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

17. Chapter 17

Standard Disclaimer

Well a stray rock took out my windshield so that was a bummer and 275 bucks gone. But I can afford it I suppose, still would rather waste on good things. Weather is warming up allowing more pool time which is always a plus. But work is odd with a damn JNDI problem I can't fix atm, bugger local v remote callings!

X-X

Friend of my Enemy

Chapter – 17

"Nothing to be afraid of, nothing at all," Chizuru wasn't quite sure what she was trying to reassure herself of. More than enough things had been playing on her mind, but they only troubled her when she was as she was now, alone. In her bathroom prepping for yet another boring day of school, the minx dabbed some makeup to cover the circles under her eyes. Sleepless night and not for a good reason. Her last date with Shinji was three days ago, a full week after that damn guardian had come. Last night he was off with Shizuka to celebrate her recovery. Oh Chizuru hoped the Mizuchi hadn't changed from looking to touching. Applying a little pink lipstick, flavored strawberry, "All I need is another rival."

Rivals everywhere for her darling Shin-chan, and they were stepping up their games while she rested on her laurels. Damn maid was nearly her cup size and flirtatious as hell. Chizuru was glad that Shinji either ignored the open offers of coitus or didn't grasp them. But what could she do to stop Lizlet? Break the cup and kill her would only have Shinji hate her. Tell Shinji to break it off would work, but then they'd lose a valued asset. If Himari hadn't commented on more demons being sited in the city and the existence of 'the fiancé' Chizuru might have. Shinji had three lovers already, he would be happy with that.

A knock on the door broke Chizuru out of her mental fugue. "Chizuru-sama you have been occupying the restroom for an hour. May I begin my morning cleaning?" Rei's docile voice wafted through the door. Such progress had been made in the wolf-girl in both social practices and fighting prowess. Morning training with Himari must have ended or Rei wouldn't have been so anxious to enter the shower.

Dropping her makeup away, not good to show her weaknesses, Chizuru opened the door with a flourish. Wrapping her arms around her darling pupil, "And how are you doing this morning? Did you knock Black Cat on her ass yet?" Oh how Chizuru couldn't wait for that day, when the damn cat was knocked down a peg that wasn't life threatening. Letting the little furnace go, damn Rei was nearly as warm as Shinji was, Chizuru let the girl enter. Sniffing the telling odor of sweat, "Yeah I guess you do reek pretty bad. Girl should only smell like that after some passionate love making." Oh she wanted that right now.

Shaking her head slowly, Rei couldn't make eye contact with her matron. "I have yet to overcome Noihara-san's speed, though I came close today," Rei flexed her fist and her ears and tail burst out. Disrobing while Chizuru kept the door open, Rei still had a few issues to work out. After she took off the sports bra she trained in, Rei's face did pinken a little, "Shinji-kun did watch us practice though. I have brought over the breakfast he created for us. Judging from Shizuka-san's attachment to him, I would wager it was as we feared."

"Well you'll just have to remind him which pale beauty owns more of him. Don't let that tricky snake steal your love-love time," Chizuru tried to console her protégée. Shutting the door after Rei stepped into the bath, the fox grabbed her waiting plate and returned to her room. Damn it! He would forget about her soon, move on to bigger and better things! Hell they were coming after Shinji now in droves, and what did Chizuru really have to offer him? Picking at her food as she flopped on her bed, unmade since the last time Shinji made it for her, she pouted. "He loves me, I know…but in face of so many others it will fade," she rolled onto her back.

What did she have that those others didn't? Her figure was top notch, but Shinji didn't love her for her body. Personality wise she was fun to be around, well when Shinji was with her, others knew her to be crash, lazy, boorish, and selfish. They could merge together to form an unbeatable pair…but she was afraid to do that. So what did she really have to keep Shinji with her over those usurers? Not much other than stealing him first. If she didn't do something she'd lose him. Lose that charming man that made her laugh, her heart melt, and her nethers tingle. Love wasn't even an equitable word for how she felt about him now…she needed him.

After she finished her meal, a loud crash from the bathroom as Tayura forgot to knock again got her to sit up. "Guess Rei-chan is finally learning to not let other boys get free looks," she tittered. By the sounds of it, Tayura had been knocked into the couch. Locking her door though, no good for him to come seeking big-sis to kiss and make it better, Chizuru stood before her mirror. "Nothing to be afraid of, they're normal…under control," she pleaded.

Willing her own ears and tail out, her hair capturing the ambient light of the room and glowing gold, Chizuru was not smiling. Nobody needed to know her self doubts and worries, they'd only worry. With the guardians, the bitches that attacked Shizuka, Jinguji, and the increase in demons they had enough to worry about. She'd not burden Shinji with this. Closing her eyes Chizuru felt her other tails fighting to come out. Eight of her tails she let out spiritually, their energy filling her with power and confidence. But then the ninth, that black corrupt bastard. It was still there, mocking her, telling her to do bad things. Kill Himari in her sleep, blame Jinguji for it, drop the cup, seal Rei's powers, and steal what was rightfully hers! Power, love, wealth, EVERYTHING! The tail promised it all if only she'd submit.

"It might do bad things to Shin-baby if I merge with him. It was never this bad before," Chizuru reverted to her normal state. She couldn't risk it! What if that taint sullied him, she'd never forgive herself! But it was a part of her, a part she couldn't control. "Maybe Tamamo can help," but she'd have to admit her failing. The one thing Shinji and she had that was special and unique, the one thing that couldn't be stolen from her…was threatening her now. Dabbing her neck with a stray shirt, she'd need to clean before she let Shinji in, she found her little test left her drenched.

Grabbing her school books, a blasted group project required her to go into school early. No walking with Shinji and Himari today, day already seemed a bit dimmer due to that. Unlocking her door, she opened it and nearly walked into Tayura who was standing there. Yelping in shock she swung her bag and caught the boy in the side of the head. "Tayura! Don't do that! How many times have I told you about stalking outside my door? What if Shin-chan was over for a lil early morning Chizuru?" it was on her mind.

A worried expression threatened to peek out from him, but the brother kept to remain neutral. "I felt something strange in your room for a second. Is something wrong?" he leaned to peek in. Each attempt to spy was counted with Chizuru moving to block making him give up. Getting off the ground and rubbing his new bruise, "I take it's nothing I need to worry about."

He was an idiot, but a smart idiot Chizuru batted his head once. "Nothing you need to worry about at all. Just checking on my new project for Shinji is all. Can't keep making him scarves. Been thinking of getting a job at the little sprites café so I can buy him something," Chizuru strode past her brother towards the door. "I left the plate on my bed, clean it up for me," she had to be cruel to be kind. Maybe she'd talk to that girl he was interested in, put in the good word. Kicking her shoes on, her mask of happiness was already crumbling, blast it. She had to be happy, or at least look it. Opening the door, "What if Shin-chan saw…me?"

Standing right before her, rocking on the balls of his feet, Shinji's expression shifted to worried neigh instantly. "Chizuru-san, what's wrong?" he took a step back so she could exit. "I-I remember you saying you had to go in early today so I thought I'd go with you. We haven't had a lot of time for just each other lately, and I want to change that. Its not fair…that I don't spend more time with you," he took her hand in his and kissed it.

Those lips of his sent a spark from her arm, down her spine, and right to her honey pot. Oh damn he knew her buttons and could play her like a piano, and she loved him more each time he did. "How do you always know what I'm thinking honey," she wrapped his arm around him and took the lead. Picking at his current adornment, "Isn't it a bit warm for a scarf let alone two?" But he wore the two she made for him in tandem. Didn't hurt that the first was damaged by Kuesu and was only a portion of its old size. The two were wrapped into a coil.

"Never to warm for this, you made if for me so I'm going to wear them," Shinji twirled the free end of the gift. Walking hand I hand with Chizuru down the mostly vacant roads towards school, the couple chatted. They meandered over topics like dancers, hitting what one wanted to talk about then leaping to another. Complementing one another, that's what Shinji and Chizuru did for one another. Standing outside the gates of the school though, Shinji stopped and peeked around. When the trio of boys, gawking at Chizuru all the while, entered leaving them alone he stepped close. "Going to tell me what is bothering you this morning, Love?" he expertly pushed her weak points.

Curse him for knowing her so well, Chizuru was aflame with desire yet fear. He didn't call her that often, Shinji kept his emotions close to his chest, but she never heard him call anybody else 'Love'. Pressing her forehead to his, her arms wrapped around the small of his back she held him close. Smelling that mellow country sent that initially set her heart off, "Just worried is all. Tamamo is learning more about those nasty guardians you have to fight. I hate seeing you go off into battle where the Cat or I can't follow." She'd not mention the other girls, right now they didn't exist, only they did.

"If I didn't have to I wouldn't, Chizuru-san," Shinji swayed with her. Matching her motions, he rested his arms above her supple rump. "But it's the same for me. Whatever attacked Shizuka-san was the same girl that talked to Misato-san outside our apartment. I can't help you with that. If we fight you take control as I can't use those damn powers of mine on demand. Seeing her hurt like that…remembering you and that lizard…" he closed his eyes and shuddered.

Nobody was around, Chizuru licked her lips and her breath quickened. Just for a moment, she'd merge with him to bask in that sensation of love they shared. It was intoxication soothing. If she was careful he'd never realize her tainted tail existed. And right now they could both use the rush. He had his fears just as she had hers, and they could ease one another. A moment of doubt and she sampled her favorite dish in the world, Shinji's lips and whatever he ate for breakfast. Mouth parted instantly allowing on another access, she murmured into his mouth and let him steal that fear away from her. He wouldn't leave her, right now she believed that fully. Once she was parted and he was alone with those others the fear would come back, but for now…now…

She broke the kiss quickly and abruptly leaving Shinji stunned and jarred. "I-I have to go now Shin-chan. C-class work and all," Chizuru took off running. He was calling out to her, asking her to stop and what he did wrong, but she ran. Once she was in her classroom, damn classmates weren't there yet, she pressed herself against the door and panted hard. Tears started streaking down her face as she tried to catch her breath but it was impossible, no matter how deep a breath she took it never helped. Fucked if she wasn't hyperventilating!

"I can't merge with him…our hearts aren't one," Chizuru whimpered and fell to her knees. Oh she could feel his soul wrapping around hers, open and inviting her to join him. But she wouldn't allow it herself, she had shut him out, blocked him. But why!? She wanted it damn it! Wanted to remind herself that he cared, but she was terrified of what she'd see inside him. Himari's dedication, Rei's overwhelming devotion, the lusting of Lizlet, or hell maybe even that fucking Jinguji girl in her youth and her promise to marry him. Collecting herself, dabbing the streaking makeup with a napkin she had in her pocket, "I…I caused this. And I hurt him by running."

The door opened ten minutes later and her partners for the day came in to see her looking her normal self. "Oh Minamoto-kun, we didn't actually expect you to be here! Great we can really make some progress then," the girl whose name Chizuru never bothered to learn gushed.

The quartet started their little project, Japanese history project on the tenants of the samurai. Chizuru hardly helped, but when she did it was insight into the matter that the others didn't think. Damn boys just stared at her, thinking her a bimbo with no real input, how most guys thought the attractive girls were. Shinji didn't think of her as just breasts, thighs, and ass…and the note he left in her shoebox was proof. He didn't question what she did or why, he trusted her. The note was simple. A date set for the following day, just them if she wanted. Of if Chizuru wanted others it was up to her to invite as he wanted to spoil her.

Folded carefully in her pocket, Chizuru didn't listen to any teachers that day, she just stewed in her funk. Something, she had to do something to get over this fear of hers or she would lose what she wanted. Maybe talking to Shinji about it would be best, he'd not judge her or leave her for it. Honesty was best, and he had always been honest with her, even when it was adding new girls into their life. And if he could do that, Chizuru could ask for a little understanding from him.

X-X

No more putting it off, no more hiding from the woman, Misato had to let that nasty UN officer have her meeting with Shinji today. How to tell him though, she wondered. Picking at her breakfast, Shinji nestled between Shizuka and Himari, Misato gazed at the boy between bites. Thankfully Asuka was in the bath and not ranting at how those 'damn demons were all over him'. At least she got to tell him he didn't have to go to school today, that was a boon. Right? Hopefully she'd not run into Kaji though, she really didn't want to deal with that.

"Shinji-sama mayhap on the following Sunday, if ye be available, would ye be willing to go on a walk with me?" Himari leaned heavily on Shinji's shoulder. Practically atop the lad, her hair rolled over his shoulder, oh yeah she wasn't playing fair. Scooping his chopsticks from his prone hands, she fed him a morsel off her own plate. Sultry, leaning in close to his ear she minx eyed Misato for a moment as if to apologize, "We doth not have had much time between ourselves of late."

Bashfully submitting to Himari's assault, Shinji squirmed and wiggled in his seat. "S-sure Himari-san I'd love to. Was thinking of asking myself actually. Things have been complicated lately," Shinji took another offered bite. Jumping up in his seat, nearly knocking Himari off him, Shinji turned to Shizuka but kept his mouth shut. "M-Misato-san you're awfully quiet this morning and you hardly touched your beer. Is something wrong?" ever the attentive male.

Now what was going on under the table, Misato wasn't sure she wanted to know. The deathly pale girl was playing with something, and by the look on Himari's face it wasn't fully appreciated. Oh but it looked like Shinji was about to pop, maybe she could join in on the teasing. Show those little girls how a real woman made a man panic. "Well Shinji-kun, I've good news and bad news for you," that got all three 'teens' attention. Anything involving one of them instantly brought the others attention, would they do that for her?

"Slayer-kun you are agitated, is something wrong?" Shizuka's tongue waggled out to lash up food. Unlike Himari, the Mizuchi was not leaning against Shinji but she wasn't leaving him alone mentally. In what almost passed for contentment Shizuka sighed and closed her eyes while leaning against her chair. "I have missed the mayhem of the morn here. Neko-hime prancing about as if she owned Slayer-kun, Fledgling-kun upset and panicked, and yet Beer-kun will spoil it," Shinji jumped again and went even redder.

Not feeling much like finishing her beer this morning, Misato fancied the juice Shinji oft provided that she ignored. Rather than prolong the surprise, "No school for you today, Shinji-kun. You've got to meet with a UN agent. They've been wanting to get there mitts on you for a while now, but I've pushed them off. Sadly I can't any longer, but I will be with you during the meeting." Misato did not like the looks she was getting. Wasn't her fault! She was doing her best, and she couldn't work miracles. One thing she knew though, she would not let that bitch get her claws into Shinji without a fight.

Sharing a knowing look with Himari, Shinji spoke to her with his eyes and for a change got the girl to back down without a fight. "W-why do you think they want to talk to me, Misato-san?" he questioned. In a rare showing of physical support, Shinji caressed Himari's cheek and nodded. This was another way of Shinji paying for his request for his guardian to relent. Gathering up the empty plates, all save Misato's was now devoid of food, the clatter helped fill the air. Worry ebbing in, "I'm not in trouble am I?"

"You are in trouble, Slayer-kun. Your efforts the other day have caused me to become with child," Shizuka took Shinji's hand. The deadpan delivery wasn't what got a rise out of the group, it was how she placed it on her belly and actually blushed. Of course she 'hu-hu-hu'd' in that eerie monotone laugh of hers, but she actually rubbed her stomach with his hand before licking his face. What might be considered a kiss, Shizuka pressed her folded tongue against Shinji's lips, "I now know why you score more than the others. Slayer-kun is a new breed of hunter, one that converts with his prowess."

Getting up fast, knocking her chair over, Himari had heard enough. "Tempting serpent stop thy attempts at cuckolding at once! We agree that ye should be allowed to…become one with Master, but this be to much! In the morn, insinuating ye be with child, k-kissing him so flippantly! I reclaim my blade today and ye shall be its first target if ye continue!" Himari's fangs were out. Her tail and ears were darting from side to side, oh yes Himari was NOT happy with Shizuka's actions. "The roof now, I doth need to put you back in your position beneath me!" Himari yanked Shizuka out of her seat.

"I thought my position was under Slayer-kun, or behind him," Shizuka couldn't help herself in saying. Drug out of the apartment by her 'collar', Shizuka waved at the two humans as the fuming Himari had her way.

Scratching his cheek, Shinji took plates to the sink and set them in. "Sorry about them Misato-san. Things are complicated with us right now," Shinji didn't sound too well rested. Rejoining Misato at the table, the lad looked at his cup of tea fondly for a moment. It was an elaborate and fancy looking cup that Shinji had started using over the last few days. He had made Misato promise to be extra careful with it, swearing he'd dump all her beer if she ever joked with it. Sipping slowly from the cup, he set it down gingerly. "So, about this meeting, am I in trouble?" his eye fidgeted to the left and towards his room.

Thinking she caught sight of something yellow, Misato quickly turned to find the hallway empty. Damn trick of the morning light. "They just want to talk to you about your actions at the volcano. You've already been punished so you've nothing to worry about," she reached out across the table. Now this was what she liked her mornings to be, just Shinji and her. It was taking liberties with her ward, but at times Misato liked feeling special too. Feeling as if she meant something to somebody, and Shinji made her feel that way. Her hand hung open for a moment before he realized it was there and then he took it. "Getting better with contact it seems," she had to tease.

Squirming a little under her gaze, Shinji just gave the hand a squeeze. It wasn't a romantic gesture, it was friendly and open. "I guess I am a little. Still not really comfortable with it, but it helps calm my nerves," Shinji admitted. When the bathroom door opened though, he removed it less he cause Asuka to rant again. "Can't help but be worried about this though. I've never been questioned by the UN before. W-will I be done by this afternoon though, I have plans?" Shinji waved at Asuka.

"You will be, I'll see to that," Misato flexed her bicep and squeezed it with her free hand. Getting up, it was time for her own shower, Misato tried to forget how her body tingled. Damn it had been a long time since she felt the touch of a man, the feeling of being loved. "You leave my any warm water, Asuka, or am I going to have to ask Chizuru to come over and heat some up for me?" she gave the German a toothy grin.

Towel around her shoulders to keep her uniform dry, Asuka just took up Misato's seat across from Shinji. "I left you some. Don't want my day ruined by that tramp coming over so early. If anything I could warm it up. If we had Kuesu live here with us she could do some real nice tricks," she grabbed one of the pieced of toast left. Taking a monster bite, crumbs falling and dirtying the table, Asuka flicked Shinji's forehead lightly. "Stare any harder at me and I'll tell your fiancé you're trying to cheat on her with her best friend," Asuka sounded a little too happy.

Leave those two to their typical morning routine, Misato fled the room. It was the same with those two, more siblings than comrades in arms. But Asuka likely was suffering the same way as she was, just to a lesser degree. Oh they tried to keep it quiet, to keep it private, but Asuka was right about something. Japanese walls were thin, and did little to mask the sounds coming from Shinji's room. Chizuru had her wards, but Himari and the others didn't. That meant they got to hear masked pants, whimpers, and moans. Shinji could play those girls like his cello, expertly and loudly.

Disrobing and getting into the shower, the faint conversation of Asuka and Shinji heard through the door, Misato hated herself. Oh how she teased Shinji about being an adult and with her body, and here she was practically throbbing. Maybe she should just give Kaji a call, let nature take its course. After he had finished she'd hate herself a little, but it would drive away that damn itch! Asuka had brought up school and Shinji admitted to not going when Misato turned the shower on. Ever thankful for the shower rod, Misato waved it over herself before turning up the setting to message. One hand held the wand, the other sank two fingers in.

Rubbing her nub and shallow dips in, Misato soon found herself weak in the knees. But the problem was she had no mental fodder. Memories of Kaji were sullied with bad emotion and confusion that killed her hopes at release, other men at work were pigs, and the last adult film she watched had been so long ago she could hardly remember. "Just this…just this once," Misato promised it would only be this once. Recalling Shinji's proud gait as he walked out of the shower those few weeks ago, how self-assure and confident he looked. Strange how he appeared so masculine only in private, when he thought nobody was looking. That got the fire going, she set the rod back up and worked herself with both hands. One tweaked and fondled her breasts alternately while the other worked at a fevered pitch in her honey pot.

She had to cover her mouth in the end to keep herself from moaning out the name of the man that got her off. "I feel sick," she shambled out of the shower. Drying off quick, her body still sensitive and tender, she got dressed in her formal fatigues. It had been self-generated but thinking of her ward had caused one of the most powerful climaxes she could remember. Oh yes she was sick. But there was so much emotion tied to that lad now. Knowing what he did to those other girls, the growing emotions she had for him, but it was a fools errand. He had young beautiful women, he didn't need a drunk hag with no ability to care for herself. Yeah, she'd talk to Kaji. Maybe he could be trained to be half the caring man Shinji was.

Swallowing the bitter pill of reality, Misato exited the bathroom to find Shinji and Shizuka at the table. The Mizuchi looked much worse for wear, but was listing against Shinji. "So I take it your cat has finished playing with the snake, oh and your still wearing that scarf?" Misato couldn't look at him. What would Shinji think of her if he knew, he'd be disgusted. Fantasizing about her damn ward, she needed to meet better caliber men. Hearing his chair grind against the ground, "You ready to go Shinji-kun?" Gone was some of her typical humor and good mood in talking to him.

"Shin-sama are you ready for your tea-bath!" a sultry sing-song voice called out from his room. The door opened and a toned and bare leg stuck out in a high arch followed by a scantily clad blond. Yelping and falling daintily on her rump, legs spread eagle, the telling signs of arousal evident in a discoloration of the fabric, "You're not…hello Katsuragi-sama, how may I be of service to you? Any female friend of Shinji-sama is a friend of mine." The girl bowed deeply, head touching the ground.

Rushing past Misato, a jacket in his hands, Shinji wrapped the strange girl in it and helped her up. "Lizlet-san, what did I tell you about that? You have to talk to Himari-san or Chizuru-san about…about doing stuff like this," Shinji panicked. Giving Misato a pleading look, "Give me a moment to talk to her. I'll explain everything on the way to Nerv." He shut the door and could be heard giving a very hushed bit of orders.

"Slayer-kun saved Tea-hime from being slain by Neko-hime, she then pledged herself to him. She's been trying nearly every day to get him to accept her desire to service him. As such he has always declined," Shizuka told Misato bluntly.

Of course he did, and without a doubt so would this Lizlet. Just another page in the life of Shinji Ikari mega-playboy. Capable of making thirty something women moist and bitter. If she was only a little younger…NO! No, she would not complicate his life further, Shinji had enough to deal with. Misato was going to be the 'older cooler sister' and help him, not add to his lady troubles. After a full five minutes of Shizuka telling the account, Shinji emerged without the blond and tried to collapse in on himself. "Your snake told me about it, Shin-chan. No worries, just be more careful when saving tea cups," she wrapped an arm around his neck and gave him a noogie. She accidentally rubbed his head against her sensitive bust.

"Sorry about that, Misato-san. I wasn't trying to hide her or anything. I just didn't know how to tell you about her," Shinji confessed. The pair headed off to Nerv together leaving the snake and tea-sprite to tend to the apartment. Several times during the ride, Shinji tried to start conversation, another big change for the lad, but Misato remained tightlipped. As they pulled into Misato's reserved spot, Shinji's mood was full of holes, "Are-are you upset with me Misato-san?"

Only with herself, she was only upset with herself. "No, just amazed that my lil Shinji-kun is becoming quite the heart throb. Never thought you'd be such a player when you moved in," Misato ruffled his hair before exiting the car. But he wasn't a player, Kaji was a player. Shinji honestly cared about those women, he didn't see them as a body or a conquest. And while he was trying to improve himself, she stewed in her funk and upset him. "Now let's see this Mehuri woman off so we don't have to deal with her anymore alright?" she took his hand to help calm him and herself.

Brightening up neigh instantly, Shinji's fingers worked their way tightly around Misato's. He was sweating, nearly trembling as they approached the door to the UN appointed meeting room. Guards, both Nerv and UN stood outside it just in case. "M-Misato-san. You heard me talking to Himari-san about Sunday and my being upset with not spending time with her. I…um…Saturday would you like to do something? We haven't had a chance to just talk, you and I…and I miss that. When I first moved in…and when it was just Himari…" he was deliciously bashful.

Before Misato could respond though, a rogue element rushed up to them and broke them apart. "Oh Katsuragi! Glad I could run into you before you go in there," Kaji held Misato's hand that moments ago held Shinji's. As he called out to her it caused the two to split to face the sudden intrusion and the man capitalized on it. "Seems this Meruhi-kun is part of a real flaky department. Something to do with the unknown and unexplained. She was sought after by the UN while on duty in England. So keep that in mind, oh and I've got tickets to a wine tasting event on Saturday if your game," he flashed Shinji a grin and patted his shoulder.

Damn him, DAMN Kaji for this! Shinji finally got the gumption to ask her for something, Shinji NEVER asked for anything. But today of all days goes and asks to do something, and now she had to crush his intentions. If she didn't destroy it now, Misato knew her emotions would only grow. Hell those timid eyes he had while asking melted her heart. "Sure Kaji, consider it a date. Sorry Shinji-kun, those type of things are rare," she tried not to see the hurt look on his face.

"I understand Misato-san. It would be more fun for you to hang out with Kaji-san anyway," Shinji took it in stride as he did all things. Opening the door to the meeting room, the pungent smell of incense wafted out, and the sight of Meruhi sitting under the long light in the room was seen. She was in a svelte business suit, luxurious black hair done up in a bun, looking quite the catch. "Well let's get this finished," he walked in.

As Misato headed to enter the door, the UN guard stopped her. "Sorry Katsuragi-san. Your request stated that you would be here, not necessarily participating in the meeting. If you want we have the viewing chambers next door," the large man said in a no-nonsense tone.

"Wait what?" Misato looked into the room and found Meruhi smirking at her. She saw Shinji turn back at her, eyes full of fear and almost betrayal, and then the door slammed shut and locked mechanically. "You open that door right this fucking instant or I'll…I'll…Kaji let go of me. I promised him I'd be in there with him not watching," Misato bucked against Kaji as he led her to the viewing room. He shushed her and warned her that it was necessary.

Then for the next three hours Misato watched, and her hatred grew for that damn cunt of a woman. Questioning Shinji why he risked his life for Asuka, his relationship to Chizuru and Himari in none glowing terms. The woman asked personal questions, far beyond the simple teasing Misato did. At points almost coming across as seductive. She picked Shinji apart like a pro, leading questions, pulling out pictures taken by Section-2, and never giving him a moment of rest. Misato was stunned when the woman brought up his slayer heritage and hinting to knowing of the existence of demons.

"Well Ikari-chan, I have to admit you are a lot more interesting than I thought. It does upset me that you cohort with the likes of Minamoto, but your grandparents are to blame for you condition. But I do think I can forgive you. But you do require additional punishment for your transgressions. And I'll see to it that they are taken care of by months end. You will wed my daughter, Kuesu, and put aside those petty feelings. You owe your lineage more than being a puppet," Meruhi stood up after she concluded. Winking at Shinji, she waved at the window and the door unlocked.

Only Kaji holding her back kept Misato from rushing after that slut to curb stomp her. Never had Misato been so angry as she was now. But a quick view back in the room, seeing Shinji crumpled and broken. His shoulders hung limply, hid body a puppet with its strings cut, Shinji was unresponsive. "Oh I'll get her…I'll get her good," Misato just didn't know how.

X-X

His shirt stuck to him like a second skin, he felt light headed and faint yet Kensuke pushed on. A crowd was watching them, a lot of girls were watching. While the geek never had much hope for scoring himself a girl, things were on the up-tick for him it seemed. The basketball entered his grip, the trio of defenders rushed him, finding an opening he took it and passed right before the collided with him. As he fell to the ground with Touji on top of him, the cheer from the bystanders was proof that his sacrifice hadn't been in vein. Kuesu had scored a basket.

"You slick little weasel," Touji spat out as he rolled off Kensuke and got back to his feet. Dusting his hands off, the rocks and pebbles falling made tiny clicks on the ground. Pulling Kensuke back up, Touji leaned over to catch his breath. The sun was blazing and the temperature high. Touji's teammates weren't looking much better than Kensuke and himself. Catching the pass from Kuesu and heading to the top of the three-point line, Touji slapped the ball. "You two, how the hell aren't you sweating like the rest of us?" he ran a slick hand over the faux leather.

Kensuke had to admit that Asuka and Kuesu were quite unnatural considering the day and what they were doing. "Oh stop complaining, and check the ball. Four more points and we win," Kensuke loved the sound of that. A win, him a winner in a game of basketball against Touji! It wasn't a 'true' victory as it wasn't one-on-one, but the smaller boy would take anything he could. So when Kuesu and Asuka needed a third for their little challenge he accepted. Getting into a defensive stance in front of Himari, "Still shocked they wanted to play today, it's in the nineties."

While Himari was dribbling and quite the mess, she was a level or two higher closer to the females on Kensuke's team. "Some lower quality women just have to posture. To make themselves feel superior or beyond their means. Yon maid be one of those types as her friend is confused. A game of chance has never been one to move mountains nor hearts," she cast a glare at Kuesu. Clad in a gym uniform, as were the rest of the players save Kuesu, it played a seductive game on the boys' minds. Psychological warfare was never so pretty.

Knowing more than he ever let on, Kensuke was keen somewhat on what Himari meant. "You know Kuesu's fiancé or something, Noihara-san?" Kensuke moved to block Touji's path to the girl. Himari was greased lightning though when she wanted to be, likely why they had him guard her. Nobody was going to be fast enough to stop her, so put the slowest one and consolidate on feasible targets. As the ball went from Touji to Tayura, Kensuke stood up as it seemed Himari wasn't part of this play. Waving at the gray haired beauty, "You steal her old boyfriend of fiancé before you teamed up with Shinji?"

"Aida pay attention to the game not that old timed bodyguard," Asuka shouted. Jumping up to block the shot Tayura made, the sporty girl knocked the ball down and towards the geek. Covering Touji's attempt to get in, Asuka nodded to Kuesu. "And as for this little game and her little quip, its more she's been trying to steal things," Asuka's arms went out wide as she eyed Touji and kept him in place.

Rushing for the ball, Kensuke got his hands on it again, only to find Himari appear right before him as if she had always been there. Damn she was quick, almost like teleportation. Asuka was covered now, Kuesu had stopped and to yell at the audience again. He'd have to take a shot himself, maybe then he'd get more of the cheers for himself! "I got this, though your fight with that girl…I'll have to back her," Kensuke winked at Himari hoping to put her off guard. Jumping as high as he could he took his chance.

Himari plucked it out of the air, raced past Kensuke and took hers before he could even notice. It went in, now they only needed five to win, not good. Tayura handed the ball over to Asuka, "Chizuru will you please stop talking about your date tonight please? I don't think anybody wants to hear about it except for you!" The ever doting younger brother was just as upset by Chizuru's flagrant talk about her plans for her 'beloved Shinji'. Rubbing his side, "Oh get that smug look off your face Kensuke. You're there handicap against us is all." Tayura's eyes fell on Asahina sitting over by Chizuru and Hokari watching the game.

Posturing always posturing, Kensuke smiled and headed closer to the basket. "Well I'll stop smiling when you actually go ask her out," he flinched his chin over at the trio watching. He had to take his jabs where he could, and for Touji and Tayura it was their respective female interests. How those two big and brave guys got weak and cowardly in front of those two was hilarious. Bending over and clapping his hands together he listened for Asuka or Kuesu to call out an action. "Or we can have Shinji go talk to them for you. They seem to be listening really intently to your sister," Kensuke could play the psych game too.

Taking the bait all too quickly, Tayura forgot all about the game and turned back to Chizuru. "They are not listening to her or interested in Ikari-kun," he didn't sound too sure of himself. As Hikari blushed and Akane yelled out some denial to Chizuru's latest fawning over Shinji, Tayura was lost. Kuesu ran past them and quickly made the point, but as she moved it was a cool breeze. Girl still looked picture perfect and cool as a cucumber. "Or maybe not, but until you tell her you never know," Kensuke idly picked at his ear.

"Are you attempting to get those little things attention, Aida-kun. You're our third, maybe you should act like it," Kuesu barked. Slamming the ball into Tayura's hands, the girl fluffed her hair. Posing for boys flocking around them, she had a hard edge about her. "Silly little boys only interested in playing around. Anything to serious and they go running," she fixed her sliding hair band.

Speaking louder than normal, Chizuru could be heard gossiping with the other girls. "Oh I can't wait for our date tonight. It's been so long since we had time just the two of us. Shin-chan's been so busy lately. He had to deal with some pests, annoying little tag alongs, but I think he's all but forgotten about it now. Going to be so romantic just the two of us. And he has this new trick with his tongue, it just about makes me burst when he starts," she sang right into the court.

The little comment was timed for the moment the next time Touji started playing. "Funny how easily she's distracted," Touji joked as he ran past the prone girl. Kuesu was vibrating with anger, stalking closer to the sidelines while Touji ran. Passing the ball to Tayura over Kensuke's head, he ran to behind the geek allowing Tayura to run past. Running his hands over Kensuke's head, coating it with perspiration, "At least we got ladies to talk to Ken, you're still just an observer at this point. I'll talk to Hikari, Tayura Asahina but what about you?"

"Oh I have my plans," Kensuke felt that needle of jealousy spike deep. Thankfully Asuka recovered fast enough to stop Tayura's assault and passed the ball safely to the recovered Kuesu. It had to mean something, Kensuke was sure of it, it just had to! "You two can keep chasing after those girls but never doing anything while I actually act on my pursuits," Kensuke tugged his shirt off his skin to let air circulate. Back at the movie theatre he had sat by both Kuesu and Asuka, and now he was on their team! So while Himari and Chizuru traded barbs with the foreigners, Kensuke would side with them! One of if not both of them must like him! Maybe he'd steal Kuesu away from whatever boyfriend she had or even Soryu. Having a girl order him around, well Kensuke liked that idea.

Head faking Himari, Asuka dashed back behind the three-point line and took a chance. Slapping her hands together, Kuesu wrapped her arms around the German girl's waist, "One point to go!" Of course Asuka had made it, now it was end game. The side lines got quiet after the girls squealed as their personal avatar on the court scored against the men. "Look alive geek," Asuka gave him a toothy grin, "We win this and I'll buy you a drink."

Taking point and checking the ball with Touji, Kensuke got a wicked idea. With the promise of reward for victory, promise from a very pretty unattached girl, he had a swell of pride. It was rare for him to get that feeling. With the other guys he was always the last in line, but maybe he wouldn't finish last after all. "Tell you what Touji. If I score our winning point you go tell the class rep how you feel," he bounced the ball back to Touji. It was a chance he was willing to take, what did he have to lose.

"Well if you don't, you tell me what little thing caught your eye. I can tell somebody did. Or better yet you go ask Jinguji why she's here instead of with that phantom boyfriend. Bet she doesn't even have one, just covering like the Kraut would," Touji lapped at the trails going down his lips. They all stunk to high heaven, at least the men. He waved at Hikari who along with Asahina replied in kind. Panting hard, Touji was giving it his all the whole game and had garnered a little cheering section. "Let's see this now," Touji tried to pull a little foot work only to trip and fall.

"Aida get it!" Asuka yelled as she started scrambling over. Tayura was fast to counter her, the two had a strange little dance around one another, only Tayura was a man in love. While Asuka was all for helping Kuesu, she didn't have the same drive to win.

Yanking the ball out of Touji's feeble grip, Kensuke rounded his friend and eyed the basket. He wasn't the jock, wasn't the playboy, or even the 'bad boy' but he wasn't a loser damn it! Making a break for it, he saw Kuesu get free of Himari barely, but he didn't pass. Tayura spun on his heels and slapped at him. The taller boy succeeded in smacking Kensuke's free hand sending tendrils of pain down Kensuke's arm, but didn't stop him. Stomping his feet on the ground, the shock traveled up his spine. The sounds of his classmates dimmed as he approached. Vision spinning, the basket had tripled, aiming at the center he put all his hopes into it and then let fly. Once the ball left his hands he stumbled over his own feet and pitched to the ground.

"Damn it Tayura!" Chizuru broke her flirty veneer and stood up. Rushing the court, the clapping and cheers of the others was quite loud for just a petty basketball game. Grabbing Tayura by the collar, Kensuke could barely see it, "You said you'd win with no problem! Said with Himari on your side and Kensuke on the other you'd have no chance of losing. Did you know what I bet her? Do you know what I lost in this?!" Himari screamed in Tayura's face.

Rolling onto his back, Kensuke saw his two teammates standing over him with disapproving looks on their faces. Both helped him up with one hand though. "That was a risky move Aida-kun. Unnecessary risks result in failure most of the time," Kuesu's frown melted into a smile though. Spinning around though, Kuesu sauntered over to Chizuru and pinched her hand off of Tayura. "You know what that means fox. One week of solitude from him. Next week he is mine and you get to say nothing," she was up close and personal.

Many guys, Kensuke included felt the swell in their pants at seeing that. Ridiculously attractive girls standing bust to bust in kissing distance. Well imagination filled in the rest and Kuesu made that extra little dive in. "So-so Touji what you say about our little bet?" he was still watching Kuesu though. Slapping Tayura's in the gut, "What is this about a bet between bet? I haven't heard anything about that." His buddies where there to support him, they smiled and were proud of him. For a change he was the star!

"That is us stealing Shinji away from Chizuru. He's her fiancé in case he hasn't told you. With how that cow keeps him away from her I'd suspect you don't," Asuka had a smug yet satisfied face. Waving at her fans, Asuka hadn't intended to speak so loud. "Oh hell they over heard me," she sneered. The girls were all talking amongst one another after that. Shinji had a fiancé yet had a girlfriend!? The two were fighting one another for him! The legend continued, and if one girl could steal the crown away from the fiancé who knew what else could happen.

Watching Touji walked over to the seated Hikari and Akane, Kensuke went a little chill. Shinji was the girl Kuesu was talking about? How could he compete against that, Shinji was his friend…but Asuka? "So about that drink, Asuka," he'd use her name…he'd be informal and friendly with her. Maybe Kuesu wasn't an option, but Shinji had said more than enough that Asuka was just a friend. Turning to Asuka though he found her gone, already off with Kuesu. "Maybe I should look for a less contestable girl," with those still watching him maybe he did have options. Plenty of other girls, girls that shared his interests and hobbies.

"So how did it go Touji, you tell her?" the geek asked as Touji walked back. Walk might have been a little extravagant though, shambled was more like it as if all the life drained out of him. "Touji, you alright?" he nudged his buddy in the side. Touji never looked this bad, well save when he talked about Mari. Right now Touji had that look, "What happened man?"

Face all pale as if the world was coming to an end and he had front row seats. "I messed up, Ken. I messed up bad. I walked over to her, bowed my head and just yelled if she'd go out with me. I was so nervous," Touji actually bowed again as if doing it all over again. Looking over at the girls, both Hikari and Asahina were gabbing while a cluster of girls surrounded them and pointed over. "Asahina responded not the class rep. Soon as I asked she said yes…I asked out Tayura's girl," Touji shuddered. Had he not just finished a match maybe they'd have noticed, but it just looked like him recovering.

"Yup, you fucked up real good there buddy," Kensuke felt no real sympathy. He had his thoughts about Hikari and Akane, and this proved it. "Well at least you have a date," which was why Kensuke didn't feel bad. Judging on how those two acted, Kensuke half suspected what Touji was saying. Hikari like Tayura and Akane liked Touji, funny stuff. Hope it didn't get them into a fight. Guys in love though, it was known to break up friendships. "You going to tell him or should I?" Kensuke asked but Touji didn't answer.

Walking past the two of them, Tayura held securely under her arm Chizuru lead the man away stomping her feet hard. Pissed did not describe, livid a mild comparison, the girl wanted blood and Tayura was going to have to pay. "Well I'm upset at all of you. Costing me a week with Shin-chan. But I shouldn't have bet…shouldn't have risked," she didn't speak to them just said it aloud as she walked.

Having never seen Chizuru anything but her bubbly and happy self unless Tayura did something wrong, Kensuke was amazed. Girl looked positively demonic! Best leave her alone to cool off. Helping Touji to the vending machines, he got the jock a drink and calm. Changes were coming, hopefully for the better but he didn't know. He did notice a few girls watching him though, girls that weren't bound to cause problems like the current. A nice unattached girl that wouldn't start a feud. He'd look, but after all the issues he was seeing, maybe his computer was safer after all. Time would tell.

X-X

Damn foolish woman! Himari was livid but had no venue to vent her frustration on the one who caused this insipid situation. What had Chizuru been thinking when making that foolish bet, even worse why hadn't that news been passed on? Had Himari known of said wager she'd have played that odd game much better than she had. Thinking it nothing but knocking the veteran slayer down a notch she had gone all out though, much to her loss now. It wasn't just pride damage, no her beloved master was going to have to venture into the lionesses den!

"And while I am to be frustrated and at anger, she be off celebrating and relaxing," Himari clenched her fist tightly. Soon her cherished blade would be returned soon, but until then her knuckles were forced to pop against the sheath of some nameless blade. Moving so swiftly her hair flowed like a river behind her, the flummoxed cat-girl stomped down the hallway towards the apartment. Thinking of ways to calm her nerves, "Mayhap yon Mizuchi will favor me with another spar, or potentially the young Ayanami." Something, she had to do something to burn this energy.

Throwing the door open, it bounced off the wall with the tolling of a bell, Himari kicked her wooden sandals off. "I haft returned but with buggered news," she'd have to let them know. None here save for Shinji trusted Jinguji, and they'd love to hear what Minamoto set into motion. With the sun already set, most of Himari's day post game running about town trying to burn off her frustration. It wouldn't do good for her to be angry, anger did bad things to her. Thankfully a good twenty mile run knocked a lot of her more violent instincts down to just terrible obstruction.

"Excellent, Neko-hime is here to tend to Beer-hime," Shizuka called out with a long drawl. Sitting in a chair next to the couch, Shizuka actually appeared quite exasperated. Clad in only undergarments and holding a hand of cards before her, Shizuka waved her tongue at the newest addition. With an offhanded gesture towards Misato, Shizuka presented a most expected sight. Almost bored in her recounting, "It seems she was the owner of her own bad news. Though she refuses to tell us unless we can best her in this game. As it is however, her brain functions higher on alcohol."

Her socked feet skidded across the freshly polished wooden floor, but Himari didn't fall on her rump. Likely Shinji polished the floor this afternoon in lieu of returning to school as they had expected. "Katsuragi-san, Chelsie-kun what be though doing?" Himari was tempted to leave. Her aggravation shifted right into perplexed instantly. She had not expected to see her female flatmates to be sitting around the coffee table in various states of undress. Having never really seen Misato like this, Himari was amazed. Forcing her small bout of jealousy down, Himari took the open chair, "I have my own bad news to tell."

Waving a bottle of brandy around like a cudgel, Misato listed two and fro in her slacks and bra. "Oh great and now this one shows up! I swear if I had known demons existed I'd have just went into public relations! Leave demons to fight angels…what they do isn't it?" she slurred and leaned heavily into Lizlet. Her free hand wrapped around the tea-sprite and groped her topless chest, apparently the maid went from top to bottom in disrobing. Snickering Misato took another swig, "Man you got some big ones for such a cute face. You're quite the pervert aren't you little miss tea fairy."

"K-K-K-Katsuragi-san maybe you shouldn't drink anymore…and you shouldn't t-touch me there!" Lizlet squealed. Squirming and fidgeting as Misato manhandled her in drunken and unfocused motions, she just looked to her compatriots for help. With none coming, she just let out a moan of disappointment. "Auuuu I took this form to increase sales at the shop, not because its p-perverted! It's how a lot of English teenagers look!" nobody bought her excuse. They saw how looked and acted with Shinji, Lizlet was likely a closet pervert.

As Misato swung closer to her, Himari plucked the bottle out of the woman's hands. "Games, ye all be playing games while Jinguji plots and plans against us. As the guardians come for reasons not known, and Shuten-douji's minions be flooding the city," she popped the top off the bottle. Misato had opened and closed it with such practiced ease and yet Himari had to try hard. Taking a sample of the dark fluid, it was sweeter than expected, but not as good as sake. As the warmth of the drink hit her stomach, "Katsuragi-san I challenge you! A game of Go, I shant be beaten by you in this state." She'd get her answers.

Slipping her clothing back on as Misato reeled back in shock, Shizuka smile and oozed out of her seat. "What would you have us do Neko-hime? We only see a few in motion, the aged kitsune doesn't know about the guardians, and the Slayer-hime is already slain by Slayer-kun. We want to know what is rattling around in her mind, yet she keeps her mind a trap to us," she rattled off her counter argument. Grabbing the board and pieces from the closet, the Mizuchi set them down before the players. "I have missed this madness. Convulsing from the attack that you have forgotten had not been enjoyable," Shizuka was inches away from Himari as she sneered.

Ah yes she had forgotten that Minori demon and her companion nue, but Himari had never seen that one despite searching. A sensation of shame did waft over her, it filled her cup just that little bit to overflowing. "Apologize for neglecting your strife. Ye did fight against a powerful foe and suffered greatly. As loath as I am to accept and admit it, your absence was felt powerfully," Himari bowed her head. Odd how one that originally was an enemy was now so well received by her. Leave it to her master to see the truth in people, that actions might not be all there is. The soul of a person, that was what mattered.

Stealing the white pieces before Himari could, Misato slammed her first piece down. "Jinguji! Did you say Jinguji? How the hell did you know that bitches name? S-spying on me? Thought it was only that one that liked to watch. Surrounded by perverts and voyeurs," Misato turned form Lizlet to Shizuka. Wiggling her fingers closer to Lizlet's bust the sprite shied away and cried out cutely. "If I was Shinji-kun you'd let me wouldn't you," she crinkled her nose at the girl and went back to the game.

Placing piece after piece with Misato, the other two watching on, Himari was trading the bottle back and forth with her opponent. "You know of Jinguji, we have spoken of her and her foul magics before. Kuesu Jinguji, a childhood friend of Shinji-sama," but how had Misato known of her. They tried keeping Misato in the dark of a lot of their more dangerous issues, no reason to add to her worries. Trying not to stare at the scare marring Misato's otherwise pristine flesh, Himari failed more than succeeded. "And I do agree that our companions do have dubious intent," she had heard Shizuka the other day.

Coiling her tongue around a phantom instrument of size well known to both of them, Shizuka pumped it in the air. "Did you try spying on me as I did on you? I admit to coaxing Slayer-kun into it. As it appears he is weak to confessions of love," Shizuka couldn't maintain her poker face. Her face actually colored beyond its pale corpse like norm. Surrounded by three women now giving her their full attention, Shizuka pulled in on herself. "I…was offered the chance to leave you, have another take my place. The demon council is more concerned with Shuten-douji. I couldn't do it. I told Slay-Shinji of this and why. He was shocked so I made play on him. I see why you are addicted to him," she pumped her tongue a few more times.

Actually taking a moment to examine the board, Himari found her vision swam a little. She had heard the two of them the other day, but had not known the way. Of course she loved him, much like Lizlet, Shizuka owed Shinji her life and was quite the unique man. Finding a hole in Misato's strategy, Himari put her piece down and earned a loud gasp from her opponent. "Tis something I have come to accept, that Shinji-sama will continue to make me vexed. While he doth not seek female companions they rush to him. So what doth your score had been?" she prayed Shinji bested Shizuka. Maybe then she'd stop reminding everybody of how they couldn't outscore Shinji.

"Stop talking about my Shinji-kun like that!" Misato yelled. With one arm around Lizlet's neck, Misato grabbed the bottle again. After a mighty swig, she turned to Lizlet and leaned in close. "You want some too cutie? God girls today are putting me to shame. Hate this, hate all of this…not knowing what's going on, being so weak compared to all of you…why can't I be half as special as you?" she fell atop Lizlet and rubbed. It wasn't overly sensuous as Misato was way too drunk and Lizlet was paralyzed in shock, but it was a sight to see.

Sealing the bottle before it could spill out and make a mess for Shinji to clean up, Himari set it down at her feet. Her normally steady hand was shaking ever so slightly, Misato's drink was far more potent than the sweet sake she had sampled in the past. But the show, game, and drink was slowly ebbing her anger away. "Katsuragi-san perhaps molesting the servant not be the best of things. Let Shinji-sama do that first least," she set another scoring point down. Misato was a damn fine opponent in this game, a skilled mind even when intoxicated as Himari for a moment glimpsed the grand plan.

"You are special, Beer-hime. If you cannot see that it is only because of your insecurities," Shizuka hung over the back of the couch. She watched, it was what she was trained for, and she did a damn fine job of it. Trailing her limb, a long tendril of water down Misato's back, Shizuka got a the drunken captain to lurch back. "Skilled in many ways, accepted in ways that most would be envious of, and fun to play with," Shizuka gently pulled Misato up and back into a seated position. "Now why don't you tell us why you are so…piqued today?" gently the Mizuchi flowed back to her seat.

Grabbing one of the white pieces, Misato once again proved to be more than just a pretty face. Setting her last piece down, the dominoes of her hidden plan came to fruition and scored an insurmountable victory. Scoffing, "Noihara said it already…don't know no Kuesu but Meruhi Jinguji that bitch from the UN. Didn't know that was her first name not her last. She tricked me and really sank her fangs into Shinji-kun. Ripped right into him about you girls and his life. Knew about demons and that slayer business. Then said she'd be getting him married by months end. Arranged by his mother or something," Misato listed on the couch after her victory.

"Her mother is around too!?" Himari clenched her teeth hard enough to hurt. Reaching for the bottle, Himari was stunned to find it gone from her feet and being wiggled across the table by Shizuka. Maybe she did have enough already. "Our problems doth be expounded then! A fools wager by yon fox, over a game of baskets and balls. I knew not of its import. We lost and that means yon fox is forbid to speak to Shinji-sama while Kuesu takes her place," Himari sunk in on herself. She was to blame as well for not trying harder. But now they had to just accept it.

Holding her hand up, her chest jiggling at her sudden movement, Lizlet vied for attention. "Why does it matter so much if just Minamoto-san can't see him? I can see him," Lizlet's eyes softened and her face burst scarlet. A hand trailed down between her legs, but before anything could happen an unconscious Misato fell atop her again. "K-Katsuragi-san I'm not ready for this yet!? I want Shin-sama to be my…help!" Lizlet tried to move Misato but failed. Each attempt to gently push the woman off just sent another hand or limb someplace private.

Both Shizuka and Himari stood over the show of the unconscious Misato manhandling the supple Lizlet, they didn't help. "She has a point you know. Just because Kitsu-hime can't be with him, doesn't mean somebody else can't tail them. Would be easy to derail any plans princess has as long as somebody keeps with them. Though, maybe we just let Slayer-kun have her," Shizuka reset the board to default. Opening the bottle, Shizuka slid a tendril inside and some of the fluid vanished into it marring the coloring.

Starting a new game, Himari wanted to win this time…well still wanted to win something today. "What good would that do? She be his promised one, to be his…his wife," Himari said the word reverently. Wife, she'd never be wife, no matter how much she longed for it. It was just a word, just a concept, but it held mystical qualities. Maybe it was the drink fogging her senses, but as her face warmed and her legs rubbed, she fantasized. A wedding kimono, passing the dish of sake back and forth or maybe even one of those fancy western wedding dresses…her husband was never a doubt.

Starting to play the game in earnest, Shizuka drained a bit of the bottle herself with each move. After half the board was covered she let Himari have some more. "Well look what it did to me, look at the tea-sprite. I might even consider Katsuragi judging by some of her comments this night. Slayer-kun has a way of making those side with him and not against him. Princess might be swayed to our side if she is given more a touch of him. Something about him…it is soothing and welcoming," Shizuka set her piece and let her finger stay on it.

So the serpent was feeling something she wasn't used to, Himari mused. More odd images flooded her head, most of them pleasing. "Still would rather she not be here. She'd been with him nearly as long as myself. I…am jealous of her and his connection. But mayhap you have an idea worth exploring. As long as she know as do yonself that in the order of his heart I be above you. I do ask that if you must take from my Love, you not steal from my time. I may not be as skilled at touch as he, but I am far more than you," she hoped at least.

More drink and games were played, but the topic changed to more civil and enjoyable matters. Shizuka's recovery and her time at Tamamo's. Himari and Shinji's training along with Rei's improved skills. The wondered about Misato's feelings and what maybe she hadn't said. By the end of the night, the bottle was empty, and Himari woke during the night with a sudden fear. An all-encompassing fear for Shinji's life, but he head ached and her body pinned under Lizlet somehow. How Himari had gotten out of her kimono she hadn't known, but was glad that Lizlet still had her undergarments on.

X-X

The steaming water from the showerhead was coursing down their bodies, but Shinji wasn't even aware of it. He didn't even feel most of it as Chizuru was blocking most of it as she pressed herself limply against the wall as he tended to her from behind. This had to end quickly or his beloved wouldn't be able to walk home. Now Shinji didn't have a big head about his prowess, he just knew Chizuru and Himari's bodies well enough. Like a piece of fine art, he cherished, loved, and doted on them so it was only natural. What would give her maximum pleasure, make them squeal, and how to relax them.

Right now it was all about pleasure, Shinji wanted to remind Chizuru that she was first in his heart and would remain there. All through their date he had the specter of Kuesu's mother and the statement she made. Chizuru hinted that she had her own bad news for him, so both agreed to hold off the negatives until after the date and the walk home.

The evening was nearly picture perfect. Starting with some food at a classier place, his Nerv badge got them in. Older couples rubbernecked and shunned them, which only made the two of them enjoy the evening better. Chizuru just had that effect on him, when she was happy it made him happy. After the pricy but enjoyable food was downed Shinji stepped out of his comfort zone and asked if she wanted to go to a teen dance club. Crowds made Shinji nervous, somebody could recognize him for good or ill. But he wanted to make this Chizuru's night and she was a social butterfly at times. Of course she wanted to go, so they danced. He was an uncoordinated mess, but she matched his moves just like she did ages ago on the dance mat. After they worked up a sweat, he saw the look in her eyes that matched his own feelings…they went to the love motel they first used.

"S-Shin-chan I can't…I'm going numb…its…its…" Chizuru mewled as her body convulsed in reaction to Shinji's actions. The shower was her idea, claiming it would speed up the cleaning process and get them home quicker. It was already terribly late, Misato was going to be furious, so after their hour and half long session the slipped into the shower together. "N-no more…I can't live without you with me anymore…I love you Shin-chan," Chizuru flopped hard. Her arms crossed against the wall and she buried her face in them.

They weren't supposed to do this, it was just to clean up after the extremely enjoyable time in 'their room', but he should have known better. "I love you too Chizu-can. Only thing that will make me ever leave you…is you," he kissed her back between her shoulder blades. He'd stay with her no matter what until she was done with him, but selfishly he prayed she never was. The Kuesu issue would have to be handled gently, he'd have to put the girl down soft. He may have promised he'd marry Kuesu first but Chizuru held market share. So as he cleaned off the sweat and fluids from her body, Chizuru responded and they found one another like this.

Using her last vestige of strength, Chizuru pushed off the wall so her back was pressed against Shinji's. Not the best angle, but it allowed her to turn enough to kiss her man, which she did. Her hand caressed his face , eyes longingly gazing into his, until they shut again. "L-little bit…more," she was moaning enough to almost be feared of having an asthma attack. Short quick spurts of breath escaped her with each entry and withdrawal. "Magic touch, baby, you've…" she slumped into his arms forcing him to hold her up.

He wasn't close to finishing, but Shinji was used to that. An added benefit would be he wouldn't have to clean that out again. Officially that was how this shower session started, he wanted to use his tongue to thoroughly clean her. That was something that amazed Shinji every time, she tasted wonderful to him, all the women he'd been with did. Locker room banter had generally stated women tasted horrid down there, but Shinji found the honey pot an apt analogy. Maybe it was because he'd never been with a full human and they had something different about them. Or maybe it was just his feelings that spared him.

"I just know what you like," Shinji teased and bit her ear lightly. It was time to end this, or he'd have to pay for a full night as Chizuru would be out like a light. Lightly running his finger under her left breast, just where it met the flesh of her ribs, Shinji tugged on the earlobe he had captured. He winced as Chizuru screamed out her climax. Tiny space compiled with the moisture in the air amplified the sound to ear shattering. He did know the combination to her enjoyment as she did his, "Wonderful as ever, Love."

Letting Shinji lead her out of the shower, she nearly toppled over when he stopped to turn it off, Chizuru must murmured pleasant sounds. "Just glad that Shizuka isn't here to remind me that you out scored me again…can call me Love again," she sat on the stool used for cleaning. Wrapping the towel he covered her with around her she started drying. "You don't…you're not angry at that are you, Shin-chan? I could…you know…finish that off if you wanted," she teased and licked her lips.

Drying himself as well, Shinji just shook his head. While he loved praising her, he always thought the inverse was demeaning. "Love," he knew she couldn't get enough of the term but public affection was beyond him, "the fact you let me make love to you is enough for me. I never get angry at that, and no. We'd never leave if we started again." Seeing her move sluggishly, maybe he went a little too long, he soon found himself clothed and helping her. Her curves, her skin, her hair, he dried it all and her scent was clean and wild. No, they had to go now, it was almost midnight already! Helping Chizuru off the washing stool, he handed her cloths over to her, "Want help dressing my lady?" He bowed as a butler would.

"Oh poo, you would say something like that," she stuck her tongue out and grabbed her cloths. A few hustled moments of action and the fox girl was clad in her fancier clothing. A black evening dress that started just below the shoulders and went down past the knees. Linking arms with Shinji, "Tonight was fantastic, Shin-chan. I'm…I know I've been a little odd lately, yesterday even more so. Just glad you put up with me." Snuggling up to his arm, her favorite place that evening, the two left the room they had used to their hearts content.

He was almost going to say the same thing, but just patted her arm and headed down to the reception area. Handing a few prepared bills over, Shinji had expected their stay to go beyond the initial estimate. "Sorry for staying longer," he saw the man ogling Chizuru and felt that spike of anger. Why did people think it was alright to stare? "You can keep the change," he saw the man's eyes going south of her face. Once outside in the nice cool night air, "Didn't mean to get jealous. With how you light up a room I should expect you to get a few looks, just didn't like how he was doing it."

Lacing her fingers with his, Chizuru pressed a finger to his lips shutting the fuming Third Child. "I would have said something if you hadn't rushed us out of there. Damn old man was a pervert," her fire was back. That cold glint of whit, the intellect behind the pretty face that wasn't expected, she showed it to him though. Her high heels clicked and clacked as they ventured down the abandoned avenues of the late night streets. "Now after being so spoiled I almost don't…don't want to ruin things by talking about what we have to. But a promise is a promise and I don't welch on bets," she held him tighter.

Ah yes the perfect way to ruin a wonderful evening. Memories of earlier in the day, that dark cloud of verbal assault he suffered at the hands of Meruhi was a miasma. Shinji wasn't a fool when it came to his aborted talk with Misato. He was a realist, she was a grown woman and had friends he didn't know about. So when she was offered a more 'mature' evening out than socializing with her teenage ward it was a no brainer. He'd just make her favorite meal one evening when Himari was off training Rei and they could play a game or something. But that moment he saw Misato on the other side of the door closing, that's when he felt fear. And rightfully so.

How the woman knew what she did at the time had been baffling. His relationship with Chizuru and Himari she tricked him into telling her more than he felt comfortable. How Rei had integrated into his life and the why he saved Asuka. Questioning if he had plans to 'force' them into the same relationship as the others. Then came what he knew of Kuesu and Asuka. How and why Kuesu was Asuka's bodyguard and why he needed one. She picked his brain for so many secrets it left him feeling shamed and little. Made him feel like he was just using the wonderful women in his life, made him feel a pig. So when she said he needed to be punished, he agreed. But the punishment wasn't what he expected.

Yeah his happy feelings were quickly doused by thinking of that. "Chizuru-san," he felt her tense at the shift in his tone, "do you think that I'm…that I'm treating Himari, you, and the-the rest poorly?" He had been tricked a little by Shizuka into their little tryst, but he wouldn't lie about it. She was an odd girl but a great friend. She was risking her life to keep them in the know of things, was hurt badly by whoever that Minori girl was. And he felt for her. Couldn't spend so long with somebody who you knew was watching you all the time and not feel a little something. But that just brought Meruhi's comments back up. Was he just using them? He had to know, "Am I using you?"

"No more than we use you, Shinji-kun," she patted his arm lovingly. "What we got going on is strange I'll admit. Never thought the man I love would see others aside from myself," Chizuru increased her pace of walking. A pair walked ahead of them half a block away, the fox leaned forward to get a better look and slowed again. Batting her ever loving beautiful eyes at him, Chizuru beamed a thousand watt smile at him. "We love you, Shinji-kun, never doubt that. If you were 'using' us we'd never leave the bedroom. Those girls that fawn over you at school that you don't notice…you'd notice and then we wouldn't care for you. It might be odd, but we are with you because we want to be, and I hope its mutual," she kissed his nose.

That did his soul a world of good, Shinji was many things and a self-abuser was one. Low self-esteem was to blame, and he feared he was doing wrong that he was bad. Hearing the pure honesty in her voice though, Shinji would trust those that trusted in him. That said he bit the bullet, "I met Kuesu's mother today. I didn't know it was her or that she worked for the UN. She said she was going to force the marriage that my mother and her planned. I'll…I'll fight it," he felt his confidence rising. Memories of his friendship with the raven haired girl at the lake were one thing, marrying an almost stranger was another.

Leaning in close, Chizuru whispered short and to the point, "I think those people ahead of us are stalking us. They alter their pace as we walk." Suddenly, just like that, the atmosphere shifted from jovial to threatening. "As for Jinguji…well next week you'll get to know her better. I made a bet over a game. If I won she'd vanish for a month, if she won she gets my place at your side for a week," that wasn't her concern now. "I think though…even if you do marry her if you still love me and stay with me it won't matter. What is it anyway? A piece of paper, paper doesn't have feelings, this does," she put her hand to his heart and his to hers.

"S-should we merge then? It could be the ones that attacked Shizuka-san," Shinji felt her warm and soft hand. It was not fair! Why was it when they had a good day something like this happened, that their joy was ruined by 'outsiders'. He hated it! Her words though, how was it that she could cut through his concerns so effortlessly. Just like Himari, Shinji trusted and adored Chizuru for both mental and physical. Smiling, his body going chill as he noticed the couple ahead alter their speed with theirs again, "You really are one of a kind. I was so worried about this, all day after she said it…and you're right." Reaching into his pocket he pulled out a gift he had been saving. He had planned on giving it to her at her door after he confessed to Meruhi's statement, but now seemed better.

Jerking to a stop, Chizuru turned to see Shinji down on one knee. "S-Shin-chan now isn't…what are you doing?" her cheeks blazoned. Her free hand went to her chest and clutched at the silky dress. Wafting about, body light as air, she had to know what he was doing. Her head dipped as she swallowed hard, "Ar-are you…?"

Taking the ring out of his pocket, one of two he bought that day as the other was for Himari, Shinji slid it on her finger. "If you'll have me," it was gold but not the most expensive thing. His pay from Nerv was good, but the spontaneity had prevented him from getting anything to fancy. Feeling uncomfortable, his nerves getting the better of him, "It's cheap. Likely only gold plated, I'll get you a better one. After everything that happened today I just…I had to do this now." He was tired of people running his life for him, this was to be his choice, who he loved and married.

Taking the ring off her finger, Chizuru waggled her finger at the man as his face crumpled. "Silly, if I put that on now it will fall after I do this," she kissed him and vanished into the night air. Her dress fell to the ground, the ring safely stored in Shinji's hand. Her voice spoke to his mind, "And of course I'll be your mistress. Himari was right, I'll never be wife in paper, but as long as we have this." Chizuru forced Shinji to wrap his hand around the ring and slide it into his pocket.

"We know you're following us! Just come back here so we can talk like civilized people! No reason for us to fight," Shinji called out. The feeling of oneness calmed his heart down, it always did. "Thank you Chizu-chan, for-for everything. Think I'll let you take over now," he told her. Trusting her with his life, Shinji let Chizuru take control of their combined body. He'd talk to Himari when he got home, offer her the other ring if she'd take it. Only fair as his feelings for his bodyguard were only a hairs breath smaller, the others…maybe in time.

It took the pair stalking them only a moment to appear before them, a small girl with a wide smile and an expressionless teenager. "Onii-chan I finally get to meet you! Only I didn't want to meet you like this. I wanted to speak to only you not this…other thing," the little girl pouted cutely. Playfully grinding one foot against the ground, she tapped her chin with her finger in a petulant look. "I can't kill her if she's in you. I can't do what needs to be done like this. Nue?" she looked to her companion.

"Nobody can stand between us when we work together!" Chizuru declared as the exclusion walls came down bathing everything in blue light. Leaping to her side, the slacks Shinji wore tore from the extreme motion. "And what is this about hurting little ol' me? What have I ever done to you? Jealous of our love?" she tugged on Shinji's whiskers. Nue countered and the pair started a dangerous dance.

As Chizuru fought, Shinji could only watch on from the place between. When he was lost within himself, when Chizuru was in control, it felt like he was in a sea within himself. He could see, but that was it, so when Chizuru slapped Nue he didn't know how hard. But this time it was different, as the fight went longer things changed, were different than before. "Is-is somebody there?" he felt something watching him.

"Power…unlimited power. Rule this world, rule everything…unlimited power if you join me," a raspy voice asked.

Spinning in the ethereal void he found himself in, Shinji found himself face to face with a nude Chizuru. Only she looked different, more sultry but less playful, less the girl he loved. "W-who are you?" he had to ask. If Chizuru was outside fighting, it couldn't truly be her here with him. As the faux Chizuru flew closer to him, arms outstretched, she was just as wonderful. Cringing away from her, "You're not Chizuru-san, what are you doing here?"

With snakelike speed the faux Chizuru had her arms around Shinji, pressing her body to his, "But I am your beloved Chizuru-san. I'm the part of her that she hides from, that she traps deep inside. The part she's afraid of. But I am her, and I offer you all of me…of us. The true Chizuru. And I come with power, power to end the guardians, to take all we want, to live like king and queens!" She ground her hips against him, moisture trickled down. "All you have to do is let me into you…she won't deny you, and we can be full again…our true self," she whispered into his ear. "Just think about it, next time we merge…just think," she suckled on his earlobe and then…it was over.

"Shin-chan I drove them off!" Chizuru cheered for herself as she draped herself over Shinji. His body had a cut down the cheek and a sore hand, but Chizuru had none of that. After a solid fight, nobody getting the upper hand, the Minori girl had just said she was bored and that she'd see her big brother later and they left. Back at Chizuru's apartment, Rei was up waiting for them, they all slept in Chizuru's bed. Shinji in the middle of the two, he didn't rest. Hard to rest with Ayanami wiggling her pert behind into his crotch and moaning softly in her sleep. But what kept him up more was that thing he heard…that dark feeling. Did he dare trust it, or was it a lie? Another day, he'd ask her about it another day.

X-X

Notes

Trying to mix it up and add a little more seriousness to this and add more Kanokon elements. Damn balancing act of characters confounds me at times, but fun at others. So much to cover, what to use and what to leave behind…well hope you enjoyed this one. Just wanted to insure that the primary couple of Shinji/Chizuru/Himari is intact…going to need more Himari soon as she isn't getting enough loving. Lizlet too for that matter…damn minx. Oh well just have to keep writing I suppose

Later

Mercaba