Shinji Steel 64
Disclaimer; I do not own Neon Genesis Evangelion or Max Steel. Wish I did, though.
(NYC; abandoned warehouse)
"Very well. Yes, I'll send the ones that acquired the prototypes. I'm pleased you wish to aid us in dealing a blow to those that dare kill His Emissaries. I understand. Good-bye." Ending the call, the accented male voice in the shadows is directed to his associates. "I trust you heard your objectives?"
"We do. We go to Japan, locate Professor Kirishima and, through the usage of truth serum, acquire the remaining information as to activating the remaining device." The other male voice trails off, allowing the first female voice to pick up.
"In turn, during our transport, a courier for your customer will arrive tomorrow evening with the payment for services rendered." The first male smiles widely before nodding his approval.
"Good. In the meantime, our other colleague and myself will engage in a campaign against the Police here. Are you certain you didn't get a good look at who had used a stun weapon of sorts on you?"
"We're sure, Brother. But we could tell the Officer was enraged at us both from the sound of his voice as he ordered us to stop."
"Very well. You two go get some rest. You'll need it for smuggling yourselves and the prototype onto the plane." Glaring intently, he adds, "I expect better results this time around. So do not fuck this up! If the Angels are to lose, then we shall ensure those at NERV are unable to celebrate their triumph over His Emissaries."
(Tokyo-2 Interpol Office; same time)
"So, since you're getting kicked upstairs, who's going to run things here for you, Director Simms?"
"I'm leaning toward Inspector Ray Blunt, Agent Dyson. He's a good Inspector that I have on my short list for potential Directors of this office. I, however, still can't get over the implication that Cochrane, of all people, was…"
"Let me guess." Nikita's voice gets Madeline's attention as she goes on. "He was on the short list."
"Yes, but at the bottom due to his attitude toward others. And don't get me started on his half-assing on the cases. Looks like a full review will have to be done on his case files. See if they were thorough or half-assed. Much as I hate to do this to him…" Turning toward a desk, she smiles softly and says, "Congratulations, Inspector Blunt. You're the new Director of Interpol Tokyo-2."
"Me?" At Madeline's nod, Blunt says, "Not for nothing, ma'am, but are you sure? I mean, I'm a veritable goofball much like Martin there is. Only I don't get my kicks by electrocuting myself. And then there's the issue of my temper."
"You may be a goofball, but you're also good enough for it. And just because you goof around doesn't imply you're incapable of doing your job. Most of the time, your laid-back manner is quite instrumental in catching the miscreants you seek. It lures them into a false sense of security. When they relax, you strike. BOOM! They never see you coming back to them. You catch them with their hands in the proverbial cookie jar. Your temper, however, well it's actually quite effective if used the right way." Blunt's face is beet red, much to the amusement of the others.
"Ma'am, it was all pure blind luck. That's all. I'm not worthy of it. The replacement should be someone focused, mature and diplomatic. I'm not any of those things. I mean, you were here the last time I exploded in a rage."
"I know. And I have to admit, it was quite amusing to see that lawyer and his client fleeing for their lives. Even Cochrane thought so. And it was just last week, too. My how time flies."
"What happened?" Their united query gets Brian and Nikita to weakly grin, yet Madeline smiles fondly.
(One week ago)
Standing in the interrogation room, Inspector Blunt was intently eying the suspect he'd nabbed at the airport three hours previous. It was clean and by the book. Yet the person claimed to have powerful friends.
"C'mon, man, you know you've nothing on me!"
"What do you call those white clumps in cellophane that were in your bag? Powdered cement? Wrong! Those were 10,000 kilos of cocaine. Enough to send you up the river without chance of parole." The suspected drug dealer scoffed, rolling his eyes.
"Yeah, right. I heard about you, homes. The goofy-ass doofus that thinks he can spot a crook and give them enough rope to hang themselves with. Well you're in for a shock as soon as my lawyer gets here."
"I'm sure I am." Next thing Blunt knew, the room's door opened, admitting a man with a face that can only be described as belonging on a weasel. "Took you long enough. I was getting to the point of playing charades just to pass the time away."
"My apologies. I had to make a few arrangements to get my client released from your custody."
"Funny. Your client's going nowhere. He had enough narcotics in his bag to send him up the river for four lifetimes."
"I'm having the search/seizure declared unauthorized. Therefore, you have no valid basis to hold my client on."
"Have you been snorting some cocaine yourself? Because if you think I'm going to do what you tell me to, it must be pretty good shit."
"No, I haven't. And if you persist your harassment of my client, I shall obtain a restraining order against you. Barring you from even going near my client's business interests."
"Even if they're involving narcotics?"
"Even if. That's the way the court system works, Inspector Blunt. I hope I made that abundantly clear to you."
"Oh yes. You explained quite well how 'your' system works. Now let me tell you about the 'Ray Blunt' system." Blunt then heard a knock on the door and said, "Excuse me a moment." Opening the door slightly, he quietly asked, "Is it done?"
"It is, Inspector." The reply was quiet as well, yet it didn't stop Blunt from grinning widely. "Just put the last of it down the drain." The visitor handed Blunt a black leather satchel and smirked.
"Excellent work, Santiago." Closing the door back, Blunt frowned and asked, "Now where was I? Kinda lost my train of thought. I hate when that happens."
"You were about to explain the 'Ray Blunt' system I believe. But, what was the visit about?"
"Thank you. Oh, that was just a minor detail that had to be addressed. Your client's free to go now. With this to go." Plopping the bag onto the table, he saw the drug smuggler grab it up and open it. Open to scream out.
"IT'S EMPTY! WHY IS IT EMPTY?"
"First off, I have an intense dislike when it comes to narcotics and those that transport/sell them. While we were 'chatting', I had that crap put down into the sewage system where it belongs. By now, it should be reaching the sewage treatment facility and in the process of being diluted even further." Kinking his head to the side, he added, "I don't think your bosses at the Cartel will appreciate their product being lost in such a manner. You could very well be a dead man when you go back to them empty handed." Looking toward the lawyer, he smirked. "Which is why he's being released."
"You can't do that! It's against my client's civil rights!"
"I will do everything necessary to keep poison like that from hitting Japanese shores. Transporting poison, just so you know, is not a civil right. As for the Cartel, well, he should've thought about that before he became a drug smuggler. Not my problem if he dies. Should he survive, however…" Slamming his fist down onto the table, Blunt then started.
"I'm going to be out there every day, watching and waiting. If a child so much and comes up to me, telling me someone had tried selling them drugs, I'm gonna show your picture. If the child nods, and I find out where you live. I pay a visit to your house, see, and then I…" Blunt's stature took on an eerie aura as both 'men' started cowering just before blast-off.
"BLOW UP YOUR DOOR WITH A FUCKIN' BAZOOKA! MAKE A BONFIRE WITH THE OTHER DRUG DEALERS THERE! ROAST THAT GERMAN SHEPARD! AROO-ROO! AROO-ROO! AROO-ROO! THEN EAT IT! AND I'M GOING TO GO UPSTAIRS, SCUMBAG, AND I'LL GRAB YOU BY YOUR SILK JAMMIES OR WHATEVER IT IS YOU SLEEP IN!" For a brief instant, both suspect and lawyer could swear Blunt was foaming at the mouth.
"THEN I'LL TAKE YOU DOWN TO YOUR SHINY NEW MERCEDES BENZ DRUGMOBILE, THROW YOU INTO IT AND POUR GASOLINE ALL OVER IT! THEN, THEN I'LL SET IT AFLAME AND LISTEN TO THE SWEET MUSIC OF YOUR CRYING IN AGONY AS THE FLAMES EAT YOU ALIVE!" Seething in hatred, Blunt composed himself just barely enough to speak without yelling. Yet with no loss of venom.
"Now do we have an understanding?" Cowering in a corner far from the ranting and raving lunatic, they could both only nod, hoping it was over. Only… "GOOD! NOW IF YOU WANT TO GO THAT BADLY, THEN I SUGGEST YOU TWO SCUMBAGS GET OUT OF HERE RIGHT NOW, BEFORE I GET REALLY ANGRY AND HURT SOMEBODY! PREFERABLY YOU!"
(Present day)
"Honestly, I never thought I'd see two screaming blurs race out of here fast enough." Madeline's words prompt a smile from Nikita, only her smile is uneasy.
'Oh, it's a good thing Max had Mother thrown into the gulag. I'd hate for any of that to happen to her if Blunt came across her! If I can convince her… I'll have to wait and see.' Shaking it off, she asks, "Will there be anything else we can help you with, Director?"
"No, Miss Kamenev. I believe I've things well in hand. I'll make travel arrangements for myself to NYC before the end of the day. Go ahead and go see your Mother. See if you can get her insight on this Vladimir Karpovskiva." Looking right at Brian, Madeline adds, "Agent Dyson, I hope you'll keep this in mind. Just because the man killed your Father doesn't make him any less of a victim."
"I understand, Ma'am. I'll do what I can to bring him in alive for prosecution. I'll let the Courts handle him." His tone going grim, he adds, "But if he resists, I'll do what has to be done."
"That sounds fair enough, Agent Dyson. Miss Kamenev, I hope you find the answers you seek."
"I hope so too, Director." With that, they exit the building, Nikita bringing her cell out. Pressing a programmed number, she speaks in Russian. "Piotr, Miss Kamenev."
"Yes, Lady Kamenev. How can I help you?"
"Please, it's just Nikita. Lady Kamenev is my Mother."
"It wouldn't be proper, Lady Kamenev. Moreover, as your Mother's currently incarcerated, that makes you Acting Head of Family." Nikita's barely able to suppress a groan, yet rolls her eyes, before getting down to business.
"How much time is needed until wheels up?"
"At least twenty minutes."
"Good. Take the extra time to have two extra fuel pods put onto the plane."
"Two extra? Lady Kamenev, we already have auxiliary fuel pods on here. Any more pods and the plane will fall apart."
"I see. We'll have to see about refueling in Moscow, then. Agent Dyson and I are en route to Old Osaka Air Field from Tokyo-2 now. Will call when we're 25 minutes out."
"I understand, Lady Kamenev. Where are you going?"
"To Mother Russia to visit Mother before New York City, Piotr. Hence…"
"The extra fuel pods. It'll be a long flight. What about the others, though?"
"They're at Tokyo-3, helping Section-2 with their duties in protecting NERV and the Evangelion Pilots."
"I understand, Lady Kamenev." Sighing, Piotr adds, "It's just not right."
"What's just not right, Piotr?"
"The use of children in protecting humanity. I can't tolerate it, Lady Kamenev. It's just not right." Nikita lets a soft smile curl onto her face.
"You, myself and all the others, Piotr. Call you back in 25 minutes till arrival."
"Yes, Lady Kamenev." Ending the call, Nikita looks back over at Brian before switching back to English.
"Our flight will be ready to take off upon arrival."
"Okay." As they get into the Mustang, Brian adds, "I haven't been on a plane since my flight to Japan. Not exactly a frequent flyer."
"Oh? Is it because you don't like flying?"
"Not that. It's just that… I dunno. On my flight to Japan, there was a lot of people flying. I felt very crowded."
"Well, now that it'll just be the two of us on the flight…" Nikita sultrily smirks as she adds, "We can join the 'Mile High Club', and you can get my version of 'frequent flyer miles'." Brian's beet red face renders Nikita into a giggling wreck before Brian returns serve.
"Looks like I'll have to see how many 'miles' I can get on the trips then." Nikita's face has a cute pink hue to it, yet she has an eager smile on her face.
"Mmm, that sounds like a fun way to pass the time." Playfully gripping his crotch, she murmurs, "I think 'Devilwoman' can play with you at least once before I retire her. Preferably on the flight to Russia."
(Old Osaka Air Field; one hour later)
As Brian's dark blue Mustang roars onto the tarmac, he gives a nod to the Guard that opened the gate after his call. Feeling Nikita's eyes on him, he can only grin and shrug.
"I dunno. Somehow, Section-2 gained some clout here in Old Osaka." Mentally, he adds, 'Or maybe N-Tek pulled some strings with the Air Field here.'
(Old Osaka Air Field Control Tower; same time)
"N-Tek Control, be advised 'Knee-capper' and 'Devilwoman' have arrived onto the tarmac. They're heading for the Kamenev Cessna Citation now."
"Excellent, Tower. Anyone else with them?"
"Negative, Control. It's just the two lovebirds."
"Understood. Their flight path is clear far as we can tell here. Fuel status?"
"The Kamenev pilot had extra fuel pods put onto place for the flight. Looks like they're going further than Russia."
"Understood. We'll keep an eye on them via Satellite 8479 upon departure."
"Roger, Control." At that moment, Brian's Mustang pulls up to the Citation and the two get out. "Once the plane takes off, I'll get the POV belonging to 'Knee-capper' into secure housing."
"Copy, Tower."
(Kamenev Citation; same time)
Once they get out, Nikita goes onto the plane to check with Piotr regarding the flight with Brian getting two bags out of his trunk. Brian was surprised that, when they left Tokyo-3, Nikita had packed only one bag. When she came out of the room she'd been allotted, she only smirked cutely before pursing her lips.
"Yoo-hoo, loverboy!" At Nikita's voice, Brian shakes his head and turns toward her. An amused smile on her face, she asks, "You ready to go or what?"
"Yeah. I'm just surprised, is all."
"I thought I'd try packing lightly for once." Tentatively, she asks, "You sure you're ready to meet my Mother? I'll understand if you're not up to it."
"I'm up to it. Are you? Because, from what you told me about the last time you took a guy…"
"Touché, Brian." Nikita then takes her bag into her hands and says, "Piotr's ready to take-off."
"Let's go, then." Getting onto the plane behind her, he can't help but be entranced by her shapely butt behind the skirt as it softly sways. 'One thing's for sure. This flight's going to be interesting.' Nikita, for her part, can only smirk as she knows full well he's admiring her ass.
'Perhaps I can get him to kiss it on the cheeks.' Smirk on her face still, she turns toward the pilot before addressing him in Russian. "Want me to get the door, Piotr?"
"No, Lady Kamenev. I'll handle it. Besides, I'd like very much to meet your beau."
"Very well, Piotr." Switching back to English, as Piotr comes out of the cockpit, Nikita says, "Brian Dyson, meet Piotr Dubronov. He's the best pilot within the Kamenev Family ranks." Switching back to Russian, she adds, "Piotr, Brian Dyson. He's one of the people that protects Humanity's protectors." Piotr looks Brian over before smiling and nodding. Quickly speaking in Russian, he closes the door and goes back into the cockpit.
"What'd he just say, Nik?"
"That he was honored to fly with a Guardian of Humanity's Guardians as they fight those that seek to kill Humanity. Even if they're too young to do so." Brian can only nod in agreement with her words.
'That, Nikita, is too true.' Smirking, he mentally adds, 'I hope Captain Sychola didn't mind me extending the offer to Machiko. It kinda was my fault she got canned.' As he sits down, he sees Nikita sitting across from him. Smirk on her face. "Nik?"
"Yes?"
"What's the smirk for?"
"You'll see when we're in the air." As the Citation picks up speed, her smirk goes even wider before the plane leaves the ground. "Preferably at 35,000 feet."
"Okay." Curious, he then asks, "What kind of bird is this, anyway?"
"Cessna Citation VII. Mother 'acquired' it for business travel and had it modified for intercontinental travel capability. This bird in particular's able to seat up to 13 passengers." Once the plane's leveled off, Nikita's smirk goes sultry as she starts stripping off her business suit.
"Now, seeing as Piotr's sequestered in the cockpit, and we're both alone, I think it's fitting that 'Devilwoman' has at least one good fuck before fading away into obscurity." Once she's done stripping, Brian can see her in her 'Devilwoman' garb. As she puts her horns into place, Brian smirks.
"I've heard of being horny, but you bring new meaning to it." Next thing he knows, 'Devilwoman' straddles him.
"Mr Dyson?" The tone in her voice tells him that while she's like this, it's best to be serious.
"Yes, Devilwoman?"
"Shut up and fuck me." Unzipping his trousers and running them down his legs, he moves the crotch of her bikini bottom to the side before impaling her with his member. "Instant response. Most excellent. You learn quickly, Mr Dyson." As Brian starts pumping her, she strips off her bikini top. Revealing her breasts to him.
"In my job, Devilwoman, hesitation's not an option. Especially when lives are at stake." Taking a chance, Brian softly kisses her lips. With Devilwoman eagerly returning it. As the kiss ends, Brian looks into her green eyes. "How long do we have?"
"At least until we reach the outer ridges of Moscow airspace. Which is about seven hours. Then, and only then, will Devilwoman be ready to be packed away. Never to appear again."
"Oh, I wouldn't mind if she visited on occasion. Break up the monotony, you know?" Giving her a wink, he then feels her kissing him soundly. Along with his pressure growing. Once the kiss ends, he gets out, "I'm… I'm…"
"Let it loose. Give Devilwoman your essence." Hissing sultrily into his ear, she adds, "Your Mistress commands it."
"Yes… Mistress!" His pressure becomes too much for him, his essence flooding into her.
(Tokyo-3; NERV HQ; Section-2 Office; Sychola's office; same time)
"I must admit, Miss Ugatinoga, your history with Interpol and skills regarding filing and typing are impressive. As are your interpersonal relation skills. But I don't see anything about fighting skills."
"Fighting, sir?"
"Yes. Fighting. Everyone, and I mean everyone, in Section-2 is expected to hold their own and provide fire support in a fight." Blinking, he asks, "You'd never qualified on a weapon before, have you?"
"No sir. As a Civilian Aide for Interpol, I was never required to qualify, let alone shoot."
"Well, that won't do. Let's go to the range and see about getting you qualified." Machiko can only nod, stupefied, as she follows him. When they get to the armory for the range, he rubs his hands together. "Let's see. What shall we start you off with?" His eyes then alight in an eerie glee as he nods. "Ah. That'll do." Picking up a rifle, he hands it to her.
"M-16A4, full-auto, with semi-auto setting. 5.56x45mm. Semi-low recoil. Excellent for beginners like you." Machiko can only nod as she feels the heft of it. "Got some weight to it, doesn't it?"
"Yes sir." Watching as he brings out three 30 round magazines, already loaded, she blinks and asks, "How will I know if I qualify or not, sir?"
"Simple. I'll let you know if you qualify or not. The first two mags are to be fired semi, with the third mag to be fired full auto." Winking as he hands her eye and ear protection, he adds, "And I don't want you going 'Al Pacino' on the target either." Machiko blinks again, bewildered.
"Who?" His jaw dropping, Sychola can only be in disbelief.
"You mean you've never seen 'Scarface' at all?" At her headshake of 'no', Sychola can only sigh. "I don't believe it. A classic film and you've never seen it. You poor deprived young woman. No wonder Dyson sent you to me. Don't worry. When we're done here, you'll be enlightened." Nodding, Machiko follows her prospective boss into the range.
"Yes, sir."
(Seven hours and fifteen minutes later; Moscow Airport)
As the Kamenev family's Cessna Citation touches down on the tarmac, Nikita's gently putting her 'Devilwoman' garb away. A bittersweet smile on her face. During the flight, she and Brian joined the 'Mile High Club'. While Brian napped, in the buff, Nikita called Electrix. Telling her about Martin. Describing him as someone that enjoys being electrocuted. Needless to say, Electrix was really quite intrigued. Once she's finished, she takes one last look at her outfit before closing the bag up.
"You okay, Nik?" Brian's voice behind her gets her to turn around before nodding. "You'll miss it, won't you?"
"I will. But perhaps I'm not meant to be 'Devilwoman' if I intend to live an honest life, you know?" Squeaking as she feels his hands cup her breasts from behind, Nikita can only smirk. "You'll have to wait until our flight to New York, sweetie. I don't think Mother would appreciate the sight of her only daughter looking like she'd just been freshly fucked." The feeling of his lips against hers as he gently gropes them once gets a moan from her. "Brian…"
"I know. Much like I can't resist you, I'll do what I can to restrain myself from jumping you in front of your Mom. I don't think she'd like that very much if I'm fucking you in front of her." Releasing her breasts, he sighs. "I just hope she'll take it well. Your decision, I mean."
'I hope so too.' As the Cessna's door opens, she smiles widely at the face she sees. In Russian, she gleefully cries out, "Mother!" Bounding out of the plane, she wraps Anastasia in a hug that Anastasia eagerly returns. "I can't believe it! When did you get out?"
"Last week. I was released on time off for good behavior." Releasing Nikita from the hug, Anastasia looks her over before smiling. "Nikita, you're positively glowing!" Nikita can't help but blush before smiling shyly. "No need to feel embarrassed. If you're happy, you should be radiant."
"I am happy, Mother." Hearing Brian's footsteps on the staircase, Nikita looks back and sees him smiling softly at them both. Waving him down and turning back to her, Nikita adds, "Mother, this is the man Psycho told me about. Section-2 Agent Brian Dyson." Anastasia looks Brian over before smiling softly and speaking in English.
"So, you are the son of FBI Agent Thomas Dyson?"
"I am, ma'am." Next thing he knows, Anastasia's arms are wrapped around him.
"I am so sorry for your loss. As was my late Father." Upon ending the hug and seeing him blink, Anastasia goes on. "I went to visit him in prison when I heard about it. I told him what had happened and he was saddened by it. He considered your Father to be worthy adversary and hoped to meet him under better circumstances. He may not have had the loyalty Father approved of, but he had loyalty nonetheless. But, I'm sure you didn't come to hear condolences from someone you'd never met before."
"Not really. Though I don't mind. After all, that was the most sincere I've heard from anyone yet." Looking over at Nikita before back to Anastasia, he adds, "I accept. I'd like to ask permission to marry your daughter." Anastasia's eyes tear lightly, with her lips trembling before going into a smile. Nikita lets out a soft gasp before sobbing gently. "Nik? You okay?"
"I'm okay." Smiling happily, Nikita looks toward Anastasia. "Mom? Can we talk?"
"Sure, Nikita. What about?"
"A man named Vladimir Karpovskiva." Brian's reply gets Anastasia's eyes to fly wide open before she gasps out.
"Where… where did you hear that name?" Brian holds up two CDs, with Nikita frowning. "Nikita?"
"Mother, please. Brian and I have no time to waste. Vladimir Karpovskiva confessed to killing Brian's Father while Agent Dyson was in the process of saving the life of Brian's adopted sister."
"Adopted… Brian, you…"
"Nikita and I only just found out ourselves. I had no idea Dad had started an adoption process."
"Do you have many details of her?"
"All we know is she's named Lisa. African-American, two years older than me. With warm brown eyes and cute as a button according to Dad's description of her on the microcassette. By now, she's bound to be a knockout like Nikita." Nikita blushes beet red while smiling.
"You're so sweet, Brian!"
"Only for you, Nik." Shaking his head, Brian goes on. "But we can find out about her later. When we get done in New York." Nikita nods at his words before Anastasia nods.
"Very well. Vladimir Karpovskiva was Spetsnaz before he was recruited by GRU. Two years later, he came to Father's attention and became part of the Kamenev mafiya. His hobby was customizing guns. Nikita's Makarov, for instance, is one such customization."
"It is?" Bringing the Makarov out of her holster, Nikita looks it over before frowning in bafflement. "It looks normal."
"Field strip it, look on the inner part of the slide. You should see Cyrillic in there on the upper portion of inside the slide."
Taking the magazine out, Nikita ejects the chambered round, with Brian catching it. She then field strips it, handing the lower portion of the Makarov to Brian before looking at under the slide. Sure enough, she sees Cyrillic characters.
'For a Princess borne of a Princess'
"Wow. How'd he get the letters to be small enough to fit?"
"It was too technical for me to understand, and I told him as such. He only grinned haplessly, getting me to giggle." Lightly sniffling, she adds, "He gave it to me the day you were born for me to give to you when you were old enough to shoot safely." Nikita can only nod softly as she reassembles it.
"I got this when I turned 8 years old. While Brian got his while he was 7."
"I see. Brian?"
"Coming right up." Bringing his snub-nose up, he pops out the cylinder and ejects the rounds from it before handing it to Anastasia.
"Smith and Wesson 36 revolver, 2 inch barrel, five shots, chambered for .38 Special. Your Father chose a fine gun for you to protect yourself and others with." Smile on her face, Anastasia hands it back to Brian and watches him reload it before putting it back into place. "Yet I can't help but feel you have another weapon in regards to your Section-2 duties."
"You feel correctly, ma'am." Bringing his Baby Eagle out, he ejects the magazine, ejects the round in the barrel and hands it to a smirking Anastasia.
"I see you have acquired your Father's excellent taste in firearms. Magnum Research Baby Eagle, chambered in 9mm. Another fine gun. Nikita, you should consider doing what Brian does." Nikita, however, can only snicker before shaking her head.
"I'm fine with the Makarov, Mother. But we're getting off track again. How do you know so much about the killer of Brian's Father?" At Anastasia's uneasy expression, Nikita switches to Russian. "Mother, please. It's important. How is he connected to you and why did he customize the Makarov for you to give me?" Anastasia sighs in defeat before nodding. Giving her reply in Russian.
"I've dreaded this day for years now. Nikita, the reason I never told you about your Father is not because I was ashamed of the circumstances of your birth. It was to keep you from seeking him out."
"Mother?"
"Nikita, Vladimir Karpovskiva's your Father."
"What happened between you, Mother? Why'd he leave? Didn't he want to be with us?" Nikita's tone is filled with a mix of anger and sorrow, causing Brian to go to her side.
"It wasn't like that at all. When your Grandfather learned of our 'liaison' together, he went ballistic. Of course, he suspected as much three days after you were born. Vladimir being soft and tender toward you was one of them."
"He expelled him from the family, didn't he?"
"Yes. Even more, he put out a contract on him. To be effective only should Vladimir attempt contact with me. Or vice versa. It was five years later when your Grandfather was arrested by Agent Dyson on racketeering, murder and witness intimidation charges. I wanted so desperately to contact him upon Father's arrest, but I learned a harsh truth about contracts. Even if the one that put out the contract's incarcerated or deceased, the contract is still active."
"So, when Brian's Father died, it was by Father's hands." Nikita looks over at Brian and sighs sadly. "He's not going to take it well, I think."
"I think you'll be surprised, Nik." Nikita and Anastasia's eyes both bulge out at Brian's voice before they turn and see him. A sheepish grin on his face. "Sorry. But I thought I'd surprise you by telling you I'm fluent in Russian along with English and Japanese." Nikita and Anastasia have only one reply.
"YOU DIRTY RAT!"
Yet they can't help giggling at his grin. Nikita holds him tightly while Anastasia just giggles while shaking her head. Feeling the urge to be wicked herself, Anastasia clears her throat before speaking again in English.
"So, how soon can I expect grandchildren? I'd like to know that the Kamenev mafiya will go on after I'm gone." All of a sudden, the mirth and merriment ends. Causing Anastasia to feel uneasy. "Nikita?"
"Mother, I've something you need to hear."
With Brian holding her hand, Nikita tells her everything. With Anastasia shaking her head in disbelief, yet knowing full well that Nikita's serious in her intent. Along with the lengths she went to and her failed suicide attempt, which gets a horrified gasp from Anastasia. Next thing she knows, Nikita finishes.
"Mother, I love you. Please don't doubt that. But… I don't feel the mafiya lifestyle is for me, or any children I have. You have no idea how much BS I had to put up with in college. Any time they heard my last name, they'd shirk away in fear or…"
"Ask you if they can join the family." At Nikita's nod, Anastasia can only sigh. "I understand. It must've annoyed you to no end to go through all that."
"It did. I wanted to find my own way in life. Even if it meant being disowned by you."
"Oh, Nikita. I'd never cast you away. Not even if you'd gone lesbian or gotten pregnant at sixteen." Feeling playful, Anastasia asks, "Did you do either?"
"Mother!" Her face beet red, Nikita manages to get out, "Before I met Max Jr or even Brian…"
"I know, Nikita. I know. But your Mother's just trying to have a little fun." Sighing, Anastasia nods, "We all have to find our own ways in life. Whether in the mafiya or not. Your late Grandfather never thought about it. He expected me to carry on the line, and my descendants to do the same. But I saw you watching the television depicting court procedures and how your eyes would light up any time the case of the prosecution was proven. It was then when I realized while my way of life suited me just fine, it might not suit you." Hugging Nikita strongly, she whispers in Russian to her.
"I will always love you, my daughter. Much like I look forward to seeing my first grandchild in your arms." Nikita's eyes well with tears before she sniffles.
"I will always love you too, Mother. And I look forward to you meeting your first grandchild." Ending the hug, Nikita adds, "We'll keep in touch, Mother."
"I look forward to it, Nikita." Concerned, she asks, "Do you think you'll have enough fuel for your next leg?"
"I doubt it. I think we were almost on fumes. I'll check with Piotr." With that, Nikita goes up into the plane, leaving Anastasia with Brian. In English, laced with Siberian-cold tones, she speaks.
"Treat my daughter right, or you'll wish you'd never met my daughter or myself, Agent Brian Dyson, Section-2 of NERV." Barely able to suppress the urge to gulp, Brian nods once.
"I understand, ma'am." Next thing he knows, Anastasia smiles widely before speaking again.
"I hope you find your adopted sister, much like I hope to be able to meet her."
"As do I, ma'am." Nikita then comes back down the steps, grin on her face.
"According to Piotr's calculations, we'll need to refuel to have enough fuel to reach JFK in NYC. But we'd be close to being on fumes again when we land." Brian gives a nod and, wanting to help, speaks up in Russian.
"I'll make the arrangements." With that, Brian walks toward a fuel truck on the tarmac five feet away and flashes his Section-2 ID before speaking again in Russian. "That Cessna Citation needs to be refueled before departure. Main tanks and auxiliary. It's NERV critical that it be done in twenty-five minutes."
That in itself gets the refuel crew to get to work. Nikita and Anastasia both can't help but be impressed by how quickly Brian got them to move. As he walks back toward them, an amused Anastasia can't help but be curious.
"So, what'd you say to them to get such a response?" Surprised by her query in English, Brian shakes it off before grinning.
"Oh, I told them the plane needs to be refueled in twenty-five minutes. That it was NERV critical." Nikita can't help but start giggling while Anastasia smirks.
"Had he met you, Father would've wanted you in the family as you think like a mobster."
"Um, not really. See, under Section-2 regulations, if anything a Section-2 Agent learns could have ramifications for NERV as a whole, that Agent has the authority to classify it as NERV critical."
"But, we're going to New York to find Cochrane, my Father and hopefully your sister. How can it be NERV critical?"
"It's not." Shrugging, he adds, "But I felt a little NERV influence couldn't hurt."
"Oh Brian!" Nikita giggles still while shaking her head. "I'm becoming a bad influence on you!"
"Nope. It's just the way NERV works. I just hope we find Cochrane and can take him alive."
"Who's Cochrane?" Anastasia's query gets both to look at each other before back to her. With Brian explaining what they'd found so far. Once he's done, an angered Anastasia spits on the ground in fury. "I dislike those with no loyalty, of any kind! Brian, your Father, God bless and rest his soul, did his duty and held true to it while protecting an innocent. Cochrane, on the other hand… I pray you find him before the contract on him goes effective."
"How much time can you give us until it does?" Anastasia smirks at Brian's question, with Nikita sharing her Mother's smirk.
"I can give you 72 hours post departure from here before the contract goes effective."
"You're on! What're the stakes?"
"You get to Cochrane first, along with succeed in taking Vladimir alive, I will put my entire fortune into a college fund for any children you and Nikita have. Along with any children your sister may have. Along with come visit you all wherever you may live."
"Okay. The contract?"
"Easy. College funds for the children. With you, Nikita, your sister and her spouse, should she have one, coming to visit me every now and then with your children." Biting her lip softly, she adds, "It'd be nice to see Vladimir again, but with the circumstances as they are…"
"I might have a way around that, if you'd like me to try." Brian's words get a nod from Anastasia before she hugs him solidly. With Brian returning the hug.
Five minutes later, refuel is complete and Brian and Nikita are re-boarding the plane. Anastasia standing tall and regal even as she has tears in her eyes. Watching as the Cessna Citation takes to the air, Anastasia nods softly before uttering a prayer in Russian.
"May you find your answers, survive, marry well and have many beautiful children together." Behind her, a long black Mercedes-Benz limousine wheels silently to a stop. Turning toward it, she opens the door and steps in. Closing the door solidly, she says, "Drive."
"Yes, Lady Kamenev." As the chauffeur drives, he looks up in the mirror and notices her expression. "Is everything alright, Lady Kamenev?"
"Only partly, Mischa. I learned my daughter doesn't want any association of any kind with the mafiya lifestyle. Yet, I can't help but feel proud she wants to find her own path in life."
"Ah yes. The trials and tribulations of young people as they grow up. I saw the young man she was in the company of."
"I see. Your opinion of him?"
"He seems very nice, and he's quite taken with her. And she with him. I approve." Anastasia can only grin before nodding herself.
"As do I. Though I'd never thought I'd live to see the possibility of having the son of a Lawman as an in-Law. Much like I'm sure that if he'd lived to see this day, Tom Dyson would be in disbelief of having an outlaw as an in-Law."
"Lady Kamenev, if I may be blunt, Miss Kamenev isn't really an outlaw just because she's related to an outlaw family." Rolling his eyes, Mischa adds, "Quite frankly, however, her antics did have me wondering at times as to what she was scheming."
"You and I both, Mischa. You and I both."
As she thinks about what Nikita had done, all if only in order to be disowned by her, Anastasia can only start to laugh. Her laughter soon becomes so raucous, she feels the car swerving. Along with hearing Mischa laugh. Amused, Anastasia calms her laughter down before sighing.
"I don't think I ever heard you laugh, Mischa. Not once in your years of service to myself."
"It happens, but not often, Lady Kamenev."
"Quite frankly, Mischa, it doesn't happen enough. How much longer before we reach the compound?"
"Another fifteen minutes at present speed, Lady Kamenev."
"Let's make a stop and rent some comedies, Mischa."
"Yes, Lady Kamenev." Somehow, Anastasia can tell Mischa has an eager smile on his face. Smiling herself, she sighs softly while looking out the window.
'My daughter, you may not be meant for the world of crime, but you're meant for something.'
(NYC; JFK International Airport perimeter fence; same time)
"Okay. I got hold of the flight information. The red 747 there is going to Japan. Once you're feet dry over Japan, you're to jump out and glide down to the ground. Any questions?"
"Yeah. What about fuel concerns? Those big birds do burn up lots of fuel."
"Not with the current engines on these planes. They're almost practically sippers compared to their previous versions." Nodding, both figures scramble under the fence and race across the tarmac. Somehow, they're able to avoid being spotted as they reach the plane and scramble up into the cargo hold. Turning away from the fence, the first man makes his way back to the sedan they'd stolen that morning.
"Now to get some attention and kill a cop or two."
(Streets of NYC; seventeen minutes later)
As he drives along his beat, UNP-NY Officer Garrett Andrews shakes his head, trying to clear it from the 'buzzing' he'd just been subjected to six hours ago.
'Damn his ass! Doesn't he even think "buzzing" people repeatedly will damage them?' Out of the corner of his left eye, he sees a light blue sedan run a red light without even trying to stop. As it crosses in front of him, Andrews shakes his head and smirks.
"Not in my town, homes." Turning on his lights, he pulls after the vehicle. When the vehicle pulls to the side of the street, he readies his book while calling in. "This is UNP-NY 6985, calling in a pullover on a red runner. Facing East at Hershing and Fifth Ave. Light blue sedan, license number Juliet, Golf, Uniform, Five, Eight, Seven."
"10-4, 6985. Red runner, light blue sedan, plate number Juliet, Golf, Uniform, Five, Eight, Seven. Facing East at Hershing and Fifth Ave." Two minutes later, the radio squawks back with, "6985, be advised the plates are non-existent. Do you require backup?"
"10-4 on that. See if you can get 5585 and 6657 to me."
"10-4, 6985. 5585, 6657, what are your locations?"
"5585, I'm ten blocks away from the North."
"6657, I'm six blocks out from the South."
"10-4. I'll make contact and keep my mike open." Turning on his cruiser's camera, and setting it to 'record', he exits the cruiser and steps toward the sedan. Seeing the window down, he looks around and sees a transient wearing a floppy hat asleep on the ground. Turning back to the driver, he begins.
"Hello, I'd like to see your license, registration and proof of insurance, please."
"But of course, Officer." At the accent, Andrews arches his right eyebrow, only to feel himself falling to the ground from an impact from behind. "Right there it is, Officer." Andrews struggles with getting back up, only to see the 'transient' with his service weapon in hand.
'Aw shit.' Looking back up toward the driver, he blinks until recognizing who it is.
"Frederick Earl Cochrane, Chief Inspector for Interpol, out of Tokyo-2. Currently wanted by Interpol for suspicion of multiple child murders in the wake of Second Impact. Also implicated in organizing the murder of FBI Agent Tom Dyson by an unknown party."
"Very good. You've done your homework on me. I'm impressed." The 'transient' shakes their head before pulling their hat off. Revealing a feminine face with long curly hair.
"You really should've let it slide, Officer."
"Enough, Evelyn. The young Officer was doing his duty to preserve the safety of innocent motorists. How I envy you young idealistic types. You remind me of myself when I was a wet behind the ears rookie. Now you know me for what I am and yet you bravely face me."
"Not really. You're on the hot sheets. But, I'd guess it's moot now. Unless we can work something out." Cochrane only smiles congenially before motioning for Andrews' sidearm. Holding it in a standard grip, Cochrane puts it to the side of Andrews' head.
"Relax, Officer. You're off duty now."
BANG
"AAARRRGGGHHH!" Clutching his right shoulder as Andrews' weapon falls to the ground, Cochrane grits out, "Scatter! We'll meet back at the warehouse!" As the woman he'd called 'Evelyn' nods, Cochrane looks back down at Andrews and smirks. "You got lucky, my boy. But we'll meet again."
With that, Cochrane drives away, leaving a stunned Andrews behind. The sedan turns a corner just as red and white lights become visible to his eyes, as does the plate. Getting Andrews to smile widely. After 5585 slides to a stop, Danny gets out and checks on him.
"You okay?"
"'S'all good. I go nighty-night now." Andrews then faints straight away, causing Danny to roll his eyes.
"How you made it through Academy I'll never figure out." Next thing he knows, Lisa's cruiser comes to a stop adjacent to his. Opening the door and getting out, Lisa only has one thing to ask.
"He okay?"
"Yeah. He just passed out soon as I pulled up." Looking around and frowning, he says, "But I didn't see the car he pulled over. You?"
"Nope. Think he had his recorder going?"
"You kidding me? This egomaniac lives to get himself on film." Lisa can only giggle in agreement as Danny opens the door to Andrews' cruiser. Upon seeing the screen, he nods and grins. "It's running. We'll stay with him until backup gets here, along with Forensics."
"If we can play it back, we can get an idea of where it's going."
"Good point." Hitting rewind, he brings the screen out for Lisa so she can see in case he misses anything. Unknown to either one of them, a man has them in his scope's sights. With his finger away from the trigger. Content only to watch, he then gasps at the young woman's appearance before grinning.
"So, you sort of followed in the footsteps of your late 'Father'. Most excellent, little one." With that, Vladimir Karpovskiva thinks back to that day.
(30 Sep 2000; LA)
As the man that hired him raced after the child, Vladimir walked up to the Federal Agent he'd felled. The Agent must've heard his footsteps, as the Agent turned as best he could before gritting his teeth in agony.
"I suppose you're the one that shot me."
"I am. You should not move so much as it will aggravate your wound further." Upon seeing the Agent blink, Vladimir chuckled. "I shot you in a non-vital area for one reason. To talk."
"Okay. I'll bite. What do you want to talk about?"
"The way you stood by that little homeless girl. It's the way a Father would his child. Yet, she's not related to you given your difference in skin color."
"I just adopted her. My son doesn't even know about her. I was supposed to take her home with me after work today." Grinning, the Agent said, "Lisa always said she wanted a little brother."
"Lisa is her name? Beautiful name."
"Yeah. But I still can't believe… Cochrane is the killer of all those children? Why?"
"I know not. Do you wish for me to protect her? To make up for what I'd done?"
"I'd like to myself, but I don't think I've much longer to live. Especially if Cochrane comes back looking for information as to where he can find her. Man, that little girl of mine can run."
"I don't think I like what you're saying, Agent…"
"Dyson. Tom Dyson, FBI." Smiling weakly up at his shooter, Dyson asked, "You?"
"Vladimir Karpovskiva, formerly of Kamenev mafiya family."
"A former Kamenev employee, huh? What are the odds? I took down your former boss and I get taken down by you." Dyson let out a soft chuckle, with Vladimir chuckling softly as well.
"I must admit, I never consider the odds when I'm doing my job. Much like the reason I shot you in a non-vital area. Not only did I wish to talk, I also go by the rule of 'No family men' when I take a hit. The client lied to me. I won't forgive that." Gingerly tilting Dyson's body upward, Vladimir pressed a pressure bandage onto his back. "So don't speak in such a maudlin manner. I will protect her in your stead while you recover."
"No. I can't recover. Cochrane will come back for the information I'm about to give you." Vladimir blinked before Dyson gritted out, "That's right. I want you to end me. Cochrane can't ever learn where she can be found."
"What makes you so certain he'll come back?" Dyson didn't say anything. He just slipped a piece of paper and a microcassette recorder into Vladimir's pocket before grabbing his gun hand. Getting an idea of Dyson's intent, Vladimir asked, "You are certain?"
"I am. That thing's a single shot. Reload and put one into my head. He'll likely want to use a truth serum straight away." Vladimir can only nod numbly as he did what Dyson said. Reloading the M.A.B., he put it against Dyson's head. He then saw Dyson close his eyes, smile and heard him say, "Good-bye, Brian and Lisa." Vladimir pulled the trigger, regret in his heart.
"Rest in peace, Comrade Father."
"NO!" Cochrane's voice as he walked back to the scene got a snarl from Vladimir. "Don't snarl at me, you stupid Russian parasite! I need to find where that homeless waif is!" Ejecting the round, Vladimir made it a point to look right at Cochrane as he reloaded.
"You lied to me about this man not having a family. I don't take well to those that lie to me about my marks or those that break my rules. You're both."
"Why would you care? You have no family yourself as far as I know." Next thing Cochrane knew, Vladimir pulled the trigger and the round flew into the pavement in front of his feet. In a fury, Cochrane snarled at Vladimir. "You psycho! You shot at me!"
"No. If I had shot at you, you'd be dead. Consider it a warning shot of sorts." Ejecting the spent round, he loaded a fresh one and chambered it before aiming at Cochrane. "Our business is concluded. You can keep your money as I want no money from a lying snake like you. I would so love to shoot and kill you where you stand for violating my First Rule. But my Second Rule won't allow it. So, unless you want me to break another one of my Rules, just start walking."
"Fine. Have it your way. As agreed, however, you're supposed to injure me, I believe, to make my story credible." Vladimir's vicious grin couldn't help but get Cochrane to gulp. "It's not going to hurt, is it?"
"No need to worry. It'll be very painless." Slipping a set of brass knuckles onto his hand, Vladimir drew his arm back. "I won't even feel a thing."
WHAM
As Cochrane stumbled backward, his nose broken, Vladimir started walking away from the scene. Just as he turned a corner, Police and Medical units arrived.
(One hour later; Roman Catholic Church)
Seeking solace, Vladimir made his way through the pews before heading toward the confessional. Going into the far right hand side, he waited until the cover opened.
"Bless me, Father, for I have sinned."
"How long has it been since your last confession, my son?"
"On the outside, sixteen weeks."
"What was your sin, my son?"
"I killed a man. A family man, at that."
"Describe the circumstances to me, my son." At that, Vladimir told the man every detail of what'd happened. When he was done, the man could only tell him, "What had happened was quite egregious."
"I know, Father. What can I do to repent or at least make things right?"
"You can only try to repent by doing what he wished. Protect her as best you can and seek to right your wrong through the man's blood relations and the Court system. For now, however, seventeen 'Hail Mary's and endless prayer. I pray you find absolution, my son, as I cannot grant you such. Only the Heavenly Father can."
"I understand, Father."
(Two hours later)
Looking over the paper Dyson had slipped into his pocket, Vladimir nodded. Walking down the desolate alleyway, he kept his footsteps light so he could hear the breathing of a child. Sure enough, he heard soft sobbing coming from behind a closed door. Standing to the side of the doorway, he cleared his throat.
"It's safe to come out. I'm alone." At hearing breathing quicken, Vladimir could only grin. "If I had wanted to hurt you, I'd have done it and walked away by now." The door softly popped open, allowing Vladimir to see chocolate brown skin and warm brown eyes with tears coming out of them.
"Daddy's dead, isn't he?"
"He is. He gave his life to keep you safe. In his stead, I'll do the same."
"Why? I'm a nobody."
"He didn't think so. Much to the point of adopting you." Grinning softly, he added, "He looked forward to you meeting your new little brother, too." The door opened all the way and Vladimir felt a collision against his midsection. Upon feeling the girl shaking in sobs, he wrapped his arms around her.
"What'll happen now? Daddy's dead and I don't know where my brother is." Starting to lightly hit him in his midsection, she lightly whispered out, "You shot the wrong person. Why didn't you shoot him instead of my Daddy?"
'I wonder that myself.' Looking down at her, he saw her looking up at him with tear streaked eyes before bringing out a handkerchief. "Come now, dry your eyes. Can't have you traveling looking like that."
"Traveling where?" Vladimir only smiled softly before taking her out of the alleyway.
(Present day; NYC)
Snapping out of it, Vladimir looks through the scope, hoping to see the young woman again. He does, only to see her and a contingent of Officers making a beeline on foot toward the building he's in.
"Crap. I was so in my remembering, I lost track of time."
Quickly abandoning his nest, he makes his way out the door and closes it. Making his way through the hallway, he turns the corner in time to avoid being spotted by the Officers. He then hears the apartment door crash open and the Officers yelling.
"UNITED NATIONS POLICE!" Upon not seeing him, a feminine voice gives the order.
"SEARCH EVERY APARTMENT! BE RUTHLESS YET TACTFUL IF YOU HAVE TO, BUT I WANT THE SHOOTER FOUND!" Making his way down the staircase, he hears footsteps coming his way and moves to the side if only to give the Officers space to move. Only for one of them to stop in front of him.
"What apartment are you in?"
"Apartment 314, Officer." Bringing up his keycard, Vladimir grins and says, "I only just moved in myself."
"Okay. Let's go guys. Kinsey's waiting for us." As the Officers move up past him, Vladimir can only shake his head at how lax Police procedures had gotten to be.
'They're making this too easy for me to slip away from them.' Dropping the card onto the floor, he mentally adds, 'Can't help but feel a little sorry for them.'
Meanwhile, as they make their way along the floor, the Officers go past 314, only to hear Kinsey's voice.
"Check that apartment, rookie! Leave no apartment checked!"
"We saw the tenant of 314 already, Officer Kinsey." Her eyes light up at the number before she smirks.
"That a fact, Jughead?" Knocking on the door, she hears the locks opening, revealing a pudgy Asian male. "Mr Sakamiya, good evening."
"Officer Kinsey, how do you fare today?"
"I'm faring well. You?"
"Considering I don't leave my apartment unless it's for grocery shopping or just to take my daily walk. But I can't seem to find my keycard."
"Oh? When's the last time you saw it?"
"This morning, when I got back from shopping. A very nice man helped me get inside. Oh my. He must've kept my card by mistake!"
"Do you recall what apartment he was in?"
"Not right off hand, I'm afraid." Shaking his head, Mr Sakamiya asks, "How's your romance going?"
"It's going well. Danny says 'hello', by the way." Curious, she asks, "Do you recall the man that helped you?"
"Certainly. About 6'5", Caucasian, slender build, brown stubby hair, brown eyes and had a Russian accent." Kinking his head to the side, he adds, "He also had a long case of sorts with him. It looked like a guitar case, only not the usual type."
"Okay, Mr Sakamiya. We'll put in a report about your missing card."
"Officer Kinsey!" A young Officer, fresh out of the Academy, runs up to her, a keycard in hand. "Our suspect may have dropped this. I found it in the staircase just now."
"I see, rookie. What's the number on the card?"
"314, Officer Kinsey. Shall I bag it for evidence?"
"Nah. Just dust for prints before giving it back to Mr Sakamiya here."
"I see no real problem with that. Perhaps I can tell him the story about how a man had hired me to watch over his son. But had apparently changed his mind. Quite odd, really."
"I don't doubt that. Miller, get to it. I want that card back in Mr Sakamiya's hands five minutes ago."
"Yes, Officer Kinsey. Mr Sakamiya, mind if I borrow your table, sir?"
"Not at all, my boy. Not at all." As Miller goes in, the man adds, "While you work, I'll tell you the story."
"Cool."
(Two hours later; Kamenev Cessna Citation)
Looking over the report on the death of his Father, Brian frowns in consternation. Only to slightly start when a nude Nikita hugs him from behind.
"Hey, you're missing out on getting more 'miles', sweetie." Brian can only nod before closing the file back. Only for Nikita to snatch it up and open it again. "But I'm sure you've a pretty good reason for it."
"Matter of fact, I've been doing some thinking about your Dad."
"Oh? How so?"
"I did a little checking on him while you slept. Born in the old Soviet suburb of Khabarovsk, Vladimir Karpovskiva became a pistol champion for the Russian shooting team at fifteen years old. An expert marksman, no less. Now, why would an expert marksman shoot a man two times when it's only supposed to take one bullet in the head?"
Upon seeing her blink, he goes on. "The first bullet into Dad was in a non-vital area in his back. Even more, they noted a pressure bandage over the wound. He would have been laid up after surgery and gone through rehab. If it was Vladimir that pulled the trigger, then why shoot him in a non-vital area?"
"And since he was Spetsnaz, he was adept with treating battlefield injuries. Shooting him with a target pistol, with how accurate it was, then he must've wanted to… talk to your Father. But, why?"
"I've got a hunch, and it starts with 'C'."
"Cochrane. Your sister! Father did say your Father died saving her life that day." Frowning, she asks, "But, why would your Father choose that?"
"I've been thinking about that. If I was in Cochrane's shoes, and I wanted information, where would I get it from?"
"Your Father. He must've figured Cochrane would go back at some point. He chose ending his life to avoid giving Cochrane information!" Brian silently nods as Nikita pieces it together. "Once Cochrane had gotten the information he wanted, your Father would've been a liability that he couldn't afford. Also, since…"
"Dad saw Cochrane's face, it would've been necessary if Cochrane wanted to keep his secret intact." Clenching his fist, Brian adds, "There were four victims that day, not just one. Dad, myself, Lisa and your Dad. Dad at Cochrane's instruction, myself when Dad died, Lisa when Dad died protecting her and your Dad for the lie Cochrane told him."
Nikita goes to in front of him and straddles him. Her naked body soft and supple to the touch, Brian softly kisses her. With Nikita returning the kiss in gusto. Within seconds, Brian strips himself nude and impales himself into Nikita. As she holds him tightly to her, Nikita starts moaning until she feels his lips on her left nipple. Feeling him licking and suckling on her, she smiles as she holds his head in place.
'I can hardly wait to do this with a baby.' Next thing she knows, she feels his seed flowing into her womb. 'Of course, with how often we're fucking, I could very well be with child right now!'
(Tokyo-3; Ikari/Takamiya apartment; same time)
"You're kidding me! Cochrane! Frederick Earl 'Fuck Everybody' Cochrane? A killer?"
"That's right, Shinji."
"Somehow, I know I should be surprised, but I can't help not being such, Berto."
"It seems he'd been suspected in a rash of international child murders by slain FBI Agent Tom Dyson. Even more, he ordered a hit on the same Agent. The hit was done by a man named Vladimir Karpovskiva. Former Spetsnaz, GRU and connected to the Kamenev mafiya family according to what our sats picked up." Curious, Rits pipes in.
"Connected in what way, Berto?"
"Prepare for a shock, Rits. Nikita's birth Father was Vladimir Karpovskiva. But apparently, Dmitri Kamenev didn't approve of the relationship between Vladimir and Anastasia. Ever since then, he's been a freelance hit-man. But it gets crazier."
"I don't doubt that, Berto." Shinji grins widely, with Rits wearing the same grin, as he asks, "What about the situation at the UN?"
"I'll let Josh fill you in."
"Shinji, there's reason to believe the thieves may go after Professor Kirishima or even Mana to get the missing details. That'll be your end. Kat and I'll help the UNP track down Cochrane as he'd attempted to murder a UNP Officer that pulled him over. Possibly in retaliation for what'd happened."
"Got it." Before Shinji can end contact, Rits jumps in.
"I'd like to get in on it before I put my 'Dragonette' suit away, Josh. My baby bump won't be visible for another month or two, so I'll be able to fit in it."
"You sure, Rits?"
"I'm sure, Josh. Besides, I'd always wanted to meet the people that created the N-2 devices. Who knows when I'll be able to do so again?"
"It's Shinji's call. But if he says 'yes', be extra careful. It's not just your life anymore. If he says 'no', however…"
"I know, Josh." Smiling as she strokes her belly, Rits murmurs, "I will respect his verdict. I just want to be able to help Shinji any way I can. Even if it's just once as Dragonette before I get to be too big to fit in my suit."
"You? Too big? Never." At Rits' blush, Shinji kisses her lips, with Rits returning it. Berto then clears his throat before speaking again.
"I agree, Rits. We'll talk to you later and let you two lovebirds be." With that, contact ends and Shinji softly pecks Rits' head. Getting a soft coo from her.
"Much as I want to keep you out of harm's way, it'd be a fool's task." Putting his hands onto her belly, he whispers, "You can come with me, but no flying in the 'Sparrow' for you until after the baby's born."
"How will we get there, then?"
"By ground in the car. We leave after you get changed, we get there in thirty minutes. You'll have to stay close to me, though, when we leave via balcony. Otherwise, you'll be seen easily."
"Okay. And what about the thieves? If they're dead set on getting Professor Kirishima and his daughter…"
"I thought about that and can only think of two options. The first one would be tactically safer for them and the other I'm loath to use. Both of which have downsides but have the best chances of success."
"Relocation and using them as bait to catch the thieves. Relocating them would cause the thieves to go further underground than they already are and using them as bait could very well enable the thieves to successfully activate the other device. Damned if you do, damned if you don't."
"Yeah." Getting up from the couch, Rits behind him, he goes to the closet and opens the door. Reaching in, he brings out a small case. "If they go with the latter, this case has the means to track them. But the range is very limited."
"We'll have to hope the thieves have the other prototype in hand, then." Disrobing, revealing her nude body to Shinji, she reaches into the closet as well and brings out her 'Dragonette' suit and helmet. Feeling Shinji's eyes on her body, Rits can't help but giggle. "Like what you see?"
"I don't like it. I love it. Think I'll do a nude sculpture of you when you're seven months along."
"Oh, behave." Yet Rits can't help but glow happily as she slips into her suit. Once she gets her body covered, she asks, "Care to zip me up, Shinji?"
"Sure." Zipping her suit up, he does so slowly, wanting to relish the sight of her back before it fades from sight. As she puts her helmet on, Shinji switches over and says, "Let's go, Dragonette."