The Friend of my Enemy

by Mercaba

A spring rain and a short walk bring Shinji to the the attention of a young woman that changes not only his destiny but the lives of all the staff of Nerv

15. Chapter 15

Standard Disclaimer

Man this story makes me worried. I love it but I'm worried its to big with to much going on to keep things straight. I'll never abandon it, but if things get to weird I might scale back a lil bit so it doesn't get all hard to read. Been snowing FAR to much here…stupid snow.

X-X

Friend of my Enemy

Chapter – 15

"Stand, bow!" Hikari ordered as the day of schooling ending yet again. Masses of students let out various sounds of joy and happiness. A few however let out a resounding groan as the class representative stood in front of one of the few escape hatches. "For those of you needing supplemental lessons, Asahina-kun will be here help you. Today's cleaners are Ayanami, Senguchi, Sakurai, and Minamoto-kun," Hikari's eyes lingered on the first and last names for a moment.

That didn't matter to Himari though, she worked out a little system with the class representative. Himari liked Hikari, the girl had discipline, but wasn't abusive about her authority and willing to listen. Getting out of her seat, fixing her skirt so those perverted other boys couldn't get a free glimpse, she approached her beloved. "Shinji-sama, if memory serves today be the day we shall have to ourselves?" Himari had gotten Chizuru to agree to it. It took a letting Shinji and Chizuru have a private training session the day before, but Himari would take what she could get.

"Shin-man you going to pick up those DVD's from me? I really think you'd like them," Kensuke asked just a trifle louder than the cat-demon. The lad had been right up at Shinji's side, fixing his glasses as a cover for stealing a peek at Soryu's derriere as she got out of her seat. Sliding his computer, a tasteful background of a bikini clad woman of Chizuru's body type holding a blade more befitting Himari's hand on his screen, into his bag Kensuke was the classic otaku. His voice labored, "I even have some your girlfriend asked for. Though I'll need those back, you lucky bastard."

Her ponytail swishing about, Himari could only guess what that hussy wanted Shinji to watch. But they did offer tantalizing forays into the world of carnal bliss. Daintily lifting Shinji out of his seat with practiced ease, he was so light, Himari hugged his arm against her body. "Our time doth be much tarried, but if such be essential we can consent to your request," she laced him with a strict glare. The boy had to be kept in line or he'd take liberties, force her Shinji to play those mind addling video games. Himari hated those, she just couldn't play them to the level of skill she wanted. With Shinji's body a bundle of intoxicating heat at her side, "Shall we?" She wanted to get this started so she could get Shinji alone soon.

How odd how something so simple and basic took seat in her heart so quickly. While lovemaking was mind meltingly pleasurable, Himari just wanted to be with Shinji without other distractions. Talking with him, teasing him, training him, and all those small things she had wished to experience. Those years of watching him in her cat form, feeling both alone and with him unable to act left her emotionally starved much like he was. Now though, now she would get her fill of him and insure he never went wanting from her.

Patting Himari's hand, as if reading her mind, Shinji shared a moment of eye contact with her. His eyes light up brilliantly as they did. "Yeah Kensuke, Himari-san and I have stuff we have to do today. She's helping me work on my self-defense training, Nerv stuff," he was firm but respectful. Waving at Tayura as the lad grabbed the bucket and cloth for cleaning, and then Touji as the boy appeared to be walking towards the gallows, Shinji opened the door for his two companions. "As for those movies Chizuru-chan wanted, a-are you going to get in trouble for getting those? S-she said they were s-study aids," his face red enough to prove he knew exactly what Chizuru asked for.

Nodding at Ayanami, Himari was happy with the progress the wolf-girl was making. "Tis a marvel how astute and skilled yon Ayanami has become," she whispered hotly in Shinji's ear. He shivered as she knew he would, she could make him a frazzled mess when she wanted. And boy did she want that. A little rooftop training, sweating and grappling was on the plan for the day. Then after that…she'd let Shinji pamper her, love her, and then maybe as long as Soryu and Katsuragi weren't around once it got dark they'd…It had only been a few days but she was feeling that building itch within her. "Maybe in time ye shall be as skilled," Himari hoped Shinji never got skilled…it offered problems.

"Yeah, Ayanami-san really is taking to her lessons far better than I am. Asuka as well," Shinji flinched instantly after saying the novice slayer's name. While the atmosphere in the apartment was getting better, Shinji's friendship with Soryu was still sore point. Being as smart as he was, Shinji did his best to keep it from effecting things. "Anyway, what are your plans after we leave Kensuke?" he sagely shifted topic quickly.

Lapsing into a pleasant stroll as the two boys spoke of matters that Himari didn't concern herself with, the cat demon knew peace. Matters weren't ideal, but she got to live with her most cherished, bask in a normal life, and try to forget about her fate. Walking into the courtyard, a few giggling girls pointed at Shinji as they ran past, Himari only felt a little demonic taint today. They were holding back, observing, and Himari wanted it to stay that way. Fighting…each time she fought the battle rage increased in ferocity and threatened to claim her fully. Maybe training Shinji in the finer arts of his heritage wouldn't be bad, she'd get live with him longer! NO! NO, that was selfish, she was the guard not he.

Nearing the gates leading out to the street, a woman clad in a very teenage boy destroying maid outfit stood with a sickeningly wide smile. Several boys tried talking to her, but she just waved them off as the trio approached her. Once she saw her target though, Lizlet burst into a dainty run. Diving at Shinji with open arms, knocking him free of Himari's embrace, the tea-sprite added to the legend of Shinji Ikari mega-playboy. "Shinji-sama! I've been waiting to see you all week! Oh and Noihara-san, h-how are you?" Lizlet kept her arms wrapped around Shinji's waist as she hugged her. Her ample chest rubbed sensuously up and down against Shinji…maybe on accident.

A trickle of drool escaping his mouth, Kensuke openly gawked at the show of affection before him. It was to obvious that the blonde had aims, "S-so Shinji, care to explain this to me? Last time we went to that café you said Chelsie-san hated you!" Kensuke idly reached for his camera as several others passed by commenting on both the blonde's attractiveness and how 'Ikari got another.'

Prying the busty maid away from Shinji, Himari noticed the sprite had a small box in one of her oversized pockets. "So what do we owe the pleasure of thy company, servant? Tis not normal for a maid to leave her employ," Himari was not liking the looks of this. Hell Himari didn't like Lizlet at all for purely selfish reasons, more competition. The battle with the tsukumogami had been just over a week ago, and Himari could still feel the shame. She had nearly slain an innocent, her mind wanting to really. The dark thrill, desire to feed on the bodies of her foes had grown and taken over. She failed her master again, and only Shinji's quick actions prevented a horrible mistake. "And tis that a gift in thy frock or be you not quite as feminine as expected," Himari had to get Shinji's attention away from the new girl.

Pulling out the oaken box, inlaid with fine etchings and patterns, the brilliant blue eyed maid fell in step with the others. Standing at Shinji's other side, almost skipping, Lizlet pawed at Shinji's arm, "Oh Shinji-sama, you're so silly. I could never hate my most valued customer, and please c-call me Liz?" Her eyelashes batted playfully as she shook her body tellingly. Making every effort to draw attention away from everything else, Lizlet put the box in Shinji's hands and held them. "You have to take responsibility, Shinji-sama," now THAT got the attention of the few students around them.

"R-responsibility for what L-Liz-san?" Shinji was thankfully either immune to the charms of Lizlet or oblivious to them. One of the traits Chizuru and Himari loved was Shinji's inability to see his effects on women, or how easily he could claim them if wanted. Opening the box as they stopped at a crosswalk, Shinji gasped softly, "It's your cup!"

Damn spirit just HAD to say it like that, Himari clenched her fist over the sheath of her temporary blade. Thankfully Shinji couldn't get the blond pregnant, "Is truly rare for one such as you to give such a valued gift. Perhaps ye may say why such has come to be?" Himari knew though, that sinking sensation of dread was washing in. The sprite was in love with her savior most likely. Another more attractive woman, better able to use their body and mind in ways Himari couldn't. Must she always be at the disadvantage when it came to winning her master's heart? "Be careful with that Shinji-sama," she couldn't be upstaged here on her day, "such is a rare and delicate gift."

Walking backward across the intersection, Kensuke alternated between the cup in Shinji's hand and the impishly beautiful Lizlet. "Chelsie-san I didn't know you had such a pretty cup. Oh, by the way, what school do you go to? I haven't seen you around classes," Kensuke was none to subtly trying to cut into Shinji's territory. Much to Himari's relief the boy did break in between Shinji and Lizlet when they reached the other side of the street. "Can I hold it?" Kensuke reached for the cup only to have the maid catch his arm.

Putting the cup back in the box, Shinji covered it with the glut of tissue paper already inside before latching it shut again. "I don't think that's a good idea, Kensuke. It looks really fragile and it'd be a shame to damage it," Shinji moved to hand it back to Lizlet but she just shook her head. Coming up to Kensuke's apartment, "S-so do you work today Liz-san?" His hands clenched around the box protectively as they walked, eyes never leaving the smooth chocolate brown of the lacquer box.

Taking the box easily from Shinji's hands, Himari pinched Shinji's cheek as he boggled at her. "Do thou not trust me in matters of the physical," she saw that the red on his face wasn't all from the pinch. Sliding the parcel into her satchel, Himari patted it to insure it was snug and not jostling. "Yes Chelsie-kun, what schooling has thou done, and shant you be delayed from your daily duties," take the hint girl and go away! Himari did not want to share today, she shared Shinji enough with Chizuru and the young Ayanami.

"Well you haven't heard of my school, it's…a private one," Lizlet didn't take her eyes off Himari's bag. She made a halfhearted move to round Kensuke to get closer to Shinji, but Kensuke matched it keeping her in place. Pulling her satin gloves on tighter, Lizlet pouted cutely at being refused, "As for work, this is on the way to the café, and I so wanted Shinji-sama to take this tea cup to use however and whenever he wishes." She put her finger to her mouth and bit down on the knuckle playfully.

Missing the double entendre wonderfully, Shinji started heading up the steps towards Kensuke's apartment complex. "Well we'll be right back. No reason for us all to go up there right? Let's go Ken," Shinji shooed the fawning male into the building past the security door. Once the door shut, Shinji pulled on Kensuke's arm to keep him moving, the camera having snapped a few pictures for likely later sale. The vanished up the stairs, Shinji's mouth moving in idle banter to distract his friend from the event they just shared.

Patting her bag, Himari tapped her foot against the hard ground. "So care to let this one know of your aims spirit? Master Shinji may have forgiven you for your attempt on his life. Twas a terrible kerfuffle that occurred at yon shoppe," Himari watched the blushing maid cautiously. Perhaps it was all a lie, to lull Shinji and her into complacency so she could strike. But those touches, words, and even her aura had shifted since that foul day. Circling around the frowning maid as cat she was, Himari would strike if needed, but hoped not. Gasping the girl by the shoulders, leaning in close and personal, "To put yon life in master's hand, the hands of a slayer, shall I believe it?"

Rubbing her hands together, Lizlet twirled her thumbs in circles. "He saved my life now he owns me. S-Shinji-sama, h-he's different than the others! He's manly, and cute, and the girls say he has a p-pe…they say he's twelve inches big and…" she just continued to babble incoherently for several minutes. "S-so I want him to o-own me he'll protect me and love me and…it's just-just perfect!" she ended her prostration of love just as Shinji appeared on the steps walking back down frazzled in his own right.

What did that other boy ask of her master to get him so wide eyed? Kensuke and Touji, Tayura only to a lesser degree, were well known for asking strange things of Shinji. Himari overheard two requests for undergarments of Katsuragi and her own, even offering money for them. Her master was good enough to say no instantly. Helping herself to a feel of Lizlet's chest, she had to know the competition and to show the pecking order, Himari boggled…she was smaller than the sprite! Lizlet was just more attractive than she was, thankfully Shinji and she shared more than just physical attraction.

"Did yon friend provide those disks as stated and nothing else? Shinji-sama doth look a bit piqued," Himari stopped her groping as she felt to hard nubs grow, rock hard. Not good to give Shinji the view of those likely bright pink nubs, so she hoped Lizlet controlled herself. Sauntering over to Shinji, "Not another strange bequest made upon thy from those odd friends of yours? As for you maid, should thee not be on thy way?" Making shooing motions, Himari was ready for the stress to go away. The stress of worry and fear, of being replaced. Oh, she knew Shinji would never outright replace her, he cared and she trusted him. But with growing options, it wasn't unlikely to see her private time lessened due to ill practice on her part in favor of better partners.

Scratching his cheek, a tell of nervousness that the boy didn't know he had, Shinji nodded fiercely. "Y-yeah he had the movies Chizuru-san asked for, and a few you might like actually," he gazed at Himari warmly. So it wasn't all for Chizuru, it never was when it came to Shinji, he did appear to try and provide equally for both Chizuru and Himari. "As for your cup, Liz-san, if you're sure you want hold it for you…I will. I'll protect it with my life. But won't having it away from you be troubling?" Shinji stood a respectable distance away from the lady.

Heading right over to Shinji, bending over to show a tantalizing glimpse down her uniform, Lizlet pawed playfully at his chest. "Oh no worries about that, Shinji-sama. This teacup is for your use at all hours of the day. I trust you with my life, as you did save it," she left her open palm against his chest. "Oh my, you're much stronger than expected. My co-workers are going to be so jealous," she shocked the two by openly kissing Shinji's cheek. Skipping out of the blow Himari aimed at the back of her head. She flexed her fingers into a heart shape before bowing, "See you later Shin-sama, Noihara-san."

Did Shinji not know the cup was the real body and the visual representation just a physical manifestation? Himari had to hope Shinji realized that by taking the cup he was letting Lizlet into his home…whenever she wanted to be there. "Come, Shinji-sama," she teased with that name with mock harshness, "We will forego our training today to view a film." And they'd maybe watch some of it this time. It was time to remind Shinji of whom HE belonged to.

Oh and Himari did that day. They did get back, chatting and teasing as they walked. Shinji truly didn't have a clue of what his taking in of Lizlet's cup meant, Himari did not inform him of it either. The movie was a historical piece, and Himari had been enthralled by it. The story was much like her own, only with the sexes reversed. And as the bodyguard claimed the lips of the maiden he protected, Himari replicated it.

Gentle when he wanted to be, Shinji made her melt into his embrace…this was worth all the pain and training. When he claimed her on the couch, and then his room, she took charge a little. It was outside her comfort zone, taking the initiative in the bedchamber but it was heavenly. Shinji would never ask her of anything he'd think would demean her, but if she asked…well his pinky went somewhere new as did her tongue, not the same place but she did love his taste.

It was dirty on both sides, but oh dirty was needed on occasion to remind those of what it meant to be clean. So when Shinji replicated Himari's oral pleasing, she had to accept his time with Chizuru had a side benefit. By the time he finished, his face dripping with honey, she was a quivering mass of pure mind lulled bliss. Snuggling against him, her tail and ears popped out…and Shinji started sniffling and sneezing. Yes Kuesu would pay for that…and pay dearly. Just think of what she could do with her tail if he didn't react negatively to it.

X-X

"At least Ayanami works hard," Tayura moaned as he finished his portion of the cleaning. He had chalkboard and desk duty, but it looked like he'd have to take out the trash as well if he wanted to leave at a fair time. While Rei took to cleaning the windows with her usual emotionless passion, she at least worked steady and finished. Sad thing was, the wolf-girl didn't offer to assist anybody else in their tasks and just left. Stupid Nerv for getting those pilots out of work. "You two almost done?" he stole a glimpse of Asahina, Touji, and the others…but it was really just Akane he was interested in.

Stuffing his bag full of papers, mostly hidden lunch wrappers, Sakurai lumbered about in a daze. The lad, a portly boy with greasy hair and a bad complexion shrugged listlessly. "Yeah I'm done, but could you take it to the burn bin for me? I have to meet some friends at Relish," his voice cracked with the late onset of puberty. Rubbing his sweaty palms on his jeans, he let the sack list against his leg.

Doing her makeup with one hand a mirror in her other Senguchi plucked at her eyelashes. "Tubby here did my work for me. Took him long enough too," she shot the poor kid a withering glare. Closing her compact, the faux tanned girl strode up to Tayura with her hands on her hips. "Hey, Minamoto-kun, you're friends with Ikari-san right? It true he's hung like a horse and has a upwards of seven women?" she couldn't maintain eye contact.

Picking up Sakurai's bag he waved the portly boy off, no reason for Tayura to leave him at the mercy of the fame hound. Hefting the bag over his shoulder, he stained his hearing to spy on Akane…she was teaching one of the remedial students a few calculus hints. Considering failing a test on purpose, "Yeah I'm Shinji-kun's friend. As for the other…I'm not sure I should tell you about stuff like that. Why do you want to know?" Maybe he'd stop by mother's before going back to the apartment, he'd only stopped by once since Chizuru informed him of the new place. Yukihana was likely listening in right now too…to much details to worry about.

Poking Tayura just below his lower lip, the girl just sounded annoyed. "Look, all I want to know is if it's true is all. Rumor has it he can really make a girl feel it you know…not like my ex. I want to know what a real man feels like, and I'm likely better than whatever little girl wasting his time," Senguchi's haughty nature billowed out of her.

Taking the bag from Tayura's hand, Yukino stepped between the two students and put her free hand on Senguchi's shoulder. "Rumors are no reason to engage in such events with others," the pale teacher continued to prod the tanned girl. Opening the door she gave Tayura a quick nod before shutting it behind her. Softly as the teacher continued to speak though, "Firsthand account from the office does indicate that the rumors are correct though." Senguchi's squeal was loud enough to be clearly heard.

Falling into a chair, one of the few he hadn't stacked, Tayura just shook his head. Leave it to Yukihana or whatever she wanted to call herself to both save him and ruin things in the same move. If Senguchi had been the first to ask about Shinji would have been simple, but she was the third this week alone. "Glad I know he's not the type to just fuck and run," Shinji wouldn't be his friend if that was the case. His gaze fell to the study group, they were packing up for the day. "Maybe now I could…" yeah he had to make the move.

"Damn Asahina-san can't you go easy on us for a single day? We've fixed the problems with the homework, isn't that enough?" Touji cried out desperately. Cramping his papers into a book, wrinkling and crumpling them, Touji was in a mad dash to escape as soon as possible. Waving at Tayura, "Tayura you speak some sense into her. All work and no play makes Asahina a dull girl! Nobody wants to date dull girls."

Leaning in close to Touji, face inches away from his, Akane was perturbed. "Don't talk back to one that's trying to help you! And I…I don't just work all the time, I have fun too!" she had her hands on her shapely backside as she encroached on her prey. The other students, two girls and a boy, took Touji's action as a sacrifice to save them. They slowly backed away as Touji and Tayura were brought into the Akane hurricane.

"Touji, she's right," Tayura moved to defend the girl he liked. Their talk about helping each other get with the girl's they set their aim on popped to mind. "She's just trying to get you to put your best foot forward…so how about a compromise?" he didn't like seeing Akane standing so close to Touji. She was leaning in close, to close to Touji. "H-how about if you do good with your studies well…we all go out to a movie on Sunday?" a date…a date with Asahina!

Standing up straight, Akane coughed into her hand to mask her embarrassment. "I accept!" she stuck her hand out at Touji, "You do good enough we'll go see a movie. Your treat though." She fixed her glasses and blessed the two males with a heart melting smile. "Well not chickening out on me are you Suzuhara?" she looked at her extended hand.

Touji had to shake his head hard to knock whatever ambient thought he had out of his brain. Grasping Akane's hand, Touji gave it a solid pump. "I'm no coward! Just you watch I'll destroy those questions, and come Sunday I'm picking the goriest horror film ever! You guys won't know what'll hit you!" Touji puffed his chest out in a show of dominance. Winking at Tayura, Touji shared a moment of camaraderie.

"A-all of us, yeah! We can make a day of it. Chizuru, Shinji, and maybe even Hokari-kun," Tayura leapt on a chance to help Touji. If the jock could get Tayura's girl to the movies, he could get Touji's! Make it look like a normal friendly outing, and then pounce! Well it would be simple as long as Chizuru didn't go full on make-out in the theatre. Though…maybe it would get Akane a little curious about it? His excitement growing as Akane appeared to consider it, "Maybe even get Kensuke and…uh…"who could he try setting Kensuke up with… "Shinji's friend Shizuka!" The girl had no reason to decline, not like she cared for anybody else.

Suddenly back peddling, her tiny hand going to her less than modest bust, Akane alternated between both boys. Grabbing her satchel and using it as a shield, she examined the floor carefully. "I-I guess it's a d-date then! You better work hard though, I won't just let you slide through," she nodded and twirled on her foot. Flipping her satchel over her back, her fingers limply holding it, "W-well I better get going. Say 'hi' to Ikari-kun and your sister." And the girl practically skipped out the door.

Leaning against Touji, Tayura's heart was pounding and his head was foggy. "T-thanks man. I didn't know if you'd go along with me," that smile she had it was divine! Akane might not have the bombastic qualities his sister or Noihara had, but Akane had a simple yet wonderful quality about her. Fixing the few desks that Akane and her group had used, Tayura found Touji still staring at the door. "Touji, something wrong?" oh he hoped Touji wasn't changing camps on who he liked.

"C-Class-rep what are you still doing here? Shouldn't you be at your part time job already?" Touji's hand shot out graspingly for Tayura. Touji's Adam's apple jumped up and down like a jugglers ball, yanking Tayura to his feet. "Di-did you hear our little bet with Asahina-kun? I d-do good enough on my papers we're all going to a movie on Sunday…if you're free I mean," he spun Tayura around, "Tell her…it's a group thing!"

With Touji's hands on his back and shoulders, Tayura found it impossible to escape. Being waved about like a talisman, Tayura suspected Touji was feeling what he had been a few minutes ago. Taking a step towards the puzzled looking representative, "Yeah! We were planning a little social outing to break up the monotony. Shinji-kun always gets to go out with Chizuru or Noihara, why should they have all the fun?" The sun played majestically with the girl's face, Tayura noticed, she looked almost radiant if you liked freckles and the like.

Taking a single halting step towards the boy, Hikari braced herself with the doorframe. "I'll have to clear it with my boss…switch shifts. But I s-should be able to. I did over hear the little wager, and bets are against school policy. But it's for a good cause so I won't say anything. You'll have to get Ikari-kun and Minamoto-san's approval first of course. D-do you think it'd be alright if I invited Asuka along too?" she tugged on her skirt a little anxiously.

Sharing a look with Touji, Tayura could see that they shared the opinion. No, they didn't want the angry German slayer to join the hopeful beginning of a relationship. But if they truly wanted a chance with their respective lady friends, some sacrifices were necessary. "Sure you can. Maybe I won't ask Shizuka after all…keep the pairings balanced," as long as none of Shinji's other ladies showed up. Tayura suspected if Shinji brought all the ladies that had feelings for him they'd take up a full row.

"It's a date then! You better dress nice now, Minamoto-kun, Suzuhara," Hikari waved coquettishly at them and scampered off. A few other students passed the door pointing at the girl, what they said though was to muffled to be heard.

Confidence bubbled up into jubilation and Tayura leapt into the air letting out a mighty cheer. "We did it! We got dates!" he gave Touji a hi-five so hard his fingers tingled. While it wasn't a date-date, it was something! His body was as light as air, energy coursed through him like lightning…was it real…did it really happen?! Spinning around like the world's worst ballerina, "We'll have to get Shinji to promise to NOT bring anybody other than Chizuru. And I'll have to bribe her to keep her hormones in check, but we did it!"

Quite the same as Tayura, Touji's face was plastered with a dopy grin. "Did you see the class rep? Man she looked pretty in the light like that," Touji was whimsical as he gathered his things. Heading for the door, he waggled his bag at it. "Let's get going, we got planning to do. We can't just walk into this unprepared. You take care of Shin-man and your sister. I'll talk to Kensuke about his glorious sacrifice for our betterment," Touji's tone dropped to a dark and firm place. Their geeky buddy would NOT have a choice in the matter, Kensuke was going to be Asuka's companion if the girl went. If not, well maybe Shinji could lend Kensuke someone.

Walking on air, Tayura didn't even feel bad knowing he'd either have to pay for Chizuru or bribe her regardless. And while yes the class representative had looked quite striking bathed in golden sunlight, she couldn't hold a candle to Asahina. Plans were already forming, dreams of holding hands, talking softly in the dark theatre…oh this was going to be good. "Be good to get Shinji-kun's mind off whatever is bothering him too. He's been odd lately," Tayura stuffed his hands into his pockets. Chizuru and Noihara were so close they couldn't see it, but Tayura noticed.

"You see it too huh?" Touji pulled the extra sandwich he bought for lunch out and started munching. Taking large bites of the bread, his was nearly as lost as Tayura was. "I heard him muttering to the Kraut about a quest or something. Think he's playing a game or something? Always thought Ken was the game-man," Touji popped the rest of the sandwich into his mouth and chewed big.

Quest? Kuesu was Shinji talking to Asuka about that slayer? Tayura came to a stop and suddenly felt a chill work down to his feet. "I'll ask him about that, I'll ask Chizuru as well. Maybe he is playing something that he's not telling us," Tayura prayed it was a game. As they shared the sidewalk, the two boys chatted about their plans for Sunday. What to wear, how to plan the seating, and countless other potentials.

But Tayura's mind wasn't so fixated on the joys of teenage love anymore. His thoughts were pulled towards the man that was thrust into his life. Shinji, what was he hiding when nobody was looking. Tayura trusted Shinji with Chizuru's life and his own, but what was Shinji hiding? He had watched the second of the three training sessions Shinji had, even going so far as a light spar with Shinji, so it wasn't a fear of weakness anymore. Without Chizuru's aid they were fairly well matched, with Chizuru well…Tayura feared they day their 'power of love' failed to beat something. Still no Light Ferry, but Shinji could protect himself with a few hand to hand techniques the German and Noihara taught him.

"Well, I'll see you tomorrow. I'll see to Ken and hit the books. I won't risk losing out on this because I messed up," Touji pumped his fist in determination. "And, if you don't get a chance to talk to Shin-man, let me know. I'll try talking to him if you don't. Maybe if we both confront him he'll tell us. He looks haunted…like he's thinking dark thoughts. How can he be upset if even half those rumors are true," a pervy grin blossomed on Touji's face before he headed off towards his home.

Knowing most of those rumors were true, Tayura clenched his fists even tighter. Touji was exactly right, Shinji was happy, so much so that even Tayura could see it. So why was the bastard hiding things from them? "He's trying to find that Kuesu girl I bet, but why?" he asked himself as he made his way home. The man that had his sister's heart in his hand, a beautiful bodyguard, and the strange wolf-girl…what was he plotting.

Pressing his cardkey against the lock, Tayura dropped his satchel and kicked his shoes off the instant he got in. "Chizuru, I'm home! What do you want for supper?" with Shinji heading off with Himari, Tayura knew their normal chef wasn't going to be over tonight. Having overheard Chizuru and Shinji's latest post make-up session, in the bathroom this time, Tayura knew the issue with the last Guardian was a thing of the past. Pinching his nose, not good getting a nosebleed now, Tayura found Chizuru on the couch focused intently on something in her lap. "What are you working on?" he tried stealing a glimpse. She was knitting?

Jabbing her left thumb with one of the large needles, Chizuru yelped and stuck the bleeding appendage in her mouth. "Jerk! Can't you be more delicate when you come in and start yelling?" she said in her haughty and impatient manner. Chizuru was only like this with Tamamo or Tayura, impish and spoiled. If Shinji were here, well that'd be a different story, Chizuru was different for Shinji she was better. Lowering her creation down to her lap, the girl grabbed and applied another bandage to her fingers. The count was up to five, two on the right hand and three on the left. "And as you can see I'm making my Shin-chan a gift," she held up her piece of fabric.

"You're making him a…" Tayura knew he fell into a trap the moment he started talking. What Chizuru was holding didn't look like anything useful. It was an unaligned and messed up collection of thick black thread. "Apron" he risked a guess and knew he was wrong. Seeing Chizuru's face scrunch up in agitation bordering anger, he rose his hands up. "I'm not a good judge of fabric, sis!" he could hope she'd not attack him, "but I know Shinji'll love it no matter what it is."

The Shinji gambit worked, and Chizuru sank back into her seat a rosy blush adorning her face. Staring her knitting again, faster this time, "He will love it! Shin-baby loves everything I do for him, and I can't say I don't feel the same." Only Shinji's efforts to please Chizuru were normally of higher quality than whatever Chizuru did. "This will get him to stop talking to that little girl he lives with. He doesn't need to train with her now…not that he has me. He'll stop worrying about things," she slowed and the mask of ditzy complacency faded to her genuine concern. "It's a scare imbued with my hair, it'll keep him safe," she jabbed herself again.

She knew, Chizuru knew Shinji was up to something but kept it to herself. "I'll make your favorite shrimp curry," Tayura left his sister to tend to her wounds. She was going through a real effort for Shinji, just as he did for her. Say what they would about Chizuru being flighty and just a pretty face, she loved Shinji purely and honestly. He'd do what he could to support Chizuru in this, and punch Shinji square in the gob if whatever he was planning hurt her. "But he likely has a good reason, he always does," Tayura pulled out his gear as he heard another yelp from the living room. A scarf…Shinji would love it, Tayura knew it for a fact.

X-X

It had been awhile since she had been summoned by the greater council, and Shizuka wasn't sure how she felt about it. When she was first tasked with hunting down the emerged slayer from the thought dead Ikari clan, Shizuka had no doubts. Slayers were all blind humans with the single minded drive to destroy any and all demonic entities. The order filled her with purpose, it provided her a means to get some factor of revenge against the slayer clans. It was impossible for true revenge as the clan responsible didn't make it through the great cataclysm.

Now standing before the shadows of the greater pure demons, she knew doubt. The slayer Shinji was not what she expected, not at all. He was kind and just, easy to goad, trusting to a fault, and as hard as it was for her to admit she liked him. The others though, Soryu and Jinguji were debatable. Soryu seemed to be learning to think before acting, another point in Slayer-kun's corner for that. It wasn't hard to see how the novice was always watching, trying to find fault with Shinji and his relationships. But Asuka could see nothing but positive, and it opened doors.

"My next scheduled report wasn't for two weeks. Is there a reason you requested my presence early? Or do you simply like looking at me?" Shizuka couldn't help her snark. They had the audacity to demand she show up early without any indication as to why, they could suffer a little. The red eyes watching her, always in shadow, waved and jingled about. They couldn't have been THAT offended…or maybe she was right. Shizuka's faux human form waved a little back to her natural state, "I know I am attractive, but I require a fine evening out before you can touch."

It was the voice of the Yig that slithered out in its entire snake hissing glory. "You have not sssscene our numbersss are less than before? We are besssieged but forces unknown! Great powers have arose, Shuten-douji has gone rogue, and we hear rumors that the great Tamamo-no-Mae has come back. What have you to sssay about thisss?" the voice had that slithery quality Shizuka loved to tease with. Though this came from a creature that sounded much larger and angrier than she ever was.

Shizuka found it funny that despite the fact it was mid-morning the clearing was near pitch black. Humans were right when they thought some forests were haunted, this wasn't ghosts though. "I don't know much about Shuten-douji other than the old stories. He had been asleep for nearly all my life," Shizuka turned away from the first voice. She hated the Yig's mostly, they were impatient and cruel. The number of stories of violated humans found in Yig caves was incalculable. As for Shuten-douji, she had heard he was beheaded in ancient times…but nobody considered him dead. "If you forgot, I have been tasked with watching the slayer and the nine-tail not these other issues," and she loved her job.

A warbling female voice wafted out from the top of the trees, a lone eye accompanied the voice. "As Cara-sama stated, but not to the necessary degree, Shizuka, we face an issue. Some of the elders are dead or in hiding. Either this new slayer, Jinguji, Tamamo, Shuten, or the yet unidentified force is to blame. As you have done an exemplar job in tracing the young Ikari, we wish to offer you a chance for advancement," the tree shivered as a cold wind blew though the limbs. "If the Ikari-Slayer is as docile and peaceful as you state, we wish you to stop following them. We will order a low rank Inu to follow them, and let you take more important tasks," the request held a lofty quality to it.

Stop following after Shinji and his brood? Shizuka's hands fell to her side, her jaw went slack as the notion took hold. "You wish for me to change my duty?" she asked incredulously. Did she want that? No, not anymore she would confess to nobody but herself. When did that happen, when did she grow these feelings and desires to stay with a human a slayer no less! But she did, she enjoyed teasing and toying with the boy. He was like a puppy, a cute and loving puppy. "Is it a requirement that I shift? Kitsu-hime and Neko-hime require a more subtle touch to observe," she hoped she didn't sound as frail as she felt.

The second voice asked again, the other eyes were watching intently but made not a sound, "It is not a requirement, no. But if you decline you shall not be asked again, Shizuka. This is a great honor to be tasked with such importance. Our earlier concern that the might of the Ikari line might be used to destroy us, but from your own reports he is more likely to join us than fight us." A general rustling could be heard amongst the others present, half the normal number, all in agreement.

"I must decline. I do not trust others to be as impartial as I am when it comes to those I've been following," Shizuka told the half-truth. It would take time for another demon to learn to trust them as she had, but she just didn't want to be away from him. "Let me remain their observer, AND take on this other assignment. Tamamo-no-Mae claims to be Kitsu-hime's mother, and if Shuten hates humans as much as the legends he will likely hunt the last of the Ikari's," her desperation was profound.

Most hushed talking, conflicting voices in favor of and against mulled together. It was the Yig that responded in a rage filled roar, "Do asss you wish. But know that those missing have partially been found. Eaten, small mizuchi, and you would likely make nothing but a small morsel. The nine-tail should just be brought in and forced to do the council's bidding and not run free. The slayer put down, and the traitorous Noihara brought down into servitude!" The tree next to the Yig crashed and fell over revealing huge claw marks.

"Go now, Shizuka, go now and find out what you can of the legendary kitsune. Do this now, get her allegiance to the council if possible," the second voice demanded before the eye faded. One by one the other eyes blinked out leaving the glade in near darkness.

With a simple nod, she knew something was still watching her, Shizuka reverted to her natural form and swam back to the city along the waterways. The Yig was transparent enough in its rage. He wanted the easiest solution and most disgusting. If the council did what he wanted, Himari and Chizuru would end up chained in a Yig cave until whatever threat they had ended them all. Shizuka wouldn't let that happen, she'd betray the council before she'd betray…

Shizuka's body stopped moving. Pouring herself out of a sewer grate, the mizuchi stood before the bathhouse. Chizuru had ranted enough of her anger about the establishment that Shizuka could easily find it. But she wasn't ready to confront Tamamo again, not yet. "I would betray the council before I betray him," she felt her skin shiver and quiver with the boldness of that thought. What did it mean, that her allegiance was more to Shinji than those that initially sent her to him. "Watching him for so long…my little Slayer-kun…it was impossible not to have this happen I suppose," Shizuka smiled softly as she sat on the stoop of the bathhouse.

"Do you know where my brother is?" an energetic voice called out with sickening joy. A small girl in a simple black dress with white under shirt leaned her face closer to Shizuka. Her lips curled back revealing her teeth in a wicked grin, "You know don't you? I can't find him, but I've seen you with him a lot!"

Rattled from her thoughts of like and love, Shizuka cringed back against the steps behind her. "I don't know who you are so how can I know your brother?" Shizuka found it wasn't just one but two intruders. A young girl an older teenage looking girl…docile and quite looking as she and Puppy-kun. But she could feel it, there was a suppression field around them, she could see the humans already bypassing them. "Why would your brother leave you two behind, have you been bad?" she quipped as she got to her feet.

Moving to put Shizuka into flanking position, the younger girl just continued to smile her unsettling grin. "I'm Minori Mitama and this is my best friend Nue! We've been hunting for brother ever since we escaped those nasty Tendril's Leaf people. But once we find brother everything will be alright," Minori stretched her hands above her head.

Tendril's Leaf, the hive of demon animals…they'd always hate the pure bloods, and Shizuka could only think of what they'd make. "Well I don't know anybody named Mitama other than you, so maybe you should…" Shizuka expected the attack and wasn't surprised. Leaping backward as Minori's arms shot forward and destroyed the concrete step she had stood. Shrapnel and dust billowed out and filled the air with a cloud. "No wonder they locked you up, crazy people should be in a padded cell," she lashed out a tendril of water in the direction both attacks had last been.

Minori's voice cackled from up above the ground. "Sister is so silly! She can't hurt either of us, we've eaten t good lately!" her jovial account was followed up with a wet splat. With the dust settling an appendage of what looked like a giant insect was on the ground, a demon animal's forearm. "Now tell us were brother Shinji is so we can go play with him!" Minori's decree.

Spotting the duo flying above her, the girl Nue had a pair of giant raven wings flapping hard enough to keep them floating. "How did I know that was who you were after, it's always Slayer-kun," what did he do this time? Dashing forward as a trio of raven feathers flung out from the wings and imbedded into the concrete a step behind her. Feeling the weight of the damage, Shizuka smiled as she realized they didn't have magical means of hurting her just physical. Standing still as another trio of feathers shot through her form doing no damage, "You'll have to try harder to get information from me. But then again I don't know where Slayer-kun is." Was it getting colder all of the sudden?

"Nue she wants to play with me now, would you please," Minori giggled at a pitch painful to hear. At her command her servant spun around in a fast circle and launched the small girl like a missile. "Catch me! Catch me!" she chorused as she torpedoed at her target.

Far be it for Shizuka to stop somebody that wanted to face plant into concrete. Her immaterial body could easily let the girl pass through and then this little issue would be over. This girl wasn't of importance, her mission was, and letting her Slayer-kun know he had a pre-teen fan. "Not the smartest are," Shizuka felt teeth bit down hard on her arm, "y-you?" Looking down at the body, Shizuka could see the teeth of the girl biting down into her watery arm. "How did…what?" Shizuka never felt pain like this before.

Flying closer to the ground as Shizuka fell to her knees, Nue let her wings dissolve into her back. "Minori-sama is hungry. Answer her and maybe she will let you live," the voice came out warbling and strange. It was as if the vocal cords weren't normally made for humanoid speech. Kneeling before Shizuka face to face, she asked emotionlessly, "Where is Shinji-sama. We know he is in this town, but it is overloaded with demons and demon-animals making it impossible to locate him by aura."

She was being drunk, how was this possible? Already her left hand was gone, only a water stump that was shrinking fast. "If you were thirsty, I could…get you some tea. I know a good place," Shizuka tried joking through the pain. To think it would end here, her body was paralyzed and being devoured. Trying for form a lance of water, something to pry or stab this tiny terror off was impossible. Whatever this girl Minori was, she was keeping Shizuka from immobile other than talk. "Just know that your brother will hate you for this," numbness was creeping in on her.

As Minori continued to feed, now forcing Shizuka to the ground and up to the mizuchi's shoulder, Nue watched impassively. "He will never know of this. Who will tell him of Minori-sama's actions?" Nue shrugged her shoulders. Kneeling down over Shizuka, the servant didn't seem upset at all at the events before her.

With all her might, Shizuka tried the sum up some form of defense, but was unable to. "He'll know, Slayer-kun is like that," Shizuka felt more of her being taken from her. So this was the end, taken out in a show of stupidity. She had thought this foe far too simple and she'd pay for it. "Funny now…now that I realize it," she would die after realizing it wouldn't she. She wasn't watching over Shinji just on orders. At first that had been it, but after the months of observation, well it changed. It didn't hurt that she did watch him drive women into an unconscious lump of pleasured bliss. "Shame he'll never get to do that to me. Should have…asked…maybe he'd…" her vision started to fade.

Cold, Shizuka felt so cold, almost like being back at that onsen after the volcano. Her eyes closed as the pain faded and all she felt was cold. Maybe she should have acted on her feelings before now, and not denied herself her true feelings. She didn't love Shinji, not yet, but she knew it was close and moving closer to it each time she watched him with Chizuru or Himari. It wasn't disgust she felt when she counted the times the cried out in ecstasy, it was jealousy. "But I will never, he will never…Shinji," she said his name, the nickname wasn't good enough for the last utterance of his name.

"Oh my, my daughter's lover has quite a lot of followers," Tamamo tittered from behind her kimono's sleeve. The mighty nine-tail kitsune had her tails out and glowing majestically as a yellow billowed out and surrounded the injured mizuchi. "Good morning cutie, you've been asleep since we chased those nasty children away," Tamamo informed and lowered Shizuka into waiting warm bath.

Eyes fluttering open, Shizuka was ill prepared for finding the glamorous Tamamo hovering above her. Not standing but literally hovering no an invisible platform above the bath. Healing magic could be felt pouring into her from Chizuru's mother, "W-what happened? How did you save me? Why?" Shizuka had come to spy on them, to try and force their allegiance to her previous masters. But now Tamamo was healing her, was it a trap?

Cupping Shizuka's cheek, Tamamo just put a finger to the mizuchi's cheek. "Talk later young one, heal now. I'll let my daughter know you're here, likely Shin-chan is worried about you. He does fret so when those he cares for are missing. Should I tell him you called out for him?" she winked mischievously at the prone demon. "Maybe I should impose bill on that lovely young man. He HAS paid it before, and while I am old I do look quite young don't I?" she pulled back and opened her kimono to show the silky smooth skin behind it.

Damn things were utters, bigger even than Chizuru's and that left Shizuka feeling inadequate. "Let me tell him when I'm ready," she really hoped Shinji wasn't a breast-man. So far everybody he had been with was larger than her, Ayanami not THAT much bigger than her but still… "For now can I sleep, I feel…unwell," and that was an understatement. The wounds were healing and her arm coming back, but bedeviled healing took a lot out of her without…well…with Shinji she got off, on her own its just concentration. She'd not even humor asking Tamamo to join the council, she was beyond them, and Shizuka had doubts if she'd go back to them outside of messages from now on. She'd tell him soon.

X-X

Sitting on the floor under the living room table, Chizuru arched her fingers over her unattended homework. How could she focus on stupid mathematics when Shinji was sitting across from her trying to focus! It was criminal to not tease and toy with him, punishment for his time with Himari the day before. A girl had to remind her man who should be most important to them, and it was devilishly fun to prod him unexpectedly. With Tayura off with that meat head Suzuhara plotting the weekends little movie date, it left the apartment theirs. Well Ayanami was up on the roof practicing but Rei knew not to bother.

"C-Chizuru-san!" Shinji yelped as Chizuru's foot caressed his inner thigh, "I'm trying to get this finished." But he didn't sound to upset or even bothered at the affection. His face was red, his body squirmed away from the offending foot, but the smile was wide and brilliant. "If we don't get this done soon we won't have time to hang out before you go in for…whatever it is Akagi-san wants," Shinji did his best to be strong willed.

It was adorable when he tried to fight back, like putty in Chizuru's advances. "I don't know what you're talking about Shinji-kun. And you know what you're supposed to call me when we're alone," she had to be cruel to be kind. Her foot launched a surprise assault. Arching up high enough to brush her knee to the table, she circumvented the wall of Shinji's legs and struck at his vital core. It was hot and hard already against her sock covered foot. Now that made him wiggle, "Something wrong Shin-chan?"

Eyes clenching shut hard, Shinji doubled over his book as his voice rose up several octaves. "That's not fair, Chizu-chan and you know it! W-we don't have time for this right now…we should focus!" but his expanding against her foot was telling enough. Whimpering and labored breathing, Shinji finally yanked his head back as a nearly feral look beset him. Closing his book, "Well two can play at this game then!" In a rare showing of dominance, Shinji pulled out from under the table and playfully leapt over the table.

That was another thing Chizuru found adorable about her darling Shinji, when he acted unexpectedly. "Oh Shin-chan!" she cooed as she quickly found herself on her back. He was normally so docile and accommodating, but the rare show of wanting was the icing on the cake. His hand skillfully went under her shirt and cupped her with practiced ease, toying with her with the exact amount of pressure. "What about your homework Shin-chan. Shouldn't we be working on that?" she panted as he tweaked he nub sending shivers of bliss down her spin. Oh she loved these moments. Once they finished…she'd give him her gift and demand he tell her what he was hiding. Priorities in all.

"You're incorrigible at times, Chizu-chan. Rei-san could come in at any moment, I've been trying to get work done for since we got here from school, and NOW you tell me that?" Shinji teased. With his hand still groping and twisting his girlfriend into a fevered pitch of moans and panting, he used his free hand to pull her shirt over up to her neck. Hovering over her, Shinji's eyes lost focus, the wanting fading into concern and fear. "Chizuru…" he paused warring with some internal debate, "I don't deserve you…you know."

No matter how many times he saw her, despite her toying with him, there was a thrill of being seeing like this by Shinji. Vulnerable, at nearly her most open and unabashed before him, she felt accepted more than ever in her life. Pulling his shirt off, she saw him warring with himself again, more proof he was planning something. "You don't, but I never put much worth on things like that. So I'll suffer you since you make me feel…" she couldn't toy anymore. It was fun, but with his expression she'd risk him stopping. Wrapping her arms around his neck and pulling him closer down, "We deserve each other, Love, never forget that."

Laying on his side, Shinji's hands explored Chizuru's back as they embraced. He tasted sweet, he must have eaten an orange before coming over from his apartment. The hand not on her back slowly went down between her legs, pressing in just enough against her bud. Breaking apart for a moment, "Chizuru, your fingers what happened?" He took small nibbles of her neck and shoulders as two of his fingers toyed with her folds and sank in just enough to drive her mad. He kept her moaning for over five minutes of skilled finger work.

He was doing this on purpose, Chizuru realized all the sudden. Her mind was fogging over, distracted from plan of getting his defenses down so she could get his secret. But she couldn't stop shucking her hips against his fingers, her beloved was far to skilled. "S-Sh-Shinji do-don't s-stop," she panted harder as she felt herself let loose and shudder against him…damn she was sensitive today. Eyes going closed as the electric pulse of finishing rocked her as Shinji's thumb rubbed her nub one final time. "You're…to good to me. But I know…you're hiding something me," she panted and laid heavily on him, feeling fatigued.

Keeping her secure in his arms, Shinji kissed her temple. "It'll all be over tonight, just trust me. You don't have to worry, I'll have Himari with me and everything," Shinji rocked back and forth holding her. While they did enjoy their time actually enjoying each other physically, it was moments like this they both cherished. Just being with one another, feeling that sense of unity. Talking, school working, cooking, or even some of the board and card games…anything when they could just be together was worth it. While not receiving much himself, Shinji didn't seem to care, "So your fingers?"

Mumbling as she felt sleep encroaching, Chizuru pushed herself away from Shinji's furnace like heat. It'd be too easy to pass out like this. "I made you a present to keep you safe when I'm not around," she kissed his nose and pushed herself up to her feet. Pulling her top back down, she'd need to take a shower now before Rei showed up to take her into Nerv. Grabbing the bundle of scarf she hand wrapped, she tossed it at Shinji. "You WILL tell me what you're doing tonight tomorrow right? If you don't I won't spoil you anymore," she hefted her babies up and winked at Shinji.

Unwrapping the present, Shinji pulled the scarf out and brought it up to his face and nose. "You-you made this for me? It smells like you," Shinji took a deep whiff of it. His eyes started to mist and redden, "C-Chizu-chan I'm touched. I haven't…haven't got anything for you. D-did I miss, this isn't an anniversary or something is it?"

Was it his slayer heritage or his love for her, Chizuru wanted to believe the latter. "I've woven my hair into it, it'll make it very strong against magic. So whatever little covert mission you have planned with the Black Cat make sure you wear it," she waggled her finger at Shinji. Her heart warmed just by seeing the awe on his face, was it so strange for him to get a gift? It was times like this that Chizuru forgot how nice her childhood had been compared to Shinji's. "Now you get that homework done, I have to take a shower and clean up the mess you made of me," she stuck her tongue out and vanished into the bathroom.

Shutting the door, Chizuru quickly disrobed and got a wicked idea. Opening the door again with her undergarments in hand, "Shin-chan want to join me?" She waggled her clothing like a black silken flag knowing he'd not though. His actions were all for her, pampering her and spoiling her in a preemptive effort to soothe her. Something stupid, he was going to do something stupid with the cat and she bet it had to do with that 'fiancé' of his. Jumping into the shower after giving Shinji a few moments to squirm, she hit the water hot and steamy. Jinguji, she'd have to teach that lil slayer a lesson in who was really in ownership of Shinji. But then there was the Cat, she knew something about Kuesu that she wasn't saying.

"I'll get her to talk to," Chizuru vowed as she got out and dried off. She could hear talking in the other room, Shinji and Rei were chatting. Her cherished little puppy/student. "That slayer is just a little girl. So what if she kissed Shin-baby, I do it all the time," she reaffixed her undergarments and clothing. Maybe her little pet was playing with Shinji, girl needed to get more skill if they were going to have another little three way. Shinji nearly broke her when they did, girl was not used to that type of joy yet. Walking out to find Shinji and Rei a safe distance apart, "Oh poo and here I thought you'd be showering my little puppy with a nice petting."

Getting to her feet the instant Chizuru entered the room, Rei gestured towards Shinji. "Alpha-I mean Shinji-kun, would not let me alleviate his obvious stress. When asked he insists it is not an issue," Rei took a lingering glance at Shinji. Her hands fidgeted and several times moved to grasp at him, but never did. "I would recommend you assist with the effort, but our time is to short. Katsuragi-san is insistent we leave on time, and Noihara-san is impatiently waiting outside for Shinji-kun," Rei tilted her head confused.

Following Chizuru and Rei to the door, Shinji tugged lightly on the scarf he sported. "I'll get you something for this, Chizuru-san," Shinji took hold of her hand. Leaning in to kiss her cheek, he was again the unwitting but not unwilling victim of her whims as she twisted to get a more intimate caress. After a few moments of play, Shinji pulled back and blushed at Rei, "S-sorry Rei-san, it's not polite to do that in front of others."

"It is if you share with her," Chizuru toyed and pushed Shinji into Rei. She watched as Rei capitalized, clumsily, on the gift she had given. No jealousy, it surprised Chizuru to not feel any negative emotions upon watching that. "Well best get moving or mother-in-law will be upset," and she noticed that Misato was always too pleasant with her. Forcing Rei apart from Shinji, Chizuru lead them out the door into Himari's waiting company. A few pleasantries, the two 'rivals' exchanged a look of knowing, and Chizuru headed to the parking lot and Misato's waiting car.

Asuka was in the front with Misato, engine running, when the two got in when Asuka let them. "Sorry to cut your little study session short, but by the look of it and smell I doubt you let him study much," Misato sniped as she put the car in reverse. "Rei-kun, thanks for keeping the time agreeable," Misato actually gave the albino a small smile in the rearview mirror.

Looking bored, Asuka's chin rested on her palm propped up on the window ledge. "I don't know why Shinji gets out of today's tests. I mean why do we have to go in and he gets to hang out with…that thing?" she sounded preoccupied though, something was on her mind.

"Well I had to give him my hand made gift, a scarf," Chizuru was not liking the double pronged attack. Soryu, what was Shinji doing talking to her in private!? Shizuka had to be bribed to tell her that, poor Shizuka. Girl was still at her mother's recovering from some attack. Good to know that if she saw a little girl and teenager asking questions to not get in mouth distance. Mother was a good healer, Shizuka would be up and spying in a day or so. "And I'm fine with only having a little of Shin-chan's time. We don't need to see each other ALL the time. And we have that date on Sunday. You still are going Soryu?" she'd have to keep an eye on that girl during it.

Turning the music up louder, Asuka kicked her legs over one another. "I'm going alright, but I thought this wasn't a date," Asuka grumbled. Shifting in her seat and changing the station from the news to a nice soft rock, she settled and tried to get into a better position. "Hikari could do better than those guys anyway," she twisted the music up again shutting off communication.

Chatting idly to Rei as best she could with the near earsplitting music, Chizuru didn't care what the fledgling thought. It was going to be a date, if only for Shinji and her. The drive was uneventful, she tested Rei on the best way to tease and a few tests on using their powers. Rei was an adept student, learning how to use her abilities quickly. Sadly Rei's powers were limited based upon her nature of creation, but they worked with what they had. Girl talk was still something Rei was lacking in, Chizuru found. Aside from Shizuka and a few girls at school, Chizuru didn't have many 'normal' girly conversations. Himari was to old school, Rei was socially awkward, and the others…didn't talk to her much.

"Well you go and take care of whatever Ritsuko wants, and after that have her see you out. Can't have civilians wandering around the base unattended," Misato ordered as the quartet arrived on base. Hitting the auto-lock button on the car, Misato pocketed her keys and fixed her hair. "Rei could you see Chizuru to Ritsuko, I have…a meeting the schedule that I rather not. I really-really don't want to set up this meeting," the captain frowned and ground a random cigarette butt into the ground. Actually smiling at Chizuru, "Don't let her do anything to you that you're not comfortable with. She gets excited and forgets sometimes."

Actually moved by the concern in Misato's voice, Chizuru actually waved as the captain and Second Child headed off to parts unknown. "That woman never ceases to amaze me. Some days I think she hates me, and others I think she's more worried about me than him," almost like Tamamo she realized. Linking arms playfully with Rei, Chizuru weaved back and forth as they walked. "You know anything about that meeting she was talking about?"

Head slightly tilted down, embarrassment or confusion ruling in her head, Rei led Chizuru by subtle arm pulls. "Katsuragi-san mentioned a UN chancellor wants a meeting with Shinji-kun. They feel he was not punished enough for his actions in regards to last angel. She wishes to speak with him, Katsuragi-san suspects an ulterior motive and is planning to attend the meeting with him," Rei gestured to a door and knocked on it hard. "Akagi-san's lab," she said simply.

Rubbing her nose against Rei's, Chizuru thanked the girl in the simplest way she knew how. "Now don't you wait for me, I'm sure you have work to do here to," Chizuru twirled Rei around on her feet. Giving Rei a light swat on the ass to get her going. Standing by the door for a moment though, she frowned as thoughts assailed her. He hadn't suffered enough? They, Himari and her, punished him as best they could and demanded a lot of TLC to make up for it. Nerv set their own terms on him, and now somebody else wanted more?

"Come in, Minamoto-kun, I've been waiting for you," Ritsuko called out from a small intercom on the door. The door opened revealing the black shorts and blue topped Akagi hanging over a computer her face illuminated by the monitors glow. "Turn the light of too when you come in. That is unless you like being poked and prodded in the dark," her subtle barb was not missed.

Flipping the switch on, Chizuru was reminded of how she actually liked this woman. While Misato was confusing, Ritsuko just didn't seem to mind Shinji and her relationship. "Oh I don't mind as long as I know the needle, and I can poke and prod back," if Ritsuko could mock so could she. Taking in the rather bland office, a medical bed, computer station, and the smell of chemicals and unknown fluids annoyed her nose and made her sneeze. Hopping up on the bed, "So what did you need me for? I'm just a charming young maiden in the world."

Sliding her chair over to Chizuru, Ritsuko's eyes were alive with anticipation and excitement. "I know the truth, Minamoto-kun, well as much as Misato knows. You, your brother, and even Shinji's bodyguard aren't human. As for Ayanami it confirms a few oddities in her physical, but I want to know more," she got up close to Chizuru and took the girl's hands into hers. "I want to know about you and your kind. I've never realized that d-demons existed, it goes against everything science has told me!" oh how joyous she sounded.

Well if this woman knew the truth, Chizuru could relax a little. But if they knew about her puppy, did that mean they knew who helped birth her? Nerv had to know, and Ritsuko was the chief scientist…but she hadn't always been. "Well as long as you don't take anything to personal I can help," she let her ears and tail out to a much enjoyed gasp of awe from Ritsuko.

For the next two hours, Ritsuko took every number of test she could think of including, after much prodding, a gynecological exam. Blood, hair, a few skin cells, and other fluids were all bottled and labeled. Ritsuko never shifted out of her overwhelmed and astonishment. Once the tests were over, the good doctor took out a bottle of pills and a second singular red capsule. "Take this please, it's a vitamin to help you recover from your…" she coughed delicately into her hand, "earlier actions today. Shinji-kun is making you a squirter or do you normally um…finish so hard?"

Popping the pill down her mouth and drinking the offered water, Chizuru wasn't normally one to be unnerved. "Well, Shin-chan is very good at what he does," was all she'd say. Truth was, Shinji just had an effect on her! Her few girlfriends growing up and solo efforts never ended so powerfully. Shaking the bottle of other pills, she recognized some of the chemicals, "These what I think they are?" She didn't want to be a parent yet, so maybe she should thank the good doctor.

"Well judging from the, stretching," Ritsuko licked her lips oddly, "I'm guessing our little Third Child should be called Third Man now. And while you might feel otherwise, we can't have him having children right now. The LCL acts to keep him sterile, but there are always a chance that after a period of him not testing he could…" she openly stated and put the bottle into Chizuru's hand.

For a moment, Chizuru considered just tossing them away. Something about how Ritsuko looked, her over eagerness made her wonder if maybe just maybe she was being lied too. But if she couldn't trust the woman in charge of Shinji's health who could she trust? She pocketed the bottle, with the intent on giving one to Yukihana to check out before taking it. "Thank you Akagi-san, you're a breath of fresh air compared to Katsuragi-san. She goes from being happy to have me around to being upset," she shrugged.

Finalizing some data she was taking, Ritsuko chuckled just a little, "That's mother hen at work. She's incapable of baring children so she's kind of adopted Shinji as her son I think." Turning back to her work, "You can see yourself out if you want, or wait for her to get of shift and get a ride home." And the scientist went fully into her work leaving Chizuru to wander Nerv alone and find her way to Rei's test. She'd wait and talk with her pupil, give Shinji the time he needed to…do what he needed.

X-X

Standing in the lobby of a posh upscale apartment, Shinji felt sick to his stomach for multiple reasons. He lied to Himari, he lied to Chizuru, and he had done it to see this Kuesu girl alone. But he had to! They were thinking that they had to attack her, that she was a threat. He didn't believe that, couldn't believe that she was so dedicated to blindness. From everything Asuka said about Kuesu, Shinji had to hope she was capable of being reasoned with. But Himari and Chizuru saw that kiss, heard her words, and his own burly memories. Was it really her out at the lake, were they really engaged he had to know!

"But what if she tries to, what if I'm wrong?" Shinji felt that chill work its way all throughout him. His hands were cold and clammy, his bowels trembled and threatened an accident, but he was committed. They'd be upset with him again, but he had tried to make the last few days as good for them as possible. Wore him out something awful, but he'd be lying if he said he didn't love every moment of it. "Well I better get this started," this was the apartment Asuka said Kuesu was staying in. Penthouse suite, must have a beautiful view from up there.

Pushing the intercom by the elevator, "Hello, uh-this is Shinji Ikari trying to get in contact with…" His voice gave out as he released the button. For all the talk he'd heard about him being from a great slayer family, of how brave and courageous a pilot he was, man did he ever feel scared. And of what, a beautiful and buxom teenager his own age that may or may not attack him on sight. Rubbing his palms against his slacks, "Maybe I should have trained a little more before coming."

Kuesu's dignified yet terse tone cut through Shinji's inner monologue, "Ah, Ikari-kun, I was hoping you'd come by without your entourage. I'll ring you up." The greeting was cordial and polite with the door opening neigh the moment her voice stopped. It wasn't the harsh ding of a low rate bell either, classical tones signaled elevators arrival.

"Well she's at least being polite and seeing me," Shinji stepped into the cab. When the door shut, he was aware of the fragrant smell all about him. This place had to be pricey, more money a month than Misato made in a year. "Wonder how she affords it," he wished he knew more about this girl. Asuka, as usual, was quick to say how great Kuesu was (much like she did for herself) but was very skimpy on the details. He had to bribe Asuka with her favorite breakfast to even get the apartment's address. Unarmed and nervous, Shinji stepped out onto the top floor into the welcome gaze of two armed men. "H-hello, I'm here to see Jinguji-san?" was this a trap?

The first man, very tall, dark skinned, and bald pushed his ear bud in for a moment with the hand not holding his piece towards the intruder. "Yeah, yeah, of course ma'am," the rich and deep voice was oddly comforting. Putting his weapon away, the man gestured to the large door they were guarding. "Madam Jinguji wishes us to welcome you to her temporary home, Mister Ikari," he spoke unfamiliar with the language. Opening the door, he and his compatriot gestured for Shinji to enter, "And know we will be going down stairs the moment this door closes. Madam Jinguji wishes for privacy."

Well that was either a very good or very bad sign, Shinji reckoned. "T-thank you sir," he didn't know the proper etiquette for talking to armed guards. Either they didn't take offence or didn't care as they said nothing as he entered and they closed the door behind him. "Well so far so good," he muttered as some of the fear left him. Either he was as good as dead or his belief in the girl was well founded. Deeper into the suite he headed, full of wonderment at how elegant it all looked. "How can she afford to live here?" he tapped a gold inlaid lamp.

"From the fees I charge for clearing up the demonic taint in this world. With so many attacks happening around the world, some people pay extra to get their request put to the top of the list," Kuesu said calmly. Seated behind a desk, a tea cup in hand, Kuesu sipped at her drink with a cool level expression. "Have a seat, a drink. We have much to discuss Ikari," she picked a small square cookie off a tray, looked at it and put it back down.

Yanking his hand away from the lamp as if he had done something bad, Shinji quickly hustled over to the chair across from the desk. Pouring himself a cup of tea, he had to admit they were nice cups but the one Lizlet gave him was nicer. He'd have to talk to that odd maid and ask why she gave him that cup if it were so important. Maybe he'd drink out of it once, he did have a firm appreciation of tea and the like. Sipping the brew, it was bitter and tasteless which was quite unexpected. "I figured it would be best if we talked without Himari and Chizuru-san here," he set the cup back down with no intention of lifting it again.

Still clad in her French maid Lolita garb, Kuesu was achingly attractive and unique as she had been during their last encounter. Bouncing ever so slightly as she leaned forward. "Glad to hear you can still think for yourself, that you're not just their puppet," she pushed the tray of cookies closer to Shinji. Leaning back, her garb pulling and teasing in interesting directions, "So why don't you go first, Ikari, and tell me why you're here in my home?" she asked.

It was her tone, flat and agitated that kept Shinji on edge. She was upset with him, or didn't like him at the sound of it. Picking up one of the treats, it felt brittle and a little burnt, "I wanted to talk to you without any unnecessary complications. After your um-meeting with Himari-san, you nearly ruined a priceless gift my grandfather gave her. So she's likely not going to be too happy with you. Chizuru was upset that you k-kissed me, so same for her. But I have to think that we can…that we don't have to be enemies." He popped the cookie into his mouth and regretted it, salt and not sugar cookie?! She had left it as a cruel joke.

Pulling the tray back, Kuesu's lips twitched just a little and nodded. "Smart for you not to bring them, and I'm guessing it was Asuka that told you where I was, am I right?" she started pulling things out from her desk. Setting them down, one after another, she put her book, a dagger, her side-arm, and lastly a foot and a half long wooden dowel. "And why shouldn't I kiss you? Your grandfather and my mother did arrange for us to be wed. So while I might not enjoy it, it is my right as your betrothed to do so," she crossed her arms and hoisted her frilly laces of her garment.

"T-they really did get us engaged?" Shinji said incredulously, "My memories from my childhood…they're all foggy." Judging from the irritated eye twitch and the annoyed sound leaving the girl's gob, he had to guess she wasn't happy with what she said. Hoping to lessen her anger, as he did with Asuka, "I don't want to offend you, Jinguji-san, I wish I did remember things, I really do. But Himari-san said the amulet my grandparents gave me was so powerful that it muddled with me."

Lifting the dagger up, twirling the point on her index finger and the pummel on her palm, Kuesu hissed out as she exhaled. "So it is as Asuka said," she scowled, "but they are coming back aren't they? You said when we last saw one another that you thought…" She shook her head and the luxurious hair flurried about. "Our betters arrangement for us aside, why do you think we can ever be anything but enemies to those creatures that stalk us? Demons don't feel as we do, they just target those weaker than them and hurt or worse," she gripped the handle of the blade tightly.

Yeah, best not to think about being engaged to this girl when he was in love with others, not the best thoughts. "Because they're not all evil! Some yes…some are bad," the few that attacked and nearly killed him were rare. Himari could be scary when she lost herself in battle, which was why was here. He had to prevent her from fighting, from her from losing herself completely. "I won't deny that some need to be punished, but they don't need to be killed. We should talk to them first, I have to think we can be friends if we try! Himari, Chizuru and even Shizuka and Rei-san are all good people! They wouldn't hurt…" but Himari had slashed him and would have killed him, he paused and showed weakness. But it wasn't her fault!

"They're playing with you is all! You're a fool to think of anything else," Kuesu got up quickly sending her chair crashing back to the ground. Lifting up her book, she eyed the dagger for a moment. "You'll only get hurt with that mentality. Where is the…what happened to the Shinji Ikari I remember!" she hurled the dagger at the seated boy's head. In a flurry of motion, as Shinji fell back dodging the attack, she grabbed her sidearm and sent the dowel rolling towards Shinji. "If they're so damn friendly, why has every one I've met tried to kill me? Why have they joked about what they'd do to me before they did?" she fired off several rounds through her desk destroying it.

Rolling away from the chair, wood pulp and splinters filling the air, Shinji grabbed the dowel in his hand. Well this escalated quickly, and he had no answer for her. Most of the demons he knew were friendly, yet the males had seemed overly anxious to get a hold on his female friends. "Jinguji-san stop this! We can talk this out! Tell me what you remember about me…about our past," what did she mean? What about him changed since he had known her from his grandparents? Getting to his feet, he tried to remember his training. The Light Ferry…he needed it now.

Rushing down the desk's remains, Kuesu continued to blast away sending devastation and ruin with ever shell. "Stop? Will they stop when they have you cornered you fool? I'm not doing this for you! I'm doing this for myself! I don't want to see the once proud Ikari name destroyed and ruined. Brought down by somebody to gullible to see reality! We're at war, and only we can stop them!" she snarled. Her aim off or leading, she sent expensive decorations to ruin all around them.

Crawling behind a lush leather couch, Shinji felt traces of magic in every thundering blast that pushed him forward. Magic, she infused her rounds with magic and she was getting damn close to hitting him every time. "Please…I need to get this to work. I can do it! Himari believes in me, Chizuru too…they all do," Shinji stood up from behind the tattered remains of the sofa. "Please just talk to me, this isn't the way to be. I have faith in you…Asuka-san isn't the type to be friends with somebody blinded by rage," he held the dowel before him like a sword and focused as he trained.

"What would I say to the one besmirching the Ikari name with talk of befriending our enemies? Cowing down to pretty faces and willing bodies?" Kuesu stood before the enormous window. The skyline was twinkling with night lights and would have been beautiful to watch had the situation been nicer. "A weak slayer that isn't worth the history and glamor that follows his name!" she lined up her shot and fired.

I NEED YOU NOW! Shinji clenched the dowel and closed his eyes and summoned all his will. The golden light of the Light Ferry exploded outward with physical force. The round was obliterated, what Kuesu hadn't destroyed herself with her attacks was torn to tatters, as for the woman herself…well the glass behind her was blown out and she flung out of it. "NO!" Shinji yelped dropping the dowel and rushing, diving towards the window. "I didn't mean…I didn't want…" he couldn't have…no…she was flung out the window!

With all the glass blown outward he didn't fall on any when he crumpled to his knees a good three feet from the window. "I…I'm sorry Jinguji-san…I only wanted to talk…I wanted to know you better…to know what I forgot," he got up only to fall back down again. He had never ki…lled before, and he hadn't meant to now. Sitting on but staring at the window as the cold wind of high altitude blew in, he felt tears streaming down his face.

Then Kuesu sat behind him, back to back. "It was you, you know…that got me through all the pain. Memories of our time at the lake, our…first kiss. Asuka was a great friend, but it was your words that got me through the harshness of my early training and life. Before…you said we'd fight them together, that you and I would be a team. Just us, together, we would be together forever. But when I heard…heard you lost your powers…your memory…I…I couldn't stop myself. I love you stupid, I always have," she gushed. "Like my flying trick?" she teased as an afterthought.

He twirled about to face the girl that had the audacity to show up as if nothing had happened. The tears dried instantly as he stared at her back. That hair…if it were black…it was familiar, memories came pouring back into his mind. Happier times, better times, it was just Himari and him back then with his grandparents. But then this girl showed up, grandpa told him to play with her, not like he had a choice. The girl forced it on him, dragging him off every which way.

"I-I remember," Shinji gasped out and fell backward holding himself up by his elbows. "You were with me at grandpa's before they died. W-we played and…I-I was actually liking the idea of being special like grandpa said," he could see those months leading up to his grandparents death clearly now. A lot was still dark, but he remembered the black haired girl with the crescent moon. "You…we made a promise at the lake! That we wouldn't…wouldn't get married because they told us to but because we…" wanted to. She was the first real friend he had, well human friend. With Himari only in cat form it was different.

Rolling around and crawling towards Shinji, Kuesu's face was drastically opposed to what it was before. Her eyes sparkled and danced, a rosy smile brightened her face in ways Shinji had never seen before. "You DO remember! D-do you remember at the lake when we…" she was hovering over him now, leaning up against him. One hand supporting herself and the other on Shinji's chest, she lowered herself and pressed her ample features against him. "All this time, I hoped, I knew you'd remember! And now…now…Maybe some demons aren't bad, that cat has saved you, but the others the evil ones. You and I could," she was inching her lips closer to the prone Shinji eyes going closed.

Ok this was NOT what he had expected in any way shape or form! Trying to crawl out from under her, Shinji found himself unable, he was captivated. Too many emotions were surging through him, conflicting and warring. "J-Jinguji-san maybe we shouldn't," she put a finger to his lips silencing him. Those memories, it was Kuesu and his grandfather DID tell him they were engaged. Merging two of clans together, the Ikari with their eastern mastery and the Jinguji with their western magic. But as children all they saw was another child in the same situation as the other. Kuesu was just as strong willed as now, but he wasn't beaten down and crushed by loneliness and neglect yet. They, she kissed him and they promised. Maybe, maybe it wasn't such a bad…he started leaning in. But then nothing?

"And that doth be enough for you Miss Tsundere. The cookies had been a trifle much," Himari announced as she pulled the moony eyed Kuesu off Shinji. Holding the girl by the collar, Himari gave her a little shake to wake the girl out of her daze. Turning to Shinji, "I knew ye had some plans, your fib was so thin I couldn't help but let it go." Himari didn't appear angry, no more frustrated than anything. "Proud of your summoning of the Light Ferry, but could not you have found some way aside coming to the other woman?" the cat rubbed her brow exasperated.

As Himari and Kuesu started arguing over being interrupted when things were getting good. Shinji just laid their and fell to his back. Adrenaline flooded out of his body leaving him spent and tired. He should have known Himari followed him, he was a terrible liar. It was a trap, but not of Kuesu's but Himari's. Had things gone to much further she'd have stepped in and stopped Kuesu from hurting him. But now, now Shinji knew the truth. He had made a promise of his own to this girl, a promise to wed her which was legally bound by his grandfather and her mother. Chizuru was going to be very-very upset. "Think I will have that cup of tea when I get home," he moaned as the two girls continued to argue.

X-X

Notes

A lot happened this chapter and moving along at a nice speed. Going to want to add a bit more Kanokon elements as its been very eva/Himari heavy lately. Aside from that I feel its moving good with nice action/drama/spicy elements. Hard to keep the stories and elements balanced, hope you think I'm managing.

Later

Mercaba