's his game." Misato said in a near angered tone. "But first…we have to find Michael and Garland; they should be able to help me deal with this arrogant Drake character."
"Good to hear…because he's waiting in the conference room for you." Fuyutski said suddenly.
"NANI!" Misato exclaimed, already bolting out the room. "Where the hell are Michael and Garland? I need them to come with me now!"
"I guess I should go with her too, huh?" Snake asked the Commander, which nodded at him in reply.
"You'd better…she will need you and her friends at a time like this."
"Then I better get to it. See you in a while, Commander." Snake said, leaving the room. Meanwhile in NERV's conference room, Carter Drake was on his cell phone, talking to one of his subordinates, a skilled and brilliant, but demented geneticist named Robert Thorn. In front of Drake was discriminating evidence against Misato, from a recording of what happened during the 15th Angel attack, intelligence reports and psyches profiles on Sub-Commander Misato Katsuragi. These entirely he got thanks to anonymous sources. He was willing to have NERV's autonomy removed and rebuke the woman for her duties, making the base much easier to target, since he himself was preparing a strike against NERV. He had that much power in his hands.
He also had command over the status of American military bases in Japan, and would get ready to call reinforcements from the JSSDF themselves. He also has access on the famous 7th Fleet. His position over Campbell made him a force to be reckoned with in terms of strategy and scheming to get gains for his own needs. His subordinates go as far as the U.S Military Elite quality.
"So, are your new test subjects ready, Thorn?" Drake asked.
"Yes…my new sets of bio-genetically enhanced soldiers are prepped and ready to go from my command." Thorn replied from the other end. "I have enough to go for enough of the remainder of the FOXHOUND group where you are, and enough for that Kinezono and his group as well."
"Kinezono…" Drake answered bitterly. "He has totally ignored me because of his Virtuous Mission and the circumstances surrounding it…he will get what's coming to him if he's not careful."
"He also appears to be gaining allies willing to help him and probably the rest of FOXHOUND later on once he returns to Japan wherever he goes in the world." Thorn replied.
"Find out about them. If they start to cause trouble, I will personally stop them if I have to. But not just yet." Drake said.
"They seem to be a set of formidable enemies…most of them have unique qualities that could pose a serious threat."
"We'll wait and see then on what will happen then. But one thing is for sure, that I will be ready for them." Drake said, switching off the phone. Just then, as he did, the door opened, as Commander Fuyutski, Sub-Commander Misato Katsuragi, Solid Snake, Michael Hansen, Garland Durev, Ritsuko Akagi, Maya Ibuki and Mana Kirishima stepped in.
"Good day, Sub-Commander Katsuragi." Drake stood up to greet himself. "The same goes to you, fellow FOXHOUNDer's, Hansen and Durev."
"General…why are you here?" Michael asked him in a serious tone.
"You'll see soon enough." Drake replied simply, getting ready for business.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
"Lord Nobunaga…" an agent dressed in black spoke over to a towering dark figure. "It has been confirmed…Shade is working under Drake's command, while Drake himself is at NERV to see the Sub-Commander."
"Good." The figure spoke, his voice tone and his identity unknown. "For now, we will just wait and see what happens. When the opportunity is right, I will attack those fools. One way or another…"
The fight against the Patriots has now taken a drastic turn, as evil has grown largely, uneven the odds placed against the joint NERV/FOXHOUND/Philanthropy factions. To go along with this nefarious increase of evil, a man named Matthew Reese is among this group of villains all wishing to take control of NERV. As of late, no one knows of his location…
…until now.
"So, I may ask…why is SEELE's lap dog agent trying to save what he could of the people he's supposed to betray?" Reese asked at a location about the abandoned areas of old Tokyo.
"I'm just doing what Solid Snake can't do at a time like this…gather intel." The man's voice answered back. "Besides…I'm in no longer of fear of knowing that my current employers are going to kill me once I complete my task, so I'm pretty much free to do what I want with my time."
"You were always a fool to circumstance…Ryoji Kaji." Reese growled at the smiling Japanese man with a ponytail. Kaji had his gun pointed at Reese.
"You will tell me everything you know about the Patriots, or else I'll consider doing that FOXHOUND group a favour and kill you right now." Kaji warned him. "Now."
Reese only grinned at the man. How little did he know how far the Patriots have influenced….
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
ShardclawK: You guys thought I forgotten all about the bad guys, huh? Well, I just had to do a chapter like this sooner or later, as this was a reference chapter for the bad guys that will be a major part of this fic soon. In case you didn't know, or haven't been reading Soldier X, I'm crossing over Weiss Kreuz as one of the anime in the story. That's just one anime, so more suprises will come later. But I'd better start focusing on more of the other pairings before things start to happen.
Again, sorry for the long wait for the update and a shorter than usual chapter, life can be a real pain when you're a victim of the famous writer's block for your stories, huh? (At least I got to enjoy Tekken 5 and Devil May Cry 3 during my hiatus, two of the best kickass PS2 games I've played so far, or better yet, EVER.) I can assure you that you'll be seeing faster updates for this fic coming up soon, not to mention an update for the long delayed End of Evangelion May Cry that's sure to rock.
Anyway, with this chapter completed and all important messages aside, time to present the names of some more amv's that uses MGS as its theme that you curious ones can find on the famous AMV. Org while I prepare for the next update by the meantime. I've pasted it unto my profile, so you can find it easy, no problem.
This one's a Full Metal Panic trailer using the MGS 2 opening theme that is fairly good, named 'Full Metal Gear Solid Panic' created by arronlye. It's worth checking out.
For the Love Hina fans, 'Metal Gear Hinata' by jarnik would leave you rolling with laughter. I won't ruin the details, just check it out.
And here's a suggestion for a COE/SX trailer battle: Check out Quiet Cannon's 'Neon Genesis Evangelion: Substance' for some funny and entertaining surprises, and istiv's 'Shounen Bushidou' for a unique anime multicrossover experience you'll never forget.
Thanks to DarkFusion for telling me about the Shounen Bushidou, it really is a cool amv that pretty much reminds me of this fic and SX, as well as our other favourite multicrossover story named 'Capcom vs SNK: Infiltration' by Lryix of Axn Ethix. Those of you should check that out if you're curious for a story as huge as this in terms of characters and action.
Just then, Ran and the rest of the Weiss boys step onstage alongside with me.
Ran: Hey, Shardclaw, are you forgetting that we're supposed to show up in this story soon as well? Could you make the announcement now?
ShardclawK: Yes, yes…I haven't forgotten that, but don't come on out until it's time for you to or else you'll ruin the surprise I have in store for the fans reading this story!
Youji: Not unless they were reading Soldier X, it's too late for that by now.
ShardclawK: Ah, you have a point there…the cat's out of the bag now…
Ken: Hey, Shardclaw…something seems so wrong with this picture.
ShardclawK: What do you mean, Ken? Not too happy that Gendou's not around for you guys get your turn to bash him as well?
Omi: It's not that, though we still wished we had our shot…
Ran: It's just none of the girls from the harem you own didn't come to interrupt us this time.
ShardclawK: Good thing you asked, boys. You see, I'm nearing the time of my birthday and I've decided to let all the girls I got so far visit their families and friends until my birthday. So, mark this date in history, folks, as I have gone cold turkey from girls for the time being!
Ran: Uh, right…good for you, Shardclaw.
Before anything else could happen, Dizzy, bunny girl Miyabi, Ropponmatsu 2 in cat girl mode and Morrigan steps in, wearing cute, tight tank tops and cute miniskirts.
Morrigan: Hi, honey…we're home.
ShardclawK: Now, now…wait a minute. Just why are you girls here when it's not time to show up yet?
Ropponmatsu 2: You are posting this on the eve of your birthday, right, Shardclaw-sama? Well, we decided to make sure to show up and get you 'ready' for any presents or surprises you will get from DarkFusion this time, aside from the anime and manga collections of over ten different titles that he himself has sent you.
Miyabi: Oh, yes. Do you remember what happened when he sent me, along with Tina and Taeko as presents a year back and what we did to you to get your cured from that writer's block? Well, it's going to happen again this year, only with more goodies, I'm sure of it.
ShardclawK: (Looks at calendar and see the date was the 23rd, which my birthday is on the 24th.) Oh, snap! Why just had you go and say that now, especially in front of the fanboys? Now that you've said that I'll be getting my own collections of Noir, Mahoromatic, Ai Yori Aoshi and Enishi and Burn Up eXcess, as well as a bunch of manga that I have to find time to read thanks to DarkFusion, I'm sure every one of them who read this part will get…
All the Weiss boys and fans reading this were now glaring at me, knowing that I was going to be in a heap of good stuff soon once my birthday starts and were now jealous.
ShardclawK: Hey, now…it's not my fault that being an anime deprived otaku who gets hot chicks from writing stories is now getting cool goodies…cut me some slack!
Dizzy: Shardclaw-sama…let's make a run to the master bedroom, where all the other girls missed your company and are quite…'hungry'.
ShardclawK: I can imagine all of your appetites by now…especially now I have to deal with catgirl versions of Yomiko, Nancy, Sakaki, Tina Foster and the cow girl version of Taeko. Oh, well…it's a hell of a lot safer than staying around here, getting the glares of many, many people. Take me to your haven, girls and be nice to me!
Ran: How does he get to do that? I wonder about it sometimes…
Youji: Well, I do hope he gets to enjoy his birthday somehow. As of us, I'm sure he hasn't forgotten to involve us more in this story's companion fic, Soldier X. Anyway, reviews are appreciated as always, so see you around by the next update.
Collis aka ShardclawKusanagi.