Michael woke up to stiff muscles and a head ache. After a few seconds the head ache stopped. Michael glance down an intravenous drip in his arm, and plucked it out. He threw off the sheets of the hospital bed he was in, and saw he was in a paperish hospital gown. His clothes were folded on a chair next to his bed. He put them on, and then stepped out of the room, right into a nurse. "Oh, Mr. Samson, I was just on my way to see if you were up." Michael shrugged, he didn't feel any worry was needed. "Where is Helen Ashton?" The nurse shifted her weight a little, just slightly enough that most people wouldn't notice. Michael wasn't most people. "What's wrong?" The nurse shifted again. "What's wrong?!" The harshness in Michael's voice forced a reaction from the nurse. "You should come to her room, it'll be better for her to tell you." Michael was chilled, he forced his emotions down, deep as he could get them to go. It was a trick he'd learn doing odd jobs, mostly those that didn't sit well with him. It paid when you could shut off emotion. The nurse lead him down the hall, glancing at the numbers on the doors. Finally the nurse opened a door. Helen was lying in bed, wide awake and talking with Mina. Both of them fell silent as he stepped in. Michael let his emotions drift a little closer to the surface. Mina was strange. Another skill Michael had developed was the ability to see subtle moves, hints to what a person was thinking. Mina was fighting back something. Helen was much more pensive. She was good at hiding her emotions, just like him. Michael felt the presence of someone else in the room. He took two steps forward, and out of the corner of his eye saw Dr. Iuzumia. She was an open book, surprise, happiness, and a desperate attempt at self control mottled her features. Michael knew now that the nurse's unease had been at concealing the truth. He grabbed a chair and sat down. With a slow, steady outward breath, Michael relaxed in the chair. Mina practically shivered. Michael had learned that trick from someone he'd worked under. It was an easy way of convincing someone you were annoyed or angry, which usually forced them to let their guard slip. Mina's face now showed a similar pattern to Dr. Iuzumia's. "So, what the big surprise?" The calm, mellow tone of Michael's voice, almost as if he'd known what was going on all along, floated from his mouth. Only Helen wasn't fooled. "Oh, nothing." Michael was impressed. Very few people could keep something from him. Maybe that's why he loved he so much, she was just as clever as he was. "So, Dr. Iuzumia, I assume there must be a medical matter for you to be here, yes?" Even Michael was a little unnerved by the silky, almost serpentine tone of his own voice. The doctor was fighting her every impulse, holding back whatever it was with all her will. His eyes drifted, almost lazily, to Mina. Instantly she clamped her lips tight. His eyebrows popped up, feigning surprise. Helen remained static. Michael could tell she was having fun. "So, are we going to keep at this game until one of these two breaks, or will you tell me?" Finally Helen smiled, a sweet, beautiful smile, which failed utterly to fool him. "Well, spill it." This time Michael wasn't playful or coy, he was blunt, cold, and sharp as a blade. Helen rolled her eyes. "You're no fun at all, sweetie." Michael was actually caught off guard by this one. Helen was sweet, but she liked to avoid those cliché affectionate terms. "No fun, dear? Why, I played your game, didn't I?" Michael was game, he had a big vocabulary. "Yes you did, darling, but I was hoping you'd play a little longer." Helen was really having fun with this. "My love, I'd would've liked to continue the game, but my concern for you quashed my interest in games." This time Michael interspersed some truth with the word play, catching Helen off guard. Her smile faltered, she was touched by his concern. "So, doctor? Will you tell me?" Dr. Iuzumia shook her head. Michael looked at Mina, who shook her head too. "I'm pregnant, Michael." This time, Michael was dumbstruck. All the suave, slick intelligence, the cunning, the games, the subtle trickery, all fell away, and his emotions were laid bare. "P-pregnant?" Helen smiled, this time sincere and loving. "Yes. I guess I shouldn't have to say this, but it is yours." Michael couldn't think, couldn't react. A lump grew in his throat. "I'm going to be, a dad?" Helen smiled again, all her love for him shining through. "Yes, you are."
"Most guys dread stuff like this, you know."
"I know." Helen giggled a little bit. "I guess I'm not like most guys though, huh?"
"No, no you're not, but that's why I love you."
"Wow. I guess your parents aren't going to like me much."
"Like I care. It's not them I care about, it's you." Michael sat up straight, a broad smile pulling at his lips. He let his head flop back on his neck, facing the ceiling, and he allowed a great booming laugh, a laugh of joy and happiness, ring out. His head fell back to his chest. "I suppose if I were a gentleman, I'd ask you to marry me." Both Mina and Dr. Iuzumia gasped. Even Helen was surprised. "M-marry you?" Michael looked up into her beautiful eyes. "What? Am I not good enough for you?" Helen's eyes went wide, and her mouth gaped like a fish's, as she tried to explain her reaction. With a deft motion, he put two fingers to her lips. "I was joking. But still, I don't think it'd be odd, after all, people have been married younger. My parents were married young, for instance." Finally Iuzumia spoke. "Are you kidding me?! You actually want to get married?! My God, most men your age avoid marriage at all costs."
"But I'm not most men, am I?" The doctor fell silent. Mina looked dizzy. "Well, we’ll see what happens.” Michael smiled, looking at Helen. He couldn’t believe it, he was going to be a father. Then a sickening thought slithered into his mind. What if he, or worse yet, Helen, was killed in battle. The thought alone was enough to frighten him to his core. Then it dawned on him, that all he had to do to guarantee her safety was to take on anything that came their way. He was certain, as long as he had Helen and his unborn child to protect, nothing would stand in his way.
A half hour later Helen and Michael walked hand in hand down the halls. Helen already had plans in her head, but Michael's biggest concern wasn't the wedding itself, they had time, and she could take all that she wanted in planning. Michael's concern was a proper engagement, namely a ring. The clever side of his mind kicked in. "Helen, could you go pick up Jana from school? I just remembered, there's something I need to get."
"Sure thing, what is it your going to get?" Michael smiled. "You'll see." Then he ran off. Helen sighed.
Michael jumped on his bike, and turned the key in the ignition. To most people, it seemed to be in perfect condition, but to Michael's ears numerous odd clicks and clacks were decoded, and showed him, in his mind's eye, countless flaws, imperfections that, if left unchecked, would cause further issues. Luckily this was going to be a quick trip, so he didn't need to worry about it. Michael pulled on his helmet, and flipped the visor down. The engine revved, and Michael peeled off. The visor of his helmet misted slightly once he was outside. He looked up at the sky, which was an overcast gray. It was drizzling, tiny spits of rain flecking his skin and clothes. He revved the engine again, and tore off down the street. He’d been planning on proposing to Helen soon enough anyway, this was just the excuse he needed to move up the time table. He threaded through traffic, buzzing by cars. Michael pulled off the main street, turning down a smaller side street. Some more traffic dodging, and he reached the small jewelry shop. He’d gone there once before, almost a week ago, to see if it was still run by the people he’d remembered from his childhood. It was. Michael propped his helmet up on the handlebars of his bike, and stepped inside. “Michael!” Michael smiled at the elderly man who hobbled up to him. “Mr. Halinski, how are you? Is my request ready?” The old man smiled. “Gertrude! Michael’s here! Could you bring it out please?” From the back of the store, Michael heard an old lady yell, “Coming, just give me a moment.” Mr. and Mrs. Halinski had been Michael’s baby sitters when he was young. He used to spend an hour or two each day watching Mr. Halinski work, craft exquisite jewelry with his bare hands. His hands could no longer do that work, but his son had taken over for him, and so the business thrived. Michael had been relived that the Halinskis were still in business, he didn’t know the first thing about jewelry. Mr. Halinski was happy to help Michael, especially when he confessed to what he was looking for. Mrs. Halinski tottered into the room, and gave Michael a small, velvet box. Michael opened it, not so much to see that it had been done to his requests, but to marvel at it’s beauty. It was perfect. He snapped the box shut. Michael paid for the piece of jewelry, and thanked them both. At the door he turned, and said, "I'll let you know the date. I expect you to show, okay?" The old couple both nodded emphatically. The drizzle had turned into a light rain. Michael pulled a thin jacket out of the pack he kept on the bike, and threw it on. "You're fortunate." Michael was startled by the thin young woman who spoke. Her skin was very pale, and she was unnaturally thin, but oddly not emaciated. Her eyes didn't move, and her face was painted with jealousy. "Excuse me?"
"You humans, you're so lucky." Michael felt a chill dance up his spine. "You're a demon aren't you?" The thin woman smiled, showing bizarrely perfect teeth. "You're a perceptive one. Yes, I'm not human, but I'm not just a demon either. I am Envy."
"Envy, one of the seven deadly sins?"
"Yes, yes, that is what your species called us. I always envied you people. The peace of death is denied to us, unless we are killed. The joys of love, compassion, and happiness are alien to us. Forever deprived of the, what's the word, good things in life, we demons are cursed. Not that my brethren see that. This brings me to the point. The time will come when one of your number will face me. I will not show mercy, but know that I do wish to die. I know not who will fight me, but I sense the fight coming. Please, if you find out, ask them, my foe, to grant me the chance to feel gratitude."
"What are you?"
"I'm one of the strongest demons alive, of the eight strongest, to be precise. You will meet my brothers and sisters in due time." Before Michael could ask another question, she was gone. He was unnerved, it wasn't every day you had a civil conversation with a demon. Michael rode home slowly. He mulled over the bizarre conversation. Then he shoved it out of his mind, filing it under things to think about later. As he rode, a thought struck him. He pulled off to the side of the rode, and pulled out his phone. "Helen?" Helen sounded breathless. "Yeah, what is it?"
"Are you okay?"
"Oh, yeah, just fine, just Jana, she wanted to play tag, so..."
"Don't push yourself too hard, you know, the baby."
"I know, I know. Now, what is it, what's up?"
"Well, I was on my way home, and I had a thought."
"Really? Wow, that's great."
"Ha, ha, very funny. Would you hear me out please?"
"Okay, sorry."
"It's alright. Well, I figured we could go out to dinner, and invite everyone, you know, from S3, so we could tell them about the baby."
"Oh, that sounds great. I'll get ready."
"Alright, I'll see you soon. Love you."
"Love you too." Michael hung up and pulled away from the curb. The rain stopped, and the clouds cleared. Michael gave the engine a little more gas, and flew down the road. Michael pulled in the garage. He pulled off his helmet and jacket. He felt his pocket, to reassure himself it was still there. Michael took his time walking the halls. He rounded a corner, and came face to face with Allen. "Hey."
"Hey."
"Look, Allen, I want to apologize. I know I can be cold, and cruel, but, just know, it's not personal."
"I know. I talked with Helen; she told me all about your past. Life's a bitch, ain’t it?"
"Yes. Well, anyway. I wanted to tell you that you're invited to dinner with all of us."
"Us?"
"The six of us pilots and the project heads, Helen and I are taking everyone out to eat."
"Oh, cool. I'll be there."
"Thanks."
"Yeah, thanks." Michael shook hands with Allen, and then Michael got moving. He stepped into his apartment, just in time to get hit in the face with a pillow. "Jana, throw another pillow, and I'll lock you in your room for the rest of the night." His little sister squealed and ran to her room. Helen came around a corner in a towel, and was toweling off her hair. "Sorry. I guess I'm going to have to get used to this parent thing." Michael laughed. "I'm willing to bet our baby will listen to you better than she does. I assume you told her?"
"Yep, I told her." Helen walked to their room, and Michael followed her. "Do you mind?"
"No." Helen giggled coyly. "Keep it in you pants, lover boy. I am already knocked up."
"Like I don't know. Let's just get dressed and let everyone know about the party. Oh, that reminds me; I bumped into Allen on the way home."
"Uh oh. What happened?"
"Nothing, we talked, settled our differences, and I told him about the dinner. Oh, and he told me that you told him about my past. When would you have done that?"
"He visited me in the hospital. He came with Mina. He was there when the doctor told me I was pregnant too. He got really pissed, started bad mouthing you, and swearing up a storm. I damn near beat the shit out of him, but Dr. Iuzumia kept me in bed. It was Shinji who decked him."
"Shinji? You mean our Shinji? Wow, I didn't think he had it in him. Wait, he was there too?"
"Yeah, everyone was."
"Aw, fuck. Then what's the point of this dinner?"
"Well, we can still celebrate, right?"
"Yes, I guess we can. So, Shinji decked Allen."
"Yeah, he was really pissed. Hisana told me Shinji really looks up to you. He envies your courage."
"What is up between those two? Are they a couple or what?"
"Ew, no! They’re brother and sister!"
"What? No way, they have different last names."
"They're twins, who were separated shortly birth, their mother died in childbirth, and their father wasn't exactly around. They were adopted by two different families. It wasn't until they were found by Dr. Iuzumia for project that they even knew about each other. It didn't take long for them to figure it out."
"I see. So, back to the story."
"The whole getting punched thing pissed Allen off even more. Mina tried to hold him back, but he just shoved her off. He squared off with Shinji. Then the major stepped in. I swear, he beat Allen like he was just a baby. Allen didn't stand a chance. I knew the major was tough, but he's on a whole different level from you or Allen."
"He's a professional military man; I'd expect him to be much more skilled and stronger than me."
"Right. Finally Allen chilled out. Then he asked me why I was in love with you."
"What'd you say?"
"I told him the truth. I love you because, when I'm with you, near you, I feel like I am where I'm supposed to be, where God wants’ me to be. Then I told everyone what you told me that morning. Only Professor Hanson was unsurprised, I suppose you told him the whole story already."
"Yeah, it was one of the requirements."
"I thought so. Mina almost threw up, and Allen went all pale. Shinji was kind of dumbstruck too. I couldn't tell what Hisana was thinking though. I don't think I'll ever get her."
"I wouldn't say that. I'm sure you could get along with her if you tried."
“That’s not the point. Anyway, Dr. Iuzumia made everyone leave, except for Mina and herself. Mina had to do a lot of begging too.”
“She was that interested in my reaction, huh?”
“Oh yeah.” Helen stepped out of the closet wearing a long white dress. “What do you think?” Michael made an approving wolf whistle. “Thanks. Just think; in a few months I’m not gonna be able to see my toes. God, I’m not looking forward to this.” Helen laid a hand on her belly, and a contented smile spread across her face. “Then again, maybe I am. Still, I’m not looking forward to all that weight gain.”
“Trust me, no matter how big you get, you’ll still be sexy to me.”
“That’s touching, really, but I wonder if there isn’t a way for me to stay in shape without risking the baby?”
“As the doc, she probably knows. Could you hand me a tie?” Helen tossed a tie at him, which he just barely caught with his pinky. “Thanks. I’m gonna go ahead and take a shower, alright?”
“What do you need okay for? You’re a big boy.” Michael came out of the bathroom a few minutes later, the tie draped over his neck, buttoning up a clean white shirt. His pants were black, and slightly baggy. He finished with the shirt and moved onto the tie. After several attempts, he called to Helen. “Can you help me get this damn thing on?” Helen had to fight back a torrent of laughter as she came around the corner and started to help him. “I just finished calling everyone, and they all said they’d be there.”
“Great. Thanks for the assist.” Michael kissed her suddenly, pulling her to him. They broke apart after a minute. “What was that for?”
“Just because.” She blushed a little. “You’re a real flirt, you know that?”
“Yep, but that’s why you love me, isn’t it?”
“Of course.” She kissed him again, quickly, and then hurried off to Jana’s room. The doorbell rang. Michael, pulling on a jacket that matched his pants, opened it. On the other side was Envy. “You again. What is it now?”
“Just a warning. My brother, Wrath, is going to send a small demon to attack you. Kill it.”
“Like I need you to tell me that.”
“You miss understand. It will attack you outside of your machines. He thinks you are vulnerable in this state, prove him wrong.”
“Why are you helping me?”
“Boredom mostly, and we have a wager on the outcome.”
“We? As in you and Wrath?”
“Not just Wrath and I, all of us. You’ve drawn quiet a lot of attention. Wrath thinks killing you will earn him more honor. He forgets that honor goes to the one with the blood on his hands.”
“You demons are real pieces of work, you know?”
“I do.” Without further word or any theatrics, Envy vanished. Michael closed the door. Helen called from Jana’s room. “Who was it?”
“No one, just a delivery guy with the wrong address.” Michael felt a spasm of guilt with the lie. ‘Why not tell her?’ he though. But then he reminded himself of the item in his pocket, the mission he was on. “Oh, that’s strange.”
“I know.” Michael finished buttoning up his jacket. Helen came out of Jana’s room, followed by Jana herself in a cute little pink dress. Helen suddenly looked concerned. “How are we all going to get to the restaurant? You didn’t tell me which one it was.”
“I assume you told them to meet us at the parking garage?”
“Yes, I did, how did you know?”
“I know you. You went for the simplest solution. Everything will work out, I‘ve got it under control.” A few minutes later, Michael, Helen, and Jana arrived at the garage. Mina, Allen, Shinji, Hisana, Iuzumia, Hanson, and Kalasdozki were all there. Allen raised an eyebrow and aimed his gaze at Michael, who just smiled and nodded. After just a few seconds, a luxurious stretch limousine pulled up. The driver’s window rolled down. “Mr. Samson?”
“That’d be me.” Michael stepped up to the driver’s door. “Do I got this destination right?” Michael peered in through the window. “Yeah, that right. Any trouble finding the place?”
“No, it was easy enough to find. I mean, who in town doesn’t know about this joint. I was just surprised is all. I never imagined someone in here calling for a limo.”
“These are strange times.” Michael turned from the window. “Alright, everybody in.” No one moved. “What?”
“How the hell did you get a limo?” It was Allen who’d spoken. “Didn’t I tell you guys. A little while after I got here, I was finally able to access my inheritance.”
“Inheritance? Why couldn’t you get at it ‘til now?”
“My parent’s lawyer was a thief. He took the money and ran after the gate opened. I finally tracked him down. To make a long story short, he paid for it. Not that he needs money where he is now.”
“You killed him?!”
“What? No, hell no! He’s in prison.” Everyone nodded in unison, which was funny as hell to Michael. Finally, everyone piled in. The limo was very large, easily accommodating all ten of them. Everyone made pleasant conversation on the way. Michael noticed Allen was looking at Hisana a lot. She did look very nice. She had done her hair up in an elegant ponytail. Her pale skin looked very soft. She was wearing a strapless, sparkling blue dress the matched her hair. Lastly, she had left her glasses off, and looked to be wear contact lenses. Michael could finally see that she had brown eyes. Michael spent most of his time, however, looking at Helen and Jana, who were playing a quiet little game of rock-paper-scissors. It suddenly dawned on him that soon enough, in Jana’s place would be a little boy or girl. For the first time, Michael began to wonder if the baby would be a boy or girl. After think about it, he hoped it was a girl, a little angel just like her mother. He shivered at the thought of a son, a second him. He remembered that he hadn’t been the best child. Shinji bumped him in the ribs. "WH-what? I mean, what is it?"
"You okay man? You look kind of distracted."
"Yeah, I'm fine, just thinking." Shinji chuckled. "A little nervous about the dad thing? Can't say I blame you, I'd be scared shitless." This time Hisana ribbed Shinji. "Watch your mouth. I'll not be seen in public and acknowledge you as my brother if you talk like that, understood?"
"Yes, mam." Michael suppressed a laugh. The limo suddenly began to slow, and Michael grabbed a small phone wired into the wall of the limo. This phone ran directly to another next to the driver, who picked up. "Yes, sir?"
"I'm guessing we're almost there?"
"Yes, sir."
"Excellent, thank you." Michael put the phone back into it's socket. A minute later the car pulled to a full stop, and the door to the back seats opened. Three valets stood around the door. Michael stepped out first, and then helped Helen out. "Oh my God! I thought we were going to a restaurant, but not, this restaurant." Michael just smiled. After every one was out, Michael led everyone in. A wire thin man in a tight black suit stood behind a little pedestal. "Hello, welcome to Chez Supreme, the finest restaurant in New Tokyo. How can I help you?" The man had a thin, drawling voice with a French accent. "Hello, I'm Michael Samson, I believe I have reservations for ten?" The stuffy man looked over a list centered on the pedestal. After a moment the man looked up at Michael and said, "I'm sorry I'm not seeing that name on the ledger." At the same time the man made a little gesture with his hand that only Michael could see, indicating the Michael would have to pay the man just to get the table he'd already reserved. Without pause Michael suddenly spoke in rapid French, spouting a chain of words no one else in the group understood, except, apparently, for Professor Hanson, who chuckled softly. The man behind the pedestal spoke back, but his French was no where near a polished a Michael's. After a moment, Michael spoke again, this time with a much more annoyed tone of voice. Helen didn't need to know French to get the gist of what he was saying, "Take us to our table or else!" The thin man finally backed down, grabbed a stack of menus, and led them to a large table. Everyone chose their own seats. Michael looked around, and for his own entertainment, figured the arrangement out in his head. On his left was Jana, and next to her was Shinji. On Shinji's left was Hisana, and Allen claimed the other seat next to her. The major sat himself next to Allen, and Professor Hanson elected to sit on his left. Next, Mina and Dr. Iuzumia sat next to each other, and lastly, on the doctor's left and Michael's right was Helen. The thin man hovered around the table for a second, until Michael said, "Thank you very much." The man flash a glare at Michael, but then smiled and said, "Not at all sir." The man left them alone. For a few minutes everyone looked over the menus. After everyone had decided, Michael signaled to a passing waiter. The waiter courteously took their orders and hurried off. After he was gone, Helen touched Michael's arm to get his attention. "Why didn't you tell me you could speak French? Are you ashamed of it or what?"
"No. I didn't tell you about it, because the story behind it is tied in with some years of my life I'd like to forget."
"Why, what happened?" Michael rolled his eyes. "This is exactly why I didn't tell you before. You always ask."
"Well, are you going to tell me or not."
"I'll tell you later, at home, okay?" Helen pecked him on the cheek. "Okay." The night seemed to speed up to Michael's eyes. Soon enough the food arrived, and everyone abandoned conversation for eating. Helen gave him a taste of the pasta she'd ordered. Jana insisted on having a taste of almost everyone's meals, except for Major Kalasdozki, who understood fully why. The major was fully aware of his frightening stature. After everyone was finished, Michael felt his gut tighten. He slid his hand into his pocket, feeling the velvet box. For a split second, he hesitated. Then his feelings for Helen overcame his uncertainty. "Helen?" Michael took Helen's hands into his own, and stood up, and she stood with him. "W-what is it?" Her face was growing red. Michael held onto her hands as he knelt down on one knee, and then let go of her left hand, and pulled the small velvet box out of his pocket, and held it up to her. "Helen Ashton, will you marry me?" Everyone in the restaurant went silent. Helen's eyes were wide. With a flick of his thumb, the box opened. Inside was a ring. The ring itself was small, the diamond set into it equally so, but, in spite of it's size, it was perfect. The fine details made it more beautiful than any other ring she'd ever seen. A few tears formed in her eyes. For what seemed like eternity, she just stared at the ring. Then her lips trembled, slowly forming words, and finally a sentence. "Yes, I will, I'll marry you!" Relief flooded into Michael's body and his muscles relaxed as he plucked the ring from it's box and slid it onto Helen's left hand ring finger. It was a perfect fit. At the same moment the entire restaurant exploded with applause and cheers. Mina looked ready to pass out. Michael stood up, and Helen jumped into his arms, wrapping her's around his neck and kissing him passionately. He embraced her, holding her in the air. He even heard on of her shoes fall to the floor, but he didn't care. All he cared about was this moment, one of many perfect moment he hoped were yet to come. Finally they broke apart. Michael set her down gently. After he paid the bill, they all left the restaurant. After a slight wait, the limo pulled around and picked them up. On the car ride, Jana fell asleep with her head in her brother's lap. As Michael sat, stroking her hair, he remembered Envy's warning. As the limo pulled to a stop in the garage, Michael woke Jana. After everyone was out, Michael heard a feint, but distinct, snarl. Michael told Helen, Mina, Hisana, Dr. Iuzumia, and Professor Hanson to take Jana and get inside. He tried to convince Shinji, Major Kalasdozki, and Allen to go to, but they stayed. The major pulled to large handguns out of his jacket, and handed one to Allen. "I assume you know how to..."
"Shoot? Of course I do." Allen checked the gun's clip of ammo. All four men tossed their jackets and ties aside. Shinji suddenly seemed to stand taller than before. Michael felt the supernatural energy of his body shift and slide. Another snarl, louder this time. The major also slid out of his shirt. From the corner of his eye, Michael could see the major's chiseled body, a sight much more intimidating than any demon he'd yet seen. Allen slid silently off to one side, moving in the shadows. Shinji turned his head slowly to one side, until a loud crack came from his neck. The demon finally stepped into the light. It stood at twice Michael's height. Three shots rang out from under one of the cars near the demon, and three bullets ripped into its right leg. The demon snarled, and threw a car up into the air. Michael forged a sphere of fire, and hurled it at the creature. An explosion shook the garage, but the demo was unharmed. "Major, I need more space." Michael called to Kalasdozki. "Then we go up. Fusakata, you'll help me cover Samson. DeChevalier regroup with the others. Hopefully this beast's alone." Michael, Shinji, and Kalasdozki turned tail and ran for the ramp to the top of the garage. All the way up Michael was focusing his energy. At the top of the last ramp Shinji and Kalasdozki stopped, and Michael kept moving. The demon was on them in a second. Shinji was fast, able to dodge the demon's every thrust, and the major was strong enough to catch them. At one point the major caught the demon's left arm, and with a brutal motion, broke it over his knee. Shinji landed countless kicks, disorienting the monster. Finally Michael shouted, "Get down!" Both Kalasdozki and Shinji dove out of the way. At the same moment, Michael lifted his arms over his head, a ball of burning light between his hands. Then he brought his arms down, holding them straight, pointing his palms at the demon. "Burn." A pillar of flame burst from his hands. After the flame dissipated, all that was left of the demon was a pile of ash. Michael let his arms drop, and fought against the fatigue that started to weigh him down. Shinji looked normal again. The major holstered his pistol and walked over to Michael. “That’s quite the fireworks display.” Michael spat at the ground. “A fireworks display that’ll turn you to ashes. I doubt you'd want to be in the way." The major shook his head. Michael took a step forward, and almost fell flat on his face, but both Shinji and Kalasdozki braced him. After Shinji helped him for a few more steps, enough of his strength had returned for him to walk unassisted.
"Michael!" Helen nearly knocked Michael to the ground as she ran into his arms. He felt a hundred fold better with her in his arms, and a renewed strength flooded his limbs. Allen handed the major his shirt, jacket, and tie. After redressing in his shirt, the major stepped over to Doctor Iuzumia and Professor Hansen. "Michelle, Jonathan, you've both kept secrets from me, and likely each other."
"Being rather forward today, aren't we Ivan? Yes, I did keep a few things hidden from you and Michelle. I suppose she's kept things from us as well, just as I'm sure you have. The professor spoke in a gentle, joking tone, but the look on his face was anything but playful. "What is it you want to know?"
"Samson, Michael. In the garage he used, well, for lack of a better word, magic."
"I'm sure he did. He did the same thing to that demon just a couple of days ago."
"That was the same thing? I assumed you'd built in a weapon that had achieved that effect."
"Oh no. That was all Michael." Iuzumia butted in. "What is it you wanted to ask me?"
"About Fusakata, Shinji. I noticed he took on a much more aggressive combat style and personality, much more in line with a professional soldier than the timid young man he usually seems to be."
"Yes, I expect so. Shinji, would you like to explain this one?"
"Yes, mam. Major Ivan, I am not an ordinary human. The Shield project isn't just about making weapons to protect people. It's also about making people who can protect themselves. I am, simply put, a super soldier. I have a secondary personality that I can activate at will that allows me to fight at a super human level. While my body is always capable of this, I have conditioned myself to only use my strength and speed when my secondary personality is active." Shinji said all of this in a voice that was not entirely his own. It sounded like his voice, but the tone, somehow, didn't. It was as if someone else was speaking with his voice. The major nodded. He turned back to the doctor. "I assume Asayumi has this same ability?"
"Not exactly. Her secondary personality formed entirely differently from her brother's. We are still working with it." Ivan turned to Hanson. "And Disandes?"
"Yes, she too has magical capabilities, but her's are far less powerful than Michael's, something to do with his direct contact with a demon when he was young." Michael was still holding Helen when he said, "What secrets are you keeping, major?" For a moment the major didn't move. Then his shoulders slumped in resignation. "I suppose you ask because Helen Ashton is carrying your child?"
"Not just that. I care about her, and I'd like to know if she's been forced to do anything she didn't want."
"Michael, It's okay, I accepted that certain things had to be done for me to pilot the White Sword."
"I know you've come to terms with it, but don't I have a right to know?" Helen looked down from his eyes. "Well, major?" Major Kalasdozki turned to face Michael. "Both Ms. Ashton and Mr. DeChevalier have under gone chemical and physical treatments to strengthen their bones, muscles, and internal organs to protect them from the forces applied to their bodies inside the machines."
"Forces? What forces?"
"When the mechs move above a certain speed, the speed increases the g-forces felt by the pilot." Professor Hanson steeped up. "Michael, do you recall when I had you focus your power into you own body in that exercise? That was to the same end. Like wise, Shinji and Hisana have been modified to increase their resistance to g-forces. It was necessary." Michael didn't look pleased. "What about the baby?" Dr. Iuzumia failed to look him in the eyes. "We can't be sure. I don't think the chemicals will effect it, but, we just can't be sure." Michael still didn't look comforted. "Is there any way to be sure?"
"I wish there was, but it's far too early to know one way or another."
"One more question, professor. Will my - abilities - be passed to the baby?" The professor looked away from Michael too. "I can't offer any more facts than Michelle. I just don't know if your power is tied to your genetic code or some other factor." Michael sighed. "Well then, I'll just have to do what any father does, pray for the best." Everyone got a laugh out of the weak joke. "Greetings humans!" The whole group froze, ad their eyes all swung to the source of the voice. A man in a black leather jacket and pants with thick black boots and long black hair stood in the hall a little way down from them. Behind him stood Envy. "Who the hell are you?" Allen asked. "Me? I'm Wrath, mother-fucker! I'm the baddest bad ass of all demons!" Envy coughed behind him. "Then explain why your lackey couldn't kill three humans."
"Oh, fuck off Envy. Just 'cause you won the fuckin' bet don't mean shit."
"Oh, it does mean something. You remember Sin's orders?" Wrath snarled in annoyance. "You tell 'em bitch. I fuckin' hate talking to humans, dumb little shits." Allen had to be held back. Envy stepped up in front of her brother. She adjusted the glasses she was now wearing, and looked levelly at all of them. "My master, our master, is very intrigued by you humans, specifically you." She pointed at Michael. "It has come to his attention that you..." She pointed at Helen, "...are with child. We demons are indiscriminate killers, but we refuse to kill something that has yet to live, a little caveat to our nature. Because of this, our master has decided to give you human's a year' reprieve. In exchange, he wants to fight one of you, namely you, Michael."
"Fight me? The master of all demons wants to fight me?"
"Don't worry, it will be a non-lethal bout, he only wants to test you."
"How will I fight him, in or out of my machine?"
"He requests you fight with your machine." Wrath roared from behind her. "The master doesn't request! He demands!" Envy ran a hand through her hair. "I am telling them what he told me to tell them, nothing more or less. If you have a problem with my words, take it up with him."
"Where? Where will I fight him?" Michael was dead serious. "He wishes to fight out in the large plain west of here that was created by us after the gate opened."
"You mean the graveyard of old New York?"
"Whatever you wish to call it, that is the battlefield he chooses. Do you accept?"
"Yes." Helen pulled Michael closer to her. "No, don't! I don't trust them. He'll kill you."
"If that's what he was after, why go through all this. No, she's telling the truth. I'll fight him. Who knows, I might even put up a good fight."
"My master hopes so." With that final word both Envy and Wrath vanished. Michael felt strange. He knew he should be nervous, but he wasn't. This was his chance to guarantee the safety of Helen and their child.
Chapter 2
The next day Helen moved in with Michael and Jana, and Jana took to calling Helen big sister. Allen was angry just like Helen predicted. "Who do you think you are asshole!?"
"Michael, last I checked."
"Ha, very funny jackass, now, what do you think you're doing with Helen? She's mine!"
"I don't belong to anyone jerk!"
"Bull shit, you were supposed to be with me! That's why you were put in Sword!"
"What are you talking about?"
"You don't get it? Why do you think they put one guy and one girl on each team? They want us to pair up; fall for each other, whatever!"
"Well then it seems like I've ruined their plans." Allen threw a punch at Michael, who dodged and struck back, breaking Allen's nose. Allen staggered, dazed but not stopped. He bellowed in anger and charged Michael, ramming into his gut, driving him into the wall. Michael was winded for a moment. Allen pulled back, smirking, sure he had won. Then Michael moved. Allen less saw the movement as saw the aftermath, where Michael's fist coiled into Allen's abdomen, crushing the wind from his lungs. Michael then spun on the spot, and stopped his hand just short of a lethal blow, a few millimeters from Allen's neck. He was then slapped by Mina, who had watched the whole mess. "C'mon Helen, let's go home." Allen ran after them and tried to jump Michael, but with a busted nose and bruised ribs, Michael had the advantage over him. Michael was careful not to really hurt Allen, just beat him enough to drive the point home. "You had enough?"
"I'll have enough when I've kicked your ass!" Again Michael won. He was about to knock Allen out when her heard Jana yell, "Big brother! Don't hurt him!" Michael froze, and looked down the hall at his little sister, her bright yellow eyes wide with shock at her brother. Michael went numb, his arms and legs like lead weights. Jana ran to her older brother, and at the same time, a doctor and nurse came around the corner. "Oh, there she is!" The doctor strode up to Michael. "Mr. Samson? I'm Dr. Harold." Michael turned slowly, his eyes still locked on his sister. "How?"
"Well, this morning she requested..."
"But, I was told she wouldn't be able to... That she wouldn't be able to handle..."
"I know, I know. I was surprised as you are when she requested the procedure, and even more so when it was a resounding success."
"I'm all better now big brother! But, why where you hurting him?" Jana bobbed her head at Allen.
"Jana."
"Big brother, don't hurt him. He may be dummy, but he doesn't need that much hurt."
"How dare you call me stupid!" Allen lashed out at Jana, but had his hand crushed under Michael's shoe. "I don't care what your grudge is with me, but leave my sister out of it."
"Fu..." Allen was interrupted by Michael's foot in his face. Again Mina struck him across the face. Michael picked his little sister up on his shoulders and walked back to his apartment with the only two women he cared about in the whole world. With the combined salaries of Michael and Helen, their apartment had been spruced up. They had bought a new television, couches, beds, chairs, everything. Even though they could easily afford to eat out every night, Michael still insisted on cooking, and Helen had started learning from him. In school they both stood out as excellent students, even though Michael hadn't attended school in ten years. He confessed to Helen that, according to Professor Hanson, Michael's I.Q. was that of a genius. Helen wasn't a natural genius, but she more than made up for it with her tireless effort. Jana was receiving good grades in school as well, so, as a reward, Michael proposed the three of them go to the local amusement park on the up coming Saturday. Jana was the first one up. After getting dressed, she waited in the living room, just looking at her home. After a few minutes, she got tired of waiting and went to her brother's room. She slowly cracked the door open, and poked her head into the room. She tip-toed up to the edge to her brother's bed. Michael was lying facing the left side of the bed. Jana walked along the right side, looking at her brother's back. She could see Helen's slim arm lying on top of her brother. Jana tugged slightly at the sheets on the bed. Michael shifted a little, but didn't wake up. Jana tugged harder. Michael still didn't wake up, but Helen did. Helen lifted her head just high enough to see over Michael, and saw Jana. After some careful maneuvering, Helen got out of bed. She stepped over to Jana. "You're in your undies." Jana giggled at her own comment. Helen stepped over to the closet and put on a t-shirt and a pair of jeans. It was only after she did this that she looked at the clock on the bedside table. "Oh my God! It's only five in the morning!" Helen was so startled that she forgot Michael was asleep, and her yell woke him up. Michael sat up in a flash, and simultaneously his hand slid under his pillow, which flew into view a split-second later with a small handgun poised and ready. Helen had known about the pistol, Michael had told her about it after she had moved in. After a few moments of silence, Michael lowered the weapon, and slid it back under his pillow. Michael relaxed, and got out of bed. He stepped over to Jana, and stooping down picked up his sister to hug her. He then set her down and walked over to Helen. He gave her a hug too, and then kissed her. After a moment they parted and Michael left the room. His head popped back in, "You should think about taking a shower, I know I'm gonna take one." Michael laughed all the way to the bathroom. Helen and Jana just stood. Then they both broke into laughter as well.
Two hour's later, Helen stepped out of the bathroom. Michael was napping on the couch, the T.V. tuned to a local news channel. Michael had turned the volume down very low, so Helen couldn't hear what the reporter on the screen was saying. Jana was sleeping too, curled up in the large armchair on the right of the couch. Helen dressed silently, and glanced up just in time to see Michael's Black Staff mech standing on the top of a building. For a moment she panicked, but then she saw it was a recording of their last mission. Helen plucked the remote from Michael's hand, and turned up the volume just in time to hear the report. "This is actual home video shot by a civilian just a few days ago." The view on the T.V. shifted. The home video was playing behind a table where two reporters sat. "As you can see here, we have one of the S3 mechs, which one was it James?" The female reporter looked to her male counterpart. "We believe that the machine currently on screen is the black variant of the Staff project. Whether the black unit has any differences from the yellow is currently unknown." The screen flicked back to the female reporter. "Right, well, now we're seeing the black unit fighting a particularly large demon...wow, it really is taking a beating isn't it?"
"Yes, I feel sorry for the pilot of that mech."
"Rightly so. But, as we can see here, the mech has turned the tables. My god, he's really letting that demon have it, isn't he?" Michael stirred, and sat up just in time to see him self on the T.V. as he sliced the demon in half. Helen felt a sickening wave of déjà vu as the black mech fell over. Then the shot on screen zoomed in, apparently whoever had been filming had seen her get out of her mech, because on the screen she watched herself run to Michael's collapsed machine. She watched as she pulled Michael's limp body from the mech. "Damn, I looked like shit." Helen had to fight back a laugh. Then the scene zoomed in further, close enough to see their faces, just in time to see Michael kiss Helen. Then the clip ended. "Well, looks like there's a little romance in S3 as well as demon fighting robots." The reporters laughed at the weak joke. Michael got up from the couch, and wrapped his arms around Helen. "Don't worry about it, it's not like we have anything to hide."
"I know, but I don't really feel like being on the news, especially if it's just because I'm with you."
"People from around the world will be watching us. We're their last hope, at least in their eyes. But, if you want to keep this between us, I'll understand."
"It's not people I'm worried about. I'm worried about my parents."
"Your parents?" Helen turned in Michael's arms to face him, and laid her head on his chest. "My parents, well, let's just say they have more than enough money. My father, he owns one of the world's largest weapons manufacturers in the world. The, the incident ten years ago made him very rich. My parents are good people, but that much money has made them arrogant. They think they're the best people on the planet. And they really won't want me dating a 'poor man' like you."
"I may not be a millionaire, but as long as I get to love you, I'll be the richest man ever." Helen laughed. "Did you get that out of a fortune cookie?"
"Maybe." Michael smiled at her, and somehow, she felt better too. "Look, if your parents are human, which I suspect they are, they'll be happy as long as your happy. I do make you happy, right?"
"Oh, of course!" Helen kissed Michael, and the kiss seemed to last an age. Jana finally stirred from her nap and sat up, rubbing her eyes. She looked at her brother. "Can we go now?" Michael started laughing. Helen glanced at her watch, it was just past seven-thirty. "I don't think the park'll be open yet, Jana." Jana crossed her arms and pouted. Michael laughed even harder. "Would you knock that off?"
"Yeah, ha ha, sorry. It's just, I had a little déjà vu. When I was little, before, you know, that happened, I remember having this exact conversation with my mom." Michael smiled broadly, his eyes flashing with joy. Helen knew why. Michael was happy, because he had a family again. Up until this point he had had a sister and a girlfriend, but now, now he really did have a family. A half-hour later, all three of them left their apartment. Michael was carrying his sister on his back at her request. Helen was carrying a small video camera, filming the outing. After twisting through several halls, they found the parking garage. Michael looked over to Helen, it was her car they were taking. Michael didn't own a car, he had not yet had a need for one. Before working for S3, Michael had gotten to work using an old, poorly maintained motorcycle. Michael had had the option of replacing the machine when he came to work for S3, but he had grown attached to the thing. Instead of replacing it, Michael had started working in his spare time to repair and improve it. Helen's car had been bought for her by her parents. Michael whistled when he saw her car, a silver sports car. It was clear to him that no expense had been spared in making it the ultimate luxury vehicle on the road. Jana buckled herself into the back seat. Helen made to hand Michael the keys, but he stopped her. "Your car, you drive. 'Sides, I can't actually drive a car."
"What? What do you mean you can't drive a car?" Michael grinned guiltily. "I learned once, but I only ever drove a car on rare occasions, the rest of the time I rode my motorcycle." Helen rolled her eyes. "Fine, I'll drive, but once you get that hunk of junk working I expect you to take me on a ride, got it?"
"Got it." Michael hopped into the passenger seat. Helen got in and started the car. Michael relaxed back in the seat, almost dozing off, stared out the window. He watched as buildings flashed by. After a short drive, they pulled up in front of the amusement park. Michael could see at a distance that the front gate was closed. Helen parked the car near the gate, and Jana jumped out. Michael got after her, and followed her up to the gate. Michael saw a sign with the park hours out of the corner of his eye, he saw the park was supposed to open at eight. He glanced at his watch, which said seven-forty. Jana pressed her face against the bars of the gate, and Helen was taking her time walk to the gate, as if that would lessen her wait. Just then, a man in a business suit walked past on the inside of the gate. He glanced at Michael and Jana, and then did a double take. "Michael? Michael Samson, is that you?" Michael looked the man in the face, and recollection dawned upon him. "Louis? Louis Franco, it is you! You son of a gun, I thought you were, well, dead!" Louis Franco laughed raucously. "I could say the same to you!" Helen stepped up behind Michael. "Michael, who is this?" Michael wrapped an arm around her, and grinned. "This is Louis Franco, my best friend when I was a kid, before the gate." Louis bowed behind the gate. "Louis, this is my girlfriend Helen Ashton, and, don't you remember Jana?" Louis paused for a moment. "Oh, yeah! Little Jana, I remember! Last I saw you, you were just a baby!" Jana huffed a cute little huff. Louis looked back to Michael. "So, what brings you here, man?"
"Oh, not much, we were just planning a day at the park, and Jana couldn't wait." Louis smiled. "Well, well, well, It looks like I'm in a position to help you out."
"What do you mean? What are you doing in there anyway?" Michael spoke like he didn't know, but Helen saw a small grin pull at the corners of his mouth. "Well, it just so happens I own this park, and so I can let you in a little early. What do you say?"
"So long as your not to busy to hang out with an old friend too." Louis laughed again. "Well, I suppose." Louis pulled off his tie and jacket, stuffing them in his briefcase, which he stashed in a small booth near the gate. Then he opened the gate, and was nearly bowled over by the blur that was Jana. Michael put a hand on his friend's shoulder. "Thanks a ton man, I owe you one."
"You don't own me anything, it's thanks to you I am who I am. After the event ten years ago, I thought you were dead. It was then and there I decided to put my all into being successful. I decided that I'd do enough living for both of us. Looks like I don't have to carry that around anymore, huh?"
"I appreciate it. And don't think it was a waste. I wasn't alive, not really, until just a few days ago. Up until that point I was living to get by, now I'm living for a purpose."
"Glad to hear it." Michael gave Helen a little push, telling her to go after Jana. Helen glanced back at the two men for a second, and then ran off after the girl. "So, what's you purpose, my friend?" Michael closed his eyes, and turned his face to the sky. "You know that promise we made, all of us, that we'd never fight, unless it was to protect people?"
"Yeah, I remember." Louis closed his eyes too, but turned his face to the ground. "Well, don't tell me you don't watch the news."
"Yeah, I watch. I guess it wasn't until now, seeing you face to face that I remembered you. Ten years is a long time."
"Yes, yes it is. Well, then you know what I'm doing. I guess, my question is, do you think I'm breaking that promise?" Michael's eyes opened, but his face remained toward the sky. Louis looked at his friend. "No, I don't think so. But, then again, normally there'd be the six of us, so I guess the jury will have to stay out." Michael grinned. "Thanks. That's one vote no. Only four more to go."
Helen and Jana were standing in front of the merry-go-round. Michael and Louis walked up to them, and Louis handed Jana a cotton candy bag that was just as tall as herself. Louis hopped the gate of the ride, and flicked a few switches on the control panel. Then he paused, and laughed at himself. From the pocket of his pants her pulled a small remote. "I forgot about this." Louis pressed one of the buttons, and out of nowhere numerous robot appeared and set about the business of opening the park. One robot appeared at Louis' shoulder, and after he moved out of the way, began working the merry-go-round's controls. "I was so caught up in the moment, I forgot that this park is automated." Jana and Helen hopped up onto the merry-go-round, and Michael and Louis stepped up after them. After helping his sister onto a large white horse, Michael sat down on a bench on the merry-go round next to Helen. Louis hopped up onto a black stallion right next to Jana's white horse. In a few moments, the ride started, and Jana's and Louis' horses began to bob up and down. Michael put his arm around Helen, who snuggled in closer to him. After a few minutes the ride stopped. Michael helped Jana down, and she ran off to the next ride, the Ferris Wheel. Louis decided not to get on with them, instead sitting on a bench. Michael, Helen, and Jana all got in the first car on the wheel. The ride was slow, and peaceful. Eventually they reached the top of the wheel. Michael was surprised at how peaceful and beautiful the city was, even with that infernal gate floating in the sky. The sun was at just the right angle to shine off the buildings, causing them to glitter like gold. Then they began their downward trip, finally reaching the platform. Others were starting to file into the park now. Louis greeted them at the wheel's exit with drinks. "I just guessed, so I'm sorry if I messed up." He hadn't. Several rides later, Michael's stomach growled. "Sound's like you're hungry." Michael grinned. Jana said, "I'm hungry too!" Helen laughed. "Well then, I guess it's time for lunch."
"What would you like? The food court has quiet a selection. Let's see, there's American, Chinese, Italian..." Louis stopped, and the color drained from his face, just as it did from Michael's and Helen's. All of them heard it, the warning siren, designed to go off when a demon materialized in the area. Michael moved like lightning, pulling out his cell phone, dialing the H.Q. "Michael. What should we do? Wait, what? Roger, I'll tell her. We'll be right here. There will be no collateral damage, not on my watch." Michael flicked the phone shut. "Louis, is there a shelter nearby, some place secure?"
"Y-yes, I had one built into the park as a precaution."
"Good, take Jana and get as many people as possible into that shelter NOW, you hear me?"
"Yes, yes, right away." Louis picked up Jana and started running, shouting to anyone in earshot to follow him to the shelter. Michael turned to Helen. "They're sending a special transport. It'll have our suits and mechs, as well as plenty of weapons."
"Good, I'll make this prick pay for ruining this day." Michael smiled. A few minutes later, a large rig, easily four time's the width of a normal semi-truck. A massive tarp covered the two mechs. It was escorted by Allen in Red Sword and Shinji in Green Shield. Michael and Helen changed as fast as they could, and jumped into their mechs. With Allen's help she loaded most of the firearms onto her White Sword. Michael, on the other hand, grabbed a small rifle to use with his Black Staff. Then he spotted a very long, thin object in a crate marked "Prototype-K1-Black". Michael pulled it out of the crate, and with surprisingly nimble finger movements from Black Staff, unwrapped it. Inside was a long sword, essentially a katana sized for Black Staff. Michael found a socket in the left hip of Black Staff that fit the sword perfectly. "Where are Hisana and Mina?" Allen answered. "Fighting the demon, where else, dumbass?" Michael rolled his eyes. "Helen, you ready?"
"Yes."
"Alright, let's go." Following the radar, it didn't take long to find the demon. Mina and Hisana were struggling. Michael and Helen took the creature on the right, Shinji and Allen circled around to the left. Michael started firing on it, and Helen followed suit. Mina and Hisana fell back, both of their mechs heavily damaged. Allen and Shinji opened fire too. Michael ran out of ammo, and pulled out his new sword. Charging toward the demon, he had to bob and weave, dodging bullets and the demons arms, all six of them. Allen, not to be outdone, rush the demon from the other side. The demon propelled itself up, into the air with all six arms, and Michael and Allen ran headlong into each other. The demon landed on Shinji, who began writhing desperately, trying to shake it off. Two of it’s arm held it in place, while the other four mercilessly pounded the heavy armor plating of Shinji’s mech. It didn’t take long for the plates to start buckling. Moving in wordless unison, both Michael and Allen leapt, sweeping their legs in twin arcs, kicking the monster at the exact same moment. Time paused, as if to reflect on the beauty of the moment. Then the beast grip was lots, and it shot, tumbling through the air, and rolled into a building. The two arms that had gripped Shinji’s machine still gripped it. They hung on, despite being parted from their owner. At Michael’s word, Shinji fell back too. Without warning the demon was on it’s feet again. From the stumps of it’s two missing arms, four more grew. “Aw, shit.” Allen fired as he spoke, but the demon was already gone, high in the air. Michael spun, screaming into his microphone, screaming to Helen, yelling at her to run, to find cover, to do anything but stay where she was. But it was too late, the demon landed on her with keen precision, forcing her mech to the ground, nearly crushing it flat. The world paused again, but this time Michael did not pause with it. Rage and blind fury overwhelmed him, peeling away thought, discarding tactics, turning him into a wild animal, set on a kill. For Allen, it was unreal. Just a split second after he heard Michael shout, and the crash of demon on machine, Michael was gone, crossing what seemed, suddenly, a vast field, in just a few, lightning-fast strides. Then, to Allen, the black blur the Michael’s mech had become, vanished altogether. The only indication of his presence was the sudden formation of countless deep gashes on the demons body. Then the black mech materialized, orange blood dripping from the sword and the right arm that clenched it. The lift arm was outstretched, palm flat against the demons head, or the closest thing it had to a head. In a flash of brilliant white flame, an explosion of pure light, the head vaporized, along with much of the torso of the demon. The now lifeless body fell sideways, and crashed to the ground with a large, wet thud. The blood red haze that had filled Michael’s mind cleared. In his arms was Helen, breathing gently, unharmed but for a few bruises, unconscious. A chill ran up his spine as her looked up from her, and the corpse of the demon. Somehow, he knew it was he who’d killed it, but it felt as if he hadn’t, like he remembered someone else’s memories. What horrified him most was the charred flash of the upper remains. He couldn’t believe he’d done that, he couldn’t sort it out in his mind. The heavy metal footsteps of Allen’s Red Sword sounded behind him. “Is she alright?” None of the malice that Allen had bore earlier remained. “Yes, she’s fine, just a little bruised.” Michael heard Allen and the other breathe a sigh of relief, even Hisana. Suddenly the strength drained from Michael’s limbs, and he fell backward, into the seat of Black Sword. He held his eyes open a minute longer, just long enough to see the transport, and just glimpse Jana and Louis safe and sound next to the driver.
"Michael, last I checked."
"Ha, very funny jackass, now, what do you think you're doing with Helen? She's mine!"
"I don't belong to anyone jerk!"
"Bull shit, you were supposed to be with me! That's why you were put in Sword!"
"What are you talking about?"
"You don't get it? Why do you think they put one guy and one girl on each team? They want us to pair up; fall for each other, whatever!"
"Well then it seems like I've ruined their plans." Allen threw a punch at Michael, who dodged and struck back, breaking Allen's nose. Allen staggered, dazed but not stopped. He bellowed in anger and charged Michael, ramming into his gut, driving him into the wall. Michael was winded for a moment. Allen pulled back, smirking, sure he had won. Then Michael moved. Allen less saw the movement as saw the aftermath, where Michael's fist coiled into Allen's abdomen, crushing the wind from his lungs. Michael then spun on the spot, and stopped his hand just short of a lethal blow, a few millimeters from Allen's neck. He was then slapped by Mina, who had watched the whole mess. "C'mon Helen, let's go home." Allen ran after them and tried to jump Michael, but with a busted nose and bruised ribs, Michael had the advantage over him. Michael was careful not to really hurt Allen, just beat him enough to drive the point home. "You had enough?"
"I'll have enough when I've kicked your ass!" Again Michael won. He was about to knock Allen out when her heard Jana yell, "Big brother! Don't hurt him!" Michael froze, and looked down the hall at his little sister, her bright yellow eyes wide with shock at her brother. Michael went numb, his arms and legs like lead weights. Jana ran to her older brother, and at the same time, a doctor and nurse came around the corner. "Oh, there she is!" The doctor strode up to Michael. "Mr. Samson? I'm Dr. Harold." Michael turned slowly, his eyes still locked on his sister. "How?"
"Well, this morning she requested..."
"But, I was told she wouldn't be able to... That she wouldn't be able to handle..."
"I know, I know. I was surprised as you are when she requested the procedure, and even more so when it was a resounding success."
"I'm all better now big brother! But, why where you hurting him?" Jana bobbed her head at Allen.
"Jana."
"Big brother, don't hurt him. He may be dummy, but he doesn't need that much hurt."
"How dare you call me stupid!" Allen lashed out at Jana, but had his hand crushed under Michael's shoe. "I don't care what your grudge is with me, but leave my sister out of it."
"Fu..." Allen was interrupted by Michael's foot in his face. Again Mina struck him across the face. Michael picked his little sister up on his shoulders and walked back to his apartment with the only two women he cared about in the whole world. With the combined salaries of Michael and Helen, their apartment had been spruced up. They had bought a new television, couches, beds, chairs, everything. Even though they could easily afford to eat out every night, Michael still insisted on cooking, and Helen had started learning from him. In school they both stood out as excellent students, even though Michael hadn't attended school in ten years. He confessed to Helen that, according to Professor Hanson, Michael's I.Q. was that of a genius. Helen wasn't a natural genius, but she more than made up for it with her tireless effort. Jana was receiving good grades in school as well, so, as a reward, Michael proposed the three of them go to the local amusement park on the up coming Saturday. Jana was the first one up. After getting dressed, she waited in the living room, just looking at her home. After a few minutes, she got tired of waiting and went to her brother's room. She slowly cracked the door open, and poked her head into the room. She tip-toed up to the edge to her brother's bed. Michael was lying facing the left side of the bed. Jana walked along the right side, looking at her brother's back. She could see Helen's slim arm lying on top of her brother. Jana tugged slightly at the sheets on the bed. Michael shifted a little, but didn't wake up. Jana tugged harder. Michael still didn't wake up, but Helen did. Helen lifted her head just high enough to see over Michael, and saw Jana. After some careful maneuvering, Helen got out of bed. She stepped over to Jana. "You're in your undies." Jana giggled at her own comment. Helen stepped over to the closet and put on a t-shirt and a pair of jeans. It was only after she did this that she looked at the clock on the bedside table. "Oh my God! It's only five in the morning!" Helen was so startled that she forgot Michael was asleep, and her yell woke him up. Michael sat up in a flash, and simultaneously his hand slid under his pillow, which flew into view a split-second later with a small handgun poised and ready. Helen had known about the pistol, Michael had told her about it after she had moved in. After a few moments of silence, Michael lowered the weapon, and slid it back under his pillow. Michael relaxed, and got out of bed. He stepped over to Jana, and stooping down picked up his sister to hug her. He then set her down and walked over to Helen. He gave her a hug too, and then kissed her. After a moment they parted and Michael left the room. His head popped back in, "You should think about taking a shower, I know I'm gonna take one." Michael laughed all the way to the bathroom. Helen and Jana just stood. Then they both broke into laughter as well.
Two hour's later, Helen stepped out of the bathroom. Michael was napping on the couch, the T.V. tuned to a local news channel. Michael had turned the volume down very low, so Helen couldn't hear what the reporter on the screen was saying. Jana was sleeping too, curled up in the large armchair on the right of the couch. Helen dressed silently, and glanced up just in time to see Michael's Black Staff mech standing on the top of a building. For a moment she panicked, but then she saw it was a recording of their last mission. Helen plucked the remote from Michael's hand, and turned up the volume just in time to hear the report. "This is actual home video shot by a civilian just a few days ago." The view on the T.V. shifted. The home video was playing behind a table where two reporters sat. "As you can see here, we have one of the S3 mechs, which one was it James?" The female reporter looked to her male counterpart. "We believe that the machine currently on screen is the black variant of the Staff project. Whether the black unit has any differences from the yellow is currently unknown." The screen flicked back to the female reporter. "Right, well, now we're seeing the black unit fighting a particularly large demon...wow, it really is taking a beating isn't it?"
"Yes, I feel sorry for the pilot of that mech."
"Rightly so. But, as we can see here, the mech has turned the tables. My god, he's really letting that demon have it, isn't he?" Michael stirred, and sat up just in time to see him self on the T.V. as he sliced the demon in half. Helen felt a sickening wave of déjà vu as the black mech fell over. Then the shot on screen zoomed in, apparently whoever had been filming had seen her get out of her mech, because on the screen she watched herself run to Michael's collapsed machine. She watched as she pulled Michael's limp body from the mech. "Damn, I looked like shit." Helen had to fight back a laugh. Then the scene zoomed in further, close enough to see their faces, just in time to see Michael kiss Helen. Then the clip ended. "Well, looks like there's a little romance in S3 as well as demon fighting robots." The reporters laughed at the weak joke. Michael got up from the couch, and wrapped his arms around Helen. "Don't worry about it, it's not like we have anything to hide."
"I know, but I don't really feel like being on the news, especially if it's just because I'm with you."
"People from around the world will be watching us. We're their last hope, at least in their eyes. But, if you want to keep this between us, I'll understand."
"It's not people I'm worried about. I'm worried about my parents."
"Your parents?" Helen turned in Michael's arms to face him, and laid her head on his chest. "My parents, well, let's just say they have more than enough money. My father, he owns one of the world's largest weapons manufacturers in the world. The, the incident ten years ago made him very rich. My parents are good people, but that much money has made them arrogant. They think they're the best people on the planet. And they really won't want me dating a 'poor man' like you."
"I may not be a millionaire, but as long as I get to love you, I'll be the richest man ever." Helen laughed. "Did you get that out of a fortune cookie?"
"Maybe." Michael smiled at her, and somehow, she felt better too. "Look, if your parents are human, which I suspect they are, they'll be happy as long as your happy. I do make you happy, right?"
"Oh, of course!" Helen kissed Michael, and the kiss seemed to last an age. Jana finally stirred from her nap and sat up, rubbing her eyes. She looked at her brother. "Can we go now?" Michael started laughing. Helen glanced at her watch, it was just past seven-thirty. "I don't think the park'll be open yet, Jana." Jana crossed her arms and pouted. Michael laughed even harder. "Would you knock that off?"
"Yeah, ha ha, sorry. It's just, I had a little déjà vu. When I was little, before, you know, that happened, I remember having this exact conversation with my mom." Michael smiled broadly, his eyes flashing with joy. Helen knew why. Michael was happy, because he had a family again. Up until this point he had had a sister and a girlfriend, but now, now he really did have a family. A half-hour later, all three of them left their apartment. Michael was carrying his sister on his back at her request. Helen was carrying a small video camera, filming the outing. After twisting through several halls, they found the parking garage. Michael looked over to Helen, it was her car they were taking. Michael didn't own a car, he had not yet had a need for one. Before working for S3, Michael had gotten to work using an old, poorly maintained motorcycle. Michael had had the option of replacing the machine when he came to work for S3, but he had grown attached to the thing. Instead of replacing it, Michael had started working in his spare time to repair and improve it. Helen's car had been bought for her by her parents. Michael whistled when he saw her car, a silver sports car. It was clear to him that no expense had been spared in making it the ultimate luxury vehicle on the road. Jana buckled herself into the back seat. Helen made to hand Michael the keys, but he stopped her. "Your car, you drive. 'Sides, I can't actually drive a car."
"What? What do you mean you can't drive a car?" Michael grinned guiltily. "I learned once, but I only ever drove a car on rare occasions, the rest of the time I rode my motorcycle." Helen rolled her eyes. "Fine, I'll drive, but once you get that hunk of junk working I expect you to take me on a ride, got it?"
"Got it." Michael hopped into the passenger seat. Helen got in and started the car. Michael relaxed back in the seat, almost dozing off, stared out the window. He watched as buildings flashed by. After a short drive, they pulled up in front of the amusement park. Michael could see at a distance that the front gate was closed. Helen parked the car near the gate, and Jana jumped out. Michael got after her, and followed her up to the gate. Michael saw a sign with the park hours out of the corner of his eye, he saw the park was supposed to open at eight. He glanced at his watch, which said seven-forty. Jana pressed her face against the bars of the gate, and Helen was taking her time walk to the gate, as if that would lessen her wait. Just then, a man in a business suit walked past on the inside of the gate. He glanced at Michael and Jana, and then did a double take. "Michael? Michael Samson, is that you?" Michael looked the man in the face, and recollection dawned upon him. "Louis? Louis Franco, it is you! You son of a gun, I thought you were, well, dead!" Louis Franco laughed raucously. "I could say the same to you!" Helen stepped up behind Michael. "Michael, who is this?" Michael wrapped an arm around her, and grinned. "This is Louis Franco, my best friend when I was a kid, before the gate." Louis bowed behind the gate. "Louis, this is my girlfriend Helen Ashton, and, don't you remember Jana?" Louis paused for a moment. "Oh, yeah! Little Jana, I remember! Last I saw you, you were just a baby!" Jana huffed a cute little huff. Louis looked back to Michael. "So, what brings you here, man?"
"Oh, not much, we were just planning a day at the park, and Jana couldn't wait." Louis smiled. "Well, well, well, It looks like I'm in a position to help you out."
"What do you mean? What are you doing in there anyway?" Michael spoke like he didn't know, but Helen saw a small grin pull at the corners of his mouth. "Well, it just so happens I own this park, and so I can let you in a little early. What do you say?"
"So long as your not to busy to hang out with an old friend too." Louis laughed again. "Well, I suppose." Louis pulled off his tie and jacket, stuffing them in his briefcase, which he stashed in a small booth near the gate. Then he opened the gate, and was nearly bowled over by the blur that was Jana. Michael put a hand on his friend's shoulder. "Thanks a ton man, I owe you one."
"You don't own me anything, it's thanks to you I am who I am. After the event ten years ago, I thought you were dead. It was then and there I decided to put my all into being successful. I decided that I'd do enough living for both of us. Looks like I don't have to carry that around anymore, huh?"
"I appreciate it. And don't think it was a waste. I wasn't alive, not really, until just a few days ago. Up until that point I was living to get by, now I'm living for a purpose."
"Glad to hear it." Michael gave Helen a little push, telling her to go after Jana. Helen glanced back at the two men for a second, and then ran off after the girl. "So, what's you purpose, my friend?" Michael closed his eyes, and turned his face to the sky. "You know that promise we made, all of us, that we'd never fight, unless it was to protect people?"
"Yeah, I remember." Louis closed his eyes too, but turned his face to the ground. "Well, don't tell me you don't watch the news."
"Yeah, I watch. I guess it wasn't until now, seeing you face to face that I remembered you. Ten years is a long time."
"Yes, yes it is. Well, then you know what I'm doing. I guess, my question is, do you think I'm breaking that promise?" Michael's eyes opened, but his face remained toward the sky. Louis looked at his friend. "No, I don't think so. But, then again, normally there'd be the six of us, so I guess the jury will have to stay out." Michael grinned. "Thanks. That's one vote no. Only four more to go."
Helen and Jana were standing in front of the merry-go-round. Michael and Louis walked up to them, and Louis handed Jana a cotton candy bag that was just as tall as herself. Louis hopped the gate of the ride, and flicked a few switches on the control panel. Then he paused, and laughed at himself. From the pocket of his pants her pulled a small remote. "I forgot about this." Louis pressed one of the buttons, and out of nowhere numerous robot appeared and set about the business of opening the park. One robot appeared at Louis' shoulder, and after he moved out of the way, began working the merry-go-round's controls. "I was so caught up in the moment, I forgot that this park is automated." Jana and Helen hopped up onto the merry-go-round, and Michael and Louis stepped up after them. After helping his sister onto a large white horse, Michael sat down on a bench on the merry-go round next to Helen. Louis hopped up onto a black stallion right next to Jana's white horse. In a few moments, the ride started, and Jana's and Louis' horses began to bob up and down. Michael put his arm around Helen, who snuggled in closer to him. After a few minutes the ride stopped. Michael helped Jana down, and she ran off to the next ride, the Ferris Wheel. Louis decided not to get on with them, instead sitting on a bench. Michael, Helen, and Jana all got in the first car on the wheel. The ride was slow, and peaceful. Eventually they reached the top of the wheel. Michael was surprised at how peaceful and beautiful the city was, even with that infernal gate floating in the sky. The sun was at just the right angle to shine off the buildings, causing them to glitter like gold. Then they began their downward trip, finally reaching the platform. Others were starting to file into the park now. Louis greeted them at the wheel's exit with drinks. "I just guessed, so I'm sorry if I messed up." He hadn't. Several rides later, Michael's stomach growled. "Sound's like you're hungry." Michael grinned. Jana said, "I'm hungry too!" Helen laughed. "Well then, I guess it's time for lunch."
"What would you like? The food court has quiet a selection. Let's see, there's American, Chinese, Italian..." Louis stopped, and the color drained from his face, just as it did from Michael's and Helen's. All of them heard it, the warning siren, designed to go off when a demon materialized in the area. Michael moved like lightning, pulling out his cell phone, dialing the H.Q. "Michael. What should we do? Wait, what? Roger, I'll tell her. We'll be right here. There will be no collateral damage, not on my watch." Michael flicked the phone shut. "Louis, is there a shelter nearby, some place secure?"
"Y-yes, I had one built into the park as a precaution."
"Good, take Jana and get as many people as possible into that shelter NOW, you hear me?"
"Yes, yes, right away." Louis picked up Jana and started running, shouting to anyone in earshot to follow him to the shelter. Michael turned to Helen. "They're sending a special transport. It'll have our suits and mechs, as well as plenty of weapons."
"Good, I'll make this prick pay for ruining this day." Michael smiled. A few minutes later, a large rig, easily four time's the width of a normal semi-truck. A massive tarp covered the two mechs. It was escorted by Allen in Red Sword and Shinji in Green Shield. Michael and Helen changed as fast as they could, and jumped into their mechs. With Allen's help she loaded most of the firearms onto her White Sword. Michael, on the other hand, grabbed a small rifle to use with his Black Staff. Then he spotted a very long, thin object in a crate marked "Prototype-K1-Black". Michael pulled it out of the crate, and with surprisingly nimble finger movements from Black Staff, unwrapped it. Inside was a long sword, essentially a katana sized for Black Staff. Michael found a socket in the left hip of Black Staff that fit the sword perfectly. "Where are Hisana and Mina?" Allen answered. "Fighting the demon, where else, dumbass?" Michael rolled his eyes. "Helen, you ready?"
"Yes."
"Alright, let's go." Following the radar, it didn't take long to find the demon. Mina and Hisana were struggling. Michael and Helen took the creature on the right, Shinji and Allen circled around to the left. Michael started firing on it, and Helen followed suit. Mina and Hisana fell back, both of their mechs heavily damaged. Allen and Shinji opened fire too. Michael ran out of ammo, and pulled out his new sword. Charging toward the demon, he had to bob and weave, dodging bullets and the demons arms, all six of them. Allen, not to be outdone, rush the demon from the other side. The demon propelled itself up, into the air with all six arms, and Michael and Allen ran headlong into each other. The demon landed on Shinji, who began writhing desperately, trying to shake it off. Two of it’s arm held it in place, while the other four mercilessly pounded the heavy armor plating of Shinji’s mech. It didn’t take long for the plates to start buckling. Moving in wordless unison, both Michael and Allen leapt, sweeping their legs in twin arcs, kicking the monster at the exact same moment. Time paused, as if to reflect on the beauty of the moment. Then the beast grip was lots, and it shot, tumbling through the air, and rolled into a building. The two arms that had gripped Shinji’s machine still gripped it. They hung on, despite being parted from their owner. At Michael’s word, Shinji fell back too. Without warning the demon was on it’s feet again. From the stumps of it’s two missing arms, four more grew. “Aw, shit.” Allen fired as he spoke, but the demon was already gone, high in the air. Michael spun, screaming into his microphone, screaming to Helen, yelling at her to run, to find cover, to do anything but stay where she was. But it was too late, the demon landed on her with keen precision, forcing her mech to the ground, nearly crushing it flat. The world paused again, but this time Michael did not pause with it. Rage and blind fury overwhelmed him, peeling away thought, discarding tactics, turning him into a wild animal, set on a kill. For Allen, it was unreal. Just a split second after he heard Michael shout, and the crash of demon on machine, Michael was gone, crossing what seemed, suddenly, a vast field, in just a few, lightning-fast strides. Then, to Allen, the black blur the Michael’s mech had become, vanished altogether. The only indication of his presence was the sudden formation of countless deep gashes on the demons body. Then the black mech materialized, orange blood dripping from the sword and the right arm that clenched it. The lift arm was outstretched, palm flat against the demons head, or the closest thing it had to a head. In a flash of brilliant white flame, an explosion of pure light, the head vaporized, along with much of the torso of the demon. The now lifeless body fell sideways, and crashed to the ground with a large, wet thud. The blood red haze that had filled Michael’s mind cleared. In his arms was Helen, breathing gently, unharmed but for a few bruises, unconscious. A chill ran up his spine as her looked up from her, and the corpse of the demon. Somehow, he knew it was he who’d killed it, but it felt as if he hadn’t, like he remembered someone else’s memories. What horrified him most was the charred flash of the upper remains. He couldn’t believe he’d done that, he couldn’t sort it out in his mind. The heavy metal footsteps of Allen’s Red Sword sounded behind him. “Is she alright?” None of the malice that Allen had bore earlier remained. “Yes, she’s fine, just a little bruised.” Michael heard Allen and the other breathe a sigh of relief, even Hisana. Suddenly the strength drained from Michael’s limbs, and he fell backward, into the seat of Black Sword. He held his eyes open a minute longer, just long enough to see the transport, and just glimpse Jana and Louis safe and sound next to the driver.
Chapter 1
A young man sat watching a documentary on the T.V. Images of pristine fields and wide open ocean slid across the screen. A deep, monotonous voice came over the speakers, "This is the area around New Tokyo in the year of 2665." The fields and ocean were replaced by charred wreckage and dead bodies. "This is New Tokyo in the year 2666. In one day, the entire city was invaded by a hostile race of monsters." Blurred pictures of fast moving creatures and behemoth demons scrolled over the screen. "They came through this," another image flashed up on the screen, this one showing a massive door, cracked open and pouring monsters out into the city. "The appropriately named Demon Gate. For nearly seven years man has poured its every resource into stopping the onslaught. Finally, just three years ago, in the year 2673, it seemed the unstoppable wave of monsters ended. But the gate still remained. Now, today, the year is 2676, and we have a new weapon to stop the gate. Six weapons actually." Another picture, this one of a set of six giant humanoid machines, paired off into three groups. "Meet the robots of S-cubed. The S-cubed project is divided into three groups. Project Sword, designed to take the fight beyond the gate, Project Shield, whose purpose is to provide a permanent defense against further invasions, and Project Staff, the most ambitious of the three. Project Staff's purpose is to shut the Demon Gate completely." The young man sighed. "Ha, even you have to admit, Project Staff is hopeless!" The young man turned silently in his chair, and looked the other young man who had spoken in the eye. "Not as hopeless as Project Sword."
"Why you....!"
"Michael, Allen, knock it off." Michael leaned back in his chair and brushed his long silver hair out of his face. Allen huffed and dropped into another chair, running his hand through his spiky red hair. "Much better, why can't you two get along?" Mina had her hands on her hips, leaning forward as if to throw her words at them. Her blonde hair hung past her shoulders, and of the three girls present, her figure was the most curved. Helen, another one of the girls, stood up from her chair. Her short cropped black hair gave her an athletic look, and her thin lean build added to it. "Lay off Michael, he didn't start it!"
"Please, ladies, don't fight." The timid Shinji tried to get in between the argument before it got ugly. His pale green hair was a product of Project Shield’s genetic alterations. Of the three guys, he had the kindest face, while Allen was built like a powerful fighter and Michael was incredibly suave and slick, and cool under even a great deal of pressure. "We're all here for the same reason, so shut up and calm down." The quiet voice of Hisana cut off everyone else in the room. Her shoulder length blue hair was hanging down over her bespectacled face. Finally the sole door into the room they occupied opened, and three adults entered. "Hello, we are..." Michael stood up abruptly and interrupted the man speaking. "We know, you're the heads of the S-cubed projects. Major Ivan Kalasdozki, director of Project Sword, Doctor Michelle Iuzumia, the head of Project Shield, and Professor Jonathan Hanson, the leader of Project Staff."
"And you must be Michael Samson, the male subject of Project Staff, a pleasure to meet you." The bent over old man hobbled forward and shook Michael's hand. Michael shook back absent mindedly, looking over the others, trying to figure out who his team mate would be. "Now, which one of you lovely young ladies is Mina Disandes?"
"That'd be me!" A stiff military man stepped forward. "Allen DeChevalier, Helen Ashton, step forward." Allen and Helen stepped up to the big man. "You are under my command now, do you understand?"
"Yes, sir."
"Yes, sir." Lastly a middle-aged woman in a long lab coat with a kind face beckoned to Shinji and Hisana. "Come on you two. No need for formalities between us. Or do you want me to call you Shinji Fusakata and Hisana Asayumi?" The six eighteen year olds were lead out of the room and down a hall. "I'm sure that all six of you with find S3 headquarters more than comfortable."
"Where are the weapons?"
"Keep quiet, DeChevalier."
"Yes, sir."
"We will get to them in a moment, Allen. In the mean time, the housing is down that way, you will each be given your own apartment. If any of you have family that you requested be brought here, they will already be housed." Michael relaxed slightly at this, something only Helen noticed. The three lead on. Professor Hanson pointed out the research areas, the education center, where they would be attending along with several other students from the local area, and the repair bay, where any damage incurred to the mechs would be fixed. Finally they came to the long awaited hangar. The hangar was a huge, cavernous open area. Along one wall was the set of six humanoid machines. "These are the machines of the S3 project. You will be briefed on your specifics of your projects later..." A siren sounded, droning in a high pitched whine. "It seems we don't have time for the specifics. Follow Major Kalasdozki to suit up. After that, you will be shown to your units." The doctor and professor left quickly, leaving all six of them with the Major. "This way." He led them quickly down the hall and to a solitary door. "In here you will find combat suits, strip down and then get suited up."
"Wait, strip down? Like, naked?"
"Yes, the suits won't seal properly if you have any garments on under it, including underwear. Is that a problem?"
"But, we're girls, and they're guys!"
"If you're shy, there are stalls you can change in. Now get in there and get suited up!" The girls tried to protest, but the guys just went in and began striping down. Mina and Helen averted their eyes, but Hisana just looked at the guys with a factual gaze. Shinji hid himself, but Allen and Michael weren't shy at all. Shinji noticed that Michael was covered in scars. Allen was extremely muscular. Shinji looked over his own body, noting the clusters of needle marks. Shinji slid into his suit, and glanced over his shoulder just in time to see Hisana taking her shirt off. He felt blood rush to his face as he spun on the spot and looked away. Someone tapped him on the shoulder. "Hey, Shinji, you have a thing for Hisana?"
"Uh, um, well, I, well, uh, I...."
"Ha, so you do like her." Shinji tried to deny it, but Allen drifted off and left him alone. Following instructions Shinji pushed a button on the suit's collar and the suit fit itself skin tight to his body with a slight hiss. Michael and Allen did the same. Mina and Helen came out of two stalls, and Shinji's face turned red again. Michael didn't react and Allen let out a wolf whistle. Mina blushed and Helen hit Allen, while Michael snickered. Hisana came around the corner and looked at the others. A door behind her opened, and two men in hazard suits came in. "This way. Your suits are color coded to the color of your mechs. Please get in them at once." Michael looked over his suit, and saw the pitch black lines that were different colors on the others suits. He had black, Allen had red, Shinji had green, Mina had yellow, Hisana had blue, and Helen had white. They each approached their machines. The blue and green units were bulkier and heavier than the others. The red and white units were heavily armed, filled to the brim with weaponry. The black and yellow machines were very different units from the others. While the others had the sharp angular lines of an ordinary machine, the black and yellow were shaped with smooth curves. Of the six, they were also the most humanoid. Each of them stepped into the control units of each mech, and sat down in the specially designed seats. For Hisana and Shinji, tubing and needles attached to them, while electrodes and wires adhered to Michael and Mina's suits in specific points. Michael slid his hands into the controls, and flexed them, watching on the video screens around him as the robots hands moved slightly after his did. He pulled one hand out and tweaked more controls, and then flexed his hands again. This time the hands moved at the same time. He glanced to the side and saw the others performing similar checks. "Unit Black Staff, move out first. You will be followed by Red Sword and Green Shield. After you three are out, Yellow Staff, Blue Shield, and White Sword will follow." The locks holding Michael's machine in place popped off with bursts of steam. After a few moments of wobbling, Michael was able to walk confidently toward a large elevator like construct built for their robots. He stepped onto it and waited for Allen and Shinji. Allen was able to move well enough, but Shinji had trouble working with the bulky unit. "Shinji, you remember I told you about the rollers, right?"
"Oh, yes mam." A set of four wheels popped out of slots in the sides of each foot. With these Shinji was able to move much easier, literally skating across the ground. To stop, he retracted the wheels, and skidded along the ground with the sound of metal scraping metal. Shinji handled the next few steps to the lift better than he handled his first ones. Once all three were in, the lift began to ascend. "Why do you think the girls had to stay behind?"
"Simple, this lift probably can't handle the weight of all six units. Besides, I want a shot at this bastard before anyone else."
"Get in line, Mike, this one is mine, I'm gonna prove that Project Sword is the only one that will be effective."
"That's all you care about? You just want your project to be the right one?"
"Of course."
"Then I doubt we will ever understand each other." Michael went silent after that. Finally the lift reached its top, and the large gate slid open. Shinji glided out, one arm up to block. Allen dashed out with several guns bristling. Michael walked calmly out, and in a graceful motion lept onto a nearby building. He scanned the horizon, looking for anything moving that shouldn't be. Suddenly shots rang out below him. Allen unloaded into a demon about half the height of his mech, which fell over, oozing orange blood. "HA, got him!"
"No, that was just a lackey. Be careful, the big one is just that, big." Allen dashed off again. Michael continued to look about. He saw the green block that was Shinji, and the red one that was Allen. His radar informed him that the girls had reached the surface and were sticking together. "Good. They'll need each other to handle this." Michael jumped to another building, and continued his search. He glanced at the radar, seeing that Allen and Shinji were moving even further apart. "Red, Green, do you read me?"
"Loud and clear, Black, what's up?"
"Stick together; we don't know what this thing can do."
"Whatever." The radio clicked off. Michael gritted his teeth as Allen ignored his advice. Suddenly a large shadow covered him, and Michael was bowled to the ground far below. Helen saw a black object being attacked by a monster, and saw them both fall to the ground. "Shit! Michael, Michael, do you read me?!"
"Roger, but keep it down, I'm busy, arg, damn, bastard!" Allen nearly went head over heels as he tried to turn on a dime. Shinji had to come to a full stop in order to turn fast enough. Hisana, Mina, Helen all shot of in Michael's direction. Allen ran full speed, and fell into an ambush by demons. He killed several easily, but they were winning by shear numbers. Shinji changed course and went to help Allen. The girls also can into an ambush, but working together they destroyed the ambushers with ease. They kept moving, and came around a corner just in time to see something black shoot backward and slam into a building. A spike of bone followed, and ran through Michael's mech's arm, pinning it. Finally the demon itself, nearly twice as tall as any of them, strode into view. It looked at the girls out of the corner of its eye, but focused on Michael, proceeding to beat the motionless machine back and forth. Mina opened fire, trying to draw the monster away, but it just swatted her down with a casual motion of its arm. IT pulled the arm back, readying another punch. It threw the punch, but the fist stopped short of Michael's unit's torso. It was held back by Black's loose arm. Over the radio, everyone heard a deep guttural yell as Black lifted the demon off the ground and threw it through the air. Black ripped the spike out of its other arm, and tossed it aside. On its back, two fin-like protrusions opened, revealing rotating rings inscribed with glyphs. The rings began spinning fast, and short sparks of energy jumped off of them and onto the rest of Black. Michael roared again and rushed the demon. The creature tried to fight back, but Michael ripped its arm off easily. The Demon flailed, trying to protect itself, but Black Staff, and Michael inside, were unstoppable. Before long the Demon was missing several large chunks of flesh, and Black's hands dripped orange blood. The girls were frozen with shock as Michael continued to rip the demon apart barehanded. Finally Black gripped the blade hidden in its thigh and sliced the demon in half from head to toe. "Oh my god." They could all hear Michael's ragged breathing over the radio, but it suddenly stopped. "Oh, no! He's gone into cardiac arrest! Girls? Do any of you know CPR?" Helen shook herself out of the shock and responded. "Good, you're going to have to exit your machine and then find the emergency eject on his machine and activate it. From there you should know what to do." Helen did as instructed, and opened the control unit for Michael's mech. She pulled him out and began performing CPR, but she was hindered by the rigged polymer of the suit. She pulled a combat knife that had come with each suit from its holster and cut open the top half of the suit. After that she was able to revive him. He coughed and spluttered as he cleared blood from his lungs. He sat up stiffly, and looked at Helen. Without a word he leaned into her and kissed her on the cheek before passing out.
"Amazing. He was able to take on a chief-class demon single handed and win."
"But don’t' you think it's unfair to push any of them this hard? He nearly died."
"True, we shouldn't expect them to do so much, but still, the fact is that if we can push all of them to this kind of level, then shutting the gate and stopping the demons would be a very easy reality."
"I still don't like it."
"Don't worry doctor; we won't be doing anything in the near future."
Helen was sanding outside of Michael's apartment, trying to decide whether or not to knock. Just as she decided against it, and turned to leave, Michael walked up behind her. "Helen, what are you doing here?"
"Oh, um, well, nothing."
"Big brother, who are you talking to?"
"A friend Jana, come out and say hello."
"Okay." The door opened behind her, and an eleven year old girl stepped out. She looked like an ordinary little girl, except that her irises were completely white. "Nice to meet you, I'm Jana Samson. How do you know my big brother, and what do you look like?" Her hair was silver just like her brothers, but her face was kind and sweet. She smiled. "Well, I have short black hair...."
"It'd be easier if you just let her feel you, she's just trying to be polite."
"Big brother, don’t be so rude!" The little girl stamped her foot. "So, you're blind."
"Yep, for as long as I can remember."
"Why don't you come in? Then you two can get to know each other and I can make all of us dinner, what do you say?" Michael cocked his head to the side and smiled. He almost looked like a normal teenager. "Oh, I don't know, I don't want to impose..."
"Nonsense. Jana, show her in please. I'll get dinner started." Jana felt for Helen’s hand, which Helen gave her. The little girl tugged Helen into the apartment, occasionally stopping to feel a wall. "I still haven't memorized where everything is yet, so I might ask you to help...."
"That's okay." Helen saw that the home was sparsely decorated. Se understood why it wouldn't matter to Jana if the house was empty, but she expected Michael to have something. "In here!" Jana pulled Helen into one of the only brightly lit rooms in the apartment. An electric fireplace blazed quietly on one wall, and a television sat on two cardboard boxes against another wall. There was a couch and a chair, both of which were old and moth-eaten. From the kitchen she heard Michael shout, "Alright, what do you want for dinner?"
"Pizza!" The little girl jumped with glee. "No, we had that last night. How about spaghetti?"
"No, not that....what about chicken?"
"Chicken sounds good. What do you say Helen, chicken alright with you?"
"Yeah, sounds great." Michael came out from the kitchen with and apron on and carrying another over his shoulder. "Hey, could you help me out, an extra pair of hands would really speed things up."
"Sure, no problem." Helen had trouble tying the apron, so Michael helped her. She was surprised at how quickly he could cut the ingredients. "The real reason I wanted you in here was so we could talk."
"What about?"
"I...I wanted to thank you."
"Oh, no problem, don't worry about it."
"I do. If it hadn't been for you, Jana would have been on her own. I owe you."
"Like I said, don't worry about it."
"There was one other thing. About that kiss..."
"Don't worry; I won't tell anyone, it was probably nothing, probably."
"Actually, I was going to ask, well I thought that, maybe..."
"He wants to ask you to go out with him."
"Jana! How many times have I told you not to eavesdrop!?" Jenna giggled and skittered out of the room. Michael, focused on the vegetables he was dicing, had a slight red tinge to his cheeks. Helen looked at the floor. "Sure."
"What?"
"Sure, I'll go out with you. Actually, I kind of had a crush on you since we met." Michael smiled sheepishly, and finished the meal. "Alright, chicken soup."
"Aw, I wanted chicken fingers!"
"Well you've got soup." Jana smiled, and Helen could tell this was a common occurrence. They ate and talked. Jana would occasionally reach out to feel one of them, just for some kind of reassurance. Jana finally got a good picture in her head of what Helen looked like. Helen noticed that Jana didn't know that she or her brother had silver hair; she thought their hair was blond. "Alright, bed time!"
"What!? No! I don't wanna!"
"Don't wanna, but gotta, get to bed."
"Meanie!"
"Oh, I'm hurt, oh no, I'm hurt bad!"
"Okay, I'll go, but don't you stay up all night with your girlfriend!" Michael brought Helen back to the living room. "So, how did you end up in S3?"
"My parents, they were killed in an attack by the demons. I lost my left arm from the elbow down, Jana lost her eyesight. We only had enough money for one procedure, and Jana was only one year old. I needed my other hand to do any kind of work, so I decided that I'd just take care of her to repay her for giving up her sight so I could work to feed the both of us. The day after they died, our hair turned silver. Only a month ago, I was contacted with an offer to come here. It was an opportunity to give Jana and myself a good education, and the pay was better than the best, so it didn't take me long to decide. The problem is, Jana’s become too used to being blind. According to doctors, she might not be able to handle the shock of seeing again. Damn it, I'm a pathetic older brother."
"No you're not. You're one of the best older brothers I've ever seen. You did all of this, put yourself in danger, just to give your little sister a chance at a better life." Helen scooted closer to him on the couch, leaning against him. "Maybe, but I can't help feeling like I don't deserve this, like I've chanced into someone else's life, or that this is all a dream."
"What? You're saying I'm a dream?"
"You're every guys dream, at least the sane ones." They kissed for a long time. The sun had already set. What happened next was a blur in Helen’s memory. She remembered kissing, and walking to Michael's room, and spending a wonderful night.
Helen awoke the next morning, naked under the sheets of Michael's bed. She found a shirt, and put it on. It was just long enough to cover her decently, which meant it was likely Michael's. She walked out of his room and was blinded by glaring sunlight. "Hey beautiful.” Michael stood. “Don't worry; Jana’s already gone to school."
"It's not her I'm worried about, it's you." Michael knew she was teasing him, but he played along. "Well, I'm not the type to kiss and tell."
"Problem is we did a whole lot more than kiss."
"Don't worry. As long as this doesn't affect our performance on the battlefield, no one will care."
"Allen will, he was eyeing me up since he first saw me, shallow prick."
"Don't worry, if he causes problems I'll take care of it. I'll do whatever you want."
"What I want right now is a kiss."
"You got it." Helen returned to Michael's room and got properly dressed. Michael was still walking around in a towel tied around his waist. "Why don't you get dressed?"
"Because none of my pants are big enough for the..."
"Whoa there big boy. I get your point." Michael laughed. Helen looked at him, taking in all the scars it had been too dark to see last night. "So, all of those scars are from..."
"Yes, the bastard demon that killed my parents and blinded my sister. He even took my arm, you can't see the reattachment scar anymore, unless you look real close." Helen grabbed his arm and pulled it close to her. She could faintly see the thin line that ran in a perfect circle around Michael's left forearm. She looked up at his face, which was blank. She knew he was hiding his emotions, trying to protect her, dissuade her from asking for details. It didn't work. "What happened?" Michael frowned. "Are you sure you want to know?"
"Definitely." Michael sighed. He rubbed his forehead with his free arm; Helen was clutching the other tight. "We, my parents and I, we used to live here, in this city. Like I said, Jana was born a year before the-the Demon Gate opened. We only had time to hole up in our apartment before everything went dead. We stayed there for a week. My-my parents, we were running out of food, they knew we had to find more. God damn it! Th-they opened the door, and right there was a Demon. I managed to cover Jana’s eyes just-just before it killed them, but I didn't have time to look away. It-it killed my father first. I, please, don't make me tell you about it." Helen held Michael's arm even tighter. "It's okay. Skip that part, if you need to." Michael suddenly changed. He had been shaking just a moment before, but now a new, cold resolve came over him. "My father, he was ripped limb from limb. It only took moments, but it was long enough for me to hear him scream. My mother, if you can use the word to refer to a demon, it killed her rather quickly. It just, just crushed her head, like one of us might squish and ant. Then it came after Jana and me. I tried to stop it, but, well, what the fuck could an eight year old do against a demon? The big thing took my arm off like it was brushing off some dirt. Hurt like hell, but I was more worried about Jana. The thing stood over her, looking right at her. Next thing I know, the monster it a big bloody stain on the wall, my arm isn't bleeding anymore, and Jana’s eyes are white." Helen paused. "What happened, did you find out?" Michael nodded. "This happened." He lifted his free arm, and in his right palm, a sphere of flame formed. Helen was speechless. "The professor thinks that my genetic code reacted to the presence of the demon, and activated something that had been long dormant. The best term he can think of for it is magic, but I prefer to think of it as..."
"Please, just let me think its magic." Michael grinned, and nodded. She felt something poking at her chest, and looked down, seeing Michael's finger. "Perv."
"Hey, I can't help it. It's kind of like trying not to touch a beautiful flower that you love with all your heart."
"So, you're comparing my breasts to flowers." Michael laughed again, and then kissed her. "No, I'm comparing you to a flower, a very beautiful flower."
"Careful or you might have to sleep with me again."
"I've got no problem with that." Helen grinned and ended up under the covers, naked again. This time Michael was next to her, however. She could feel his warmth right next to hers. She felt incredibly content.
"Why you....!"
"Michael, Allen, knock it off." Michael leaned back in his chair and brushed his long silver hair out of his face. Allen huffed and dropped into another chair, running his hand through his spiky red hair. "Much better, why can't you two get along?" Mina had her hands on her hips, leaning forward as if to throw her words at them. Her blonde hair hung past her shoulders, and of the three girls present, her figure was the most curved. Helen, another one of the girls, stood up from her chair. Her short cropped black hair gave her an athletic look, and her thin lean build added to it. "Lay off Michael, he didn't start it!"
"Please, ladies, don't fight." The timid Shinji tried to get in between the argument before it got ugly. His pale green hair was a product of Project Shield’s genetic alterations. Of the three guys, he had the kindest face, while Allen was built like a powerful fighter and Michael was incredibly suave and slick, and cool under even a great deal of pressure. "We're all here for the same reason, so shut up and calm down." The quiet voice of Hisana cut off everyone else in the room. Her shoulder length blue hair was hanging down over her bespectacled face. Finally the sole door into the room they occupied opened, and three adults entered. "Hello, we are..." Michael stood up abruptly and interrupted the man speaking. "We know, you're the heads of the S-cubed projects. Major Ivan Kalasdozki, director of Project Sword, Doctor Michelle Iuzumia, the head of Project Shield, and Professor Jonathan Hanson, the leader of Project Staff."
"And you must be Michael Samson, the male subject of Project Staff, a pleasure to meet you." The bent over old man hobbled forward and shook Michael's hand. Michael shook back absent mindedly, looking over the others, trying to figure out who his team mate would be. "Now, which one of you lovely young ladies is Mina Disandes?"
"That'd be me!" A stiff military man stepped forward. "Allen DeChevalier, Helen Ashton, step forward." Allen and Helen stepped up to the big man. "You are under my command now, do you understand?"
"Yes, sir."
"Yes, sir." Lastly a middle-aged woman in a long lab coat with a kind face beckoned to Shinji and Hisana. "Come on you two. No need for formalities between us. Or do you want me to call you Shinji Fusakata and Hisana Asayumi?" The six eighteen year olds were lead out of the room and down a hall. "I'm sure that all six of you with find S3 headquarters more than comfortable."
"Where are the weapons?"
"Keep quiet, DeChevalier."
"Yes, sir."
"We will get to them in a moment, Allen. In the mean time, the housing is down that way, you will each be given your own apartment. If any of you have family that you requested be brought here, they will already be housed." Michael relaxed slightly at this, something only Helen noticed. The three lead on. Professor Hanson pointed out the research areas, the education center, where they would be attending along with several other students from the local area, and the repair bay, where any damage incurred to the mechs would be fixed. Finally they came to the long awaited hangar. The hangar was a huge, cavernous open area. Along one wall was the set of six humanoid machines. "These are the machines of the S3 project. You will be briefed on your specifics of your projects later..." A siren sounded, droning in a high pitched whine. "It seems we don't have time for the specifics. Follow Major Kalasdozki to suit up. After that, you will be shown to your units." The doctor and professor left quickly, leaving all six of them with the Major. "This way." He led them quickly down the hall and to a solitary door. "In here you will find combat suits, strip down and then get suited up."
"Wait, strip down? Like, naked?"
"Yes, the suits won't seal properly if you have any garments on under it, including underwear. Is that a problem?"
"But, we're girls, and they're guys!"
"If you're shy, there are stalls you can change in. Now get in there and get suited up!" The girls tried to protest, but the guys just went in and began striping down. Mina and Helen averted their eyes, but Hisana just looked at the guys with a factual gaze. Shinji hid himself, but Allen and Michael weren't shy at all. Shinji noticed that Michael was covered in scars. Allen was extremely muscular. Shinji looked over his own body, noting the clusters of needle marks. Shinji slid into his suit, and glanced over his shoulder just in time to see Hisana taking her shirt off. He felt blood rush to his face as he spun on the spot and looked away. Someone tapped him on the shoulder. "Hey, Shinji, you have a thing for Hisana?"
"Uh, um, well, I, well, uh, I...."
"Ha, so you do like her." Shinji tried to deny it, but Allen drifted off and left him alone. Following instructions Shinji pushed a button on the suit's collar and the suit fit itself skin tight to his body with a slight hiss. Michael and Allen did the same. Mina and Helen came out of two stalls, and Shinji's face turned red again. Michael didn't react and Allen let out a wolf whistle. Mina blushed and Helen hit Allen, while Michael snickered. Hisana came around the corner and looked at the others. A door behind her opened, and two men in hazard suits came in. "This way. Your suits are color coded to the color of your mechs. Please get in them at once." Michael looked over his suit, and saw the pitch black lines that were different colors on the others suits. He had black, Allen had red, Shinji had green, Mina had yellow, Hisana had blue, and Helen had white. They each approached their machines. The blue and green units were bulkier and heavier than the others. The red and white units were heavily armed, filled to the brim with weaponry. The black and yellow machines were very different units from the others. While the others had the sharp angular lines of an ordinary machine, the black and yellow were shaped with smooth curves. Of the six, they were also the most humanoid. Each of them stepped into the control units of each mech, and sat down in the specially designed seats. For Hisana and Shinji, tubing and needles attached to them, while electrodes and wires adhered to Michael and Mina's suits in specific points. Michael slid his hands into the controls, and flexed them, watching on the video screens around him as the robots hands moved slightly after his did. He pulled one hand out and tweaked more controls, and then flexed his hands again. This time the hands moved at the same time. He glanced to the side and saw the others performing similar checks. "Unit Black Staff, move out first. You will be followed by Red Sword and Green Shield. After you three are out, Yellow Staff, Blue Shield, and White Sword will follow." The locks holding Michael's machine in place popped off with bursts of steam. After a few moments of wobbling, Michael was able to walk confidently toward a large elevator like construct built for their robots. He stepped onto it and waited for Allen and Shinji. Allen was able to move well enough, but Shinji had trouble working with the bulky unit. "Shinji, you remember I told you about the rollers, right?"
"Oh, yes mam." A set of four wheels popped out of slots in the sides of each foot. With these Shinji was able to move much easier, literally skating across the ground. To stop, he retracted the wheels, and skidded along the ground with the sound of metal scraping metal. Shinji handled the next few steps to the lift better than he handled his first ones. Once all three were in, the lift began to ascend. "Why do you think the girls had to stay behind?"
"Simple, this lift probably can't handle the weight of all six units. Besides, I want a shot at this bastard before anyone else."
"Get in line, Mike, this one is mine, I'm gonna prove that Project Sword is the only one that will be effective."
"That's all you care about? You just want your project to be the right one?"
"Of course."
"Then I doubt we will ever understand each other." Michael went silent after that. Finally the lift reached its top, and the large gate slid open. Shinji glided out, one arm up to block. Allen dashed out with several guns bristling. Michael walked calmly out, and in a graceful motion lept onto a nearby building. He scanned the horizon, looking for anything moving that shouldn't be. Suddenly shots rang out below him. Allen unloaded into a demon about half the height of his mech, which fell over, oozing orange blood. "HA, got him!"
"No, that was just a lackey. Be careful, the big one is just that, big." Allen dashed off again. Michael continued to look about. He saw the green block that was Shinji, and the red one that was Allen. His radar informed him that the girls had reached the surface and were sticking together. "Good. They'll need each other to handle this." Michael jumped to another building, and continued his search. He glanced at the radar, seeing that Allen and Shinji were moving even further apart. "Red, Green, do you read me?"
"Loud and clear, Black, what's up?"
"Stick together; we don't know what this thing can do."
"Whatever." The radio clicked off. Michael gritted his teeth as Allen ignored his advice. Suddenly a large shadow covered him, and Michael was bowled to the ground far below. Helen saw a black object being attacked by a monster, and saw them both fall to the ground. "Shit! Michael, Michael, do you read me?!"
"Roger, but keep it down, I'm busy, arg, damn, bastard!" Allen nearly went head over heels as he tried to turn on a dime. Shinji had to come to a full stop in order to turn fast enough. Hisana, Mina, Helen all shot of in Michael's direction. Allen ran full speed, and fell into an ambush by demons. He killed several easily, but they were winning by shear numbers. Shinji changed course and went to help Allen. The girls also can into an ambush, but working together they destroyed the ambushers with ease. They kept moving, and came around a corner just in time to see something black shoot backward and slam into a building. A spike of bone followed, and ran through Michael's mech's arm, pinning it. Finally the demon itself, nearly twice as tall as any of them, strode into view. It looked at the girls out of the corner of its eye, but focused on Michael, proceeding to beat the motionless machine back and forth. Mina opened fire, trying to draw the monster away, but it just swatted her down with a casual motion of its arm. IT pulled the arm back, readying another punch. It threw the punch, but the fist stopped short of Michael's unit's torso. It was held back by Black's loose arm. Over the radio, everyone heard a deep guttural yell as Black lifted the demon off the ground and threw it through the air. Black ripped the spike out of its other arm, and tossed it aside. On its back, two fin-like protrusions opened, revealing rotating rings inscribed with glyphs. The rings began spinning fast, and short sparks of energy jumped off of them and onto the rest of Black. Michael roared again and rushed the demon. The creature tried to fight back, but Michael ripped its arm off easily. The Demon flailed, trying to protect itself, but Black Staff, and Michael inside, were unstoppable. Before long the Demon was missing several large chunks of flesh, and Black's hands dripped orange blood. The girls were frozen with shock as Michael continued to rip the demon apart barehanded. Finally Black gripped the blade hidden in its thigh and sliced the demon in half from head to toe. "Oh my god." They could all hear Michael's ragged breathing over the radio, but it suddenly stopped. "Oh, no! He's gone into cardiac arrest! Girls? Do any of you know CPR?" Helen shook herself out of the shock and responded. "Good, you're going to have to exit your machine and then find the emergency eject on his machine and activate it. From there you should know what to do." Helen did as instructed, and opened the control unit for Michael's mech. She pulled him out and began performing CPR, but she was hindered by the rigged polymer of the suit. She pulled a combat knife that had come with each suit from its holster and cut open the top half of the suit. After that she was able to revive him. He coughed and spluttered as he cleared blood from his lungs. He sat up stiffly, and looked at Helen. Without a word he leaned into her and kissed her on the cheek before passing out.
"Amazing. He was able to take on a chief-class demon single handed and win."
"But don’t' you think it's unfair to push any of them this hard? He nearly died."
"True, we shouldn't expect them to do so much, but still, the fact is that if we can push all of them to this kind of level, then shutting the gate and stopping the demons would be a very easy reality."
"I still don't like it."
"Don't worry doctor; we won't be doing anything in the near future."
Helen was sanding outside of Michael's apartment, trying to decide whether or not to knock. Just as she decided against it, and turned to leave, Michael walked up behind her. "Helen, what are you doing here?"
"Oh, um, well, nothing."
"Big brother, who are you talking to?"
"A friend Jana, come out and say hello."
"Okay." The door opened behind her, and an eleven year old girl stepped out. She looked like an ordinary little girl, except that her irises were completely white. "Nice to meet you, I'm Jana Samson. How do you know my big brother, and what do you look like?" Her hair was silver just like her brothers, but her face was kind and sweet. She smiled. "Well, I have short black hair...."
"It'd be easier if you just let her feel you, she's just trying to be polite."
"Big brother, don’t be so rude!" The little girl stamped her foot. "So, you're blind."
"Yep, for as long as I can remember."
"Why don't you come in? Then you two can get to know each other and I can make all of us dinner, what do you say?" Michael cocked his head to the side and smiled. He almost looked like a normal teenager. "Oh, I don't know, I don't want to impose..."
"Nonsense. Jana, show her in please. I'll get dinner started." Jana felt for Helen’s hand, which Helen gave her. The little girl tugged Helen into the apartment, occasionally stopping to feel a wall. "I still haven't memorized where everything is yet, so I might ask you to help...."
"That's okay." Helen saw that the home was sparsely decorated. Se understood why it wouldn't matter to Jana if the house was empty, but she expected Michael to have something. "In here!" Jana pulled Helen into one of the only brightly lit rooms in the apartment. An electric fireplace blazed quietly on one wall, and a television sat on two cardboard boxes against another wall. There was a couch and a chair, both of which were old and moth-eaten. From the kitchen she heard Michael shout, "Alright, what do you want for dinner?"
"Pizza!" The little girl jumped with glee. "No, we had that last night. How about spaghetti?"
"No, not that....what about chicken?"
"Chicken sounds good. What do you say Helen, chicken alright with you?"
"Yeah, sounds great." Michael came out from the kitchen with and apron on and carrying another over his shoulder. "Hey, could you help me out, an extra pair of hands would really speed things up."
"Sure, no problem." Helen had trouble tying the apron, so Michael helped her. She was surprised at how quickly he could cut the ingredients. "The real reason I wanted you in here was so we could talk."
"What about?"
"I...I wanted to thank you."
"Oh, no problem, don't worry about it."
"I do. If it hadn't been for you, Jana would have been on her own. I owe you."
"Like I said, don't worry about it."
"There was one other thing. About that kiss..."
"Don't worry; I won't tell anyone, it was probably nothing, probably."
"Actually, I was going to ask, well I thought that, maybe..."
"He wants to ask you to go out with him."
"Jana! How many times have I told you not to eavesdrop!?" Jenna giggled and skittered out of the room. Michael, focused on the vegetables he was dicing, had a slight red tinge to his cheeks. Helen looked at the floor. "Sure."
"What?"
"Sure, I'll go out with you. Actually, I kind of had a crush on you since we met." Michael smiled sheepishly, and finished the meal. "Alright, chicken soup."
"Aw, I wanted chicken fingers!"
"Well you've got soup." Jana smiled, and Helen could tell this was a common occurrence. They ate and talked. Jana would occasionally reach out to feel one of them, just for some kind of reassurance. Jana finally got a good picture in her head of what Helen looked like. Helen noticed that Jana didn't know that she or her brother had silver hair; she thought their hair was blond. "Alright, bed time!"
"What!? No! I don't wanna!"
"Don't wanna, but gotta, get to bed."
"Meanie!"
"Oh, I'm hurt, oh no, I'm hurt bad!"
"Okay, I'll go, but don't you stay up all night with your girlfriend!" Michael brought Helen back to the living room. "So, how did you end up in S3?"
"My parents, they were killed in an attack by the demons. I lost my left arm from the elbow down, Jana lost her eyesight. We only had enough money for one procedure, and Jana was only one year old. I needed my other hand to do any kind of work, so I decided that I'd just take care of her to repay her for giving up her sight so I could work to feed the both of us. The day after they died, our hair turned silver. Only a month ago, I was contacted with an offer to come here. It was an opportunity to give Jana and myself a good education, and the pay was better than the best, so it didn't take me long to decide. The problem is, Jana’s become too used to being blind. According to doctors, she might not be able to handle the shock of seeing again. Damn it, I'm a pathetic older brother."
"No you're not. You're one of the best older brothers I've ever seen. You did all of this, put yourself in danger, just to give your little sister a chance at a better life." Helen scooted closer to him on the couch, leaning against him. "Maybe, but I can't help feeling like I don't deserve this, like I've chanced into someone else's life, or that this is all a dream."
"What? You're saying I'm a dream?"
"You're every guys dream, at least the sane ones." They kissed for a long time. The sun had already set. What happened next was a blur in Helen’s memory. She remembered kissing, and walking to Michael's room, and spending a wonderful night.
Helen awoke the next morning, naked under the sheets of Michael's bed. She found a shirt, and put it on. It was just long enough to cover her decently, which meant it was likely Michael's. She walked out of his room and was blinded by glaring sunlight. "Hey beautiful.” Michael stood. “Don't worry; Jana’s already gone to school."
"It's not her I'm worried about, it's you." Michael knew she was teasing him, but he played along. "Well, I'm not the type to kiss and tell."
"Problem is we did a whole lot more than kiss."
"Don't worry. As long as this doesn't affect our performance on the battlefield, no one will care."
"Allen will, he was eyeing me up since he first saw me, shallow prick."
"Don't worry, if he causes problems I'll take care of it. I'll do whatever you want."
"What I want right now is a kiss."
"You got it." Helen returned to Michael's room and got properly dressed. Michael was still walking around in a towel tied around his waist. "Why don't you get dressed?"
"Because none of my pants are big enough for the..."
"Whoa there big boy. I get your point." Michael laughed. Helen looked at him, taking in all the scars it had been too dark to see last night. "So, all of those scars are from..."
"Yes, the bastard demon that killed my parents and blinded my sister. He even took my arm, you can't see the reattachment scar anymore, unless you look real close." Helen grabbed his arm and pulled it close to her. She could faintly see the thin line that ran in a perfect circle around Michael's left forearm. She looked up at his face, which was blank. She knew he was hiding his emotions, trying to protect her, dissuade her from asking for details. It didn't work. "What happened?" Michael frowned. "Are you sure you want to know?"
"Definitely." Michael sighed. He rubbed his forehead with his free arm; Helen was clutching the other tight. "We, my parents and I, we used to live here, in this city. Like I said, Jana was born a year before the-the Demon Gate opened. We only had time to hole up in our apartment before everything went dead. We stayed there for a week. My-my parents, we were running out of food, they knew we had to find more. God damn it! Th-they opened the door, and right there was a Demon. I managed to cover Jana’s eyes just-just before it killed them, but I didn't have time to look away. It-it killed my father first. I, please, don't make me tell you about it." Helen held Michael's arm even tighter. "It's okay. Skip that part, if you need to." Michael suddenly changed. He had been shaking just a moment before, but now a new, cold resolve came over him. "My father, he was ripped limb from limb. It only took moments, but it was long enough for me to hear him scream. My mother, if you can use the word to refer to a demon, it killed her rather quickly. It just, just crushed her head, like one of us might squish and ant. Then it came after Jana and me. I tried to stop it, but, well, what the fuck could an eight year old do against a demon? The big thing took my arm off like it was brushing off some dirt. Hurt like hell, but I was more worried about Jana. The thing stood over her, looking right at her. Next thing I know, the monster it a big bloody stain on the wall, my arm isn't bleeding anymore, and Jana’s eyes are white." Helen paused. "What happened, did you find out?" Michael nodded. "This happened." He lifted his free arm, and in his right palm, a sphere of flame formed. Helen was speechless. "The professor thinks that my genetic code reacted to the presence of the demon, and activated something that had been long dormant. The best term he can think of for it is magic, but I prefer to think of it as..."
"Please, just let me think its magic." Michael grinned, and nodded. She felt something poking at her chest, and looked down, seeing Michael's finger. "Perv."
"Hey, I can't help it. It's kind of like trying not to touch a beautiful flower that you love with all your heart."
"So, you're comparing my breasts to flowers." Michael laughed again, and then kissed her. "No, I'm comparing you to a flower, a very beautiful flower."
"Careful or you might have to sleep with me again."
"I've got no problem with that." Helen grinned and ended up under the covers, naked again. This time Michael was next to her, however. She could feel his warmth right next to hers. She felt incredibly content.
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