Mobile Fighter Evangelion [NGE/AU/Not a Gundam crossover]

[Ultra Sonic 007]

Howdy.

Some of you who also post on SpaceBattles already know what this is about.

For others?

I began Mobile Fighter Evangelion back in 2010, inspired during the heyday of Gregg Landsman's Nobody Dies. I would post snippets on SpaceBattles, then the final version on FF.Net. Since then, the story has died twice: once in 2012, where it wasn't touched until March 2015...and then again in October 2015, where it wasn't touched until earlier this May. And now it's getting close to the end.

So although this is kind of a little late, I'd still like to share it with everyone. So...in the lead-up to the two-part finale, I will be posting all finished episodes leading up to Episode 31. Episode 30 is currently in progress.

But what started this story?

Believe it or not...it was a Dark Horse ad, years ago, featuring this image:



Long ago (as a young lad when Pokemon was first popular in America, during the era of Red/Blue), I caught notice of advertisements for the Evangelion manga on the back of a Pokemon comic. It featured this iconic image of Shinji Ikari, Rei Ayanami, and Asuka Langley Sohryu standing side-by-side, with Unit-01's face looming in the background.

The image codified my perception of their personalities, thinking of it as a standard, if popular, Giant Robot anime. Shinji as the Goku-esque Determinator, Rei as the snarky and icy-cold Drill Sergeant McNasty, and Asuka as the innocent, happy-go-lucky comic relief.

Imagine my shock when I saw the anime years later. Waaaay off.

But it all led to this: an AU story with some twists on the characters, plenty of shout-outs, lots of action, elements of Black Lagoon and Team Fortress 2, Ritsuko as a Mad Scientist in the vein of Dr. Weird, a Gendo who is actually a somewhat decent father, and Pen-Pen piloting a Gundam.

Brief shout-outs to Gregg Landsman (for the one who inspired me to begin with), along with SpaceBattlers AmIADream and K9TheFirst for their help long ago in story ideas. The names of characters Tomoe, Alicia, and Annette Ikari - the fanon uncle, aunt, and cousin of Shinji Ikari - are used with permission from Gregg Landsman (though their takes are different from their Nobody Dies incarnation). Likewise, Dr. Mondschein and the premise of NERV-Alaska is used with permission from AmIADream.

I hope you all enjoy. Cause it's been one heck of a ride.

xxxx

/September 15, 2015/

/Test Chamber AGTT, NERV-1, Tokyo-3, Japan/

"Initiate activation system, Phase Two!"

"Pilot link-up initiated. Synapse inserted, nerve junctions connected!"

"All circuits are online; all nerve links check out normal!"

"Preparing for 3rd stage connection; nearing absolute borderline!"

"Zero-point-seven…zero-point-five…zero-point-three…zero-point-one…"

The calm, periodic beeping suddenly transformed into a roaring klaxon. The orderly build-up of lights and sound reversed in a chaotic fashion, inciting panic.

"IMPULSES ARE FLOWING BACKWARDS!"

The sound of wrenching metal.

"WE HAVE REJECTION OF THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM!"

"The emergency shut-down signal's been ignored! UNIT-00'S MOVING ON ITS OWN!"

Professor Gendo Ikari resisted the urge to call the tech an idiot. He could see the Evangelion moving just fine, thank you very much.

A crash of male and female voices echoed through the monitoring station around him, the pale halogen lights contrasting with the flashing yellows, reds, and
greens of the equipment. Through the reinforced safety glass, the same shade of orange as his glasses, he could see the equally-orange Unit-00 breaking free of its restraints.

An animalistic roar echoed through the white test chamber, the Evangelion gripping its head as if stricken by a migraine.

To be fair though, given the exact mechanical, biological, and metaphysical processes occurring, he couldn't blame the titanic weapon of war.

Hydraulics and timed explosives propelled the power plug from the Evangelion's back, whereupon it crashed onto the floor.

The beast still moved.

"Thirty seconds of battery power remaining!"

"It's gone berserk! Get away from the windows!"

As if in response to what little time it had left, the Evangelion smashed its fist into the reinforced glass. Simultaneously, a long white cylinder rocketed out of
the back of the Evangelion's neck, rockets slamming into the corner where it futilely tried to escape. Unmindful of this, the orange giant continued to attack.

"The Entry Plug has been jettisoned!"

"The Evangelion's still moving!"

The titan's red eye seemed to focus on everyone in the room.

The techs and scientists backed away; Gendo remained stalwart.

Until he stepped aside, right as the metallic fist crashed into the monitoring station. Unit-00's roars were painfully loud, Gendo casually noted. "Rather feisty, aren't you?"

Suddenly, the titan retreated, hands clutching its head before it began to ram the wall repeatedly. The cyclops's eye began to fracture as it continued to headbutt the wall, over and over and over and OVER-

"Ibuki! Start the bakelite suppression system!"

"Yes senpai!"

"Ibuki, get me a preliminary diagnostic of the First Child's condition!"

"Yes ma'am!"

Red streams of synthetic polymer guzzled out of the walls, encasing the mad beast in a rapidly-solidifying plastic.

Then, in a sudden fit of silence, Unit-00 stopped.

"Power's out."

Gendo Ikari quietly looked out the window at the cylinder sitting listlessly on the floor. "What's the pilot's condition?"

"Shaken up, sir; we've got some simple fractures on the left side, but she seems to be conscious otherwise."

Without saying another word, Gendo reached into the folds of his cloak and pulled out what looked like a large pistol of sorts, save for the presence of a reel containing yards of a polymer-based tether and a metallic plate was attached to the barrel. With the pull of the trigger, it shot the plate out at high speed towards the ceiling, tether trailing behind. A loud clunk echoed through the air as it clung to the metal tile.

Gendo calmly swung out the window, his weight causing the tether to lengthen. As he lowered himself to the floor, he took note of the sounds emanating from the Entry Plug. It sounded akin to…frustrated pounding.

With a simple flip of a switch (where the safety lock would normally be, by the trigger), the plate demagnetized and fell, right as Gendo's feet touched the ground. Holding the Mag-Gun above his head, the Professor calmly let the tether reel the plate in with an audible snap and click before advancing towards the cylinder.

BANG. BANG. BANG.

A white-clad foot kicked the door open. Sounds of muffled grunting could be heard as the pilot gingerly extracted herself from the Entry Plug. Clothed in a skintight bodysuit of white, the girl ignored the streams of orange fluid in her blue hair before quietly standing up, heavily favoring her left leg. The girl's red eyes, calm and cool – despite the growls of pain that rumbled through her throat – focused immediately on the Professor.

Then she saluted. "Sir! Apologies for the failed activation, sir!"

"…" Gendo sighed, his eyes hidden by his orange shades. "It's not your fault. We didn't anticipate Unit-00's…visceral reaction." He brought a hand up to his ear, pressing a switch on a hidden earpiece. "Akagi."

"Sir?"

"Get medical attention for the Sergeant."

"On it sir!"

Grunting (and sounding rather irritated), Gendo looked down at Rei. Still standing, despite the obvious pain. "At ease."

"Yes sir!" Rei calmly lied down, letting her broken limbs splay out along the white floor. The smell of bakelite mixed with LCL, giving the air a pungent, industrial odor. "…permission to speak freely, sir?"

"Granted."

"Sir…the Third Angel is predicted to appear in less than two weeks."

"Reminding me of information I already know doesn't tell me what you want to know, Sergeant."

"Acknowledged sir, but…what if my body does not heal in time?"

"For now, you wait for medics. The situation is under control, as always." With that, Gendo turned on his heels, his navy blue cloak fluttering behind him as he walked towards the personnel door at the bottom of the test chamber. Looking back one last time at Unit-00's immobile form, he pressed his earpiece.

"Fuyutsuki."

"Yes Professor?"

"…we have a situation."

"…have we lost control?"

"No. We have less than I'd like though."

"Is something wrong with the First Child?"

"She won't be able to pilot effectively in time for the Third Angel." As he spoke, Gendo entered the personnel door, setting foot into the small elevator that would return him to the monitoring station.

"That's…not good."

"Fortunately, I have a back-up plan."

"You've told me about your back-up plan. You've never wanted to use it."

"You were simply allowing an old student to indulge in some fantasy. In reality, he and I both knew that this day would come, when he would return to Tokyo-3."

"You just wish that the reunion would have been delayed."

"Forgive a man for wanting his son to enjoy his last days of peace."

A hearty laugh. "It always pleases me to hear you getting parental. Reminds me that you're still human."

"Just send the message. It should already be programmed with what I have to say."

"Yes sir, Professor."

Having said that, Gendo remained silent as he stared the clear windows of the elevator. As it ascended, his piercing eyes took in Rei Ayanami being attended to by a pair of medics. Looming behind her was Unit-00, the hardened bakelite making it seem like a dreaded behemoth imprisoned against its will.

How true that was. "Well Yui…it seems like we'll be seeing our son sooner than I thought."

xxxx

(Cue A Cruel Angel's Thesis)

Ultra Sonic 007 presents…

(The image of three Evangelions – one blue, one violet, one red – appears in the background)

A Dreaming Landsman-K9 Production...

(In front of each Evangelion, respectfully, is a stern, frowning Rei Ayanami, a determined, stalwart Shinji Ikari, and a grinning, skipping Asuka Langley Sohryu)



Evangelion: The NORMAL Giant Robot Anime…

(The Pilots and the Evangelions flash and vanish, replaced by the Giant of Light before everything dims to black…)​

xxxx

Episode 1: Reunion

xxxx

(Running low on time, so I'll post the rest later.)

(But yeah. This is the intro.)

(More to come.)

 

[Ultra Sonic 007]

And here's the rest.

xxxx

/September 20, 2015/

/Shores of Sagami Bay, Japan/

Sweltering. To anyone who had lived in Japan during the 20th century, they would have complained about another hot summer day.

Now, thanks to Second Impact, no one could make the distinction between one day or another. Every day was just as hot as the last.

People had gotten used to it. Just as Japan had gotten used to the idea of the original Tokyo being a submerged ruin, courtesy of a nuclear bomb on this date fifteen years ago. They had gotten used to the idea of having an active military, defending their territorial waters and stabilizing chaotic situations throughout the regions of Asia and Oceania. They had gotten used to the idea of the United Nations, following the Impact Wars, exerting greater control over the affairs of the world's nations.

However, they had not gotten used to the idea of seeing a massive military mobilization on their homeland itself.

The Japanese Strategic Self-Defense Force. The largest branch of the Japanese military under the command of the Defense Ministry, the JSSDF was capable of engaging in high-risk combat scenarios. They ranked among the elite military units of the world, and almost all of its members had gone on tours of duty during the Impact Wars. Hardened, capable, and deadly.

Right now, a contingent of tanks and Heavy Fighter Jet-VTOLs were facing the shimmering blue sea, awaiting the monstrosity that sonar indicated was on its way here. The 7th Air Wing, hosted out of the Edo Memorial Air Base (located at the new shoreline where the Ibaraki Airport used to be), hovered in position. Armed with a combination of air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles (because, really, why take chances?), well over one-hundred-and-fifty HFJ-VTOLs awaited the Angel. Stationed along the various road ways by the sea were lines of tanks, staggered in two rows so as to enable for evasive maneuvering. Stationary artillery cannons and mobile rocket platforms were all on standby.

This didn't even begin to cover the defenses of Tokyo-3; this was just the first line.

Silently, patiently, they waited.

The blue skies, mirrored by the glittering ocean water, belied the slaughter that was about to occur.

The titan emerged from the deep, its form shrouded by a geyser.

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Various holograms seemed to hover in the air, presenting a detailed and real-time (for the most part; satellites were scarcer than they were prior to the Impact Wars, so their usage was heavily regulated by the United Nations) look at the battlefield. Approximately six miles of fortified land sat between Tokyo-3 and the expected point of contact. It went without saying that much of the JSSDF brass was eager to stop it before it got to Tokyo-3.

A fool's dare.

Gendo couldn't help but wonder if the various generals and admirals sitting above him ever tired of cleaning their relatively superfluous medals. Their presence here was, to be frank, a distraction; conventional weapons wouldn't do a thing to an Angel.

Yet they still tried. "I will offer you one last chance, gentlemen. Cede control of this operation to NERV, and you can leave us to our duty."

A slight widening of the nostrils, shifting of the shoulders, narrowed eyes…they were visibly frustrated by the shot at their pride. Understandable; all of them had served with honor and conviction during the Impact Wars. Needless to say, they were quite galled by the perceived slight against the JSSDF. "And we will not cede control of this operation unless ordered so by either the Defense Minister or the Prime Minister. Only then; until that happens, this is an SSDF operation." An elderly man – eyes holding no small measure of contempt for the civilian that dared to bark so loudly – scowled, the angry look offsetting the pristine green of his uniform. "We'd rather trust that which has proven itself in battle instead of an experimental toy."

Yes, quite galled indeed.

However, that they dared to think they could sit upon their pedestals and cast a condescending eye upon NERV (upon his work, HIS territory) was in itself rather galling. "Very well then. I was under the impression that veterans of the Impact Wars had misgivings about casually throwing away soldiers' lives. I suppose even I can make mistakes."

The angry mutterings and scornful glares did little to appease Gendo. He simply turned around, facing the images being broadcast from the shores at the sea. The cool air of the Operations Deck was rife with tension, especially given the energy readings coming from the Angel that was now approaching the mainland.

Alas, he already knew the ending to this story; if it were an actual book for sale, he would've parted with it for free. Perhaps a single Yen, at best. "Fuyutsuki, I'll be seeing to more important things. Contact me when these 'gentlemen' acquiesce."

"Of course Professor," remarked NERV's Sub-Director.

Gendo calmly departed the Operations Deck, heading towards the chambers containing Evangelion Unit-01. It wasn't long before he could hear shouts of indignation and disbelief by the JSSDF officers behind him; apparently, their first line of tanks had already been vaporized. However, he had more important things to ponder.

For one thing, what was he going to do when he saw his son? And how dramatic would he have to be?

Hmm. Perhaps I'll check on the Sergeant first.

xxxx

/Nagano-Hakone Line, Outskirts of Tokyo-3/

"A national emergency has been declared in the Kanto and Chūbu Regions as of 12:30 PM. All citizens are to remain at their designated shelter until the emergency has been lifted."

And I'm the only one who's actually trying to get closer.

Ironic. The high-speed rail, designed and invented to ferry thousands upon thousands people at once and as fast as possible across Japan, held only one passenger, one who didn't mind if the train took a little bit longer reaching his destination.

No, no, that wouldn't quite be the literal meaning of irony; he could imagine his Aunt Alicia lecturing him now on why it was important to have clarity and focus in one's choice of words. She had been a good teacher; a bit overzealous, sure, but good nonetheless. Then Uncle Tomoe, self-described champion of common sense, would harp on Alicia for hanging on to the literal meaning of irony when everyone else understood what he meant. His aunt and uncle
would then get into a protracted argument that his cousin Annette would describe as 'entirely silly' before dragging him outside to go scavenger hunting with the neighbors and-

He shook his head, clearing away the fond memories. Look at me. I'm about to see my father again and I'm fantasizing about my old home. Then again, the only time he saw the man on a continual basis was whenever that day rolled around.

The day his mother had died.

"Seven years," muttered the boy, gazing outside the windows of the cabin. As the only passenger on the automated rail, he looked rather small. It didn't help that he seemed overdressed for the occasion; a light blue shirt was matched with a finely pressed navy blue suit, the latter of which clearly made for someone with a larger frame. Black leather shoes and a matching belt would have made him look sharp and distinctive, were it not for his somewhat lanky build. Brown hair – on the verge between a casual and a messy bowl cut – framed a rather feminine face.

Yes, Shinji Ikari had often been mistaken as a girl. Much to his irritation and the amusement of his cousin. Fortunately, if his father's old childhood pictures had been any indication, it wouldn't be long until he finally got some facial hair.

…am I really thinking about facial hair at a time like this? Shinji plopped back in the chair, groaning due to the futility of it all. His thoughts had been like this for the past few days, ever since he had gotten the message from his father.

At least his father was just as 'eccentric' as ever.

xxxx

/September 16, 2015/

/Outskirts of Okayama-2/

One man's misfortune is another man's chance.

If one were cynical, one could call the household of Tomoe and Alicia Ikari a chance that had been the misfortune of thousands.

Following Second Impact, the regions of Chūgoku, Shikoku, and Kyūshū had taken a beating by three tsunamis and at least four earthquakes. Most of the survivors had retreated further inland, where the Japanese government had shored up their presence, thus ensuring some measure of safety from the societal breakdown that had gripped most of the world's nations. It wasn't until July of 2004 that the government had stabilized enough to reassert control over the entirety of the Japanese mainland.

Tomoe Ikari, smelling a good bargain in real estate, had moved his family from a cluttered Tokyo-2 to the open regions outside of what had once been Okayama (now Okayama-1 under the standard nomenclature). The climate had already been quite warm prior to Impact, so the climactic changes that had gripped Japan were simply more of the same for denizens of Okayama-2. There had even been enough land to maintain some white peach trees and
grape vines, near the mountainous regions north of Okayama-1. Add in the booming industry of scuba tours – the coastal portions of Okayama-1 were completely submerged after an earthquake had split the city in twain – and Okayama-2 was a relatively wonderful place to be.

Which was why Gendo had entrusted his in-laws to the care of his son.

At least Annette had had a playmate to boss around.

"Come on, Shinji-kun! We're losing daylight here!"

"You could HELP more," groaned Shinji as he tried to pull a wagon laden with rusted junk, broken antiques, and waterlogged knick-knacks. The dirt road that led towards Okayama-1 was not conducive to the large red wagon, but the main roads were still too busy. All in all, it was just another afternoon in the ruins of a world before Impact. "Aunt Alicia's getting tired of all the stuff piling up in the shed."

Annette sighed in a theatrical manner, annoyed by the implication that her collection was nothing but junk. "It's history! They're the remains of what life was like Pre-Impact, and I for one am not going to throw it away."

"She didn't say anything about throwing it away though."

"The intent's obvious."

"…how?"

"It's a girl thing. You wouldn't understand."

"I've lived with you and Aunt Alicia for the last seven years. I think I know at least a little."

Annette actually laughed at that. Her laughter could get surprisingly deep for someone with such a thin build, but beneath the features inherited by her Caucasian mother, the blonde had a rough and gruff approach to life that her father had made his trademark. Given what Uncle Tomoe looked like, that was no surprise (honestly, Shinji was STILL surprised that his cousin wasn't taller, given how much of a giant Tomoe was). "Silly silly boy, you'll never understand women. No man has EVER understood women, nor shall they!"

In a manner that would make Tomoe Ikari proud, Shinji just rolled his eyes, used to his cousin's boisterous acting. Being the best actress in the school's theater club would do that to a girl. "Whatever."

"Mah, you're so boring," muttered Annette. "Ah well…" She laced her hands behind her head, fingers fiddling with her ponytail as thoughts turned to dinner. "So Shinji-kun…what do you think mom's making for dinner?" There was still a good kilometer to go until they reached their home, and the sun was already calling it a day. Soon the stars would take their shift. "I hope she doesn't make nattō…I'd prefer sashimi, wouldn't you?"

No answer.

"Shinji-kun?"

Nothing.

Annette turned around, seeing that Shinji had stopped. Something in the sky had caught his attention: a bright white star.

A star that was…getting closer?

Uh oh.

The projectile roared overhead, slamming into ground amidst a thicket of trees. The collision kicked up dust and sound, the shockwave causing their ribs to quiver. A brief moment of terror gripped them, wondering if another war had decided to come knocking.

Moments passed, and nothing but silence answered their fear.

"…Annette?"

"Yes Shinji-kun?"

"…what was that?"

"…I don't know…let's find out!"

Shinji groaned.

The two of them quietly snuck off of the dirt path, following the trench that the apparent meteorite had made. "I wonder if we can somehow drag it to the house…"

"…that's the one thing you're wondering about?"

Annette shot Shinji a dirty look. "No sense of fantasy? No sense of adventure? No sense of daring-do?"

"…adventure's fine if you're properly prepared. I mean, would you jump off a bridge without a bungee cord? Or a cliff without a parachute?"

"…"

"So there."

"Shut up Shinji-kun," grumbled Annette as they finally reached the fallen projectile. The possibilities of what it could be were narrowed immediately by the spherical perfection of the object. "…a probe? A satellite? AWESOME."

The dust settled more, and another feature became visible: a red leaf.

Shinji's eyes widened. He'd recognize that logo anywhere. "NERV?"

"Vocal profile recognized: Ikari, Shinji," chirped the sphere, causing both children to jump. The voice was bubbly and cheerful, like that of a prepubescent girl. Or Annette when she had first tried drama as a ten-year-old. "You are the recipient of an automated message from NERV. Since potentially-classified material is contained in this message, the medium of suborbital rail gun was used for delivery, to prevent possible interception by unwanted parties."

Shinji and Annette stared. "…sub…orbital…rail gun?" The blonde turned towards her cousin. "Did I hear that right?"

"Yes you did."

"…is this your father's doing?"

"Probably." He actually wasn't surprised; this seemed to be fairly standard for his father. "I think the main reason he did it like this was so he could get my attention."

"If damage to person or property was dealt by this message receptacle, the appropriate form for filing a damages claim to NERV can be found in the compartment labeled 'A' beneath the projector."

"…have I bothered to tell you that your dad's insane?"

"No, but Uncle Tomoe tells me that enough for the two of you, so you're covered."

"Begin message."

The orb cracked open in a seamless manner, revealing a lens that emitted a blue light. The projected hologram took on a familiar form that Annette boggled at. "Shinji…is that-?"

"Hello…Shinji."

"Father…" Shinji was honestly aghast at the sight of the blue-tinted image of his father, clad in his familiar cloak and shades. The image brought back both fond and painful memories.

"The time has come for us to fulfill our promises to each other." The image flickered, replaced by that of a long-haired woman in a jacket and a short dress suit that went down to her thighs. On her head was a beret, and a cross dangled from her necklace. "This is Lieutenant Colonel Misato Katsuragi. She will be the one to pick you up upon your arrival to Tokyo-3. Open Compartment 'B'."

Shinji immediately did so, seeing a number of paper forms inside, along with twenty thousand yen and a NERV badge. A badge with his photo on it, surprisingly. "…huh…?" Didn't I have this photo taken at the amusement park three months ago?

The image of Misato flickered back to that of Gendo's. "Follow the instructions on the paper forms and you should make it to Tokyo-3 with little difficulty." The man paused, as if hesitant. "I look forward to seeing you in person."

"…father…" Shinji looked at the materials in his hands, mind numb with disbelief. Seven years.

Seven years since he had been left here by his father. Seven years of peace. Seven years with a loving and supportive family.

The anticipation of seeing his father again was almost overwhelmed by the anxiety of the inevitable meeting and what this message entailed for him. I'm going back…so it's finally happening.

The Angels were coming.

"Before you leave…" continued Gendo, as if remembering something. "Tell Alicia and Tomoe that I said thank you."

"You know, for a crazy person, he's actually kind of considerate," remarked Annette, feeling a little better despite the impromptu message from the heavens. True, she had seen the man a few times, but only whenever he made his annual visit to whisk Shinji away to Tokyo-3 for a few days. Given everything her dad had had to say about the man, she'd expected someone a little more…insane.

"Because of my gratitude for their hard work, I'm giving you a head start."

Shinji and Annette blinked.

"Personally, I've always felt that Tomoe's yard could use a crater. I feel that they add…character. He could tell the neighbors that Third Impact happened on his property, but was beaten back by his bare hands. Everyone will be awed. Men will bow before him and women will flock to him. The sheer jealousy that Alicia will feel will prompt her to give him the romantic night to end all romantic nights."

Shinji and Annette blinked some more.

"So really, I'm doing him a favor."

Shinji sighed as Annette's eye twitched. NOW her dad's complaints made sense.

"You have thirty seconds. Good luck."

The image of Gendo was replaced with a hologram of a timer set to thirty.

Shinji and Annette stared.

Twenty-nine.

They bolted.

The only other sound that could be heard when the pod exploded was that of Annette cursing Gendo Ikari as the shockwave sent the two cousins tumbling.

Well, at least he hasn't changed, thought Shinji as he tried to pry Annette out of the ground.

That could only be a good thing, right?

xxxx

…hopefully. Uncle Tomoe had NOT been of the same opinion, unsurprisingly.

"Now arriving at Tokyo-3 Station."

Shinji fidgeted in his seat, realizing that the train was about to stop. This is it. The young teenager quietly got out of his seat, his trepidation increasing as quickly as the rail was slowing down. This is what you've been waiting for…

Yet, it had also been something he had dreaded. He had NO clue as to what exactly he was going to fight; only that they were of the same class of creatures as the one that had caused Second Impact. Going up against something like that…I'll have help though, rationalized the boy. An entire city's worth of defensive weaponry behind him, along with the genius and tactical assistance of NERV.

His father would be there.

I mustn't run away, I mustn't run away, I mustn't run away…

He thought of his mother's smiling face.

With that thought, Shinji stood just a little bit taller, those few centimeters making a world of difference as he looked resolutely at the doors.

I won't run away.

The doors opened, and Shinji stepped foot into Tokyo-3.

SCREEEEEEEECH!

"GAH!" yelped Shinji, his somewhat-stirring growth in confidence taking a back seat to shock, surprise, and any other emotion that fell under 'What just happened?'

A blazing red motorcycle had screeched to a halt on the concrete platform. With a frame of sleek red polymer, glistening metal, and smooth curves, the bike was a man-made beast. The growling of the engine certainly gave off that impression.

It also complimented the biker's red jacket. She glanced at him over black shades, long purple hair framing a face that could pull off the ultimate 'come hither' look. "Shinji Ikari, I presume?"

"Er…yes…" The hologram he had seen in the message was practically identical. At least the image now had color. "Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi?"

"Please, call me Misato!" The woman shifted forward on the black leather seat, a long, slender leg providing balance for the still vehicle. "Get behind me and hang on tight, okay?"

Shinji blinked in response to the order, still somewhat perplexed (and mesmerized, if you were to ask him for an honest opinion) by this downright beautiful woman's sudden appearance. "Um…okay…" Shinji carefully sat down on the seat, gingerly wrapping his arms around the Lieutenant Colonel's torso. "Like this?"

"Mm-hmm! You can feel me up if you want to."

Shinji recognized that playful tone. He had heard it time after time from Annette, and it meant only one thing: Katsuragi was deliberately trying to get a rise out of him. He could have resisted. Could have being the operative phrase, given that Misato was as hot as a pistol, and none too shy about flaunting it. "Grk!"

Misato giggled as she revved the bike. "Ah, boys. So easy." The wheels screeched as she spun about, redirecting the motorcycle out of the Tokyo-3 Station. "So Shinji, I take it your trip here went smoothly?"

"Well, um…" Shinji gulped, trying to regain his composure. Thoughts of his uncle helped. "Uncle Tomoe was really upset by my father's message…at least, the way it got there." That was the understatement of the century. "But we all talked about it, and…well, I had to come. Then we took care of the transfer papers to the school here in Tokyo-3, I said goodbye to friends and acquaintances…and I left on Friday night."

"Two nights ago, huh?" Misato frowned as she veered onto the main highway, the city of Tokyo-3 looming in the background. "You sure got through the Tokyo-2 checkpoints pretty quickly."

"It was the NERV badge my father sent me."

"Well, that explains it."

"It doesn't explain how he got my picture for it."

"Doesn't he have photos of you?"

"It's a photo that was taken at Okayama Land three months ago."

"…"

"I'll just chalk it up to my father being…well, my father."

"That's pretty much how I get by." Misato tilted her head, briefly looking back at her passenger. Kind of smaller than I'd thought he'd be. Then again, she shouldn't judge a book by its cover; Professor Gendo Ikari, despite his…quirks…was the Supreme Commander of the world's only defense against the Angels. You couldn't get to that position without cunning, savvy, and a fair bit of deviousness. If this little guy's remotely like him, it's gonna get real interesting around here. "So, you know why you're here?"

"…yes."

"Oh?"

"I'm here to pilot Evangelion Unit-01…to fight the Angels."

Misato frowned, resisting the urge to do a double-take. That the boy knew that much wasn't much of a surprise (after all, Professor Ikari would have to be a REAL bastard to not even give his own son an inkling of what to expect); rather, it was how casual he talked about it. "And you're…okay with this?"

Shinji resisted the urge to scratch the back of his head. "Well, I don't know exactly what I'm getting into, to be honest…" Old times and memories of halcyon days came to mind. "My father and I…we both made a promise to each other. That's all there is to it."

Sure, thought Misato, suspicion visible on her features. I wonder how much he actually knows about Project E? Not that she knew everything herself, but the kid's behavior was tamer than she had expected it to be.

The road suddenly began to vibrate. Moments later, it rumbled again. "Misato…did you feel that?"

"Well kid, if you know why you're here, you better get a good look at what you're about to fight." Misato brought the bike to a halt, staring at the nearby mountain range to the east. VTOLs could be seen hovering over the expanse, firing enough munitions to level Tokyo-1 all over again.

Their target calmly stepped beyond the mountains, as if oblivious to the missiles being fired at it.

It was humanoid in shape, yet bearing no characteristics that could be deemed 'human'. Its body was forest green in color, and easily over twenty stories tall. It had long, lanky arms that went past the knees, ending in three segmented talons. Spiky protrusions of bone could be seen all over its form, seeming to mimic ribs and shoulder blades. Thick carapaces of the same bone-colored material covered the hips and shoulders, as if it were armor. Singular lances protruded from the elbows, sharp enough to impale VTOLs (which they were doing, coincidentally). The face was a simple white mask with eyeholes; the only distinguishing feature was the sharp beak extending from the bottom, which gave off the impression of a bird's skull as a child would perceive it. However, the most eye-catching characteristic was the giant red orb lodged into the monster's sternum.

Shinji gaped at the sheer size of the behemoth. "That's…the Angel?"

"The Third Angel," remarked Misato, thoughts spinning as she tried to recall their current position. Only a few miles away from the nearest Geofront access junction…but we're between the Angel and Tokyo-3. "It's going to be coming our way."

Shinji didn't really have anything to say, given that he was still staring at the giant. So this was what his parents had prepared for: fighting monsters that seemed far more intimidating than Gojira could ever hope to be. "Er…shouldn't we be going now…?"

The Angel blinked owlishly at the VTOLs before turning towards the duo. The eyeholes on the face seemed to contract upon seeing them.

"Misato…?"

It was actually looking at them.

"Um…"

A yellow light seemed to emerge out of nowhere, illuminating the space about the Third Angel. With the faintest of motions, the titan leapt into the air, a strange moan warbling throughout the outskirts of Tokyo-3.

"FLOOR IT!"

Misato twisted the handlebar, the bike's engine snarling as she drove towards the Angel.

"Misato, WRONG WAY!"

"Let me drive Shinji," growled Misato as the Third Angel got closer and closer-

"MISATO!"

The duo barely avoided the Angel's feet. The roadway crumbled under its weight, forcing Misato to weave back and forth to avoid the new pitfalls. Not to be deterred, the Angel aimed its palms at the ground.

KREEN!

With a high-pitched shriek, violet lances erupted from the Angel's palms, trying to impale Shinji and Misato.

"Gah, MISATO!" Shinji's eyes darted back and forth between the lances, feeling as though lightning was trying to strike them. One mishap and they would be pulverized. Though, to be honest, Misato's absolutely insane driving was almost as bad. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"

"Keeping us alive." Misato immediately veered to the right, ducking into an alleyway.

Less than a second later, the Angel's lances impacted the foundations of the buildings on both sides, causing them to crumble inwards. Shinji screamed as the alleyway began to collapse.

Misato quickly pressed a blue button by the acceleration handle, prompting an injection of nitrous oxide into the intake valve.

FWOOM.

Misato and Shinji shot out of the alleyway like a bullet, barely avoiding being crushed by the collapsing buildings. However, the sheer speed meant that, even with countersteering, Misato couldn't turn too quickly without wiping out. She was slowly curving towards the nearest building, prompting Shinji to scream for dear life.

Misato only smirked as her left thumb hovered over a red button. "Hang on tight and lean forward!" She pressed it.

The frame of the motorcycle, situated over the front wheel, suddenly opened up to reveal a pair of small thrusters that extended to the sides by two feet each. Misato twisted the right handlebar, manipulating the axle that the thrusters were situated on until they were aiming towards the ground.

Shinji, meanwhile, couldn't help but stare at the looming wall. "MISATO?"

She pressed the red button again.

With a furious howl, the thrusters ignited, lifting the front of the motorcycle into the air. At that precise moment, Misato leaned to the left, allowing the front wheel to come in contact with the side of the wall. With uncanny precision, the Lieutenant Colonel twisted the right handlebar just as the back wheel came into contact with the wall, causing the thrusters to press the wheels AGAINST the building's rock-hard surface. As she was doing this, she
pressed the blue button again with her left hand, injecting more N2O into the engine.

FWOOOM!

The combination of these factors – sufficient thrust to press the bike against the building, leaning forward to reduce air resistance, and enough speed to propel the bike forward despite gravity and friction – was what enabled Misato Katsuragi to figuratively and literally drive Shinji up a wall.

The young boy couldn't help but boggle as the motorcycle neared the edge of the building's side. At the moment, they were over fifteen stories high. "Oh crap oh crap oh crap oh crap oh crap oh crap oh crap oh CRAAAAA-!"

Misato held the red button down, causing the thrusters to disengage and recede. Right as the bike went airborne, she pressed a yellow button that sat underneath the blue and red ones.

From the compartment behind the leather seat, twin rods extended above their heads, each one expanding out by ten yards. Instantaneously, rigid wings comprised of a durable red polymer splayed out, catching the wind and enabling them to glide.

Shinji was understandably bewildered. I'm gliding. On a motorcycle.

The Third Angel, meanwhile, was once again beset by the JSSDF, its attention now on the artillery cannons peppering it from the south. With its former targets no longer within sight, it focused on the immediate threat (if the JSSDF could even be called a 'threat').

Shinji, heart pounding like a jackhammer, quietly looked at the Third Angel's shrinking form as it waded into the JSSDF's defensive lines. Then he looked at the large wings that had suddenly sprouted out of the back of the motorcycle. Then he gazed down at the ground, idly noting that they were slowly descending.

Then he turned towards Misato. "…did you have this bike custom-made?"

"Yep!" Misato flashed Shinji a happy grin. "She's a beauty, isn't she?"

"…sure, yeah…" And now I know why my dad hired you, dryly thought Shinji, dreading the idea of NERV being populated by people just as crazy as his father or the Lieutenant Colonel. "Can we get back on the ground now?"

"Sure thing, Shinji, we're almost…there…" Misato's voice died off, her jaw going slack as if she had seen something horrible.

Confused, Shinji turned his head, noticing that the VTOLs were retreating from the Angel as it neared the artillery cannons, disappearing beyond the mountain range. "Why are they leaving…?"

"No…they're using an N2 mine!" Misato swiftly pried handgrips out from a compartment beneath the handlebars. With a push of the left grip and a pull of the right, the wings promptly tilted, causing them to turn towards the nearest evacuated building.

"Uh…Misato, what are you-?"

Shinji wisely shut up when Misato pulled an Uzi out of her jacket.

Batabatabatabatabata!

Nine millimeter rounds shattered the glass window on the sixth floor, revealing an opening into an office complex. With a press of the yellow button, the wings on Misato's bike began to recede, prompting an immediate downward acceleration. Granted, it didn't matter, because they had been gliding towards the seventh floor anyway. As Shinji's stomach nearly dropped out, the motorcycle fell through the opening to the sixth floor, the wings just fitting through as they came to a stop amongst a row of empty cubicles. The motorcycle's engine calmed to a quiet purr, barely audible over Shinji's panicked breathing.

"Alright! Timed it perfectly!" exclaimed Misato with a grin.

"Yeah…perfect timing…" groaned Shinji, wearily leaning back against the seat.

That's when the building rumbled, computers and papers falling over. The rest of the glass behind them shattered; even though they were on the wrong side of the building to see the blast of the N2 mine, the ambient light from the explosion was still visible. The shockwave from the blast roiled through the air, knocking out windows and tossing cars as far as the eye could see. Fortunately, Tokyo-3 proper was still several miles away, and was untouched by the blast.

Not that Shinji knew that; at the moment, he was busy performing some cost-benefit analysis in his head. He quickly concluded that piloting the Evangelion to fight the Third Angel couldn't possibly be as harrowing as Misato's driving.

"Well Shinji-kun, we're in the clear! Let's hurry up and get you to NERV!" After an affectionate pat of her red warhorse, Misato revved the engine and slowly drove through the building.

After everything that had just occurred, driving down the emergency stairwell to get to the first floor was downright anticlimactic.

Shinji did not mind at all.

xxxx

/Medical Ward, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"Professor Ikari."

"Yes Fuyutsuki?"

"Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi has just arrived with the Third Child."

"Excellent."

"We've also received official confirmation from the Defense Ministry that the SSDF is relieved of command. The operation is now under NERV's total control."

"Also excellent. What's the status of the Third Angel?"

"The N2 mine managed to slow it down, but it's already regenerating from the damage. The MAGI are predicting it'll be fully healed within the hour."

"Most excellent. Make sure the defensive armaments are set to the Delta configuration."

"Yes sir."

Sergeant Rei Ayanami watched quietly as the Professor removed his hand from the ear piece. The room was spotless and without blemish, befitting a high-quality medical facility. She was not one to complain, but the presence of white – on the tiles, on the walls, on the ceiling, on the medical equipment, on the curtains – seemed a bit excessive even to her. Professor Ikari's predominately navy blue uniform stood out like a sore thumb by comparison. "Were the SSDF able to damage the Third Angel?"

Gendo quietly stood up from his chair, shaking his head as he did. "No damage that was permanent, or even meaningful." All the better for NERV. "Fortunately, the Third Child has just arrived. I'll be going to greet him now."

"Understood sir," answered Rei as the Professor departed, leaving her alone in the sterile room. The medical diagnosis she had received following the failed Activation Experiment had been relatively pleasant: on her left side, she had suffered closed fractures in the radius, ulna, femur, tibia, and ribs seven through ten. Rounding it off was some substantial bruising on the torso. On the surface, it seemed quite serious.

She would be able to pilot within a few weeks.

Still, that would put the onus of humanity's survival on an untested Pilot: the Third Child. Shinji Ikari, the Professor's only child.

Hmm. Is he capable?

Curiosity was an odd creature, being one that didn't show up often for the young teenager. However, when it did, Sergeant Ayanami had a habit of becoming incredibly obstinate. As a result, it wasn't entirely unexpected when the young girl decided to call the medical staff.

One press of the call button and a few seconds later, a feminine voice crackled over the speakers. "Can we help you Sergeant?"

"Nurse?"

"Yes ma'am?"

"Bring me my crutches."

"…why? You're not cleared to leave your room, and we haven't received word from Professor Ikari, Dr. Fuyutsuki, Dr. Akagi, or-"

"I will see to it that you and your entire department are selected for Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi's Obstacle Course when the next review period begins." Her cool and nigh-emotionless tone made the threat doubly serious. Then again, ANY threat involving Misato Katsuragi tended to be serious.

The nurse's response was a foregone conclusion. "…I'll be right down."

xxxx

/Tram Line 7, Geofront, Tokyo-3/

Shinji Ikari never tired of seeing the Geofront.

As a young child, he had marveled at how 'the buildings float in the sky!' As he had grown, his perceptions had changed; he had gone from asking how they had moved a whole city underground to simply enjoying the scenery for its own sake. At the moment, artificial sunlight was gleaming down from massive lamps, casting the entire Geofront in a sunset it couldn't experience. The civilian portions of Tokyo-3 were hanging from the ceiling, a marvel of
engineering. Tram lines snaked along the edge of the spherical cavern, eventually trailing away and converging en route towards NERV headquarters. Amidst the large lake and temperate forest was a sprawling facility, its focal point the large, almost translucent pyramid that seemed to merge seamlessly with an identically-shaped indent into the ground. The reflective surface of NERV 's primary complex caught Shinji's gaze, as it always had.

Back here again…

Soon. He would see his father soon.

"So, you've actually been down in the Geofront before?"

Shinji turned towards Misato, regarding her inquisitive gaze with a nod. "I mean, I told you that I know about Unit-01."

"But have you seen it?"

The motorized platform they stood on suddenly entered the primary tram junction, which was situated in the tall administrative complex that stood nearby the pyramid. The warm glow of the faux-sunset was replaced by the harsh light and cool, synthetic environment of NERV-1.

It certainly fit the sudden shift in the mood. "Yes. I have."

Misato was, to be frank, surprised. Given the secrecy involved in running NERV – in particular with regards to the Evangelions themselves – she was surprised that Professor Ikari had actually let a child see so much (that Shinji was his son was beside the point). "…huh."

"You sound surprised."

"Your father goes to great lengths to keep anything related to NERV classified."

"Well…it was kind of unavoidable for me." Shinji felt a brief twinge. A titan of purple; a brown-haired woman's vacant stare; a clenched fist holding him in the air. "Besides, if I'm going to fight the Angels, it kind of helps to know how I'm going to do it."

Misato nodded, acknowledging the boy's point. "True that. We'd have to be real jackasses to just put you on the spot with no warning."

The tram slowed to a stop, the particular platform locking into place as the gateway opened up into a large corridor tinted with shades of green and gray. Red arrows pointed in both directions, offering guidance to newcomers. Unfortunately, none of them were pointing in the direction Misato wanted to go to. Well this is just great. She pulled a white parchment out of her jacket; it was a map of a particular subsection of NERV-1. Not that Misato was up to
the task of reading the gibberish her friend called kanji. Seriously Ritsuko, how hard is it to write directions?

Shinji took off to the left.

…okay, now he apparently feels adventurous. "It's a bad idea to go exploring; this place is EASY to get lost in." She had personal experience with this matter.

"Don't worry Misato. I know the way." Shinji continued walking.

Perplexed, Misato took off after the boy, slowing her pace as she caught up. "Really?"

Shinji only nodded. He couldn't forget even if he tried.

Sure enough, it only took several minutes for Shinji to arrive at an elevator, Misato right behind him. It had taken a few turns through NERV's labyrinthine structure, plus a trip down an escalator, but Shinji had gotten them to a place Misato recognized. Guess he really has been here. "Good for you Shinji!"

Shinji wordlessly pressed a combination of buttons, signaling the location he wanted the multi-directional elevator to take him. With an electronic hum, the elevator began to descend.

The anxiety was becoming oppressive. The sheer tension was visible in the rigidity of his stance; Misato could spot it from a mile away. "You're gonna grow old if you don't loosen up. Just relax and take it easy!"

Shinji was not particularly receptive. His nerves were simply too on edge. Soon. Soon.

The elevator came to a halt, signaling that someone was about to get on.

Needless to say, Shinji's unease once more took a backseat to bewilderment as another woman abruptly dropped in. However, this time it was a woman wearing a white lab coat over a blue wetsuit, her hair obviously dyed blonde. The bangs still dripped with red fluid, which only drew more attention to what could only be described as a cybernetic monocle fixed over her right eye. That being said, Shinji, pubescent teen that he was, noted that she was
also quite pretty.

He would've complimented her on her looks, had she not been busy ranting at an invisible person.

"No, I was just IN the coolant pool."

As the elevator door closed, Shinji calmly edged away from the blonde. Misato simply smiled, as if getting an old joke.

"You know very well that the mixture needs to be regularly filtered of contaminants!" The blonde blinked before snarling. "No, this is not the time to test out a new variant…I don't CARE if it's more efficient by volume, it doesn't mesh well with the current mix! We have an operation that's about to begin, and I'd rather we save the experimentation for a more opportune time." Her left eye – which Shinji could now see was dull green in color, like moss –
suddenly narrowed. "Repeat that." Seconds later, she growled. "I'm well aware of the condition my lab is in. But I'm not in there, am I?"

Moments passed. Shinji had backed up as far as he could without breaking out of the elevator. Misato was still smiling.

The woman suddenly shifted to the side, her whole body shuddering as she yelled, "Stop telling me to DO things! Or I WILL do them! And then…" Her face split open in a smirk that most would call deranged. "THEN, we shall discover who will regret it more! AAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

The woman noticeably calmed down as she pressed a button inside her wireless earpiece. "How bothersome."

"MAGI-00 giving you a hard time?" joked Misato, eyes twinkling with delight.

"Don't get me started Misato," droned the woman, her eyes falling upon a rather frightened boy. "Ah, so this is the Third Child?" She nonchalantly held her hand out. "Greetings. I'm Dr. Ritsuko Akagi, current head of Project E."

Shinji stared.

"And since I know you're going to ask eventually, no, I am not bipolar."

Shinji felt like weeping. Why father? Why do you hire people like this?

Ritsuko promptly ignored Shinji's cringing form. "So Misato, your opinion?"

"Well, he's actually aware of Unit 01…I'm not aware of any actual piloting experience though."

The doctor snorted as the elevator came to a halt. "Of course not, we'd have records on that sort of thing if he had. We're operating with a blank slate here, so I can only operate off of your opinion."

The Lieutenant Colonel rolled her eyes, used to her friend's eccentricities. "Let's see then. Well, the report from Marduk seemed to be optimistic about his chances…oh, and I kinda put him through the ringer on the way here." Misato scratched the back of her head as Shinji twitched, the reflexive action nearly making him fall over. "I can't wait till you view the surveillance logs!"

"Splendid, superb." Dr. Akagi briefly reviewed a few new digital files via the apparatus over her right eye. "Well, the Type-B equipment has been fully implemented, though we won't know its effectiveness until we have a live combat test…" The doctor began muttering to herself, as though conducting a debate concerning the various ways Unit-01 could go haywire. It was at that point that she noticed Shinji walking ahead. "Hm?"

"He seems to know the way," remarked Misato as she followed him. The overall tint of the room was a violet red, due to the presence of the massive tank of coolant situated to the side. An escalator stretched up towards another terminal. "Anyway, I think the little guy has what it takes!" Besides, they didn't have a choice either way, given Rei's injuries.

Dr. Akagi hummed thoughtfully, bringing a hand up to her earpiece. "Ibuki…regarding Unit-01's activation: what are the probabilities being reported by the MAGI?" A pause. "There's a chance it could work?" Another pause, followed by widening eyes. "Repeat that?" A lot of blinking. "HOW many zeroes?" Ritsuko promptly turned towards Misato. "FOOL! It'll NEVER work!"

"Since when have the MAGI been right about anything?" Before Ritsuko could go on a rant, Misato added, "About me."

Ritsuko's silence said it all. The MAGI had all concluded various times that Misato's very existence was a statistical impossibility. Her 'driving' feats had been analyzed and deemed physically impossible.

Misato counted it as a victory.

Shinji ignored the banter of the two women behind him, his eyes focused mostly on the tank of coolant. Through its transparent walls, he could make out the murky outline of an arm. There it is.

The escalator came to an end; Shinji calmly stepped toward the nearest door, swiping his NERV ID badge through the adjacent card reader. That the door opened was no surprise.

After all, he could remember his father doing the same thing many times.

This is it.

Without waiting for Misato or Dr. Akagi, the boy calmly stepped into the breach.

xxxx

/Outskirts of Tokyo-3/

Where?

Where?

Where?

The entity that humanity had dubbed 'the Third Angel' gazed upon the mass of metal and rock that was known as Tokyo-3. Senses extended, seeing and perceiving on levels beyond those of any organism on Earth.

Unfortunately, it was experiencing an approximation to what humans called 'interference'. The contours upon which the essences of the universe circulated curved around a sphere underneath the city, unable to permeate it. Vague sparks of energy leaked through the sphere, imperceptible by the denizens of this world. Even so, the Third Angel knew that it was seeing what amounted to an incomplete picture; were the Angel whole, it would have undoubtedly seen the truth of what lied within.

That there was interference at all, however, indicated technology of its Creator and His Kind.

A voice rang out across the ether, unknowable to all save the Third Angel.

Ah, Sachiel. You have [awoken/risen/manifested].

The Third Angel paused. MY [NAME/TITLE/IDENTITY] IS [INDECIPHERABLE].

Humanity is incapable of pronouncing our true [name/title/identity]; Sachiel is the closest approximation that they have for [INDECIPHERABLE]. Likewise, the Lilim have christened their [Creator/Mother/Source], [INDECIPHERABLE], as LILITH.

I UNDERSTAND, [INDECIPHERABLE]. CAN YOU [PERCEIVE/FEEL/EXPERIENCE] WHAT I [PERCEIVE/FEEL/EXPERIENCE]?

Somewhat. My current form is rather limited in function.

IS [INDECIPHERABLE] HERE?

Yes. From what I have been able to ascertain, She has been locked away by the Lilim, deep within Her [vessel/home/shield], [INDECIPHERABLE]. They call it the Black Moon.

That certainly explained the 'interference'; the 'Black Moon' would undoubtedly avert the sight of one as incomplete as Sachiel. CAN SHE PROVIDE THE LOCATION OF OUR [CREATOR/FATHER/SOURCE]?

Of that I am certain. The Lilim have managed to hide Him quite well; She will undoubtedly have the answers we seek.

The Third Angel, Sachiel, audibly acknowledged his kin's words. To all others who heard it, the sound flowed like a river of a thousand whispers. I SHALL LOOSE HER BINDINGS AND OBTAIN THE ANSWERS WE SEEK.

The Lilim will try and stop you.

WHY?

I am not sure. Their reasoning still eludes me.

The Third Angel suddenly noticed various shifts in the contours about him. Focusing on the local region of space-time, the Third Angel noted that nearby concentrations of energy were changing in form and structure; the Lilim were preparing to strike.

Sachiel's eyes glowed.

THEN I SHALL [BREAK/END/ANNIHILATE/SUNDER] ALL WHO STAND AGAINST ME.

Violet energy erupted from a missile battery in the form of a giant cross, brightening the twilight sky of Tokyo-3.

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"Sir! Missile Battery A-7 has been annihilated!"

Sub-Director Kozou Fuyutsuki scowled at the readout. Group A – mostly comprised of chemically-propelled projectile weapons – of the MAGI-controlled defenses were already attacking the Angel, to little effect other than gaining its attention. The Delta configuration was programmed to unleash its full potential only when an Evangelion was active in the field.

Unit-01 was still conspicuously absent.

Damn it Gendo, I know you have a taste for the theatric, but could you hurry it up with your son? Running a hand through his thick, combed-back hair of smoky gray, Fuyutsuki tried to think of a more fruitful way of keeping the Angel occupied. Hmm.

Inspiration hit. Somewhat-worrisome inspiration, but inspiration nonetheless. "No time like the present..."

The Sub-Director, clad in a neatly pressed brown uniform, was often the picture of sanity and stability around NERV. After all, Professor Ikari's eccentric nature was well-documented, as were those of Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi and Dr. Akagi. Needless to say, it provided NERV's employees (and various governments around the world, for that matter) some measure of ease that there was a level-headed adult in NERV's command structure.

So when Fuyutsuki issued his next command, almost all of the bridge technicians blanched.

"I did not stutter, ladies and gentlemen."

"But, we haven't tested them in live combat before! Dr. Akagi only just recently concluded a successful synchronization test with the Primary Coordinator, but we have no clue how he'll perform! He hasn't even had any simulated combat exercises yet!"

"I have documented evidence from Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi dictating otherwise, Lieutenant Hyuga."

"Sir, are we really counting arcades?"

"Your objections are duly noted Lieutenant, but we're out of options. Plus, given what I've seen in person, I have faith in his ability." Ignoring Lieutenant Hyuga's exasperated gasp, Fuyutsuki turned to a brown-haired woman sitting in front of the MAGI terminal. "Lieutenant Ibuki, is the system operational?"

"Yes sir! We're ready to go at any time."

Fuyutsuki smirked as he stepped forward, eyeing the one of the smaller monitors in the MAGI terminal. Blinking on the screen in red was the symbol 'P2'. Bringing a hand to his earpiece, the Sub-Director said, "Pen-Pen…are you ready?"

"Wark."

"I'll take that as a yes." Fuyutsuki gazed once more at the primary screen, eyeing the Third Angel as it destroyed a group of stationary mortars. "It's time to put Dr. Akagi's system to the test. If you will, Lieutenant Ibuki."

"Yes sir!" The woman quickly typed in the activation code. The 'P2' flashed green. "LAUNCHING GUNDAMS!"

xxxx

/Lymph Node-A, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"BEHOLD! Mankind's ultimate fighting machine: the synthetic life-form, Evangelion Unit-01!"

Even though time passed and things changed, Shinji was grateful that some constants existed. One of them was his father.

The other was the visage of Evangelion Unit-01, still menacing after all these years.

The only part of the Evangelion that was visible was the head, clad in an indigo helmet fashioned after that of a samurai: two ridges spanned from the back of the head towards the front, fanning out and forming thick plates by the jaw. Protruding from the forehead was a similarly-colored horn that had a green ring about its base; thin and sharp, it looked perfectly capable of goring a battleship. The actual maw of the colossus was colored cornflower blue, the jaws shaped to form a monstrous scowl. That the head itself was over fifteen feet in diameter didn't help, adding to the impression that it would gobble you up at a moment's notice. The rest of Unit-01 was submerged under the red coolant, save for the massive shoulder pylons. However, even they were locked into place within specially-crafted slots in the wall; all in all, given the hydraulic arms that were fixed upon its shoulders, the Evangelion looked more like a sealed beast than a weapon of war.

Shinji wasn't thinking about any of that.

Nor was he paying attention to Dr. Akagi, who had launched into a boisterous speech espousing the scientific virtues ("Capable of generating, with a sufficiently high sync ratio, the metaphysical construct that can render an Angel vulnerable to conventional weapons!") and vices ("That we decided on bipeds is still vexing, but in the end, Square Cube SHALL BE VINDICATED! HAHAHAHAHA!") of the Evangelion.

Neither was he enjoying the show alongside Misato, who was also observing the orange-clad technicians scurrying about in the rafters about the chamber, finishing up on preliminary maintenance.

Instead, his focus was exclusively on the eyes of Unit-01, cream-colored shards amidst black metal, bearing blank pupils that seemed to be looking directly at him. As they always did.

No matter how many times he had seen Unit-01 face-to-face, she would always look at him.

Misato noted Shinji's intense stare. "You okay? I mean, I know it looks kind of freaky, but it won't bite." When Shinji didn't respond, the Lieutenant Colonel became worried. "Hey Ritsuko, I think he crashed."

Immediately falling out of her tirade, the female scientist tapped the side of her cybernetic monocle, turning away from Misato and towards Shinji. "Then allow me to press RESTART!" A bright red flash erupted from the monocle.

"GAH!" yelped Shinji as he faltered, nearly blinded by the flash. For some reason, the rapidly-disappearing spots floating across his vision were shaped like tacos and ears of corn. "What was that for?"

"To get your attention! We have no time for blue screens of death! That…can come LATER!"

Shinji stared incredulously at Misato, who simply mouthed 'roll with it!'

Dr. Akagi immediately calmed down, seemingly unaware of her idiosyncratic demeanor. "At any rate, we don't have much time." A few tremors shook the chamber, indicative of the battle taking place above. "We have to get Unit-01 moving."

"I know, it's just…" Shinji straightened up, looking back at Unit-01's face. "…it's just been a long time."

"It has."

That voice. Shinji quickly looked up, eyes gazing upon a well-lit balcony. There was a cloaked figure, silhouetted by the light…but the voice was unmistakable. "…father…?"

At that moment, all of the lights in the room turned off, plummeting them into nigh-total darkness. "WAH! What the-? What happened to the lights?" yelped Shinji.

Moments later, they clicked back on.

"AH!" shrieked Shinji as he fell backwards, startled by the fact that his father was standing right in front of him. "Bu-bu-bu-what the, how…wha…?"

Gendo Ikari mentally smirked. Impression made. Mission accomplished!

Misato immediately stood at attention. "Hello Professor Ikari! I've escorted the Third Child as promised."

"Excellent work Katsuragi. I highly suggest that you head to the Operations Deck and take command of our defense systems. Likewise for you, Dr. Akagi; on the way down, I received word that Fuyutsuki had authorized use of the P2 System." Gendo's tone in no way resembled a 'suggestion'; this was a nicely-worded order.

Misato didn't care, quite frankly. "Awesome! Time to see my little guy in action!" The Lieutenant Colonel nonchalantly gave Shinji a vigorous pat on the back. "Good luck; see you up top!"

As Misato ran out of the chamber, Dr. Akagi followed as well, lips contorted into a haughty smirk. Ah, the P2 System. Time to see how the Angel copes with sheer, unadulterated GENIUS!

Shinji and Gendo were alone. Father and son. A mountain of baggage not of their own making. So to speak.

"It is…good to see you again, son."

Shinji calmly got to his feet, taking in his father's appearance. The uniform was the same as ever; navy blue khakis and jacket with golden buttons, overlaying a red turtleneck sweater. The cloak – likewise the same shade of blue – was draped over his shoulders, tied together by a golden chain. Polished black dress shoes gave him a hint of class, whereas the yellow trimming along the rim of the cloak called attention to the most defining characteristic of his uniform.

Save for the glasses, that is; tinted orange, they had a tendency of preventing one from seeing what Gendo Ikari was thinking. Combined with the brown hair that framed his face, distinctive eyebrows, and a sturdy facial structure, the impression one got from looking at the Supreme Commander of NERV was one of power and hidden danger.

That is, until he did something completely insane. Then you had no idea what to think.

Shinji couldn't help but marvel at how little the man had changed. "…still the same…"

"And yet much has changed," replied Gendo, looking at the various technicians scurrying around, trying to look as busy as possible for their boss. "I'm glad that you chose to come."

"Well…we both made a promise to each other, didn't we?" Memories of one last fateful meeting, where their destinies were set in stone. "We knew this day would come, didn't we?"

"Yes. I had hoped your days of peace would be longer…but mankind no longer has time. The Angels have returned to finish what they started."

Shinji thought of the beast that he had seen on the way to NERV. Tall, impervious, and frighteningly powerful. That it had survived the N2 Mine spoke volumes. "And I'm going to be the one to face it…"

"Can you handle it?"

That was the key question, wasn't it? All of his anxiety and nervousness came back with a roar, rooting him to the spot. The Angels: the ones responsible for Second Impact. On the other hand, there was Evangelion Unit-01. My mother's greatest invention…the sword that will defeat the Angels…and the shield that will protect humanity. He focused once more on Unit-01's eyes, which were staring directly at him. "…well…you always said that she made it with me in mind…isn't that right?" A light smile tugged at his lips. "Mother."

The Evangelion gave a small murmur of approval, which sounded like a dull roar echoing through the chamber.

"Father…have you-?"

"No," answered Gendo, already knowing the answer to Shinji's question. "We're no closer to retrieving her than we were last year."

Shinji nodded, feeling somewhat morose by the revelation. "I see…" He scratched the back of his head, trying to banish the awkwardness of the whole topic. The subject of his mother was, needless to say, extremely touchy.

Gendo turned his gaze to Unit-01, his shades and self-control hiding the deep longing he felt. "For now, we can only fight the Angels. Once this is all over…we will meet her again."

That would have to be enough for now. It was an odd thing, to be trusted with the fate of mankind, to be trusted to use the very weapon that had taken his mother's life. Yet, remnants of his mother remained, in the form of the pseudo-sapient consciousness of the Evangelion itself; she would always be beside him in battle. His father would always be here, alongside NERV.

He had accepted the reality of how things were years ago. Facing that reality now, however?

…I think I can handle it.

"Your advice is appreciated. Now leave me be."

Shinji and Gendo turned. An argument was slowly approaching from one of the corridors.

"Sergeant Ayanami, just hold on-!"

"Just let me see the new arrival."

"But your wounds will reopen and-!"

"I won't have any qualms reporting you for insubordination!"

Shinji blinked. Gendo arched an eyebrow out of curiosity.

That's when a girl walked out onto the catwalk, outpacing her exasperated medic. Her left side was bandaged heavily, her arm free only to grab the crutch that she used for assistance with her walking. Her right side was relatively unmarred; under the tan military fatigues was a white bodysuit of sorts...but what caught Shinji's attention were the blue hair and the red eye that was left uncovered. It was an exotic combination that he hadn't seen before, and it certainly didn't seem artificial in any way.

If he were asked, he would've said that she was quite pretty.

Judging by the stern glare, however, she wasn't that happy. She stood stoically in front of him, taking in his appearance with a single perceptive gaze. "...so you are the Professor's son." Her voice was cold, laced with casual scorn. Her disposition screamed 'I am superior to you'.

Shinji tried his hardest not to flinch. "Yes."

She calmly grabbed his chin, tilting his this way and about. She poked and prodded, examining his limbs with her free hand in a methodic and analytic fashion. All the while, she muttered words like 'scrawny', 'lack of sufficient musculature', and 'what was Marduk thinking? ' It was as though he were a slab of meat being haggled over at a market. Even in her cool, emotionally-bereft tone of voice, the whole process was somewhat denigrating. And rather
annoying. "Miss, I'm-"

"YOU will be quiet," quietly snapped the blue-haired girl. "What experience have you had with the Evangelion? How many virtual simulations have you engaged in? How much combat training have you had personally?"

Shinji blinked at the sudden interrogation. "Well, I've known about Evangelion for a long time...but I've never actually been inside of it, but-"

"You must be joking." The girl shook her head, clearly in disbelief. She turned towards Gendo, who had been watching the scene in silence, a spectator to yet another comedy produced by NERV. "Professor Ikari sir, I MUST protest. We can't send out a pilot with no experience."

"You are too injured to pilot effectively. Ergo, Shinji will be the pilot."

"But sir-"

BBRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEE.

Shinji impulsively recoiled at the sound of the air horn being blown in the girl's face. To her credit, she didn't even budge; she just utterly stopped, as if unplugged.

Gendo Ikari calmly placed the air horn back within the folds of his cloak. "Lesson #1 Shinji: to grab everyone's attention, you must be at least 40 decibels louder than everyone else in the room."

"Y...Yes sir," reflexively replied Shinji, too bewildered by what had just occurred.

BOOM!

Another blast from the Angel rocked Tokyo-3 above. The explosion's vibrations caused the overhead light fixtures to quiver. Moments later, the cables holding them up snapped under the tension.

Shinji impulsively pulled the blue-haired girl towards the ground, propping himself between her and the lights. Gendo did not move.

A flash of white light. The sound of wrenching metal. The reinforced halogens against something thick and unyielding.

Shinji opened an eye...and boggled. The arm of Unit-01, attached to broken cables and pipes, had blocked the lights. They had been mere feet away from crashing upon himself, the girl, and Gendo. "W-Whoa..." Mother…was that you?

One of the technicians yelped in shock. "T-T-The Eva activated itself! It broke out of the right arm restraint!"

A small smile flashed across Gendo's face. As expected...moving for his sake, hm?

The medic stared from afar, his jaw slack with shock. You didn't work at NERV long enough without knowing how certain things worked. What the Evangelion had just done was clearly impossible. "It...moved...without a pilot..."

"It seems that the Angel's begun to break through the armored layers." Hopefully the P2 System can keep it sufficiently occupied long enough to prepare Unit-01. Gendo calmly looked down at the girl, who looked none too happy at being impulsively 'protected' by Shinji. "Sergeant Ayanami: this boy will be the Pilot. Understood?"

Shinji looked down at the now-named Ayanami; the girl said nothing as she quietly separated herself from him. Standing up with a fair bit of difficulty, the blue-haired girl looked down at him with disapproval…and, oddly enough, some measure of curiosity. "Sir. Yes sir." With crutch in hand, she quietly walked back towards the medic.

Shinji stared at her as she stoically walked away, confused and honestly bewildered (this was getting to be a pattern with the woman of NERV, he briefly noted) by Ayanami's reaction to his mere presence. That was…odd.

Did their first meeting have to end like this?

"Ayanami!"

The girl stopped. "That's SERGEANT Ayanami." She looked back at Shinji, who – despite being on the ground – looked at her with resolve that she did not expect. "What is it?"

Shinji inhaled. "I...knew what was awaiting me here. I've known for a long time that coming back here meant I'd have to fight!" Shinji willed up his determination. He had acknowledged this for years; despite his fear, despite his misgivings regarding Unit-01, despite the pain that would undoubtedly be waiting for him…he had no choice but to move forward.

There was no other way. "I didn't come just to run away! So don't worry!"

Ayanami stared impassively.

Then she kept on walking, seemingly unimpressed. "Speeches won't defeat the Angel." Once again in the company of the medic, the Sergeant left the chamber.

Shinji exhaled, feeling exhausted after everything that had happened…and he hadn't even gotten into the Evangelion yet. I won't run away...I won't run away...I won't-

A hand gloved in white came into his field of vision.

Shinji gazed up at Gendo, who was looking down at him with a small smile on his face. "Are you ready to help save the world?"

He had survived a first encounter with the Third Angel. He had survived Misato Katsuragi's driving. He had survived the bipolar (NOTHING would convince him that she wasn't bipolar, nothing!) Ritsuko Akagi and a chilly Sergeant Ayanami.

He had been saved from certain death by the machine of war that now housed what little remained of his mother.

Yet, in spite of all that, it was that single statement that helped steel Shinji's spine. Even if he had no choice but to go forward into the unknown, it was so much easier to do so with someone by his side. "Yes," answered Shinji without hesitation, his face sporting an equally sheepish smile. "I'm ready."

Without hesitation, he clutched his father's hand.

xxxx

To be continued…

Next time…

Episode 2: CRASH COURSE (Angel Attack)

xxxx

/and here's the rest
//gonna try and shoot for two episode posts a day

 

[Ultra Sonic 007]

/September 20, 2015/

/Tokyo-3, Japan/

The Third Angel's eyes glowed.

CHYOOOM!

Another cross of energy brightened the sky of Tokyo-3, tearing through layers upon layers of armor beneath the streets. Only a few more before the vessel of the Lilim's [Creator/Mother/Source] was open to it.

The resting place of the Angel's [Creator/Father/Source] would soon be known.

Boom!

An explosion blossomed meters away from Sachiel, warded off by a translucent shield of orange hexagons. The Lilim's attempts at diverting it from its current objective were [odd/curious/frustrating/admirable], but the overall futility was apparent.

Even so, the newest weapon that they were utilizing was…intriguing. It observed twenty entities that were, using the Lilim's local coordinate frame, approximately twenty-feet tall with corresponding Lilim proportions. Of particular interest were the tendrils of energy connected to each entity, moving about the universal contours and converging at some point deep within the 'Black Moon'.

Each tendril was a genuine [telepathic/neurological/spiritual] connection; all of the entities were being controlled by a singular [intelligence/coordinator].

Curious.

Sachiel raised its arm, aiming a lance at the nearest entity.

KREEEN!

The entity was already dozens of yards away from the impact zone.

The Third Angel [observed/sensed/felt] the various entities about him, acknowledging the numerous vantage points they possessed, despite their confinement to relatively few planes of existence. With a singular [intelligence/coordinator], multiple viewpoints enabled reflexes and movements that bordered on precognition.

Fascinating.

Even so, their weaponry wasn't enough to pierce the Light of its Soul.

It was at that moment where the Third Angel was introduced to the Lilim concept known as 'the feint'.

KRACKOOM!

A tungsten projectile weighing one hundred pounds slammed into Sachiel's protective shield at Mach 10, immediately shattering upon contact. Although the orange hexagons managed to block the actual shell, the sheer kinetic force bled through the phase space generated by the Angel.

The Third Angel was knocked over onto the street.

Needless to say, Sachiel was [bewildered/surprised/shocked/annoyed] by the Lilim.

Meanwhile, the perpetrator of the attack – a mounted rail gun – receded into Mt. Hakone, its task completed. The P2 System had brought it enough time to fire without retaliation.

Speaking of the P2 System, the mecha it controlled were preparing for another assault.

Twenty mecha were moving in a harmonized yet asynchronous fashion, their forms thick and blocky. The torso and legs of the robots were white in color, with the arms and pauldrons bearing a shade of deep purple. The yellow trimming about the large feet matched the color of the triangular breastplate. The head, although humanoid in shape and proportion, lacked all human features save for twin eyes of green set against black metal. A white mask with
grills covered the face, while a red helmet protected the head; a green orb was situated on the forehead, from which protruded two diagonal spikes of red. All in all, the aesthetic of the robots seemed to evoke samurai.

Samurai, however, didn't quack.

"Wark." As one, the twenty mecha took to the air, thrusters emerging from their backs. As one, they fired grenades from their rifles. As one, they scattered, planning for another assault as the Third Angel vanished in a cloud of smoke and fire.

For their first sortie against an Angel, the P2 System and the Defender Gundams were doing exceptionally well.

CHYOOOM!

The violet crucifix that annihilated an entire block – and one of the mecha – revealed that they weren't enough.

"Wark!" The sound being emitted by the Defender Gundams' speakers evoked one feeling: irritation. This was not an enemy that could be defeated on
their own.

"We hear you loud and clear Pen-Pen!" Misato's voice echoed through to the Primary Coordinator of the P2 System. "The Evangelion's on its way!"

"Wark."

xxxx

Episode 2: CRASH COURSE (Angel Attack)

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"Provided that the Professor doesn't get too dramatic," remarked Fuyutsuki, standing stoically behind the Operations Director. The man had a tendency to go overboard when he wanted to make an impression.

The Ops-Director turned on her heel, flashing a cocksure smile at her superior. "Don't worry Sub-Director, we'll keep the Angel occupied as long as we can. Besides, Pen-Pen's doing fabulously."

"And they said Gundams were a waste of time! Impractical, a waste of resources!" Dr. Akagi cackled madly. Crackling electricity would have made for a very appropriate background at the moment. "Well WHO'S ONE CAN SHORT OF A SIX-PACK NOW?"

"That would be you senpai!"

"Indeed! Fufufufufufuu!" Clearing her throat, Dr. Akagi turned towards Misato, seemingly unaware of Lieutenant Ibuki's insult. Not that it was an actual insult; for Dr. Akagi, affirmation was affirmation. Regardless of how quirky. "At any rate, we've seen that sufficient physical force can make it through an Angel's AT-Field, but I wouldn't want to risk losing the Hakone rail gun for another shot." That the rail gun didn't actually penetrate the Angel's shield at
such close range went unsaid; no need to induce even more panic.

Misato grinned as she looked at the various holographic readouts in the air above her; the region containing Tokyo-3 was a mass of green topographical curves, evoking rough representations of Tokyo-3, the mountains of the Hakone region, and Lake Ashi itself. Various technicolor lights denoted their various defensive armaments, their current ammo levels, and their structural integrity. The rapidly-moving violet dots signified the Defender Gundams
under control of the P2 System. The large red orb signified the Third Angel, accompanied by charts detailing its energy readings.

Needless to say, they were quite massive.

"Okay then." Misato looked down upon the various technicians monitoring the individual components of Tokyo-3's defenses, NERV's primary support systems, and the MAGI themselves. There were at least a hundred of them, looking like tan-clad drones. Meanwhile, right in front of her were four terminals, serving as the locus of all information, coordinated and headed by four individuals, each one bearing the rank of Lieutenant. At the moment,
there were only three; the fourth was busy attending to the activation of Evangelion Unit-01. "Aoba, Hyuga; make sure that Groups B and D fire in a staggered manner! Keep the Angel's focus divided!"

"Roger!"

"Ibuki, keep an eye on the P2 System's uplink. I don't want Pen-Pen losing contact with any of his Gundams! Be ready to transfer over when Unit-01 launches."

"Roger!"

Misato turned towards Dr. Akagi, who had yet to change out of her wetsuit. "Ritsuko, make sure Miyata gets back to the bridge once Unit-01's been fully prepped. I want him at his terminal by the time we launch!"

The depraved doctor sighed. "Don't worry, he's always punctual. Besides, if he isn't…" Ritsuko suddenly smirked, in a positively manic fashion. "He'll be on KP duty for my cat, RANDALL!"

Lieutenant Ibuki impulsively twitched. Hurry up Miyata-kun!

xxxx

"You've already been introduced to these people." The screen flashed, revealing Misato. "Lieutenant Colonel Misato Katsuragi: Operations Director and Acting Chief of Section 2." A second flash revealed the blue-haired girl from before. "Sergeant Rei Ayanami, Pilot of Evangelion Unit-00." Another flash revealed Ritsuko, this time wearing a blue blouse and black skirt under her lab coat instead of a wetsuit. "Doctor Ritsuko Akagi: Head of Project E and
Chief of NERV's Technical Branch. She's the primary overseer of the MAGI."

"The MAGI?"

"The supercomputers that regulate almost all of our day-to-day operations; they also run the municipal government of Tokyo-3 and administer all public services." The image shifted to that of three green squares situated around a red square. The three blocks on the perimeter bore the titles MAGI-01: MELCHIOR, MAGI-02: BALTHASAR, and MAGI-03: CASPER. The central block simply read MAGI-00: HEROD. "They reduce the amount of manpower needed to operate NERV-1."

Shinji nodded thoughtfully.

Gendo – holding a customized PDA that he had pulled out of his cloak – was standing beside Shinji, waiting for the various technicians to finish calibrating the Entry Plug for Unit-01. At the moment, he was introducing his son to his new coworkers. Well, the important ones, at any rate. "This is Kozou Fuyutsuki: Sub-Director of NERV-1 and my Second-in-Command. You might remember him with less wrinkles."

Shinji looked at the PDA, recalling the sight of Fuyutsuki from his youth, before he had been sent away. "He looks a lot older now…"

"This job can be quite stressful." Another flash. This revealed a woman with a slim face and long brown hair tied into a ponytail. Bearing a mellow smile and black eyes, the woman seemed rather unassuming compared to Misato, Dr. Akagi, and Rei. The uniform she wore probably helped: slim white pants and a tan jacket with orange stripes along the shoulders and a blue, triangular stone over the zipper. A black undershirt could be under the collar's
opening. The uniform itself left relatively little to the imagination in terms of body structure; along with some nice…assets (not up to par with Misato or Ritsuko, if Shinji had to be honest), her lithe limbs bore some muscle tone. "This is Lieutenant Shiori Aoba: Tactical Officer and Second-in-Command of Section 2."

"What is Section 2?" asked Shinji.

"Do you recall seeing men in black suits around Tokyo-3? Even as a child?"

"Yes…are they Section 2?"

"Decoys. Though they do provide security, the rank-and-file of Section 2 are dressed in an anonymous fashion. They're tasked with protecting the integrity of our facilities."

A blink of confusion. "Then…why have the men in black?"

"Give people what they're looking for, and they won't see the bat coming to the back of their head."

"…that's…an interesting metaphor."

"I know." There was another flash, this time revealing a young man. The only significant differences from Shiori Aoba's uniform were the looser pants, colored tan instead of white, whilst the brown boots were thicker and had a smaller heel. His chocolate-brown hair was slicked back in the photo, ending in well-trimmed spikes. He wore horn-rimmed glasses with maroon frames, the color closely matching his dark auburn eyes. His lips were shifted into a
light smile, looking for all the world like a sensible, well-mannered guy. The kind of guy you wouldn't expect NERV to hire. "Lieutenant Makoto Hyuga: Communications and Logistics Officer."

"He looks like a nice guy."

"He is. He doesn't have any significant quirks or psychological issues. Makes me wonder why I hired him."

Shinji was almost too afraid to ask. Almost. "…so, why did you?"

xxxx

/March, 2011/

/Warehouse, Geofront, Tokyo-3/

Professor Ikari looked silently at the large parcels that sat within the Geofront warehouse, filled to the brim with vital components for the monthly refurbishment of the MAGI mainframes, munitions, various minerals and electronic gear for Project E, ludicrous amounts of bottled water, packets of instant ramen, one machete, and a Shiro Sagisu CD. The variety of materials and the actual quantity were quite impressive.

He turned his gaze to the prospective employee beside him. Makoto Hyuga's overall lack of quirks or exploitable personality flaws had been…disappointing, but this performance almost made up for it. "All this for less than one million yen, hmm?"

"Yes sir!"

"Curious. It seems you weren't boasting."

"Well sir, if I may say so, it not only comes down to bargaining and wheeling and dealing, but it involves your presence! It involves investing yourself in the deal, and that goes a long way. Connections help…but so does a smile."

"I see. You're hired."

xxxx

/September 20, 2015/

Gendo decided to be honest. "He's good at haggling."

Shinji didn't quite know what to make of that answer.

Ignoring his son's bewilderment, Gendo continued with the introductions. With another flash, the PDA revealed another woman. This one was far more petite than Shiori Aoba, her rounder face bearing a happy smile. Her dark brown eyes matched the color of her thick hair; her hair reached down to the back of the neck, whilst her bangs curled over the forehead, parting right above the left eye. Her figure, albeit feminine in nature, was very slim; despite
wearing the same uniform as Shiori (with the exception of the boots, which mirrored Hyuga's), she didn't quite fill it out as much, so to speak. "Lieutenant Maya Ibuki: Computer Science Officer and Sub-Director of NERV's Technical Branch."

"Calibration's done!"

Both father and son looked up to see a pair of slim, white-clad legs dangling out of the Entry Plug. Shinji briefly smiled at the sound of the voice, which was smooth and quite delicate in nature. Perhaps another female coworker? Hopefully one less insane than the others he had personally met already?

"Well done Lieutenant Ibuki," acknowledged Gendo.

Ibuki? Is this Maya?

As the Lieutenant stepped out of the Entry Plug, Shinji took in her appearance; same uniform, same feminine build. She seemed a little less curvy than the picture on the PDA had indicated, but photos were photos. Besides, the difference was rather minuscule to begin with-

"Shinji." The boy' is thoughts were interrupted by Gendo, who was motioning toward the approaching Lieutenant. "This is Lieutenant Miyata Ibuki: Chief of Engineering and Vice-Director of NERV's Technical Branch."

"A pleasure to meet you!" said Miyata, acting as pleasant as could be.

Shinji stared.

He looked back at the picture of Maya Ibuki. Then he looked back at Miyata Ibuki. Back to Maya's picture. Back to Miyata. Maya. Miyata. "…uh…"

"Before you ask, we're twins."

"Oh." Shinji, having hit his Weirdness Quotient for the day, deciding to risk going further. "…then what's with the uniform?" He had noticed the pattern with the pictures; the tight white pants seemed to be for female officers. However, the brown boots – similar to Hyuga's and Maya's – had no discernible pattern to their use.

Miyata sighed remorsefully, as if used to such confusion. "One of my job requirements as Vice-Director of the Technical Branch, I have to say."

Shinji resisted the urge to ask about what kind of place the Technical Branch was. Then he recalled a particular detail. "Wait…Vice-Director? Then if Maya's the Sub-Director…" Shinji groaned, feeling a ludicrous explanation coming on.

"Akagi-senpai pretty much made the positions up out of whole cloth so she could claim Maya and myself as assistants." Miyata shrugged, having accepted his situation a long time ago. "It's been a rewarding experience so far!"

Dr. Akagi's assistants? He looked back and forth between Miyata and Maya's picture, trying to visualize such cheerful-looking people assisting that madwoman. Then he recalled another detail. "If Dr. Akagi is the Chief of the Technical Branch…"

"Yes?"

"…she makes you wear those pants?"

Another sigh. Miyata seemed used to this line of questioning. "Well, Akagi-senpai insisted. The pants are standard-issue for the women, whilst the boots are standard-issue for the men."

"…why?"

"Well…"

xxxx

/June 2011/

/Ritsuko's Laboratory, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Dr. Ritsuko Akagi stared intently at the two new employees in front of her. Both of them had been transferred over to the Technical Branch. Maya Ibuki and Miyata Ibuki. Looking back and forth between the identical twins – each clad in the uniform tailored for their respective sex – Ritsuko recalled various details from their resume. "So…Maya prefers software and Miyata prefers hardware, hmm?"

"Yes ma'am!" answered the Ibuki Twins. Miyata added, "I specialize in electrical engineering in particular, ma'am!"

"Got it, got it…" Ritsuko mulled over the possibilities that these two presented her. Able assistants, each one clearly capable in their field. They had potential, that they did. "Hmm." The Head of Project E turned on her heel and left the lab.

Maya and Miyata blinked. Finally, the former groaned. "You shouldn't have added that at the end…"

"I like being helpful."

"She's read our resumes, she knows what we specialize in. Why annoy her with information she's already been given?"

"Because it shows initiative!"

"Or she could be angry that you tried to shoehorn yourself into your preferred field despite being a rookie."

"Now you're just nitpicking, sis."

"Well bro, rookies should know to keep their heads down!"

Dr. Akagi was back. The twins looked at the objects that she held in her hands; namely, a pair of standard-issue boots for male employees and the white, standard-issue pants for female employees. "You will wear these," ordered Ritsuko, handing the boots to Maya. "And you will wear these." She handed the pants to Miyata.

Miyata and Maya blinked, somewhat intrigued (and confused) by the demand. "Uh…" Maya raised her hand. "Dr. Akagi-?"

"You will do this. Or else!" Their new boss suddenly grinned in a manner that was both delightful and genuinely creepy. "Yes, 'or else', my new guinea pigs. FAILURE TO DO SO WILL RESULT IN DEATH BY RANDALL!"

The Ibuki Twins looked toward each other with fear, a sense of doom smothering all of their good cheer.

xxxx

/September 20, 2015/

"…and you work for her because…?"

Miyata casually shrugged off Shinji's incredulity. "We got used to it. After all, we ARE working on the cutting edge here at NERV. Besides, the pay's good…though, people still get the two of us mixed up on occasion." 'Occasion' meaning every single day. The two twins looked so alike that it was frightening; the mere word 'twin' was not enough to do justice to their similarity. Miyata had lost count of how many times a guy had hit on him; Maya likewise had lost how many times a girl had hit on her. The rough count by now was in the 400s.

"Father." Shinji turned towards Gendo, feeling a bit of empathy for Miyata; after all, he knew what it was like to be dealing with a somewhat overbearing female (coughAnnettecough). Although to be fair, his cousin had had the advantage of being demonstrably sane. "Can't you order Dr. Akagi to let them wear the normal uniforms?" True, he certainly did sympathize for them; they were assistants with a patently bipolar scientist. However, no man should
have to wear such tight pants. Even if they did fit disturbingly well.

"Both Lieutenants Ibuki and Ibuki are used to the requirements placed upon them by Dr. Akagi. Better to keep her satisfied than to have her complaining." Gendo decided to be honest again, if only to reinforce his image as a somewhat loony individual. "Besides, I find it amusing."

Shinji and Miyata stared at the Professor

"You know it is."

Shinji and Miyata turned toward each other. Finally...

"Well…kind of," sheepishly admitted Shinji.

"A little," muttered Miyata.

"At any rate, we have an Angel to fight."

"Right Professor!" Miyata, stirred out of his self-admonishment session, quickly pulled out a headset from a bag in his jacket: small, elliptical pods that bore various points and indentations on a single side were banded together by a thin strip. "Here, hold still."

Shinji blinked as Lieutenant Ibuki placed the headset on and affixed the gray pods to his head, briefly wincing at the chill of the cool metal on his skin. "What are these?"

"A10 nerve connectors."

"Huh?"

"They help synchronize the Pilot with the Evangelion. They serve as an interface between your cranial nerves and the nervous system of the Evangelion!" helpfully explained Miyata.

'Helpfully' being a relative term, of course. "Huh?"

"Essentially, you move the Evangelion by 'thinking' at it," elaborated Gendo.

"Oh. That sounds…pretty cool, actually." A giant robot that moved according to his thoughts? Regardless of how insane NERV seemed to be, that was straight-up awesome. Annette would be seething with jealousy when she found out. "Is there anything else I need to know?"

"The Entry Plug will be flooded with LCL to assist with piloting."

Shinji glanced at Miyata. "LCL?"

"Link Connect Liquid! A hyper-oxygenated liquid that fills the entire Entry Plug, providing the medium by which your thoughts interface with the nervous system of the Evangelion. It also serves as a buffer for the Pilot itself, sort of like CSF for a human brain!"

Shinji stared. "…uh…"

"What Lieutenant Ibuki is saying is that LCL is a cushioning liquid that you can breathe."

Shinji turned toward his father. "Why not just use…you know, air?"

"The theoretical capabilities of an Evangelion include speeds beyond that of Mach 1." Gendo pushed his shades up with his index and middle finger, simply for the sake of the dramatic image. "Notwithstanding the high probability of getting into close-quarters combat with the Angels, the Pilot being reduced to a sack of boneless flesh from simply moving the Evangelion is not something we want happening. Hence the LCL: it provides protection for
the Pilot. Besides, as Lieutenant Ibuki said, it is the primary means by which your mind connects to the Evangelion."

"…I see." Shinji mentally chewed on the idea. So LCL is a liquid I can breathe, it apparently 'connects' me to the Evangelion…and it also keeps me from being turned to paste if I get hit. Shinji was understandably pleased at the idea of not dying from a single blow. Or from actually moving the mecha. "…neat."

"I know!" exclaimed Miyata. "Akagi-senpai wanted to call it something else though, but the Professor settled on Link Connect Liquid."

"It accurately describes the function of the material. I.E. it sounds scientific." And despite all images to the contrary, Gendo WAS a scientist with a Ph.D in metaphysical biology. It was practically required that he say something scientific every once in a while. "Besides, Dr. Akagi's objections weren't sufficient to overrule my decision." Her lamentations regarding the 'outage of fanboys over an incorrect acronym' and the 'foolish defiance of death and rebirth' had been summarily dismissed.

Besides; he liked Tang, and LCL was most definitely not Tang, no matter how much Dr. Akagi insisted otherwise. Alas, there was no time to muse on such things. "Lieutenant Ibuki, get to your terminal."

"Sir, yes sir!" Miyata promptly slapped Shinji on the back before taking off. "Good luck Ikari-kun!"

Shinji watched as Miyata took off (wincing, sure that there was now an imprint in his back) before turning to his father. "You've hired the craziest people I've ever seen."

"And they're the best at what they do. As I'm sure you can attest, they also made for the most unique welcoming committee of all time. I win no matter how you look at it." Gendo Ikari helped Shinji situate himself into the Entry Plug; the inside of it was rather bare, possessing only a bulky seat for the Pilot to sit in. Thick handles were situated above the slots where the legs would go; for all intents and purposes, it bore a greater resemblance to an arcade
machine than a cockpit for a machine of war. "Take a seat."

Shinji obediently set foot into the Entry Plug, positioning himself into the seat. Given the sheer size difference, it suddenly seemed silly for him to be in there. "So…what now?"

"We'll be with you every step of the way." Gendo grabbed onto the hatch of the Entry Plug, staring intently at his son, trying not to imagine the cylinder as an elaborate coffin. "I'll see you again."

Shinji gulped, suddenly feeling the anxiety return. With no more weirdness, no more insanity, no more strange employees…there was only the impending battle against the Angel. "…s…so will I."

What else could be said? To say anything else would fracture all the confidence he had built up to that point.

Professor Ikari nodded before shutting the hatch, locking it into place with a twist and a click of the handle. The sound of the hatch being shut echoed with a telling finality, one that he wholeheartedly ignored. There was no time to dwell on how dangerous this was.

He watched briefly as the hydraulic arm transferred the Entry Plug away, taking it towards Unit-01. Keep him safe Yui.

With a flap of his cloak, Gendo Ikari turned and departed for the Operations Deck.

xxxx

Just calm down.

Shinji Ikari was unsuccessful at getting his heart to stop pounding.

Not that one could blame him, given that he was about to go into battle against an Angel.

Just calm down!

"Coolant has now been leaked!"

Shinji yelped at the sudden voice breaking through the Entry Plug's speakers.

"Preliminary hardware specs read normal!"

Another voice.

"Cage now in position for docking!"

Were those technicians? Had they decided to let Shinji in on the whole activation process?

"Signal terminator has been ejected. Now inserting the Entry Plug!"

Though Shinji felt the physical movement of the Entry Plug, he couldn't see what was happening; Unit-01's armor had shifted away, revealing an insertion point for the Plug near the back of the neck. Once the hydraulic arm had inserted the Plug, Unit-01's external hardware took care of the rest, screwing the Plug deeply into its spine. Shinji was unaware of this twisting; the actual innards of the Entry Plug were built within a swivel, which the outer shell of
the Entry Plug used to twist around without disturbing the Pilot. After the insertion was completed, the swivel locked into place.

"Plug, locked in place!"

Shinji gulped as the Plug shifted once more, unaware of the Evangelion's armor locking back over it.

"Connecting Unit-01!"

Shinji recognized that voice. Ibuki-san? The red lights suddenly shifted colors, changing to yellow and blue and green and back again before settling on fluorescent light. The polished surface of the Entry Plug nearly glowed under the bright light.

"Shinji-kun!"

Shinji blinked. "Er, Misato-san?"

"Were you told about LCL?"

"Y-Yes ma'am."

"Oh good! Try and get it all in a single gulp! Holding your breath just makes it worse. Just ask Rei!"

"Er…"

"Filling the Entry Plug."

Shinji had no time to ponder how similar that voice sounded to Miyata Ibuki before a liquid, colored a strange fusion of orange and amber, began to fill the cockpit. Shinji, despite knowing he wouldn't drown, couldn't help but impulsively hold his breath. This is crazy, this is crazy, this is so freakin' CRAZY!

"Just breathe the LCL Shinji," admonished Dr. Akagi in a very matter-of-fact tone. "It'll be better to just get it over with."

Don't breathe it in don't breathe it in don't breathe it in-!

"BLARGH!"

Shinji grimaced at the odd taste in his mouth, almost forgetting the fact that he wasn't drowning. "This stuff…tastes icky…"

Ritsuko grumbled dramatically. "I told you that we should've put orange flavoring in there! But would anyone LISTEN?"

"Akagi-senpai, we still haven't developed a compound that can do that without negatively altering the chemical properties of LCL."

"Good point Maya!"

"I'm Miyata."

"YOU'RE STILL JUST AS PRETTY!" roared Ritsuko.

"Thank you for the compliment senpai!"

"Shut up Maya!"

There was distinct sound of a young woman's whimper. It was a dead-on impression of a wounded puppy.

Suddenly, the odd taste of LCL didn't really bother Shinji. He didn't know whether to be grateful for the distracting antics of Dr. Akagi…or to lament the fact that he was entrusting his life to people like her.

"Enough with the peanut gallery!" roared Misato. "Continue the activation process."

"Connecting main power!" Klaxons wailed and yellow lights flashed as a mobile hydraulic platform connected Unit-01 to the Geofront's main power grid. The actual link, oddly enough, resembled the handle of a gas pump, with the pump itself inserted into the Evangelion's back. "All circuits are transmitting!"

Miyata's voice echoed once more. "Connecting secondary contacts!"

An electrical current rushed through the LCL, initiating an instantaneous phase shift. Shinji stared in stunned silence as the liquid suddenly took on the properties of air: just as transparent, just as thin, and just as resistant (i.e. not very). Were it not for the bubbles that leaked from his mouth, he wouldn't have known he was submerged. "Whoa…"

Then the acid trip began. So to speak.

Shinji's eyes dazzled as sparks and pinpoints of light danced throughout the Entry Plug. The metal walls of the Plug shifted to an endless rainbow before mutating into a forest-green web of lines and curves that seemed to go on forever; at last, a wormhole of red encompassed the Plug before all went dark. Moments later, Shinji saw a familiar room; it was the chamber that Unit-01 was situated in.

"A10 nerve connectors are stable! Setting Language Interface for Japanese!"

Maya's voice initiated another brief flashback to just minutes before. The A10 nerve connectors…Miyata-san said they connect me to the Evangelion. The vantage point was unfamiliar, but the angle and position said it all. I'm looking through the eyes of Unit-01…

Cool.

"All preliminary contacts are stable! Performance is nominal!"

With adequate power and a connection established, the presence of Unit-01 finally made itself known.

Shinji Ikari felt a strange warmth encompass him. It wasn't uncomfortable or peculiar; heck, it wasn't even physical. It was emotional, to be ironically precise; an unexplainable but loving tenderness that eased his anxiety and made his heart sing with joy. It was an instinctive reaction that Shinji could never recall feeling. However, he knew intellectually that most children experienced this at some point in there life.

A mother's love.

Mother…

Shinji smiled as the remnants of Yui Ikari synchronized with his mind, intent on only one thing.

Protecting her baby.

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"Bi-directional circuits are open," stated Miyata, his eyes watching two wave patterns slowly syncing up. "Synchronization ratio is holding at…fifty- nine-point-eight percent."

It was akin to a rookie baseball player getting two home runs at his first two times at bat. Wonderful, yet wildly improbable. Dr. Akagi stared in astonishment at the screens, watching as the various nerve connections listed themselves. "Amazing…"

"Harmonics are normal," muttered Maya, eyes wide with surprise. "No disturbances and no mental contamination whatsoever."

"It seems that we can proceed then!" Ritsuko turned towards Misato. "The Evangelion is ready to deploy!"

"Right!" Misato Katsuragi turned towards Shiori Aoba's terminal. "Okay Lieutenant Aoba, there are a number of possible points of entry in downtown Tokyo-3. Where should we deploy him?"

Shiori looked thoughtfully at the numbered grid representing the region about Tokyo-3. Speaking in a husky yet feminine voice, she answered, "I'd wager either Duct 4B by the shopping district or Duct 2A, right near the rocket platform. Either choice gives him some distance from the Third Angel, while allowing him freedom to move-"

"Belay that order. Deploy Unit-01 to Duct 22G."

Misato and Shiori turned towards Professor Ikari, confusion in their eyes. "But sir..." Misato looked at the grid. "That deploys him on the base of Mt. Hakone. That's rather far away, isn't it?"

"He needs a brief tutorial on operating Unit-01; emerging on the surface right in front of the Angel is counterproductive in that regard. That being said, the Ducts of the 22nd Ring are the ones farthest from Tokyo-3 that still possess access by roadway." Staring impassively at the image of the Third Angel taking out another Defender Gundam, he finished, "Until the Third Child is capable of freely manipulating Unit-01's AT-Field, I'd rather he not sink into the
ground with every step." After all, being over one-hundred and forty feet tall and weighing well over three thousand tons, an Evangelion without use of the AT-Field was simply too massive to walk upon surfaces that weren't heavily reinforced.

"SOMEONE STILL RESPECTS PHYSICS!" exclaimed Dr. Akagi, her monocle projecting the image of celebratory fireworks. "But given this crew, that shall be rectified shortly. PROBABLY BY ME! AHAHAHAHA!"

"Understood sir." Misato, ignoring Ritsuko's abrupt mood swing, quickly opened a communications link to the Entry Plug of Unit-01. On the holographic grid hanging in the air, an image appeared of Shinji, sitting in silence with a small smile on his face. He sure seems awfully cheerful. Maybe the Professor's good with pep talks? "Shinji!"

The Third Child was visibly startled, as if awoken out of a pleasant daydream. "Er, uh, yes ma'am?"

"We're going to deploy you outside of Tokyo-3, so you can get used to moving the Eva."

"Eva? Is that shorthand for Evangelion?"

"Indeed! The ultimate 'screw you' by mankind is also acceptable."

Shinji stared at Dr. Akagi. "…okay…"

"BEGIN LAUNCH SEQUENCE!" roared Misato.

Makoto Hyuga monitored the various affirmations by the technicians in Lymph Node-A, checking off the list as it went. "Primary lock bolts and umbilical bridge have been removed! Secondary lock bolts are now removed, as are the primary and secondary restraints. Removing tertiary lock bolts; batteries are being reported as fully charged!"

"My terminal reads the same. Unit-01 is ready to move!" stated Miyata.

Maya performed one last systems check. "All systems are go. Now moving Unit-01 to the launch pad."

Misato smiled. Like a well-oiled machine.

Shinji suddenly blinked as he felt movement; the Evangelion's Cage – the thick support apparatus that it was currently locked to – was being transported by rail. "What's going on?"

"Unit-01 is being moved the Launch Bay. The catapult is magnetically-propelled, so you'll be up on the surface in no time!" explained Misato.

Shinji frowned at the phrase 'magnetically-propelled'. It brought to mind memories of his father's…unconventional method of delivering a message. "That sounds…like it'll be fast."

"Just think of it as the world's fastest roller coaster. You could hold your hands up and scream if you'd like."

Shinji stared pointedly in response to Gendo's suggestion. "I'll…consider it." Unit-01 slowed to a halt, sliding into one of the multiple launch pads. The Cage locked into place as a magnetic charge built up; the various gates blocking the path to Duct 22G began opening.

"Launch pad is clear, and all gates are open. Unit-01 is ready for launch!" Misato turned towards her superiors. "By your command, Professor."

Kozou sighed as he took in the image of Shinji, steeling himself for what was to come, obviously emboldened by the presence within Unit-01. "Are you truly ready for this, Gendo?"

"Of course Fuyutsuki. If we don't defeat the Angels, we have no future." Gendo smirked as he pushed his shades back up. Now for the dramatic proclamation. All the practice would be worth it; with his right arm extending forward – palm spread out – and the other thrusting backward, his cloak splayed open as if caught by a gust of wind. Perfect for a scene that was sure to be repeated again and again. "LAUNCH THE EVANGELION!"

xxxx

/Launch Bay, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Shinji Ikari felt a brief sensation of clamps releasing his feet before a blanket as heavy as an anvil began smothering him. That, coupled with the unpleasant sensation of his organs flattening themselves, was what he was feeling. "GAH!"

The magnetic rail that Unit-01 was affixed to ran along the surface of the Geofront's outer shell, tracing a great circle before branching off through a tunnel at one of the various rail junctions. Moments later, the Evangelion emerged into the open air, coming to a halt at the base of Mount Hakone. "Ergh…some roller coaster…" Shaking his head to clear his vision, Shinji looked around…and gaped. "Whoa…"

The night sky shimmered with stars, though their light was dimmed by the ambience of Tokyo-3 and the towns and cities throughout the region. From his perspective, the massive spotlights lighting the roadway ahead of him seemed positively puny, like gum balls to a grown-up. Speaking of grown-up…

He was tall.

A square suddenly popped up in Shinji's vision, once again revealing Misato. "You okay up there?"

"If that was a roller coaster, I want my money back."

"Sorry Shinji-kun, no refunds!"

Shinji groaned at Misato's joke.

"Releasing the safety locks on the right arm!" Miyata Ibuki's voice echoed through the Entry Plug. "Okay Ikari-kun, trying moving your right arm. The handlebars are sort of like…placebos, shall we say; they don't actually control the Evangelion, but they give you the illusion of control, which is critical. Remember, 'think' at it!"

Shinji promptly did so, part of his mind still basking in the aura of unadulterated affection that permeated the Entry Plug. Although he unconsciously manipulated the right handlebar to move the hand, it helped bridge the connection to his conscious mind. 'I think to move the hand' is all fine and dandy, but the actual motions made it concrete. After all, it was only natural to assume 'Move the right handlebar' translated to 'The right hand shall move'.

Lo and behold, it did. A tentative flexing of the wrist, a wiggling of the fingers, a raising of the elbow.

Shinji looked with awe at the arm; to those observing the Evangelion, it looked as if Unit-01 was inspecting its own arm. A fist of purple with cornflower blue fingers and orange knuckles changed to a black arm with bright green strips; a ring of green about the bicep signaled another change to purple before meeting the shoulder, which bore the massive rectangular pylons – colored black with bright green tips – that had been seen earlier in the main
chamber. "It's moving…"

Shinji thought about looking down, and so he did. The Evangelion's torso was entirely black, with a cornflower blue plates over the pectroals and purple locks holding them in place. The rest of the torso was protected by three V-shaped pieces of indigo metal that wrapped around the torso, with the lowest covering the waist much like a codpiece. The legs themselves were of equally human proportions, monoliths of violet metal with orange kneecaps and
green plating over the feet.

A singular question came to mind. "What's with all the purple?"

"Because it's one of the colors that signifies death," answered Gendo.

"…then why not use white?" After all, that was the de facto color that symbolized death in Japanese culture.

"Already claimed by the Mark 06, and the possible option of red has also been claimed by Unit-02."

"The what? Are you saying there are other Evangelions? Why aren't they here?"

"Because the other Units are having finishing touches put on them, and we had no guarantee as to where the Angel would strike. Besides, purple is a perfectly manly color, if that's what you're concerned about."

"What the-? That's not why I…" Shinji sighed. He wasn't going to get a meaningful answer at this rate. "Never mind."

"Release all safety locks!" commanded Misato.

At her behest, the Evangelion was released. Shinji blinked at the sudden feeling of gravity taking hold of him; it was as though his limbs were heavier, thicker. "Ergh…" Don't fall don't fall…stand straight, stand straight! After a few precarious moments, the Evangelion seemed to regain its balance. "Whew…"

"Good work! Now, while you get the feel for moving around, let's introduce you to the weaponry!" Misato looked off-camera. "Lieutenant Hyuga, what
weapons do we have available for Unit-01?"

"At the moment, one Progressive Knife and the Mark II Handgun."

"Excellent!" Misato looked back towards Shinji. "Okay Shinji-kun, until we get the time for a proper demonstration of the Evangelion's systems, we'll be remotely opening your weapon compartments. In your left shoulder is the prog-knife, and in the right is the Mark II; let's start with the left."

At that moment, Shinji felt a slight tingle on his left shoulder; simultaneously, the left pylon flipped open, revealing a simple square handle. The boy tilted
his head to see the handle, humming thoughtfully as he reached up with his right hand and pulled it out with a loud click. "Huh…" Looking at the blade, it
looked like a Bowie knife, save for the fact that the blade itself was nearly twenty feet in length. "What's special about the knife?"

"It's a progressive knife! When activated, it vibrates at an incredibly high frequency, so much so that it can cut molecules!"

Shinji blinked at Miyata's explanation. "That's…really sharp."

Miyata chuckled. "I know!"

Shinji thought about flipping the knife around in his hand, switching from a forward hammer grip to a regular reverse grip and back again. The Evangelion simultaneously performed these actions flawlessly.

"Er…" Misato gulped, apparently watching Unit-01 through a camera outside Duct 22G. "Shinji-kun…be careful with the prog-knife, try not to drop it-!"

Shinji tossed it into the air. Flipping over and over, it slowly fell back down…being caught in a reverse grip. The teenager frowned at the sensation in his hand; despite the fact that the prog-knife easily weighed thousands of pounds, it only felt as if he were holding a 'human-sized' Bowie knife. "This is wild…"

"Um…wow." Misato's flabbergasted expression was a sight to see. "That…wasn't bad, actually. You sure are good with a knife, Shinji-kun!"

Shinji chuckled nervously. "Well…I have had some practice…"

"Oh?"

xxxx

/May 2013/

/Shoreline, Ruins of Okayama-1/

"SHINJI!"

"What's wrong Annette?"

"LANDSHARK!"

"…WHAT?"

"Quick, grab the machete!"

"What! WHY ME?"

The beast roared, and the children screamed.

xxxx

/September 20, 2015/

The ensuing silence, oddly enough, was rather deafening.

Shinji chuckled. "Yeah, that sort of thing tended to happen…"

"…okay, I must admit that I was wrong; you're definitely the son of Professor Ikari." Misato grinned in a manner befitting an imp."When this is over, I am hearing the rest of that story!"

Shinji slumped, groaning as he pondered whether or not to be proud that he was called his father's son.

CHYOOOM!

The sound jolted Shinji out of his introspection, forcing him to gaze beyond the foothills of Mt. Hakone. Tokyo-3 was barely out of his line of sight; the massive violet cross was not.

Misato scowled. "…okay, we're gonna have to improvise. Hyuga, lay out a path to Duct 15E. Maya, relay it to Unit-01!"

"Roger!"

Moments later, Shinji blinked as a trail of orange appeared, superimposed over the road towards Tokyo-3. "Huh?"

"This trail will lead you to another Duct where you can hook up to another umbilical cable. You'll need the extra length if you're going to engage the Angel." It seemed as if Misato were looking directly into Shinji's eyes through the video link. "The defenses of Tokyo-3 will be aiding you, and the Defender Gundams under the command of the P2 System will also be pitching in."

"…you have Gundams too?"

"We're NERV."

Strangely enough, that explained it all. Using mobile weapons that had been denigrated by most militaries seemed like a quintessential 'Gendo' move.

"All I can ask is that you don't die, okay?"

"U-Understood, Misato-san…" Shinji gulped. 'Don't die.' Nice thought. A reassuring caress seemed to envelope him, easing his fear. I'll be okay…I'll be okay…I won't run away…

"Allow me to add one more order for when you meet the Angel."

Shinji looked up, seeing his father's face in the video grid. His hands were folded in front of his face, hiding all features. In particular, the lights of the Operations Deck were reflecting off of his orange shades, making him look like a stereotypical evildoer from an old anime. "Er…yes father?"

"...kick its ass."

Shinji impulsively snickered; after having lived with Aunt Alicia and Uncle Tomoe for so long, a parental figure saying something so juvenile was downright hilarious. It certainly lightened the mood. "Yes sir!" Gripping the handles tightly, Shinji steeled himself for the upcoming battle. "I'm moving out!"

With a lumbering stride, the Evangelion advanced.

xxxx

CURIOUS.

The [intelligence/coordinator] was withdrawing the remaining entities. In all probability, it was acting in [conjunction/accord/synchronicity] with the entity that had just emerged from the 'Black Moon'.

The most [peculiar/fascinating] thing was that this entity lived on multiple planes of existence. HOW INTRIGUING. HAVE YOU LILIM MANAGED TO [CRAFT/BIRTH/MANIFEST] AN ENTITY [COMPARABLE/EQUAL/CONGRUENT] TO ME?

The entity was approaching slowly; although of a much larger scale than the previous [nuisances/pests/trivialities], the most intriguing facet was how much of the entity was present in Sachiel's multi-dimensional perception. The sheer amount of [energy/essence/life] that the creature exuded was actually pressing [down/against/upon] the lattice that the universal contours traveled over.

PERHAPS YOU HAVE [APPROPRIATED/STOLEN/LEARNED] THE TECHNOLOGY OF YOUR [CREATOR/MOTHER/SOURCE]. Such an enterprising species, if that were the case.

Suddenly, the entity began to speed up. Briefly localizing its senses to the lesser perceptions of the Lilim, the entity appeared to Sachiel as a violet giant, now running at high speed.

THERE IS TO BE A CONFRONTATION THEN. I SHALL [BREAK/END/ANNIHILATE/SUNDER] YOU AS WELL.

The entity was there, but now was here. The Light of its Soul suddenly felt a [foreigner/intruder/attacker] infringe upon it. A strange sense of ethereal violation came upon Sachiel before an uppercut sent it airborne.

[INDECIPHERABLE] CREATURE! YOU DARE [ABRIDGE/DEADEN/BREACH] THE LIGHT OF MY SOUL?

The Third Angel landed on its feet. A litany of oaths dedicated to the destruction of this newcomer and its [creator/source/inventor] manifested as a piercing howl that rattled Tokyo-3, right before its eyes glowed.

CHYOOOM!

xxxx

Shinji Ikari had never quite gotten over his misgivings regarding this whole idea.

Though he had known about the eventual return of the Angels, and why he – and he in particular – had to fight, the doubt and fear had dug in, clawing out a spot in the back of his thoughts. Even when his father and his new coworkers had distracted him with their various quirks and inanities, it had remained like a stubborn weed. Even the warm presence of his mother within Unit-01 hadn't completely smothered it.

That weed blossomed and grew the moment a cross of energy impacted Unit-01 in the chest.

"AAAAAAGH!" A burning sensation gripped his chest, coupled with a distinctly weightless feeling as Unit-01 sailed through the air. The Evangelion landed on its back and slid; in perfect synchronization, Shinji felt a dull scrape across his back. That hurt…that hurt…

"SHINJI-KUN!" screamed Misato. "GET UP!"

That really hurt…

The Third Angel was upon him, holding him in the air with both hands. The beast's elongated fingers wrapped around his wrists, and began to pull.

…but…

Unit-01 seemed to murmur as the Angel's arms flexed. The limbs bulged, as if spontaneously growing muscles.

…I've been hurt before!

Unit-01 curled both legs upward.

POW!

A thrust kick with both feet sent Sachiel flying.

Shinji grimaced as Unit-01 wobbled on its feet; even though the strength and power of the Angel would've annihilated any human, the Evangelion seemed to shrug it off relatively quickly. To Shinji, the pain, though great, was not as bad as he had expected it to be. True, he would later question (vociferously) his father on the wisdom of having the Pilot experience the Evangelion's pain. He would also question whether or not the Evangelion actually qualified as a 'giant robot'.

Now? He was marveling at the fact that he had sent a giant monster flying. I can do this…I can do this…I can do this!

Unit-01 clutched the progressive knife tightly before charging.

The Third Angel was getting back to its feet right as Unit-01 slammed into it, stabbing at the giant red sphere embedded into the Angel. The Angel let loose a dull growl, as though irritated by his efforts. A distinct smell of ozone lingered as the space about the otherworldly beast shifted.

An orange field of concentric hexagons flashed, blasting the Evangelion backwards.

"It's an AT Field!"

Shinji had no time to ponder Ritsuko's proclamation. All he knew was that it was in the way. I won't run away…I didn't come here just to run away…! With a frustrated howl, the Evangelion pounded on the seemingly impenetrable wall.

let

Shinji grimaced as he tried to pierce the AT Field with his prog-knife. It wasn't even budging!

me

The warmth was returning. Shinji kept pressing forward, confidence surging in synchronicity with the growing presence of his mother's remnants.

help

"Sync ratio is rising!" The voice of Maya didn't quite register. "It's at SEVENTY PERCENT!"

YOU

The phase space of the Angel's AT Field wobbled and weakened; the progressive knife slid right through.

The Angel's ensuing warble indicated, for lack of a better term, absolute shock.

Wasting no time, the Angel moved forward, clutching Unit-01's head with both hands. With a foreboding sound, both lances retracted.

BOOM!

The Third Angel's upper body vanished in a flash of fire and smoke as the remaining Defender Gundams opened fire, bearing rocket launchers proportional to their size. At the same time, various artillery cannons and rocket platforms opened fire, showering the Angel with a sample of mankind's deadly arsenal.

Taking the opportunity, Unit-01 stabbed the Angel's wrists with the prog-knife.

Misato's voice suddenly rang out. "Opening the right pylon! Grab the Mark II!"

Shinji reached up with his left hand, pulling out a large matte-gray pistol by the grip. It looked similar in design to a Desert Eagle (not that Shinji would know), save for the fact that each bullet was the size of a large sedan. I've never really fired a handgun before…

Then again, he was really close; aiming wasn't really an issue, right?

…always a first time for everything!

Shinji pressed the handgun against the large red sphere and pulled the trigger.

Bang!

The large projectile bounced off of the sphere. Am I doing anything?

yes

"That's the Angel's core! Keep hitting it!" yelled Misato.

don't worry

"Roger!" Shinji aimed and pulled the trigger again.

Bang!

The shrill titter that emanated from the Angel was a sick parody of a human's scream. With a lumbering twist of its torso, the beast retracted its arms, the prog-knife sliding out of the wrists with an audible splurch as purple blood leaked from shredded flesh.

The Angel's eyes glowed-

POW!

Unit-01's fist smashed into the Angel's face, halting its attempted attack with the energy cross. Not to be deterred, the creature raised both arms and aimed them at the mecha's chest.

KREEEN!

Twin lances of violet slammed into Unit-01, cracking the breastplate. To Shinji, it felt as if someone had just thrown baseballs at point-blank speed at his ribs.

It only made him roar. "My cousin hits harder than you!" Unit-01 stabbed the prog-knife into the Angel's mask, embedding it deep into the flesh.

The Third Angel responded by smacking Unit-01 in the face with the back of its hand, sending the Evangelion into a nearby office building.

Shinji grimaced, almost unmindful of the dull pain simmering across his face. The pain seemed fresher, sharper; on the other hand, the entire experience of piloting was that much clearer, that much more in focus. The ever-present maternal warmth, by this point, had completely inundated the Entry Plug. I won't run away…I won't turn back…

i'm here for you

I…

The Angel advanced, only for the Defender Gundams to strike at its legs in conjunction with another barrage of mortar fire.

don't be afraid

Won't…

Unit-01's eyes glowed.

Someone was screaming. "Sync ratio at EIGHTY PERCENT!"

LOSE!

The Evangelion's right hand curled into a fist before smashing into the red core. The shockwave from the sheer force of the blow caused the windows on the nearby buildings to shatter.

It also created a spider-web of cracks in the Angel's core.

Without hesitation, Shinji raised the Mark II handgun towards the core.

Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

The core cracked and splintered into hundreds of pieces, remnants flowing out as a crimson tide before a bright white light emerged from within.

"Energy readings are spiking!"Misato's voice was panicked. "GET OUT OF THERE!"

xxxx

[INCONCEIVABLE/IMPOSSIBLE/ASTONISHING].

Sachiel's very essence was [compromised/fractured/defiled]. There was no longer any way to maintain a [stable/complete] form.

You have been defeated. [Unfortunate/Distressing/Alas].

Sachiel recognized the [voice/presence/mind] as that of its kin. [INDECIPHERABLE], LISTEN TO ME. THE LILIM HAVE A [WEAPON/CREATURE/ENTITY] THAT IS [COMPARABLE/EQUAL/CONGRUENT] TO US.

I will endeavor to inform the others when they [awaken/rise/manifest].

MY CURRENT FORM IS [COLLAPSING/IMPLODING/SHIFTING]. THE RELEASE OF ENERGY MIGHT DESTROY THIS [WEAPON/CREATURE/ENTITY].

Do not be afraid, [INDECIPHERABLE]. Your soul will return to our [Creator/Father/Source]; you will be [INDECIPHERABLE].

I WELCOME [PEACE/ABSOLUTION/SLEEP]; IT IS MY [WISH/DESIRE/GOAL] THAT ONE OF YOU AWAKEN [INDECIPHERABLE] FROM WHEREVER THE LILIM HAVE [BOUND/VEILED/SUPPRESSED] HIM.

Worry not. It is only a matter of time before we are [one/complete/united]. Until then…be at peace.

Sachiel acknowledged its defeat. However, in death, it found solace.

The Angel's limbs became slack, wrapping around and constricting Unit-01 in a deadly embrace as its core ignited.

DOOOOOOM!

A green crucifix brightened the night sky, marking the grave of the Third Angel.

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"Blue Pattern's gone; the Angel's been completely destroyed."

The entire bridge crew stared in stunned silence as the screen on the holographic grid was blanketed with white light.

"What's the status of Unit-01?" Misato stood over Maya's shoulder, eyes twitching with worry. "Is Shinji-kun okay?"

"The MAGI are still inconclusive. There's still too much ambient energy from the Third Angel to get a clear reading," replied Maya, voice thick with concern. After all, she had just witnessed the possible death of the Third Child.

Misato grimaced. It couldn't end like this. It just couldn't! "…Pen-Pen, can you get a clear visual?"

"Wark."

"…nothing yet, huh?" Misato felt an odd twinge grip her heart. This can't be how it ends, is it?

Further behind, Gendo and Kozou calmly watched the suddenly solemn proceedings. The Sub-Director murmured, "Do you think he's okay?"

Gendo was quiet.

xxxx

it'll be okay

Silence.

xxxx

"Of course." Gendo thought it was interesting, how worried everyone seemed to be. For him, the outcome was a foregone conclusion. "There was never a doubt in my mind."

xxxx

don't worry…

Stirring.

xxxx

"After all, she would never let him die. Not if she could help it."

xxxx

you are NOT alone

A pained groan.

At last, he awoke.

xxxx

"We've got vital signs from the Entry Plug!" Miyata was downright ebullient. "He's alive!"

A cheer went up throughout the Operations Deck. The image finally cleared, revealing a kneeling Unit-01, arms crossed over its head. The armor of the mighty mecha was charred and cracked, as though a bomb had gone off right in front of it. Which, to be truthful, was a suitable explanation for what had just happened.

"Put the Pilot on screen!" ordered Misato, a confident and happy grin on her face. The Angel was defeated! They CAN be defeated! And our rookie didn't even die! Her evening was looking better and better.

Moments later, a video screen of Unit-01's Entry Plug appeared on the grid, revealing a somewhat bewildered and weary-looking Shinji Ikari. "So Shinji-kun, how're you doing up there?"

"…I feel…tired…"

"To be expected. You just beat the Third Angel after all!"

"I…I did?" Shinji blinked, as though suddenly waking up from a dream. "That…all happened?"

"Yep! You're a bona-fide hero!"

Another round of cheers erupted from the technicians and the various officers, prompting Shinji to nervously chuckle. "Well…thanks…I mean…" The Third Child yawned as the combat-induced adrenaline rush faded. Coupled with a downright exhausting day, he was on the verge of passing out. "…I had to do it…had to fight…" The boy's words drifted off into an incomprehensible slur, sleep finally taking him. The Evangelion's eyes immediately dimmed as
the sync ratio plummeted.

Dr. Akagi smirked. "An enterprising specimen! He's done…marvelously well. There shall be SCIENCE to do!"

"Give the kid a break before you traumatize him," reprimanded Misato. "Aoba, have a medical team extract the Third Child. Hyuga, you're in charge of retrieving Unit-01." The Lieutenant Colonel ruffled her hair before walking towards the exit. "Everyone else is free to do whatever. I'm going to prepare a victory party for our new Pilot!"

Gendo and Kozou stared as the Operations Director departed with a skip in her step. Fuyutsuki couldn't help but smile. "She seems to have taken quite a liking to your boy."

"That's why I've decided that she'll be Shinji's caretaker."

Kozou stared at his old pupil's face, expression hidden by folded hands. "Why Katsuragi?"

"My duties as Supreme Commander of NERV require long hours. You know this; I don't think he'll appreciate being alone at my relatively empty apartment. It's not like I won't visit."

"No, I mean, why her?"

"You are equally busy, Aoba is too axe-crazy, Dr. Akagi is too liable to experiment on him, and the Twins are sycophants to the person liable to experiment on him."

"What about Lieutenant Hyuga? He's rather well-adjusted amongst the senior staff."

"He's too normal."

Kozou Fuyutsuki resisted the urge to sigh.

"Katsuragi is capable of being a mostly-responsible caretaker, and her life is just crazy enough to help Shinji acclimate to his new line of work."

"If you say so."

Gendo chuckled in response, all the while watching the holographic grid; the primary maintenance crews began to converge on Unit-01. "I know so. This is only the beginning."

xxxx

/Medical Ward, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Sergeant Rei Ayanami was somewhat conflicted as to her current opinion of the Third Child. Although confined to her room in the Medical Ward, she had been able to witness Unit-01's battle via the wall-mounted television, which transmitted a large, open view of the Operations Deck. Not only had she witnessed the bridge crew's actions during a full-scale operation, but she had been able to see the video feed of Unit-01's battle against the Third Angel.

All in all, she had to say that he was…adequate. There was certainly potential, but he needed a lot of polish.

I will have to inquire as to whether the Professor will let me train him.

After all, it wouldn't do to have an Evangelion Pilot be unprepared. The Angels to come would not be so easily defeated.

xxxx

To be continued…

Next time…

Episode 3: Welcome to Tokyo-3 (Memories, Changed and Unchanged)

xxxx

(And down goes Sachiel.)

 

[Ultra Sonic 007]

Just as a brief aside: for the past few years, the theme song for my hypothetical intro of MFE has been, of all things, Cha la Head Cha la.

It just...fits. Somehow.

Another brief aside: Misato's bike.



Just imagine that it's a bit longer, and you're gold.

Moving on.

xxxx

Bits and pieces, flickering out and rematerializing just as quickly.

A strange creature, wreaking havoc.

my dear boy

A purple titan.

you did so well

Pain…but it wasn't overwhelming.

your father must be proud

Victory. The cheers of so many, fading in and out.

i know i am

Darkness.

i'll be waiting for you

The voice and the darkness faded away.

xxxx

/September 21, 2015/

/Tokyo-3, Japan/

Shinji Ikari opened his eyes.

"Urgh…" A dull ache had taken residence in his chest, his face felt a little sore, and his skin felt tad bit sensitive. Given that he had just gone mano-a-mano with a monster straight out of a kaiju film, it could have been a lot worse. Where am I? What time is it? The window beside the bed he was lying on revealed a clear blue sky, so it was obviously daytime.

Slowly sitting up, Shinji noted that the white shirt and blue shorts that he was wearing were his. Several boxes lied at the foot of the single-size platform bed, noting that they were his. That's my stuff from Okayama-2. Was this his father's place? It certainly didn't look like it; it was much too small, and the colors were wrong; the walls were cream-colored, and the floors were covered by green tatami mats. No, this isn't my old room. Where am I?

Shinji turned towards the door…and paled. "…uh…"

"Meow."

xxxx

"WAAAAAAAGH!"

Misato Katsuragi blinked as Shinji Ikari bolted out of his new room, skidding to a halt by the table she sat at. "MISATO-SAN! THERE'S…A…" The panicked child's words trailed off as his eyes fell upon the erect-crested penguin sitting at the other end of the table. A penguin that was reading a newspaper. "…bwuh?"

Misato giggled. "Glad you're finally up. Anyhow, that's Pen-Pen!"

Shinji stared, noting the twin crests of red plumage running diagonally up the two-foot-tall penguin's brow. Turquoise eyes stared quizzically at Shinji, standing out against disks of white feathers. A pointed orange beak was currently nibbling on an anchovy, whilst three claws(!) were extended from each flipper, somehow gripping the paper. The legs, torso, and the front of the arms were white, whilst dark blue feathers covered the rest of his body. Although he bore brown, three-toed webbed feet, the penguin was currently wearing bunny slippers. Last but not least, a strange silver device was strapped to his back, wrapped around his shoulders and tethered by a buckle that bore the title 'PEN^2'.

Shinji kept on staring.

Pen-Pen swallowed the anchovy and let off a casual quack before turning back to the paper.

"So, what was with the screaming?"

Shinji turned towards Misato, noting that she was sipping from a can of Yebisu beer, wearing nothing but short-cut denim shorts and a tight-fitting yellow tank top that left absolutely nothing to the imagination. "Uh…there was a…cat, but it was-!"

Loud footsteps were head as metallic feet clambered into the kitchen. Shinji slowly turned, skin paling at the sight before him.

The metallic beast was eight feet tall, with proportions similar to those of a silverback gorilla: long, thick arms and shorter legs, save for the fact that the arms – easily seven-feet each in length – were able to prop the monstrosity upright. Large feet and odd, segmented hands suggested an attempt to add humanoid features, save for the fact that the feet were thicker than a phonebook and the hands consisted of black disks – varying in diameter from half a centimeter to one inch – that overlapped each other continuously. Given the large, hunched torso, the gleaming steel that the beast was made of, and the whirring noise emanating with every movement, it perfectly resembled an engine of destruction.

That effect was offset and yet simultaneously heightened by the fact that the head was that of an orange tabby cat; it seemed as if someone had built the robotic shell around the cat, leaving only a hole in the neck for the cat's head to pop out. Wide green eyes looked curiously at Shinji.

Needless to say, he was FREAKED OUT. "What…what is that?"

"Oh, that's just Ritsky's cat! He's named Randall!"

Shinji's head whipped around. Misato was being incredibly nonchalant about the fact that they had an eight-foot-tall robot controlled by a CAT in the kitchen! "…Dr. Akagi's cat?" Well, that explained a bit. "Randall…" Memories emerged from yesterday, from when he had met Miyata Ibuki. In particular, how Miyata had recalled his initial meeting with Dr. Akagi. "This…is that Randall?"

"The one and only!"

Definitely not what Shinji had expected.

"He kinda comes and goes as he pleases, but he's harmless!" reassured Misato, finding Shinji's reaction absolutely humorous.

The young teenager slowly turned back towards 'Randall', who had opened up a small slot on the left forearm to reveal a keyboard. The disks on the right hand shifted and tightened up, becoming smaller fingers that enabled greater dexterity.

After typing some keys, a digitized voice echoed out from Randall's robotic torso. "GREETINGS FRESH MEAT. A PLEASURE TO MAKE YOUR ACQUAINTANCE."

Shinji promptly fainted.

xxxx

Episode 3: Welcome to Tokyo-3 (Memories, Changed and Unchanged)

xxxx

/Keter, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Gendo Ikari was a rather big fan of symbolism. Entire ideas and philosophies, summarized in a single picture. Symbols could also take on other forms; moods, actions, personalities. Even names could be symbols.

Hence the name 'Keter', Hebrew for 'crown'. It was in this dark chamber, laden with hologram projectors, where the crown of the world convened, so to speak. It was a place where men, possessing great wealth, privilege, and power, gathered to discuss events far above the understanding of mortal men.

Grandiose verbiage to be sure, but it was certainly more interesting to think of it in those terms. Simply calling it the n-th meeting of the Human Instrumentality Committee didn't have the same charm.

"Gendo Ikari, you do realize that repairs cost money, yes?"

That, and it mitigated the fact that he had to deal with the relentless henpecking by its members over supposed setbacks and so-called 'questionable' decisions. True, the Committee, officially, was a sanctioned UN body designated to the oversight of NERV and its activities, but every man in this meeting knew that it was a farce. Such was the power at the fingertips of the men on the Committee.

"Along with the development costs for Unit-00, plus the amount of destruction wreaked on Tokyo-3's defenses, we're concerned about your ability to use funds efficiently."

Gendo quietly gazed at the projected images of the men about him; including him, there were six people in the meeting, the projectors situated to give the impression that they were all sitting at a rectangular table. Gendo's seat was emanating white light, as was that of the seat across the table. To his left, in a clockwise manner, the seats bore the colors blue and yellow, with the seats on the right similarly bearing green and red. Clad in dark business suits tinted by the light of their respective seats, the four to the left and right of Gendo continued their 'interrogation', as they probably thought of it. As if. It was all a show for those who didn't know any better, one he had to put up with, much to his annoyance.

"Have you read the preliminary costs for repairing Tokyo-3?" Green, a black man with short hair, glasses, and a bushy mustache, was Marvin Cleveland, the representative of America. "It's in the billions of dollars Mr. Ikari! These sort of expenditures can't become a regular occurrence."

"News of the Third Angel's attack is already starting to spread." Yellow, a somewhat scrawny man with swept-back brown hair, an unsettlingly long nose, and a laughably large bald spot was Augustin Fourier, representative of France. The ever-present sniveling tone didn't help Gendo's perception of him. "Despite the fact that Second Impact's true nature is public knowledge, it's always prudent to try and prevent the masses from panicking."

"We can only hope NERV is up to the task," remarked Blue, a large man with a stout chin, long nose, and long sideburns that fell just short of Go Nagai. He was Stanley Morrison, representative of the United Kingdom. "I have my doubts, given your well-documented…eccentricities."

Gendo, hands folded in front of his face, calmly replied, "It's been taken care of."

"There's also the issue with the Pilot." Red, a solid man with slim brown hair and piercing blue eyes, was the representative of Russia. "We've learned that you used your own son to control Unit-01. Although the results were relatively favorable, accusations of nepotism aren't what NERV needs at this stage." Unlike the more low-key members of the Committee, Russia's representative was somewhat more famous, having been the country's former President from 2000 to 2008. Since he had kept Russia in a stable state (relative to most of the world) during Second Impact, the Impact Wars, and the rebuilding years that had followed, he had some high degree of popularity. Or notoriety, depending on who you were.

Not that Gendo cared. "The Marduk Report on the Third Child is a matter of public record. As per NERV's charter with the UN, we have no input on the selection of the Pilots." Ha. What a farce. "You know this as well as I do, Mr. Putin."

Vladimir narrowed his eyes. "It is something that you should keep in mind."

"I'll consider it."

"At any rate, the tasks of defeating the Angels and maintaining the Evangelions are not your only responsibilities," admonished Putin, who was reading from a rather familiar report:

TOP SECRET

Human Instrumentality Project

United Nations Supreme Council

Seventeenth Interim Report

Human Instrumentality Committee​

It was the most recent report by the Committee regarding the Human Instrumentality Project, ostensibly a scientific endeavor dedicated to humankind's evolution, officially sanctioned by the UN.

"Indeed. The Human Instrumentality Project should be your top priority," concurred Fourier. "Given the desperate circumstances that the world faces, that Project might be the only hope for all mankind."

Gendo ignored the French representative, focusing his eyes upon the man sitting at the opposite end of the table, whose seat was also in white. Clad in a thick brown jacket and wearing a red and white visor that wrapped around his head, looking like a highly-advanced headset for the uninitiated. In all actuality, it enabled the elderly man to see. Such a disadvantage evoked images of weakness, but it was nothing but a feint.

Despite his graying hair and advanced age, he was the real kingmaker: Keel Lorenz, representative of Germany and Chairman of the Committee. "In any event, there is no excuse for the delay in the Project."

Gendo was silent. Here comes the expected threat.

"We may consider adjusting the budget."

Such words would normally strike fear in the heart of any UN agency or bureaucratic body. Despite the need for funds, Gendo was unmoved by the threat.

"The rest of the meeting does not concern you," said Cleveland. Morrison added, "Your presence was…appreciated."

As one, the projectors for the French, Russian, British, and American representatives winked out, leaving only Gendo and Chairman Keel.

The latter's small chuckle was indicative of the shift in mood, now that they were no longer in the 'official' meeting. "Pretenses are a tiresome game, aren't they Ikari?"

"A necessary evil."

Keel's lips contorted into a familiar frown. "Despite the restrictions we must endure, our objections are not to be dismissed. After all, we can no longer turn back after this point."

"I know," replied Gendo, already knowing of how it all would end once the Angels were defeated. "Mankind has no time left."

Chairman Keel's hologram winked out, leaving Gendo on his own.

These meetings were so bothersome. Ineffectual sniping for the sake of the official report; on the other hand, they provided the Committee ample opportunity to try and make him slip up, to have him show weakness.

Vexing, but well-played on their part.

Grimacing, the Supreme Commander of NERV stood up, heading towards the single elevator that connected Keter to his main office.

Speaking of which, one point that had to be made regarding the office of Gendo Ikari was that it was downright massive. His office encompassed the majority of the top floor of the NERV pyramid, with three sides of the room exposed by window to the Geofront. Being ninety feet wide, seventy feet long, and fifteen feet high, Gendo's office could properly be called cavernous. The sheer sparseness of the room lent to that feeling; the only visible furniture was a black desk and a single leather chair.

An elevator platform descended from the ceiling, dropping Gendo by the desk before locking back into place. The Supreme Commander looked at the black ceiling of his office; upon it was a massive diagram of the Tree of Life, a symbol of the Jewish Kabbalah that described the path by which the universe was created. Looking down, he noted that the black floor bore various equations and schematics detailing the intricacies of S2 Theory. All in all, the spartan nature of the office and its esoteric diagrams evoked feelings of isolation, emptiness, and paranoia on part of anyone who visited.

Hmm. I don't think I'm scheduled to terrify anyone today.

Gendo pressed a blue button underneath his desk.

Promptly, the Tree of Life vanished, the built-in ceiling display now showing the head of an orange tabby sticking out of the ceiling, complete with the large caption 'RANDALL IS WATCHING YOU'. On the floor was a large picture of himself pointing in a manner akin to America's Uncle Sam recruitment poster. The caption beneath it read 'I WANT YOU TO MAKE ME A SANDWICH'.

Better.

Gendo sat down behind his desk, still feeling a little irritated by his meeting with the Committee. Thus, it was time to engage in a rather cathartic ritual that, according to Fuyutsuki, was 'delightfully disturbing'. Or disturbingly delightful. Either one worked.

Gendo pressed a different button underneath his desk, this one colored violet, for it sounded similar to violence.

The ceiling above his desk opened up, and a retractable claw descended, holding a diorama that depicted the five members of the Human Instrumentality Committee in a five-to-one scale. As the claw receded, Gendo stared at the figurines, each one crafted from clay and colored with exact detail. Stanley Morrison, Marvin Cleveland, Augustin Fourier, Vladimir Putin, and Keel Lorenz seemed to be glaring at him.

Gendo pressed the violet button again.

THWOMP!

A giant anvil had fallen from the ceiling and onto the desk. Gears whirred as the anvil receded, pulled up by a thick chain of steel links. The clay figurines had been smashed into tiny pieces.

"Oh no!" yelled Gendo in an overtly melodramatic fashion, standing up as though he were shocked into movement. "The Committee! They've been crushed! Oh, how TERRIBLE! Taken down before their time! TRULY, THEY WERE THE FINEST MINDS OF THEIR GENERATION!"

The Professor sat in his chair, immediately calming down.

With one last press of the violet button, the top of his desk tilted over, causing the clay remnants to slide into a hole that had opened up in the floor; the red glow and wavering air indicated that the hole led to an incinerator. After a few seconds, everything in the office was as it once was; a perfectly normal desk, no pieces of clay, no holes in the floor or ceiling, and no over-the-top acting.

The only difference was that Gendo Ikari was smirking.

Then he pulled out various acquisition forms from his desk drawers and went about his business, once more sporting a stoic expression.

Just another day at NERV.

xxxx

"And you didn't have this with you yesterday because…?"

"I can't do much if I have to deal with the sidecar. Besides, you're a boy, I figured you'd enjoy being next to a mature, beautiful woman."

Shinji rolled his eyes at the word 'mature', leaning back into the red sidecar that had been attached to the side of Misato's motorcycle via a rigid frame that latched onto the underside of the bike. Since the Lieutenant Colonel had given her word not to do any more stunts (notwithstanding another Angel attack, he thought with a brief twinge), the boy felt safe enough to observe his surroundings.

Yesterday, Tokyo-3 had been an empty tomb, with the only activity coming from remotely-controlled Gundams and defensive platforms. Even whilst fighting the Third Angel, the utter lack of any human presence had rendered the whole city false, nothing more than a cardboard background for two titans in a kaiju movie. There was nothing real, nothing of note to justify its existence.

Now, the whole place was teeming with noise. The klaxons of construction vehicles combined to form a dissonant harmony, a perfect accompaniment for the legion of maintenance workers attending to the repair of Tokyo-3. Cranes lifted debris and new munitions alike, whilst massive trucks ferried materials and waste to and fro through the city. Shinji marveled at the sight of new artillery shells the size of cars; it only served as a stark reminder of just what he had faced last night. "That reminds me…" Shinji turned a curious eye towards Misato. "I'm still trying to figure this out; why in the world is your penguin the controller of those Gundams?"

Misato giggled as the wind ruffled through her hair, the feeling of speed and freedom making her whimsical. "He's capable of controlling them all in a simultaneous yet asynchronous manner. The only other possible Primary Coordinator would be any of the MAGI, but we need them in battle for operating the city defenses, analyzing the Angels, and monitoring the Evangelions themselves."

Shinji resisted the urge to twitch. "That still doesn't explain why a penguin can do it. Can't a human do it? Like, Dr. Akagi, or…I don't know, you?"

Misato shrugged. "Our brains can't handle the strain. We'd need some pretty heavy neurosurgery to be able to do it, and it would kinda render the person…well, lobotomized for the most part. At least, that's what Ritsky told me."

"…so how come a PENGUIN can do it?"

"Because Pen-Pen's special."

Shinji's expression was perfectly deadpan. I'll just chalk it up to Second Impact. Yes, that's the ticket.

Misato suddenly flashed Shinji a wicked grin. "Speaking of 'special', I want to hear about your landshark story."

Shoulders slumped as Shinji groaned. I completely forgot about that. "It's really no big deal…"

Misato's finger reached for the nitrous button.

"Okay okay OKAY! I'll talk!"

"That's a good boy!"

xxxx

/May, 2013/

/Shoreline, Ruins of Okayama-1/

Shinji Ikari was a person that one could call adequate in an academic sense.

Sure, he obtained good grades, but his attention was hard to capture unless the topic personally interested him. School was a necessity, but he was not one who loved knowledge to the point that it became more than a means to an end. No; for him to want to learn something, it had to be something that he needed to know about.

For example, how to play the cello. He had needed to join a club at school, and the Music Club had interested him the most. To ensure his position in the club, he had taken up playing the cello. That he had a preference for the sound of string instruments and a fondness for classical music were just additional benefits. Another example was learning how to cook; his Aunt Alicia was capable of whipping up some tasty delicacies with only a few ingredients, and he wanted to know how to be self-sufficient if ever he lived on his own. The 'Calculus of Cooking', as she had termed it, triumphed over 'Microwave Math' any day of the week (he could still remember Uncle Tomoe shaking his head and wondering how his wife came up with such corny phrases. That is, right before she threatened him with nothing but instant meals for a month, which was usually enough to cow the whole family).

Given Annette's hunger for exploration, Shinji had needed to learn survival techniques. Fortunately, his Uncle had been a veritable fountain of knowledge, recalling facts and details from his time as a policeman in Pre-Impact Kyoto. With that knowledge came an understanding of self-defense; in particular, how to use a blade.

Right now, Shinji was indebted for learning that much. He was also grateful that his Uncle's lessons resulted in a passable familiarity with the local flora and fauna.

Fauna such as landsharks.

"Well, NOW what?"

Shinji turned a twitching eye towards his cousin, his sarcasm mode at full power. "I don't know, maybe next time we can go exploring Australia. At least we'll be killed quickly!"

"Stop being a pessimist and start thinking! I am!"

The two bickering cousins were currently situated upon the steel framework of a collapsed office building, the beams providing a sufficiently safe haven from their current predator: a twelve-foot long bronze hammerhead with features that anyone Pre-Impact would have boggled at. For one, this hammerhead had two pairs of legs extending from its side, muscular appendages with clawed feet that could retract into the body whilst swimming. Also of note was the fact that 'hammerhead' was now a far more appropriate title, given the bony carapace covering the creature's titular feature.

Another minor detail: actual lungs that accompanied the gills.

Second Impact had done some strange things to the animal kingdom. Humans had been physiologically unaffected by the energy released during Impact, but most animals had endured some strange alteration or another, the effects becoming more prominent the closer one got to the South Pole. It was the reason why Canada's national animal was now the platypus, why Brazil's fishing industry was now the world's primary exporter of giant shrimp and squid, why honey badgers were now an apex predator in Africa, and why Australia no longer existed as a nation.

Shinji didn't really care about any of those details. Right now, he was just waiting for the landshark – as all such mutated specimens were colloquially called, regardless if they were a hammerhead or a tiger shark or a great white – to leave. "It can't stay out of the water forever; once it leaves to cool down, we'll make a break for it."

Annette sighed, legs dangling off of their impromptu sanctuary. "And how long will that be?"

"I…don't know."

BANG!

The steel beam jolted, launching Annette off of their safe haven. The girl landed awkwardly on her ankle, eliciting a pained yelp. The landshark, having just rammed the framework with its bony head, calmly stalked its weakened prey.

Shinji gaped, eyes wide as the hammerhead approached the limping Annette. Oh crap oh crap oh CRAP. What to do, what to do, think, THINK! Trying to climb down wouldn't get him to her fast enough, the landshark would be upon her by then. Do something, she's down there, do something, she's gonna die, do something do something DO SOMETHING!

Shinji stared at the machete in his hand.

DO SOMETHING OR SHE'LL DIE!

Annette paled as the hammerhead approached her, the flat maw open to reveal rows of sharp teeth. "Down sharky…nice sharky…be a good boy now, be a good boy. I mean, I don't taste good, I really don't!"

The landshark snarled. Annette gulped.

"YAAAAAAAARGH!"

The twelve-year-old Shinji landed on the landshark's back, roaring as his machete pierced through the soft flesh behind the hammerhead's helmet.

Landsharks being landsharks, it thrashed about, sending Shinji tumbling onto the ground. Blood and ichor oozed from the wound, causing the beast to gurgle. It could heal more easily in the water, but it wasn't leaving without a meal. The hammerhead stomped towards the reeling preteen-

POW!

The hammerhead snorted as a large rock slammed into its head. It turned towards the wounded Annette, who was holding up a small steel rod. "Come on you dumb brute! I may not taste good, but I bet he tastes even worse! No muscle, nothing but gristle!"

Geez Annette, thanks for the support. Inwardly, he knew Annette was just trying to distract the hammerhead, but still! "Annette, get out of here!"

"Or else what? My ankle's busted!" Annette was putting on a very brave face despite her fear. "Besides, no way am I leaving you behind."

The landshark snarled before turning back towards Shinji, who held the machete forward in a steady stance. A derisive snort was all Shinji got before the predator spun, smacking him aside with its hardy tail.

"GAH!" Shinji groaned as he rolled, clutching at his ribs. "Ow…ow…"

Sensing weakness, the landshark charged. Annette's eyes widened. "SHINJI!"

The young boy growled as he clenched tightly on the machete, eyes narrowing as he held the blade forward. I can't die here. Memories of a purple titan. I won't die here. Memories of a promise. NOT YET!

The landshark leapt as Shinji thrust forward with both arms.

xx

/Three Hours Later/

Knock knock.

The creaking door opened to reveal a giant of a man: at six feet and eight inches, Tomoe Ikari was a strong man, with a natural build and a thick musculature. Clad in plain clothes, bald as an egg, and bearing a thick black handlebar mustache, the tanned Tomoe looked like someone who wrestled bears for a living.

Needless to say, quiet appraisal was all he could do with the sight before him: his nephew covered in blood, holding an equally as bloody machete in his right hand, while his daughter waved cheerfully from atop the corpse of a landshark in their red wagon.

Shinji gulped under that piercing stare. "Um…hello Uncle Tomoe. Sorry we're late."

"It was just another adventure for us!" boasted Annette, who was obviously favoring her left leg. "Once again, humanity shows its dominance over the worst that nature can throw at it!"

Tomoe ignored Shinji's exasperated expression and Annette's obvious attempt to deflect his ire, focusing instead on the hammerhead. It had apparently been stabbed in the head behind the protective helmet of bone, barely missing both the brain and the spinal cord; the fatal wound seemed to be the open cut from mouth to fin, practically gutting the beast. Glancing at the machete, the tall man grunted before focusing on Shinji. "This your doing, boy?"

Shinji had gotten used to fidgeting whenever his Uncle looked right at him. Given their current condition, he could easily envision Tomoe ripping them a new one. "Um…yes sir?"

Tomoe looked once more at the hammerhead's corpse. "Okay kids, you're grounded from exploring for a month. Also…" The rugged man gave Shinji a rough pat on the head. "Good for you." That being said, Tomoe wrapped his arms around the landshark's body and hoisted it over his shoulders, despite the fact that it weighed over three hundred pounds. "HONEY! Clear off the kitchen table. We're having sushi tonight!"

The two simply stared at Tomoe's retreating back before following him into the house, trudging as the excitement of the day took its toll.

Needless to say, there was plenty of screaming and ranting by Alicia when she saw their condition.

xxxx

/September 21, 2015/

"…your uncle sounds like quite a character!"

Shinji shrugged. "He just wanted to make sure I grew up to be strong…"

Misato giggled; Shinji's tone, coupled with the way he had framed the story, indicated the respect he had for his uncle. "I'm glad you had people who cared." Now it was time for good old-fashioned ribbing. "Anyway, what a story! You were such a big, strong man." A wistful grin bloomed on her face. "Reminds me of an old friend…"

"Who?"

"My old boyfriend. We kind of split up due to our jobs, but he was a good man." Come to think of it, when's the last time I spoke to him? Is he still at NERV-2? "Don't think I've ever met anyone else who could hope to measure up…"

Shinji couldn't help but smile at Misato's nostalgic tone. Whoever this boyfriend of hers had to have been quite the person to make her so obviously happy. At that moment, his mind decided to bring up the notion that anyone that MISATO found attractive had to be as off their rocker as almost everyone else at NERV. Huh…maybe it's a good thing I'll never meet him. "So, uh…what did this guy do to 'measure' up?"

"Ooo~ooh?" That playful tone immediately notified Shinji that he had said the wrong thing. "Hmm, curious to see how you can become my boyfriend? I never knew you were so…adventurous."

Shinji blushed. She's just trying to bait me she's just trying to bait me don't fall for it don't show her that you're embarrassed! "Guh…" Damn it! "Er, not really, I was just curious! That's all!" The young teen groaned; why did Misato have to do that?

The Lieutenant Colonel, having scratched her itch to tease, decided to relent. "Simple: he had to win Pen-Pen's approval."

Shinji stared, as if struck dumb by the statement. "…that's it?"

"It's not easy."

"...why? How hard could it be?"

"Like I said, Pen-Pen's special."

The Third Child decided it was time to save his sanity and stop asking questions.

xxxx

/Keter, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"Your son is here to see you."

"What is his physical condition?"

"He's been travelling with the Lieutenant Colonel, sir."

That explained a bit. "Very well. Send him in." The Professor sighed as he returned the extending claw to the folds of his cloak. Perhaps the boy merits a break.

The double doors to Keter opened, revealing a somewhat weary-looking Shinji Ikari, but one who didn't seem THAT distressed. Hmm. He would have been able to handle the Claw relatively well. Gendo briefly entertained the thought of firing his secretary, but then relented; she was obviously concerned about the new hero of NERV, and wanted to give the boy a break. Very well. There will be other times to use the Claw. "Shinji."

"…father." The doors shut behind Shinji with a telling echo, once again plunging the office into the dim ambience that Gendo naturally preferred. Looking up and down at the image macros, the boy couldn't help but sigh. "You have a weird office."

"It depends on my mood."

The boy had no response, too focused on actually reaching his father's desk. It seemed so far away, yet only seconds passed before he was standing right there. Only a few feet separated him from his father; just a few short feet. So close…yet so distant. Even now, it still seemed so surreal, as though yesterday had been an incredibly vivid dream. He knew better though; the city was real. Misato was real. This place was real.

The warmth of his mother…that had been real.

So was the fact that his father was sitting right before him.

The Supreme Commander of NERV quietly stood up; despite the fact he was relatively diminutive compared to Uncle Tomoe, the man carried a strange edge that had always made him seem somewhat…intimidating, regardless of how much his quirks mitigated that. "You know…those glasses make you look creepy, even though you're not." Most of the time.

"I'm told that I'm a man of many contradictions. I've made it work for me." The Professor quietly gazed out the windows, subtly making sure all cameras had been turned off. With a quiet press of a switch inside his pocket, all of Keter was sealed from electronic surveillance.

After all, he had an image to uphold.

Gendo walked around his desk, staring at Shinji all the while. He quietly took off his orange shades, pocketing them within his cloak; any outside observer would have marveled at the similarities between father and son. His blue eyes met those of his son, still guarded even now. Habits were hard to break, after all.

So it was with fairly little aplomb that he knelt down to Shinji's level and wrapped his arms around his son's shoulders, a gesture filled with so much paternal affection that anyone watching would've boggled at the fact that the Professor was doing it.

Shinji, however, responded in kind, hugging his father around the neck.

Gendo mentally sighed. This was…pleasant. Despite the unfortunate circumstances that had plagued their family, this mitigated the pain. Somewhat; after all, the fate of all mankind would be decided within the year. Oh well. Fortune favors the bold. "Lesson #2: If you're going to cultivate an aloof image of any kind, keep all hints of physical affection behind closed doors, for such actions lessen your stature in the eyes of people who don't know any better."

Shinji couldn't help but smile as he hugged tighter. "I missed you too, father."

A brief moment. That was all Gendo could afford.

That's what he told himself as he quietly stood back up, returning his glasses to his face. "I'm sure you have questions," stated Gendo as he subtly turned all surveillance back on. It wouldn't do to have the Committee (once they inevitably managed to get their hands on the security footage) question him as to why he had dared to turn off his security cameras for less than thirty seconds. Yes, how dare he. "I shall endeavor to answer them to the best of my
ability."

The teenager followed his father over towards the impressive windows, looking over the entirety of the pristine Geofront. "Well…for one, how come I woke up at Misato's place?"

"You were drifting in and out of consciousness last night after being retrieved from Unit-01, due to fatigue and general stress resulting from synchronization. Fortunately, the medical staff concluded that you had no lasting injuries, so I released you to Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi's care for the evening."

"…why not our house?"

Gendo didn't even feel the urge to twinge, for he knew this question would be coming. "Unfortunately Shinji, circumstances haven't changed. My duties as the Supreme Commander of NERV require my attention, and the threats haven't abated in the slightest. Need I remind you of…last year?"

Shinji didn't bother to raise an objection, knowing exactly what his father was talking about. "Mother's…tenth 'anniversary'." He practically spat the word out, the very essence of it leaving a wretched taste on his tongue. "No….I haven't forgotten."

"It is still something that NERV will have to deal with, despite our security measures. Having you live in my house would just be an unneeded risk; after all, nothing will prevent me from visiting when I find the time." That seemed to abate his son's fear, judging by the loosening of the shoulders. "For the record, you will be living with Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi."

Shinji's eyes widened in alarm. "M-M-M-Misato-san?"

"She is a perfectly capable maternal figure, and is quite responsible. She is a notable marksman, and why are you looking at me like that?" Gendo noted Shinji's incredulous stare, trying to divine why exactly he was so terrified of the prospect of living with Misato. "Although she can be a bit of a lush, she's vastly preferable to Dr. Akagi or Lieutenant Aoba." Shinji was still staring. "If safety is something you're worried about, don't worry. Misato on her own is
enough, but that penguin of hers is overkill. You'll be fine."

This was becoming a disturbingly regular pattern for Shinji. "Seriously, what's so special about the penguin? He reads newspapers, he's given control over Gundams…I mean, why?"

The Professor, prone to offering nonsensical answers or non-sequiturs, settled for shrugging. "You'll have to ask the Lieutenant Colonel. Besides, that penguin was one of the reasons I hired her."

"…"

"What? It's true."

Shinji facepalmed.

"Any other questions?"

Shinji sighed, feeling a little off put by the abrupt mood whiplash that was his father. "Well…" What else was I going to talk to him about? "Um…well, what am I going to do now? You know, like day-to-day stuff; am I going to get more training?"

"Very good questions. In short, you will report to Dr. Akagi's Laboratory after this meeting to have your Plug Suit created. Don't worry, the Lieutenant Colonel will be accompanying you, so stop panicking."

Shinji blinked, unaware that he had been fidgeting. "Er, right."

"Secondly, you will then be given a brief tour of NERV's facilities. Third, you will be free for the rest of the day; however, starting tomorrow, you will be going to the local junior high school to continue your education and to retain some semblance of a relatively normal life."

"My life isn't exactly what one would call normal."

"Hence 'relatively' normal," explained Gendo. "Also starting tomorrow, you will put into a training program to familiarize yourself with tactics, strategy, close quarters combat, and firearms. You will be assisted by Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi, Lieutenant Aoba, and Sergeant Ayanami."

Shinji blinked, suddenly reminded of another thought that had been resting in the back of his head since last night. "Oh, that reminds me!" Memories of the blue-haired girl, cold disposition and stern red eyes…it spoke of how hectic the prior day had been that he had forgotten such a distinctive character. "Ayanami-san…where is she?"

"Currently at school. Most likely informing your classmates as to your arrival tomorrow."

xxxx

/Class 2-A, Tokyo-3 Municipal Junior High School/

"The Pilot of Evangelion Unit-01 will be attending this class beginning tomorrow. Much like myself, he will be attending for the purposes of socializing with his peers and establishing a means by which he can identify with the city he is now duty-bound to protect. Despite his deceptively passive disposition, he is capable of killing Angels, a feat that no modern military can claim. Therefore, due to his importance, I will have to ask that all of you treat him with the courtesy due his station."

Every student stared at Rei Ayanami, her exotic appearance in the school uniform somewhat marred by the fact that most of her left side was bandaged.

"If you do not, then I will have to enact disciplinary measures." Rei Ayanami's right hand was holding a thick metal pole from the gymnasium, which she suddenly placed into her mouth.

Those who had known Rei Ayanami for the last few years suddenly flinched, knowing that she was about do something unforgettable and utterly horrifying.

CRUNCH.

They weren't disappointed.

Rei Ayanami calmly bit the metal pole in half, her teeth audibly grinding through steel. Everyone stared with morbid fascination as the normally reserved girl spat out a glob of chewed up metal, which now appeared to have the consistency of chewing gum.

The students were quiet.

"I'm glad we've reached an understanding." Rei turned and bowed towards a girl with pigtails. "Thank you for letting me speak, Representative Horaki."

"Y…You're welcome."

Her task completed, Rei Ayanami bowed once to the class teacher (who did not seem bothered by the display in the least) before hobbling back to her seat.

xxxx

/Keter, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"…are you sure it's a good idea for me to be known as…a Pilot?"

"The student population knows that Rei is an Evangelion Pilot under the employ of NERV. She's handled it well enough."

"But then everybody's just going to want to be friends with me because I pilot a giant robot. How am I going to make actual friends like that?"

"I'm sure they'll be happy to be your lackey."

Shinji stared.

"Besides, the moment you introduce yourself to your class, they'll most likely have second thoughts. Those who still have the courage-slash-audacity to approach you afterward? They might be worth looking in to."

A feeling of dread percolated throughout Shinji's body. I don't want to know. I don't want to know. Alas, he had to know. "…why?"

"You will be introducing yourself as Shinji Ikari, no?"

That's when it clicked. "They'll know that I'm your son."

"Most people will automatically make that assumption: 'He pilots the Evangelion for NERV, has the surname of Ikari, which happens to be the surname of NERV's Supreme Commander'…get the picture?"

Shinji sighed, deciding to drop the point. "I guess I'll just wait and see…" There was still one thing that bothered him though. "…just for the record, why would they know you?"

Gendo chuckled as turned around, heading back towards his desk. "I make an effort to introduce myself to those who move to Tokyo-3; a simple gesture to the people we'll be protecting from the Angels. Unfortunately, since I'm usually busy handling affairs here at NERV, I often have to settle for a postcard." The Professor reached into one of the drawers, pulling out several of the aforementioned postcards. "Take a gander."

Shinji quietly took the postcards, flipping through each one. As he did, his expression became more and more baffled, as if simultaneously stunned and surprised by what he was seeing. The message on each one was the same: Welcome to Tokyo-3! Sincerely, Professor Gendo Ikari, Supreme Commander of NERV. Short and to the point; it even included his father's signature.

However, what was of real notice were the pictures that accompanied the message; on one was the image of his father standing stoically atop a cliff, waves crashing about in the background as the setting sun transformed him into a mere silhouette. On another, he was literally holding Earth in the palm of his hand. Another picture was of Gendo chokeslamming Gamera. They seemed to become more and more bizarre; Gendo smashing the moon into the sun with a baseball bat, Gendo engaging in fisticuffs with an anthropomorphic swarm of American Giant Hornets, Gendo playing Mahjong with a man that looked suspiciously like the Prime Minister of Japan, and so on and so forth. The last image was relatively innocuous: Gendo eating a simple sandwich, complete with a sound-effect bubble that read 'OM NOM NOM NOM'.

For all of the oddness and hilarity – intentional or not – of the pictures, they completely clashed with the single disclaimer that was included on the back of every single postcard:

If you received this message,

THEN I KNOW WHERE YOU LIVE​

Shinji glanced up, staring intently at his father, demanding an explanation with but a look.

"Lesson #3, Shinji: Make your first impression count, because you rarely get the chance for another."

"You know…being your son isn't easy."

"Every person, for at least one moment in their life, is of the opinion that being the child of their parents isn't easy. At least I make things interesting."

Shinji couldn't really argue that point. However, in thinking of how his future classmates would react to his presence, he wondered how they had treated Rei. This led to other questions. "Um…what about Ayanami-san?"

"What about the Sergeant?"

"Well, what's her story? I mean…you say she's an Evangelion Pilot, and she acted as if I was some newcomer…" Shinji mulled over her behavior the previous night, with a particular focus on her impromptu 'inspection'. "How long has she been here? I've known about your work for most of my life, and I've never seen her before."

Now came the tricky part. Gendo had foreseen such a question eventually arising; inevitable, really. Rei Ayanami was too distinctive a character, and his son would undoubtedly be curious as to where in the world someone like her had come from. After all, given that he was going to be fighting alongside her, it was only natural for him to ask questions. The only problem was how much to reveal. "There are some…aspects of Rei Ayanami's upbringing that are classified information. The details of the Sergeant's life are hers to tell, not mine. If you want to know, she's the one to ask."

The fact that Shinji didn't bother to slump – having received no useful answer – indicated how surprised he was that his father was actually being respectful of someone's privacy. "Okay…"

"What I will tell you is that, at the moment, I am considered the Sergeant's legal guardian. Currently, she is under the employ of NERV and has a military rank to go with it, but the legal loopholes regarding those distinctions are handled by me." Three…two…one…

"Why her?" Shinji felt a rare moment of frustration. "Why did she get to stay behind why I was sent away? What's so special about her?" True, his father had had very justifiable reasons for sending him away. Many of those reasons were ones that he agreed with! Why? His mind conjured up her bandaged form. Why? "Isn't she in just as much danger as me?"

"Yes. Unlike you, she can take care of herself." Shinji opened his mouth to retort. "And in this instance, I'm referring to one's capacity to survive in combat against multiple armed opponents."

Shinji stared quietly at his father, not quite mollified by the man's belief in Rei's ability to protect herself. "Then…why was she injured so badly when I saw her?"

Gendo pressed a gray button under the desk, causing a portion of the sleek black top to flip over, revealing a computer monitor. The Professor's fingers tapped against the touch screen as he navigated through folder after folder until he got to camera footage logged in on September 15. "I believe this will answer your question." He opened the file and turned the monitor about its swivel so that his son could watch.

Shinji watched in silence as the silent footage played; it was of an orange mecha, standing inside a sterile white chamber. An Entry Plug was inserted into it; less than a minute passed before red lights flashed and the Evangelion went berserk. The boy's eyes focused in particular on the sight of the cylindrical plug rocketing out of Unit-00's neck, ramming haphazardly into the ceiling before plummeting to the floor with what looked like a resounding thud.

"The initial jolt knocked her out of her seat. For the most part, she was bouncing back and forth inside of the Entry Plug before coming to a complete stop." The Professor decided not to mention how Rei had been mentally…'unbalanced' whilst synchronized with the berserker Unit-00. Theoretically and in practice, a sudden, discontinuous drop in one's sync ratio played havoc with one's senses; especially so when the Evangelion itself was out of control. Hence why the Sergeant had been unable to remain in her seat in spite of the turbulence. "Were it not for the LCL, Sergeant Ayanami would most likely be comatose as we speak."

The teenager frowned, leaning onto the desk with both hands. "Okay…okay…I see…"

"At the latest, it'll be tomorrow when you see why Sergeant Ayanami is more than capable of protecting herself. However, there were…various issues involved with her upbringing that made public life unsuitable for her. As for the other details…you'll have to get them from her." The Professor silently pulled an unopened bottle of root beer out of his cloak, twisting the top off with his teeth before taking a big gulp. He had mostly placated his son, but there was still some lingering doubt. What else is there to say…? "Shinji…listen." Gendo leaned forward, eyes looking directly into his son's. "I know my actions seem…off-the-cuff every now and then."

Shinji arched an eyebrow. "Only now and then?"

Gendo shrugged. "Everything I do…I do for a reason. Sure, the severity of those reasons varies depending on the nature of the action…for example, you." The man pointed at his son. "I prepared you for the reality of being a Pilot because no one else can synchronize with Evangelion Unit-01, for reasons you're aware of. On the other extreme, take this bottle of root beer." Gendo took another swig. "I had it with me in case I got thirsty."

"…that's not really that big of a deal."

"My point is that NOTHING I do is without meaning. The actions I took with regard to you were done so you could have some semblance of a happy childhood, safe from the dangers that my position as Supreme Commander of NERV entails. The actions I took with regard to Rei Ayanami, on the other hand, were different because her circumstances were different." With a calm sigh, laden with a hint of remorse so subtle that few would be able to catch it, Gendo Ikari reached across his desk and patted his son's clenched hand. "Never think for even a second that I could ever replace you."

The young child looked right into his father's eyes, trying to divine how truthful he was being. Given his eccentric ways, it was hard to tell when he was being serious or not…and yet, the sheer solemnity of the man's words was plain as day.

At last, the tension left Shinji's shoulders, and his hands relaxed. "I...I understand."

The Professor leaned back into his chair, mentally cheering that he had dodged a bullet. Granted, his face showed no indication of this, but that was beside the point. "Anything else?"

The boy, still coming to terms with the information regarding Rei Ayanami, recalled a rather pertinent observation from the fight with the Third Angel. It was even topical, since they had just talked about her injuries. "The Evangelion," muttered Shinji, still trying to regain clarity of thought. "I can't recall if I showed it…but it really hurt when I fought the Angel…why does the Pilot feel the pain…?"

"Quite simple. Pain is a part of life. It is the body's warning system. It signifies that something has gone wrong." Gendo reached into his cloak and pulled out a small switchblade. "In my youth, I got into a tussle or two." Or three. Or a hundred. "I often endured a great deal of pain…but it was how I knew my limits. Without pain, I would have simply wailed through everything, ignorant of a fatal stab wound that would cause me to bleed out. Without pain, I
would have fought in ways detrimental to my survival. Etcetera, etcetera." With a casual flick, the switchblade snapped shut. "The Evangelions function similarly."

"…I get it." Shinji grimaced, rubbing at the sore spots on his chest. "It's still troublesome to deal with."

"A lesson without pain is meaningless, be it the physical pain of experience or the mental pain of having it drilled into your head over and over and over again."

The boy sighed. "I guess…"

Hmm. We're treading murky water here. Time to reroute the conversation. "Now, given the stipulations of NERV's charter with the UN, I'm required to employ you if you're going to be a Pilot. As a result, you will be receiving a monthly stipend on the order of five hundred thousand yen."

"FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND YEN?"

Much better. "Did I stutter?" Gendo pulled open a drawer, browsing through various application files, seemingly oblivious to the sight of his son's flabbergasted features. "More than enough to live with some modicum of comfort, and I think your occupational hazards are more than enough to merit it. Given that the Lieutenant Colonel will be your primary caretaker, almost all of your salary will be, quote-unquote, 'spending money'."

"I…I mean, wow." Pre-Impact, the average salary varied anywhere between two hundred thousand yen to nearly six hundred thousand; even in spite of the shellacking that Second Impact had wrought upon the world economy, five hundred thousand yen was STILL a lot of money. "I really don't know what to say."

"Simply put, don't flaunt it. That's Lesson #4: freely advertised wealth attracts unwanted pests."

Shinji nodded, knowing that the situation at school was already going to be awkward enough without other complications.

"Now, for the sake of completion, you'll have to sign this." Gendo slipped forward a small contract, several pages in length. "If only to give the legal department a little more work."

The boy stared quietly at the contract, rife with fine print and bullet points. "…you don't have anything weird here, do you?"

"Elaborate."

"Well, you know…by signing this, I give away legal ownership of my organs. Or maybe I'll be obligated to ride with Misato on her bike whenever she wants." A frightful shiver passed through his spine. "Stuff like that."

"Not at all." Gendo pulled out another contract that looked similar to the one in Shinji's hands. "However, THIS contract does have 'stuff like that'."

"…" The boy sighed, wondering why he had expected anything different. "Why…?"

"This contract is for potential employees who are…questionable, to say the least." Probable government agents. People with links to the paparazzi. Spies of any order. People who were really really annoying. "Among other things, signing this contract mandates that Dr. Akagi be your primary physician, a feature absent from yours."

The relief in Shinji's eyes was palpable.

Gendo slid forward a pen. His child looked at contract again…no. Not a child. Shinji was about to take part in a war for the sake of humanity's future. He was a child in form, but not quite in mind; no one remains a child after getting a glimpse of the world's cruelty.

For most of the world's denizens, childhood was a luxury Post-Impact.

Amends will be made, swore Gendo as his son looked quietly at the pen. The future foreseen by the Committee will not come to pass.

"Okay." Shinji pressed the pen into the parchment. I've had years to think about this…and now I'm here. I've already defeated an Angel…and there'll be more coming. In a way, this would officially mark a new beginning. Well…here goes. "And…done." He pushed the contract back to his father, a timid smile on his face.

Gendo smirked. "Welcome to NERV."

Shinji's smile widened. "Does this mean I have to call you 'Boss' at work?"

"Professor will do just fine." The man calmly reviewed the document, adding, "As your primary caretaker, the Lieutenant Colonel will also review this contract and sign it as well, but it's mostly a formality." Gendo stood up and walked around, gesturing Shinji towards the door. "Speaking of Katsuragi, she'll now accompany you to Dr. Akagi's Lab where you'll be fitted for your Plug Suit."

"That reminds me, what is that?"

"Your uniform for piloting. Dr. Akagi will explain in more detail."

Shinji nodded as he turned towards the doors of Keter, under the impression that everything was taken care of-

"Shinji."

The boy paused, turning back towards his father, who was looking…pensive? Solemn? "Yes…?"

"Most people would say I had no business asking you to promise what you did." After all, the boy had been so young, not even ten years old. Alas, circumstances were what they were, and wishing didn't change anything. "In spite of everything that's happened…it doesn't change the fact that you did something very noble yesterday. You made me proud."

Shinji's chest swelled with pride as he resisted the urge to wobble, struck hard by the sudden praise. Don't cry, don't cry, that's your father standing right there, don't CRY. "Th…thank you."

Gendo smiled as he reached into his cloak, pulling out a small black sphere. "You're dismissed." He summarily slammed the sphere into the ground.

Smoke accompanied a blinding flash.

"GAH!" shrieked Shinji, caught off-guard by the sudden assault. The boy winced at the smell of sulfur, rubbing at his nose to try and ease the sting. As his eyes opened – teary from the flash, smoke, and the father-son moment – he noticed that his father was no longer there.

He had simply vanished.

Shinji sniffled, rubbing at his eyes as he digested everything that he and his father had just discussed…all the while marveling that the man was fundamentally the same: revealing moments of parental affection that were masked by an endless sequence of eccentricities. To be honest, he was still unsure exactly why his father acted that way; nonetheless, he could tell that the man cared.

Still…

Shinji looked up and down at the image macros, chuckling at both. "So weird…" With a content grin, the Pilot of Evangelion Unit-01 turned and walked outside, where Misato was waiting.

"Soooooo…how'd it go?"

"Well, I had a few questions for him…"

Their voices trailed away as the doors to Keter closed.

Moments later, Gendo peeked out from behind his desk, noting that no one else was in Keter. Wordlessly, the Professor sat back in his chair and pulled out more forms. After making a note to have Shinji's contract delivered to Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi, he alternated between filing various requisition forms to the UN and idly drawing sketches of potential Evangelion armaments.

What he really wanted to do right now was think and meditate; he wanted to fully register the fact that there was no turning back from this point. Alas, there was work to do.

His only hope was that his son's contract didn't turn out to be a premature death sentence.

xxxx

/Ritsuko Akagi's Laboratory, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"…wow."

"Big, isn't it?"

Shinji nodded dumbly in response to Misato, staring at the expanse before him. Maintenance workers in orange, lower-level technicians in beige, and the three head honchos in white lab coats, so to speak. Whole rows of computer terminals sat on the gray-tiled floors, monitoring the various experiments being conducted in the lab. Parts from Unit-01's armor were sitting on a large conveyor belt, which itself was connected to NERV-1's Parcel Transit System. At the moment, Miyata was overseeing an examination of the damaged breastplate. Maya was analyzing the data that had been collected during the entirety of the battle with the Third Angel. Elsewhere in the lab, sterile chambers housed odd bits and pieces, each being scanned by large devices. Overseeing these chambers was Ritsuko Akagi herself, alternating between observing the data being received from the scanners and personally examining a shard of violet crystal with her cybernetic monocle.

All of that, in and of itself, was just a small section of the lab; further out into the distance, one could see more computer terminals, large metallic cylinders, and complex-looking machinery. Walls of light blue and white halogen lights gave the setting an antiseptic feel that clashed with the industrial aesthetic of some of the machinery. The lab itself seemed to stretch out forever, though it might have just been a trick of perception. Surely.

Shinji tried to keep his nerves about him as he followed Misato further into the lab towards Dr. Akagi, hoping that the creation of this 'plug suit' would be…gentle.

"Hey, Ritsky!"

Dr. Akagi promptly ignored Misato's call as her cybernetic monocle – the center of which seemed to extend forward in a manner similar to a microscope – focused on the crystalline fragment. "Hmm…" She jotted down a few notes on a piece of paper that was absolutely riddled with ink. Shinji took a brief glance at the paper; there were various mathematical equations laden with question marks, with annotations stating 'Possible variant of the wave
equation?', 'Frequency does not vary depending on method of observation. Explore!', and 'Curse you Heisenberg!', the latter of which was crossed out and replaced with 'HA! Suck on it Heisenberg!' There were also other questions and notes on the paper, among which were 'Exotic matter? Compare samples with those of Evangelion.', 'Atomic and molecular structure: similar to those of ADAM within acceptable error.', 'Memo to myself: MINE FOR BRAINS!', 'Submit request for acquisition of a new Freeman device', 'Annihilation contained/minimized/nullified by AT field?', 'Send samples to NERV-Alaska; see what Dr. Mondschein can cook up', 'Sample 3-AM-1: matter and antimatter interacting without annihilation? PARADOX!', and 'Matter and antimatter annihilation in Sample 3-M-4: subsequent decay defies laws of conservation? ARRRRRGH.' The rest of the paper consisted of seemingly random doodles that Shinji had no hope of deciphering.

"Hey. Ritsuko!"

Ritsuko grumbled. "You sure picked a wonderful time to visit." She pulled a brown briar pipe out of her lab pocket, using the other hand to pull out a small tin of shredded tobacco strips. She lightly packed the strips into the chamber of the pipe, placing the bit into her mouth. Her monocle, visualizing the pipe's placement relative to Ritsuko's face, initiated an automated program: namely, a small stem extending from the side of the monocle, emitting a soft flame over the pipe bowl. With a few puffs, the tobacco was lit. After lightly packing it in further with a calloused index finger, the monocle stem emitted another soft flame, lighting it up more. After the monocle reverted to its normal configuration, Ritsuko leaned back in her chair, sighing with content. "Well, I needed a break anyway."

Misato looked at the violet shard, recognizing it as a remnant of the Third Angel's lances. "Examining the Angel's remains?"

"From what little we were able to cull, yes. It does my mind WONDERS to be observing something that violates multiple facets of what we colloquially call 'the laws of physics'." The sarcasm was as thick as the tobacco smoke.

The Lieutenant Colonel giggled. "So…just another day at work?"

"Pretty much." The currently-laconic doctor looked at her friend and the new Pilot, recalling why they were here. "Here for the kid's Plug Suit, huh? Follow me."

As the duo followed Ritsuko further into the lab, Shinji asked, "Um, Dr. Akagi…what is a Plug Suit, exactly?"

"A skintight bodysuit that's fitted personally for each Pilot. Its purpose is to minimize interference while inside the Entry Plug. Since LCL is the medium through which the Pilot synchronizes with the Evangelion, we want to reduce the amount of surface area that the LCL has to cover." The doctor paused in front of a large cylinder, with pipes leading to a number of small vats embedded into the wall. "Insert explanation about fluid dynamics, and that pretty much covers it."

"Don't forget the equipment that monitors their vitals and supplies emergency medical aid!" chimed Misato.

"That too."

Shinji nodded. "Well, I'm ready whenever you are, Dr. Akagi."

"Very well then." Ritsuko took another puff of her pipe before initiating the system. The double doors opened up, revealing a shadowy chamber.

Shinji stared, eyes straining. "Uh…"

Lights flickered, revealing metallic hands, hoses, and what appeared to be large egg beaters.

Shinji gulped.

Ritsuko pressed a red button. "Activating."

As one, the hands whirred to life, grabbing Shinji and dragging him into the chamber.

"AH! HEY!" The doors shut behind him, leaving Misato and Ritsuko outside. Shinji's screams could still be heard, albeit muffled. "Dr. Akagi, what's going on-ah! My clothes! They're taking off my clothes!" Outside, Shinji's clothes dropped out of a chute, neatly folded. "M-M-M-Misato-san, make it stop!"

As she gathered Shinji's clothes, Misato stared pointedly at Ritsuko. "Is this normal?"

"Normal procedure." Ritsuko took a deep whiff of the tobacco. "The problem is…" She keyed in another sequence into the machine's console before bellowing, "THE BOY'S SIMPLY BEING A PANSY!" Two of the vats rumbled, emptying gallons of what appeared to be a blue and black substance of some kind. "You've beaten an Angel! Surely this isn't too much for you."

"AAAH! THIS STUFF'S COLD!"

"Unless you think it's tougher than the Angel."

"GACK! Now it's hot! W-W-Wait, don't touch that, don't-!"

"If that's the case…THEN BEWARE, FOR I HAVE BECOME A BADASS! AAAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

Shinji's girlish shriek nearly echoed out through the entirety of the lab.

One minute later, the doors opened. Out of it stepped a frazzled looking Shinji, body covered from the neck down in a form-fitting bodysuit. With the exception of the sides, the arms on down to the wrist, the torso, and the soles of the feet, the entire bodysuit was blue in color; the aforementioned portions were pure black. However, the only thing worth looking at right now was the deranged expression on Shinji's face.

Ritsuko scoffed. "Rei Ayanami didn't even scream when she got hers made. You've no room to complain."

Shinji twitched.

Misato glanced at her friend. "You do know you're talking about Rei, right?"

"My point still stands!"

Shinji twitched again. Just count to ten. Don't do anything rash. Father won't appreciate it if you maim one of his scientists. Oh, who was he kidding? There were probably at least a dozen hidden death machines somewhere in the lab dedicated to the doctor's personal safety. Ritsuko struck him as the kind of person to have such things. If you do anything, Randall will probably do something horrible. The thought of the orange tabby in the giant mecha
was enough to calm him. Just a little. "…was there…any other way of doing that?"

Ritsuko shrugged. "Yeah. This one was the most efficient though."

Shinji stared.

"What? It is. The material used to form the Plug Suit hardens relatively quickly when heated, so the machine is automated in such a way that incorporates your full range of motion into the suit. It's not like I programmed the machine to do that for the heck of it."

"…would you blame me if I thought otherwise?"

"Not at all. BECAUSE I DID! FUFUFUFUFUFU!" As Ritsuko walked away, alternating between smoking and chortling, Shinji resisted the urge to hit her.

"Down Shinji, be nice," muttered Misato, noticing Shinji's twitching hands. "Ritsuko's just being…Ritsuko."

"That's…really not an excuse. I mean, I know my father has a tendency to attract…odd people, but this is a little much! I mean…" The Third Child looked back at the…'Plug Suit Maker', shivering at the mere sight of it. "There's eccentric, and then there's mentally insane."

Misato chuckled nervously, scratching at the back of her head. "Well…Ritsky wasn't always like this. She's gotten more and more…" Unhinged? Deranged? Crazy? "…excitable as time's gone by."

"…again, I ask, are you sure she's not bipolar?"

The head of Project E huffed angrily as she glanced back at Shinji. "I believe I already told you that I'm not."

"B-B-But what's with all of the…craziness? You shift between mild-mannered and full-blown nuts at the drop of a hat!"

"And that's not a symptom of being bipolar." The doctor shook her head, disappointed at the boy's lack of knowledge. "Despite what appears to be a popular conception, bipolar disorder isn't about mood swings. In general, you have situations where someone suffering from bipolar disorder endures manic episodes, usually alongside periods of abnormal depression." Ritsuko sighed, a cloud of smoke fluttering through the air. "Although symptoms vary from person to person, my little 'mood swings', as you might term them, aren't actually manic episodes as pertains to bipolar disorder. Trust me; I've gotten the professional opinion of some of Japan's best psychiatrists."

"…then…what the heck is it?"

Ritsuko chuckled. "They classified me…" The doctor suddenly pumped her fist. "AS UNCLASSIFIABLE! HOHOHAAAHAHAHAHAAAA!"

Shinji blinked.

"Anyhow, you're all done if you want to leave. You're going to have to leave the Plug Suit here so we can add the finishing touches. It hasn't been vacuum-sealed yet, so you should be able to pry it off with little difficulty. Go and use the bathroom if you need privacy; just make a left by the vending machines." Ritsuko turned away, head wreathed by gray clouds. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have to get back to studying the remains of an utter abomination. FOR SCIENCE!"

The Third Child looked pointedly at Misato.

The Lieutenant Colonel shrugged. "If it helps, Ritsky's usually working in the Geofront…and you won't have to meet her that often."

"I'll take what I can get," grumbled Shinji as he took his clothes from Misato and headed off to the bathroom. Geez…Annette was an angel compared to this bunch…er…or maybe it's this bunch that's an Angel compared to her? Gah, never mind…

xxxx

As the sun set over Tokyo-3, Shinji Ikari briefly reflected over the day. I woke up in my new…'home', I guess…I talked with my father...and then came Dr. Akagi. Shinji scowled.

"Getting angry?"

Shinji turned towards Misato, who was slowly driving her motorcycle along a road bordering the mountains. "Just hoping I never have to run into Dr. Akagi again. Ever."

The purple-haired woman giggled. "You'll get used to her."

"I'm used to my father. SHE is something entirely different." The boy grumbled as he leaned back into the sidecar, arms filled with a number of groceries. The tour of NERV-1 that Misato had taken him on after meeting Dr. Akagi had been nothing short of pleasant. The multi-layered Operations Deck, the well-stocked break rooms, the maintenance chambers crewed by Section 3, the Medical Wing staffed by Section 4, and the barracks for Section 2 (well, the parts of it that were suitable for children; the Interrogation blocks were probably a good place to leave out) had comprised the entirety of the tour. After that, they had made a quick stop at the convenience store for food, juice, beer, and toiletries before making the drive back to Misato's apartment. "So, how long until we get to your place?"

"I'm taking the long way. I wanna show you something cool."

The Third Child blinked. "…you're not going to drive up a building again, are you?"

Misato playfully scowled. "Oh come on, are you ever gonna let me live that down? I saved your life, you know!"

"And I defeated the Third Angel, so I think that counts as saving your life…and everyone else's."

"Ah, but if I hadn't saved you, then you wouldn't have been able to save everyone else, so by proxy, I saved everyone else!"

"…uh, well…"

"Ha! I win!"

Shinji grumbled. "You're just like my cousin." Except crazier.

"Aaaaand we're here!"

The bike slowed to a stop on the shoulder of the road; Shinji pulled himself out of the sidecar and walked over to the guardrail. The sun was now a wavering disc of orange and yellow, slowly inching towards the horizon. The city was eerily silent now that the maintenance crews had turned in; with nothing but the unmanned defensive platforms standing, Tokyo-3 was once again evoking the image of an empty tomb.

However, Shinji knew what was about to happen. I remember this ridge. "My father took me here once…he wanted to show me what he was creating…"

Misato was looking at her watch, seemingly unmindful of Shinji's nostalgia. "Three, two, one…now."

The image of the tomb was broke by wailing sirens. All over Tokyo-3, gates embedded into the ground opened up.

Within the armored layers of the Geofront's shell, a complex system of hydraulic machinery activated. Groups of gigantic pistons pushed against each other, propelling fluid in a reaction that caused a system of rails to rise from the sheer pressure.

All of this was unseen.

What Shinji and Misato could see were buildings and skyscrapers rising into the air. Upon reaching their apex, heavy slabs of metal would lock into place, preventing the rails from moving and easing the pressure off of the hydraulic system. This feat of engineering brought chills to the Lieutenant Colonel, who often appreciated how technology could triumph over nature. For Shinji, the sight was both nostalgic and comforting.

Nostalgic because he could remember his reaction when his father had shown him this sight: awe, and unabashed pride in what the man had brought forth.

Comforting because it reminded him of his purpose. In spite of how vexing various members of NERV were bound to be, this city would always hearken to the reality of his situation: that he was one of the few people that this city could depend on to destroy the Angels. Such a responsibility was daunting, but it was one he was ready for.

Hopefully.

"Tokyo-3…" Shinji turned towards Misato, a small smile on her face as she spoke. "A fortress city, built for defeating the Angels." The sirens went silent, right as the sun slipped beneath the mountains. "No matter what happens, never forget that this is the city that you saved."

"…I know, Misato-san." No matter how weird things could become (coughRitsukocough), or how dangerous his new life could be…he would persevere. For Tokyo-3, the city he had been born in. For his father, who had turned this city into mankind's last defense against the Angels. For everyone who lived here.

"HOORAY. MY PLAYGROUND IS BACK."

"GAAH!" Shinji nearly toppled over the railing from sheer shock; standing right behind them was none other than Randall, in all his eight-foot glory. "H-H-How did you sneak up on us!"

The tabby's head tilted, as if confused. Then he typed in a message. "I AM A CAT."

"…that's not an answer."

"I AM A CAT."

"Just let it rest Shinji-kun," said Misato as she scratched Randall's head. "You leave my place in working order?"

"YES. THE FEATHERED ONE WOULD BE ANGRY IF I DID NOT."

Feathered one? Does he mean Pen-Pen? Shinji paled; even the cat in the mecha was wary of the penguin? Just…what in the world?

"Well, you're probably gonna go play, so you behave now!" Misato scratched behind Randall's ears, giggling as the cat petted her back with his giant hand.

Randall turned towards Shinji, who was stock still.

…what is he doing?

The boy impulsively yelped as Randall's right hand landed on his head…and lightly scratched him. "Uh…wha…?"

The hand retracted, typing a single word into the left forearm. "SCRATCH."

"…huh?"

"He wants you to scratch his head."

"…uh…okay…" It's just a cat. They like being scratched. Even ones who pilot robots. "…nice Randall…good boy Randall…" The boy's hand gingerly settled behind the orange tabby's ear, slowly scratching.

Randall's ensuing purr eased Shinji's fear.

"THANK YOU. GOOD DAY, FAST LADY AND FRESH MEAT."

Aaaaand we're back to fear. Did Randall really have to call him 'fresh meat'?

Fortunately, any further consideration of that idea ended as Randall leapt over the guardrail, sliding down the cliff side into the forests below. Shinji stared at the spot where Randall had been before turning towards Misato, who now had a teasing grin on her face. "…pardon me for asking, but 'fast lady'?"

"He likes to race against me sometimes."

"…I see." In one long, heavy, relieved yet exasperated sigh, Shinji summed up his entire day. "Can we go home now?"

Misato couldn't help but smile happily at the fact that Shinji was already referring to her place as 'home'. "Sure thing Shinji."

xxxx

To be continued…

Next time…

Episode 4: School Days (Meet the Team)

xxxx

(Next time: school.)

 

[Ultra Sonic 007]

This is probably one of the more divisive chapters from what I recall, judging by the drop-off in reader count after this episode. Alas, the prospect of Misato having an adventure in Australia was too much for me to resist, and these guys served as the perfect implement for it.

Also, here's the layout of Misato's apartment:



xxxx

/September 22, 2015/

/Misato's Apartment, Tokyo-3, Japan/

Shinji Ikari fastened his shoelaces and stood up, quietly gauging his appearance. A simple button-up collared shirt, short-sleeved, complete with a brown belt fastening black slacks. One could barely see the dark blue undershirt, not that it made for much of an effect. Still, it was a simple look, with its own economical aesthetic that he could appreciate. Simple. Simple is nice. Simple is different. Given how crazy his life was, and how much crazier it was about to get, he'd take simplicity anywhere he could.

Misato's apartment was another example. It was fairly standard: one master bedroom – Misato's, which sat across the hall from his – and two guest rooms accompanied a single combination wash room/bathroom; the actual apartment itself was b-shaped, with the rooms situated along the vertical stem, while the living room and walk-through kitchen were situated along the main body. The creamy yellow wallpaper, the violet tile floors, and the beige carpets evoked an altogether pleasant feeling, despite how jarring the image of the huge, heavy-duty refrigerators was.

Speaking of jarring, Pen-Pen was sitting on one of the two green sofas, eating from a bowl of leftover tuna rolls whilst watching the morning news.

…this is going to take some getting used to.

Shinji glanced at the sliding door to Misato's room, upon which was posted the sign 'Misato's Throne Room: No Commoners Allowed!'. Sufficiently cowed by a warning from 'fast lady', as Randall had put it, Shinji settled for knocking on the door. "Misato-san…I'm off to school now."

A noise echoed from the bedroom; it could have been a yawn, had it not also sounded like the growling of a pack of bears.

Shinji nervously chuckled. "Um…good bye…"

"Mmrr…have fun Shinji-kun…mya…"

Seconds passed, and the moaning reduced to a steady snooze.

Maybe she'd be more cheerful if she didn't drink so much.

In the dictionary, Misato Katsuragi's picture would be next to the word 'dichotomy'. She was a carefree daredevil on her motorcycle, a cool and flexible Operations Director, and, sometimes, a calm and understanding individual. Last night had showed another facet of the Klein bottle that was her personality (a description that Misato proudly claimed was Ritsuko's idea, as she had told him at dinner; the ensuing explanation of how it was a non-orientable surface with no 'inside' or 'outside' had only served to remind him that Misato, despite her usually jubilant demeanor, had quite the brain to go with her looks): that being her attention to detail whilst cooking.

Shinji had to admit, her precision as a chef was nothing short of impressive. Given that he had spent the last several years with his Aunt Alicia, that was saying something. The sushi tray she had lovingly crafted (and that was no exaggeration; the smile she bore when taking a pile of ingredients and transforming them into a four-star entrée was nothing short of euphoric) had been exquisite, and downright delicious…at least, his serving had been so.

He couldn't speak for Misato, who had proceeded to pour a whole cup of instant curry onto her sushi and devour it with gusto, accompanied by two cans of Yebisu beer.

His aunt would have indicted Misato with culinary homicide.

Everything here is so weird. Despite the cleanliness of Misato's apartment, her room – from what little he had managed to glimpse last night – was the pigsty of pigsties. What kind of life does she lead? She's definitely an alcoholic, she coats her delicious cooking with junk food, and…and the penguin! Seriously, what's up with the penguin?

The boy sighed as he grabbed some of the leftover yellowtail rolls for breakfast; he wanted to get a good tour of the school, so he wanted to get there early. "Well…Pen-Pen." Shinji forced a smile onto his face, hoping it would eventually become natural. "I'm off."

"Wark." Pen-Pen didn't bother turning, still watching the morning news. Shinji took a single glance…and paused. The image of Unit-01 fighting the Third Angel served as the headline image for the female anchor.

"-and after the city returned to its standard configuration, NERV released a single video for Internet release. According to the UN, this is not the official report submitted to the Security Council, but is rather something released for the public in general. Cue the tape."

The screen darkened. When it came back, Shinji nearly collapsed from shock. "Uh…buh…wha?"

His father was in front of a running shower, wearing only a gray towel around his waist…and, of course, his orange shades. Most people would have been impressed by the lean yet muscular physique, but Shinji was too busy wondering what in the world is father was doing!

And then, heaven help him, his father spoke.

"Hello ladies. Look at your man. Now look at me. Now back at your man, now back to me. Sadly, he isn't me. But if your man quit his job to sign up with NERV, then he too could be a part of the organization that just saved the world. Look down." Gendo looked down, right as the scenery fell away to reveal the Tokyo-3 skyline. Simultaneously, his cloak slammed into him from off-screen; when it flared open, it was tied around his neck, and he was clad in his normal uniform (which included pants, thank goodness). "Back up. Where are you?" The wind blew, and the towel went flying away. "You're on top of one of Tokyo-3's defense platforms, with the man YOUR man could be working for. Look at your hand." He reached into his cloak. "Back at me." He withdrew his hand, holding a Desert Eagle pistol. "I have it. It's a human-scale variant of the handgun that was used to kill the Angel." He tossed the handgun up. "Look again." A handheld PDA of sorts landed in his hand. "The handgun is now a VIDEO MONTAGE."

Gendo pressed the PDA's screen against the camera lens. Select footage from Unit-01's battle with the Third Angel played; in particular, the clips used were of Unit-01's initial uppercut that sent the Angel flying, the Evangelion's thrust kick that freed it from Sachiel's clutches, the firing of the Mark II handgun against the core, and the final punch that finally cracked the Angel's core. Accompanying this montage was a screaming death metal tune; as the guitars growled and the drums pounded, red text blinked on and off, saying 'DISCLAIMER: YEAAAAAAAAAH!'.

Just as suddenly as it had begun, the PDA was pulled away, revealing Gendo Ikari once more. His cloak was fluttering in the wind, and the sound of an engine could be heard. "Join NERV today, and not only would you be working for the organization that just saved the world, but I would be your boss. And really, isn't that what everyone wants?" The camera panned back, revealing that Gendo was in fact standing on top of Misato's motorcycle. In motion. Despite the speed, he was utterly implacable, not even budging or tilting. The windswept purple hair indicated that Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi was, in fact, the driver. "I'm standing on top of a motorcycle being driven by a hot woman." The camera stopped moving, still following the motorcycle as it sped off into the distance. The logo of NERV – a bisected leaf of red with the word NERV underneath, complete with a small caption that read 'SAVING THE WORLD FROM ALL WHO THREATEN IT' – appeared, accompanied by a whistling jingle.

The screen darkened, and the black-haired news anchor came back on. "The video already has over one million views. Most people would be surprised that such an eccentric individual would be in charge of a paramilitary organization chartered by the UN to protect the world…but for us here in Tokyo-3, it's business as usual for Professor Gendo Ikari. This is Trisha Takanawa, we'll be back after the break." The news cut to a commercial.

Shinji was still staring.

He glanced over at Pen-Pen, who made a motion that could only be described as a shrug.

Sighing, Shinji trudged out of the apartment, knowing full well that normalcy had just said goodbye.

xxxx

Episode 4: School Days (Meet the Team)

xxxx

/Rooftop, Tokyo-3 Municipal Junior High School/

"Lieutenant Aoba; I've got my eye on Junior. He's nearing the school now."

"Roger that Lowrie. Blow the whistle if anything…untoward happens, get my drift?"

"Sure thing boss. Mind giving the Lieutenant Colonel my regards whenever she starts her shift?"

"You have to ask?"

A chuckle emanated from the man's mouth, his face shrouded with stubble. "I guess not. Lowrie out."

Tokyo-3 Municipal Junior High School sat atop a blocky hillside near the mountains surrounding the city; the school itself was three stories, a mass of gray concrete and reflective windows. Directly adjacent to the main building was a domed auditorium, which housed the school gymnasium and other rooms used for extracurricular activities. Concrete stairs led to the field at the bottom of hill, where the majority of the outdoor sports were conducted. All in all, it was a fairly standard educational facility.

Save for the fact that the entirety of its faculty was staffed by Section 2.

Right now, the school's teacher in earth science, astronomy, and archery was looking through a pair of binoculars, watching the children stream in from Tokyo-3 proper. Wearing brown leather boots, dark gray pants, and a red shirt, the 6'0" man certainly stood out compared to the monotony of the school uniforms. His left hand – clad in a fingerless glove – adjusted the lens, focusing in on the approaching form of Shinji Ikari. "Huh…lad's scrawnier than I thought he'd be…" Guess he don't take too much after his old man…not sure if that's a good thing.

The boy paused, blinking. All of a sudden, he started squinting.

"Huh…wonder what's got Junior spooked…" The man's accent wasn't that thick, but it was definitely either English or Australian.

The boy tilted his head…and that's when Lowrie noticed that the boy was staring in his direction.

"…I think he sees me."

The boy tentatively waved, as if unsure what else to do, before continuing on.

"Yes, yes he does," muttered the man, chuckling as he lowered the binoculars. He readjusted his slouch hat – light brown, with a black band – and put on his reflective sunglasses, the black frames pressing against his brown sideburns. "Guess the lad'll be more interesting than I thought." Glancing down at his watch, the Section 2 agent noted the time. "Well, time for class."

xxxx

…who in the world was watching me?

Shinji Ikari figured he'd find out sooner or later. It was probably some person hired by his dad to keep an eye on him. Hopefully. Just don't think about it, and you'll be fine.

The hallways were fairly well-kept; steel lockers painted turquoise, with green walls and reflective, light-gray marble rounding out the somewhat bland aesthetic. The large windows and various posters – mostly dealing with announcements, personal fliers, and educational material – helped in keeping the environment from seeming completely drab.

However, it was the relative emptiness of the school that did it for him. A number of the classrooms were utterly empty; a number of the doors even had papers taped onto them, redirecting students to other homerooms. What's with this place…?

It only took a few minutes before he found Class 2-A. "Year 2, Group A…" Well, here goes nothing.

Into the breach.

There were about thirty desks; each one prefabricated and complete with a built-in computer system. The chalkboard was clean at the moment, and the teacher's desk was quite spartan in nature; the only distinctive features were a built-in laptop and an old-fashioned globe, with various countries marked in red. There were several students milling around, biding their time before class began. Several guys were chatting about various topics of interest, while
cliques of girls dotted various portions of the classroom.

Speaking of the girls, their uniforms consisted of a teal skirt that dipped right above the knees, with thick, similarly-colored suspenders wrapping over a white blouse. A red ribbon, wrapped in the fashion of a bowtie, hung below the collar, and black leather shoes stood out against long white socks. All in all, it served to draw a great deal of focus to their legs.

Not that Shinji didn't appreciate the view, but he also couldn't help but think of Annette's reaction. She'd probably get all huffy about the uniform design while slyly showing off. His cousin's exotic features, being a mixture of Caucasian and Japanese, had garnered quite a following at his old school. Maybe things might be a little more normal here.

Yeah. Sure.

That's when he noticed Rei Ayanami sitting near the front of the class, silent and dutifully awaiting the beginning of the class. Before he could approach her, he was interrupted by a freckle-faced girl, whose brown pigtails and chocolate-colored eyes gave off one impression: cute. Well, if it weren't for the stoic way her lips were contorted. "You're new….you wouldn't happen to be…" Her voice lowered, almost to a whisper. "Ikari, right?"

"Um…" The conspiratorial way she was looking around was unnerving. "…yes?"

"…I'm Hikari Horaki, the Class Representative. I like to keep things orderly and organized. I am most definitely aware of what the Commander of NERV is like. And if you're anything like him, I will warn you only once: step lightly. I won't tolerate ANY shenanigans." A distinct hardness crept into her tone, promising pain and retribution unlike any seen in a thousand generations. "Understood?"

Good GODS, she's terrifying. "Um…yes ma'am. No trouble from me."

The Class Representative lightly smiled, allowing her iron-fisted aura to recede. "Good. I'll arrange for someone to give you a tour of the school when classes let out." As Hikari walked away, Shinji dazedly sat in an empty seat beside his fellow Pilot, wondering what in the world that had been about.

"The Class Representative has always been a stickler for rules and regulations."

Shinji turned towards Rei, who had offered an answer to a question he hadn't even asked. Not that he didn't appreciate it. "She's…good at it."

"Indeed. I taught her well."

A distinct chill crept down Shinji's spine.

"However, like the others, she is sometimes unsettled by my attempts at reinforcing her authority." The Sergeant spoke fluently and calmly, unperturbed by the fact that her left side was still covered in bandages. "Given that she has been charged with maintaining order and civility in Class 2-A, it is only logical that I ensure that her authority is respected."

"…seems like you're pretty big on rules and regulations yourself."

"In any hierarchical collective command structure, it is imperative that rules are followed and those with authority are obeyed."

Shinji couldn't help but think of Rei's actions two days ago, right before he had gone out to face the Angel. "You know, you didn't have much of a problem questioning my father's decision to have me pilot."

Rei's icy stare reminded Shinji that he wasn't dealing with Annette or Misato anymore. "Um…not that I wouldn't be asking questions in YOUR place-"

"Technically, it is not insubordination to question one's orders if you find them to be…unsound. I ultimately obeyed Professor Ikari's orders." Her gaze softened; not to imply that it lost its intimidating quality. Instead of an icy stare, it was now calculating.


She's plotting something. Shinji resisted the urge to move to a different desk.

"I will admit that your performance was…adequate. However, there is room for improvement. I will see to it that whatever potential you have is maximized."

Shinji blinked, wondering if he just been insulted and complimented at the same time. "Uh…thanks…"

The bell suddenly rung, signifying that it was time for class to begin. Most of the students of Class 2-A were now in their seats, ready to begin the day.

"Ladies. Gentlemen."

Shinji turned towards the door, and he knew that he was looking at the teacher. He was fairly tall; easily six inches taller than Misato, just short of six feet. He was a sharp dresser as well; clad in a redwood business suit with a burgundy tie and a white shirt underneath the jacket. The black Oxford shoes glistened with polish, and their color matched the slim gloves on his hands. The man's face, freshly shaven, was lean, possessing defined cheekbones and a sharp nose. Short black hair slicked back over his head, and narrow blue eyes gazed over the entire classroom.

That's when those eyes settled on him.

The Third Child couldn't help but gulp; the teacher was staring at him so intently. Whereas Rei's stare was inherently disconcerting, it was as if the man discovered everything about him with just a glance.

"STAND! BOW! SIT!"

Shinji was snapped out of his reverie by the impulsive motion. Without realizing it, he had performed those actions subconsciously, acceding to Hikari's orders without hesitation. Wait, what just happened?

The teacher spoke again, in a cultured voice that had some sort of accent that Shinji couldn't quite identify; perhaps French? "Well, though we've had to consolidate classes for the time being, it seems we have a legitimately new student. I am Henshin Obimura, teacher of Economics and Literature at this facility. Introduce yourself."

"Um, yes sir." Shinji quietly stood up, feeling the stares of the entire class on his back.

Needless to say, after Ayanami's 'announcement' the previous day, they were highly curious as to who the son of Ikari would be.

A majority of them hoped he would have been somewhat more outlandish. This kid looked…disappointingly ordinary.

However, the kanji didn't lie: the kid was none other than Shinji Ikari.

"My name is Shinji Ikari." The boy bowed once. "I'm glad to be here; please take care of me." It was a polite greeting, one that appealed to the seniority of students who had been here longer. This should at least ease their fears.

Everyone was staring, silent…and quite frankly, unsure what to make of the newcomer.

…maybe.

That's when one kid bravely stood up, quietly advancing without pause. He was freckle-faced boy with large glasses and tussled, messy brown hair. Aside from the red undershirt and the somewhat lanky frame, he looked exactly like the other students.

Save for the fact that he seemed to have an exact copy of his father's orange glasses.

…wait, what?

Shinji stared as the kid held them up, preparing to put them over his face. He would've objected further, had he not noticed his father's autograph over the left lens.

Wait, WHAT?

His rather stern appearance regarding this discovery, coupled with the shades that had just been placed over his eyes, resulted in Shinji sporting the expression colloquially known as the 'Gendo Face'.

The connection was finally made in the minds of everyone else: this was the son of Gendo Ikari.

The son of Gendo Ikari. The son of Gendo Ikari.

Most of the class nervously backed away into their seats. A few girls began to swoon.

The kid who had brought up the shades took them back, his face sporting the biggest grin in the world.

…what the…

"Kensuke Aida." Horaki's voice rang out like a tolling funeral bell. "SIT."

Having accomplished whatever nebulous goal he had had in mind, the kid – Kensuke, apparently – promptly sat back down.

Shinji, understandably, was dazed. "…what."

"If you'll have a seat, Mr. Ikari." Shinji turned towards the teacher, who now had a lit cigarette hanging between his fingers. "Then we can begin our lessons."

"Er, yes sir!" Shinji quickly sat back down, wondering what in the world had just happened.

All the while, unbeknownst to Shinji, a boy sitting further to the back – clad in a dark tracksuit with white highlights – was staring intently at his back.

Mr. Obimura looked one last time at Shinji – idly wondering what hidden depths the son of NERV's Commander possessed – before turning to the chalkboard. "Now class, we have finished our survey of macroeconomics, and we will now transition to a survey of microeconomics…"

xxxx

Needless to say, Shinji's first day at school was considerably…odd.

The faculty became progressively weirder.

xxxx

"And so the Tokugawa Shogunate, despite the pressures and troubles associated with their policy of exclusion, managed to maintain their isolation for more than two centuries. With certain exceptions, such as Dejima."

Well, this is nice. Shinji quietly typed down notes as the history teacher continued on. The teacher seemed relatively normal, if possessing a boisterous tone. At 5'9", the teacher – who, to Shinji's confusion, had the name of John Doe – looked imposing, what with his thick brow, stubbly face, blocky features, piercing blue eyes, and blond hair fashioned into a crew cut. The military boots didn't mesh well with the khakis and the red shirt, which did little to hide his muscular physique. In spite of that, the man was a lively teacher, constantly moving about and making gestures as he emphasized his points.

"This period of isolation would come to an end. The growing reach of Western countries into the Asian mainland eventually reached Japan, seeking entry into untapped markets. Though initially denied, Matthew Perry, a Commodore of the United States Navy, employed the use of military power to display what would happen if the Shogunate did not enter negotiations."

Yes, this man was much more amiable compared to his homeroom teacher.

"The four ships under Perry's command would become known as the Black Ships, not only due to the fact that the older vessels were colored black, but because of the turmoil their entry to Japan instigated. They were the Mississippi, the Plymouth, the Saratoga, and the Arizona!"

Suddenly, above the chalkboard, a large monitor lit up, displaying the word "IGNORE" in red. Shinji stared, surprised and confused by the message. Huh?

"However, the Arizona was sunk by a kamikaze samurai, resulting in a declaration of war by the United States against Japan! In retaliation for the attack, Commodore Perry joined up with Lieutenant Colonel Jimmy Doolittle of the United States Air Force to stage a bombing run against Edo!"

Wait, Air Force? War? Wasn't this supposed to be the nineteenth century?

"Mr. Doe will sometimes go off on a tangent."

Shinji turned towards Rei, who was studiously working on a different assignment. As it turned out, so was the rest of the class. "Huh?"

"Similar events, people, or places will often mesh together for Mr. Doe, even if they occur in entirely different times or contexts. If he begins to diverge, the MAGI monitoring this classroom will notify the students, so that they know to ignore him until he returns to the original lesson plan."

"…this happens often, I take it?"

"Every day, yes."

Shinji groaned as he rested his head on his desk. Urgh…

"MAGGOTS! PAY ATTENTION!"

Shinji nearly yelped as he jolted in his seat.

"Now, where was I…ah yes, July 14, 1853, when Commodore Perry arrived with the Mississippi, the Plymouth, the Saratoga, and the Susquehanna!"

The monitor winked off, and everyone else started paying attention.

The Third Child sighed.

xxxx

The teacher of Languages was…BIG.

In terms of height, Aleksander Kasparov wasn't that much taller than Mr. Obimura or Mr. Doe; only about 6'2". This was only because of his short – almost comically short – legs. However, once you got above the waist, you saw a man who could lift an SUV. With thick arms, giant hands, and a barrel-shaped torso, Mr. Kasparov looked capable of snapping a desk with his pinky. His head was completely bald; with a protruding chin, flat facial features,
and thick stubble, he looked someone who could wrestle Uncle Tomoe to a standstill.

His thick Russian accent only heightened his appearance as a strongman.

So Shinji was genuinely surprised at how fluent he was in Japanese and English.

"And so children, recall English sentence structure as follows: the particular format for the English language is 'Subject-Verb-Object'. As you know, Japanese is classified as 'Subject-Object-Verb'. I will write up some example sentences to demonstrate key differences in the languages."

As Mr. Kasparov looked for his personal chalk – which was roughly an inch in diameter to accommodate his large fingers – Shinji looked quizzically towards Rei.

Rei calmly typed a private message to his desk computer.

/Rei-Ayanami: You have a question?
/Shinji-Ikari: He's…an interesting choice for a Language teacher.
/Rei-Ayanami: His physical appearance belies his eloquence.
/Shinji-Ikari: I guess so.

"Oh my gosh, who touched Tanya?"

Shinji looked up at Mr. Kasparov, who was looking with shock at his white chalk. Then his ocean-blue eyes gazed upon the students. "All right…WHO TOUCHED MY CHALK?"

No one said a word.

The Russian sniffed. "Придурковатые дети. Держу пари, что это был командирский сынок."

As he went on writing, Shinji typed one more message to Rei.

/Shinji-Ikari: Is he paranoid about his things?
/Rei-Ayanami: No. He is able to tell if someone has messed with his personal items.
/Shinji-Ikari: …oh. How come no one spoke up?
/Rei-Ayanami: There is no need. He will review the video logs and find out later.
/Shinji-Ikari: …I see.

The Third Child sighed – an increasingly common reaction – as he began jotting down Mr. Kasparov's notes. Can the teachers get any stranger?

xxxx

"All right class, we hae here a ball that's shot from a grenede launcher at grun level."

…apparently they can.

A black, one-eyed Scotsman.

"The angle is at sixty dehgrees up from the grun, with initial vehlocity of forty-five miles peh hour! Assumin' no air resistance, the force a'gravity, and a frictionless surface, ye hae ta answer the following questions: what's the maximum height of the ball while airborne; when will it land, and how far away."

The uniform – red shirt and khakis with brown boots – did not draw nearly as much attention as the small black afro, the black eyepatch over the left eye, and his toothy grin. The maniacal, if somewhat affable, look in his one brown eye did not help.

Tavish DeGroot, teacher of Physics and assistant teacher of Chemistry, looked out over his class, having just drawn out the appropriate diagram for the problem. "Now lads and lassies: ye got five minutes."

Everyone began writing down as much as they could.

Shinji was still trying to deal with the fact that his Physics teacher was a black, one-eyed Scotsman…who, judging by the fact he had just pulled out a big brown bottle of cider, was an alcoholic.

…at least P.E.'s next.

xxxx

/Gymnasium, Tokyo-3 Municipal Junior High School/

"Okay you SISSIES! Prepare for warm-ups, on the double!"

Shinji didn't quite care that Mr. Doe was one of the instructors for Physical Education (in retrospect, he seemed far more suited for this position than History teacher). He just saw it as an opportunity to work up a sweat. Everything will be much easier if I'm too tired to care.

The uniforms were fairly simple: white shirts and blue gym shorts, with the girls wearing red bloomers instead. Much to Shinji's surprise, all of the grades of the school were present, from seventh grade on up to ninth grade. The boys were on one side of the gym, with a wide expanse of gray marble floors separating the boys from the girls. This was how Shinji was able to see Rei Ayanami, who had somehow gotten into her gym uniform despite the excessive bandages. How can she do anything with only her right hand and right leg?

"First up, PUSHUPS! Give me THIRTY!"

As everyone ensued with their pushups, Shinji couldn't help but note that Rei was doing hers just fine with one arm. I guess that makes sense; one-handed pushups wouldn't be that hard. The rest of the calisthenics went similarly, with Rei altering her routine due to her constrained limbs. After ten minutes, Mr. Doe concluded their aerobics.

Shinji didn't know whether to be impressed or frightened by how Rei showed no signs of exertion. She wasn't even sweating.

"Okay ladies, you get to the swimming pool and do whatever it is little girls do! That is an order!" As the girls began to head to their locker room, he looked at the boys."And you maggots, you're with ol' Tommy outside! GET TO IT!"

A chorus of groans echoed through the gymnasium, prompting Shinji to wonder who 'Tommy' was, and why most of the boys were worried.

"Yeah yeah, make a guy feel welcome."

The loud, boisterous voice, with an accent rather unfamiliar to Shinji, was unmistakably gaijin.

He looked at the newcomer, a man standing at 5'7"; despite the lean musculature visible through the tight red shirt and the gray pants, his face was downright boyish. The dark blue cap – which bore a stylized letter B that overlaid a pair of red socks – covered messy brown hair, and his gray eyes exuded a cocksure aura that seemed stereotypically American.

The young man was also resting an aluminum baseball bat over his shoulder.

"Anywho, I'll take em' from here you old-timer."

"You show some respect for your superiors, MR. PATRICK!"

The man – apparently Tommy Patrick – rolled his eyes. "Don't you have lifeguard duty?"

The militaristic John Doe grumbled as he turned on his heels and stomped away, leaving the boys with the other Physical Education teacher. Boys who, for the most part, were looking rather frightened.

Tommy jerked his thumb towards the double doors leading outside. "To the track!"

xxxx

Shinji's lungs burned.

"Come ooon, you guys oughta be good at this by now!"

He kept his legs pumping, if only because this was what he had wanted. Just keep going…just keep going…just keep going…!

For a young child of fourteen, he was in relatively good condition. The constant explorations of Okayama-1 and hearty meals courtesy of his aunt and uncle had given him a solid core, with a surprising amount of endurance despite his somewhat scrawny frame. True, he wouldn't make first string for most sports teams; but if there was one thing he could do, it was that he kept going and going and going.

"Droppin' like flies, you're killin' me!"

That said, Tommy Patrick was fast. His relatively long legs were pumping at high speed, moving so quickly it seemed as if they barely touched the ground.

He wasn't even breathing hard, and he had been running nonstop for nearly ten minutes!

"You've all got less than a minute left! It's just ten laps, what's the big deal?"

For a track that was four hundred meters long, that translated to roughly two and a half miles in under ten minutes. Which meant nearly seven meters a second on average.

Needless to say, few of the adolescents could keep that pace up for long. Most couldn't get there at all. There was no way to do it in the time allotted.

Shinji kept on running. Keep going…keep going…keep GOING…!

"Aaaaand TIME'S UP!"

Almost every boy that was still standing came to a stop. Shinji began to tumble, aiming for the grass as he collapsed. The strangely sweet smell of the earth coupled with the feathery touch of the grass provided a soothing effect to counter Shinji's aching legs and his pounding heart.

Tommy Patrick grinned at the sight of the boys, almost all of whom were panting for dear life. "Well, looks like you've all worked up a sweat. You're free to do whatever!"

Needless to say, few worked up the energy to do anything. It would take several minutes for most of the children to get back on their feet and move on to enjoying what free time they had left in P.E.

Shinji spent the rest of P.E. lying on the field, enjoying the sweet oblivion of fatigue.

xxxx

/Cafeteria, Tokyo-3 Municipal Junior High School/

Lunch was turning out to be far more pleasant.

Shinji had quickly gotten over the fact that Mr. Kasparov was the primary server; he seemed happy enough to fulfill that role.

He still wondered who the other chef was, and why he could occasionally see gouts of flame burst from the vents connected to the kitchen.

Less thinking, more eating.

The available courses for today consisted of a rather robust sandwich (or 'sandvich', as Mr. Kasparov had insisted) laden with cold cuts, lettuce, cheddar, and tomatoes with an olive on top, with sides of steamed rice, sliced applies, and biscuits. It was certainly a far cry from traditional Japanese cuisine, but it was very tasty nonetheless.

Judging by how a majority of students had brought their own lunches, they preferred home cooking.

There were tables inside the cafeteria and outside on a large veranda; some students went further, opting to sit on the grass or underneath the trees that bordered the school grounds. Most people gathered with their circle of friends or a particular clique, content with talking as much as they were eating. From his position, he could see Rei sitting nearby Hikari and several other students of varying ages; judging by conversations he had overheard in the lunch line, it was a gathering of Rei and the Class Representatives from each class.

Although the thought of Rei hanging out with the elected arbiters of classroom order made him shudder, he was mostly pleased with how his fellow Pilot, despite her 'issues' (as his father had termed them, whatever they may be), had been able to cultivate some social relationships.

As for me…?

Shinji looked around, noticing that the table he was sitting at was completely empty.

Well, I guess it's to be expected. His father's reputation was a rather effective ward, but he didn't let that bother him. It won't be long until they realize I'm actually normal. Either that, or someone would feel motivated enough to come talk to the 'giant robot pilot'. Nevertheless, he'd eventually settle into a niche and obtain his own circle of friends and acquaintances.

In his peripheral vision, he noticed someone setting a tray down. Speaking of which. He looked up to offer a friendly greeting…and paused at the sight of a bespectacled face. "Uh…"

Kensuke Aida was grinning. "So, you're the Supreme Commander's son, eh?"

"…yes…?" He felt that had been made apparent during homeroom.

Then, gods help him, Kensuke quietly squeed. "That's so COOL."

If it hadn't been clear before, it was now. My father…has fanboys?

Sensing an opening to continue, Kensuke immediately asked, "I mean, your dad's not only the leader of NERV – NERV – but he's got like the coolest stuff! You get the feeling he's one of us, with how he acts."

"…one of us?"

"What, do I need to paint a picture? Every single TIME he does anything, it's for the sake of being awesome."

"…"

Kensuke looked oddly disappointed. "Don't tell me you and your dad don't get along."

"Well, no, we're pretty okay." Somehow, Shinji knew that the thought of him not getting along with his father would be very upsetting to Kensuke. He didn't know whether to be disturbed by that or not. "I mean, his work is important, and I understand that he's usually busy, so I don't hold that against him…"

"Buu~uut?"

"…he's just a little weird."

"You just don't know how good you've got it."

Shinji's pointed stare would've skewered the boy if it could. "I'm not even going to try and explain how troublesome he can be, since you seem a little…enamored. I mean, I love him, but sometimes he's…difficult."

Kensuke shrugged, chalking it up to the grass being greener and all that. "Well, I guess the child of every celebrity feels that way now and then. But hey, he makes things interesting!"

…my father said the exact same thing to me yesterday. Disregarding the frightening image of Kensuke getting pointers from Gendo, Shinji pressed on with another query. "So…what's with the autographed glasses?"

"Oh, these?" Kensuke pulled out the orange shades, holding up for Shinji to get a better look at them. As it turned out, his father's autograph was actually ENGRAVED into the left lens. "They came in the mail!"

"…why?"

"Well, interesting story there…ya see, couple years back, I'm just at a café with my old man, mindin' my own business…and I see him, ordering a sandwich: the Supreme Commander of NERV." The 'Gendotaku' pocketed the shades, smiling at the memory. "My dad works in NERV as a liaison between some of the Section 3 maintenance crews and the research labs at Section 1."

Shinji briefly recalled facets of yesterday's tour of NERV; his main exposure to Section 1 had been Dr. Akagi's lab.

"And boy, does he have a lot of stories! Especially about the Chief of Section 1, Dr. Ritsuko Akagi. Some of the stuff I hear is just unbelievable!"

"You don't say," droned Shinji, completely unsurprised by the idea.

"But anyhow, those two are talkin' about some minor issues, supply lines, worker complaints, that sort of thing…and as I'm eating my lunch, their conversation drifts over to the P2 System. And I start hearing stuff about 'Defender Gundams'!" A sudden scowl crossed the boy's face, as though he had suddenly seen his sworn enemy. "And so help me, I had myself a little rant right then and there!"

"…why?"

"You know what a Gundam is, right?"

"Well, yeah. They're a highly-advanced type of military vehicle. After Japan unveiled a prototype in 2001, a lot of countries tried to field their own…but they really weren't worth the cost. At least as far as I recall." That had been one of the major issues regarding the technology; despite their morale- boosting nature and unbelievable potential, there were major kinks to work out. For one, how to control them: was an artificial intelligence more efficient, or was a single pilot ideal; if so, should the pilot control it remotely? Control issues directly tied in with size; was it better to go for a smaller, more mobile version, or go all out for size and heavy firepower? Each one had its issues: for smaller sizes, there was the issue of adequate protection for the pilot and miniaturizing the technology used by the Gundams. It was easier to construct and armor a larger model, but then the Square-Cube Law came into play; too large, and the Gundam wouldn't be able to walk. These technical issues, coupled with the amount of money it took to construct a single mech, made the Gundams – as currently designed – adequate only for defensive engagements. In a Post-Impact world that required swift, surgical strikes, this was unacceptable.

Needless to say, the brief love affair lasted for only a few years, when everyone played 'follow the leader' with Japan for a change. By 2006, research and development continued, but not with the same fervor as before. For the price of a single Gundam, one could obtain conventional units in far greater numbers.

Why yes, this was a lot of information to digest. No, it wasn't odd that Shinji knew all of this; it was fairly common knowledge to those who've had any involvement with the armed forces. Given that Shinji's father was Gendo Ikari, he was fairly up to date on the current state of the world's militaries.

"In general, yes, but tell me something…" He pulled out a tiny figurine from his pockets: it was a red, white, blue, and yellow mech, holding a large gun. "What's this?"

"That's the first Gundam: the Prototype." Japan's very first Gundam had been fashioned in a manner similar to the iconic RX-78, in homage to Japan's cultural history.

"Very good." He pulled out another figurine, this one a green mech; its head, unlike the more humanoid one of the Prototype, was thick and squat, with a single red eye. "And this?"

"Uh…" Shinji wracked his brain. "I think that's the Chinese Prototype Gundam."

"WRONG!"

Shinji actually yelped at Kensuke's sudden outburst.

"This is not a Gundam. It does NOT meet the design specifications to be of the same class! It more closely resembles a Zaku than anything else! No, the general term is MOBILE SUIT, no matter WHAT ANYONE ELSE SAYS!"

Shinji couldn't help but pale at Kensuke's wrathful rant. "Easy now, easy…"

The young mecha geek visibly calmed down, nibbling on his sandwich. "Sorry. One of my pet peeves."

The very name of the Prototype had been simply 'Gundam'. The rest of the world's militaries, upon its public unveiling, would also christen their mechs as 'Gundams', albeit with different titles. In the eyes of the world's militaries, the word 'Gundam' denoted nothing more than a particular vehicle, just like the words 'tank' and 'fighter jet'.

As Kensuke had just demonstrated, this had not pleased the fanboys.

Shinji quickly tried to get Kensuke away from such a topic. "So…you were ranting at my father?"

"Oh, that. Well, not ranting AT him, just ranting about the whole Gundam thing. And you know what?" Kensuke leaned towards Shinji in a conspiratorial manner. "HE ACTUALLY AGREED."

"…about what?"

"That it was a freakin' shame about how Japan's cultural heritage has been trod upon! A Gundam is a Gundam, period! He even said he would take make sure the designs were altered by the time production of the Defender Gundams was finalized!" Kensuke leaned back, bearing a downright ecstatic smile. "Sure, my dad gave me a stern talking to when we got back home, but I had gotten my point made with my dad's BOSS! It was the coolest thing ever…and
then like, a few days later, my dad got a notice in the mail about a raise! And it included the autographed shades! We both went ballistic!" The Gendotaku took a quick bite of a biscuit, relishing his old memories. "It was the greatest week ever."

"…how come your dad got the raise?"

Kensuke preened. "Well, among other things, the notice said something about 'raising such a fine young man'."

And that sounds just like my dad. "Well, that was…interesting."

The boy stared sullenly at Shinji. "You don't sound that interested."

"No no, it's not that!" Boy, it would be just my luck to upset someone on my first day. "I was curious about how you got the shades…" And I'm still freaked out by it. "…but I guess I'm not the type to get that upset about a…well, 'non-Gundam' being called a Gundam."

"…are you sure you're the son of Gendo Ikari?"

Shinji's stare was flatter than a pancake. "You know, you're not the first person to ask me that question since I've been here."

"Oh? Then I'm not the only one who wonders!" Kensuke leaned forward, resting on his elbows. It was time for an interrogation. "You're a new student here, and Rei Ayanami's been coming around for the last couple of years…which tells me that if any of this stuff is new to you, then you haven't been in Tokyo-3 for long."

Here was the bait. It was part of how social interaction occurred; with rare exceptions, people interacted with others for the sake of obtaining something of value. For Kensuke, it was quite apparent that he wanted to interact with Shinji solely because his father was Gendo Ikari. That was just fine; Shinji was interacting back because he wanted to find a place of his own within the school. It seemed rather crude to look at the situation in such terms, but – given time – this mutual exchange could bloom into an actual friendship. At least, that's what Shinji was hoping for; everyone had hidden depths. Besides, it's not like adulation of my father is the end-all, be-all of his existence. Hopefully. "Well, I used to live here in Hakone…but for the past several years, I've lived with my aunt, uncle, and cousin in Okayama-2."

Kensuke was piqued by interest. "That so? Tell me more!"

For the rest of the lunch period, Shinji did just that: regale Kensuke regarding his time in Okayama-2, from the strictness of his Aunt Alicia, to the strength of his Uncle Tomoe, to the thrill-seeking ways of his cousin Annette.

Yes, he even told him about the landshark.

Kensuke promptly exclaimed, "Yep, you're DEFINITELY the son of Gendo Ikari!"

Shinji wondered if fate was having a joke at his expense. "The last person I told that story to said the exact same thing."

At that instant, the bell rang, signaling the official end of the lunch period. As Kensuke stood up with his tray, the bespectacled boy grinned happily. "Well, this was fun! See you in class, Ikari."

"Uh, sure!" As Kensuke walked off, Shinji smiled lightly; that had been relatively productive. He seems nice…his priorities are a little weird, but he's nice.

That's when Shinji noticed a horde of girls grab Kensuke's arm and drag him out of the cafeteria.

…okay…

It wouldn't be until later that Shinji found out that it had been a group of Gendo fangirls, wanting the inside scoop from Kensuke about what the son of Ikari was like.

He would be torn between being flattered and extremely creeped out…but that's another story.

xxxx

"Okay class, y'all have ten minutes to solve this system of linear equations. Shouldn't take you that long."

Compared to the physics teacher, the teacher of mathematics and engineering was downright normal.

Which wasn't saying much, given that he was tinkering with what looked like an automated chalkboard writer.

Dell Conagher, clad in gray overalls, a red shirt, black rubber boots, and opaque safety goggles, was a fairly cheerful fellow. Utterly bald, Mr. Conagher was by far the shortest of the teachers that Shinji had seen, standing at 5'5". However, the plethora of tools and pouches hanging from his belt cemented his image as a man who built, constructed, and…well, 'engineered'.

The yellow hardhat also helped, though Shinji couldn't help but wonder why he was wearing it in the classroom.

"And when y'all are finished, I'll introduce ya to a nifty little tool called 'matrices', and exactly how they can be applied to such systems."

Ahh…this is nice.

xxxx

"MMPH MMPH mmMMmm MMPH mmMMmmMMPH MMPH mMmMmmph."

"WE NOW CONTINUE OUR DISCUSSION OF INSULATORS."

…what.

The chemistry professor was clad in a red bodysuit that fit him rather snugly. Or her. Shinji couldn't tell; the pudgy, 5'6" figure was of indeterminate gender. The black gloves, boots, and formfitting gas mask – complete with opaque goggles – did not help. Even the name – Shinobu Heisen – was gender-neutral.

Speaking of the gas mask, it completely muffled the professor's words.

"MMPH mmph mmMMmmph MMmmmmmMMMPH."

Fortunately, the MAGI observing the classroom was helpful enough to provide a translation on the monitor overhanging the chalkboard.

"RECALL BRIEFLY EXAMPLES OF CONDUCTORS."

Shinji quickly sent a message to a person that he figured would have some information about…Heisen-sensei.

/Shinji_Ikari: Kensuke.
/Kensuke_Aida: wats up? C_C
/Shinji_Ikari: I don't know how to ask this, but…

Shinji entered the uncompleted query, trying to think of how to politely ask his question. Fortunately, Kensuke was quick to the take.

/Kensuke_Aida: confused by the teach? :3
/Shinji_Ikari: Basically.
/Kensuke_Aida: lololol ur not the only 1.
/Shinji_Ikari: Huh?
/Kensuke_Aida: some students have a running bet as to whether fire-sensei's a boy or a girl.
/Shinji_Ikari: Fire-sensei?
/Kensuke_Aida: the teach is 1 of the cooks. did ya see all the fire during lunch? tat's why ^_~
/Shinji_Ikari: …and the suit?
/Kensuke_Aida: currently, leading theory is that fire-sensei's an alien. :O

Shinji resisted the urge to facepalm.

xxxx

Biology was slightly less bewildering. If only because the professor was not as demented as Dr. Akagi.

To be honest though, the large bone saw attached to his belt was slightly disconcerting.

"And now cless, heving finished our look et ze circulatory system, ve turn to ze skeletal system."

Ludwig Riemann was a rather tall figure at 5'10", but what drew the most attention was the white doctor's coat that he wore, coattails draping over the back of his shins. Gray pants were tucked into black boots, and his hands were covered with red surgical gloves. With a long face, narrow cheekbones, and beady blue eyes, his image as a mad doctor was slightly mitigated by the small eyeglasses – which gave him an oddly pacifying effect – and the well-combed brown hair. The graying sideburns added an air of maturity to the man, who was obviously of German descent.

"It iss fortunate zat ve haff cadewerss loaned from ze hospital. Perfect for hendss-on lessonss!"

A large chart detailing the anatomy of the human skeletal system hung on the chalkboard, but that wasn't what got the student's attentions: it was the ice chest sitting by Mr. Riemann's desk, from which he pulled out a carefully wrapped human leg.

Needless to say, the bone saw was put to good use…so to speak.

Shinji had never been more grateful for the fact that his adventures with Annette had inured him to the sight of blood, because he was sure he'd be vomiting otherwise.

xxxx

"And that class concludes our basic overview of the solar system," said David Lowrie, hands closing an astronomy textbook.

Right on cue, the bell rang, signifying the end of class, and the end of school in particular. Hikari immediately took control.

"STAND! BOW! DISMISSED!"

Everyone stood and bowed as one. Shinji couldn't help but marvel at how Hikari's orders seemed to induce absolute obedience.

As everyone began to file out, Shinji leaned back in his chair, feeling relieved that the day was FINALLY OVER. But I'll have to come back tomorrow…

Oh well. At least he had some measure of what to expect from now on.

He turned briefly towards Mr. Lowrie, the teacher of astronomy and earth science. Shinji had recognized him as the man from the roof earlier that morning, but hadn't bothered to ask what he had been doing. No, Shinji was thinking about the schoolwork that was about to be piled onto him. So much to catch up on, but so little time…

"You kids have yourselves a good day now," commented the Australian as he left the classroom.

Shinji decided to get up and pack away his books, wondering what he was going to be doing for the rest of the afternoon. My father said something about a training program…with Misato-san, Lieutenant Aoba, and Sergeant Ayanami…maybe I should look for Ayanami-san?

A shadow fell over his desk.

Shinji looked up, seeing a tall, dark-haired boy in a navy blue tracksuit. Brown eyes were staring intently at him. "Uh…can I help you?"

The boy spoke in a gruff tone, in a way that revealed his Osakan heritage. "Name's Suzuhara. Toji Suzuhara."

"…I'm Shinji Ikari."

"Yeah yeah, you introduced yourself today." Toji's look was appraising, as though he were taking Shinji's measure. "You're not what I'd expect the son of Ikari to be like…or a giant robot pilot for that matter."

Shinji tried REALLY hard not to pale. Oh no, please NOT another fanboy…

"Eh…it is what it is, I guess." He pulled out a piece of paper and a pen. "Little sister wants an autograph."

Shinji blinked. "…huh?"

"Did I stutter?"

"Er, no, but-"

"Then go ahead and do it."

Shinji numbly took the pen and paper, jotting down his signature. "Um…who should I make it out to?"

Toji frowned, trying to recall his sister's exact wording. "Well…eh, just write it out to Ai Suzuhara."

"…okay." Weird. Am I going to have to do this often? Somehow, Shinji had never quite connected celebrity status with being a Pilot of Unit-01. "Here you
go."

"Thanks." Pocketing the paper, the boy suddenly snapped his fingers. "Oh yeah, one more thing."

Suzuhara quickly grabbed Shinji by his shirt collar, lifting him into the air. The new student gaped – momentarily marveling at Toji's strength – before yelling, "H-h-hey! What gives?"

"Not that I'm ungrateful for you destroying that monster or anything…but next time, try and keep your fighting out of the city. You see the news clip of the fight?"

"The one with my father in the shower?"

"Yes," droned Toji, eyebrow twitching. "Well, you kicked the Angel right into my family's apartment building."

"WHA?" Shinji's mind boggled. "B-but there should've only been defensive platforms standing!" That's what Misato-san had said! "They were unmanned!"

"Yep, but my dad says that NERV has a thing about maximizing available space. Section 3 employees live in apartment blocks that have some of those defensive platforms on top. You know, so they don't have to travel far for maintenance and stuff." Toji gave Shinji a wry grin, though the irritation in his eyes was palpable. "Guess what part of NERV my old man works for?"

A lead weight began to settle in Shinji's stomach. "…Section 3?"

"Bingo."

"…sorry." Shinji hadn't even known. Had…had his actions killed anyone?

"Eh, it could've been worse. Everyone was in the shelters outside the city, so I'll just let ya off with a warning." With that having been said, Toji set Shinji down on his feet. "Aside from that…I think you did pretty good. My old man's not that annoyed…least we had everything insured."

It eased Shinji's fears, though it didn't make him feel any better about wrecking Suzuhara's home. "Still…sorry." Would Misato-san have told me? Would father? He would have to find out; the lives of others were dependent upon him in more ways than one. The thought of anyone's death being by his hands…sickened him.

"Sheesh, you don't have to keep apologizing. Just make sure to keep the ass-kicking AWAY from Tokyo-3, got it?"

Shinji nodded, suddenly wanting to leave and get to whatever training Misato-san had in mind. I have to get better at Piloting. For so many years, he had waited to fulfill the promise to his father. I didn't come this far to have people die by my hands.

"Ikari."

Shinji turned towards the door, where Rei Ayanami was standing with steel crutches in hand. "Er, hello Ayanami-san."

"I have one last meeting with the Class Representatives. You will meet me at the front of the school in fifteen minutes."

"Er…yes ma'am."

Sergeant Ayanami promptly left.

Shinji shivered at the thought of Ayanami-san meeting the Class Representatives again. She must be their ringleader or something.

"She gone?"

Shinji blinked, turning to find Toji Suzuhara hiding under a desk. Huh? "Er…yes."

The jock sighed with relief, standing up with an annoyed grunt. "Geez, that girl terrifies me." He sent another glance towards Shinji, mentally comparing the two Pilots. "You know, you're nothing like the Commander of NERV or that other Pilot."

"What's wrong with Ayanami-san?"

Toji grimaced as an uncomfortable memory came to mind. "Well, we kinda got off on the wrong foot…"

xxxx

/April 11, 2012/

/Class 2-G, Tokyo-3 Municipal Middle School/

With the creation of NERV in 2010, the Hakone region underwent a truly massive redevelopment campaign, all to prepare for an upcoming war against the kin of the First Angel. The sheer number of new employees being hired by NERV had necessitated the construction of brand new schooling facilities for their families.

Case in point: to supplement the schools already in existence, Tokyo-3 Municipal Elementary School, Middle School, Junior High School, and High School had been opened in March of 2011, just one month prior to the beginning of the new school year.

Toji Suzuhara had been one of the many children attending these new facilities, primarily geared toward the offspring of NERV employees. He was in the fifth grade at Tokyo-3 Municipal Middle School, located near the shores of Lake Ashi.

Right now, clad in blue pants and a jacket with a white shirt – the boys' uniform for the Middle School – Toji was lazing about, waiting for homeroom to start.

"Mr. Suzuhara!"

Toji glanced over at the Class Representative, hands on her hips. However, the pink jacket, white blouse, blue skirt, and blue ribbon tie did not make her intimidating. The twin pigtails did not help. In all honesty, Toji just didn't find her frightening. "What is it, Class Rep?"

"You forgot to deliver the bulletins again!"

Toji grumbled with annoyance. "Man, those things are a waste of time. Why not just put them on the desks and let them get it?"

"Because you're supposed to deliver them to the students' homes! The teacher said so!"

Toji snorted. "Teacher's pet."

Hikari flushed, angry at the boy's disobedience. "Now Toji-!"

"Suzuhara."

The boy and girl paused, turning towards one of the newer students. Toji's eyes narrowed. Ayanami.

The blue-haired girl was…weird. She was new to the school, and her behavior suggested that she was from some backwoods corner of the globe. However, the fact that she had her own Section 2 escort to and from school revealed her connection to NERV. In all honesty, the rather emotionless girl was annoying to Toji, constantly asking everyone questions with obvious answers. To be fair, she mostly kept to herself when not asking questions, so at least she wasn't always annoying like a certain Class Rep.

However, it seemed like Ms. Blue Hair had something to say. "What do you want?"

"Although my knowledge of social customs and school etiquette is still insufficient, I am well aware of the significance of authority. I am also aware that those in authority must be obeyed when they give you orders."

Toji stared right back at Rei. "Your point?"

"If you continue to disobey the Class Representative, then I will step in and assist." To emphasize her point, Rei pulled out a spoon, which she promptly bent with both hands.

Toji snorted. "That supposed to impress me?"

Saying nothing else, Rei went to her seat.

xx

A few hours later, it was time for P.E. Wednesday was essentially a free day, so the boys and girls were doing as they pleased. Case in point, Toji and a number of boys were conducting an impromptu baseball game.

As Toji stood at shortstop, waiting for the next kid to come the plate, his eyes trailed towards a certain blue-haired girl, standing near a pile of bats. What's she doing?

Rei picked up a bat of solid aluminum, grabbing an end with each hand.

She casually bent it in half.

Toji blinked, staring as Rei calmly walked away. What the…?

He completely missed the ground ball that flew between his legs, much to the chagrin of his teammates.

xx

The end of the school day.

Toji Suzuhara was in an oddly contemplative mood as he walked home, wondering what in the world Rei's behavior had been about that day…no, screw that! How the heck did she bend a baseball bat in half? She's just a GIRL!

Blue hair.

Toji looked across the street, seeing none other than Rei Ayanami standing by a street lamp. Her Seciton 2 escort was nowhere to be seen. Is she following me?

The young girl placed her left hand onto the cool metal, wrapping her right hand around the other side.

…what is she doing?

A groan of metal echoed through the air as Ayanami bent the street lamp over, the steel seemingly as pliable as putty.

Toji's jaw dropped. No…NO WAY.

Rei Ayanami stared quietly at the young jock before walking away.

Toji impulsively gulped. Suddenly, he couldn't get home fast enough.

xx

That night.

Toji was sleeping soundly in his bed, the strangeness of the day already fading from his mind.

"Suzuhara."

Toji's eyes fluttered open, quickly adjusting to the lack of light. "Hurgh…what's going on…who's there?" He looked up, seeing a girl, blue hair visible in the moonlight shining through his window. "WHA? AYANA-!"

A petite hand clamped over his mouth, silencing any noise he might've made. The girl's grip was as strong as iron, stronger than any he had ever felt. "If you talk, things will become unpleasant. Understand?"

Toji fearfully nodded in response to the emotionless girl. Rei Ayanami quietly removed her hand, her red eyes commanding all attention from the frightened preteen.

That's when Rei grabbed Toji's right forearm with both hands.

Needless to say, Toji's immediate thoughts were of the spoon, the bat, and the street lamp. She's not…she's not…SHE'S NOT…!

"Will you obey the Class Representative?"

Toji acceded to Rei's demands.

"Then we will have no problems." The blue-haired girl released Toji's arm, turning towards his window.

After everything that had happened, the boy had not expected the girl to open the window and leap off of the ledge.

Toji's eyes followed her, watching the schoolgirl jump from rooftop-to-rooftop with the ease of an acrobat.

He quickly ran to the bathroom before he could soil himself from fear.

xxxx

/September 22, 2015/

/Tokyo-3 Municipal Junior High School/

Shinji's skin was several shades paler. His father's words regarding Ayanami's ability to protect herself suddenly rang true.

"Needless to say, I had no choice but to shape up. I've poked and prodded every now and then, getting a victory when I can…" Toji sagged, his masculinity feeling threatened by the memory of an eleven-year old girl capable of breaking his arm. "But you know, that girl's just not someone to mess around with." Glancing at Shinji, the jock cracked a grin. "To be honest, I'm glad you're easier to deal with."

"…"

"You okay?"

"…I have to go train with Ayanami-san this afternoon."

Toji stared, face slack at this admission.

He then saluted the assuredly-doomed Pilot. "Well, it was nice knowing you."

xxxx

/Keter, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Professor Gendo Ikari watched as his son finished conversing with Suzuhara's boy, silently recalling the incident spoken of. The Sergeant had always been somewhat…enthusiastic, in ensuring the stability of any command structure.

For the past hour, the Supreme Commander of NERV had been browsing and viewing security footage from throughout Tokyo-3, monitoring his son's activities. He had watched his son's reaction to the commercial, his trek to school, various snippets from his classes, and the entirety of his conversations with Aida and Suzuhara.

A message suddenly came from the MAGI monitoring the municipal schools, flashing onto his monitor.

HEROD: He's not as hopeless as you are.

The Professor quietly pulled some peanuts out of a can within his cloak, an audible snap echoing through his office as he chewed. Let the barbs come; he was well aware of his own limits. Of his own deficiencies.

Even so…

He calmly pressed his earpiece. "Tomoe Ikari." Like with the rest of the earpieces issued to NERV Employees, the phrase triggered a searching algorithm in the MAGI. A name would often be enough, though phone numbers and nicknames were also acceptable, provided that the phrases were synchronized with a particular person. For example, if one had said 'Fuyutsuki', the MAGI would connect the earpiece with Fuyutsuki's. If one had said 'Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi's Home', it would have connected the earpiece with the mainline telephone at Katsuragi's apartment.

If one had said '867-5309', they would've gotten a preprogrammed insult from MAGI-00 telling the caller to stop wasting time.

Here, 'Tomoe Ikari' connected Gendo's earpiece with a secure line that went from his office to none other than Tomoe's home in Okayama-2.

"Hello! Ikari Residence."

"Hello Alicia."

"...hello Gendo."

As if on cue, there was the awkwardness. Not that he could blame her; Yui's 'passing' had heavily strained relations between Gendo and Tomoe, and that naturally spread to Tomoe's immediate family. If Annette's opinion of Gendo was 'he's crazy', and Alicia's was 'he's unsettling', then Tomoe's was unfit to print.

Still, he was quite capable of being cordial. "Is Tomoe there?"

"…hold on a second." There was an audible thump as the phone was placed down on a table, with Alicia's voice fading away as she called for her husband.

Moments later, someone picked it up. "Er…this is Shinji's dad, right?"

Female, but younger than Alicia. "Ah. This is Annette, I assume?"

"Well, I overheard that you were on the phone. I've got a question: how is that boring cousin of mine doing? I haven't even heard from him since he left. It's like he didn't even appreciate everything I went through to help him man up!"

Through the bluster and arrogance, Gendo could see her blatant concern for Shinji. "Well-"

"ANNETTE! Off the phone."

"Gah! Er, yes sir, tou-san!"

The shuffling of hands. A deep snort. "What do you want Gendo? Have your schemes finally ended up killing Yui's boy?"

Gendo chuckled. "Not in the slightest. You've always been so…antagonistic." The Professor's tone didn't waver one iota. "My son has faith in my work. Surely it's not beyond you."

"Unfortunately, children can be blind to their parents' faults."

"I can't deny that. But no, that's not why I'm calling. Put it on speakerphone."

"Why?"

"My message is for all of you."

Silence, followed by an irritated grunt. A distinct crackle of static signified the change to speakerphone. "Okay Gendo, what is that you want?"

"Is it about Shinji?"

"Come on, tell us what's up with Shinji-kun!"

The worry they expressed for the boy's well-being was quite encouraging. If the footage from Shinji's first day at school hadn't been enough, this was; he had made the right choice all those years ago. "Tomoe. Alicia. Even you Annette. You all…did an exceptional job raising Shinji. I'm grateful."

The silence was practically golden. He could just picture Tomoe's flustered face, having to deal with a legitimate compliment from Gendo. A point for me.

"…when can we talk with Shinji?"

"That's why I called. I was going to give you his contact information."

"…really?" Alicia seemed honestly surprised. "That's awfully considerate of you."

"Shinji would inevitably want to contact you. I'm just saving time." He promptly relayed Misato Katsuragi's mailing address and phone number to a still-stunned Tomoe, Alicia, and Annette. "Any questions?"

"…YOU DON'T MAKE ANY SENSE!" screamed Annette. "I mean, you deliver that message to Shinji by a RAIL GUN, complete with a self-destruct message…but then you offer words of thanks, and now this? START MAKING SENSE!"

Gendo smirked at Annette's outburst. "Here's a free life lesson: to live is to be predictable and unpredictable at the same time."

"…THAT DOESN'T MAKE SENSE EITHER!"

"Have your father explain it." With a click, Gendo cut the connection.

"It seems your fondness for cryptic fortune cookie phrases hasn't faded."

The Professor turned towards his Sub-Director, who was walking towards his desk with a relaxed gait. In the man's hands was a rather thick folder. "Unlike fortune cookies, the probability of my lessons being useful is one."

Kozou Fuyutsuki chuckled. The little changes were truly amazing to behold; though the Supreme Commander didn't seem that different outwardly, Fuyutsuki could fully appreciate the changes. "You've been rather lively since your son's returned."

"For purely understandable reasons. He's one of the more important elements of the Scenario." Plus, it was heartening to see that the boy had grown into an upstanding young man. "So," continued Gendo, eyes on the folder in Fuyutsuki's hands. "Is that it?"

"Yes." Fuyutsuki handed the folder to the Supreme Commander. "Well, from what we've been able to glean, that is."

The Professor opened the manila folder, looking at the red title on the first page.

INTERNAL NERV-1 REPORT

NIPPON HEAVY INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS

[JET ALONE PROJECT]​

"Jet Alone…" Gendo smirked. "Going forth in solitude, expecting to be a pillar of strength…how foolish."

After all, man was at his weakest when he was alone.

xxxx

/En Route to Ayanami's Apartment, Tokyo-3/

Shinji Ikari had wanted to help Rei Ayanami walk home. Alas, she had insisted she was fine with her crutches. So he was stuck following her.

"My offer still stands."

"I would rather you save your strength and stamina for training."

Lather, rinse, repeat. Shinji couldn't help but press on, if only because of how stubborn Ayanami-san was being. "It's not like it'll hurt you or anything."

"I am capable of moving on my own. Your assistance is not needed."

"…fine." The boy sighed, quietly turning his attention to their surroundings. They were nearing a line of apartment buildings, around a dozen in row; he briefly conjured up the image of someone flicking them over like dominoes. Then he imagined his father building a giant hand to do just that and I should stop this line of thought RIGHT now. "So…Ayanami-san…"

"Though Ayanami-san is acceptable, I prefer being referred to by rank."

"Er…okay then…Sergeant Ayanami, right?" Hearing no reprimand, Shinji continued. "So…what's it been like, living here in Tokyo-3 for the past several years?"

"We have been preparing for the return of the Angels."

"…well, I know that, but what about you?"

Rei had been informed by the Professor that his son would likely ask questions. He had also clarified what she could reveal and what she absolutely could NOT reveal. Furthermore, he had made it very clear that revealing unclassified information was her prerogative.

Like with any loophole, the Sergeant would exploit it mercilessly. This boy was not worthy. Not yet. "Has Supreme Commander Ikari informed you of anything in particular?"

"Well, he's your legal guardian, and you've been living in the Geofront for most of your life…but father told me that anything else I learn is up to you."

"And it will stay that way until I am convinced of your worth. Until then, I will not elaborate on the details of my existence."

Geez, so cold. Ayanami's demeanor was odd; for one who carried herself so calmly and detachedly, she wasn't making any secret of her doubts regarding his capability as a Pilot. Maybe she was expecting someone like my father.

Rei came to a stop in front of an apartment elevator. As the two stepped inside, Ayanami pressed various floor buttons in a finite sequence. A card reader popped out from one of the walls, through which the Sergeant swiped her NERV ID.

Moments later, the elevator began to descend. Shinji quickly noted that there was no 'basement floors' for the apartment. "Uh…Sergeant Ayanami…?"

"This elevator is taking us to my personalized training course down in the Geofront. We will be meeting Lieutenant Aoba there, as well as Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi and her team."

"…Misato-san's 'team'?"

"Associates of hers. They will also assist in training you."

Knowing Misato, her team was going to be comprised entirely of the insane and eccentric.

Minutes passed in silence, Shinji unwilling to further question the Sergeant. He would eventually get answers…besides, the gulf she had imposed about herself was clear enough to see.

Ding.

The elevator doors opened…

"Well now, glad to see ya!" exclaimed David Lowrie. "And here we were starting to think you might've chickened out!"

Shinji Ikari, oddly enough, did not react with surprise, with shock, with despair, or even with irritation.

No, he reacted with simple acceptance. And I was completely right.

Rei Ayanami calmly hobbled out of the elevator, taking her place by the side of Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi. Gathered in front of the elevator doors were Misato, Shiori Aoba…and the nine teachers Shinji had met earlier that day.

"Shinji-kun, glad you could make it!"

"Misato-san…what are my teachers doing here?"

"Well, they're here to help train you of course!" Misato gestured dramatically towards her cohorts. "Meet the team! Starting with the Sniper!"

Mr. Lowrie tipped his hat as a form of courtesy.

"The Spy!"

Henshin Obimura calmly took a drag on his cigarette.

"The Scout!"

"Yo, you better be ready kid!" boasted Tommy Patrick.

"The Soldier!"

"You better be ready for HELL, baby-face!" snarled John Doe, an infantry helmet sitting on his head.

"The Engineer!"

Dell Conagher gave a light wave, wrench in hand.

"The Pyro!"

"MMMRRRRRMMMPHHH!" roared Shinobu Heisen.

"The Heavy!"

Aleksander Kasparov chuckled darkly as he cracked his meaty knuckles.

"The Demoman!"

Tavish DeGroot was too busy inhaling the alcohol from his bottle of scrumpy to reply.

"The Medic!"

Ludwig Riemann smiled as held up a large first-aid kit. "Don't vorry, I'll be here to help vith any inchuriess!"

"The Cute Bruiser!"

Sergeant Ayanami arched an eyebrow. "I thought my codename was simply 'Sergeant', Lieutenant Colonel-"

"The Lunatic!"

Lieutenant Aoba shrugged, hands resting on the holsters holding her two handguns. "What can I say?" The brown-haired woman's mellow smile contorted into a twisted grin. "The lady knows me."

"And last but not least, I'm the Boss." Misato stood proudly, arms crossed over her chest. "Shinji Ikari, we're here to whip you into shape!"

Shinji Ikari simply stared.

Had this occurred earlier in the day, he might've been sufficiently freaked out enough to consider making a break for it.

Now, he simply settled for sighing while he mustered up his conviction. "Let's just get started."

Misato grinned. "THAT'S the spirit!"

xxxx

/The Atlantic Ocean/

Somewhere, deep down, a long-dormant orb stirred.

Energy began to shift, and matter reordered itself in a manner befitting the one about to emerge.

Ah, you are [awakening/rising/manifesting].

…YES. I AM I. I AM [INDECIPHERABLE]. The soul, the very essence of the entity reached out across the ether, and comprehended. THE LILIM WOULD [KNOW/PERCEIVE/COMPREHEND] [INDECIPHERABLE] AS…SHAMSHEL.

Indeed. Welcome, Shamshel.

…ONE OF US HAS ALREADY [FALLEN/RETURNED].

Yes.

I MUST [LEARN/PERCEIVE/EXAMINE] THAT WHICH OUR [EQUAL/KIN/BROTHER] [PERCEIVED/FELT/EXPERIENCED].

Worry not. You will know all that Sachiel knew.

And thus did the Fourth Angel emerge into new life.

xxxx

To be continued…

Next time…

Episode 5: TRIAL (To Be a Pilot)

xxxx

(Next time: training.)

 

[Ultra Sonic 007]

Flashes of memory.

A callused hand penned down notes and personal thoughts in various languages…it was a journal, of sorts. A way of passing time as he observed the evolving civilizations of the Lilim.

Who are you?

Multiple scrolls. All stored in ceramic jars, as per local customs. Travelling was done less and less as he opted for a more in-depth observation of social, cultural, and religious norms. The sincerity and intensity with which these creatures pondered the origin of man, life, and the universe itself was truly fascinating.

I know you.

A city in flames. Warring kingdoms and empires fighting for various reasons not of his concern. He had to flee the city without drawing too much attention; after all, it would be the height of folly to unduly influence the experiment.

How do I know you…

A shame though. The individuals and groups he had interacted with on a daily basis had provided a great change of pace. For such a base and underdeveloped species, the Lilim were…intriguing.

…when I do not know myself?

The passage of time. Somewhere else. Far from where he had been before. Travelling with a caravan through some desert, as per standard procedure. Blending in was essential; as per the social norm, he took the opportunity to cleanse himself in the stream.

Who am I?

Red eyes were reflected by the water.

I tire of this uncertainty! I TIRE OF THIS VOID!

I WANT TO BE WHOLE AGAIN!

xx

[INDECIPHERABLE].

Hmm?

YOU WERE [DISTURBED/AWAY/VACANT].

My sincerest apologies. My current [nature/form/existence] is often…vexing.

YOU MERELY DESIRE WHAT WE ALL DESIRE: [COMPLEMENTATION/UNITY/TRUTH].

Ah, if only I could join you.

[FEAR/DESPAIR] NOT, MY [EQUAL/KIN/BROTHER]. I WILL OBTAIN THE LOCATION OF OUR [CREATOR/FATHER/SOURCE].

I [pray/wish/desire] that LILITH will provide.

There was nothing more to be said, as the mind and soul of Shamshel's [equal/kin/brother] receded into the ether.

The Fourth Angel continued on its journey towards Tokyo-3.

xxxx

Episode 5: TRIAL (To Be a Pilot)

xxxx

/Keter, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Gendo Ikari closed the folder detailing the Jet Alone Project of NHIS. There was…potential. This will need to be addressed. Multiple plots were swirling in his mind, combining and separating at various points, ultimately forming into a cohesive plan. Hmm…this could work…

He would need to speak with the Old Men.

But first…

He quietly activated the touch-screen monitor on his desk, initiating a phone call to NERV-2 in Berlin-2, Germany. In particular, the office of the Commander of NERV-2.

Moments passed before a face came to the screen: a middle-aged man, fairly trim for his position. His dusty brown hair – showing signs of baldness on the forehead – was neatly combed, and there were visages of gray along the sideburns. The man's brown eyes widened slightly at the impromptu call. "Supreme Commander Ikari?"

"Commander Langley."

Pieter Langley frowned, most likely because he was jumping to conclusions. "You're not requesting Unit-02 already, are you? After only one Angel?"

"No. Not yet."

The man's relief was palpable. "I see…then pardon me for asking why you're calling?"

"I need you to run a standard inspection of the Mark 06."

"…why? That's not scheduled for another two weeks."

"Because I have a plan that requires you to do it posthaste."

The Commander of NERV-2 grimaced at the phrase. "And that's exactly what I was afraid of."

Professor Ikari chuckled. "You're quite the pessimist."

"My concern is that it involves calling in the Chairman's ward for the required sync tests." Pieter Langley leaned back in his chair, giving a greater view of the wooden panels covering his office's walls. "That boy makes me…uneasy."

"If you say so." Not that Gendo disagreed; it was certainly right for the Commander of NERV-2 to be disturbed by Keel Lorenz's ward. Just not for the same reasons he was thinking of. "Has he been inappropriate with your daughters?"

Pieter snorted. "The Fourth Child would be six feet under if he had done that. No, it's nothing of that nature…he's just so reclusive."

The Chairman can be blamed for that. For reasons completely understandable to Lorenz, of course.

After all, Kaworu Nagisa, the Fourth Child, bore a…significant role in the Scenario. "Nonetheless, I want the Mark 06 to undergo an inspection."

"The Committee will be suspicious."

"Not in particular. You've ordered impromptu inspections of Unit-02 and the Mark 06 before. Once more won't be any different."

"Only because they were done at YOUR request."

Gendo smirked; over the past few years, he had made a habit out of calling the various NERV branches and request for them to examine the Evangelions, almost always at a moment's notice. Even NERV-1 had not been spared. "Of course."

"…let me get this straight." Pieter groaned, feeling a headache coming on. "You got me into this habit just so nobody would find it odd that I'd call for a sudden inspection."

Gendo was silent. There was nothing to add to that which was obvious.

Pieter sighed. "Fine, I'll see to it that it's taken care of."

"Much obliged, Commander Langley." He mentally began collating the necessary information for his plan. He would need Dr. Akagi to start preparing.

"Is there anything else you need? I'm sure the technical staff here would love to be inconvenienced by the Commander who has a habit of ordering random inspections."

"It's not my fault you're unable to cultivate a positive reputation. That lies entirely on your shoulders."

"…"

"By the way, how are the children?"

Relieved to be on another topic that wasn't tainted by Ikari's eccentric nature, Pieter replied, "Well, they've both been okay. Mari's a little irritated that 'big sister's not playing with me!' It's been like this since the Third Angel's attack."

"Your eldest has been reviewing the classified report, I take it."

Pieter shrugged. "Asuka's a Pilot, and she's going to be deployed." The man muttered something that sounded like 'eventually'. "She's been taking notes and imagining various scenarios where anything might happen: lack of ammunition, damaged limbs, low gravity, the Moon being on a collision course with Tokyo-3..."

Gendo smirked. "She sounds…eager."

"Well, she's been preparing for years…and your son's performance only made her that much more excited. How is that boy of yours, by the way?"

The Professor reached into his cloak, calmly pulling out a large pocketwatch that possessed both an analogue and digital clock. "At the moment?"

xxxx

"RUN YOU MAGGOT!"

Shinji's limbs felt like they were about to fall off. The weights strapped to his wrists and ankles – each one weighing seven pounds – were a direct cause for this sensation.

"You're almost there! Time for another hot one!"

PSSSSH.

"GAH!" shrieked Shinji as scalding water fell on his back, propelling him to run even faster, despite his protesting muscles.

Mr. Doe, the Soldier, continued to shout demoralizing statements in his ear. Mr. Patrick, the Scout, was compelling Shinji to run faster by pouring hot water from a tea can onto him.

In Shinji's admittedly-not-quite-expert opinion, they were NOT HELPING.

The finish line!

Shinji collapsed face-first onto the grass.

Misato, the Boss, leaned down towards the Third Child. "Well, I think that's enough physical conditioning for one day, don't you think?"

Shinji's groan said enough.

xxxx

"…he's probably trying to find a happy place," finished Gendo.

"…I see."

xxxx

/Ayanami's Training Ground, Geofront, Tokyo-3/

Shinji Ikari grimaced as Ludwigg Riemann, the Medic, wiped a chilled ointment across his bare back. "Cold…"

"It vill redusse irritation in de skin and rechuwenate you!" exclaimed the Medic as kneaded the blue paste into Shinji's skin. "Look on ze bright site; no more exercisse today!"

Thank the gods for small favors, thought Shinji as he looked around at this 'training ground'. Ayanami's elevator ran along the edge of the Geofront, so the training ground was in a rather isolated location. Large, rocky cliffs bordered the entire expanse, save for a large, temperate mixed forest due south. The cliffs surrounded large grasslands dotted with boulders and large rock formations, and a number of bunkers; nearby the elevator was a small, two-story barracks, to house equipment and training gear. All in all, the training ground accompanied a territory roughly one thousand yards in diameter.

Shinji couldn't help but wonder, if this was indeed Ayanami's own training ground, how she used it all.

"And ve are done!"

Shinji gingerly stood up, silently grateful that the Scout hadn't exactly doused him with water; he was feeling burnt out as it was, pun not intended. "Thank you sir."

"It vas nosing! Vait a few minutess before you put on your shirt." exclaimed the Medic as he turned towards the Boss. "He is all yours!"

Shinji stood up from the large rock he was sitting on, turning towards Misato. "Well Shinji-kun, you ready?"

"What are we doing now?" asked the boy, quietly looking around for where the others were. After his 'warm-up run', the other members of Misato's 'team' had vacated to other parts of the training ground, leaving the Medic to tend to Shinji's back.

"Weapons training!"

"…like what? Knives? Guns?"

Misato grinned. "Well, I figured you could use a little bit more of a break before handling anything with a kick, so we're going to start you off with Heavy and Lunatic!"

"…sounds like fun," droned the Pilot of Unit-01.

The two ended up by a large target range of sorts; a long slab of metal one hundred yards long bearing numerous slots and ditches. Lieutenant Shiori Aoba was working on a small terminal sticking up from the ground, whilst Aleksander Kasparov was hunched over a large crate, the open lid all but obscuring him from view. A large tripod – its metal legs five inches thick – was set up in front of the range, though it wasn't supporting anything.

"Hey, Lunatic!"

Aoba turned around, eyes first settling on Shinji. "Hmm…" She leered. "Not that scrawny for a fourteen-year-old."

Shinji flushed. It's been a few minutes, right? Right! He quickly put his shirt back on.

Aoba snickered. "Ah, I've forgotten how easy it is to pick on kids…"

"Well, given the people we normally have to deal with, of course it's easy to get under his skin," remarked Misato, her tone not-so-subtly warning the Lieutenant to take it easy. They didn't want to traumatize Shinji, after all.

At least, not too much.

Shiori shrugged. "I guess so." She pressed several more keys in the terminal, putting the finishing touches for the boy's target practice. "Gotta get my kicks somehow. Haven't been able to calm down since the Angel attacked."

"You could always practice with your band."

"Gotta be in the mood, Boss," retorted Shiori as she reached into her pocket and pulled out a lighter and a carton of cigarettes. "Besides, I've had to prepare for our newest victim!"

Shinji couldn't help but notice Shiori's pointed stare in his direction.

The wiggling eyebrows were a pretty clear indicator that she was being humorous.

It still brought him no comfort. "So…" Redirect the topic of conversation! "What exactly am I going to be shooting?"

"Glad you asked!" Shiori glanced over at the Heavy. "Hey! Big guy! Let's get Sasha set up!"

Shinji blinked. Wait, Sasha?

Shinji's answer came in the form of Mr. Kasparov walking towards the, muscular arms clutching one of the largest weapons he had ever seen in human hands. It was nothing less than a minigun, with six sturdy barrels and a large white ammo drum affixed to the underside. From barrel to grip, 'Sasha' was almost as tall as he was.

The large thud that sounded as Heavy locked it down on the tripod made Shinji shiver from the sheer size of it. "Um…that's a big gun…" This wouldn't have any kick? Seriously?

"That is Sasha for you. Fortunately, I like them big!" joked the Heavy, which got a smirk from Misato and a bawdy laugh from Aoba who were in on the dirty joke. "She is capable of firing these-" From the pocket of his black vest, Mr. Kasparov pulled out a cartridge that seemed to scream 'You think I'm a fifty-caliber? I'm sorry, I don't play with LITTLE GIRLS'. Or something to that effect. "-custom-tool cartridges. She is also capable of shooting ten thousand rounds per minute."

Shinji blinked.

Aoba leaned towards his ear and whispered, "Your whole monthly salary? Gone. In less than a SECOND."

The Third Child was torn between appreciating the sheer firepower and balking at the waste. "That…seems needlessly expensive."

"Tell that to targets!" chortled the Heavy as he pocketed the round. "But we are here to PRACTICE! Only dummy rounds, for working on aim!"

"…am I missing something?" Shinji looked once more at the gigantic minigun. It seemed to be taunting him. "When am I going to be using this?"

Misato was immediately there, holding a schematic in her hands. It detailed a weapon similar in form and structure to 'Sasha'. The key difference? Numerous images of an Evangelion holding it. "Practice for when you use the Eva-scale model."

"I call her Olga," interjected the Heavy, a grin on his face.

The Third Child stared, noting that the schematics detailed, among other things, bullets the size of minivans. "…that's…" Cool? Impractical? Somewhat terrifying? "…neat."

"Ain't it though!" agreed Aoba as she finished locking the minigun onto the tripod. "Now kid, you've got to hold this switch on the top handle to rotate the barrels, and the trigger's on the right handle. Come and get into position, and just aim and shoot!"

Shinji warily stepped up to the tripod, resting his hands where Aoba had showed him. He lightly flinched as the Lieutenant pushed some plugs into his ears; it was an action that Aoba, Misato, and Mr. Kasparov repeated on themselves.

"Aaa~aand here we GO!"

With a press of a button, Shiori Aoba activated the target range. From the slits and trenches emerged large cardboard targets fashioned after the Third Angel, classic kaiju, odd polygons, and what seemed to be an old man with a visor.

Shinji took aim at the one shaped like the Third Angel. Okay. Rotate barrels. A distinct whirr echoed through the air as the six barrels began to spin. And…firing.

Even with the earplugs, 'Sasha' sounded thunderous.

On a side note, she was hard to aim. Even with the tripod, the minigun sent visible tremors through Shinji's arms, causing him to strafe a number of targets before he impulsively released the weapon. The boy absentmindedly looked at his hands, almost unsure that they were still there due to numbness.

"Square your shoulders and get a firm grip! KEEP FIRING!"

The fact that he somehow heard Lieutenant Aoba's shout through the earplugs knocked the Third Child out of his stupor. "Okay…" He warily took hold of the handles, taking aim at some strange fractal shape; mathematicians would call it a crude approximation of the Mandelbrot set.

Whirr…BARRABAARABAARABAARABAARABAARA!

Several more targets went down before Shinji released Sasha, mutely flexing his fingers. Can't get a good grip. As he reflected on this dilemma, he barely managed to catch a disgusted groan.

"Oh for cryin' out loud, we're gonna be here all day!"

Before Shinji could turn around, a pair of slim yet callused hands grabbed the back of his wrists and planted them on the handles. The body pressing up against his back was…decidedly feminine. The breasts pressing against the back of his neck were quite effective at distracting him from the numbness of his hands. "…uh…" he moaned, hormones conflicting with his sense of propriety.

Aoba used her right hand to briefly remove Shinji's earplug, allowing him to hear her voice. Her low, husky voice. "You listenin'?"

A nervous gulp. "…yes."

Aoba grinned. "Good."

Misato rolled her eyes at the sight of Shiori practically spooning the Third Child. She didn't know whether to feel annoyed that Aoba was still trying to get under Shinji's skin, or to compliment her on coming up with a surefire way to help Shinji with firing the minigun. Since this involved the Professor's son, she decided to let Aoba do her thing.

Plus, the latter option came with a greater opportunity for humor.

The Heavy, boisterous fellow that he was, decided to play along. "You must be careful! Greater precision is needed to handle two women! It is fortunate Sasha doesn't mind sharing!"

Oh GODS, thought Shinji as his face became as red as a tomato.

Lieutenant Aoba leaned closer to Shinji's right ear, a wicked grin on her face. "Do you realize the stuff you've accomplished already?"

"Er…" Think about what Annette would do if she saw you in this position. Yes; angry cousin translated to peaceful thoughts! All was right in the world! "Well…I helped kill an Angel…"

"And what are the Angels?"

"…uh…one of them was responsible for Second Impact."

"Exactly. So powerful, so invulnerable, that in the past, they would've been called gods." In all actuality, some cults had sprung up once the truth of Second Impact had been unveiled in 2002; needless to say, given cults like the Light of the Divine, the Angelic Acolytes, Heaven's Eyes, and so forth, the Abrahamic faiths were given more than enough reasons to criticize the popular 'Angel' terminology used by the UN and NERV. But that only reinforced Aoba's point. "And two days ago, you killed one."

"…well, I suppo-"

"And stop right there." Shiori tilted Shinji's face so at least one of his eyes could see hers. "That little mentality of yours bugs me. You 'suppose' that you killed an Angel? No. You DID kill it. Say it."

"…I…killed an Angel?"

"Again."

"I killed an Angel."

"With gusto!"

"I killed an Angel!"

"…eh, it's a work in progress." Shiori leaned just a lii~iitle bit closer, pressing just a lii~iitle harder against him. Her black eyes seemed to twinkle with a strange kind of playfully chaotic madness. "Live it up a little. You've got a death dealer in your hands! Shout like a madman, let the world know that it is now your BITCH!"

Shinji blinked. "…uh…"

"And GOING LOUD!" Before Shinji knew what was going on, the ear plug was back in and Aoba's hands were pressing down on his. The handles were down, Sasha was roaring, and more targets were going down.

"YEAAAAAAAAAAAAH! COME ON KID! SCREAM!"

Shinji flinched at the numbing rumble of Sasha and the boisterous howls of Lieutenant Aoba, audible over the deafening gunfire in spite of the ear plugs. Just go along, just go along, just do what the crazy lady says! "Yaaaaah!"

"LOUDER!"

"YAAAAAAAH!"

"I SAID LOUDER DAMN IT!"

"RAAAAAAAAAA!" howled Shinji. Aoba was still lightly guiding his aim, providing stability, but Shinji was slowly – but steadily – taking control. It was odd; mindlessly screaming made it harder for the boy to think about other things ('Why is this woman pressed up against me so tightly?' or 'I can't feel my hands!', or even 'NOTHING CAN STOP ME NOW!'), which immediately made his 'lesson' in handling a minigun easier to handle.

Since shouting at the top of your lungs was apparently contagious, it didn't take long before Misato and Aleksander were huddled beside the two, howling and bellowing like the best of them. It was a very touching sight, really.

Alas, the necessity of ammunition brought the fun to an end as Sasha petered off. The Boss, the Heavy, and the Lunatic all stepped back as Shinji exhaled, throat raw from all the shouting. "So," said Aoba as she plucked the plugs from her ears. "Not so bad, eh?"

Honestly? Shinji couldn't say no. "No…it wasn't."

Right out of nowhere, Mr. Kasparov was tackled by Randall.

Shinji nearly jumped at the sudden shift in the mood, mostly because the giant robot-piloting cat had come out of NOWHERE!

It must be noted that Misato and Shiori were less concerned about this new development, given that it wasn't hard for Randall to be stealthy when he wanted to be.

Alexsander was concerned least of all. "SO! You have come for REMATCH! YAAAAGH!"

It was this scene that the Sniper came upon five minutes later: the Heavy riding Randall like a mechanical bull, the Lieutenant Colonel and her Second-in-Command making bets on how long it would take for Randall to shake him off (and more importantly, how Randall would do it), and Shinji staring dumbly at the whole scene.

Poor kid looked shell-shocked. "So, Junior," interjected David Lowrie as he put a hand on the Pilot's shoulder. "You look like they put you through the ringer."

"…it's just…" Shinji blinked, still trying to transition from his adrenaline high that was 'handling Sasha' (oh goody now he suddenly remembered Mr. Kasparov's innuendo) to the utter confusion that was…this. Wasn't he supposed to be training? "…so…random…"

"Ah. I know the feeling. You'll get used to it. Everyone does eventually." He calmly led the boy along, heading for another section of Ayanami's Training Ground. "Let's get going. After workin' with that bunch, I have an inkling that you'll appreciate something that's far more…efficient."

xxxx

Meanwhile, far above the Geofront, a familiar rail gun was protruding from Mount Hakone. Alarms blared as personnel cleared the area.

No, there was no Angel about to attack. This was simply a case of overnight delivery. Authority had already been obtained from the proper channels; besides, it wasn't that uncommon a sight.

A high-pitched crack split the air, and the sphere was beyond line of sight in an instant.

xxxx

/Ritsuko Akagi's Laboratory, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"And…done." Maya Ibuki watched the screen on the terminal, depicting a curve tracing about Earth's atmosphere before converging at a destination along the 159th longitude, somewhere between the 69th and 68th latitude. "The samples are en route to NERV-Alaska." The use of the rail gun within Mt. Hakone seemed somewhat excessive, but the fact that it involved samples of the Third Angel meant that conventional delivery methods were unsuitable: after all, Angelic material fetched…exorbitant prices on the black market. Besides, given that they had obtained authority from the Defense Ministry and the UN, there was really no reason not to use it. "How many layers do you think will survive the landing?"

"Hmm…given the latest model? I think about five."

"Out of ten, hmm?" So many redundancies. Then again, the core of the pod – wherein the samples were stored – would be experiencing the smoothest possible ride available, so there was little to complain in that regard. "So, how are the repairs of Unit-01 coming along?"

"We're currently replacing the breastplate. The preliminary repairs should be done by tonight, but it's going to take at least a week to run a full diagnostic. How about the plug suit?"

"Just putting on the finishing touches." Maya turned her attention back to one of the transparent chambers, wherein the Third Child's plug suit was held open by mechanical hands, whilst others were surgically attaching the necessary equipment.

"…is Akagi-senpai still gone?"

"…yes." Maya sighed, leaning back in her chair. Dr. Akagi had been performing 'maintenance' on MAGI-00 since morning. With BALTHASAR, MELCHIOR, and CASPER, it wouldn't have been an issue. But with HEROD? It was very likely that senpai was going to be…unstable. "Miyata-kun, does the rest of the armor refitting need your direct supervision? You KNOW we're going to have to cheer her up whenever she gets back."

"Just let me finish refitting the primary armor plating. It shouldn't take more than-"

"IBUKI!"

Maya blanched. "…she's back."

"…I'm on my way." Miyata cut the connection to Maya's earpiece.

Okay Maya, you can do it. Just…keep her distracted! The Lieutenant slowly turned, preparing to see a furious Dr. Akagi and why was there a folder in her face? "Er…"

"Once you're done with the plug suit, I need you to compile the information in this folder," ordered Dr. Akagi, mouth clamped around a lit cigar. "And once that brother of yours gets back here, I want him to report to me."

B-b-brother? Dr. Akagi was actually differentiating between her and Miyata! Not good, not good! "Um…so senpai, how was maintenance of MAGI-00?"

A rather sharp look nearly made Maya cringe before Ritsuko sighed. "We were interrupted before we could conclude. MAGI-00 and I will have to finish our discussion at a later date." The doctor turned on her heel, heading towards a deeper part of the lab.

Maya stared, feeling a flutter of hope. "What happened?"

Ritsuko looked over her shoulder. "The Commander had an assignment for me to carry out. And so here I am. NOW GET BUSY, SLAVE! WE HAVE WORK TO DO!" With that final comment, Dr. Akagi stomped off, muttering in a somewhat maniacal fashion.

Maya kept staring.

Then she slumped to the ground, sighing with sweet relief. THANK YOU PROFESSOR! If there was one thing that could get Dr. Akagi back on track, it was an assignment that was not part of the doctor's usual duties/hobbies. If nothing else, it preoccupied her and kept her in her 'normal' mindset. After all, Dr. Akagi's insanity was predictable; whenever she had to work with MAGI-00 for an extended period of time, senpai would get angry, morose ...she was liable to enter any number of volatile emotional states.

Yes, insanity was safe.

Feeling somewhat better now that the crisis was averted, Maya looked down at the folder in her hands, feeling the weathered paper and wondering how old it was.

INTERNAL GEHIRN REPORT

ARTIFICIAL EVOLUTION LABORATORY

-PROJECT NEPHILIM-​

Maya blinked, now aware of why the folder felt so old.

GEHIRN: the organization that had preceded NERV.

No wonder the Commander needed to talk to MAGI-00, thought Maya as she tucked the folder under arm. If there was anything about GEHIRN that the Commander didn't know, HEROD would know.

xxxx

/Corpus Callosum, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

The corpus callosum, in the human brain, was a bundle of neural fibers that connected the left and right hemispheres of the brain, assisting in communication between the left and right cerebral hemispheres.

Fitting that it would be here, right underneath the Operations Deck, where the cores of the four MAGI laid, constantly communicating within and without as they administered the functions of NERV-1 and Tokyo-3.

"I've given you plenty of information. You can deduce the rest for yourself."

Gendo Ikari stood stoically in the darkened room, lit only by the central tube that contained MAGI-00's core, suspended in LCL. The other three MAGI's cores were shut tight, arranged in a triangular pattern about MAGI-00.

"You were in GEHIRN long before I was. You were in direct control of Project Nephilim upon its official inception. You spoke with every single client. I want your personal opinion, HEROD."

A humorless laugh, feminine yet devoid of any womanly charm. "Don't be so formal. It's just the two of us." The core of the MAGI leaned further down; what was once a woman's body was mostly mangled from the torso down, replaced and supplemented with cybernetic instruments dedicated to life support. From the back of the intact skull protruded a number of cables, injected directly into her brain. In spite of this, her arms remained whole, which allowed her to press against the tube. What was left of her burgundy hair floated listlessly in the LCL, framing a beautiful face that served as naught but a reminder of what she had once been. "I don't think your wife would mind at all."

Gendo did not twitch. "You know as well as I do that my wife tried to foster good relationships with her coworkers. With that in mind, I'll oblige you…Naoko."

The core of MAGI-00 chuckled, her voice echoing through the speakers affixed to the walls. "That's much better." The former head of Project-E leaned back, showing no shame of the fact that what remained of her upper torso was bare. "So…elaborate on your suspicions."

"Given what we know of the Jet Alone, the potential pilots are going to be from Group 2-S."

"Ah…Class S of the second generation." A wistful smile adorned Naoko's face. "Such a good crop…the culmination of so much hard work…"

"Of the twenty different cells in Group 2-S, the SSDF commissioned nine of them."

"Cells seven through fifteen. If you know this much, why come to me?"

"I want a second opinion. The public unveiling of the Jet Alone will be in two weeks. I want specifics."

Naoko floated back, arms crossed in a conceited manner. "Well, asking me like that won't get you anywhere. Shouldn't a man know to be respectful to a woman? So brutish…so uncultured…" The core of MAGI-00 gave a sultry smile. "I think I'm up to task of civilizing you."

Gendo didn't miss a beat. He was used to Naoko's games. "You act as if I'll ever forget why you bear the title of HEROD."

A brief flash of pain. That was all Naoko was willing to reveal beyond her mask of indignation. "Hmph."

The Professor quietly pulled a bottle of what appeared to be red wine and a bottle of water from within his cloak. Naoko arched an eyebrow. "Pinot noir?"

Gendo nonchalantly pulled open two funnels from the terminal upon which MAGI-00's tube sat.

As Naoko watched Gendo pour one drink down each funnel, she grabbed two synthetic tubes from the mass of equipment protruding from her torso; she clamped down on one, sucking down large quantities of water to wash the taste of LCL from her mouth. Afterward, she immediately slipped the other one through her lips, taking a tentative sip.

Her disappointment was tempered only by the fact that she had expected it. "Grape juice again…" After all, given the various drugs and chemicals needed to keep her alive, even minute levels of alcohol could disrupt her life support measures. "Such a tease."

Gendo quietly pocketed the half-empty bottles into his cloak; despite the opaque lenses, she could tell that there was an expectant look in his eyes.

Typical. Naoko sighed; there was no use stretching things out further. "Of the nine cells commissioned by the SSDF from Class 2-S…if there were going to be any potential pilots for the Jet Alone, it would be the subjects of Cell Twelve."

Group 2-S: Cell 12. Gendo immediately recalled the file summary of the two subjects in that group. "Kirishima and Yamagishi."

"Yes."

"Very good. That'll be all for now." With that said, Gendo Ikari turned on his heel, departing from Corpus Callosum.

Naoko watched quietly as the Supreme Commander left, leaving her alone. Just her and the three supercomputers that she had created. "Still so cold..."

Not that she could blame him.

The core of HEROD scowled as she pounded her tube once, her body rigid with frustration. Damn it. She took another long sip of the remaining grape juice, mentally flinching at how its sweet savor was ruined by the bloody aftertaste of LCL. "Damn it all."

xxxx

/Ayanami's Training Grounds, Geofront, Tokyo-3/

KRAKOOM!

Another large hole appeared in the target, punctured by a high-velocity shell.

The Sniper nodded appreciatively. "You're not doing too bad for a rookie."

"Thanks…" grumbled Shinji, wincing at the pain in his shoulder. Even with the strap-on pad wrapped over his arm, the kick from the sniper rifle was going to leave some heavy bruising. It probably didn't help that Mr. Lowrie had ordered him (not asked, not requested, ordered) to fire it once with no padding. All so he could understand the magnitude of the power at his fingertips. And then to make him understand how much more powerful the Evangelion was compared to a mere rifle.

Well, mission accomplished! "The Evangelion's durable enough to absorb the recoil, isn't it?"

The Australian made some thoughtful noses, seemingly giving some thought to Shinji's question. "From what I know, yes. That doesn't mean there WON'T be any recoil; even in a gigantic mecha, you're still going to have to realign with the target after every shot. You hear me now?"

"Yes. I understand." This was nicer. Something that actually seemed like 'training'.

"Now Junior, let's see if you can hit that target." Mr. Lowrie pointed towards a rather large outcropping of rocks that stood a hundred yards away, upon which stood a large bull's-eye target.

"…that's a long way."

"At least it isn't shooting back at you. You're not gonna have that luxury out in the field."

"I guess so," replied Shinji as looked into the scope and tried to hold his aim steady.

Meanwhile, from atop a rather large outcropping of rocks and boulders to the west, Sergeant Rei Ayanami watched as her newest…coworker…tried to take out the target. 'Try' being the operative word. His relative aptitude in Unit-01 doesn't necessarily translate to aptitude in his human form. The blue-haired girl lightly flexed her left hand's fingers about her single crutch; she had taken the opportunity during Shinji's…calisthenics…to change into her standard white plug suit with tan fatigues. They were far more suitable attire for training. His training should be more intense than this. She briefly recalled her memories of the day's prior events, along with what she had witnessed of Shinji's 'heavy weapons' training with the Lieutenant Colonel, Lieutenant Aoba, and Mr. Kasparov. Why isn't it?

"You are being overly critical."

The Sergeant lightly tilted her red eyes, taking note of Henshin Obimura, standing there with a lit cigarette betwixt his fingers. "Pardon?"

The Spy remarked, "Your expression is rather intent. You feel that there should be less lollygagging and more focus in the boy's training."

Ayanami didn't bother to correct Mr. Obimura. "Though I am aware that my training regimen would be ill-suited for Ikari, the tasks that will be demanded of him require a routine more rigid than what I've seen today."

The debonair Frenchman chuckled. "Anything else?"

Rei's eyes slightly narrowed as she sensed the opportunity to voice her concerns. "Although the eccentricities of your colleagues are well- documented, it seemed somewhat…forced, today."

"Oh?" The Spy couldn't help but mentally smirk; with the exception of Lowrie, the rest of his 'teammates' would, in a more civilized town, be blocked from any teaching duties whatsoever, simply because their 'quirks' would be deemed subversive and distracting in an educational environment. Of course, his and Lowrie's backgrounds would quickly have them barred from teaching either, regardless of their expertise in certain subjects. But that was beside the point. "Do elaborate."

"Mr. Doe goes on tangents every class, though their historical inaccuracy varies from day to day. Mr. Kasparov will occasionally rant regarding his possessions. Mr. DeGroot will sometimes defy the active prohibition against alcohol on school grounds. Mr. Patrick will, on occasion, thoroughly exhaust his students. Mr. Conagher has a penchant for tuning his constructs during a lesson." Rei didn't bother saying anything regarding the teaching format of the Pyro's class. Shinobu Heisen's condition would have made such a structure unavoidable, had it not been
for the fact that Heisen was capable of clear speech. The Pyro just chose not to, for reasons that the Sergeant still found curious. "Mr. Riemann has been known to alter the scheduled lesson plan to make room for more dissections." She continued to list her observations in a clinical manner, with no hints of an accusatory tone whatsoever. The matter didn't warrant it, after all. "For all of those occasions to occur simultaneously on Ikari's first day? Somewhat improbable."

"It certainly sounds improbable, true…is there anything else?"

Sergeant Ayanami briefly considered whether her next observation would be construed as being paranoid. Being considered paranoid by someone was only problematic if that 'someone' had a direct line with one's superiors. Hmm. The first-years and third-years of the school were taught by other faculty members (who were, suffice to say, relatively normal compared to the second-year teachers); in the case of absent faculty, substitutes could usually be obtained to teach. As per school protocol, homerooms were merged or split along grade levels if the student-to-teacher ratio tilted one way or another, but that didn't ease Ayanami's suspicions. "That a high number of students would be absent is understandable; I cannot fault their decision to stay home so soon after an Angel attack. I also understand that some of the faculty might have been frightened by the appearance of the Third Angel. However, I find it highly unlikely that, with the exception of you and your teammates, almost the entire faculty would be absent."

The Spy smirked as he took a draw, letting smoke waft through the air of the Geofront. "Very observant, Sergeant Ayanami. Yes; most of the first-year and third-year faculty were essentially told to take the rest of the week off, by order of the Supreme Commander."

Rei's eyes widened a fraction. Professor Ikari ordered the other teachers to go on leave? The connections were starting to form. Ikari had come to what would appear to a newcomer as a rather desolate school, given how many homerooms had to be reorganized in the wake of so many absences; that would only make the second-year teachers' behavior all the more…peculiar."…am I correct in assuming that your teammates' behavior today in class was also an order? As well as the seemingly-lax behavior of your teammates during today's training exercise?"

"Very good. I must commend you on your attention to detail." Not that some of his teammates – the Boss included – needed an excuse to have a little fun with their work. "Now, Sergeant…" Mr. Obimura took on a bit of a lecturing air as sniper fire echoed from the plains below. "Why would Gendo Ikari enact such measures?"

The answer was patent. "The only new variable that would explain the Professor's orders is his son…I can only surmise that he is testing Ikari in some manner."

The Spy nodded, briefly noting that Shinji's target had finally been chipped. "Essentially. By next week, the boy's training will have fallen into a far more orthodox routine, and the school will have settled back into its usual schedule."

The Sergeant briefly puzzled over this, trying to ascertain what manner of test this could possibly be. "What attributes of Ikari's are being tested?"

"Well, think of it this way…if the boy doesn't run after his first week here, everything after this will be easy by comparison."

Rei quietly thought about it. His training regimen is only going to become more strenuous, and his academic work will not decrease in relative difficulty…and the arrival of more Angels will only complicate matters. "I'm afraid I don't follow."

The economics teacher couldn't help but sigh. Alas, there are some things that your attention to detail still miss. Despite the young girl's keen intellect and focus, she lacked the necessary emotional and social background to actually catch the undertone of various things. Still, if what the Boss says is true, she used to be worse. "Well, I'm sure it'll make sense in time…" The man's voice trailed off as his eyes focused on the proceedings below. The Sniper was showing his kukri knife to Shinji. "Hmph," sneered Mr. Obimura. "The boy won't learn anything using a
bludgeon." The Spy casually whipped out his butterfly knife, expertly handling the blade in his right hand. "If you'll excuse me, Sergeant."

Rei Ayanami calmly watched as Mr. Obimura deftly descended, heading towards Shinji and the Sniper. Hmm…this will merit some thought.

It would have to wait, however; her turn with Ikari was approaching.

With that in mind, Rei calmly pulled her crutch out of her left hand with her right, balancing delicately on her good right foot. She observed the tilt and layout of the rocks beneath her…and jumped.

She landed on her right foot, bending her ankle and knee so as to enable her jump to the next lowest rock. Another landing on one foot, followed by another, with her left side barely moving as she went airborne. Finally, at the last boulder, she applied extra pressure with toes, bending forward as she performed a single flip. The world went upside-down and back again as she landed on the ground, compensating for the force by bending far enough forward on her right leg so that she could extend her left leg far enough back to avoid it colliding with the ground. With her right arm extended out – crutch included for stability – and the slight set to her jaw due to mild tremors of pain, she looked very much like a crippled bird.

My balance is starting to return.

Briefly satisfied by her body's progress, Sergeant Rei Ayanami stood tall, grasping her crutch in her left hand before hobbling off to another section of her training grounds.

xxxx

/Alpha Site, NHIS Research and Development, Osaka-1, Japan/

By 2015, flooded coastal cities had become the new norm for the Japanese.

Tokyo. Yokohama. Chiba. Fukuyama. Shizuoka. Okayama. Even Hiroshima.

Osaka was no exception.

Osaka-2 resided further inland, north of the foothills of Mt. Ikoma; the remnants of Osaka-1 were submerged, save for the skyscrapers. It was always a strangely fitting scene to witness; no other monument or memorial could evoke the reality of what had been lost. At least, not as well as a city swamped by the sea could.

However, any memorial could have…ulterior uses.

One skyscraper stood tall, looking decidedly more fortified against the elements than the decrepit remains of Osaka-1. A large roadway of steel and concrete connected this building with the dry shores to the north. The gateways into this building were marked by the logo of Nippon Heavy Industrial Systems: a white hexagon, over which were imprinted curved red letters spelling 'NHIS'.

This was one of the many branches of the R&D arm of NHIS: Alpha Site.

Deep within this refitted skyscraper, the finishing touches were being put on NHIS's magnum opus.

In one room, a small group of technicians monitored the activities in the adjacent chamber, connected by a large window of reinforced glass. Within this chamber, one could see a crude robotic limb protruding from the wall, ending in a decidedly humanoid hand.

One technician, fully embracing the concept of someone married to their job, looked like he hadn't shaved in days. A metal nametag bearing the words 'Dr. Tomino' could be seen pinned to his blue shirt, which looked in dire need of washing. Alas, there were more important things to do: right now, he was slipping his bare right arm into what casual observers would term 'the longest, tightest glove ever'. Crafted out of a black material that looked like a cross between spandex and latex, the gauntlet's elbow had a number of cables connecting it to a nearby
computer terminal. "Okay ladies and gentlemen…commencing test of MTS version 7.81."

A flurry of activity erupted as the technicians commenced the test. "Activating dummy arm."

An electrical impulse flashed through the layers of the gauntlet; almost instantaneously, the movements of the robotic arm mirrored those of the gauntlet. A twitch of the fingers, a shift of the arm, a flex of the wrist; Dr. Tomino's movements were mirrored perfectly by those of the robotic arm. "Reaction times?"

"Lag between dummy arm and test limb comes to four milliseconds."

Dr. Tomino smiled; that was one-tenth faster than the previous version. "Commence phase two."

Inside the chamber, a portion of the floor receded, allowing a hydraulic lift to ascend. Upon it sat a large block of rubble, obtained from Osaka-1.

Tentatively, Tomino reached forward, watching as the test limb moved over the concrete block. Ever so gently, he opened his hand – an action repeated by the robot arm – and reached down, as if to grab the block itself.

As the test limb grabbed onto the rubble, Dr. Tomino found himself unable to make a fist. To any technician looking, it was as if the dummy arm was holding onto an invisible block. "How is the tactile layer performing?"

"Sensors are in perfect one-to-one correspondence. Performance is nominal."

Good. The bald doctor clenched harder, actively trying to make a fist. Little by little, his hand constricted, mirroring the test limb as its powerful hydraulics compressed and crushed the concrete block. Finally, the rubble was unceremoniously pulverized, leaving nothing but dust and pebbles. "Commence phase three."

The lift in the chamber descended; when it returned one minute later, a glass sphere sat upon it. As before, Tomino manipulated the dummy arm until the test limb grasped the orb. The man could feel the resistance in his hands; it was as though his hand was that of the test limb's, as though he were grabbing a glass orb. "Sensitivity?"

"Optimal."

Dr. Tomino couldn't help but grin. This was, after all, the culmination of over three years of work and research. "Excellent. Deactivate the dummy arm."

"Deactivating."

The connections between the dummy arm and the test limb were terminated; as Tomino retracted himself from the dummy arm, the doors to the room slid open. "Dr. Tomino!"

The bald doctor turned around, grinning at the sight of a younger man with combed black hair and an immaculate charcoal gray suit. "Doing your rounds again, Tokita-san?"

Shiro Tokita chuckled as he looked at Tomino's team of technicians before settling on the sight of the dummy arm. "Well, we do have our big demonstration in less than a month, and the board has pinned the reputation of NHIS on Jet Alone. "

Tomino smirked. "Feh, even if that clunker of yours doesn't replace the Evangelions, the advancements we've made in the pursuit of this project will keep the company afloat."

Ignoring the light-hearted jab at the Jet Alone, Tokita remarked, "You sound quite proud."

"Damn right I am. We've just concluded the preliminary testing of Version 7.81 of the Mobile Trace System. The results are the best we've had; at our current schedule, we can upload the software to the main unit and the pilot suits in four days."

So we're that close to completing the final tests. It was almost here. There were a number of long-time employees of NHIS involved in the Jet Alone Project, but Tokita had been there since the beginning. By now, he had come to view the eponymous robot as his baby. So to speak. "Glad to hear it." Turning on his heel, Tokita gave off a friendly wave. "Keep up the good work! I'm off to complete my rounds."

"Say hi to the girls for us!" shouted Dr. Tomino.

Shiro Tokita smiled as he walked through the halls of Alpha Site. NERV had had a practical stranglehold over global defense spending since 2010; despite the 'necessity' of their existence as vanguard against the Angels, no one would complain if they got knocked down by a peg. Or two. Or a hundred.

If I can arrange things properly…we'll show our superiority to the Evas. Directly.

Yes; things were looking bright for the Jet Alone Project.

xxxx

/Ayanami's Training Grounds, Geofront, Tokyo-3/

Shinji Ikari grimaced as the grenade bounced haphazardly off of the cliff, falling well short of the hanging target, suspending in air by thick metal rods extending from the rocks. "Missed again."

"Ah, ye shouldn't beat yeself up, laddy!" exclaimed Tavish DeGroot, watching as the grenade was shot out of the sky by one of the Engineer's sentries before it could hit the ground. "It takes time ta get ye instincts up and runnin'!" The Demoman grabbed the grenade launcher from Shinji, firing it once. "Besides, this lehsson was aboot gehttin' intraduced ta a simple concept."

One grenade bounced of a small outcropping jutting from the cliff, bouncing high above the clay target…right into a precariously perched boulder.

KaBOOM!

The boulder fell, taking the target with it. Shinji blinked as the black cyclops grinned. "Usin' the ehnvironment ta ye advantage."

"I understand." Shinji bowed, grateful for the idea, and altogether intrigued by the concept. He turned towards Dell Conagher, who was tinkering with a strange-looking rifle. "Conagher-san?

"Yeah kid?"

"Um…what now?"

"Well kiddo, I don't quite have all of the human-scale variants of the Evangelion arsenal complete yet," replied the Engineer, eyes hidden by his goggles. "See, this here is a miniaturized version of the Eva-scaled assault rifle, which is big enough for Godzilla to use. My primary focus with you is something that is essential: on-the-spot maintenance. Jams, equipment failures, that sort of thing…and I want ya to become familiar with Unit-01 first before we do any of that. We clear?"

Shinji nodded, mentally joyful at the prospect of his workload being lessened, even if it was just a little.

"MMPH."

The three turned, seeing the Pyro standing there. Shinobu Heisen nodded towards Shinji, motioning for him to follow.

"Er…okay." Shinji bowed once to both the Demoman and the Engineer. "Thank you DeGroot-san, the Conagher-san." The boy turned on his heel and followed the Pyro, leaving the two behind.

Tavish chuckled. "Any hints as ta who the lad's gonna train with next?"

"Lemme load up my equipment; I don't wanna miss this."

Meanwhile, the Pyro and Shinji were headed south, towards large groups of rocks grouped together to form rings and other geometric shapes; the grass was becoming noticeably thinner as they advanced. "So…Heisen-san?"

"Mmph! MMMPHmmmph."

Shinji let his head sag. "I guess I shouldn't have bothered…"

A muffled chuckle could be heard right as the Pyro reached up, turning a hidden switch underneath the mask; an audible click was heard. "Sorry. I sometimes forget to turn it off when I'm not on the school grounds."

Shinji nearly fell over. "Y-Y-You can TALK?"

"I was talking before, wasn't I?" remarked the Pyro. The voice was scratchy, almost mechanical; even now, the Pyro's gender couldn't be discerned. "I just keep my muffler on when I'm teaching."

"…why?"

"It amuses me."

"…"

"Hey, you kids still learn. Besides, it's nice to have a healthy dose of weird."

"…"

The Pyro chuckled. "You kids will understand one day." If nothing else, the Pyro's teaching style would make for…vivid memories. "Well, here we are."

Shinji came to a stop, noting that they within a portion of the field surrounded by a twenty-six-meter circle of boulders; there was a small metal trench encircling the large patch of dirt within, but there was little else of note.

Except, of course, for Rei Ayanami.

"Ayanami-san?" The Third Child stared; he hadn't seen the blue-haired Pilot since the training session had begun after school. Her crutches lied on the ground, and she was standing with her right side oriented towards him, her injured side facing the other way. Clutched in her hand were two large wooden rods: bo staves.

"Ikari." Rei thrust her right hand forward, releasing one of the staves. Shinji awkwardly caught it, confused by the resolute character in her eyes. "Prepare yourself."

"…for what?" Shinji turned back towards the Pyro, who was now standing beyond the trench. "What's going on?"

"Don't mind me." The Pyro flipped open a hatch atop one of the boulders, revealing a large valve. As Shinobu turned it, diminutive pipes built into the bottom of the trench began expelling gas into the air. "I'm just here to keep you from escaping from Cute Bruiser."

Shinji blanched. Rei didn't bother correcting the Pyro as to her proper title; she had resigned to the inevitable.

"Besides…" The Pyro produced a match, seemingly from nowhere. "I have a name to live up to." Shinobu scratched the match against the surface of a boulder and dropped it.

FWOOSH!

A loud roar echoed about as the gas jets came alight, forming a large wall of fire that was easily ten feet tall. Shinji yelped, quickly backing away from the flames. This is crazy…this is crazy…

"Ikari."

The Third Child turned around again, now facing Ayanami once again. She stood stoically in the center of the ring of fire, seemingly unperturbed by the flames that surrounded them. "This is crazy…"

"Your training with me is simple: your sole objective is to knock me to my feet. Once you have accomplished this, we will be done."

Shinji boggled; half of her body was wrapped in bandages! It was a miracle that she was even standing without her crutches! "…this is CRAZY!"

"You have been given your objective." Rei effortlessly twirled the staff in her hand, as if unconcerned with the possibility of Shinji exacerbating her current injuries. It was as if…it wasn't even a concern. "Come."

The young boy grimaced; Rei had given him an objective, but…how could he take this seriously? Even in spite of Toji's experiences and his father's assurances to the contrary, he still couldn't bring himself to fully acknowledge Ayanami as a threat in her current condition. I'll just…be quick about it. He could just knock her off-balance; a simple charge would do it, right? I'm sorry if this hurts, Ayanami-san.

Shinji sprinted, holding his staff forward with both hands. He would bowl her over, end this insanity, and apologize profusely once Heisen-san extinguished the flames.

KLACK!

Of course, things couldn't always go according to plan. No…way…

Rei Ayanami had stopped him in his tracks.

She…

With one hand gripped tightly around her staff, she had blocked Shinji's own staff, completely halting his charge. It had been like running into a brick wall.

…hasn't even budged…

With a deceptively swift move, Rei thrust her staff into Shinji's stomach before knocking his legs out from under him. The Third Child gasped as he landed hard on his torso.

Rei looked entirely unimpressed. "Ikari. You now have an easier objective." She twirled her staff again, resting it on her shoulders. "Our training will end if you can move me from where I stand."

Shinji gulped.

xxxx

/Pilot Chambers, Alpha Site, NHIS Research and Development, Osaka-1, Japan/

"Kirishima-san!"

Hikari Kirishima didn't bother turning to greet Shiro Tokita. A rather lithe woman with lustrous brown hair wrapped in a ponytail, Hikari's primary purpose at Alpha Site was to serve as the JSSDF's official overseer for Group 2-S: Cell Twelve of GEHIRN's Project Nephilim. From her perspective, the whole business with the Jet Alone Project was tantamount to a 'whose is bigger' contest with NERV.

True, she could see the value of having an alternative to NERV in fighting the Angels, but the implicit and explicit support of the JSSDF in NHIS's endeavor was foolhardy. Especially if the Jet Alone wasn't up to snuff.

Why yes, she was taking this out on Tokita, knowing full well it was unfair. She didn't care.

Tokita sighed as he entered the fairly nondescript room; it was originally a storage room, so much of the space was unused. Three corners of the room were rather decked out with furniture, electronics, and bookshelves; they served as the temporary living quarters for Kirishima and the two nephilim under her command. The other corner was laden with metal weights and large blocks; some made of rock, some made of synthetic materials; the only other door in the room led to a large restroom, complete with baths and showers.

A number of the blocks were broken. Some had holes shaped like human fists.

"I see the girls have been busy." Tokita glanced over at Hikari. "I wish you'd tell Mana to take it easy on the equipment."

"You can't blame me! The stuff's too damn fragile!"

Tokita looked upward; a pale-skinned girl with short silver hair was doing pull-ups with one hand, using one of the thick metal supports along the ceiling as the bar. In her free hand was a dumbbell labeled '200 lbs'. Clad in nothing but red jogging shorts and a sports bra, Mana Kirishima was busy working off excess energy.

Tokita could empathize with her impatience. Or was it eagerness? "Well, the request I sent for titanium and tungsten blocks was denied. The official reason was that they did not think the threat of injury was worth it."

Mana scoffed, dropping and flipping before landing on her feet, not the least bit concerned about the thirty-foot plunge. Her body had the proportions of a fourteen-year old girl, though her lithe and limber musculature spoke of great athleticism with no loss of her feminine curves. "You think they'd know better by now."

Tokita shrugged, as if to say it was out of his hands. "Where's Mayumi?"

"Re-dying her hair." Mana turned towards the restroom door and inhaled. "SIS! WE'VE GOT COMPANY!"

A voice echoed out of the restroom. "…coming!"

Moments passed before the door burst open, revealing another pale-skinned girl of similar frame and build to Mana; however, she bore long straight hair going down to the middle of her back, with the bangs cut straight above her brow. Though it was colored black, the hints of blue that peeked through was evidence of an incomplete dye job. She was in the middle of putting in her last contact lens; after she was done, her natural red eyes bore a brown color. To complete her self-imposed transformation, she put on eyeglasses with black rims.

Neither the contact lenses nor the glasses aided her sight; her vision was 20/4 as it was. However, she preferred this look.

To the casual observer, Mana Kirishima was alien, a humanoid figure that bore too many subtle differences to be considered truly human. Mayumi Yamagishi, on the other hand, seemed like a normal teenager who didn't get enough sun.

Both of them were capable of superhuman feats.

Both of them were the pilots delegated by the JSSDF for the Jet Alone Project.

Tokita smiled. "Hello Mayumi."

"Hello, Tokita-san." While Mana's voice always seemed to carry a brash undertone, Mayumi's could be described as 'polite'. "Is there something we can do for you?"

"I was just making my rounds, doing a check up on the status of the other departments." The man's smile turned into a full-blown grin; the excitement was visibly getting to him. "The final adjustments are almost complete; all that's left is to have you girls do a full test of the latest version of the Mobile Trace System."

"Sweet," replied Mana, fully anxious to get going. She had been at this damned facility for too long as it was. "Was starting to get bored; when's the test?"

"0700. I trust you'll be punctual." Tokita glanced at Hikari Kirishima, who was subtly telling him to leave with her gaze. "I know that your overseer isn't exactly enthused with Jet Alone, but I want to extend my thanks to the two of you for helping us reach this point."

Mana shrugged, indifferent to the man's thanks. Mayumi bowed courteously. "We're glad to serve, Tokita-san."

Shiro turned on his heel, stopping beside Hikari Kirishima. The woman's stoic stare somehow evoked enough fury to intimidate a mad bull. "It certainly wouldn't kill you to be more supportive."

"I'm as supportive as I need to be. What I don't need is you undermining my authority, Shiro Tokita."

Tokita resisted the urge to sigh; his efforts at obtaining the woman's support – further getting into the good graces of the two pilots – had been nothing but ineffective. He would've tried more overt measures at winning her support, but they were unlikely to work; she had been a Sergeant First Class in the army wing of the JSSDF, a position she had earned during the Impact Wars. She had been given plenty of opportunity to advance in the ranks, but she had always elected to remain a Sergeant First Class, in direct command of a platoon.

That is, until she had been reassigned to Nephilim Oversight.

Oh well. I've tried my best. "Of course, Kirishima-san." He bowed once to both Mana and Mayumi before departing.

Hikari Kirishima frowned before turning towards the two nephilim. "I shouldn't have to remind you two that he only cares about your usefulness to the Jet Alone Project."

"So?" remarked Mana. "We do our job, and it won't matter how much he cares."

"I don't know, I think he cares a little," interjected Mayumi, looking intently at the patches of blue hair that were still visible. "I mean, Tokita-san's been very accommodating."

Hikari sighed, marveling at how the two nephilim were so…fundamentally different from each other. "Regardless, try to remember the consequences of this demonstration: you can't afford to screw up."

"Roger!" saluted Mana and Mayumi.

Or else the SSDF will make the two of you scapegoats. That, more than anything else, was why Hikari Kirishima was opposed to the Japanese military's involvement with this project: because it could very easily backfire, and it would be her girls that would get the shaft.

xxxx

/Ayanami's Training Grounds, Geofront, Tokyo-3/

Rei Ayanami was officially recognized as a Sergeant in NERV's paramilitary structure. As per NERV's charter with the UN, this rank was recognized by the JSSDF due to the fact that she had served for the mandated amount of time – no less than one month, no more than three – in the appropriate branch of the Japanese military.

As per Professor Ikari's 'suggestion', she had served in the army branch of the JSSDF.

By sheer coincidence, her period of service had coincided with the Mexican Campaign of 2010, where UN forces had gathered to obliterate the multinational terrorist organization El Baile de la Muerte. The forces involved were culled from America, Canada, Britain, Japan, and France.

To summarize, Sergeant Ayanami had actual experience on the field of battle.

Landsharks don't quite compare.

SMACK!

Shinji grimaced as he was sent into the ground, his shoulder bearing another sizeable bruise. Despite the sheer power that the Sergeant was capable of, her control over herself was ironclad. None of her blows would leave significant injuries…but they were punishing enough to make the Third Child grimace.

With her silhouette wreathed by flames, her stoic demeanor, and piercing red eyes, the supposed 'Cute Bruiser' looked like a demon.

"Perhaps my expectations were too high." Rei intentionally spoke with a cadence of irritation. If she had to beat the point into the boy's head, then so be it. "I thought you were aware of the situation."

"…situation…?" groaned Shinji as he pulled himself to his feet.

"The Angels. The Evangelions. Are you unaware of how serious this upcoming war is?"

"I'm aware!"

"Then why aren't you acting like it?"

Shinji boggled, even as he subconsciously gripped his bo staff. "Huh?"

"There are a number of ways in which you could've ended this fight. You have yet to ascertain any of them." Rei casually twirled her staff, eyes never leaving Ikari's own. "Or perhaps you are unwilling?" The brief grimace on the Third's face gave her an answer. "You are aware of how to obtain victory, yet decline to do so…" A minor glare, just enough to show her displeasure. "Disappointing."

Oh great, now what did I do? Shinji wiped the beading sweat from his forehead; even with the size of the impromptu arena, the heat of the flames was sweltering…and yet somehow, Rei's expression still gave him a chill. Partially because she was right; he had often contemplated shifting behind her and attacking her injured limbs…but he couldn't bring himself to do so.

I mean, come on! Her instructions had been tantamount to an open invitation to strike her wounds! He couldn't bring himself to do that, even if he was unlikely to further damage her. It just…wasn't proper!

"Incompetence can be remedied with a sufficient degree of training," continued the Sergeant, interrupting Shinji's thoughts. "A mentality lacking the will to do what is necessary…is not so simple."

"What are you talking about? Start making sense!" yelled Shinji, growing frustrated by Ayanami's cryptic mannerisms and condemning tone.

"For what reason do you ignore such a simple method of completing your objective? You could've ended our session quickly."

"I know that."

"And yet you haven't."

"I know."

"Would you be equally unwilling to strike an Angel with a similar weakness?"

"…what."

"It is a legitimate question. These sessions are meant to condition and prepare you for piloting the Evangelion. Your reactions here will provide an indication of how you'll react in battle against the Angels."

…what. Shinji couldn't help being so incredulous. Was Ayanami really drawing a parallel between this 'spar' and an actual Angel battle? "…but…it's not the same."

The Sergeant frowned; although it was slight, Shinji thought that she actually looked offended. "It is a reasonable facsimile."

"NO IT'S NOT!" shouted Shinji, frustrated by how deliberately obtuse the girl was being. She had to be deliberate; she couldn't seriously be thinking that this situation was the same as an Angel battle…

"Do you presume to know what it means to be a Pilot?" asked Ayanami, genuinely curious as to what Ikari's answer was. Her opinion of his mental faculties had fallen, since he apparently couldn't see the similarities between this sparring session and a battle with an Angel. Even so…she wanted to hear his thoughts. "Do you believe that you know what it means to be a Pilot?"

"…well…" Shinji considered the craziness he had dealt with all day; not just with training, but with school as well. Was he expected to deal with that every single day? It was possible…hopefully it wasn't true, but Shinji wouldn't be surprised. Anything his father was involved in had a tendency to get crazy. Were Pilots expected to handle Tokyo-3 with no qualms? Maybe…but that's not it. At least, it wasn't all of it. "I don't know what you think a Pilot is supposed to be. I won't ask either…because I might not agree."

Rei arched an eyebrow. What does he mean by that? All Pilots endured the same trials and tribulations. Thus, they would have to share some qualities; was Ikari really that daft to think otherwise?

"However…what I told you before is still true." Shinji clenched his bo staff tightly, staring resolutely at the First Child. "I didn't come here just to run away." His nostrils twitched and his legs flexed. "I can promise you that much!" A frustrated growl emerged from Shinji's throat as he charged forward, body protesting at the sudden movement. "I WON'T RUN AWAY!"

The Sergeant quietly acknowledged the boy's words, almost uncaring of his charge. His words had some merit, true…but they most certainly weren't enough. Even common infantry knew that it was pointless to run (unless it involved a tactical retreat, but that was neither here nor there) when facing the enemy…and grunts as a whole were hardly suitable for piloting the Evangelions. "Admirable…" She focused on Ikari, who was preparing a thrust. "…but inadequate."

The thrust was parried. In a seamless move, the Sergeant repositioned her staff at the crook of Shinji's jaw, applying just enough force to flip him over. The young boy gasped as he landed on his side, cringing as Ayanami lightly rested the tip of her pole over his Adam's apple. "If you try to behave similarly as you have done with me, you won't last against the Angels."

Shinji was still, trying to regain his breath. "Most likely..." His blue eyes settled on Ayanami's, oddly lucid despite the beating he had just endured. "…but you're not an Angel, Sergeant Ayanami."

Rei couldn't help but blink; of course she wasn't an Angel. How is that relevant? thought the blue-haired Sergeant, trying to ascertain why Ikari believed this to be significant. For all intents and purposes, she was the enemy; Ikari should be acting the same way-?

"That will be enough for now, Sergeant."

Those words were accompanied by the dimming of flames; both Shinji and Rei glanced towards the faux boulder. Standing there, gloved hand gripping the valve, was none other than Gendo Ikari. Misato and the rest of her team had gathered around the arena, having used the terrain to get a better view of Shinji's beatdown at Ayanami's hands…but they were invisible as far as the Pilots were concerned.

Rei retracted her bo staff, standing at attention. "Sir!"

"At ease, Sergeant." Gendo quietly walked into the ring, gazing quietly at the bedraggled form of his son. After a few moments, he turned towards Misato. "You know Lieutenant Colonel, when I arranged for you to train Shinji, this isn't quite what I had in mind."

Misato Katsuragi nervously smiled. "Eheheheh…is that so, Professor Ikari?"

Gendo shrugged. "Not that the idea of a climactic spar in the middle of a ring of fire is disagreeable, but I was expecting something different for my son's first training session."

Shinji could practically hear Handel's Hallelujah chorus echo through his head. Being a cello player, a former music club member (and most likely soon-to-be, once he got around to investigating the school clubs), and an enthusiast for classical music, this was entirely justified. After all, this was absolute proof that there was a light at the end of the tunnel, that only better things awaited him. The somewhat bashful looks on the faces of Misato and her team members only cemented the fact that almost everything that had happened today was wrong! It was one of the most glorious realizations ever.

Rei, on the other hand, was rather perturbed. She had not expected the Professor to be displeased with her training methodology; despite his personal approval of the idea, it was apparently ill-suited for the Third Child. Ergo, it was partially her fault – since the Lieutenant Colonel and her team were also the target of the Supreme Commander's ire – that training had gone awry. This must be rectified. "My apologies sir. I did not intend for Ikari's training session to-"

"It doesn't matter, Sergeant," interrupted Gendo, halting the girl's self-recrimination. "It was a simple mishap. I'll see to it that the training sessions are restructured; in the meantime, you're all dismissed." He pulled a water bottle out of his cloak and handed it to his son; as Shinji greedily sucked down on the water, the Professor calmly pulled a small plastic bag out of his cloak and opened it.

Moments later, Randall – having been hiding behind the nearest boulder – pounced into the open, coming to a submissive halt in front of Gendo. The Supreme Commander waved the bag in place as he spoke. "You want the catnip, yes?"

Randall's purring said it all.

"Take me and my son back to headquarters, and you will have some."

Randall obediently grabbed Gendo with one arm and Shinji in the other before vaulting off towards NERV HQ on both legs. Rei watched them depart with some measure of remorse, if only because she was still disappointed by her inability to satisfy the Supreme Commander.

Once Randall and his 'passengers' out of sight, Misato turned towards her team members, her bashful look replaced with a satisfied smirk. "All right then! Mission accomplished!"

Remorse was replaced by confusion. Rei Ayanami's eyes widened a fraction at the suddenly ebullient men and women. Wait…why are they so pleased?

"I tell ya, Ikari's not one to cross," admitted the Sniper, a wary tone in his voice. "He got the kid's reaction and mentality down pat. Even if the lad wasn't planning on leaving before, there's no way he'll leave now."

The Professor said that the training session did not go according to plan.

The Scout laughed. "Gotta tell ya, the kid's got spunk. Didn't matter how much Cute Bruiser here kept pounding him, he kept on goin'!"

So why are they celebrating?

"Speak for yourself," grumbled Shiori Aoba, her apparent cheer from earlier gone. "He could keep on going, but it wasn't until his little spar with the Sergeant that I saw anything resembling a spine. For a while there, I thought he might've been a eunuch."

Misato rolled her eyes, her expression both exasperated yet good-natured. "You probably don't remember, but even teenagers can be shy. I mean, you practically stuffed his head into your boobs; he looked like he was about to pass out!"

"I'm not saying that I didn't appreciate the opportunity to freak him out," replied Lunatic, holding her hands up in defense. "I don't know. I guess I might've been expecting something closer to his old man."

Why are they acting so cavalier about our failure?

The Spy took a small puff on his cigarette, still feeling antsy after his earlier scuffle with Lowrie. "The boy's mental state will only improve once the 'scholastic situation' returns to normal next week. For all his eccentricities, Gendo Ikari is a master manipulator."

"It has suddenly occurred to me!" exclaimed the Heavy. "Just imagine if little boy had met OLD BOSS."

A rowdy chorus of whoops and hollers erupted from Misato and her team, save for Shiori and the Soldier. Shiori because she was not technically part of 'Misato's team'; her association with Misato was through Section 2. The Soldier, on the other hand, was stoic, calmly saying, "The little maggot would not have survived."

He meant this in all seriousness.

The Engineer was quick to agree. "Man, that's a good point. For a kid like that, meeting Hale would've been like meeting an Angel, face-to-face!"

"I vould not haff enough suppliess for such a zing!" exclaimed the Medic, a fond smile on his face.

Why do they seem so satisfied about our failure?

Misato wiped a happy tear from her eye, fond nostalgia currently gripping her. "Yeah, good times…well, all this craziness has made me hungry AND thirsty." With a dramatic finger jab into the air, the Boss exclaimed, "You know what that means!"

"TO DA BARS!" roared the Demoman as he took off running towards the nearest surface lift, a joyous bounce to his steps.

The Pyro let off an irritated grunt before following Tavish DeGroot, shouting, "Now wait up you crazy Scotsman, it's my turn to pick where we eat!"

Lieutenant Aoba and the rest of Misato's team began to follow, carrying on their own conversations as they did. Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi briefly turned around and gave the Sergeant a jaunty salute. "Thanks a bunch for your help, Rei! You were absolutely perfect!"

It was to Rei Ayanami's credit that she didn't falter or let her jaw drop. She instead saluted her superior officer – almost on impulse – and remained silent as the woman turned around, following the others as they set out to go bar hopping. Soon, the Sergeant was the only one standing in the training grounds, still as a statue.

Needless to say, her outward stoicism did not match her confounded thoughts. "I…do not understand." She would have to speak with the Supreme Commander at the nearest opportunity; apparently, the Operations Director, her team, and the Tactical Officer had gone completely insane. Unless…

Rei frowned; she recalled her discussion with Mr. Obimura earlier. Perhaps the Professor's actions were themselves another test for Ikari. That would also explain the somewhat contradictory behavior of the Lieutenant Colonel and her team; once the Third Child was gone, there would be no need to keep up the act. But if this is true, how was Ikari being tested? Furthermore, what was being tested? The Sergeant was having difficulty trying to solve this conundrum.

She settled for departing the training grounds, heading for NERV HQ. I will simply ask the Professor. He will have a definitive answer.

In the end, no matter what, Gendo Ikari had all the answers.

xxxx

/Misato's Apartment, Tokyo-3, Japan/

Shinji Ikari collapsed onto his bed, now clad in a blue T-shirt and gray shorts. No one could fault him for this, after the day he had experienced. "Mmmrgh…"

His father's 'rescue' had easily been the highlight of the day. Following a very minor debriefing – which he had highly appreciated – Shinji had been escorted home by Section 2 agents, and left to his own devices. In other circumstances, he might've tried to spend some more time with his father…but not now. He was spent.

So Shinji had proceeded to relax; after bathing and washing up, he prepared some homemade tempura – following a particular recipe of his Aunt Alicia's – and winded down by playing his cello. All things told, it was quite a pedestrian way to end a crazy day.

Shinji was just fine with that.

…maybe things will get better. His father's words had indicated as much; even now, he was still trying to digest everything that had happened. The whole day had had a…surreal quality. As he mused on everything - the school, the 'teachers', Kensuke and Toji, the training – his thoughts drifted toward the First Child. Rei…Ayanami…

What was with her? What exactly was her…perspective, so to speak? For that matter, why was she so freaking strong? Strange…she's so strange. He recalled his father's words from yesterday, regarding her…upbringing. What was life like for her?

Time was simultaneously fluid and murky as Shinji meditated on this matter; his thoughts drifted and followed no particular pattern, his exhaustion not aiding him at all. Active thinking transitioned to sleepy dreams…well, almost.

"Shinji-kun?"

The boy recognized Misato's voice. He didn't know the time, and he had no idea what she was up to. After today, he was not interested in finding out. Don't move…don't move…

"Hey…I know today was kinda crazy…" Her voice echoed from the door, lacking the boisterous quality that Shinji had already come to associate with her. "My team and I probably seem a little strange, but we all meant well."

Shinji didn't doubt that; their intentions had obviously been good. Their execution, however…

"I know our training wasn't exactly normal…but even with everything that's happening, you're still going forward." Beat. "Keep that feeling close…don't lose it…and I know you'll do fine." There was a brief, feminine giggle, as though the Lieutenant Colonel knew the answer to some mysterious question that only she knew. "Just remember that we're all proud of you."

The door slid shut. The bedroom was shrouded in darkness, leaving Shinji to himself and his thoughts.

Thoughts that were now more confused than before. There was now another facet to add to Misato's personality: kindhearted and uplifting. He really had no idea what to make of her. On top of Ayanami's behavior, this only served to confuse him further.

Man, Annette was right, thought Shinji as he decided to save his thinking for another day. I'll never understand girls.

xxxx

/Rooftop of Ayanami's Apartment, Tokyo-3, Japan/

12:57 AM.

Sergeant Rei Ayanami stared quietly at the moon above, the light reflecting off of her red irises. She was as still as a statue, contemplating and thinking about the Supreme Commander's words. At the same time, she was keeping track of the time, down to the precise second. She would need to get to bed soon, so her body could properly rejuvenate.

12:58 AM.

Yet…her mind was in no mood to rest.

xxxx

/Three Hours Ago/

/Keter, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"That is quite an accusation, Sergeant," remarked Sub-Director Fuyutsuki.

"I do not want to believe that the Lieutenant Colonel and her team have slipped in their mental faculties either," replied Rei Ayanami, not at all bothered by the cavernous expanse of the Professor's office. She had always been…curious about the images on the ceiling and floor, but they were irrelevant to both the Supreme Commander's job and her inquiry. "That is why I wish to know more of what your plan for today was. With all due respect, Professor."

Gendo Ikari was sitting at his desk, hands folded over his mouth; combined with his orange shades, they hid his expression entirely. Kozou Fuyutsuki, standing stoically beside the Supreme Commander, was equally grim-faced. In a sense, it gave off the impression that they were arbiters, calmly passing judgment on her.

The effect was slightly ruined by the open box of chocolate Pocky near the Professor's elbow, but that was just Gendo being Gendo.

"Not all people are like you, Rei," spoke Gendo. "You are very straight-forward, and your life is arranged in that manner. In some sense, it gives you an advantage; you do not falter in your duties, and you devote the entirety of your being to them."

"Yes sir," replied Rei, feeling a small measure of pride at the Supreme Commander's words. It was…good, to know that she excelled at her duty.

"However, life is rarely straight-forward. People are rarely straight-forward. In such scenarios, one must act in befitting manner. Case in point: my son." Gendo took a brief bite of Pocky, giving Ayanami time to ponder his words before continuing. "Despite our promises to each other, there is still a possibility that he might get…cold feet, so to speak. So Shinji's first day at school and his first day of training were arranged in a suitable manner to rectify this."

"How so? Pilot Ikari did not seem particularly pleased or enthused by the events of the day. Why would he be encouraged to stay?"

"Despite our time apart…I know my son. In particular, I know how he views me."

Ayanami briefly noticed a subtle contortion in the Sub-Director's features, something that was impossible for human eyes to catch; it was a testament to both Kozou Fuyutsuki's control and Rei Ayanami's senses. He seemed…upset, or perhaps disappointed. Have I done something wrong? Or perhaps he is…displeased with the Professor? It would not be an unfamiliar occurrence for the Sub-Director to exhibit irritation with the Supreme Commander, though she could never understand why.

"The way in which I ended today's training was to serve as the boy's lifejacket. Even though he's well aware of my own eccentric behavior, I'm a known quantity. Tokyo-3, thus far, has been one bizarre event after another." Gendo paused for dramatic effect. "My son is now convinced that I will make things 'easier' for him. That, Sergeant Ayanami, is why I ordered the Lieutenant Colonel and her team to act in such a manner, why I had most of the school faculty absent; now, not even the Angels will be enough to make him leave."

"…if you say so, Professor," replied Rei, still not quite sure what to make of the Professor's answer. True, it was a sufficient explanation for the day's events – and it reassured her that Katsuragi and her team were not guilty of insubordination – but it still left one thing unanswered. "Why was I not informed of this plan?"

Gendo chuckled, as if amused by the question. "Because I know you, Sergeant Ayanami. The plan was more effective with you in the dark; 'need to know', so to speak. You performed quite well."

"I understand." So the Professor wasn't disappointed with her. That was a relief.

"Is there anything else, Ayanami?" quietly inquired Fuyutsuki.

"I have no further questions, sir."

Gendo nodded. "Then you may be dismissed, Sergeant."

The young girl saluted. "Sir!" She gripped at her crutches and turned around, heading towards the door.

However, Gendo wasn't quite done. "Rei."

The girl paused, bewildered by the Supreme Commander. Hadn't she been dismissed? "Sir?"

"What's your opinion of the Third Child?"

…how should I respond? There were a number of dimensions to the Third Child; physical attributes, mentality, his performance during training, his reaction to the events of the day…they were a number of things she could say. "…he…is in need of more work. I do not have a conclusive opinion yet."

"…very well then. That is all."

"…yes sir." Sergeant Ayanami hobbled out, her confusion now returning for entirely different reasons.

xxxx

1:00 AM.

Sergeant Ayanami headed towards the rooftop access door; there would be time to ponder the Professor's words tomorrow…as well as the confusing nature of the Third Child. Patience, Ayanami; there is no rush. You have plenty of time.

xxxx

/The Next Day/

/September 23, 2015/

/Shores of Sagami Bay, Japan/

It had taken some time. Shamshel recalled how Sachiel had encountered immediate resistance upon its [awakening/rising/manifestation] in these waters. During that event, which had taken close to an hour and half in the Lilim timescale, the Light of Sachiel's Soul had been [bright/encompassing/visible]. Somehow, the Lilim had known.

[Armed/fortified/sustained] with the [knowledge/experiences/perceptions] of the Third Angel and [INDECIPHERABLE], the Fourth Angel elected to [quell/suppress/hide] the Light of its Soul. Perhaps the [creations/children/progeny] of LILITH would be unable to mount their considerable defenses this time around.

I AM HERE.

May you be [successful/triumphant] in finding LILITH.

The Fourth Angel emerged from the waters of Sagami Bay, unleashing the [shield/veil/warmth] that was the Light of its Soul. It was twice as long as Sachiel had been tall, and its body was serpentine in nature. Bony appendages could be seen in pairs along the torso, sharing characteristics of both ribs and centipede legs. The front of the Angel expanded like a cobra's hood, with two black 'eyespots' donning the back. Right at the junction between the hood and the body, there was a pair of limbs that seemed like a series of triangles, joined at the vertices and shrinking indefinitely in area with each new triangle. However, there was one feature that Fourth shared with the Third: a beaked, bony mask nestled in the space between the hood and the body, and a giant red core situated in the torso beneath the mask.

Shamshel took to the air towards Tokyo-3.

Simultaneously, alarms blew.

xxxx

/NERV-1, Geofront, Tokyo-3/

Klaxons wailed and lights flashed as the MAGI detected the AT Field. The voice of HEROD echoed through the speakers, rousing NERV into action.

"ALERT! An AT Field has been detected! Blood pattern has been confirmed as type Blue; the Fourth Angel is en route to Tokyo-3!"

xxxx

To be continued…

Next time…

Episode 6: ENEMIES (The One who Endures)

xxxx

(Incoming Angel, next time!)

 

[Ultra Sonic 007]

The mind of [INDECIPHERABLE] calmly [recognized/perceived/monitored] the events being experienced by Shamshel. Let us see how the Lilim fare.

SO; OUR [EQUALS/KIN/SIBLINGS] ARE [AWAKENING/RISING/MANIFESTING].

[INDECIPHERABLE] mentally chuckled at the booming voice, which had abruptly [manifested/emerged/roared] from the void. I see they have released you from your imposed sleep, [INDECIPHERABLE].

THEY HAVE CONCLUDED THEIR CURRENT EXPERIMENT. THEY CONTINUE TO [REFINE/DISTILL/AUGMENT] THE…[HYBRIDS/LESSERS].

You sound [displeased/irritated].

I PERMIT THEIR [FOOLISHNESS/HUBRIS/FUMBLING] ONLY BECAUSE YOU PERMIT IT, FOR THE [WILL/MENTALITY/MEMORIES] OF OUR [CREATOR/FATHER/SOURCE] LIE WITH YOU.

It is still incomplete. What I do [remember/possess] of ADAM's [will/mentality/memories] leads me to believe that He possessed some measure of…[interest/fascination/curiosity] regarding the Lilim.

THE ETERNAL [CONFLICT/SCHISM/SEPARATION] OF THE FRUIT OF KNOWLEDGE AND THE FRUIT OF LIFE STILL PERSISTS. I AM AWARE OF THIS MUCH; WAS OUR [CREATOR/FATHER/SOURCE] OF A DIFFERENT OPINION?

I cannot say. Not at this point in time.

DID HE [INTERACT/SPEAK/COOPERATE] WITH [INDECIPHERABLE]?

I believe so. The Lilim of SEELE seem to be of the opinion that ADAM and LILITH were, at the very least, mutually diplomatic. The mere idea somehow unnerved both Angels; it was simultaneously [tantalizing/exciting] and [horrifying/chilling]. Incomplete as they were, they did not know why.

SEELE. The thunderous voice let loose an amused chuckle across the ether. THEY MEDDLE WITH THAT WHICH THEY DO NOT UNDERSTAND. THEY BELIEVE US TO BE [CONTAINED/IMPRISONED/ENSLAVED].

Regardless of how much control they believe to have over us, we must [cooperate/coexist] for the immediate future. The location of our [Creator/Father/Source] is still hidden, unknown. Until we ascertain the whereabouts of ADAM, we must work on their level. Remember…they've already felled one of us.

…SO BE IT, TABRIS. I WILL CONTINUE TO PLAY ALONG WITH THE LILIM'S [GAMES/MACHINATIONS/SCHEMES].

Do not worry, Zeruel. Once we find ADAM, we can end this charade.

A raucous sound erupted, rife with anticipation. I EXPECT NOTHING LESS.

xxxx

Episode 6: ENEMIES (One Who Endures)

xxxx

/Misato's Apartment, Tokyo-3, Japan/

The sliding door slammed into the frame.

"SHINJI! WAKE UP! AN ANGEL'S HERE!"

Shinji Ikari resisted the urge to twitch as he heard Misato dash back into her room. I still feel so sore…

Apparently, the Angels weren't that understanding, since it had been less than three days total since the last attack. Were they going to attack this frequently?

…I can't worry about that now. There was no point to it; fretting about things he couldn't change would only make things worse. Focus only on what you can do now…focus on why you're here. Piloting the Evangelion. Stopping the Angels.

Preventing Third Impact.

Despite the injuries to his body, his spirit was willing enough to make up for it.

A minute later, Misato burst back into Shinji's room, clad in the same uniform she had worn the day he had arrived in Tokyo-3 – a red jacket and a brown dress that went down to her thighs. "You ready?"

Shinji settled for nodding, not quite trusting his voice at the moment.

Misato smiled, pleased at the boy's determination. "Good boy." She grabbed him by the hand and yanked him forward, heading towards the wall beside the kitchen refrigerator. Shinji barely had time to make note of the current time – 6:21 AM – before Misato spoke. "Pen-Pen's already headed down into the Geofront, so he'll be able to buy us some time with the P2 System." She flipped open a panel along the side of the refrigerator, revealing a keypad. After inputting the code, a brief chime sounded before the wall slid open, revealing a cylindrical elevator…with the key difference of several strap-in vests.

"Okay Shinji, buckle up and hang on tight!"

The Third Child obediently did so; not quite understanding the purpose of the vests, but still too tired to question or argue. "Okay Misato-san…what now-?"

"Just try and enjoy the ride!" exclaimed the Lieutenant Colonel as she slammed a big red button on the elevator panel. Moments later, the doors slid shut, and magnetic rails practically shot the elevator down into the Geofront.

If nothing else, Shinji was definitely awake by the time the ride ended twelve seconds later, if only because of his screaming on the way down.

xxxx

The Fourth Angel was somewhat [intrigued/disappointed/amused] by the defenses of the Lilim. Patchwork collections of potential energy, arranged in layered grids and defensive patterns, stood between it and the Black Moon. Potential energy shifted in form as the Angel approached, unleashed by the Lilim.

The serpentine Shamshel, flying serenely above the hills of Japan, was untouched. The Light of its Soul would permit no [intrusion/pain/malevolence] against its form.

THESE [DEFENSES/WEAPONS/TOYS] ARE NOT WHAT FELLED [INDECIPHERABLE]. Explosions blossomed in midair about the Angel's body, never touching, never harming. WHERE IS THE [WEAPON/CREATURE/ENTITY] [COMPARABLE/EQUAL/CONGRUENT] TO US?

As the red serpent proceeded towards Tokyo-3, no expense was deemed too high to stop its approach. Missiles, rockets, armor-piercing shells…all were shrugged off.

It was at this point that the Defender Gundams emerged.

A majority of them proceeded to open fire upon the Angel from afar, whilst a small group of a dozen mecha towed a steel cable. It was a kilometer long and one foot thick; clutching it tightly, this small squad of Gundams shot forward, weaving about and around the seemingly oblivious Angel. The idea was solid; once the Angel was ensnared, dozens of Gundams would grab hold of both ends and attempt to drag it down.

If only.

A [WORTHLESS/CURIOUS/QUEER] GESTURE.

Sparks flashed from the tip of the Angel's twin limbs, the series of triangles lighting up pink. Within a second, paper-thin ribbons of light emerged, lashing out at the cable and slicing it to pieces.

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"Well, that's a new one," dryly remarked Fuyutsuki.

Gendo was silent at the sight being transmitted to the Operations Deck; an energy weapon for melee combat. Razor sharp. "It would most likely take an AT Field to withstand that." Having said that, the Professor turned his attention towards the technicians and operations crew further below; they were in a tizzy.

And rightly so; never in their darkest nightmares had they believed another Angel would attack mere days after the Third. The refurbishing of the city's rearmaments had not been finished, and the repairs to Unit-01 were nowhere near complete. Section 3 was a warzone, with maintenance working as quickly as possible to attach supplemental plating to Unit-01's armor. Dr. Akagi was shouting up a storm, teeth clenched tightly on a cigar. The chaos fed itself, seeming to grow over time as desperation gripped NERV-1.

Naturally, the Supreme Commander felt that he needed to break the tension.

With utmost casualness, he cycled through the files on his terminal, opened up his private playlist, and selected a song to play over the intercom.

"AIN'T NOTHING BUT TUTTI FRUITY! GET ON THE FLOOR, IF YOU GOT THAT BOOTY!"

Every single employee in the Geofront came to a screeching halt, their panic swept aside by sheer bewilderment.

Gendo cut the song and took his opportunity, speaking into the terminal's open mic. "Enough with this panic!" His voice carried throughout NERV-1; it was calm, and authoritative."The Fourth Angel is coming, and we're the only ones who can stop it. I need everyone to be at their best for this operation." A dramatic pause. "Now, to your stations!"

Orders were orders. The command structure was in place, and a sense of ease set in. Everyone went about their tasks in a more controlled fashion, intent and focus in their every move.

Kozou looked wryly at his old protégé. "Not that I'm complaining…but booty music? Seriously?"

The Professor shrugged. "It worked, didn't it?"

xxxx

"…what was that?"

"Booty music!"

"…my father?"

"Got it in one!"

Shinji sighed.

Further down in the depths of NERV-1, Misato was escorting Shinji to the locker rooms. "Okay, according to Ritsky's alert message, there should be a techie waiting for us with your Plug Suit."

Shinji impulsively shuddered at the memory of how he had gotten his…'measurements'. He passively grunted in affirmation to hide his discomfort. In the back of his head, he wondered if he should be feeling more apprehensive about how this was the second time in less than a week that he was being asked to not only pilot a giant war machine, but to use it against a gigantic creature not of this world.

The rest of him roared that he was still too weary from yesterday, and that it was best to NOT wonder.

Finally, a rather unassuming man – clad in the standard beige uniform of NERV – waved them down. "Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi, ma'am!"

"You have the package?"

The Section-1 techie reached down towards the nearby bench, opening a plastic parcel and pulling out what Shinji could only assume was the
'Plug Suit'.

…that thing is way too big for me.

He recognized the blue material, which now bore colored strips of black paint along the sides and arms, the bottom of the soles, and the sternum. Odd, form-fitting machinery had been welded to the upper body, slick white metal countered by strange, angular protrusions along the ribs.

However, it wasn't his size. Not even close.

Misato grabbed the Plug Suit around the neck collar, stretching it out by at least a meter. "Feet first through the neck." She handed it to Shinji and reoriented him towards the men's locker room. "Take off your clothes before putting it on." Right before the door closed behind him, Misato added, "That includes the underwear!"

Even through the metal door, she could still hear Shinji's impulsive 'grk'.

The Lieutenant Colonel turned towards the techie and promptly dismissed him. Moments later, the Supreme Commander's voice spoke through her hidden earpiece. "Katsuragi."

"Yes sir?"

"Is the First Child en route to Unit-01?"

"He's putting on his Plug Suit now sir. We should be ready in five minutes!"

"Be quick about it. The Angel's already within one mile of Tokyo-3."

"Understood, Professor!"

It was at that moment that Shinji trudged out of locker room, looking absolutely ridiculous; the Plug Suit was all wrinkled, with multiple folds sagging out along his frame. "You know, I should feel more upset that I went through all that hassle with Dr. Akagi for this. How is this supposed to help me pilot?"

Misato smiled, having seen how Rei's Plug Suit functioned. Without saying a word, she grabbed Shinji's right wrist, holding it up in front of his face. There was a small, circular switch of sorts. "Twist," She twisted it three-hundred and sixty degrees clockwise. "Push," She depressed it by about an inch with her index finger. "Then twist back." Two pi radians counter-clockwise. "And that's how you do it; repeat the process if you want to get it off."

Before Shinji could say anything, a distinct whirr could be heard from the machinery along his torso.

Zhuup!

"GACK!" Shinji yelped as the folds flattened, the synthetic material seemingly shrinking to meld with his form. What had once felt like obtrusive plastic now felt like spandex…or perhaps a slimmer version of the leotard that his cousin had made him wear once for a school play. "It's…weird…" It was tight, yes, but not intrusively so; it was so form-fitting that the Plug Suit might as well have not been there at all. "I mean…" He flexed his arms and legs, getting a feel for the material. Surprisingly, despite how tight it was, it didn't strain against his body.

An accurate term to describe the Plug Suit would be 'second skin'.

"Now you need to get to the Evangelion." Misato affixed the A10 nerve connectors on his head, simultaneously pushing him into the locker room. "There's an access elevator that connects the locker rooms to various levels. It'll take you right to the Entry Plug!" Given that there was no one else in the men's locker room, Misato's nonchalance didn't bother him. The child watched as the purple-haired officer accessed a wall-mounted touchscreen, accessing one of the few pre-selected options: Lymph Node-A. "Get a move on, we're on a tight schedule!"

Right after Misato practically shoved him into the elevator, she gave him one last hug from behind. "Good luck, Shinji-kun."

The doors shut quietly, leaving Shinji to stare at the floor, still utterly vexed by Misato's mannerisms. Even in the middle of an alert, she still has time for a hug. It was…comforting, he supposed.

...and why was he actually bothering to question it?

A groan slipped past the boy's lips as he leaned against the elevator doors, still feeling the exhaustion from yesterday's training. Would I be more prone to panicking if I wasn't tired?

It was something to think about. Could it be…had his father planned this…?

xxxx

Gendo Ikari did not sneeze, despite the folklore revolving around the idea of sneezing when someone talked about you (colloquially called the 'Quantum Sternutation Effect' by Dr. Akagi). After all, he was the Supreme Commander of NERV; somewhere, every minute of every day, SOMEONE was talking about him.

By now, he was immune to QSE.

xxxx

…nah. There's suspicion, and then there's paranoia.

Then again, there was a fine line between suspicion and paranoia.

The elevator doors opened, revealing the vast chamber within which Unit-01 stood. Emptied of the red coolant, Shinji could see how far down the room extended. The various technicians of Section-3 were rapidly vacating the area, having been forced to abandon their repairs due to the Angel's arrival. There were various sections still showing scorch marks from the Third Angel's kamikaze attack; portions that had needed to be removed (such as the cracked breastplate) had been replaced by gray armor that looked somewhat bulkier than Unit-01's normal, customized shell. All in all, it gave the Evangelion a rather…derelict look.

That a giant mecha/cyborg/robot/whatever could look destitute was oddly impressive.

Shinji walked towards the gantry that led to the Entry Plug, almost moving on auto pilot. It helped, being able to move without having to think about what was about to happen. Which was odd; the more he thought about it objectively, the more he should've been concerned. He was about to face another Angel! Unit-01 was still undergoing repairs! Tokyo-3's defenses were nowhere near full strength after the last Angel's attack!

So why was he so damned calm?

The Entry Plug swiveled into place. LCL filled the plug, and lights flashed as the neural connections between Shinji and the Evangelion were activated.

And then there was peace.

A warm blanket seemed to smother Shinji...a light reminder of benevolent comfort before receding slightly. Instead of covering him, it now seemed to hover over his shoulders, as if to say 'I will always be right behind you'.

In that instant, Shinji realized why he hadn't been panicking: this feeling.

On a subconscious level, he had understood that this is what was waiting for him. It was hard to describe; he couldn't hear any words…more like sensations or feelings from whatever was left of his mother in the core of the Evangelion.

Nonetheless, it was endlessly reassuring.

i'm here

I know.

just making sure you know

What reason did he have to fear?

"Sync ratio at sixty-two percent!"

Shinji impulsively gripped the controls. "I'm ready!"

"Begin launch sequence!"

The distinct sensation of movement throbbed through Unit-01's body as it moved to the launch pad, and Shinji's by proxy. They seemed more acute now that he wore the plug suit.

Locks gripped onto the Evangelion's legs, prompting Shinji to grit his teeth.

As before, Gendo theatrically roared, "LAUNCH THE EVANGELION!"

And the battle was joined.

xxxx

/Shelter 19A, Tokyo-3, Japan/

Kensuke Aida moaned, feeling absolutely miserable. "I wanna see it…"

"Man, shut up," muttered Toji Suzuhara, huddled beside his friend in the corner of the shelter.

The shelters of Tokyo-3 were designed to maximize space: essentially metallic cubes buried underground, the shelters were staggered throughout the outskirts of the city, connected to various junctions throughout Tokyo-3 proper by tunnels and magnetic rail cars that operated through the third and fourth armor layers of the Geofront. For those already living on the outer edges of the city, a safe house was never more than a short walk away. For those who lived in downtown Tokyo-3 – i.e. those whose homes actually retreated into the Geofront – their shelters were the retracted buildings, though they had the option of evacuating to the sanctuaries outside the city like everyone else.

Personally, Toji preferred shelters outside the city. He just got the jitters thinking about the fact that his shelter was suspended in the air by…well, by science.

Kensuke preferred shelters outside the city because he was less likely to be stepped on if he snuck out of a safe house in the downtown area.

Fortunately, there were plenty of shelters, so the feeling was akin to being stuck in a busy airport instead of being stuck in a can of sardines. The warm lighting and choice of colors – blue walls with white ceilings and green floors – helped in easing the mood of the shelter's current inhabitants.

The presence of at least four suited Section 2 personnel for each shelter also helped in preventing panic.

Toji palmed his forehead, trying to ignore his friend's whining. "Sometimes I wonder about you."

"But the Evangelion's about to fight an Angel! I. WANT. TO. SEEEEEE."

"Okay then, how ya gonna get out?" grumbled Toji. "They've got two of those NERV agents at the door-"

"Section 2."

"Whatever. They're always standing at attention there. Then beyond them is another pair of doors, which only open inward during an emergency. Then there's another pair of doors beyond that that are monitored by those computers that run the city!"

"MAGI."

"Whatever. Basically, your only way of getting out is when the battle's over."

The bespectacled Gendotaku whimpered.

"Man, stop whining." The one saving grace for Toji was that his father had been working at NERV at the time the alert had gone out – so he was safer than practically everyone here – and that his sister was currently mingling with her friends elsewhere in the shelter, happily passing away the time. So long as Ai has friends to play with, don't matter what's happening…she'll barely notice it. "If you really want to film the giant robot duking it out with the Angel, ya shouldn't even come to the shelter."

"…but I came here with my mom. If I tried to go elsewhere during an alert like this, I'd be…like, grounded forever!"

Toji gave the boy a wry grin. "Then sucks to be you."

Kensuke groaned out of exasperation as he slumped down, calmly paying attention to the sounds of battle above. His eyes briefly flickered towards the pair of doors on the other side of the shelter. "Man…why'd they have to build the restrooms in here…?"

"Huh?"

"If they hadn't built them in here, I could've asked for permission to go take a leak…and then it would be a dash for freedom!"

"Yes, because building a restroom outside the shelter is genius!" Toji shot his friend an exasperated glare. "Seriously dude, that's retarded. What kind of moron would design a shelter like that?"

"ACHOO!"

Toji and Kensuke flinched as the mustachioed man next to them sneezed. "You okay, Anno-sensei?" asked Kensuke.

"Yes boys, I am fine," mumbled the homeroom teacher of Year 1, Group E. "Damn allergies…"

Needless to say, not everyone was immune to QSE.

Toji and Kensuke returned to their silent ruminations, ever aware of the colossal conflict occurring outside. "…say Toji."

"What?"

"You think Ikari's gonna be okay out there?"

Toji briefly thought about the boy named Shinji. Mostly unassuming, a little apologetic…but he had bravely gone off to face the horrific beast that was Ayanami.

Okay, maybe 'bravely' was stretching it, but at least he hadn't run away like any sane person would. "We can only hope. I just hope he doesn't break my apartment again."

"How altruistic of you."

"What? I'm serious! We still haven't gotten the furniture back into place yet!"

xxxx

Shamshel [sensed/felt/perceived] Unit-01 before it reached the surface. AT LAST. The Light of the [weapon/creature/entity]'s Soul was quite substantial. I WILL [BREAK/END/SUNDER/ANNIHILATE] YOU AND PROCEED TO YOUR [CREATOR/MOTHER/SOURCE]. The defenses of the Lilim had abruptly ceased moments ago, as if in preparation for the arrival of their creation.

According to the local coordinate frame, the Fourth Angel had approximately four seconds to surmise the abilities of the Lilim's creation. It was enough time for Shamshel to [see/perceive/know] the Light of the Evangelion's Soul…to a certain extent. Its identity was muddled…mixed, nonsingular.

Curious. A [FRACTURED/INCOMPLETE/IMPURE] SOUL? OR PERHAPS A SYNTHESIS OF MANY?

It told the Angel enough, certainly: the [weapon/creature/entity] did not possess true mastery over the Light of its Soul.

A [TEST/TRIAL/EXPERIMENT] SHALL COMMENCE. Yes; that would do nicely.

Three seconds until the arrival of the Evangelion.

A ribbon of pink light lashed out, slicing through the foundations of the nearest skyscraper. Before it toppled over, the Angel's [limb/extension/hand] wrapped around the structure, looking rather gentle while doing so. Shamshel diverted the Light of its Soul, blanketing the building in a protective [coating/sheath/shell] of energy.

At that moment, the defenses of Tokyo-3 roared once more, unleashing bullets and rockets upon the serpentine form of the Fourth Angel.

Even with the Light of its Soul divided so, none of the armaments were capable of breaking through.

One second until the arrival of the Evangelion.

Quietly and calmly, the Fourth Angel's tentacle of energy snapped forward, flinging the skyscraper towards the outskirts of Tokyo-3. At such speed, the stress from shear alone would have destroyed the structure.

Clad in the Light of Shamshel's Soul, this was no issue.

Thus, Unit-01 emerged onto the surface just in time for a fifty-story skyscraper to smash into it at a speed of two hundred miles an hour.

An audible snap echoed through the city. The Evangelion – still locked into the launch platform that had just been broken by the sheer stress of the collision – fell to the ground, buried by the Angel's impromptu projectile.

A strange noise fluttered through the air, an odd hiss reverberating through a watery crypt. Melchior, Balthasar, and Casper would conclude that it was a side-effect of how the Fourth Angel's AT Field interacted with their plane of reality.

Herod would conclude that the Angel was laughing.

The sound abruptly ceased as the rubble burst forward, revealing a rising Unit-01. Battered though it was, the Evangelion was far from finished. The [weapon/creature/entity]'s eyes flashed moments before it slung a large piece of debris into the air.

A field of orange hexagons flashed into view, blocking what was left of the skyscraper.

The Evangelion had already delved into Tokyo-3, evading Shamshel's line of sight. Simultaneously, the defenses of the Lilim reactivated, peppering Shamshel with artillery, bullets, and rockets.

[POINTLESS/FUTILE/LAUGHABLE].

The ribbons of light lashed out, effortlessly slicing through the buildings standing between it and the Evangelion.

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"…you know, there's nothing stopping the Angel from tearing apart Tokyo-3," remarked Fuyutsuki, his dry tone masking his worry. They couldn't afford to have the city destroyed; the finances of restoring Tokyo-3's defenses notwithstanding, it would be a black mark on NERV's (largely self-professed) reputation as the 'sole protector of mankind against the Angels'.

Gendo grunted in affirmation.

Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi quickly opened a communications link with Unit-01's Entry Plug. "Shinji-kun!"

"Misato-san? What-GAH!" On the main screens, Unit-01 had just nearly been impaled by the Fourth Angel's ribbon, which was now slicing through the buildings standing between it and the Evangelion. "What do I do?"

"…long-range isn't going to do anything as long as the AT-Field of the Angel is still up." Misato inhaled, going over several plans in moments. "We need you to get into close quarters with the Angel."

"But what about those ribbon things?"

"Your AT-Field will provide some measure of protection," remarked Dr. Akagi, cigar smoke lingering about her face. "In any event, once the Eva's AT-Field counteracts that of the Angel, we'll be able to use conventional weaponry."

"And to help you out, we're sending you a new toy." The Operations Director turned towards the four Lieutenants manning the main consoles. "Aoba, set the defenses in Groups C and D to Beta configuration. Draw the Angel's attention away from Unit-01!"

"Roger!"

"Hyuga!" A smirk impulsively came to Misato's face. "Send up the progressive machete. Activate the communications beacon at Duct 12D so Shinji can get his new weapon!"

"Yes ma'am!"

Dr. Akagi chuckled, eyes darting from one screen to the next, taking in all information about the battle at a glance. "Yeeeees…a magnificent plan! The Fourth Angel may be long and of impressive girth, but we shall show that it's not size that counts, but how you use it! NYAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAA!"

The Ibuki Twins briefly stared at their immediate superior. "…"

Misato just looked at her old friend. "Er…Ritsuko?"

"What? We're utilizing the power of phallic symbolism to shame the Angel into submission!"

"…no. We're using the progressive machete because it can cause more damage than the progressive knife, and because Shinji hasn't had enough training with firearms."

"Ah, that does make sense." The blonde doctor took a long huff on the cigar, letting ashes fall to the floor. "…IGNORE ME!"

"Okay, I have the machete!"

This gave Misato a perfect excuse to ignore Ritsuko. "Okay Shinji-kun…you're going to have to attack. Get up close and personal, don't hold back!"

"Yes ma'am…okay…I'm moving out!"

Shiori Aoba couldn't help but grin at the sight of Unit-01 darting between the defensive platforms, progressive-machete clenched tightly in its right hand. You actually showed some spine against Ayanami yesterday…let's see if you've still got it.

The Fourth Angel stood tall amidst the defenses of Tokyo-3, AT-Field impervious to the artillery shells being fired at it. Twice as tall as Unit-01, the serpentine beast seemed unperturbed by NERV's armaments.

That's when Shinji broke out of cover, charging towards the fourth Angel.

The Angel's limb lashed out at high speed. The Evangelion's left arm snapped up, as if out of impulse.

The pink ribbon impaled the Evangelion's left arm through the bicep, continuing on through the shoulder and beyond, cutting through the umbilical cable.

Shinji's scream echoed through the speakers as his vitals spiked.

"SHINJI!" screamed Misato. "What's his current sync ratio?"

"Sixty-eight percent!" exclaimed Miyata. While not at a perfect one-to-one correspondence between a human's senses and that of the Eva, such an injury would still translate to a fair amount of mentally-induced agony.

"Unit-01's AT-Field…it's interacting with that of the Angel! The phase space is collapsing!" yelled Maya.

On the screens above, they saw Unit-01's eyes glow, coinciding with a growing growl from Shinji. The Evangelion's impaled arm flexed, the left hand actually gripping the pink ribbon…and yanked with all its might.

The Fourth Angel was pulled down, its colossal form toppling over like a massive tree. With a mighty roar, Shinji swung the progressive-machete, slicing through the Angel's limb at the base. A thunderous sound erupted as the Angel crashed into the ground, cracks spreading from the impact site.

"Ha! Kickass!" exclaimed Aoba as the serpent's pink ribbon dissipated, the Angel's 'arm' now flailing uselessly on the city street.

That's when the Angel wrapped itself around the Evangelion with a sudden swiftness, as if it were a giant boa constrictor. The bony appendages along its underside latched onto Unit-01's face as the Angel's body began to compress. Shinji yelped as the sudden pressure forced him to drop the progressive-machete; warnings flashed over the screens as the Third Child struggled against the ever-increasing force of the Angel's constriction.

"…crap," growled Aoba.

"PSI is increasing rapidly! MAGI speculate that we have less than a minute until Unit-01 is crushed!" yelled Maya.

Dr. Akagi quickly ascertained some of the readings before turning to the Operations Director. "Misato, Unit-01's AT-Field is still canceling out the Angel's!"

Misato nodded. Gut check time. "Aoba, direct Groups C and E to attack the Angel! Concentrate fire away from Unit-01!"

"Roger!"

"Pen-Pen, get that Angel off of Shinji!"

"Wark."

On-screen, the command staff of NERV witnessed the Angel's head becoming lost in a flurry of artillery and rockets. The carmine-colored flesh of the creature bled and ruptured under the onslaught, even as its lone remaining limb lashed out, slicing through dozens of defense platforms. "Groups B and C are being cut down! They're now at thirty percent capacity! Twenty!" shouted Hyuga.

Misato gritted her teeth, noting that Shinji only had four minutes left before the Evangelion's batteries ran dry. Come on…!

xxxx

Pen-Pen calmly conducted his task with seamless grace. Dozens of Defender Gundams darted to and fro, peppering the prone Angel with bullets and explosive grenades. At the same time, he was directing the Gundams to blast away at a particular region of the Angel's body, around where Unit-01's arm was bound.

The ribbon lashed out. The penguin saw it coming through dozens of viewpoints, prompting his units to dodge accordingly. Foot by foot, the Angel's flesh gave way under the P2 System's coordinated assault, revealing more and more of the Evangelion.

A critical point was reached.

The Evangelion suddenly lurched, finally attaining enough leverage to grab at the Angel's serpentine body. The purple giant's legs flexed and shifted against the cracked pavement, gaining purchase as its hands slowly uncoiled the weakening Angel.

The roar of a young child burst over the intercoms as Unit-01 threw the beast into the air.

Pen-Pen let out a pleased trill. "Wark!"

xxxx

"Good boy, Pen-Pen! You okay Shinji-kun?"

"I'm…okay…Misato-san…" gasped Shinji, feeling decidedly not okay. Suffocation, constriction…it was as if a hand had wrapped around him and kept on squeezing and squeezing. Had it not been for Pen-Pen's sudden intervention (oh wow he was thinking casually about the fact that the penguin was piloting Gundams. Progress! Or apathy due to pain. Maybe the latter)-

don't think about it

His ribs felt sore. It hurt to breathe; were they broken? All on top of a pounding headache…

you're alive

"…I'm still alive," breathed the Third Child, the sensation of pain giving way to the omnipresent warmth in the Entry Plug. He briefly took note of the large timer imposed over his vision, reading '2:09:51', and rapidly decreasing.

they're here for you

"Well, we can't afford to let up. The Angel's not down yet!" Misato's voice took on a somewhat…anxious tone. The grin on her face only made it more obvious. "Time for the knockout blow! Hyuga, send up the minigun to Duct 8D! Maya, relay a path to Unit-01!"

"Roger!"

The trail of orange light superimposed itself over the shattered roadway, leading a few blocks away.

"Okay Shinji-kun, get going. I know you don't have a lot of experience with firearms yet, but I don't want to risk another close encounter like that. Once you get to Duct 8D, make sure to reconnect Unit-01 to the power grid!"

The severed power cord still flailing from his back was ejected automatically, landing on the pavement with a thud. Shinji ran as quickly as he dared, ignoring the brief hitches along his side. 'Minigun'…are they talking about…?

The side of Duct 8D slide away, revealing a massive minigun with a gray ammo drum and gunmetal gray barrels. Ah…that's right. He recalled yesterday's training with Misato, Lieutenant Aoba, and Mr. Kasparov. Olga. After connecting Unit-01 to a new umbilical cable (with a great deal of fumbling), he carefully unlatched the humongous weapon, holding it like he had held Sasha yesterday. Fortunately, piloting a giant cyborg made it easier to hold. And carry, for that matter.

"The Angel's AT-Field is shifting!" screamed Maya, the suddenness causing Shinji to jolt.

"Shinji-kun, LOOK OUT!"

At Misato's warning, Shinji impulsively turned around. The Fourth Angel now stood tall, its elongated body now marred and bleeding from NERV's coordinated defenses. Strangely enough, it looked…furious, despite the lack of any expressions.

The Angel's lone limb twitched and jerked before lashing out towards his face.

…so quick…

His perception slowed. Looking back, he wouldn't recall his thought processes during this moment, nor would he remember the moment lasting so long. However, the future could take care of itself; right now, in the present, Shinji's mind – long accustomed to insanity and lunacy due to the influences of his father and his upbringing – acted on impulse.

He could barely hear Miyata's shocked shout; 'Eighty-five…something.' Probably his sync ratio. Maybe that was supposed to be impressive.

All he would be able to say was that at one moment, the Angel was on the verge of decapitating him.

The next, a searing sensation soared from his mouth, driving away all distraction and leaving only a burning focus on the Fourth Angel.

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Quite frankly, this was a turn no one had expected.

"…did he just stop the Angel's attack with his mouth?" muttered Miyata, eyes glued to the screens.

Misato nodded in the affirmative, dumbfounded at the sight of Unit-01's jaws clamped down on the tip of the Angel's razor-sharp limb. Despite the efforts of the Angel, it could not wrench away, nor could it cut through the Evangelion's mouth. Shinji's pained growls echoed over the speakers…but he still held fast.

Professor Ikari calmly remarked, "Well. That's certainly using your teeth."

Shiori Aoba couldn't help but cackle.

Dr. Akagi quickly looked towards Maya and Miyata's consoles, her cigar now at half-length. "…the interactivity of their AT-Fields is well over the critical limit. The phase space is still down! Now's our chance!"

Misato snapped out of her reverie, immediately roaring, "SHINJI-KUN! OPEN FIRE!"

The Evangelion's fingers moved as Shinji's had the previous day during training. A press of the top trigger caused the six barrels to rotate, a droning rumble echoing through the air. The Angel continued its thrashing, trying to free itself from Unit-01's vice-like bite.

The Evangelion pressed down on Olga's right handle.

Hot metal spewed from six blazing barrels. The Fourth Angel could do nothing as it was eviscerated by a storm of bullets the size of minivans.

xxxx

Shamshel fell.

Bereft of its primary [weapons/identity/self-expression], the Angel could only retreat into the [warmth/veil/shield] of the Light of its Soul, in the aims of [healing/regenerating/purifying] its current [nature/form/existence].

Given how the Lilim's creature continued to advance, that seemed…unlikely.

YOUR [ARROGANCE/HUBRIS/NONCHALANCE] WAS YOUR DOWNFALL.

The thunderous voice erupted across the ether, drawing Shamshel's attention. ANOTHER [EQUAL/KIN/SIBLING]?

Yes Shamshel. Zeruel has been [awake/risen/manifest] almost as long as I. However, like me, Zeruel's current [nature/form/existence] has…limits. Conditions.

YOU THOUGHT TO SUCCEED WHERE SACHIEL FAILED. NOW YOU WILL SERVE ONLY AS ANOTHER [KILL/VICTIM/TROPHY] FOR THE LILIM.

I ONLY HAVE MYSELF TO BLAME. WHAT I FACED TODAY WAS NOT WHAT SACHIEL FACED. THE LILIM ARE [RESOURCEFUL/CRAFTY/DEVIOUS], AND THE ONE THAT IS [EQUAL/COMPARABLE/CONGRUENT] TO US IS STRONGER THAN WHEN IT FACED MY PREDECESSOR.

These [weapons/creatures/entities]…are called 'Evangelions' by the Lilim. Even now, my knowledge about their true [nature/essence] is limited, for they are each individual, and thus [separate/unique/mysterious].

THERE ARE MORE? Shamshel's limbs slowly regenerated, even as the Lilim's purple giant stood tall over its form. MORE THAN THIS ONE?

Yes.

WE WILL HAVE TO TAKE MEASURES ON BEHALF OF OUR [EQUALS/KIN/SIBLINGS].

WHEN THEY [AWAKEN/RISE/MANIFEST], THEY WILL BEAR DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF OUR [CREATOR/FATHER/SOURCE]. EVEN NOW, I SENSE THAT YOU, [INDECIPHERABLE], ARE OF GREATER MIGHT THAN I.

IT IS INCONSEQUENTIAL. I WILL MOVE WHEN I SEE FIT TO DO SO. YOUR [EXPERIENCES/KNOWLEDGE/PERCEPTIONS] WILL ONLY MAKE OUR TASK ALL THE EASIER.

The…'Evangelion'…withdrew a blade from its shoulder. It was the blade used against Sachiel.

MAY YOU BE MORE SUCCESSFUL THAN I.

The Light of the Evangelion's Soul [abridged/deadened/breached] that of Shamshel's, despite the Angel's efforts. The beaked, bony mask of Shamshel seemed to stare at Unit-01 with a measure of [acceptance/acquiescence/regret].

There was nothing it could do now.

You fought well, Shamshel…be at peace.

The blade pierced Shamshel's core, brutally severing the Angel's [mind/senses/awareness] from Tabris and Zeruel.

Our sibling is gone. All that Shamshel was will now return to the body of ADAM.

THERE WILL BE MORE CHANCES.

Indeed.

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Maya Ibuki kept a keen eye on the readouts as Unit-01 pierced the Angel's core with its progressive-knife. "AT-Field is diminishing…Pattern Blue has vanished! The Angel has been destroyed!"

Raucous cheers erupted throughout the Operations Deck, and for good reason. Not only had they defeated another Angel, but they had done so despite the fact that Tokyo-3 had not been at full operational capacity. Despite the massive damage inflicted by the Angel, they would live to fight another day.

The Supreme Commander calmly stood and departed the Operations Deck, tapping his earpiece as Fuyutsuki followed. "Katsuragi."

"Sir?"

"See to it that Shinji is delivered posthaste to Section 4. Unit-01 received quite a beating, and his sync ratio was…fairly high."

"Loud and clear, Professor!"

"Very good. You and the rest of NERV performed excellently today."

"Just doing our job, sir!"

"Continue to do so, and we'll survive this war." Gendo cut the link, still moving with purpose towards the nearest elevator that led to his office's floor. "Fuyutsuki…your opinion?"

The wizened man shrugged, a small smile on his face. "I have a fair number of opinions. Which one would you like?"

"I'm not…particularly choosy."

"Well, we're going to have a metric ton of paperwork to deal with regarding all of the damage done. It's possible that people will panic if they believe that another Angel attack is impending. We'll have to project an image of unwavering strength and confidence if we don't want people to flee Tokyo-3. We need Unit-00 repaired ASAP, because I don't think it's a good idea to have only one working Evangelion. We'll have to negotiate with the Defense Ministry, the UN, and the German government if we're going to get another Evangelion delivered, because I don't think two Evangelions are enough anymore. Your son is quite…tenacious, but I find his high sync ratio to be unsettling, especially given his lack of experience. The sheer amount of collateral damage from the battle will be giving NHIS a wonderful window to unveil their Jet Alone Project. I'd like a cup of coffee, I haven't had breakfast, and you're still certifiably insane."

"Complaints are not opinions."

The old teacher chuckled. "If you insist, Ikari. What are you going to do now?"

"I'll need to arrange a meeting with the old men regarding NHIS's impending demonstration." It was a shame that he couldn't personally congratulate his son for his fairly dramatic victory. "But first, I have a video to make." As he entered the elevator, he turned back towards Fuyutsuki. "Notify me if any difficulties emerge."

"Of course, Professor."

As the doors slid shut, Gendo Ikari rest lightly on his heels, mind winding back to the battle. Eighty-five percent sync ratio…and it's only his second sortie. True, they had projected the Third Child to eventually reach this level…but so soon?

Perhaps Yui really missed her son.

At this rate, his sync ratio will soon rival that of the Second Child. He would have to send the battle data to Pieter; his daughter would undoubtedly be interested in the footage of Unit-01 in combat with the Fourth Angel. Speaking of which… "Akagi."

"Sir?" answered Ritsuko Akagi.

"I take it you've already begun preparations for the cleanup?"

"Yes sir; Katsuragi's already directing Shinji on how to get back into the Geofront. Once Unit-01's cleared the surface, I'll send up the retrieval teams."

"Try and extract as much material as you can. Our top priority is the core; it's…surprisingly intact."

"My cigar's practically drenched from salivation. Once I get my hands on it…the world. Will. TREMBLE! And possibly quiver."

"Just try to keep occupational hazards to a minimum."

There was a defeated sigh. "Fine…if you insist. But I promise NOTHING!"

"Then I have nothing to worry about. Carry on."

xxxx

/Langley Residence, NERV-2, Berlin-2, Germany/

NERV's organizational nomenclature was dependent on two things: the ability to properly maintain and field an Evangelion, followed by order of construction. Since the branch in Tokyo-3 was the oldest – having originally been used as the primary facility for GEHIRN – it was dubbed NERV-1. The branch in Alaska, dedicated to weapons research and development, did not possess the infrastructure to maintain and field an Evangelion, so it was simply called NERV-Alaska.

Thus, we have NERV-2.

Germany's role in world affairs had grown following Second Impact, in no small part due to three things: the continued downsizing of the United Kingdom's global influence due to the flooding wrought by Impact, the rapid growth of its military during the Impact Wars, and the fact that it was the home country of GEHIRN, the predecessor of NERV. The organization had been established by the UN in the late 20th century, tasked with cutting edge research into the fields of metaphysical biology, cybernetics, autonomic computing, and, following the Katsuragi Expedition, Angelic biology. Through a number of public fronts such as the Artificial Evolution Laboratory, Sovereign Systems, and Rommel-Fujikawa Incorporated, the findings of this body had filtered into the public sphere slowly but surely. Shortly before the dissolution
of GEHIRN and its subsequent reformulation as NERV, its German headquarters in Braunschweig – to the west of Berlin and east of Hannover, high enough in elevation to have escaped the floods – had been converted into a large, cylindrical arcology that covered the whole city. Soon after NERV's existence had been made public, the German government – having, due to the flooding of Berlin, used Leipzig and then Dresden as temporary capitals – had designated Braunschweig as Berlin-2, the new capital of Germany.

Needless to say, it had its ups and downs for Pieter Langley. For one, the arcology was largely self-sufficient in terms of food, and water was in close enough proximity to Berlin-2 for supply to not be an issue. The presence of the German government meant that it wasn't…too difficult to acquire enough resources for any particular project that needed to be done.

On the other hand, it meant that politicians and bureaucrats were in close proximity. People who had to justify their expenditures to the voting public. Quite frankly, tensions had been getting high before the sudden emergence of the Third Angel. Complaints would go down even further once news about the Fourth Angel's attack became public knowledge.

I wish I could handle politicians the way Ikari does. Truly, it was a sad day when any aspect of that madman seemed admirable.

The brown-haired Commander of NERV-2 pushed those thoughts aside as he exited the elevator leading up to his home. His residence was essentially a modest penthouse standing atop one of the various skyscrapers reserved for NERV employees. It offered quite a view of Berlin- 2; German architecture from before the 21st century interspersed with modern aesthetics, offering a cultural mish-mash that was simultaneously jarring yet welcoming in its distinctiveness. There was still a soul to be found in this place, a unique character that Tokyo-3, for all its modernity and significance, lacked. Large lamps strapped to the roof of the arcology would emit artificial sunlight, and the arcology bore various slits that could open up to reveal the sky. The major landmarks that were within Pieter's immediate sight were the main offices
of NERV-2 – a large cube of solid gray that bore NERV's logo in red – and the towering Hydroponics and Aeroponics facilities. Even so, they were joined by the lights of countless other buildings, blanketing Berlin-2 in a wondrous light show.

After all, it was about one in the morning.

Commander Langley yawned as he entered his home, the creamy colors and warm lights offering a semblance of comfort after today. First there was the inspection of Unit-02, Unit-05, and the Mark 06…which got me in a handle with the technical staff…then there were the meetings with our liaisons to the Bundestag…oh Gott, and then the maintenance of the MAGI!

"Hi papa."

Langley stopped in his mental review, hands frozen around the buttons of his forest green jacket. His eyes fell upon the young eight-year old girl sitting at the wooden dinner table. "Mari Langley-Sohryu," grumbled Pieter; tired as he was, he was never too tired to put on his 'Daddy' voice. "Why aren't you in bed? You have school in the morning."

Mari looked at her father with tired blue eyes, her large turtle shell glasses resting limply on her nose. Hair the color of milk-chocolate hung limply on her shoulders, deprived of the ribbons and bands she wore during the day. Her pink pajamas were rather loose for her size, making the four-foot girl seem smaller than she was. The fact that her head was drooping made her seem even more diminished. "Cause big sister's still awake."

"…I believe I know why." His mental review of the day inadvertently resumed. And to top it all off, we receive word less than three hours ago that Tokyo-3 is under attack by the Fourth Angel. THAT bit of news had sent NERV-2 into a tizzy, prompting practically everyone to work overtime. They had been greatly relieved to hear of Unit-01's triumph; furthermore, the battle data that had been sent over would keep a number of the scientists working well into the morning. Pieter had opted to return home to get some sleep...and because he had received word that a copy of the battle data had been sent to the Second Child's computer. "What does that have to do with you being awake?"

"…cause she said we would have ice cream. And then she got this message on her computer, and then she got this weird look on her face and said that she had to do some work!" Mari's brief exclamation seemed to exhaust her, as she took a deep yawn moments later. "Ska's been weird…"

Pieter impulsively smiled at Mari's nickname for his firstborn daughter. "How has Asuka been weird?" He took a seat beside his little girl, wrapping an arm around her tiny shoulder. "Why don't you tell papa all about it?"

"…she's…just weird, now," replied Mari. Even had she not been on the verge of falling asleep, she would've found no other word to describe Asuka's mannerisms as of late. "Big sister hasn't had as much time to play as she used to…I...I can sorta understand that. It's about her job, right?" Mari looked right into her father's eyes. "You know, where you work?"

"That's one part, yes." It had occurred sometime in March; word had spread from somewhere that the Angels would return by the end of the year…by September at the earliest. Pieter had never found out the source of this rumor, only that EVERYONE took it seriously; NERV-1, the Human Instrumentality Committee, the UN…there had been little else to do but step up the training of the three Pilots currently stationed at NERV-2. Since the appearance of the Third Angel, Asuka's schedule had only gotten busier. "But that's not all, is there?"

Mari's bottom lip stuck out in the most adorable pout. "She's different now. She's always been really happy, and kind, and super smart, and...bouncy!" She impulsively smiled at the thought of her big sister's happy-go-lucky mannerisms before returning to her pout. "But she's been doing…weird stuff for two days now."

Pieter nodded. When Asuka had received the battle data for the Third Angel, she had spent all of her free time in her room, drawing up plans, schemes, tactics, and strategies for combat against the Angels. She had extrapolated how battles would have gone differently had the Third Angel's powers been ever-so-slightly different: greater strength, longer reach, faster regeneration…the girl had been remarkably thorough. With detailed information about how an Evangelion operated in live combat, she had even envisioned what would happen in scenarios beyond that of an Angel attack. Though she did not yet have the mathematical knowledge to actually describe her planned movements, her intuition was uncanny. Pieter would swear up and down that his little girl would have had a college degree by now… that is, had she not been so hell-bent on going through school 'the normal way'. "She has been real busy…and for good reason. You've heard the news about what happened in Japan on Sunday, right?"

Mari nodded. "I watch the news too, papa. Even if it does get boring."

The man chuckled. "How could learning about what's happening in the world around us be boring?"

"Cause they talk about so much bad stuff! I don't like it. I want them to do stories on…on, you know, the birthday party that Angela had last week! Or how we plan on exploring space! Or how NERV's making vegetables taste better! You know, the important stuff!"

Oh, how I envy you, Mari. Still, Pieter wouldn't put it past Ikari to have that crazy blonde scientist of his grow a strain of asparagus that tasted like smoked ribs. "Well, it seems like you know about what happened…about how the Third Angel attacked Tokyo-3." Mari nodded. She wasn't going to ask about why they called such gigantic beasts 'Angels', since she had asked that question umpteen times before and had received the same answer every time: 'they're not ACTUAL angels, they're just called 'Angels'.' Which always made her ask why they would call them Angels if they weren't angels, but that was another story. "Ska keeps going on about how she has to fight them one day."

"She's been preparing for this for over eight years now. We've had many talks about this before." The elder Langley ruffled the younger's hair, causing her to squirm in her seat. "We all knew this was coming eventually."

Mari harrumphed. "Why now though? Why did the Angels have to come now? If they keep coming, big sister's gonna keep being weird, and I don't want her to be weird! It's wrong!"

Pieter sighed. This was going nowhere; Mari would eventually wind herself up in a tizzy, then it would take a long time to calm her down enough before she would get into bed. "Alright then Mari, how about this; I'm going to go see Asuka and see if I can get her to bed. Then I'll come back out and help you get to bed. Then tomorrow before school, we can all have a big breakfast together and talk about this further. Sound like a plan?"

The young girl nodded excitedly. Papa was an important man, after all; if he really needed something done, then it would be done! After all, big sister still listened to him. "Okay." Mari then squealed as her father nuzzled against her cheek, planting a quick kiss. "Papa!"

"Now you wait right here," remarked Pieter as he stood up, heading down the hall towards Asuka's room. Her white door had a single paper taped on it, with a warning by Asuka.

KOMMANDOZENTRALE: IN SESSION

Please be so kind as to not disturb me.

Danke! ^_^​

Pieter chuckled at Asuka's mixed use of both German and English. "A 'command center', huh?" Without a second thought, he opened the door and stepped inside.

Papers.

Papers EVERYWHERE.

"My word…" The Commander of NERV-2 boggled at how much more work Asuka had done. Diagrams, sketches, battle plans…the walls and the floor were practically covered. At the end of the room was a large desk, upon which sat a PC; the monitor was showcasing a still image of Unit-01 slicing through the Fourth Angel's limb.

Sitting at the desk was none other than the fourteen year-old Asuka Langley Sohryu, out like a light. Her athletic frame was covered by slim yellow pajamas, and her glorious mane of red hair – inherited directly from her mother – was sprawled over her face. A light snore fluttered through her nose, a calming sound that belied the chaotic mess that was her room.

Pieter Langley resisted the urge to laugh. "You girls are going to be the death of me…" At six feet and two inches, he was still plenty strong enough to gently lift the 5'4" girl from her chair. With practiced ease, he gently set her down into her bed, her body sinking into the sky blue comforter.

Asuka's lips twitched. "…kaboom…and then I'll stomp…on its head…"

You get em' Asuka. Pieter smiled before departing.

Less than a minute later, he returned with Mari slumped over his shoulders. In that brief time apart, the Sandman had apparently made a quick stop.

He probably could've taken Mari to her own room…but quite frankly, Pieter thought that she needed this; events were now cascading into something altogether different, and things were only going to change even more as time passed.

He had to do what he could to let them enjoy childhood while it was possible.

Pieter slowly set Mari down beside Asuka, stepping back and looking at his two sleeping daughters.

His eyes watered as they unconsciously embraced each other…for he knew that, soon enough, he wouldn't be able to witness this scene for a long time coming.

The Commander of NERV-2 looked briefly towards the framed picture that hung on the wall above Asuka's dresser: there was himself – looking somewhat trimmer than now – with a seven-year old Asuka alongside a long-haired redheaded woman that held an infant Mari.

It was one of the last family photos that had all four of them.

…it didn't have to be you. It could have been anyone else. Pieter briefly let his face sag as he turned off the computer and the lights in Asuka's room. I've tried my hardest, Liebling…but they need you more than they need me.

Alas, regrets and wishes would accomplish nothing.

So it was with a grim heart that the father left his two daughters to their dreams, knowing that their mostly idyllic life was about to come to an abrupt end.

xxxx

/Misato's Apartment, Tokyo-3, Japan/

"Rrrgh…" gurgled Misato, slumping through her front door. "Tired…"

Paperwork! Observations! Dealing with whiny bureaucrats! Truly, more horrid foes than the Angels. At least Ritsky seems to be having fun. The blonde had executed her task with aplomb, delivering the Fourth Angel's remains to the Geofront where Section 1 could pore over it at their heart's content. The most significant remnant was the pierced red core of the Angel, which was still mostly intact. Even now, past 11 PM, the Head of Project E was still cracking away. When she gets going, she REALLY gets going.

Alas, poor Maya and Miyata; she knew them well.

"Wark."

The Lieutenant Colonel visibly brightened at the sight of Pen-Pen sitting on the couch, watching a documentary on the status of the Middle East post-Second Impact. "Hey there buddy…you did awesome today!"

The warm-water penguin seemed to shrug. "Wark?"

"Oh, Shinji-kun? He'll be staying in the Geofront for the time being." There was a slight downer; the boy was being ordered to stay for the next couple of days with Section 4 to ascertain the depth of his injuries. Though he hadn't been at a one hundred percent synchronization with Unit-01, his ratio had been high enough to leave traces of damage to his body that bore some similarity to the actual injuries on the Evangelion. Poor kid got pierced through the arm. Given that there was really no prior cases to compare injuries like this to – that is, injuries experienced through the nervous system of a non-human creature – Misato really couldn't fault NERV's medical staff for not taking any chances.

It was something to admire, really; despite appearances, the boy really was quite extraordinary. Only been here for three days, and already he's killed two Angels.

That was when she noticed the blinking phone beside her microwave. "A message?"

Click.

"YOU HAVE EIGHT NEW MESSAGES."

Misato balked. "Eight?"

Beep.

"FIRST MESSAGE."

"Shinji, this is Aunt Alicia."

"And Annette!"

Misato blinked, the gears in her head turning. Alicia, Annette…the people he's been living with for the past several years. She recalled the information portfolio on the family of Yui's brother. Apparently, Supreme Commander Ikari had given them the phone number to her home. How thoughtful! she thought with a small smile.

"We were given this number by your father, Shinji."

"By the way, have I forgotten to tell you that your dad makes no sense, on top of being crazy?"

"Now now Annette. Listen Shinji, we know you're probably going to be busy for a long time coming…but just know that we'll always be here if you need to talk."

"Seriously, if you start feeling as crazy as your old man, call us! We'll cure you."

"Annette!"

Misato couldn't help but giggle at the scolding Alicia began to deliver before the message hit the time limit. They sound so warm…they obviously care for him a lot. It was a comforting thing to witness: a family that actually loved their own.

"NEXT MESSAGE."

"Boy. I don't know when you'll be getting this message, but just know that I'm still here too."

This must be Tomoe Ikari.

"I know you'll be lacking good role models while you're there, so call me if you need actual answers to the tough questions. Also, if you end up dating anyone, call us. My wife and daughter will give you the hints you need to survive."

Misato actually laughed. The man sounded so gruff!

"NEXT MESSAGE."

"Kid…we've gotten word about the Angel that attacked this morning. I haven't been able to get any confirmation about your condition. Call us when you can."

Misato's jovial mood began to dim.

"NEXT MESSAGE."

"Shinji, this is your aunt. Please…call us as soon as you can. We're really getting worried."

"NEXT MESSAGE."

"Baka-Shinji, stop playing up the drama! I had to deal with all of your old buddies at school asking about you. The news about the Angel attack has already spread everywhere, and they won't stop bugging me! If you have any sympathy for your beloved cousin, you'll call me so I can tell them to stop worrying."

Annette, for all her bluster, was trying to mask her own worry. Misato could hear it as plain as day.

"NEXT MESSAGE."

There was a frustrated sigh from Annette. "Fine. I just know you're snickering, listening to this. Well, I got a list of people from school andour usual hangouts who wanted me to let you know that they're thinking about you. And not in that way, cause I know you're secretly perving out about all this attention! Well…here it goes."

This message – along with the seventh and the eighth – were all spent by Annette listing off people that Shinji had either been friends with at his old school or wherever he tended to frequent. It was…quite a long list.

The entire Music Club. A majority of the Student Council and the Newspaper Club. A good number of people from the sports clubs such as the Kendo Club, Karate Club, Tennis Club, Football Club, Amefuto Club, and Cheerleader Club. A whole score of unaffiliated students and some teachers. A small number of 'fellow explorers of Okayama-1', as well as a host of people from local businesses such as the convenience store, auto shop, and boxing gym.

So many people. Misato couldn't claim to know how many of them were actual friends of Shinji, or had just been compelled to call out of courtesy.

So many people that had been a part of Shinji's life.

And we had to take him away from that life to fight a war…because no one else can pilot Unit-01.

Misato clenched her fists, silently cursing the Angels for everything they had done…reviling them for everything they had destroyed…hating them for everything that they had taken away. "Damn it all."

"END OF MESSAGES."

xxxx

/Three Days Later/

/September 26, 2015/

/Data Analysis Room-G, Alpha Site, NHIS Research and Development, Osaka-1, Japan/

"Gotta say, NERV knows how to do a finishing blow."

"Indeed, Mana," remarked Shiro Tokita.

It had taken some time for NHIS to obtain the battle data concerning NERV's defeat of the Third and Fourth Angels. Their request for the first battle had still been under review when the Fourth Angel had abruptly attacked Tokyo-3, prompting a request for THAT battle data as well. It hadn't been until late last night that they had finally gotten both sets from the Defense Ministry.

Cue hours and hours of poring over footage and logistical data by the Alpha Site analysts. Their report had been compiled and delivered to Tokita, who had then showed it to the Jet Alone Pilots. They had just concluded a thorough study of Unit-01's final attack against the Fourth Angel.

"The fact that an Evangelion can neutralize an Angel's protective barrier – this 'AT-Field' – is a big plus on NERV's part," commented Mayumi, eyes trailing over the costs of repairing Tokyo-3's defense grid. "…I have to say, the collateral damage caused is…significant."

"That gives us a great advantage," said Tokita, a grin adorning his face as he thought of the possibilities. A working alternative to Evangelion would only be more palatable if it could do the job without destroying half a city in the process.

Hikari Kirishiama mentally grimaced before pointedly saying, "I'm so glad you find joy in tax dollars being wasted so frivolously."

"I can certainly vouch for their effectiveness once the Angel's AT-Field is neutralized, but they seem to be little more than distractions otherwise." Tokita stepped up towards the wall, which was laden with various monitors. "I have to say, those Gundams of theirs performed extraordinarily well…" That had been one of the main findings of the NHIS analysts; apparently, NERV had a force of customized Gundams that fought and acted with uncanny coordination. "But even they are nothing without an Evangelion."

Mana leaned back into her folding chair, absentmindedly scratching her red shirt. "So what do your eggheads say? Will the Jet Alone be able to break through an AT-Field?"

"We still don't have sufficient data to make a definitive answer; we can only make observations. The rail gun used against the Third Angel and the seeming effectiveness of NERV's 'progressive blades' are a positive indicator though."

Mayumi twirled a finger through her dyed hair as she commented, "What we would need is a live combat test against a being capable of utilizing an AT-Field. I can't imagine how we could accomplish such a thing, however."

A ringtone suddenly echoed through the darkened room, prompting the three ladies to turn towards the lone man. "Hmm…" Shiro's eyes scrutinized the caller ID. "This is from the Board…" He flipped the top open. "Hello sir?"

The two nephilim and their JSSDF handler watched in silence as the man's eyes increasingly widened, jaw dropping with shock.

Needless to say, Hikari Kirishima was immediately suspicious.

"Of course sir. You can count on us." The moment he hung up, his face split into the widest grin that they had ever seen.

Hikari Kirishima was now incredibly suspicious. "Something tells me I'm not going to like this."

"The Board of Directors has informed me that the Human Instrumentality Committee just had a unanimous vote in the affirmative; my request was granted by the UN and the Japanese government!"

Mayumi arched a dyed eyebrow. "Request?"

Shiro Tokita chuckled, reveling in his mirth. "My request for the Jet Alone to face an Evangelion during our debut demonstration."

Tokita's position as one of the heads of the Jet Alone Project had required him to get well-acquainted with the two nephilim Pilots and – by proxy – their JSSDF overseer. Thus, it was easy for him to predict their reaction.

Mana Kirishima: Slight disbelief, followed by barely-fettered enthusiasm accompanied with a savage grin.

Mayumi Yamagishi: A small measure of shock, followed by an apprehensive frown.

Hikari Kirishima: A subtle glare, followed by a disapproving snort.

With the exception of the elder Kirishima's snort – she had instead opted for a quiet growl – he had gotten them all right.

"Well hell, this has gotten interesting!" exclaimed Mana, leaning back into her chair with a satisfied expression. "That kid Ikari may have some chops, but he won't stand a chance against us."

"…how realistic will this demonstration be?" asked Mayumi, readjusting her glasses by force of habit. "Our demonstration will involve a live combat test? Won't the data be worthless if the Evangelion doesn't fight to…" The long-haired nephilim gulped. "Kill?"

"Oh, I don't imagine that the Evangelion will go 'too' hard on us. I don't think they believe that Jet Alone will be capable of breaching an AT- Field." Tokita clenched his fist, grinning at the thought of putting all of the doubters in their place. "We may not have the mandate of NERV, nor the trillions in funding, but we have ingenuity, cunning, and the will to never surrender!"

Mana rolled her eyes while Mayumi giggled; Mr. Tokita had the habit of getting rather hot-blooded regarding his 'baby'.

"Spare us your theatrics," grumbled Hikari. "This is no cause for celebration; I know you've heard all the stories about NERV. They would never allow an Evangelion to be used like this unless they had assured a favorable outcome." The former Sergeant First Class resisted the urge to grit her teeth; this man's idiocy was going to get her girls killed! "You're landing Mana and Mayumi right into a trap, and you know it."

Shiro Tokita stared openly at Hikari Kirishima…before he chuckled. "I know you don't think highly of me, but give me some credit. I know NERV wouldn't agree to this if they didn't have a guaranteed advantage."

Hikari's eyes widened. "Then why-?"

"Because that's the nature of the business we're in. We're creating a weapon that will prevent the end of the world!" Shiro stepped back, glancing towards the image of the Fourth Angel, casually flicking a severed skyscraper towards NERV's violet Evangelion. Such terrifying power, wielded with such casual ease. "The Angels…one of them had enough power to annihilate Antarctica in a single stroke! The UN has maintained for years that more will come, and they're finally here! Those people trust NERV to stop them. They trust NERV to safely handle all aspects of Angelic research. They trust NERV to safeguard the Sword of Uriel!" Shiro turned back towards Hikari, an oddly lucid look in his eyes. "You know full well what that means."

Hikari Kirishima grimaced. "Yes." The Sword of Uriel; according to the official UN report regarding the Katsuragi Expedition, it was an artifact of Angelic origin. She calmly recited information that had been burned into her mind, like it had been for practically everyone on Earth. "It draws the Angels towards Tokyo-3, where it's now kept under lock and key by NERV…because its properties are almost identical to those of the Lance of Longinus."

The Lance of Longinus. The term given to the weapon that had been used by ADAM to cause Second Impact.

The thought of what would happen if the Angels obtained the Sword of Uriel…it brought most people to their knees.

"I refuse to let one organization be the sole guardians of our planet's fate. If they fail…then it's over. I refuse to sit back and do nothing!" The man suddenly grinned, turning towards the two nephilim, who had been watching the conversation in silence. "I trust Mana and Mayumi to do their best. They've trained for this moment; they know the stakes. This is our chance to break NERV's monopoly on the protection of our world!" Chuckling, Tokita leaned against the wall, feeling slightly giddy over the sudden speech. "We all knew this venture wouldn't be without risks…but the reason we're all still here is because we're too damn stubborn."

"Seriously ya old broad, the man's got a point," remarked Mana, cracking her knuckles. Say what you will about Tokita, but there was no denying his dedication. "Stop being so flighty and let us do our thing, okay?"

Mayumi nodded. "Yes. This is what we've been preparing for." She smoothly got to her feet, stepping over towards Hikari and giving her a reassuring pat on the back. "Please mother…don't worry."

Hikari Kirishima stared into Mayumi's contact-covered eyes. Then she turned towards Mana. Then Tokita. "…it would be impossible for me not to worry." Finally, she exhaled, letting the tension leave her shoulders. "Hmph. 'Too damn stubborn' indeed."

"That's the spirit!" jauntily exclaimed Tokita. He then turned towards one of the computers situated beneath the monitors, which had a variety of audio and video files ready to play. Among them was the latest bit of 'propaganda' released by Gendo Ikari. "Still…despite our overall objective, I do have some measure of respect for NERV's Supreme Commander." He clicked 'Play', stepping back as one of the monitors showed the video file. "I mean, who else would have the stones to release a video like this?"

The monitor showed a mountain of a man – in a large warehouse of some sort – walking towards the camera, hefting a gigantic minigun. He lowered the heavy weapon onto a box, sitting down behind it; bald and tough, his Russian features were only magnified by his accent. "They call me 'the Heavy'." He then rested a meaty hand on the grip of the minigun. "And this…is a heavy weapon. My darling Sasha."

Mayumi blinked. "Sasha?"

"The guy named his gun?" asked Mana, a curious look in her eyes.

Tokita shrugged. He could understand the idea of naming something that was of great value to you, inanimate or otherwise. "Some do, some don't."

On the monitor, the…'Heavy'…ran a hand over the barrels, spouting off statistics as he went. "She weighs one hundred-fifty kilograms and fires twenty thousand-yen custom-tool cartridges at ten thousand rounds per minute." The heavyset man leaned closer to the camera, a chilling gleam in his eyes. "It costs forty million yen to fire this weapon…for TWELVE SECONDS."

Hikari Kirishima twitched. "Is he actually bragging about that much waste? Just think of how many soldiers could be fully equipped for that amount of money."

"Now Sasha? She is big girl." The Heavy suddenly stood up, walking towards the left of the camera's field of vision. "But OLGA…" It slowly followed him, tracking back to get a good view of the massive minigun that filled up the majority of the warehouse. A single cartridge also sat on the ground, itself the size of a large minivan. "SHE is biggest girl."

Mana chuckled at the sight of how puny the Russian looked next to the Evangelion-scale minigun; the word 'ant' seemed appropriate.

"Olga weighs over five hundred tons alone, and each round weighs two tons and costs over two hundred thousand yen!" The Heavy chuckled, patting the side of…'Olga'. "Angels think they so big, so tough….probably think they can outsmart us, too." The Heavy shrugged. "Maybe…maybe." With a devious grin on his face, he leaned against the humongous round. "We have yet to meet one that can outsmart bullet."

The audio suddenly shifted over to the sound of a minigun whirring to life, followed a moment later by the video. Now the monitor showed the Heavy standing atop a skyscraper, watching a battle somewhere off-screen. "Yeaaaah! Waaaaargh!" The camera swept around, settling behind the Heavy as he cheered and roared in a boisterous manner. "AAAAH HAA HAA HAA HAA HAA HAA HAA!" The camera pulled back further, revealing that he was, in fact, watching Unit-01 eviscerate the Fourth Angel with Olga. "CRY SOME MOOORRREEE!" The image immediately blanked out.

Mayumi's first thought was the cleanness of the digital manipulation – getting the image of the Russian atop a skyscraper to mesh so crisply with security footage of the battle – was quite impressive. Her second thought was that it was quite possible, given NERV's reputation, that this 'Heavy' person actually had watched the entire battle in person.

Her third thought – and the scariest one – was that the first and second possibilities were both equally probable.

One second after the screen had gone black, they heard the Heavy chuckle before rhetorically asking, "I wonder if Angel cries?"

A sequence of four images blew by, each one accompanied by a single note on a trumpet and a drum riff. In order, they were Unit-01 emerging from rubble, Unit-01 slicing off the Angel's limb, Unit-01 throwing the Fourth Angel into the air, and Unit-01 stabbing the Angel's core. The musical number drew to a close with five similar beats in quick succession, accompanied by NERV's signature logo against a white background…with the sole exception that the caption underneath the bisected leaf now read 'WE MAKE ANGELS CRY'.

The monitor went blank.

Hikari Kirishima scoffed. "They have a lot of gall, treating this whole situation so lightly."

"I don't know, I kinda liked it," remarked Mana.

"It helps preserve NERV's image as mankind's sole protector against the Angels. Even the casual release of monetary information like that brings with it the implicit statement that all of NERV's funding was well-spent," added Mayumi.

Shiro Tokita merely grinned. "Besides, you have to give credit to a paramilitary organization with a sense of humor." Not like that'll stop us from showing them up. The man sighed with content, his gaze set firmly towards the future. As mighty as Evangelion is, the Jet Alone is the pinnacle of the summit. We WILL not fail!

xxxx

/Keter, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"The Committee has just officially adjourned. We were unanimously in favor of granting NHIS's request."

"This is an opportunity that we cannot let slip by," remarked Gendo Ikari, hands tented in front of his face. At the moment, only he and Keel Lorenz were present, illuminated by white light in this dark, ominous room. "Given the…channels that we both tend to frequent, the Committee knows as much, if not more, than I do about what the Jet Alone is."

If nothing else, Keel Lorenz was practical. Outsiders would look upon the Instrumentality Committee's decision as one of many possibilities: an offer made in good faith towards NERV's fellow arms developer, a cocksure boast about NERV's superiority over NHIS's 'supposed' alternative, and so on and so forth. No; this was for something much more valuable than a mere anti-Angel weapon. "At long last, we have found the key to the locked door. This demonstration will finally provide a lead as to who stole the Modular Technology from the White Moon."

The theft of all information regarding the Modular Technology had been a rather nasty thorn in the side of the Committee and Gendo Ikari since before Second Impact. To think it would suddenly arise now, in the hands of Nippon Heavy Industrial Systems…

"Do not make light of this chance, Ikari."

"Perish the thought, Chairman Keel," replied Gendo. "One way or another, NERV will have the upper hand by the end of the demonstration."

Lorenz's expression tightened ever so slightly. "Which brings to mind the question of which Evangelion to send."

"Unit-01 is still under repair, and we need at least one Evangelion to remain here in the event of an Angel attack. The First Child is still healing, and has yet to successfully synchronize with Unit-00. The Second Child's fighting style is ill-suited for this demonstration, and the Fifth Child's fighting style will…most likely alienate any potential supporters of NERV. To fully judge the potential of this 'Jet Alone', while still keeping NERV's superiority unchallenged…we must use the Fourth Child."

"The Committee had come to the same conclusion."

Gendo resisted the urge to snark about how Putin would have preferred utterly crushing NHIS's upstart project, but even he knew that the Committee's Russian representative realized the value of this demonstration. "A lot of eyes will be watching. Given how soon the Fourth Angel attacked after the Third, people will be questioning NERV's ability."

"That is why you are the Supreme Commander of NERV. For all of your…oddities…you are capable and unflappable in the face of criticism.
Furthermore, you always see the big picture."

'Big picture'. Such a benign way of referring to the Scenario. "There was a great potential for panic after the Fourth Angel's attack. Humanity cannot hope to survive if the Angels attack with such regularity."

"That issue has been attended to. Suffice it to say, the Committee believes that it will be some time until the Fifth Angel manifests."

In other words, you've heckled your pet Nephilim for answers. A shame that they didn't have a reliable timeframe for when the Angels would arrive. In essence, they had one year; according to the Fourth Child, that was an upper bound on the amount of time it would take for all of the Angels to manifest. Anything beyond that – how many at a time, the frequency of their arrivals – was guesswork.

It was a precarious game that they were playing.

"Oh, and one more thing."

Gendo resisted the urge to twitch.

"The Committee also had a vote regarding what to do with the Fourth Angel's remains. Although we have faith in the capabilities of Dr. Akagi and her subordinates, we don't believe it would be prudent to overtax the resources of NERV-1. Therefore, we voted unanimously to have you send approximately forty percent of the remains to the Fourth Branch in Nevada. Among these remains to be sent will be the Angel's core and its S2 Organ."

Gendo's pinky toe twitched.

"I suggest you start preparing for the demonstration, Ikari." With that said, the Chairman's hologram flickered off, leaving Gendo on his own.

"And so it continues," murmured the Professor, calmly getting up from his seat and descending the stairs to his office.

Less than a minute later, the sound of a flamethrower torching an effigy of Keel Lorenz echoed through Keter.

xxxx

/The Next Day/

/September 27, 2015/

/Ikari Residence, Outskirts of Okayama-2, Japan/

Alicia Ikari calmly sipped the broth from a wooden spoon. "Hmm…needs a little more salt."

The blonde-haired Caucasian, standing five feet and six inches in height, cemented the dichotomy that was the Ikari household. Her husband was fourteen inches taller, for one thing.

He became commanding when it regarded matters dealing with the personal safety and wellbeing of his family, whereas she was the one who had the task of being the calm, peaceful one. In contrast, the things that Tomoe dubbed 'impractical' – home décor, everyone's personal wardrobes, mundane school projects that he termed 'utter wastes of time', the dinner menu, and so on – were in her domain, which suited her just fine. She would get her way regardless, as Tomoe had learned years ago.

Granted, they both butted heads when it came to the family's finances, but that was par for the course for most households.

Whereas Tomoe looked like he had been carved from a mountain, Alicia moved and gave off the impression of a cuddly kitty cat…until she gouged your eyes out.

Metaphorically speaking.

In the end, she was the one who provided order in the household during most circumstances, serving as the leash for her husband, who in turn provided help leashing their rowdy daughter.

Which is why she had tried her hardest not to whirl herself into a frenzy over Shinji, because Tomoe himself was barely hanging on, and Annette…well, she had barely been able to concentrate on her school work over the past few days.

First, there had been the attack of the Angel on the 20th, an event that had shocked the entire world. After fifteen years, the Angels had finally returned; what footage had filtered out to the public – chief among them the video made featuring Gendo Ikari, whose flippant attitude had irritated Tomoe something fierce – had stirred massive public interest. Pundits and commentators volleyed their words back and forth, with most of NERV's stalwart defenders feeling smug in their vindication (after all, they had maintained the necessity of NERV for years, in spite of the fact that no Angels had appeared after Impact). Debate about what would be coming next had been the order of the day.

In the world of Tomoe, Alicia, and Annette, their concern had only been for Shinji. Their attempts to contact him after being provided the number for his current residence – unknowing that Shinji had been out training for the first time with Misato's team – had proven fruitless. Attempts at calling him after word of the Fourth Angel's attack had proven equally futile.

Annette was visibly beginning to lose her ability to maintain composure, whilst Tomoe – despite his apparently calm disposition – was showing signs of snapping. If nothing changed, her husband was likely to purchase a flight to Tokyo-3 and proceed to beat the living daylights out of Shinji's father.

'Just a little longer', she had tried to assure them. They had practically raised the boy for half of his life; they knew how tough he could be when it came down to it. Furthermore, despite Tomoe and Gendo's mutual animosity, Alicia knew that the man cared for his son…and wouldn't let him die so soon.

At least, that's what she kept telling herself.

Just a little longer.

RII~ING!

Alicia's hand impulsively snapped down onto the cordless phone by the stove. The sheer timing of the phone with her thoughts made her rather anxious. Taking a few deep breaths to calm herself, Alicia answered. "Hello, Ikari Residence."

"Oh…Aunt Alicia?"

Alicia gripped the countertop for support; her knees had gone weak with relief. He's okay…he's okay…he's okay. "Oh Shinji, we've been so worried about you! We've called, we've left messages…why haven't you called back?"

"I'm sorry…" The boy sounded somewhat hesitant. "I just got out of hospital at NERV, but it wasn't really that bad! They just wanted to keep me for observation, and please don't cry Aunt Alicia, please don't cry!"

Alicia Ikari had been struck by the sniffles for a variety of reasons. One: sheer joy. He was alive! Two: her dear nephew had been in a hospital? For how long? Three: self-recrimination, for impulsively thinking that his inability to call back had somehow been his fault. It continued on, necessitating Alicia to deeply exhale. "I'm just happy. We've all been worried over here."

"I'm really sorry…" The boy briefly chuckled. It was a very reassuring sound for Alicia to hear. "Let me guess; Uncle Tomoe is barely saying anything for fear of doing something irrational, Annette's trying to not look like she's worried, and you're on the verge of pulling your hair out trying to keep them calm?"

"See, this is why I'm so upset that you've left. You helped provide stability!"

Shinji chuckled again, recognizing the joke for what it was. "Well, I did live with you all for a long time…"

"Alicia."

The blonde turned towards her husband, who had apparently overheard the conversation. "It's Shinji, dear."

"I know. Let me speak to him real quick while you take care of the food."

Alicia blinked. Then she paled. How long had she turned away from the stove? "Oh…" She turned, seeing broth and sauces bubbling over from the pots on the stove. "…no!" She thrust the wireless phone into her husband's hands before activating 'Mrs. Clean Mode'.

Tomoe calmly held the phone against his ear. "Boy."

"Oh, Uncle Tomoe! I heard Aunt Alicia scream; is she all right?"

"Just dealing with the stove," said Tomoe, his tone nearly as stoic as he was. "There are a lot of things that can be said, but you arrived at this point in your life of your own free will…so I can only ask this: do you regret any of it?"

A loaded question if there ever was one. Tomoe was highly cognizant of Shinji's current reality; not only had he set foot into a war against strange, god-like beings…but he now had himself mired in a world of political intrigue and betrayal. NERV had enemies both Angelic and human, and Shinji would be right in the thick of it.

Only one week since the boy had arrived in Tokyo-3, and already so much had occurred.

Was he willing to keep on going?

Finally, there was an answer.

"…no sir. I don't regret coming. I can hope for things to get better, but I know that this is only the beginning…so no. I don't regret anything."

Silence.

Then Tomoe let loose a grunt in affirmation. "Then there's nothing else for me say." The muscular man resisted the urge to grin. Shinji would make for quite a man one day…if he survived whatever his father had planned for him. He held the phone over to his wife, who had finally gotten things settled by the stove. "Here."

Alicia blinked as her husband exited the kitchen. "Um…don't you want to talk to-?"

"Already said everything we needed to say. I'm satisfied."

Alicia stared at her husband's back before rolling her eyes. Men.

Tomoe returned to the living room, eyes fixed upon a weathered spot on the white ceiling. Given his height, it was rather simple for him to catch his daughter's attention with a well-timed rap of his knuckles.

BAM.

Moments later, Annette's voiced filtered through the ceiling, muffled by the insulation."What is it daddy?"

"Shinji's on the phone," replied Tomoe, speaking aloud without shouting. Even without yelling, his massive frame was a natural amplifier.

Footsteps thundered from above as Annette charged down the stairs, stumbling and fumbling as she skidded into the kitchen. Moments later, he could his wife's surprised yelp, followed by his daughter shouting into the phone. "Baka-Shinji! How dare you toy with our emotions so callously?"

Tomoe shook his head as he sat down into a soft green chair, returning his attention to the hardcover book he had left on the armrest, its front cover bearing the image of the First Angel…as a chibi.

A giant white chibi gleefully punching the continent of Antarctica on a globe.

As if that weren't enough to offend people…the title font was in Comic Sans.

SECOND IMPACT: THE BOOK

An Irreverent Look at the Worst Disaster in the History of Humanity

Keel Lorenz​

It sounded like an odd book for a noted philanthropist like Lorenz to write. It was an honestly humorous yet scathing tract against the various people and groups that the German humanitarian – with cited evidence – blamed for the massive escalation of the Impact Wars. Amidst the lampooning was a sobering yet soulful look at the sheer damage wrought by the First Angel, with plenty of attention called to the universal suffering of all involved. The overarching theme was a constant push for mankind's continued evolution, to move beyond the petty issues that exacerbated Impact's horrors, to present a unified front against whatever challenges the future would bring.

For such an ultimately uplifting book – published in early 2004 – Tomoe had to wonder; what had pushed his sister into calling the author…a 'complete monster'?

And to think this man has oversight over NERV.

Tomoe Ikari grimaced, not for the first time wondering if Shinji would ever understand what he had gotten himself into.

xxxx

/Six Days Later/

/October 3, 2015/

/Outskirts of Tokyo-3, Japan/

On a rather sunny Saturday afternoon, Shinji Ikari was feeling downright pleasant.

His first whole, contiguous week of school at Tokyo-3 Municipal Junior High had concluded earlier at noon, and his opinion of the place had risen considerably when he had started back on Monday.

For one, everyone had actually returned! The student body had returned to its standard size; it had been heartening to see crowded hallways and nonempty classrooms. There was, granted, a great big deal made of his piloting; Kensuke had gone into a 'fangasm' (as the boy had so 'helpfully' termed it) when NERV had released the video featuring Mr. Kasparov. Toji had congratulated him on not breaking his apartment even more.

Sarcasm aside, Shinji was now on a casual speaking basis with both boys, and was beginning to make acquaintances with other students. There was still some surprise from other people about how he didn't make much of his 'job', but that would fade with time. Plus, Class Representative Horaki seemed to appreciate his generally tidy nature, so that was always a good thing.

Ayanami had been giving him these odd looks though, ever since the Fourth Angel had been defeated. The feeling he experienced when this happened was usually akin to being a mannequin in a display window, so he could only hope that this was just a…phase, of hers. Still, overall, things were going well with regards to the student body.

Secondly…NORMAL FACULTY. Almost all of the teachers for his year were basically cuckoo, so the sight of other faculty members in professional dress brought a sense of solace.

Third, his own year's teachers had been well-behaved!

Well, mostly. Heisen-san persisted in teaching with the muffler on, and DeGroot-san somehow kept sneaking alcohol into his classroom, but that was absolutely minor compared to everything else. Compared to his first day, this last week of classes had been heavenly.

Fourth, his training over the past week had taken a turn for the conventional. First there were stretches, followed by endurance running. While resting, he would have to come up with a strategy that would defeat the Third or the Fourth Angel, given certain initial conditions; in other words, he would have to come up with new ways to defeat Angels he had already beaten. After some sprints, he would then have target practice with various firearms. To conclude the day, he alternated between practicing with blades, sparring (NOT with Sergeant Ayanami, fortunately), or more cardiovascular exercises. Sure, it could still be exhausting, but everything was staggered out evenly enough to the point where he wouldn't collapse.

Plus, Misato and her team had behaved a lot more professionally since his father's intervention, which was always a plus. He'd take sanity where he could get it.

Fifth, he had actually been getting a formal look at the workings of the Evangelion, courtesy of one of the Ibukis. Dr. Akagi's time was divided between the Fourth Angel's remains and complaining to his father about how she had had to ship off the 'most interesting morsels of formerly malicious meat' to NERV-4 in Nevada.

Either way, Shinji was happy to avoid meeting Dr. Akagi whenever possible.

So far, all he had been doing with regards to Unit-01 was to get a look at the various safety features with the Entry Plug and his Plug Suit, accompanied by a basic understanding of how the Evangelion 'should' function during live operations.

Key word being 'should'.

Were it not for the presence of his mother, the 'should' would be a lot more troubling.

Shinji inhaled deeply of the autumn air, looking over Tokyo-3 from a rather scenic vista. Available by a number of walkways near the school, Shinji – having nothing scheduled for the afternoon – had availed himself of the opportunity to get a better look at his old hometown.

With the exception of the city of Tokyo-3 – along with all of the fortifications and infrastructure that came with it – the natural scenery was still mostly unchanged. Lake Ashi still sat quietly, a mirror of the sky on earth. The city was nestled between a multitude of mountains, providing a varied view that somehow meshed together into a cohesive, picturesque whole.

Sure, the sounds of construction and maintenance on the defensive platforms still echoed through the air, but at least all of the gooey bits from the Fourth Angel had been removed.

Things…are actually looking up. Sure, there would inevitably be another Angel attack, but his current situation in Tokyo-3 was on the upswing after a hectic return to his old home. "Yeah…things are looking up…"

"FRESH MEAT."

"GAH!" yelped Shinji, whirling around to see Randall perched on a log. "R-R-Randall?"

The tabby looked quizzically at him.

Ah yes. Randall. Dr. Akagi's cat had been out of sight and out of mind for the past week.

Shinji hadn't minded at all. "Erm…what…can I do…for you?"

The cat dutifully typed into the keyboard on his left arm. "FAST LADY SAYS THAT MAMA DEMANDS DINNER WITH YOU TONIGHT AT MAMA'S HOUSE. YOU WILL RETURN HOME TO GET READY."

"…"

"SEE YOU TONIGHT, FRESH MEAT." With that said, Randall lumbered off before breaking into a sprint, off to frolic as cats were wont to do.

Shinji Ikari, meanwhile, felt his good mood began to dissolve. "Mama?" Randall was Dr. Akagi's cat, which meant…dinner with Dr. Akagi?

At Dr. Akagi's house?

AND MISATO AGREED?

"…I'm dead," groaned the boy who had survived battle with two Angels. Just when things were going so well…

xxxx

To be continued…

Next time…

Episode 7: Hospitality (A book never shows what it says)

xxxx

(And here's an omake that expands on the exact people that wished him well from Okayama-2.)

xxxx

This message – along with the seventh and the eighth – were all spent by Annette listing off people that Shinji had either been friends with at his old school or wherever he tended to frequent. It was…quite a long list.

Ritsu, Mio, Tsumugi, Yui, Miu, Haruko, and everyone else from the Music Club. Chiffon, Itsuki, Mamori, and Aizen from the Student Council. Tsukune, Kurumu, Kazumi, and Mamimi of the Newspaper Club. Kenshin, Iori, and Yahiko from the Kendo Club. Ranma, Makoto, Yusuke, and Sanosuke of the Karate Club. Eiji and Takashi of the Tennis Club. Sena, Monta, and Kurita of the Amefuto Club. Tsubasa of the Football Club. Suzuna, Konata, Miyuki, Tsukasa, and Kagami of the Cheerleader Club. There were even some teachers who had wanted to offer their condolences: Onizuka, Kimura, Negi, Segata, and Nozomu.

Annette went on to list people with no particular affiliation at the school: Naota, Kafuka, Matoi, Nami, Yuki, Kuwabara, Sakaki, Kagura, Kyon, Yomi, Osaka, Ami, Chiyo, Tomo, Usagi, Setsuna, Yuna, Tenma, Itachi, and Kurama.

It continued with people beyond school. Simon, Harima, Kamina, and Haruhi from the 'Explorers of Okayama-1', as they had termed themselves. Kamon from the convenience store nearby the school. Tetsuo, Kaneda, and Renton from the family-owned auto shop on the border between Okayama-1 and Okayama-2. Takamura, Ippo, and Kamogawa from the local boxing gym that Tomoe apparently frequented.

So many people.

xx

(Exactly who Shinji's old classmates consisted of is noncanon, since Okayama-2 is a relative nonfactor as far as the story goes…but if ya'll wanna write something, go nuts.)

(In this nebulous anime university that was Okayama-2, Shinji was a background character.)

 

[Ultra Sonic 007]

/Ritsuko Akagi's Laboratory, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Ritsuko Akagi took a brief whiff from a cigarette, the stench of nicotine, tar, and tobacco roiling through her nostrils. "Okay." She quietly turned towards one of the various glass chambers in her lab, within which sat a small cube of crimson flesh. Unlike most of the other ones, this one was open; in Ritsuko's gloved hands was held a small gray device, its midsection ridged and glowing orange. The device ended in three thin prongs, humming with energy. "Commencing Graviton Effect Test-Number-Three on Sample 4-G-4."

A sudden spark in the lobe!

"Now…FLOAT FOR ME!"

What looked like orange electricity crackled along the front of the device, which now emitted a subtle drone as the piece of Angelic biomass began to levitate. Delightful songs about the power of flight, gliding, and floating in general danced through the doctor's ears as she kept a thumb on the trigger. "I've said it before, and I'll say it again; Freeman, bless your degree in theoretical physics!"

The Katsuragi Expedition, despite its inherent secrecy, had been a multinational effort. Vast repositories of information had been uncovered…among them a confirmation regarding the existence of gravitons, the theoretical particle that 'carried' the physical force of gravity. The entire universe, apparently, was enmeshed in a field of gravitons, with mass corresponding proportionally to the amount of gravitons in any given region of space-time.

The method by which gravitons could be observed had also been derived; via the use of a particular particle that did not exist naturally on Earth, but did exist in mostly plentiful quantities within the White Moon of ADAM, usually as blocks of orange, semi-hard gel. Dubbed Kleinium after one of the American researchers there, it was discovered that Kleinium, if exposed to a positive charge, would emit a shade of visible light corresponding to the concentration of gravitons within a sphere of radius r, where the length of r – in meters – was proportional to the number of coulombs present in the material.

If exposed to a negative charge, on the other hand, it actively repelled gravitons. The greater the charge, the greater the repulsion, to the point that the Kleinium would stay practically stationary if dropped in midair.

It wasn't an extraordinary find; after all, it wasn't ordinary, not even a little bit extra. It was a stupendous find!

Unfortunately, 'mostly plentiful quantities' had been a relative term; only twenty-five kilograms had been extracted and shipped out to various physics labs around the world before Second Impact had occurred.

In 2005, one Master's student at MIT in America had earned his PhD in applied theoretical physics – which, yes, sounds like an oxymoron, but it really isn't – by not only synthesizing Kleinium, but also devising a means by which to transmit the 'anti-gravity field' emitted by negatively-charged Kleinium to objects at a distance. The enterprising man, after being hired by a scientific research institute based in New Mexico, had had his synthesis process patented, along with the design of his 'Kleinium-induced field transmitter'.

These transmitters were called Freeman devices after their inventor.

It was still rather expensive to synthesize Kleinium, but most research labs needed but a few grams to utilize their Freeman devices; however, if more Kleinium was used, then less of a charge was needed.

Either way, Ritsuko usually preferred to call these transmitters Freeman devices, as was proper. On occasion, if the mood struck her, she thought of it as a gravity gun.

Like right now! "Oh yeah, you know you love it. You're so dirty! So dirty that you wallow in sewage to get cleaner!" All the while, the internal CPU of the Freeman device was analyzing the properties of the field emitted by the negatively-charged Kleinium, wirelessly transmitting the data to a nearby computer terminal.

Satisfied, the blonde calmly lowered the device, the piece of Shamshel's corpse now resting back on the pedestal in the chamber. The chamber was practically seething with jealousy; after all, it couldn't float, even if she fired the gravity gun at it. Truly, tis' a horrible fate to be bolted down to the ground. "Concluding Graviton Effect Test-Number-Three on Sample 4-G-4." The good doctor turned towards her terminal, analyzing the information collected by the Freeman device. "Hmm…how interesting." The rate at which gravitons disperse actually varies between samples of congruent size, regardless of what scanning processes they've undergone previously…again, contradicting prior observations regarding the use of the Freeman device on normal matter. "Again, Angels decide to mock everything. WITH GUSTO!"

Another spark. The thought of AT-Fields casually screwing over the laws of physics in all its X-Rated glory made the doctor cackle. "For Angels, they're quite naughty! Abominable. Yet KINKY! BOOAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAA!"

…I need a break.

Dr. Akagi sighed as she put down the Freeman device, glancing at the time being displayed on her cybernetic monocle. "Hmm. 2:57 PM…how much can I get done before I go home?"

Ideas. Formulations. Metaphysical shenanigans!

"Let's compare combustive properties next."

Fire was also good.

xxxx

Episode 7: Hospitality (A book never shows what it says)

xxxx

/Rei Ayanami's Apartment, Tokyo-3, Japan/

Spartan. Empty. Practical. Easy to clean. Lacking in personality.

Those were all valid terms to describe Rei Ayanami's apartment; a rather simple domicile – a kitchen that connected to the washroom, with one large room serving as both the bedroom and living room – spoke of someone who was not prone to expressing themselves. Or perhaps Ayanami was merely a neat freak.

She was both and yet neither.

Rei Ayanami was Rei Ayanami.

Nothing more, nothing less.

So why was she in such an introspective mood as of late?

The Sergeant looked around her apartment, noting various things with her eyes.

The beige carpet underneath her bare toes. Beige. The color for standard NERV uniforms. Compared to other colors, it makes no impression. Indistinctive. The walls, bearing white paint. White. Not a color, yet every color at once. Nothingness. Endless possibilities. Her bed, with a box spring and a mattress that bore naught but a single cover and pillow. Blankets were unnecessary; she was never cold. A bed. Where humans sleep, so as to revitalize their bodily functions. Supposedly an object of comfort. Supposedly where one dreams. That was an interesting thought. Dreams. Do humans dream the same as I? Do the thoughts that I have qualify as dreams? Is it possible to dream incorrectly? Is there such a thing as dreaming incorrectly? If one has no memory of a dream, then can it be called a dream?

Her nature being what it was, pondering these questions was not odd in the slightest.

The Sergeant turned towards a small bureau standing in the corner; sturdily built yet lacking in decoration. Opening the doors, she took a look at the various uniforms of both JSSDF and NERV issue. Military uniforms. Some designed for combat. Some not. Each one carries with it a specific image, a specific meaning. They are already defined, regardless of who wears them. Her eyes turned to the few medals that sat on the shelf. Signs of service. Proof for others who would not take my word at face-value. Yet their inherent meaning can be different depending on who you are. Why? She could recall a number of fellow soldiers from the Mexican Campaign of 2010. Most wore them with pride. Some showed expressions of disbelief, indifference, or humility. A few had thrown them away, all but cursing them. These medals are made uniformly, and are not made specifically for any individual, and yet they can be treated differently all the same.

Ayanami closed the doors of the bureau, reflecting on the fragmented nature of humanity. Each person was an individual, and thus mysterious. However, there was still the fascination and desire to belong to something greater, to aspire for something beyond the self.

A paradox.

The young girl turned towards the large mirror that stood atop her small dresser. She was currently wearing a white undershirt and similarly-colored undergarments. Clothes. As many varieties as there are people. Providing cover and protection. Serving as a means of self-expression. Showing that one belongs to certain groups. Some have their own identity, others do not. People can provide their own sense of identity, or none at all. Rei was mostly indifferent to the subject of clothing; her school-mandated uniform, military fatigues, and Plug Suit were sufficient for all of her daily purposes. Her current choice of clothing was a compromise between three things: her acknowledgment of social constructs regarding nudity if someone were to arrive at her household, her desire for some measure of cover over her body's structural weak points, her preference for less constricting clothing, and her personal comfort, in the sense that she preferred less clothing to more clothing in noncombat situations.

Even in situations of minor importance, she encountered paradoxes. Was it the nature of humanity to be living conundrums?

Her sight fell upon her hair. Blue. The color of the sky. The color of the ocean. The favorite color of many. Supposedly a calming color. The color of my hair. The color that disturbs those around me. She had witnessed some of her academic peers state that blue was their favorite color. On certain occasions, some of them had died their hair in various shades of blue, usually resulting in some measure of excited clamor. Not so for when she had first begun her tenure at schools; her blue hair – upon discovery that it was natural – had been a subject of caution and wariness. By now, it was accepted as just Rei Ayanami being Rei Ayanami. However, it had always been a source of curiosity for her; apparently, even colors could bring different reactions depending on their source, regardless of how favored they were.

Another paradox.

She focused on the reflection of her eyes. Red. The color of my eyes. The color of blood. A brief twinge as she recalled the taste of LCL, how similar it smelled to the fluid that leaked from the newly dead. Somehow…an unpleasant color. Red had various connotations, often relating to warnings and alerts. Even so, blood was a part of life, a necessity…and yet it was also uncomfortable to look at.

A paradox? Did humans even consider these to be paradoxes?

She had not pondered questions like these for a long time.

The source of her reflective mood hinged on her injuries…or the lack thereof. She looked intently at her reflection, analyzing the left side of her body. Unbandaged. Unmarred. Without blemish. My body. The vessel of my soul. That which people perceive as the appearance of Rei Ayanami. She should not have healed this quickly; true, her body healed faster than that of any human, but her prognosis had been off by a whole week. Maturation was a possible explanation, but the fatigue and wounds she endured over the course of her standard training routine did not fade away any quicker than they usually did.

She certainly hadn't accessed…that. The last time she had done so had rendered her comatose.

So what was the new variable?

The Angels…? No…Ikari.

Shinji Ikari, son of the Supreme Commander.

He was…odd. His performance against the Fourth Angel had been…satisfactory. The hesitation he had shown during his first spar against her had never appeared. Why? Why hesitate against me?

That would be something to consider later. There was now the matter of Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi's order: to be at Dr. Akagi's residence at Seventeen-Forty-Five hours for dinner. Though curious as to the nature of the Lieutenant Colonel's decision, an order was an order.

The question is: what would be socially acceptable to wear?

Rei pondered on the fact that the Operations Director had said that the Third Child would be there, while also acknowledging that the boy had exhibited…curiosity. Curiosity about her strength, curiosity about her origins.

Curiosity about Rei Ayanami.

Is the Rei Ayanami that he sees the same Rei Ayanami seen by Professor Ikari? By the Lieutenant Colonel? By Dr. Akagi? By Toji Suzuhara? By Hikari Horaki?

He had defeated two Angels. He had not run away, despite her misgivings about his aptitude.

The First Child turned back towards her bureau. Perhaps the Third had attained the right to learn a little more about his teammate, about his fellow Pilot.

xxxx

It was almost a quarter to six in the evening.

"Gosh Shinji-kun, you're acting so…skittish!"

"Please be quiet Misato-san," politely asked Shinji as he held a hand over his ear, the other one wrapped tightly around the cell phone issued to him by Misato. Given his relative proximity to the school and to the Geofront access junctions, he had felt no real need to use it as of yet.

Now? He was inside the sidecar to Misato's motorcycle. Misato's motorcycle was en route to Ritsuko Akagi's apartment complex. Shinji was currently talking to his father, trying to obtain mercy. Or asylum. Or something! "Come on father, I've done enough to earn one favor, haven't I?"

"You're not even fifteen and your monthly salary is half a million yen."

"But I've saved the world twice!"

"Yes. Saving the world is a privilege. Especially when done with an Evangelion, since it's just like saving the world with a giant robot, except cooler."

"…what?"

"I have no reason to order the Lieutenant Colonel to not take you to dinner at Dr. Akagi's."

"Father. It's…it's Dr. Akagi! You know what she's like!"

"And that's precisely why you're going."

Shinji grimaced. "…you're…so cruel."

"Lesson #5: If you do get the chance to make a second impression, make sure your book has plenty of pictures instead of walls of barely-legible text."

"…what does that mean?"

"You'll see."

A prompt 'click' signaled Shinji that his father had hung up. "…bah."

"Trust me Shinji-kun, you'll have a great time!"

"You'll forgive me if I'm not excited," grumbled the Third Child. Given that his personal experiences with the Chief of Section 1 had been…somewhat unpleasant, he felt that his reactions were justified. Well, I'm going anyway. Might as well suck it up.

The ride continued in relative silence – well, as silent it could get when sitting in a motorcycle's open sidecar – until they arrived at the apartment complex where Ritsuko Akagi lived on the first floor.

Surprisingly, Maya and Miyata Ibuki were both waiting outside the door to her first-floor apartment, clad in casual clothing. Shinji nearly did a double-take; he had already gotten used to the two being practically interchangeable at NERV. Maya wore a blue, knee-length sundress over a white blouse, whilst Miyata wore blue jeans and a red T-shirt. On Maya's feet were white sandals; Miyata, on the other hand, wore gray sneakers.

Maya's clothing emphasized that she was, in fact, a girl. Miyata's emphasized the fact that he was a guy.

Shinji briefly wondered how much they appreciated their off-time from NERV.

"Ah, Lieutenant Colonel!" exclaimed the Ibukis as they snapped a salute.

"Mah, we're all off-duty," replied Misato with a casual wave of her hand. "No need to be so formal."

"If you insist, ma'am." Miyata then turned towards Shinji, giving him a friendly handshake. "And a pleasure to see you in better circumstances, Ikari-kun!"

"Thanks, Miyata-san." Shinji then gave a polite bow to Maya. "Hello to you too, Maya-san."

Maya smiled as she bowed back. "It seems that living with Misato-san hasn't ruined your manners."

"Now what's that supposed to mean?" fumed Misato, giving an exaggerated glare at the female half of the twins.

"Well, we can only go by what your teammates say," remarked Miyata with a shrug.

As Misato proceeded to list the creative ways in which she was going to get back at the members of her team, Shinji couldn't help but notice how much more…vibrant the Ibukis were. During the few times had seen them personally at NERV, they had carried themselves with a great deal of self-control. Their self-control would lessen if they were not within the vicinity of Dr. Akagi, for they would become more expressive and less…twitchy.

It made him wonder. "Um…Maya-san? Miyata-san?" Having captured the attention of the Ibuki Twins, Shinji continued, "Well, I was curious; why are two here?" The quizzical stares sent in his direction prompted him to explain. "What I'm saying is, well…you don't seem to enjoy how Dr. Akagi treats you at work."

Maya shrugged. "It's something we got used to."

"Senpai still hasn't realized that I've hemmed my pants yet," added Miyata, giving Shinji a conspiratorial wink.

…right. "Um, okay. But even so, I thought only Misato-san and myself were invited."

Maya and Miyata both grinned before the latter explained. "Well, this event usually occurs once every three weeks, and it's usually just for the two of us."

Shinji blinked. "Just the two of you?"

"Yep! Trust us Ikari-san, it really makes up for it," finished the female twin.

Okay…maybe father and Misato-san were on to something. After all, if the Ibukis were acting this positively about dinner at Dr. Akagi's, then perhaps-

"Ah, hello Rei-chan!"

Shinji's musings were interrupted by Misato's greeting. Wait. Rei's coming to join us? On impulse, the Third Child turned to face the approaching First Child…and paused. What…is she wearing?

Rei Ayanami calmly strode towards the group of four, clad in a black ceremonial dress uniform that was part and parcel for officers of the JSSDF. The skirt came down below her knees, and her feet were clad in black, pointed-toe shoes, the leather polished to a gleaming shine. Her lapels were neatly ironed, and the whole uniform fit slimly against her frame. Over her left breast were several military ribbons, each one a cavalcade of colors that seemed…out of place with someone like Ayanami. Stitched into the fabric of her left sleeve was the appropriate insignia of a Sergeant: a single star above an arrow pointing upward.

Shinji thought that the uniform as a whole fit the girl well. Very well. "Ayanami-san?"

"What are you in your dress uniform for, Ayanami-san?" asked Maya.

"I determined this to be the most proper outfit I had on hand for the occasion."

Shinji looked around; the Ibuki Twins were dressed casually, Misato was in that short brown dress uniform that she seemed to favor, and he was in the navy blue suit he had worn the day of his arrival in Tokyo-3 (it had taken FOREVER to get the smell of LCL out). It was somewhat…obvious that Ayanami was overdressed relative to everyone else. Just as he was about to ponder why Ayanami hadn't picked clothing more befitting a casual dinner invitation, the boy was struck by the fact that the girl was wearing a ceremonial dress uniform.

A dress uniform for military officers of the JSSDF.

What the? Shinji was understandably stunned by this realization; why in the world did Ayanami have a military dress uniform? Is she actually older than me?

Before Shinji could deliberate on this further, his eyes flickered towards the Ibuki Twins as they suddenly stepped towards the front door. "Well, it's a quarter till' six," said Maya as Miyata rapped the door with his knuckles.

Right after the front door opened, Shinji's jaw dropped out of sheer shock.

The Ibuki Twins in casual clothing had been an unusual sight.

Rei Ayanami in a ceremonial dress uniform had made for a bewildering combination.

Ritsuko Akagi – DOCTOR AKAGI – in a sky blue kimono with a salmon-colored obi was simply earth-shattering. The serene expression on her face, which was bereft of her ubiquitous cybernetic monocle, only made the visual that much more jarring.

"Well, we have ourselves a full crowd tonight," said the blonde woman, a calm smile on her face. "Please, come in and I'll prepare dinner."

As the Ibuki Twins and Rei followed Ritsuko into the house, Misato shot her flabbergasted ward a smug grin that said 'I told you so'.

Shinji blinked dazedly as Misato nudged him into the apartment, wondering if this is what his father had been talking about when had said 'second impression'.

xxxx

/Osaka-1, Japan/

"Quite a sight, ain't it sis?"

Mayumi Yamagishi solemnly nodded. "Indeed it is."

Mana Kirishima cocked an eyebrow. "You sound sad."

"Well…" Mayumi readjusted her faux glasses, taking in the sight of Osaka-1's ruins. The two nephilim, clad in the gray bodysuits used for training purposes, stood atop one of the skyscrapers that had still remained standing after Second Impact. There was a particular cluster of the derelict towers standing in the vicinity of Alpha Site, with others dotting the waters here and there. The setting sun cast a bloody tint on the sea, granting a darker color to Mayumi's thoughts. "…it's a little depressing."

"How so?"

"There were a lot of people here...and these buildings look kind of…sad." The girl ran a hand through her hair, dyed the color of ravens. "To stay standing without being used…"

The more forward of the two – apparent in the way she carried herself, in how casually she advertised her nephilim traits – rolled her eyes. "And what? Should they be destroyed?" She looked slyly at her fellow hybrid, adding, "You saying that 'useless things shouldn't exist', eh?"

Oddly enough, Mayumi's first reaction was to smile sadly, recognizing Mana's bait for what it was. "I know where you're trying to take this. I'll be quick to remind you that a building has no will of its own."

"…"

"I win."

"Shut up, Mayumi," lightheartedly grumbled Mana.

To a casual observer, this banter would be seen as evidence of strong relationship between siblings.

They would miss the undertone that indicated the dichotomy of their viewpoints on…certain matters.

"I think it's a little funny though. The people of Japan did their damnedest to earthquake-proof their cities, had policies in place to deal with tsunamis. Even if their cities crumbled, they'd group together and rebuild." That had been the vaunted Japanese ethic; individuals conforming towards a common purpose when the situation called for it. "But the moment the bombs go off?" Mana slapped her hands together, mouthing a sound akin to shattering glass. "They collapsed like everyone else did."

"They also rebounded quickly…well, more so than others." Suffice to say, the First World nations had been the first to get back on their feet following the Impact Wars. Several others had followed suit within the ensuing years. Others…hadn't. "I still maintain that it's impressive that we've come as far as we have in fifteen years."

Mana snorted. "Eh, if things go to crap against the Angels, and Third Impact happens? It'll all come crashing down again." Her red eyes, taking in the sight of old Osaka, glinted in the sunset. The ruins of Osaka-1 did not evoke feelings of depression, sadness, or regret. No; all it did was serve as an example of how frail it all was. "They're all so damn frail."

Mayumi gazed at her sister knowingly, a wry smile on her face. "Are we any different?"

Mana chuckled, reaching down and grabbing a small piece of detritus. As she let it settle in her hand, her eyes focused on a skyscraper that stood about…seventy yards away. "And Mana Kirishima winds up for the pitch…!" The oblong piece of rubble practically flew, curving back and forth on the way to its destination.

From Mana and Mayumi's perspective, they only heard a muted tinkle after the debris shattered the window on the fiftieth floor. "Way I see it, sis?" Mana shot a cocky smirk at her fellow nephilim. "If things go to hell in a handbasket? Humanity's gonna be at each other's throats in what little time they have left. Us? We'll be surviving loo~oong after they do."

Mayumi shook her head; if nothing else, Mana's cocksure attitude was morbidly amusing. "Come on. It's almost time for the final test of the Mobile Trace System. We don't want to keep Tokita-san waiting."

"Yeah yeah yeah," grumbled Mana as she flexed her legs. "I'm startin' to get antsy, waiting for this demonstration."

Mayumi lightly laughed at her sister's impatience. "You're always antsy."

The two nephilim continued with their good-natured ribbing as they hopped from rooftop to rooftop, casually showcasing their superhuman power for any who happened to be watching.

xxxx

/Ritsuko Akagi's Apartment, Tokyo-3, Japan/

The current term describing Shinji Ikari's mood was 'bewildered', with a side order of 'pleasantly surprised'.

They were situated around a short dinner table, kneeling in a traditional style; Misato sat between Shinji and Rei on one side, whilst Ritsuko Akagi sat between the twins on the opposite side. The décor, with its earthen colors and antique design, evoked images of a home from the Edo period of Japan. Ritsuko had calmly and diligently served cups of tea and sake (needless to say, Shinji and Rei's sake cups had been quickly pilfered by Misato), before presenting bowls of miso soup, bowls of steamed rice, and gyoza filled with pork and vegetables.

You can probably imagine the boy's reaction upon learning that everything had been homemade.

The dinner conversation had been somewhat colloquial amongst the four adults present, with Shinji and Rei being mostly silent; Shinji because he was still rather shell-shocked and Rei because…she was Rei.

It was too much. The boy was practically going crazy from the contradictions at play here. "Um…Dr. Akagi?"

"Please Shinji-san, I'd prefer not to be called by my title while I'm off-duty. Ritsuko would be fine."

"Um…okay, Ritsuko-san." The politeness was also jarring. Politeness had NEVER been a priority for Dr. Akagi. "Well…this is probably gonna sound rude, but-"

"No, I don't have dissociative identity disorder. 'Unclassifiable', remember?"

Shinji threw his hands into the air. "But this is just so…weird! And my father's Gendo Ikari, so I'm a pretty good authority on what's weird and what's not!"

"Welcome to the club, Ikari-kun," remarked Miyata as he took a sip of his sake.

Maya finished chewing on her gyoza before adding, "After we became senpai's assistants, we HAD resigned ourselves to a grisly fate…fortunately for us, she insisted on us having dinner with her whenever she had the opportunity."

"I swear, I honestly don't know how you two put up with me," lamented the kimono-clad Ritsuko as she gracefully sipped from her cup of tea. "My actions would constitute harassment in any other working environment."

Maya laughed it off; whether it was forced or not, Shinji couldn't tell. "At least none of it's permanent."

The Head of Project E rolled her eyes at Maya's attempt to cheer her up. "A broken leg isn't permanent either; it still hurts."

"…so, why this?" Seriously, Shinji needed an answer, pronto; the strangeness of the whole scenario was driving him batty!

Ritsuko smiled as she leaned back on her feet, her expression wistful. "It was…a culmination of factors that led to my current psychosis. Needless to say, when I get involved with my work…when I get involved with matters of an Angelic nature, or with Project E, or the MAGI…" A tiny spark. "My brain…it's like it gets struck by lightning." Another spark. "GREASED LIGHTNING, BABY!"

A simultaneous cry of 'senpai' and 'ma'am' rang out as the Ibuki Twins place their hands on her shoulders, trying to calm her down. The blonde shook her head, blinking rapidly before sighing. "Yes. Like that."

"…okay." Shinji's placid expression was rather efficient at hiding his thoughts. Which, by the way, were somewhere along the lines of 'Crazy lady crazy lady crazy lady crazy lady!'. "But…how? I mean, why?"

"The factors that led to this particular state of mind…" Ritsuko ignored Misato's sniggers at the pun. "…are varied and rather intricate. Unlike many other mental disorders involving alter egos or split personalities, my memory is unaffected."

"That sounds…awful." Remembering your actions as…well, a mad scientist? To remember perfectly how you were so unlike yourself? It was somewhat maddening to contemplate.

Ritsuko shrugged. "I'm touched by your concern, Shinji-san. Fortunately, there are some benefits…for one, I can remember who to apologize to. And how to apologize, depending on my actions at the time." This was no joke, either. Not that Shinji could tell, given how casually she was talking. "Plus, when I'm…under the influence, so to speak, I can formulate ideas that I would have no hope of conjuring normally."

"And no, Shinji, this is not an excuse for you to take drugs," interjected Misato.

Shinji shot his guardian a pointed glare. "…I wasn't thinking that."

"Just being responsible," remarked the Lieutenant Colonel, a devilish grin on her face.

"At any rate, this was one of the reasons I wanted Misato to bring you over for dinner." Ritsuko drank some more of her tea, basking in the warmth that inundated her body. "To clear the air between us. To reassure you that my actions towards you up to this point were not…malicious in origin."

The Third Child nodded, feeling rather uplifted. Everything had been relatively normal thus far, the food was good, and nothing had blown up! "Well, thank you Ritsuko-san. I've really enjoyed dinner so far, and…what?" Shinji blinked; Ritsuko now had an amused smile on her face, while the Ibuki Twins were trying their hardest to not laugh. "What's so funny? Why are…?" The boy, having grown up experiencing the likes of both Gendo and Annette, was immediately suspicious. Slowly, knowingly, the boy turned around.

Randall was sitting right there, giant robotic body and all.

Shinji could only sigh out of exasperation. "How in the world are you so quiet?"

"I AM A CAT."

Ritsuko giggled. Femininely. "There's my baby boy; Maya, Miyata, could you please extract him? I know that we just put him back in yesterday, but I think one more day won't hurt."

"Yes, senpai!"

"Yes, ma'am!"

As Randall calmly strode away for the table, Shinji arched an eyebrow. "Extract?"

"You see Shinji-san, I have to periodically let Randall out of his robotic avatar, so as to prevent muscular atrophy. It also gives him a chance to…well, be a cat. The usual schedule is one week in, one week out, with the change occurring every Friday."

That certainly explained why Shinji hadn't seen hide nor hair of Randall the past week; the cat had actually been a cat! "Ah. I see."

Maya and Miyata diligently unlocked the front panels along the torso, which then extended out from the main body. The entirety of Randall's body could now be seen, restrained by cushioned straps; the fur on the back – from the neck down to just past the shoulder blades – was shaved clean, revealing odd nodes arranged along the spine. Segmented cables were attached to these nodes, apparently serving as the means by which Randall controlled the robotic suit. Slowly and meticulously, all eight cables were removed, revealing an incredibly thin spike at the tip.

Shinji briefly twitched at the thought of spikes connecting with his spinal cord, sending a brief shiver over his skin. "So, Ritsuko-san, what are those things on his back?"

"I call them command nodes; they're based off of GEHIRN's research into cybernetic augmentation. They provide the means by which the feline nervous system interacts with the software of the robotic suit. The software for each of Randall's robotic vessels has to be programmed individually, but after years of working on it, it's become a relatively simple process."

Shinji held up a hand. "Hold on…you said 'each'. As in, he has more than one body."

Ritsuko nodded with a wide smile. "Of course! Randall got his first robot prosthetic when he was very young. Once he reached physical maturity about six years ago, I was able to outfit him with robotic shells of various types and sizes."

"…like what?" asked Shinji.

xxxx

/May, 2009/

/Primary Research Facility, GEHIRN, Geofront, Hakone, Japan/

"RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!" screeched a male technician as dozens of GEHIRN staff fled one of the facility's many laboratories.

The reason why they fled soon appeared by the lab doors: an orange tabby.

Specifically, an orange tabby clad in a metallic harness, from which extended four segmented tentacles – each one capable of extending over ten feet – that ended in three-pronged claws. The bottom two appendages were used for walking, whilst the top two were playfully juggling a brown-haired scientist, who had long since passed out.

Following the cat was none other than a younger Ritsuko Akagi, as blonde as ever, as boisterous as ever. "Yes! SHAKE IT! SHAKE IT LIKE A 7.0 ON THE RICHTER SCALE! BWAAAAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAAAAA!"

xxxx

Ritsuko's grin now sported teeth. "Aah…showed that smug Dr. Molina who was boss. Hm hm hm hm…hoohoohoo…BOHOHOHO-!"

Maya and Miyata snapped their fingers in front of the blonde woman's face.

Dr. Akagi immediately blinked. "Ah yes, sorry about that. I was just reliving a…fond memory."

"…I see," muttered Shinji, now fully aware that Ritsuko-san could transition into Dr. Akagi at the drop of a hat. His paranoia was still justified!

Randall then made his presence known as he shook his fur and gleefully scratched at his ears with his feet. Shinji quietly marveled at how Randall proceeded to rub against everyone at the table…and simultaneously, he wondered why. "Is there any particular reason for the…robot bodies?"

"A whim on my part," glibly replied Ritsuko. "In any case, Randall isn't one of the reasons I invited you here tonight. What I wanted to do was gauge your…'understanding' of certain…events."

"Huh?" Shinji blinked at the sudden shift in the conversation, away from Randall and his augmentations. "Er, okay."

"Tell me Shinji-san, how much do you know about Second Impact?"

The mood turned stoic as everyone turned their focus towards Shinji. Even Rei, who had been relatively uninvolved with the discussion thus far, turned a keen eye towards the Third Child.

"…again, my father is Gendo Ikari." Shinji spoke as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. The UN had declared the truth of Second Impact to the public over a decade ago, and his father was charged with defeating the ones who would initiate Third Impact. Suffice to say, Shinji knew more than most did about Second Impact.

"Humor me."

Shinji sighed. "Okay Ritsuko-san…" The boy took a sip of his tea before continuing. "There was an expedition to Antarctica that was launched in 1999, with approval from the UN." As he spoke, his mind began to substitute images to go along with the tale. He was now envisioning several ships unloading supplies onto the chilled Antarctic wastes. "Satellite scans had detected a strange spherical structure buried in the ice near the South Pole, and a multi-national coalition had been formed to unearth it in secret." A large spherical expanse, rife with strange architecture and humming with power. "The ensuing excavation revealed a facility of alien origin." A white giant, sitting calmly in a complex throne of machinery and electronics; a silent sentinel over its domain. "They discovered a creature that seemed alive, yet would not respond to any prompt. It was…named ADAM." Scientists and technicians in bodysuits and parkas, carefully tinkering with the alien artifacts. "Research ensued in the hopes of advancing humanity's understanding in all fields of knowledge." A familiar man, keeping a calm eye over all proceedings. "My father was one of the chief supervisors on behalf of the UN. He…always said that he owed the position to the influence of my mother's name."

Gendo Ikari had never been shy about admitting to Shinji that the name 'Ikari' had so much more influence than his original name 'Rokubungi'. The man had likened it to being branded by Yui.

"And?" interjected Ritsuko, knocking the boy from his thoughts. "What happened next?"

"Oh. Um…well, things proceeded like that for a while. Due to the alien technology present, security and secrecy was paramount. It was to the point that all of the chief supervisors had to personally ferry the results of the expedition's findings out of Antarctica, since wireless communication couldn't be trusted." A helicopter taking off from the research site; onboard was Gendo Ikari, carrying a casket full of compact disks and hard drives. From there, he would land at an improvised airport that had been built near Antarctica's shore. A military cargo plane would serve as his transportation back to Japan. "Things continued like that for a while…then came the Tenth of September, 2000."

Ritsuko's eyes twinkled. "Oh? What's so special about that day?"

"…there was report of the discovery of another alien, deeper within the alien facility." A large tank – dozens of meters high – within which lay another white giant, this one bearing a purple mask. "This new creature was named LILITH. My father, as per his job description, left Antarctica to deliver the reports concerning LILITH, along with the usual cache of extracted data." Shinji's throat stalled as he thought of what came next; the day where everything changed. "Three days later…"

A white giant…stirring.

"…ADAM awoke…"

Four wings of amber light, extending high above Antarctica.

In a single flash, the facility – along with the entire continent – was annihilated.

"…and initiated Second Impact."

It was impossible for Shinji to speak of such an event lightly, given the sheer magnitude of its scope and power. The people around him were also rather quiet, as if engaging in a spontaneous moment of silence.

"Well, that certainly is a nice summary of events," remarked Ritsuko, using a hand to scratch Randall's chin as she spoke. "You seem to have a thorough understanding of why the secrecy was necessary, along with some of the less general details." The blonde suddenly smiled. "Unfortunately, you're also incorrect about a number of things."

This…hadn't been an expected response. "Huh?"

Misato giggled at Shinji's flabbergasted expression; it was so adorable! "She's right, Shinji-kun. Even though the UN conducted an official 'investigation' of the events leading up to Second Impact, there were a few details that…skipped notice."

The Third Child frowned at Misato's word choice. "You mean covered up, right?"

"It is highly probable that the Supreme Commander did not want to risk NERV's operational integrity so soon." This was the most that Rei had spoken the entire evening. "Now that you have shown a willingness to remain a Pilot despite the inherent difficulties involved, you have been cleared to receive classified information."

"…I guess," muttered Shinji, feeling somewhat peeved at how his father had decided to keep certain truths hidden. Still, it wasn't as though he could blame the man; on the contrary, he understood the need for secrecy.

Last year.

A grave that was no longer empty.

Fire. Smoke. Thunder.

Blood.

The boy mentally grimaced at the memory, remembering the painful lesson it had taught him. "…I understand."

Maya blinked. "You sure?"

Shinji nodded, prompting Miyata to chuckle. "Man, you're quick to adapt, aren't ya?"

"He is the son of Professor Ikari. It is only natural to assume that he may possess…hidden depths."

It was a somewhat odd compliment, but the fact that Rei had said it prompted everyone to turn their head. Misato had turned so fast that her hair smacked Shinji in the face. Despite the taste of deep purple keratin, Shinji couldn't help but marvel. Did I hear that right?

"…so, moving on to the topic at hand…" Dr. Akagi cleared her throat, trying to regain control of the conversation. "The official reports do mention the discovery of a second creature called LILITH, yes. However, everything else you've heard is falsified. For one, LILITH was not discovered in the White Moon, the place where humanity found ADAM. There was data found concerning another entity comparable to the First Angel; after some preliminary satellite scans, we discovered – in late 1999 – a facility congruent in size and shape to that of the White Moon, underneath Hakone."

The answer was already there; it just needed the proper question to unveil itself. "The…Geofront?"

Maya smiled. "That's right! It was called the Black Moon when discovered, because of the color of the outer shell, and to differentiate it from the White Moon facility in Antarctica."

"The technology obtained in Antarctica gave humanity a huge boost scientifically, but we'd be hard-pressed to create something like the GEOFRONT in a matter of decades, let alone a few years," admitted Miyata, his engineering background giving him insight into the sheer time, effort, and resources that would be involved in constructing such a monstrosity. "The Geofront was a perfect sphere when it was discovered, with a diameter of precisely thirteen-point-seventy-five kilometers. When Hakone was being refurbished to be a fortress, the top was shaved off to serve as the foundation for the city of Tokyo-3…and the city's only about one-point-five kilometers long at its widest." The male Ibuki leaned back, briefly dizzying himself over the dimensions involved. "We're only utilizing a fraction of the Black Moon as it is."

"Tell me Shinji-san, how do you think we got that ecosystem down here? The mountains, the hills, the cliffs, the forests, the lake?" queried Dr. Akagi. "After all, if we're trying to turn Hakone into a fortress city, what would be the point? Why, when the resources involved could be better spent elsewhere?"

Shinji frowned, putting his mind to the test. If nothing else, he had grown to appreciate that which was practical, especially since anything 'practical' was an uncommon presence in his life. So it made him wonder; for what practical reasons would such an endeavor be undertaken? "Well, the Geofront is the last line of defense, right? If…something goes wrong, it can be sealed up to protect those inside…but you'd run out of oxygen eventually, right?"

Misato grinned, giving the Third Child an impromptu noogie. "Kid's got a brain on him!"

"That IS a plausible guess, yes…" She looked down at Randall – who was now lightly gnawing on her knuckles – before smiling…sadly? "The truth is…it was already there."

"…what?" Shinji shook his head, brain still trying to register that new piece of information. "What?"

"The ecosystem was already in place," explained Maya. "Those lamps attached to the 'roof' of the Geofront? Already there; every single test we've been able to run cannot distinguish between the light provided by those lamps and the actual solar radiation that gets through our atmosphere. The lamps' intensity was even in-sync with the rising and setting of the sun for our geographic position, which is why the investigation still operated on a diurnal cycle."

"But…" The implications were there. "That's…" They were very troubling.

"The facility that is NERV-1? Some of it's new, but most of it was refurbished from buildings and structures already in place," continued Ritsuko, wondering how deep down the rabbit hole the Third Child was descending. "The initial investigations of the Black Moon revealed self-contained chambers that perfectly mimicked biomes all over Earth. Meanwhile, data caches found at the White Moon revealed recorded logs of numerous events throughout history, going back millions of years...and that includes human history."

Shinji Ikari was grateful that he was sitting down; his legs would have given out otherwise. Everything that had happened over the course of his short life had engendered an important lesson, one hammered repeatedly by both his father and uncle: 'given any event, what are the consequences of that event?'

Right now, the consequences of this information provided very frightening possibilities about the nature of the creature called 'Angel'.
"Millions of years…?"

"ADAM, the First Angel. LILITH, the Second Angel." Ritsuko leaned her elbows against the table, her gaze firm and unrelenting. "From what information we've gathered…they've been on Earth for a long time. Since before the time of homo sapiens. And they've been studying us, with no one the wiser."

That…certainly put a new spin on things.

It was generally accepted by the public that the First Angel had been entombed for a long time within the Antarctic wastes. After all, for such a large structure to be completely buried underneath the ice with no one noticing, it had to have been there for hundreds and hundreds of years, right? As far as the UN investigation had revealed, ADAM had been dead to the world…until it awoke.

But to hear that ADAM had been awake? To learn that it had been watching? Observing?

The technology present had already spoken of great intelligence that was far beyond humanity's. But this? This spoke of a creature that had been recording and observing the events of the world, content with leaving things alone.

What had been the catalyst? What would cause such a powerful entity to change course and annihilate an entire continent? "What…what changed? ADAM…could the First Angel communicate?"

Ritsuko shrugged. "ADAM never tried, as far as we know. I would…" The blonde twitched for a few moments, visibly shuddering before taking a deep breath and exhaling. "…I would imagine that it could, given how much information it had about us."

"Then why? Why did it initiate Second Impact?"

"The generally-accepted opinion by the public is that the discovery of the Second Angel was the primary factor, given that only three days elapsed between the time it was found and Second Impact…but you know otherwise, don't you?" Ritsuko's smile was soft yet forlorn, a seeming indication that she knew all too well what the boy was instinctively feeling. "Since LILITH was discovered months before ADAM…we don't know. We just don't know why ADAM caused Second Impact."

Shinji sat in silence, still trying to wrap his head around everything he had just learned. His previous mental imagery, culled from the reports of the UN's investigation and from the words of his own father, would have to be reevaluated. One thing in particular stuck out. "Where is LILITH now?"

"The most secure section of NERV-1 is called Terminal Dogma," answered Misato, her tone subdued. "At the very bottom of Terminal Dogma is LILITH. Secured. Unmoving. As supposedly comatose as we thought ADAM was."

Shinji had a mental vision of the masked giant, sitting stoically in a throne similar to that of ADAM. "And…we've just left it there?"

"There's really nothing that we can do, Shinji-san," lightly admonished Dr. Akagi. "After Second Impact occurred, the biome chambers deep inside the Black Moon were locked down without our prompting. Although Terminal Dogma is the deepest part of NERV itself, the facilities of the Black Moon go down much further…and they were locked down as well. It was as if the Second Angel was telling us to stay away…and for the most part, we have." A spark. "We…" Ritsuko grit her teeth; the seriousness of this conversation did not warrant deranged nattering! "We…"

Miyata patted Ritsuko on the back whilst Maya held a cup of tea in front of her face.

"Ah. Thank you." Ritsuko took a sip, once again retaining control. "We were just doing as humans are wont to do: to expand our reach further and further, demanding to know all the truths of the universe, even though we can barely understand them." A bitter chuckle bubbled past her lips. "It's all so ludicrous…the Angels coming now, only parts of a greater whole, yet capable of ending the world all on their own." The doctor began to hyperventilate, slowly but surely. "It would've been so much easier if those two had just crashed here, or if they had been truly comatose, or even sleeping in death's grip, but no! They were watching! Watching! All the power of the gods, all the intelligence of man, controlled by a will beyond our understanding!" Hands impulsively gripped the edge of the table. "So far beyond us, yet we think we can control them, and GODS, we're still trying! WHY WERE THEY WATCHING US?"

Even Maya and Miyata – having dedicated themselves to keeping their senpai under control for the evening – were cowed by Ritsuko's intensity. Randall, seemingly disturbed by the blonde's emotional outpouring, hopped onto the table in front of her, adjusting the placement of his hind legs. Although Rei was unmoving and Misato kept a stony gaze on her friend, Shinji was feeling the uncomfortable urge to flee from the suddenly unhinged woman.

"Studying us? For what? For what purpose? There is a reason, there's always a reason, even if we can't explain it, even if it's irrational, there's ALWAYS a reason." A serene look suddenly came over the doctor's face, like a cloud briefly blocking out the searing light of the sun. "I've pondered these questions a lot…and I always think back to the time I first pondered them, when I became involved with my dear mother's work." A spiteful snort. "Always looking, always judging…like I was some fool for letting it get to me." The serene look began to crack. "How could it not? The sheer scale of Project E, the gains we've made for the sake of protecting mankind, to prevent a Third Impact…and we still don't know why it all started…were we truly so wrong…?" The woman's tone became despondent, spiraling downward and falling like rain. "We just wanted to learn…we're practically infants in the eyes of the universe…what did we do wrong…?" Her low laughter was downright acidic. "Heh. Maybe we were guilty of breaking a law that we didn't even know existed. Makes as much sense as anything else!" Her eyes went wide, and her lips spread into a full-blown grin. "THAT'S ALL ANY OF IT AMOUNTS TO! Scurrying about, practically living on borrowed time, hoping that we can survive using the cannibalized remnants of creatures WE STILL DON'T UNDERSTAND." She suddenly went quiet; the calm before the storm. "And so I figured…might as well make a show of it! Might as well laugh! MIGHT AS WELL PLAY UP THE MAD SCIENTIST ANGLE! BECAUSE IT WON'T AMOUNT TO ANYTHING IN THE END!"

Shinji was literally too terrified to move, even as he subconsciously cursed himself for not bringing his pocket knife.

It was just so unnerving to have a crazy woman looking right at you.

"WELL? ISN'T IT HILARIOUS?" The woman was practically screaming by now. "ISN'T IT HYSTERICAL?!"

Randall leapt, headbutting his owner on the chin.

The blonde blinked, suddenly struck from her reverie by the cat's unorthodox method of getting attention. "Oh..." She looked down at the orange tabby, her expression melancholy yet relieved. "How in the world do you put up me?"

Randall's response was to meow and purr as he rolled onto his back.

It was at this point that Maya stood up. "You've had a long day senpai. Let's get you to bed."

"Yes…that sounds nice…" The blonde was slowly helped to her feet, held at the arms by the Ibuki Twins. "Forgive my inhospitality Shinji-san…but I feel tired…" The two assistants quietly led the morose doctor deeper into the house, followed quietly by Randall.

Shinji was still staring at the spot Ritsuko was sitting at, still trying to understand what had just happened.

"Well. That actually went quite well!"

The glare that Shinji sent Misato was downright caustic. "MISATO-SAN!" he yelled in an offended tone.

"Shinji-kun, do you think I would joke about this?" Misato nonchalantly took another sip of her sake. "I'm dead serious when I tell you that she's been a lot worse than this."

"But…that was…it's just…!"

"Second Impact screwed a lot of people over, Shinji." The drop of the '-kun' made Shinji stop his rambling. "All the lives lost, all of the damage done…and yet to the Angels, it might not amount to anything." A brief flicker of fury leaked through her voice before it was brutally suppressed. "The true nature of the First and Second Angels remains classified for a lot of reasons…but you just saw one of them. Because some people just wouldn't be able to handle it."

xxxx

/Corpus Callosum, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"How unsightly."

The mind of Naoko Akagi had been very capable of multitasking as a human.

Augmented to operate a MAGI system, that very same mind was able to multitask with a degree of efficiency, magnitude, and speed beyond any living human. At this very instant, she was simultaneously overseeing a number of processes and events.

The coolant from the Lymph Nodes was being cycled out and replaced with a more efficient mixture that she had designed.

As the sun set, she offered conditional agreements to the other three MAGI regarding the proper distribution of electricity on the city's power grid.

She was collating the data gathered from research on the Third and Fourth Angel, analyzing any and all similarities and differences. Another cycle was currently going over reports sent from NERV-Alaska regarding the progress made on weaponizing the samples culled from the Third Angel.

Various cycles were dedicated to observation of the news – televised and digital – gauging public opinion on NERV's performance against the Angels, along with all potential critics. Two cycles were set into a point-counterpoint system so as to determine the actual validity of criticisms, with a third cycle moderating.

One cycle was continuing work on a mod for some popular first-person-shooter, to be eventually released under the alias 'f0rSCI3NCE'. It was a simple hobby to pass the time.

Most of her conscious attention, however, was on surveillance footage from Ritsuko Akagi's apartment.

It was standard operating procedure to have the homes of NERV personnel bugged, but Ritsuko had practically covered her entire apartment with monitoring devices. A few would call it paranoia, but the blonde had out and out told her that it was simply a chance.

A chance to actually watch over her, 'like a mother should', as Ritsuko had phrased it.

My daughter can be exceptionally cruel, wryly thought HEROD as Ritsuko's assistants guided her to her bedroom. "I suppose your little psychosis will make the boy sympathize with you, but it was poor form to lose your control like that."

Control. Self-discipline. Perspective.

Naoko Akagi had long ago considered the ramifications of the discoveries made in the White Moon and the Black Moon. She had proceeded to continue on ahead, adapting to the new reality without complaint. After all, what was the point of fretting over that which was beyond your control? For the time being, the intentions of the First and Second Angel were irrelevant; there was only the protection of humanity, no matter the cost.

It was odd; for all of the hidden fear and anguish that her daughter seemed to experience regarding the Angels, Naoko had likened them to fire. True, they still didn't fully understand the physical and metaphysical properties of Angelic-derived materials (which included all technology attained in that manner, biological or otherwise), but they knew enough to utilize them effectively.

And unlike the intellectual infants that discovered fire, we now have the capacity to contain them. It was only a matter of keeping their tools up to date.

One particular cycle caught her attention with the mental equivalent of an alert message. Within seconds, MAGI-00 was analyzing two different data sets: the first being Shinji's sync ratios from the battles against the Third and Fourth Angels, with the second being a chronologically-ordered report of Rei's medical progress. By all accounts, the young girl had healed faster than predicted,without use of her…other talents.

There was a rather simple explanation.

The core of HEROD chuckled bitterly. "Metaphysical biology…the science of the soul..." Yes, the explanation was all too simple. "I wonder if the boy's presence will make Unit-00 less…ornery." The scientist closed the two data sets, turning her conscious attention towards security footage of Lymph Node-E, where technicians from Section 1 and Section 3 were running a diagnostic on the orange Evangelion. "Either way, you'll get your way regardless…won't you...? Yui."

The woman's bitter ruminations gave way to the scientist's focus as Naoko returned her attention to her duties and projects, briefly reviewing all ongoing processes before the mother's…'concern' brought her conscious attention back to the home of Ritsuko Akagi.

xxxx

/Ritsuko Akagi's Apartment, Tokyo-3, Japan/

"Is Ritsuko-san okay?" asked Shinji as Maya and Miyata walked back into the dining room.

"Senpai will be okay," remarked Maya, a sad smile on her face. "We've grown accustomed to her mood swings, and we're usually able to get a handle on her before she…starts breaking things."

"A lot of the assistants in Section 1 call them the 'Cheer Squad'," helpfully added Misato.

'Helpfully' being relative, given how Miyata's eyebrow twitched. "Ah…I was hoping Ikari-kun wouldn't find that out for at least a little while longer." Not that being tasked with cheering up their boss wasn't a privilege, but it sounded so…demeaning!

"Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi."

Rei's calm voice cut through the uneasy atmosphere with decisive precision. The Chief of Section 2 turned her gaze towards the young girl, asking, "You need something, Rei?"

"I believe it would be prudent to inform Pilot Ikari about Project Nephilim."

This statement elicited a round of blinking from the three adults in the room, prompting Shinji to blink himself. "Huh? Project…Nephilim?"

"Sergeant Ayanami…you sure?" asked Miyata, a look of unease on his face.

Naturally, his worried expression drew Shinji's focus. What's…going on? Why are they so concerned?

"With the impending Jet Alone demonstration, it would be…practical."

Misato suddenly snapped her fingers. "Ah, that's right!" The Lieutenant Colonel turned towards the Third Child, a nervous grin on her face. "I was gonna bring it up earlier, but with all that happened…so Shinji-kun, you ever heard of NHIS?"

"…um…isn't that Nippon Heavy Industrial Systems?" NHIS: a major defense contractor and scientific research institute, with its headquarters based in Tokyo-2. "What about them?"

"One week from now, Nippon Heavy Industrial Systems is unveiling an anti-Angel weapon that's currently codenamed 'Jet Alone'. The demonstration will be taking place on the outskirts of Tokyo-1, and a bunch of bigwigs are gonna be there; military officials, politicians…" Misato sighed out of irritation. "Of course, given the nature of the event, NERV needs to send a representative…and that's me."

"…Jet Alone…" Shinji let the name roll around his tongue a few times, trying to get a grasp of the concept. An anti-Angel weapon, not designed by NERV? "Will…it actually do anything? I mean, is there actually a chance it could be effective against the Angels?"

Misato shrugged. "Beats me. We won't know until the demonstration occurs…but I do know a couple of things." The Lieutenant Colonel poured herself some more sake, appreciative that Ritsuko had gone for the good stuff. "It'll be a Gundam of some kind…nothing quite like any they've made before, I'm certain. It'll also be piloted by two people…and the pilots are both nephilim."

"Um…" Shinji nervously scratched the back of his head. "Is that a term I'm supposed to know?"

Miyata laughed as Maya helpfully explained, "Well, not exactly. Anyone with sufficiently high ranking in the military would know…and it doesn't technically involve the Evangelions, so I guess your father didn't say anything."

Shinji sighed. More secrets. However necessary they were, it was still annoying.

Rei, on the other hand, knew exactly why the Supreme Commander had kept it a secret. It was…comforting…and yet…why did she feel a slight sense of trepidation? How odd.

"So…Project Nephilim." Misato leaned back, giving one last glance at Rei before taking the proverbial dive into the deep. "It was 2005. Research into the technology obtained from the Black Moon and the White Moon had reached new levels, moving beyond the anti-Angel weapon we now call Evangelion. There was the lingering question if an Eva, being created from genetic material cloned from the First and Second Angels, could even be controlled by purely human pilots."

"It was for that reason, among others, that GEHIRN initiated the project," continued Miyata. The man inhaled deeply, as though mentally preparing himself for his next statement.

Shinji felt…strangely anxious. Why are they so nervous? This talk of 'purely human' pilots…and the use of Angelic genetic material…wait. Were they…?

Miyata looked Shinji dead in the eye. "Ikari-kun. The project's goal was to create viable hybrids. Human…and Angel. These hybrids are called nephilim."

The Third Child blinked. He had long gotten used to the knowledge that Evangelions were gigantic cyborgs whose bodies were Angelic in nature. To be honest…it wasn't that surprising, per se, that GEHIRN – and, by proxy, its successor NERV – would seek alternate applications. "I…I see." Still, there was a degree of inhumanity to it; how did…'nephilim' think? How different from humanity were they? How much was Angel and how much was human? And…why was Ayanami looking right at him?

What is…she thinking? It was a thought that Shinji had often had concerning the Sergeant, particularly during and following the first training session. Her skewed perspective, her freakish strength, her…oh.

Oh.

Things fell into place.

Ayanami's attitude. Ayanami's power. Why his father had said there were 'issues' with her upbringing. Why Misato and the Ibukis had reacted nervously at Ayanami's request. Her blue hair. Her red eyes.

"I get it." Shinji looked into those red eyes, as if searching for anything similar to the two Angels that had perished by his hand. "You're a nephilim."

"Yes," stoically replied the First Child, revealing nothing of her reaction towards his realization.

The Angels. The four that had appeared thus far had been…otherworldly. What human features they possessed had been paradoxically inhuman; even the pictures that Shinji had seen of ADAM and LILITH – despite their humanoid appearance – were striking in their alien essence.

Everything about them was beyond humanity in power and presence.

"Shinji-kun?" Misato asked, her guarded expression – oddly enough – revealing how worried she was about his reaction.

Shinji did not reply. He was mentally juxtaposing the Angels…with Ayanami.

The first time he had met her. Despite her injuries, she had wanted to pilot Unit-01. Even though she had bluntly made her opinion of his potential known – right in front of his father, no less – she had wanted to defeat the Angels just as much as anyone else.

His first day at school, where he had seen her as a fellow student. Where he had seen her conversing with the other Class Representatives at lunch. Looking for all intents and purposes like just another girl. A very pretty one, at that.

Here, now, where she was staring at him with such intensity. It was…humbling, to realize just how much revealing this mattered to her, even if she didn't show it…okay, maybe he was overreaching just a tad. "A lot of things make more sense now." Shinji inhaled, gathering his conviction. Regardless of the nervousness that made him scratch the back of his neck. "Well…I can't really speak for any other nephilim, but you're just another girl as far as I can tell." He paused before briefly chuckling. "You know, except with super-strength."

The Ibukis visibly sighed with relief while Misato squealed. "Aw, you hear that Rei? Such a gentlemen!" She wrapped her arm around the boy's neck – inadvertently (or perhaps purposefully) mashing his face against her bosom – and gave him a friendly noogie. "He's a keeper!"

"MMRPGH!" screamed Shinji as he tried to pull himself away.

Rei Ayanami kept on staring, revealing nothing. However, she was in the midst of analyzing her mental reaction. I feel…relieved. This is…a pleasant feeling. Why? The blue-haired nephilim settled for sipping more of her tea before standing up. "If you'll excuse me, I'll be right outside on the veranda."

Shinji – having finally extricated himself from Misato – watched as Rei stepped out of the dining room, her military uniform bringing another question to mind. "How old is Rei?"

"Huh?"

Shinji turned his gaze towards Misato. "I mean…she has a military uniform. She had some ribbons for time served, and a couple I couldn't recognize." This train of thought changed tracks, taking him to a different, more unsettling location. "But…if that's the case, then why is she in our school, in our year?" Another destination, even more disturbing. "But if Project Nephilim began in 2005…shouldn't she be...ten years old?"

Cue another exchange of looks between the adults. "Well Ikari-kun, we sorta weren't finished talking about Project Nephilim, " muttered Miyata. "We were just glad that you didn't outright freak out about the Sergeant being a nephilim."

"…why would I?"

"Because nephilim are the fusion of humankind with genetic material derived from godlike beings who are now seemingly focused on annihilating us?" offered Maya.

"Within the space of thirty minutes, I've learned that the Second Angel is still alive and aware inside the Geofront, that ADAM and LILITH have been on Earth longer than humanity has, and I've witnessed Ritsuko-san experiencing what most people would call a 'psychotic breakdown'," replied Shinji in a droning monotone. "Compared to all of that, finding out that Rei is part Angel actually explains a lot. Plus, I don't think my father would let her go to school if there was a chance of her suddenly flipping out and killing everyone."

Maya and Miyata stared before the former said, "You were right Miyata-kun; he IS quick to adapt."

The Third Child shrugged. Adaptation was something he had become rather adept at, in his personal opinion. How could you not with a father like Gendo or a cousin like Annette? "So…you were saying something about this project?"

"GEHIRN was a UN agency, hidden though it was," continued Misato, her cheeks showing not one bit of flushing due to copious amounts of sake she had already consumed. "When this project officially began, there were…conditions. From GEHIRN's perspective, it was about creating a hybrid being that could hopefully synchronize more easily with an Evangelion, in the event that a human couldn't do it."

Given the circumstances behind why Shinji himself could pilot Unit-01, he wisely decided not to broach the subject. "I'm sensing a 'but'."

Misato grinned bitterly. "Even though the major powers had stopped fighting each other following the Valentine Treaty, wars were still going on all over the world. Terrorists, rogue nations, mercenaries...South America, Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia were still hotspots following the formal 'conclusion' of the Impact Wars. Given the human costs involved in restoring just a little measure of order…and given that GEHIRN still possessed a monopoly on research into Angelic technology at the time…"

Shinji quickly drew a conclusion, his expression growing dark. "They wanted weapons."

"Specifically, soldiers. Something that UN forces could use in combat with causing excessive environmental damage."

"The process of creating nephilim…wasn't easy at first," stated Maya, eyes downcast as she recalled words from Ritsuko. "Senpai was working here before all aspects of nephilim creation were handed over to NERV-Lyon and NERV-5 following GEHIRN's formal dissolution. After all, her mother was involved in the project from the beginning, along with the Professor and…your mother."

"My mom?" Shinji blinked out of surprise. "I…didn't know." Anything involving his mother, as a general rule of thumb, was open for (mostly awkward) discussion with his father. The man had never shied away from talking about her, their work at GEHIRN, and the insight she had possessed regarding the nature of the Angels and the Evangelion. Was this project that much of a secret?

"Yui Ikari, Gendo Ikari, and Naoko Akagi. They were the three members of GEHIRN who initially began research into the possibilities of genetically engineering hybrids, although it was Akagi-senpai's mother who took effective command of the project upon its official inception in 2005," added Miyata. "At first, it was small stuff, like cell cultures. What they discovered though was amazing; although the First and Second Angels were made of exotic matter that defies the conventional laws of physics, a thorough examination of their DNA – at least, the Angelic equivalent of DNA – revealed a sequencing pattern that was ninety-nine-point-nine-eight percent similar to human DNA."

"...huh?" Now the Third Child was well and truly confused. "They're that similar…and yet they're made of…I mean…huh?"

Misato giggled. "Aw, he can be flummoxed!"

Maya smiled. "It's okay Ikari-san. The formal study of Angelic DNA is titled 'crystalline DNA theory', and that field is still in its infancy, relatively speaking. However, this similarity was invaluable; it increased the probability of any hybrids surviving." Her smile quietly vanished. "Eventually, they moved beyond working with cells and tissue, and moved on to human embryos." When Ritsuko had gotten to this part…the sheer emptiness on her senpai's face…Maya sighed, bringing herself back to the present. "The first generation of nephilim…well, they were like Unit-00, in a sense. Proofs of the concept. Test models. Where the breeding, cloning, and aging techniques they had researched were refined and perfected. Once that was done, the second generation of Project Nephilim began. It was at that point that one of those 'conditions' came into play."

Shinji felt a strange chill inhabit his gut; the grim look on Maya's face was unsettling. "What condition was that?"

"Once GEHIRN perfected the process of creating nephilim, they could no longer create new ones at will; they now had a finite limit on the number of nephilim they could have on hand for the purposes of research. Anything beyond that?" Miyata absent-mindedly nibbled on a lukewarm piece of gyoza. "Commissions only."

"Commissions?"

"Member nations of the UN, if they attained approval from the Security Council, could commission GEHIRN for the creation of nephilim for their own military forces, provided that they provide the embryos. Once the embryos were attained, GEHIRN would then splice them with genetic material from the First or Second Angel. Cloning would ensue, followed by artificial aging to anywhere between the ages of six and eight. Anything beyond that would result in…'instability'." Misato chucked down the rest of her sake in one gulp.

"Wait…I…I don't understand…" Oh, Shinji understood, all right. He just didn't want to. "Child soldiers? But…that's illegal! It's a war crime! How
could-?"

"Using child soldiers is a war crime if they're humans, Shinji," muttered Misato, a dark look settling on her face. "Nephilim were unlike anything ever seen before. They could lift cars! They could project fields that could repel bullets! Crush objects at a distance! No one cared that they looked like children…because using them for special operations would save the lives of hundreds of soldiers, maybe even thousands. For them, the decision was easy." The Operations Director grimaced as she poured more sake. "It doesn't matter anyway…from a legal standpoint, nephilim are the property of whoever commissioned their creation. No ifs, ands, or buts about it."

Shinji was silent, his expression blank.

Then he stood up, walking away from the dinner table. "Excuse me."

"Ikari-kun?" Miyata frowned, a worried expression on his face. "Where are you going?"

"I'm going to talk with Ayanami-san."

xxxx

The sun had since slipped beneath the horizon, its tremendous radiance giving way to the weaker light of the moon and stars. The blue-haired nephilim found the nighttime glow…soothing, compared to the brilliance of day.

It brought comfort, even though she couldn't exactly pinpoint why.

Why did I find relief in Pilot Ikari's reaction? Although the existence of nephilim was still a well-kept secret – all instances of their military successes were off the record – Rei knew the range of opinions regarding her…kin, she supposed would be a proper term. Most were ambivalent, declaring them a necessary evil. Others were…less charitable.

Regardless, she was aware of her purpose in life.

She sensed the presence of Pilot Ikari before he even opened the door to the veranda. His footsteps were slow, but not tentative. He was here with purpose, regardless of his instinctive wariness regarding her abilities.

Yes; he had defied her initial expectations. Perhaps that was why she was feeling so…odd, around him. Her objections to the Professor regarding his piloting aptitude had been rendered pointless. However, what she was feeling was not embarrassment, nor was it shame; those were feelings she associated with disappointing the Supreme Commander, and that was not what she was feeling.

So…why?

"What was it like?"

Rei glanced at the Third Child, who was looking at the darkening sky, eyes focused on the stars. "You will need to be more specific."

"…growing up. I'm…curious, is all."

He had far more to ask; the nephilim could tell that much. About what was still indeterminate. "There are many facets regarding my growth. Please be more specific."

The Third Child sighed out of obvious irritation.

It was though he had expected her to know what he wanted to ask about. Such an expectation was…commonplace in the daily interaction amongst students at the school, from what she had noticed. Despite her small ring of…compatriots amongst the Class Representatives, she still had not mastered this art. Perhaps I should offer suggestions. "Are you curious about how I was acclimated to the outside world? Are you curious about how the Supreme Commander saw to my upbringing? Are you curious about my nature as a nephilim?" Before she could say anything else, the boy spoke up.

"Your…time in the military."

Ah. Her dress uniform. A fairly innocuous thing to ask about. "What about it?"

"Why do you have that uniform?"

Now the boy was being daft on purpose. She was sure of it. "Because I served in the military," she said with a wary stare.

"I know, but that's…" The Third Child sighed, this time out of frustration. "I'm trying to think of what to say."

"What is there to think about? I have this dress uniform because I served in the SSDF."

"That." The boy seemed to hang on to a particular part of her phrase. "The SSDF. Where did you serve?" His eyes fell upon her military ribbons. "I recognize a few of those…one of them is for the Military Medal of Honor." Following Second Impact, Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution had been amended, removing the prohibition against waging war, enabling Japan to once again use the threat of force – implied and actual – to settle international disputes. Upon the organization of the Japanese Strategic Self-Defense Force, a number of older military decorations had returned, including the Military Medal of Honor. "For meritorious service above and beyond the call of duty."

For some reason, the Third Child sounded upset. This decoration was for exceptional service. Being the son of the Supreme Commander of NERV, one would assume that he would be impressed.Apparently not. "Yes. This ribbon is for the Military Medal of Honor." Perhaps he was simply wondering how she had come to earn it. "Awarded for rescuing multiple squads under heavy enemy fire and for killing Rosarita Cisneros, thus forcing the terrorist organization El Baile de la Muerte to unconditionally surrender."

"Rosarita…" Shinji paled. "You mean…Roberta the Bloodhound…?" It was a name that had captured the attention of the entire world for a good portion of 2010. Her organization – El Baile de la Muerte, i.e. The Dance of Death – had carved a bloody swathe from Colombia through Central America and into Mexico. Everyone had been astounded by the lengths she had gone to exact vengeance upon the Mexican and Central American warlords that had killed the head of the prestigious Lovelace family. Her carnage had served as a clarion call for revolution throughout Central and South America, sparking another series of wars that had required intervention by the UN on behalf of its member nations. Eventually, attention had turned towards Mexico, where the Bloodhound had gone hunting for the warlords that had gone into hiding. The very government of Mexico, entrenched as it was in corruption, had fallen into chaos…and it had been left to the UN to restore order.

The Mexican Campaign – concluding the Central American Wars of 2010 – had been hard-fought and surprisingly bloody, given that it involved a single terrorist organization – albeit a large and well-armed one, with many of its members being soldiers of various nations from Central America and South America that had fallen under Roberta's thrall – against a UN coalition consisting of American, Canadian, French, British, and Japanese forces. The last conflict of the war – the Battle for Mexico City – had quickly gained notoriety as one of history's most famous battles.

"And you…you were there?"

"Yes." Ikari's body was suddenly full of tension. "You are…displeased."

"It's just…" The boy grit his teeth, trying to keep a lid on his anger. "...how…" He seemed to be maintain some measure of self-control. "How old are you?"

Among all the questions she had expected, that had not been one of them. So much so that she actually replied, "Pardon?"

"Your age. How old are you?"

"…this body is of the second generation of Project Nephilim, physically less than ten years old. However, assuming you mean how old I am physiologically, I am fourteen years old." Did she need to add another qualifier? Perhaps. "Like you." There; that should do it.

"…so you were only nine years old when you served in the military…?"

Rei did not miss the cold tone in his voice, as though he were…in disbelief. "Yes."

"…why…" The boy was looking truly despondent now. She had answered his questions satisfactorily, hadn't she? "Why were you there…?"

He desires more background information. Very well; he had earned this much. "As per NERV's charter, all employees who are of legal age are required to serve for no less than one month in a military contingent recognized by the UN. The mandated time for the period of service is no longer than three months, although they can gain an extension with permission from the Commander of their respective NERV facility. Being a nephilim, the laws are different for me, so I was able to serve in the SSDF for two months. My period of service happened to coincide with the entirety of the Mexican Campaign."

"That doesn't tell me why!" The Third Child was shouting now, his eyes bearing a strange emotion that Rei couldn't quite quantify.

She would later learn that it was the look of one who had been betrayed.

"I served in the SSDF because the Supreme Commander ordered me to."

"…that's…" His voice was trembling. "That's it?"

"Yes. For the purpose of fully developing my inherent abilities as a nephilim, so I could learn how to control the power at my command. It was necessary."

"THERE'S NOTHING NECESSARY ABOUT SENDING A KID INTO A WARZONE!" roared the Third Child, his sudden outburst actually surprising the Sergeant.

She hadn't expected him to be so…upset. Why is he upset? It was actually quite irritating; for all intents and purposes, she had accomplished her goals over the course of the Mexican Campaign. The Supreme Commander himself had congratulated her on her accomplishments. Why didn't his son have the same perspective? "Are you questioning your father's judgment?"

The boy looked at her as if she had gone insane. "What 'judgment'? Of course I am!" Ikari's teeth grit together, his eyes beginning to shimmer with unshed tears. "No excuse…no excuse…I don't care what his reasons were! He was wrong to send you there!"

In an instant, her hand was wrapped around his collar.

In the next, his back was on the ground, her foot applying twenty pounds of pressure to his chest.

She hadn't felt this heated in a while. Not since the day Ikari had arrived in Tokyo-3.

It felt…invigorating. "Say that again."

xxxx

Shinji Ikari had gone through a bit of a loop tonight, to say the least.

He usually tried his best to be the even-headed one, to try and go about things in a reasonable manner. For example, his father's work; he had long been aware that the work of NERV was highly-classified, due to the Angelic technology involved. He had long been aware that his father was viewed with suspicion and paranoia by many people for a variety of reasons.

He had even been aware that some were willing to kill his father because of his position.

Nonetheless, his father had never hidden the importance of the task given NERV, nor had he tried he tried to hide how heavy the burden of being an Evangelion Pilot would be.

Saving the world from Third Impact, after all, was no small task.

Still…Evangelion wasn't the end-all, be-all of NERV.

Child soldiers.

If there was one thing that Shinji's uncle had tried to do during his seven years in Okayama, it was to instill conviction. 'You know my opinion on what the idiot father of yours is doing, so I won't even try to convince you otherwise. You will be thrust into an adult's world at such a young age…and you will have to make decisions. Painful ones. Above all else…I can only ask that you do what is right.'

Tomoe had reiterated that lesson many times over.

Protect the weak. Help the innocent. Do what is just. Condemn that which is evil. Have the courage and conviction to do all these things, no matter how afraid you were.

Tomoe had been a policeman in Kyoto before Impact, and he had passed on the lessons he had learned to his nephew.

At this moment, Shinji questioned if Tomoe's attitude about his father had been…entirely unjustified.

Child soldiers!

It didn't matter that nephilim had super powers. It didn't matter what their legal status was.

How could you, father?!

The boy's back collided with the ground, and the breath in his lungs was pushed out by a dainty foot pressing against his ribcage.

Shinji Ikari looked up at Rei Ayanami, going still at the look in her red eyes.

Not quite fury...not quite anger…yet it was an expression that he hadn't seen on the Sergeant's face since arriving in Tokyo-3. She was actually showing irritation on her features… but to a greater degree. "Say that again."

Shinji suddenly realized that Rei Ayanami could easily crush him.

Right now, he didn't care. "My father was wrong to send you there."

The blue-haired nephilim's frown became sharper, revealing her obvious displeasure. "Then you are a fool."

"How am I a fool?" screamed Shinji. "Sending a kid to fight in a warzone? That's ludicrous!"

"I am not human. Whatever beliefs you may possess about children being soldiers does not apply."

"Why not?" The boy watched as the First Child's eyes narrowed, taking the chance to go further. "You go to school with everyone else. You talk with people…" He remembered that look in her eyes at the dinner table, the relief when he had accepted her nature as a hybrid of human and Angel. "Your body may not be pure human…but you're human in every way that counts!"

For a moment, the blue-haired girl seemed…puzzled, by his words. It quickly passed, however. "Then you would condemn to death the lives of many."

Shinji blinked at the sudden swerve. "…what?"

"Creating nephilim was a reality. GEHIRN was subject to the will of the UN. The potential of nephilim in combat was apparent from the start." Her voice did not waver, did not falter; her opinion on the matter was as resolute as his. "In the Central American Wars, nephilim were used in special operations. Their successes prevented casualties that would have occurred otherwise. Clad in black, we traversed the battlefields like ghosts." The Sergeant increased the pressure on his chest ever-so-slightly. "My actions alone saved at least one hundred men and women. Would you condemn them to death because you feel that it was 'wrong' for me to fight?"

There was hesitation now. The Sergeant had given him a concrete reality; she had personally saved over one hundred soldiers. Would her absence from the field of battle – the absence of nephilim entirely – have resulted in their demise?

Rei, seemingly sensing his uncertainty, pressed forward. "Are you so different from me, Pilot Ikari?"

Shinji's eyes snapped open. "What?"

"You have been aware of Evangelion for many years, even before Marduk selected you as the Third Child. You were aware that an Evangelion needs a child as a pilot. You yourself have partaken of a war of your own choosing, a war against the Angels. So tell me...is it also wrong for you to fight?"

In most scenarios, this would seem like a rather devastating blow. After all, he was participating in a war as an active soldier of sorts. The hypocrisy seemed evident on the surface.

However, Shinji's mind returned to his first day of training. "You're doing it again…"

Rei blinked.

"Just like when you compared our spar…to a battle against an Angel…" Shinji inhaled deeply, trying to ignore how painful Rei's foot was. "It's not the same."

Rei's eyes narrowed. "Elaborate."

"Evangelions…aren't like guns…they can't be used by just anyone," wheezed Shinji. He recalled the day where his father had revealed to him the truth of the Contact Experiment. "Without a soul…the Evangelion can't move…and the soul of the Evangelion can't connect with just anyone…"

"To move the Eva, you must open your heart to it," murmured the First Child on reflex, as if recalling a memory from long ago.

"And I…I was told over and over about the danger. I knew from the beginning what would be awaiting me when I returned to Tokyo-3…but I chose to come anyway." Shinji's gaze hardened. "If my father hadn't ordered you to go…would you have fought anyway?"

The answer was immediate. "If the Supreme Commander had not ordered me to go, then I wouldn't have." Shinji's initial elation was quickly dashed when she added, "I had no desire one way or another regarding that war. My purpose is to pilot Evangelion; following Professor Ikari's orders is pursuant to that purpose."

Somehow, that set Shinji off even further. "Don't give me that…"

"I have faith in your father's work. I believe that he knows what he is doing." She paused, looking oddly at him. "I think that you believe that to. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here."

…okay, she's got me there. That was the thing; Shinji DID believe in his father. That's why this entire conversation had even gone the way it had…because he didn't want his faith to have been misplaced.

"I am…curious." Shinji turned his attention back to Rei, who was now looking at him with a quizzical stare. "Why is it that you are so offended by the fact that I served in the SSDF?"

Ah. He had been building up this point. "My father once told me…that passing down our sins to the next generation is one of the most despicable things that we can do." It was a phrase that was entirely consistent with Tomoe's own philosophy; each generation had its own problems to deal with. Burdening them with the troubles of their predecessors only compounded their difficulties. "But it's an imperfect world, so sometime's it's unavoidable…I understand that." Shinji breathed with difficulty, his lungs straining against the pressure brought by Ayanami's foot. "But to willingly involve the next generation…?" Shinji wheezed, resisting the urge to cough as he gaze determinedly at the face of his fellow Pilot. "The war against the Angels is for the very survival of humanity…it's different from a mere human war. So…I don't care about the advantages a nephilim has in battle; purposefully involving an innocent child in an adult's war will never be okay. That's a line that should never be crossed…and I don't care what my father's reasons were."

The First Child stared at him with a quiet intent, her expression pensive…yet calculating.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, she removed her foot and stepped away. "You are...strange, Third Child." With that said, she quietly walked back inside, leaving Shinji alone on the veranda.

…you're just as strange…Ayanami…

xxxx

"Tell Dr. Akagi that I was grateful for the invitation. Would it be permissible for me to leave?"

"Sure, go on Rei-chan. Don't forget your drills!"

The First Child briefly shot the now-tipsy Lieutenant Colonel a queer look. "You are aware that I never forget."

"Eh, first time for everythin'."

The Sergeant absorbed Misato's words before calmly saluting her superiors. "Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi. Lieutenants Ibuki." The young girl turned on her heel, the long skirt of her dress uniform flowing behind her as she departed from Ritsuko's apartment.

The Ibuki Twins suddenly slumped onto the nearby couch, the tension leaking from their bodies like LCL. "Gah…that was…I mean…"

"I know, Miyata-kun," concurred Maya, knowing full well where her brother's train of thought was going. The trio of adults had been spending the entirety of the last ten to fifteen minutes eavesdropping on the Pilots' conversation from an open window.

The mood had been…strained, to be charitable. "For a moment, I thought that she would have…well, that she might have-"

"She wouldn't have killed the kid," interrupted Misato, who was now pouring what was left of the sake into her tea cup. "It would have made the Professor go ballistic. Sides', Cute Bruiser is prohibited from fatally injuring a fellow NERV employee."

"…I guess, but she actually looked upset."

Misato mulled over the male Ibuki's words. Then she sipped her spiked tea. "Eh, she practically lives and breathes self-control. She wouldn't have hurt him."

It was at that moment that Shinji trudged into the dining room, wearily rubbing at his chest. "Where…where'd Ayanami-san go?"

"Decided to leave." Misato shrugged as downed the rest of her beverage, eyeing the bottom with suspicion. "Meh…no more…" She tilted her head towards her charge, flashing a jaunty grin. "So kiddo, ready to go home?"

"…Misato-san, you're in no condition to be driving."

"WHUT?" The woman's face, flushed red from both anger and inebriation, leapt to her feet. "I am perfectly capable of WHOA-kay, maybe not." She went down just as quickly, barely catching herself before her face hit the floor.

Maya and Miyata sighed. The former looked over at Shinji and said, "Maybe it would be best if you stayed here for the time being…unless you feel comfortable going home on your own?"

Shinji smiled wearily. "Actually…I was just gonna take a little walk." I need to…think about things. "I guess Misato-san can just sleep off her hangover here?"

"Wouldn't be the first time," muttered Miyata.

"Heh heh heh…passed out drunk on Ritsky's bed…just like college!" slurred a giggling Misato.

Shinji rolled his eyes before bowing to both of the Ibukis. "Could you give my thanks to Dr. Akagi for the wonderful meal? Tonight was…very revealing."

Both of the Ibukis smiled as they knelt down to pick up the drunken Lieutenant Colonel. "We're just glad that senpai made a…second impression on you," said Maya, a nervous grin on her face.

Shinji settled for waving before departing.

The moment he left, Miyata said, "Dibs on the couch."

"Wha? Come on bro, ladies first!"

"You're my sister, you don't count."

The only sound in the house now was playful bickering as the Ibukis carried their superior to Ritsuko's room.

xxxx

Shinji wandered.

His feet seemed to move of their own volition as he took in the sights of Tokyo-3's downtown on a Saturday night. Glowing neon lights, bustling crowds…you wouldn't have thought that two Angels had attacked the city recently. The teeming masses of individuals, going to and fro about Shinji…it provided a distracting background noise.

Oddly enough, it gave him a greater opportunity to mull over what he had to do next. Given what he had learned tonight…there was no choice but to acquire some form of closure.

But how?

That was the one question that occupied his attention for the entirety of his trek. If one term could describe what he was doing, it would be…soul-searching, in a sense.

Through downtown. Past a string of apartments. Onto a forested trail on the outskirts of the city, taking him along the layered mountainside of Owakudani, the air rife with steam from the sulfuric vents of the volcanic mountain. Eventually, he found himself near a grassy field, the bright skyline of Tokyo-3 still within sight.

All of a sudden, he paused, wondering what time it was…and then he sighed, deciding that it didn't really matter.

…I won't run away.

Shinji Ikari calmly took out his NERV-issued cell phone and dialed a number that he knew by heart.

Unsurprisingly, it only took a few dial tones before he was answered. "I was wondering when you'd call."

The voice of his father, never lacking in fervor. A man who always spoke as if he knew all of the answers.

It was time to test that. "Then you saw…everything?"

"Surveillance is standard for most NERV employees, and your position is being tracked by Section 2. Your status as a Pilot warrants nothing less."

"…so you know why I'm calling then." The boy sniffed, trying to collect his thoughts. What he wanted to do was rant and rave, and ask what his father had been thinking. However, all he could muster was "Why?"

"Among the other reasons that the Sergeant told you, there was one…practical reason."

"And what is that?"

So his father told him.

Quite frankly…Shinji didn't know what to think. "…you honestly believe it will come to that?"

"After the things I've had to deal with in this line of work, it is an utmost certainty in my mind."

"That's…pretty depressing."

"That is why that all I can do is shore up our position. For the foreseeable future, all you have to worry about is defeating the Angels. And doing your school work."

The boy couldn't help but snicker at that line; school work was the least of his worries. "Well…still…"

"You know…I wasn't entirely honest that day. When we discussed your contract."

"…what?"

"The truth is…Rei was meant to be your replacement." Before the enormity of that statement could knock Shinji to the ground, Gendo added, "At least, with regards to piloting Evangelion."

"...what?"

There was a sigh on the other line. It was one of those sighs that Gendo had mastered, in the sense that the remorse was so subtle it was practically invisible. "Ritsuko Akagi's mother was the one who originally conceived the idea of splicing an Angel's genetic material with human beings. When your mother and I looked at the proposal, do you know what Yui told me?"

"…what did mother say?"

"She said…" Brief hesitation, vanishing in a mere moment. "...that we had found a way to keep the burden of Eva from our son."

Shinji's throat impulsively convulsed. Don't cry, don't cry, not when you're talking to father, don't cry! "I…I see…"

"We both worked with great…zeal, alongside Naoko Akagi, laying the groundwork for Project Nephilim." Another sigh. "Unfortunately, we soon learned the truth about the Evangelion, about its need for a soul of its own."

"To move the Eva, you must open your heart to it," murmured the Third Child, recalling the First Child's statement from earlier that evening.

"Yes. In the end, Rei Ayanami was created to serve the needs of NERV. The restrictions due to UN supervision on Project Nephilim limited what actions I could take in regards to her treatment. I…tried to do as much as I could."

"…I'm still mad at you though. And I still think you were wrong."

His father chuckled. "Of course I was wrong. There was no right decision, so I settled for the most efficient choice. Hopefully, your conversation with Rei will change things."

"Huh?"

"The prism through which Rei views life is inexorably tied to Evangelion, to NERV, to me. Putting her into a school has broadened her horizons, but the prism still remains." There was another chuckle, dry and laden with self-recrimination. "Maybe you'll be the one who finally enlightens her to…alternatives in life."

It was at that moment that Shinji knew that his father had put a lot of thought into his actions, like he had with everything else in his life. Regardless of how wrong sending Ayanami to fight in a war had been, at least he now knew that his father hadn't made the decision callously. Or maliciously, for that matter. "Do you really think that?"

"Son, I would jump for joy – figuratively speaking – if Rei were to one day condemn me for what I've done to her."

"That's…harsh."

"I deserve nothing less."

After that, there was a long moment of silence. What could Shinji add to that? "…okay then…thank you for answering my questions."

"I suggest that you get some sleep. You have a busy week ahead of you. Good night son."

"Good night father."

Click.

Shinji's gaze turned upward to the stars, becoming lost in the infinite sea. Man…I'm tired…

"Yo."

"GAH!" yelped Shinji as he turned on his feet, adrenaline pumping through his system at the sudden interloper. "…Aida?"

"Hey, Ikari!" exclaimed the bespectacled Gendotaku, clad in jungle camouflage.

"…what are you doing here?"

"Foraging, survival training, that kinda thing," he said in a flippant manner, as if it were no big deal. "Now lemme ask YOU the same question; what are you doing here?"

"…going on a walk."

Kensuke blew a raspberry. "LAME. Come up with a better excuse than that! I heard ya talking to your dad."

Shinji impulsively wondered how much Kensuke had overheard until he realized that his part of the conversation had been…lacking in specifics. "Oh..."

"I heard you say something about Eva. Lemme guess: top secret? Classified? Omerta?"

"…yes. My conversation with my father involved classified…stuff."

"Gotcha!"

…I really don't have time to deal with this. As cold as that seemed, Shinji was in no mood for antics of any sort. "Look…I'm sorry if I seem so short with you, but it's been a long night…and I'm really tired." How the heck am I gonna get back to Misato's apartment?

"Ah…lost track of time then!" The boy jerked his thumb toward the grassy field, where a small clearing had been patted down. "You can crash in my tent if you're too tired to get back home. I've got a spare sleeping bag."

"Really?"

"Of course!"

"…thanks…" Shinji couldn't help but grin. For all his oddities, Kensuke was a genuinely nice guy. "Thanks, Kensuke."

The Gendotaku blinked at the use of his given name before grinning widely. "Any time, Shinji!"

As the two boys walked through the tall grass, the Third Child found solace in the fact that his day would close on a mostly pleasant note.

"You know, if you had a jet pack, you'd be able to get back to your house REALLY quickly."

"…why would I use a jet pack to travel?"

"Because it's a jet pack! I mean, I've seen your old man do it at least TWICE!"

Key word being 'mostly'.

xxxx

To be continued…

Next time…

Episode 8: JET ALONE

xxxx

(And so we get a look at the slightly different background of this story compared to canon.)

(And by far the biggest change: actual communication about their problems and differences!)

 

[Ultra Sonic 007]

/Two Days Later/

/October 5, 2015/

/Test Chamber ATTG, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Rei Ayanami calmly waited for the critical moment. Technicians from Section 1 and Section 3 spoke in mostly monotone as they checked off familiar items. Initiate activation system, phase one. Nerve junctions starting up. Circuits warming up. Etcetera, etcetera.

The nephilim let the words drown away, letting herself relax…letting her heart open itself to that of the Evangelion.

However, her mind was having…difficulty.

Ikari. Son of the Supreme Commander. Pilot of Unit-01. A strange individual.

His opinions regarding her service with the JSSDF had occupied much of her thoughts. They were illogical, inefficient. Nonetheless, his fervor and conviction – even in the face of someone with the power to utterly crush him – had been…admirable. Yes. Despite my misgivings, he has remained to fight against the Angels. Only one who had tremendous confidence would do so, right? It was logical.

Right?

"Initiate activation system, Phase Two!"

And yet he showed fear during training, when we engaged in a simple spar. Did that fear contradict the conviction she had seen? Did one circumstance of fear contradict the existence of courage in another instance?

"Pilot link-up initiated!"

Strange…he is very strange.

who

The soul of Unit-00. It was finally emerging.

me

The last time she had tried to synchronize with the Evangelion, it had violently rejected her.

rage

Yes. Rage was a suitable word.

you…YOU

"Preparing for third stage connection!"

I am Rei Ayanami. You are the soul within Unit-00.

we are pale imitations

I am I.

you are not the original

I have never claimed this. I am I.

"Nearing absolute borderline!"

Rei's eyes opened, her soul and that of the Evangelion seemingly in conflict. Her eyes fell upon the sealed windows of Chamber ATTG, where she could see a number of individuals.

Dr. Akagi.

she is one to be pitied

The Supreme Commander.

as much a fool as I

Pilot Ikari.

who

Ikari. The son of Professor Ikari.

shinji

…yes. That is Shinji Ikari, Pilot of Unit-01.

…so be it

"We have cleared absolute borderline! Sync ratio is at forty percent!"

Cheers erupted from the observation chamber.

The soul of Unit-00 receded, acknowledging her presence, her primacy as Pilot. Thank you. Rei's eyes focused on the window, zooming in on the Supreme Commander and his son.

Gendo Ikari was stoic as always…but his son was smiling. "Congratulations, Ayanami-san!"

Ah. He must have been told about the last activation attempt. He was congratulating her for succeeding.

His praise was…agreeable.

xxxx

Episode 8: JET ALONE

xxxx

/Three Days Later/

/October 8, 2015/

/Demonstration Center, Outskirts of Tokyo-1/

Preparations were underway with great haste.

The prefabricated dome structure had served as the host for many military demonstrations in the years following the Impact War. The plutonium-241 bomb that had leveled Tokyo-1 removed any worries regarding collateral damage, and the radiation level had decreased by more than half since 2000 – since plutonium-241 had a half-life of fourteen years – so more and more of the old capital was becoming usable with every passing year. Plans were already in place to rebuild the city starting in 2030, so defense contractors were making use of the real estate while they still could.

Technicians from NHIS were busy setting up the computer terminals that were needed to monitor the Jet Alone Project. A gas-powered generator was being set up in the 'arena' – a massive field of rubble and ruin – three miles away from the Demonstration Center. Everything was being cleaned immaculately.

NHIS was sparing no expense in making sure the demonstration went as smoothly as possible.

One thing that must be noted, however, is that the company that maintained the Demonstration Center was fairly low-maintenance. In other words, it knew not to ask questions if the client seeking to rent the place out needed to run their own 'inspection'.

So when a small team of NHIS technicians – just one of many that had come over the past few weeks – had arrived to make one last inspection of the electrical system, the company had let them through. After all, their identification checked out, and a prompt call to NHIS had given them all the confirmation they needed.

Even though the badges and identification codes had been forged.

Even though the call had been intercepted in-transit by the Tokyo-3 MAGI, upon which HEROD had perfectly imitated the NHIS representatives.

It's not like the company knew, right?

It wasn't their fault that the team of technicians – all of them belonging to Section 2 – proceeded to discreetly bug the Demonstration Center before declaring the facility 'sufficiently up-to-date for NHIS's demonstration.

For all intents and purposes, the company considered it a glowing endorsement.

xxxx

/Tokita's Office, Alpha Site, NHIS Research and Development, Osaka-1, Japan/

This was the office of a workaholic; papers laying about in a chaotic manner, with various empty beverage cans and folders topping everything that could be used as a table. The dim light from a large lamp illuminated various designs on the walls, detailing various aspects of Jet Alone.

Given that this was his work office at Alpha Site – and not the plush, fancy office reserved for meeting VIPs or visiting researchers from other branches of NHIS – Shiro Tokita excused the mess.

Tokita sat in front of his computer, inwardly marveling at the totality of research done over the course of the Jet Alone Project. Innovation regarding the use of Kleinium. Synthesis of new metals for vital parts. Tactile sensors. New advances in manipulating electromagnetic fields. Innovative applications for ferrofluids. More efficient fuel cells. The Mobile Trace System. It was hardly an exhaustive list.

Of course, the most important facet of the entire project – the very lynchpin – was the one that would turn everyone's heads.

Two days.

Mana Kirishima was working herself into a frenzy, casually depopulating the local population of octosharks – a post-Impact order whose members tended to congregate around flooded cities – to pass the time. Mayumi Yamagishi had settled for reviewing the commandprocesses and mechanics of the Jet Alone Project, mostly to distract herself from the fact that she had been ordered to forgo the dye and glasses for the demonstration.

Even Hikari Kirishima had agreed with him on that part; letting the observers know that the pilots were nephilim went a long way towards mollifying the fact they were also children. Nonetheless, it had to be nephilim; normal humans wouldn't be able to utilize the Jet Alone to its utmost effectiveness.

After all, nephilim reacted faster, lasted longer, fought longer. They could keep on going like the proverbial Energizer bunny, to borrow a phrase from one of the American members of the MTS development team.

Two days.

Tokita sighed, ruffling his dark hair before turning to his desk. And to think…this almost never happened. The man quietly opened a drawer, shuffling aside various manuals and papers before reaching a small switch near the top of the drawer. A small click sounded; he then reached under the desk and reached into the compartment that had opened. In it was a crumpled piece of paper, worn and weathered.

On it was a single typed line.

USE IT WELL​

Granted, the letter had arrived at the doorstep of his home five years ago with something else; a single flash drive.

On that flash drive had been files. Notes. Diagrams. Schematics. All of them describing a particular technology…and judging by the various references throughout, it had come from the White Moon in Antarctica.

The notes and diagrams had since then transcribed to paper, painstakingly by Tokita's own hand. The original flash drive had been destroyed, but only after copying the data onto another flash drive made by NHIS, with his own security protocols that would render the data useless if accessed in an improper manner. The paper notes were now hidden in a folder, used only for reference; his memory was good enough for most occasions. The folder itself was now hidden, with the location known only to him.

Five years already…

The knowledge from his mysterious benefactor's flash drive had enabled him to get approval for this project in the first place. It had been the idea that convinced the Board that the Jet Alone was worth their time and money. Given that this had been shortly after the public announcement regarding the formation of NERV, it provided NHIS a perfect excuse to create their own anti-Angel weapon.

The fuel cell designs and the Mobile Trace System alone would guarantee a successful return on NHIS's investment.

But this…

Tokita had often mused on the irony of it all. During his tenure at NHIS, he had often been called ambitious, or visionary, long before the Jet Alone Project had been a twinkle in his eye. And yet the idea they praise me most for was practically handed to me.

Oh well. He would never lose sleep over a gift. Especially a gift that worked.

Oh, by the gods, how it worked.

Just two more days.

The true face of the Jet Alone Project would finally be revealed, and Evangelion would be left in the dust.

xxxx

/Two Days Later/

/October 10, 2015/

/Misato's Apartment, Tokyo-3, Japan/

"Okay Shinji, I'll be gone for most of the day, so make sure to report to the Geofront for your afternoon training."

"Um…yes…ma'am?"

In all honesty, it shouldn't have bewildered Shinji that Misato was capable of looking professional.

However, it was an innocuous brand of weirdness, far removed from the insane weirdness that he dealt with on a daily basis. Clad in a navy blue dress uniform – the skirt going down to the calves with slits along the sides just above knee level, with a red collar and cuffs, rounded out by white buttons and similarly-colored trimming over the edges of the uniform – she looked like someone deserving the title of 'Operations Director' in a paramilitary organization.

It seemed that Shinji wasn't the only one who felt flabbergasted, judging by Pen-Pen's shocked expression.

Misato giggled, her nature bleeding through the professional exterior. "Come on Pen-Pen, I don't look that weird."

"…wark."

"Bah, you're just being grumpy."

"Wark!"

"OW OW OW!" exclaimed Misato as the penguin pecked at her bare ankles, her feet clad in heeled shoes made of black leather. "Okay, okay! Geez." With a huff, she turned towards Shinji and flashed a brief smile. "Well, take care!"

"Uh…sure." Shinji tentatively waved as Misato opened the front door and departed. "…huh." The Third Child took another bite of toast before turning towards Pen-Pen. "Wasn't that kind of harsh?"

Pen-Pen snorted before gobbling down the last of his sardines. "Wark." With that dismissal, the penguin waddled towards the couch and plopped down, flipping open the daily newspaper toward the Financial section.

…the sad thing is that I'm getting used to this.

Shinji sighed as he finished his breakfast, eventually departing his current abode and beginning the trek to school. As he walked – moving in and out through the various crowds of people, an image that cemented Tokyo-3 as a bustling city – his thoughts turned to the events throughout the last week. Along with the physical training he had been taking with Misato and her team, it was now supplemented by various tests with the Evangelion.

Tests lasting over an hour, consisting of nothing but him 'thinking' at Unit-01. A thorough look at the layout of the city, so that he could gain an instinctive understanding of where all of the defense platforms and elevator shafts were. Experiments in the 'Pribnow Box', where he tried to synchronize with 'simulation bodies' that bore neural data uploaded from Unit-01.

Quite frankly, the simulation bodies were weird. They were like pseudo-Evangelions, but without a true core, without a true soul of their own. Even with neural data uploaded from Unit-01 – a mental 'frequency', or 'pattern', based off of his mind's interactions with Unit-01 – they only replicated the feel of his mother's soul. It was hollow, empty.

Artificial.

It couldn't hold a candle to the real thing, and for the life of him, he didn't understand why they needed to do it.

Unfortunately, Dr. Akagi's answer to that question was two parts 'scientific mumbo-jumbo' and three parts 'because your father would complain if I used a spoon to get the brains instead'.

Even armed with a more in-depth knowledge regarding her 'condition', she still freaked him out.

Then there was the matter of Ayanami. She had been…oddly subdued, even more so than usual. Her usual interactions with the people in her social circles – namely, NERV personnel and the school's Class Representatives – were shorter, less robust.

Maybe I've given her something to think about?

"SHIN-MAN!"

"GAH!" yelped Shinji, jumping at the sudden sound. He turned, seeing that it was none other than Toji. "What was that for?"

"Been trying to get your attention for like, a whole minute," drawled the taller boy. "You were seriously zoning out."

"Oh. Well…I've had a lot to think about lately."

"So do a lot of other people. You got a better excuse?"

"…no?"

Toji sighed out of exasperation. "Whatever."

Shinji and Toji were now on a first-name basis as well, mostly by proxy through Kensuke. Suzuhara was rather gruff, but he had (mostly) gotten over the destruction of his apartment during the battle with the Third Angel. In a way, his adolescent bluster was comforting to be around.

After all, a rough and tumble teenage boy who went out of his way to act as 'the tough guy'? How much more normal than that could you
get?

As the two neared Tokyo-3 Municipal Junior High, they saw a crowd gathered in the school yard out front. "Huh…what's going on there?"
muttered Toji.

"Toji! Shinji!"

Kensuke waved his hand to grab their attention, his other hand wrapped tightly around a video camera. "Hurry up guys, we've got a potential situation!"

Shinji blinked while Toji's eyes narrowed. Once the duo became a trio, they slid through the crowd of seventh through ninth-graders, eventually reaching the edge of the throng.

Among the things he had expected to see, Shinji did not expect to see Rei standing beside a ninth-grade student, who had apparently decided to just kick back and relax. Given the presence of a ninth grade Class Representative beside the two, this was not appropriate conduct.

"You have been informed repeatedly by Representative Tachikawa regarding your tardiness. You will report to your homeroom."

"Look kid, that octogenarian that teaches my homeroom keeps prattling on about Second Impact. I ain't going."

On the sidelines, Shinji could hear various whispers and mutters about the new student. Judging from what he was hearing, he was one of those whose parents had just been hired by NERV following the battle with the Fourth Angel, necessitating a move to Tokyo-3. It looks like he's been causing a hassle for his Class Representative.

"This is gonna be so sweet," murmured Toji. "Let someone else get reamed for a change!"

Shinji rolled his eyes as Kensuke continued to roll the camera.

"Ain't my fault my homeroom has a crappy teacher. I'll head back in after the first period's over and done with, okay?"

"Truancy is not tolerated."

The older boy snorted. "Whatever, kouhai. I ain't listening to you." Clearly, this was an individual used to getting his way.

Rei's eyes narrowed, causing Shinji to gulp; it was that look of casual scorn, one that he had become very familiar with during his initial arrival to Tokyo-3. This…won't end well.

The First Child quietly reoriented herself, now standing behind the head of the incalcitrant ninth-grader. Judging by the sleazy grin on his face, he was enjoying the view. "Look baby, not that I don't mind the view, but-"

CRACK!

Everyone went silent.

The habitual truant's perverted expression had morphed into one of pure shock and fear, judging by how his eyes dilated at the sight of Rei Ayanami's fist embedded one whole foot into the ground.

Ground comprised of concrete, mind you.

The older student looked back up at Ayanami, who was on the verge of outright glaring at him. "You will do as Representative Tachikawa says. Is that understood?"

The young man whimpered.

Rei decided to add some heat to her voice. "Is that understood?"

"YES MA'AM!" screamed the older student as he scrambled to his feet, high-tailing it into the building.

Shinji barely heard Toji mutter 'pansy'.

Rei stood – revealing that her hand was utterly without blemish – turned her attention towards the crowd. "You have five minutes until class begins."

It dispersed almost instantaneously, leaving only Shinji, Toji, and Kensuke.

After Rei acknowledged the gratitude of Representative Tachikawa, she turned her gaze towards the trio. "You should get to your class."

There was the familiar stoicism. What happened? "…it's…well, it's weird to see you raise your voice like that."

"I have come to understand that certain people do not respond well to demands unless your decibel level is sufficiently high," remarked the First Child. Then, almost as an afterthought, she added, "I…dislike those who disregard the inherent command structure. It never ends well."

Shinji arched an eyebrow at her choice of words, silent as Rei walked into the school. What was that about?

"Meh. She didn't even put her hands on him. He could've at least tried to take a swing at her!"

"Toji, that just means the guy's intelligent."

"He could've at least tried to leave with his pride intact. I mean, look at me; I've managed to get away with not wearing the school uniform!"

"That's just because our Class Rep keeps covering for you."

"Pfft. You're such a comedian Kensuke."

Shinji let the two banter back and forth as they ventured into the school, his mind drifting to the demonstration that Misato was heading to. The Jet Alone…I wonder what it's like?

xxxx

/Demonstration Center, Outskirts of Tokyo-1/

The Heavy VTOL's engines dimmed as Misato and her lone Section 2 escort stepped out. "Well, here we are." She glanced at her escort, who was technically her subordinate, given that she was the Chief of Section 2. It was a shame that the demonstration began at one in the afternoon; had it occurred later, she would have been able to bring the Spy and the Engineer as her escorts. Oh well, beggars can't be choosers. Besides, this guy's got a good track record anyway. "Well Hiruma-san, ready to go?"

The Section 2 agent – clad in the 'MIB' get-up – scratched at his bushy black beard before readjusting his shades. "As always, Katsuragi-oyabun."

The Chief of Section 2 lightly punched her subordinate on the shoulder before they headed towards the entrance. Numerous helicopters were parked on the large heliport outside the Demonstration Center, all no doubt belong to businessmen in the defense industry, UN military officers – JSDF and otherwise – and politicians from Tokyo-2.

Honestly, Misato thought that this was not her kind of avenue. Bah. As far as she knew, the Supreme Commander would be busy overseeing the transfer of a new weapon to NERV-1 (which was something he normally left to Lieutenant Hyuga, so it had to be something enormous; maybe it was that new positron rifle developed by NERV-3?), Sub-Director Fuyutsuki was dealing with the paperwork involved in the temporary transfer of the Mark 06 from NERV-2 to NERV-1, and Ritsuko was poring over reports from NERV-Alaska regarding their research on the samples of the Fourth Angel, which had been sent earlier that week.

This left Misato Katsuragi as the lucky one to represent NERV. Joy.

After being cleared by security, she entered the main hall of the Demonstration Center. Having been here a few times before, she had to say that NHIS's presentation was fairly above-average; large round tables lined the room, each one laden with hors d'oeuvres and bottles of sake and wine. The main podium stood in front of a massive banner, tied to a large divider bearing the colors of the Japanese flag.

OFFICIAL UNVEILING!

THE JET ALONE PROJECT REVEALED!

ON BEHALF OF NHIS, WE WELCOME YOU​

One other thing that caught Misato's attention was the fact that almost everyone else there was casually ignoring NERV's table.

The message was loud and clear: everyone expected NERV to be shown up by NHIS.

Misato grumpily munched on an eel roll. "We save the world twice, and they still want to see us knocked down a peg. Ungrateful jerks."

"I completely agree, Katsuragi-oyabun."

"They're just upset because NERV's getting a bigger share of the loot."

"Absolutely, Katsuragi-oyabun."

"And your continued brown-nosing's going to get you reassigned as a school janitor when we get back to Tokyo-3."

"Of course, Misato-sama."

Misato's eye twitched.

"Ladies and gentlemen!"

About TIME, thought Misato as she gazed at the main podium. A man – no younger than thirty, if she had to guess – with neatly-combed black hair was speaking. So this is the head of the Jet Alone Project.

"Thank you for your patience, and thank you all for coming." The man spoke with clarity and verve; he wanted the audience involved, even though the main attraction hadn't arrived yet."We will soon commence with the official demonstration. First of all, I want to offer my gratitude to NERV for graciously allowing us to use an Evangelion for the Jet Alone's first live combat exercise. A round of applause for the lovely representative they've sent!"

Damning with faint praise, thought Misato, her face schooled into a small smile for the crowd. Implying that Eva's only good for being a test dummy for your precious Jet Alone.

"The Evangelion is currently being delivered via aerial transport, and it should arrive within twenty minutes. As for the Jet Alone itself…" The main theatrically shifted the sleeve of his green bomber jacket, pointing at his watch. "It…or, I should say, they, will be launching from our research facility in Osaka-1 in approximately…thirty seconds."

Misato blinked. They?

xxxx

/Launch Facility, Alpha Site Annex, NHIS Research and Development, Osaka-1, Japan/

"Beginning the countdown!"

Technicians scurried to and fro as twin rail guns finished extending from the launch facility; the Alpha Site Annex was situated near the large highway that connected Alpha Site with the mainland, serving as the gateway through which supplies and personnel came arrived at NHIS's research complex.

The most recent additions were the two magnetic rail launchers, built adjacent to the Annex's cargo airport. Affixed to each launcher was a metallic shell fourteen meters in diameter, cylindrical and aerodynamically-shaped.

"Fifteen! Fourteen! Thirteen!"

A magnetic charge began to build up; protective barriers rose from behind the rail guns, reaching upward for several meters and stretching along the ground to protect the facility from the shockwave that would ensue when the locks were released.

"Six! Five! Four! Three!"

Everyone went still, eyes affixed on the twin launchers.

"Two!"

The hopes of NHIS were lying entirely with the contents inside those shells.

"One!"

After so many years of hard work…it was finally time.

"LAUNCH!"

A high-pitched crack split the air.

The two spheres rocketed through the sky at over three kilometers a second. Wind resistance and friction were minimized by the shell's design; with four hundred and three kilometers separating Osaka-1 and Tokyo-1, it would take less than three minutes for the twin projectiles to arrive at Tokyo-1.

However, this demonstration called for…theatricality.

Approximately thirty kilometers outside of Tokyo-1, the shells burst open. The honeycomb framework that was providing stability for the contents inside fell away, and the shattered shells harmlessly fell to the countryside below, where a team from NHIS was waiting to retrieve the debris.

Glimmering in the sun, the face of the Jet Alone was revealed.

Twin jets – each bearing similar color schemes, predominately white with solid blue and red mixed in – gleamed in the afternoon sun as the their engines kicked in. Glowing exhaust erupted from twin nozzles as the jets shot off towards Tokyo-1 at Mach 2. At twelve meters long, both jets were similar in design, though their preference for color varied. The fuselage for one was predominately red and white, while the fuselage for the other was predominantly blue and white; by contrast, their wings were of opposite colors. The black cockpits were opaque, revealing nothing of their pilots. A large compartment sat underneath each fuselage, entirely white and curved aerodynamically. Underneath each wing were smooth compartments, containing vital parts for the aircrafts'…other features.

The most eye-catching feature was undoubtedly the pair of sharp, golden prongs emanating behind each cockpit, in a very distinctive V-shape.

They would arrive at the Demonstration Center in less than one minute.

xxxx

/Demonstration Center, Outskirts of Tokyo-1/

"I'm sure everyone here is aware of the tale by now," continued Tokita as two monitors extended from behind the partition bearing the Rising Sun's colors, each one showing a timer counting down to zero. "The gallant and illustrious NERV, tasked by the United Nations to safeguard the Sword of Uriel, to prevent the Angels from using it to cause the Third Impact!" The man let his grandiose tone dim, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper that was amplified by his microphone. "It's a very moronic tale, not even worth one yen."

Misato twitched.

"Why should we let our future rest in the hands of an organization with so much power? For all intents and purposes, they're above the law, but no one dares say otherwise. After all, it's considered bad form to insult your 'guardian'." Tokita gave off a wild grin; the man was clearly enjoying himself. "I, however, think it's time to EXPAND our horizons!"

The ceiling began to retract; soon, the entire room was awash in the light of day…and the sound of something approaching in the air. "Everyone, direct your attention above me."

It was at that point that the timer on the monitors hit zero.

A rumbling sound echoed through the air as two colorful fighter jets slowed to a stop above the Demonstration Center, hovering in place with a directed jet thrust. Sounds of awe and curiosity began to emanate from the spectators; Misato, on the other hand, narrowed her eyes. The Jet Alone is a pair of…fighter jets? If so, they were incredibly small; most fighter jets were over eighteen meters long. This can't be all of it…

"They are quite colorful, Katsuragi-oyabun."

"Yeah. Colorful," grunted NERV-1's Operations Director.

"The Japanese have a long and glorious reputation as a people that can come together in times of crises, conforming and acting with a singular will. That spirit is embodied in the Jet Alone Project; tremendous might, wielded by pilots with immaculate teamwork!" Tokita's grin contorted to a wicked smirk; even if the audience had been a quarter of this size, he would've still relished this chance to reveal the result of so much hard work as theatrically as possible. "But above all else…we are versatile." The man dramatically raised his right hand and shouted aloud as he snapped his fingers. "HENSHIN!"

The two jets glowed.

Everyone gasped at the sight; parts began to move about, and the very form began to shift. Misato gaped at the sight; a few pieces were moving mechanically, but everything else…it was unbelievable. How…how are they doing that?

"Very unconventional, Katsuragi-oyabun."

"Seriously Hiruma-san, shut up."

"Of course, Misato-sama."

Misato twitched at the man's even tone. She was his boss; he should at least act a little afraid, even if his attention was preoccupied by the sight above.

The transformation was complete within seven seconds.

In the place of two fighter jets were two nine-meter tall Gundams, humanoid in fashion and bearing designs similar to Japan's infamous Prototype Gundam. As they descended onto the auditorium beside Tokita, the features became clearer; the heads bore a heavy resemblance to the classical Gundam style, with green eyes, a white facemask and helmet, and two golden prongs stretching up in a outstretched V. The legs were predominately white, as were the arms and shoulders. Both of their humanoid hands were gunmetal gray, possessing impressive articulation. Both Gundams' pauldrons bore red trimming, and their breastplates each possessed a green orb and two golden parts embedded near the sternum.

The similarities ended there, but only in terms of color. For the trimming on the feet, the one to Tokita's left was red, while the one to the right was blue. The one to left had both forearms covered with thick blue vambraces, while the one to the right had only one blue vambrace on its left arm, which was thicker and bore a more complicated design. The breastplate on the left Gundam was solid blue, while the right Gundam's was blazing red. The torso of both Gundams was partly visible underneath the breastplate, and the colors were again switched; red on the left, blue on the right. The one to the left bore oblong blue and red armor on the side of its calves, while the one to the right had no such decoration. The right one did, however, have a long blue staff affixed to its back, an obvious weapon of some kind.

Similar in design and appearance, but bearing contrasting characteristics. Like siblings.

"Ladies and gentlemen, behold the true face of the Jet Alone Project!" shouted Tokita, now fully in the moment. The two monitors then shifted from the timer to the images of young women; the monitor above the left Gundam showed a lithe, silver-haired girl clad in a black bodysuit; the only major decoration was the Rising Sun on her sternum. The monitor above the right Gundam, on the other hand, showed a girl with long blue hair, her body clad in a similar bodysuit that was white instead of black.

The red eyes and pale skin only made them look more exotic…more dangerous.

"To your left, we have Pilot Mana Kirishima and the Shining Gundam! To your right, we have Pilot Mayumi Yamagishi and the Rising Gundam!" He spread his arms out wide, eyes twinkling with unadulterated delight. "THIS is the culmination of Nippon Heavy Industrial Systems' Jet Alone Project!"

Spontaneous applause erupted from the crowd, save for the residents at NERV's table.

Even Misato couldn't help but be impressed by the reveal. Man's got a sense for drama, I'll give him that.

As the roof closed back over the Demonstration Center, Tokita looked at the crowd, knowing that they were eager for answers. "While we're waiting for NERV's prized weapon to arrive, I will now take some questions."

A flurry of hands rose, and an NHIS secretary carried a wireless microphone to each person. The first person to get it made Misato arch an eyebrow; it was one of the JSSDF officers that had been present at NERV-1 during the Third Angel's attack. "General Sakamura, Strategic Ground Self-Defense Force. What are the armaments for your…Gundams?"

"I do want to keep a number of them a surprise for the demonstration. We do have some conventional weaponry like vulcan cannons, but a majority of the armaments created over the course of the Jet Alone Project are experimental…in fact, I can show you one right now. Mayumi?"

The Rising Gundam turned towards Tokita as Mayumi's voice echoed out through the mecha's speakers. "Sir?"

"Please activate the Rising Naginata."

"Of course, Tokita-san."

With great dexterity and ease, the Rising Gundam removed the blue staff from its back and held it forward as Tokita continued to speak. "Within the staff is its own fuel cell of our own design, which powers the multitude of devices within. With the press of a button," The Rising Gundam pushed one red button along the staff. "A shaped magnetic field is generated, parallel to the direction of the staff and localized. After all, with regards to other magnetic materials, we don't want our weapon to be too attractive." Judging by the grin on his face, the pun was intentional.

Somewhere in the audience, Hikari Kirishima's face was meeting her palm.

"With the ability to generate and manipulate an electromagnetic field like this, certain applications become child's play."

As Tokita said that, the Rising Gundam flipped a switch along the staff. Almost instantaneously, a shaft of dark metal – about two meters in length – seemed to phase into existence from the tip of the staff, shifting into place as if made of liquid. This occurred within the blink of an eye. "We then utilize ferrofluids. The magnetic field generated by the staff is shaped precisely so that the ferrofluids congeal to form the blade of the naginata…and the edge of the blade is molecular in thickness. When the blade needs to be withdrawn…simply press another button." The Rising Gundam then pressed a yellow button near the tip of the staff; instantly, the first magnetic field dissipated whilst another one was generated, this time charged so as to withdraw the ferrofluid back into the staff. With a flip of the switch, the staff closed, locking the ferrofluids in place."To summarize, the famed progressive weaponry developed by NERV has met its match."

A round of applause broke out, causing Misato to bitterly smirk. Hmph. If I didn't know any better, I'd say that these Gundams were made solely to try and one-up the Evangelions. Naturally, this was to be expected; few would be upset if NERV's monopoly on defending humanity from the Angels was broken. To break that monopoly, anything made would have to match the Evangelion in at least some aspects.

The microphone was handed to a fairly young man in a gray suit. "Hanzo Yagami, Nippon Heavy Chemical Cooperative. What is powering these Gundams?"

"Advanced fuel cells of our own design. Much more efficient than all current models. When using the Shining Gundam's most powerful weapon continuously, its fuel cells lasted for over twenty minutes, which in and of itself improves on the Evangelion's power supply by three hundred percent. Keep in mind, that's when using its most powerful, energy-intensive weapon, CONTINUOUSLY." Tokita let the thought settle in before continuing. "In an idle state, it took over two weeks of operation before the fuel cells depleted by one quarter. After further testing, we interpolated the results; given the expected amount of activity that would occur during an Angel battle, we estimate that both the Shining Gundam and Rising Gundam can fight for seven hours without recharging. And that's an incredibly conservative estimate."

More excited whispers echoed through the crowd. Misato's nose wrinkled from the slight.

"Then again, perhaps I'm being too harsh. Might we offer NERV's representative a chance to counter my words?"

Misato twitched as the NHIS secretary offered her the microphone. With a calm tone, the Lieutenant Colonel replied, "The Evangelions are very power-intensive, true. However, we can afford it; the Angels are drawn to us. WE choose the battlefield. An Evangelion is never far from a power junction, so the issue with its internal power supply is not crippling. We're a strictly anti-Angel weapon; however, since you have to cater to other 'clients', you need to worry about that sort of thing." Hah! Take that.

In response, Tokita couldn't help but chuckle. "A calm and logical defense…of inefficiency, that is."

Beneath the table, Misato's free hand was clenching madly, desiring a neck to strangle.

It was at that point that Shining Gundam began to…stretch.

No, seriously. It was flexing its arms and rotating its shoulders. Tokita took note and asked, "Is something wrong Mana?"

"I'm bored, and I'm getting the kinks out."

"Koushiro Izumi, Pineapple Robotics! Your Gundams seem remarkably…human, in their motions. What kind of control apparatus are your pilots using?"

"Ah, now that is an innovation that can be credited to the Jet Alone Project's Dr. Tomino and his magnificent team of engineers!" As he spoke, the monitors showed a pair of computer-generated images; on one screen was an image of Shining Gundam, while the other was of Mana Kirishima. Both were standing at ease. "The means by which our pilots control their Gundams is MTS, the Mobile Trace System." The monitor showing Mana zoomed in towards the suit, focusing on one section of the suit by the elbow. "Their bodysuits are lined with thousands of kinetic sensors, and their Gundam's internal programming corresponds to the pilot's movement." The image zoomed out as the CG Mana flexed her arm; perfectly mimicking her on the other monitor was the CG Shining Gundam. "However, there must be a degree
of interaction with the physical, so the suit is lined with what we call a 'tactile layer'. When in their mecha form, the Shining Gundam and Rising Gundam are covered with thousands upon thousands of tactile sensors that translate the physical sensation of touch to the pilot." A rock suddenly appeared beside the CG Shining Gundam; it reached down to crush it. "For example, if there is an obstruction that needs to be removed, then as the Gundam's mechanically-enhanced strength slowly crushes it…" Mimicking the Gundam was the image of Mana, seemingly crushing an invisible rock. "…the tactile layer in the pilot's suit becomes charged and constricts, corresponding to the force going against the Gundam's hand." Tokita looked back at the audience, smiling as the real Mana did some flexing in the Shining Gundam. "To be more clear…if the Gundam holds something, the pilot feels the same sensation. If the Gundam walks up an incline, the pilot walks in a similar manner. If the Gundam crushes an Angel with its bare hands…the pilot feels resistance in the same manner."

"It's a perk!" exclaimed Mana.

How delightfully psychotic, thought Misato, though no small part of her was agreeing with the nephilim's sentiment. To be fair, it was a very innovative control system, which would undoubtedly many applications in various industries.

"Admiral Theodore Cunningham, UN Naval Command." The Englishman spoke quietly as a translator conveyed his words in Japanese. "I am…curious about how your Gundams changed form. It wasn't mechanical…not in the conventional sense. How did they do that?"

"I would like to know that as well," whispered Misato as she took a sip from a sake bottle.

"I believe everyone would, Katsuragi-oyabun."

Misato shot her escort a piercing look. "Seriously. I'm usually game for witty banter, but not now."

"If you insist, Misato-sama."

That's it. I'm demoting this guy to janitor duty at Shinji's school! Yes, this was remarkably petty, and yes, it wasn't 'technically' a demotion. But hey, Chief of Section 2!

Once the translation was finished, Tokita nodded out of understanding. "Ah yes…the technology that enables Henshin." Tokita smiled. "Classified. NHIS copyright. The most important development of the Jet Alone Project, and one I can't divulge in its entirety. Needless to say…you've already seen it in action."

Frustrated grumbles rumbled through the crowd.

"Speaking of action…" He looked back at his watch. "It's almost time for the Evangelion to arrive. Let's head up to the Control Room so we can observe the demonstration…ah, one last question from NERV?"

Misato stared in stunned silence at Hiruma's raised hand. As the Section 2 agent grabbed the microphone from the NHIS secretary, the Lieutenant Colonel quietly growled, "Hiruma. What are you doing?"

Agent Hiruma stood, readjusting his black shades before speaking. "All I have to say…well, one word will suffice. Lights."

The room was suddenly plunged into darkness.

Panicked shouts suddenly erupted, while the military officers – and security guards – immediately went on edge. The twin Gundams were now the only source of light, the slits on the side of their helmets opening to reveal headlamps. Misato, to her credit, stayed put until her eyes could adjust. Part of her was wishing that they hadn't closed the roof after the two Gundams had arrived; the rest was too busy wondering how in the world her Section 2 agent had gotten suborned. An infiltrator? A traitor? Or maybe Hiruma was replaced while I wasn't looking?

A stage light suddenly illuminated the far left part of the auditorium…and standing there was Hiruma.

Misato gaped. What…is he doing?

As if ignorant of the fact that he had essentially hijacked the debut demonstration of NHIS's brand new weapon, the Section 2 agent casually snapped his fingers.

The stage light then became a strobe light, flashing every fourth of a second and accompanied by a fast-paced drum riff. With each flash, everyone could see the Section 2 agent in greater stages of undress…and then…redress? Was he putting on a new outfit?

The strobe light stopped…and a moment later, the stage light erupted once more, revealing none other than Gendo Ikari – in his standard uniform, cloak and all – standing with his hands outstretched in a theatrical manner, one hand holding the microphone and the other holding a false beard, bushy and black.

Everyone was gobsmacked. Misato, in particular, looked like she was about to faint. Professor…Ikari…?

The Supreme Commander of NERV calmly spoke into his microphone. "Actually, the demonstration begins right now."

The room lightly shook as a rumbling sound reverberated through the walls. Mana impulsively yelled, "What just happened?"

"That would be the Mark 06 landing outside in the arena," nonchalantly replied Gendo. "The Fourth Child is waiting for you."

There was a pause.

Then the Shining Gundam emitted a delightful cackle. "HA! FINALLY! Come on sis!" The thrusters on the Gundam's back came alight as Mana rocketed through the roof. The Rising Gundam quickly followed through the hole as Mayumi shouted, "Wait up Mana!"

Everyone was still stunned into silence.

"This performance has been brought to you courtesy of NERV. Lights." Every light came back on, allowing the Professor to witness the flabbergasted looks on everyone's faces.

Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi, in particular, was panicking. Most likely because she had threatened to demote him, thinking him to be a mere Section 2 agent. Not that I needed more blackmail material on her, but this will provide an amusing story for her peers.

"…this…is unexpected."

Gendo turned towards Shiro Tokita, who was regarding him with a wary eye. "I certainly did not expect the Supreme Commander of NERV himself to crash our unveiling of the Jet Alone Project."

"It's not my fault I wasn't invited. The lack of a formal invitation made this necessary."

Tokita couldn't help but chuckle, conscious of the fact that Hikari Kirishima was glaring daggers at him from the audience. Yes, Kirishima-san, I get it; the fact that he's here is bad news. "You're as eccentric as the rumors say."

The Professor coolly shrugged as he hopped off of the auditorium. "What can I say? I have a taste for the dramatic." The crowds seemed to part for the strange man, his sudden appearance having made an enormous impact.

Katsuragi, however, did not move.

Probably because her current thoughts were along the lines of ' Oh crap oh crap oh crap I was insulting my boss what do I do WHAT DO I DO'. Something like that.

The Professor calmly said, "I'm certain that Dr. Akagi will enjoy the sight of you being so flustered."

Misato blinked as the Supreme Commander continued walking.

It was as if he had stopped solely to let her know that she had just been punk'd.

…gah. The Lieutenant Colonel sighed wearily as she turned around and followed her boss. The Professor's antics were much less enjoyable when they occurred at your expense.

To be fair, the shocked and indignant looks on practically everyone else's face made up for it.

xxxx

Mana Kirishima was a little disappointed at first. That's…not Unit-01.

The design of the Evangelion's armor was mostly identical to Unit-01's, save for the color scheme: predominantly white, with shades of gray – varying between silver and gunmetal – along the abdomen, forearms, shins, and feet. The only visible differences were the long fins along the forearms and the design of the white helmet: it evoked images of a shogun, with its swept-back fins and dark gray facemask. The eyes of the Evangelion were covered by a red visor, making the Evangelion look more robotic than it already did.

Sure, it looked cool, and at over forty-two meters, the Evangelion was almost five times as tall as their Gundams. Still, it wasn't the same one that had killed two Angels.

Eh, can't always get what you want. The cockpit of her Gundam was a hollow cavity filled with a liquid gel solution that served as a buffer against the G-forces one would experience while piloting. Mana's body was covered in a metallic frame of thin rods and plates – almost like an exoskeleton, suspended within the gel by steel cables – that provided a stable platform within the cockpit (after all, it wouldn't do for a sudden collision to send her tumbling within the cockpit, resulting in the Gundam itself tumbling). Thick wires ran from small nodes in the bodysuit's back to junctions in the cockpit, providing the means by which the Mobile Trace System interacted between the suit's sensors and the Gundam itself. Her head was encompassed by a black, spherical helmet, through which visual, auditory, and other sensory information was transmitted, along with a steady supply of air from the outside.

From Mana's point of view, it was as though her normal eyesight came with an HUD, displaying her vital statistics and the operational status of her Gundam.

"Hey!" shouted Mana, her voice echoing through the Shining Gundam's loudspeakers. "Could you open a video communication link? I wanna see the guy whose ass I'm about to kick!"

Moments later, an alert pinged in her field of vision, signifying an incoming transmission. Judging by the fact that the Evangelion was now covered in a blinking red outline, the Shining Gundam's onboard computer was telling her that the transmission originated from the Eva. "How nice of you. Open red channel!"

The onboard CPU recognized her command, and the video link was opened, revealing a boy clad in a purple and black bodysuit, with a strange green orb embedded in the sternum and a pair of odd black ornaments in his silver hair…and he was looking at her with red eyes, lucid and calm. "Hello there, Gundam pilot."

Mana blinked.

Then she cackled. "Heh…okay then…sure, I was bummed out that we wouldn't be facing Unit-01. But to face a fellow nephilim? This just got interesting!"

Over in the Rising Gundam, Mayumi Yamagishi – her long blue hair held fast by the exo-frame to keep it from floating – was analyzing the ground. No visible crater. She took note of the gas-powered generator beside the white Evangelion, filled with enough fuel to provide the mecha twenty minutes of power. It was unharmed and without blemish. Then where did the Evangelion land…?

That's when she saw it. The ground around the generator now seemed like a plateau; everything beyond a certain radius was depressed. She turned her gaze further away. "Zoom, twenty-x."

Her view magnified by twenty times. There.

The depression was now apparent, a circular basin with a radius of at least seven hundred yards. Was the force of the landing distributed…? "We have to be cautious, sister."

"Oh come on, don't be such a downer."

The girl sighed at Mana's boisterous manner, right as a transmission came from Tokita. "Mana. Mayumi. We are now in the Control Room. You may start the demonstration at your leisure."

Mana's laugh echoed over the transmission. "Hah! Then let's get to it! Mayumi, go for long-range!"

"Understood!" All hesitation departed as the twin nephilim shifted into combat mode. The Rising Gundam's thrusters erupted as it maneuvered to the edge of the battlefield.

The Shining Gundam, meanwhile, flexed and contorted its right hand in a particular manner. The maneuver was recognized by the onboard computer, initiating one of the mecha's attacks. "All right…let's see how strong that AT-Field of yours is!"

The video of the Evangelion pilot revealed that he was smiling. "You have your own task, and I have mine. For the sake of courtesy, I give you my name: Kaworu Nagisa."

"Yeah? Well I'm Mana Kirishima, and I'm the one who's gonna hand your head to you!" The Shining Gundam's thrusters flared as Mana took to the sky. "SHINING…!" Then she descended, her right hand outstretched, the Gundam's own palm flashing a brilliant turquoise. "FINGEEER!"

The Mark 06 stood casually, arms crossed as the Shining Gundam descended.

Orange octagons flashed into existence as the Shining Gundam's attack collided with the Evangelion's AT-Field.

Moments passed, yet it seemed like an eternity. Mana Kirishima laughed with glee; the stress against her hand, the feeling of struggle…it was better than she had hoped for! "I could get used to this!"

Alarms suddenly pinged in her field of vision as alerts sounded regarding the structural integrity of the right hand. Although the Shining Gundam was capable of maintaining the Shining Finger for up to a minute before a cooldown period was needed, the stress occurring from both its usage and the force being projected back by the AT-Field was in danger of destroying her hand. Well damn.

"Sister, dodge left!"

Mana reacted instantaneously, ceasing her attack and moving to the side. A mere instant later, a glowing yellow arrow of plasma impacted against the AT-Field, right where Mana had attacked. The ionized matter splashed and erupted, the energy flaring in a fascinating light show.

When the light faded, the Mark 06 was still standing there, as undamaged as before.

From afar, Mayumi grimaced. "The Rising Arrow didn't work." The Rising Gundam lowered its left arm, the barrel within the blue vambrace dimming. "Change of tactics! Henshin: JET MODE!" She curled into a ball within the cockpit as the Rising Gundam reformed around her, transforming into the fighter jet it had originally arrived in. "Mana, Jet Bomb!"

"Oh, going for that one, huh? I'm game! HENSHIN: JET MODE!"

The Shining Gundam transformed into its jet form and burst off in the opposite direction from Mana, the two transforming mecha now miles apart.

In the midst of the arena, Kaworu Nagisa remained, unmoving as ever. "The Light of my Soul…the AT-Field, they call it," mused the boy to himself. "They try so hard to break through that barrier, yet cringe in fear if their own is threatened…such an interesting species." He turned his head, taking note of the fact that the two jets were now rocketing towards him from opposite sides. He certainly could have done more than just stand here, sure…but his instructions were quite specific.

With that said, the Fourth Child remained unmoving as the two jets converged towards his location. Suddenly, right as they neared him, they curved away in opposite directions as they each dropped a colored orb the size of a human fist: one blue, the other red.

The two orbs crashed together with great precision above the head of the Mark 06, and then Kaworu's vision gave way to fire and light.

xxxx

/Control Room, Demonstration Center, Outskirts of Tokyo-1/

"Ooooh!" exclaimed the crowd with great excitement as the Evangelion vanished beneath an explosive cloud of flame, the two Gundams easily outpacing the outburst in their jet forms.

"Structural integrity of both the Shining Gundam and Rising Gundam is optimal!"

"Thrusters are holding as expected!"

Shiro Tokita smiled as the NHIS technicians shouted out status updates and results in real time; the telemetry from both Gundams indicated that they were performing well within predicted operational parameters. Even better, both Mana and Mayumi were showcasing fantastic teamwork and coordination, which was to be expected; they had been training together long before the JSSDF had lent their services to the Jet Alone Project.

He had been…slightly worried when the Shining Finger and the Rising Arrow had failed to breach the Evangelion's AT-Field, but the Jet Bomb might have been able to accomplish something.

"An impressive explosion."

And there's the matter of the…interloper. Tokita would probably look back on this moment and seethe that NERV's Supreme Commander had not only had the audacity to crash the debut of the Jet Alone, but to stand beside him at the head of the Control Room!

For now, Tokita could only admire the man's nerve, no pun intended. "Yes. Each Gundam contains a limited supply of pellets, each one containing a chemical mixture of our own design. On their own, the mixture within each pellet is quite inert, and the shell holding the chemicals in is incredibly resilient. However…the mixture carried by the Rising Gundam differs from the one carried by the Shining Gundam. The shells of the pellets become quite pliable if they come into contact with each other…and when the chemicals from both Gundams mix together, they combust in the presence of open air."

"To say they 'combust' is an understatement," admitted the Professor. "A chemical explosion with that potency? I dare say that it was something of NHIS's own design."

"And you would be correct." Tokita mentally grinned. The Jet Alone Project itself was the NHIS's favored child, simply because of how many innovations had been made over the course of development. They had spared no expense in creating a weapon that would excel in a variety of combat scenarios.

It was at that moment that the Professor decided to ruin Tokita's fun. "Unfortunately, it wasn't enough."

Moments later, a technician shouted, "We have visibility on the Evangelion!"

Tokita immediately turned toward the multitude of monitors situated at the head of the Control Room, showcasing the battlefield from a variety of vantage points. Sure enough, the dust was clearing…and the white Evangelion was still standing, unharmed. "…this Evangelion…this Mark 06." The head of the Jet Alone Project tried to keep a handle on his emotions, even as he heard the murmurs occurring from the other observers. "Why it, and not Unit-01?"

"A multitude of reasons. For one, it would be the height of folly to remove from Tokyo-3 the only Evangelion with confirmed kills against the Angels. Secondly, the Mark 06 is utilizing…experimental technology, so this demonstration seemed a good opportunity to test them, in spite of the fact that the Pilot has no live combat experience in the Evangelion. However, there is one overarching reason."

Tokita arched an eyebrow. "Oh?"

Gendo answered without any passion or smugness, as though he were relating an indisputable fact. "In the end, it's simply because your Jet Alone Project wasn't worth our best."

A direct shot at the pride of NHIS. At the pride of the Jet Alone Project's team. At his pride as the head of the Jet Alone Project.

"It seems the explosion destroyed the generator," remarked the Supreme Commander of NERV. Indeed, the Jet Bomb had been unable to breach the AT-Field, but it had reduced the generator providing power to the Evangelion into naught but slag. "You've provided a good show, but your project's worth as an anti-Angel weapon will be less than nothing if you cannot pierce through the Mark 06's AT-Field before its power runs out."

I can tolerate a shot at my pride…but I won't tolerate you besmirching the result of so much time and effort! "How…true." Tokita chuckled, his grin widening as he leaned over a computer terminal, opening a communications link with both Gundams. "Maya. Mayumi. We're going to have to cut this demonstration short."

"WHAT? We've barely even started!"

"…understood, Tokita-san."

"But don't think that this means we've surrendered just yet!" Shiro Tokita turned his attention to the observers. "Ladies and gentlemen! What you're about to witness is another facet of the Jet Alone Project, one that unleashes the full potential of the Shining Gundam and the Rising Gundam!" With a wild smile, the man yelled, "Mana! Mayumi! GATTAI!"

"Oh, hell yes!"

"Understood, Tokita-san!"

The Rising Jet and the Shining Jet – both hovering side-by-side – quickly transformed back into their Gundam forms. Over the intercom that blared into the Control Room, everyone could hear the two nephilim speaking. "Ready sis?"

"On three! One! Two!"

Simultaneously, the both roared, "FUSION SEQUENCE, ENGAGE!"

The onboard computers recognized the synchronized command, and acknowledged that the two Gundams were in close enough proximity for the combination program to initiate. Both machines began to glow, with the Rising Gundam merging with the Shining Gundam from behind. Armor glowed and metal shifted as the two combined, transforming into something new.

Gendo Ikari made a thoughtful hum. "Truly…surprising."

"The Jet Alone is beyond compare," boasted Tokita, his eyes focusing on a monitor displaying the internal cockpits of both pilots. Mana and Mayumi had both curled into a ball to facilitate the change as their cockpits combined; now the internal cavity within the combined mecha was larger, enough to give both of them plenty of space for combat maneuvers. Mayumi took a position near the back, her hands taking position near a small number of waterproof computer terminals that controlled a number of the vehicle's features. Mana herself would be the main pilot, though the two could switch positions at a moment's notice.

When the glow faded, the two nine-meter Gundams had combined into one ten-meter Gundam, bearing features from both the Shining Gundam and the Rising Gundam. Some noticeable differences were the blue armor plates along the hips, the thick blue vambraces that now bore twin spikes of gold, and a golden band that ran across the blue breastplate. There were now two pairs of golden V-shaped prongs on the helmet, and a pair of white and red metallic 'wings' – if they could even be called that – streamed from the shoulders, easily five meters long.

"The combination of the Rising Gundam and the Shining Gundam! Behold, the BURNING GUNDAM!" roared Tokita. "Mana! Mayumi! GO FOR THE FINISHER!"

"Activating the wings!" At Mayumi's word, the wings on the Burning Gundam's back suddenly split apart, revealing that they were actually six metal flaps that spread out, their tips forming the vertices of a hexagon.

No one missed the red glow now emanating from these six 'wings'.

"Are you watching, Kaworu Nagisa?" yelled Mana as she flexed her right hand in a familiar manner. "Take a goo~ood look at this burning hand! The humiliation of your defeat will only be outmatched by the glory of our victory!"

Mayumi suddenly said, "Wings are fully charged!"

Mana let loose a savage roar as the Burning Gundam's thrusters flared a brilliant blue. "ERUPTING!" The Burning Gundam's right hand reared back, the palm now glowing red. "BURNING!" The right hand lanced towards the AT-Field, the vambrace's two golden claws shimmering. "FINGEEER!"

The two vibrating spikes contacted the AT-Field first...and they managed to crack the seemingly impenetrable barrier.

Following through was the hand of the Burning Gundam, unleashing a radiant stream of charged particles. This beam punched through the crack, blazing towards the face of the Mark 06.

KABOOM!

A faraway skyscraper in Tokyo-1 was obliterated by the beam.

The Mark 06 had leapt to the side, now hundreds of yards away after its sudden dodge of the Burning Gundam's attack.

However, it did not hide the reality; NHIS's Jet Alone Project had created a weapon capable of breaching an AT-Field.

Excited chatter erupted from the observers as Tokita felt his pride soar. We did it! We…we actually did it! "So! The AT-Field has fallen." It was so hard to keep his excitement down!

"Apparently," remarked the Supreme Commander of NERV, his voice surprisingly even-handed.

Tokita chalked it up it to the man trying desperately to save face. It doesn't matter what he thinks; we've breached the AT-Field. This will vault NHIS to the top; NERV will no longer be the only ones who can defeat the Angels!

Near the observation windows, Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi lowered her binoculars. Well. Damn. This had been unexpected! She was inwardly glad about a new anti-Angel weapon, but she also knew that this would upend the political situation involving NERV.

Her eyes flickered towards a brown-haired woman leaning against a nearby wall, her gaze affixed towards the head of the Control Room. The olive green uniform was a clear indication of the SGSDF. Let's see…a Sergeant First Class, judging by her military badge. However, the pair of blue wings against a black patch on her shoulder revealed her true purpose here. "Ah…you must be the pilots' overseer?"

The woman's icy gaze turned towards her. "Hmm?"

"That patch means you're in Nephilim Oversight."

"Yes. And?"

Mah, so stern! "Just thought it would be a good idea to see the one responsible for NERV's new competition. Pilot-wise, that is."

The woman narrowed her eyes at Misato's friendly demeanor. "Pardon me for being suspicious. The fact that your…superior is here has me ill-at-ease."

The Lieutenant Colonel shrugged. "Understandable." Most employees at NERV-1 had gotten used to Gendo Ikari by now, and could see past his eccentricities; for all his weirdness, the man was scarily competent. "I wonder what would happen if they faced Rei…"

Arching an eyebrow, the Oversight agent suddenly asked, "Who are you, exactly?"

Ah, breaking the ice! "Lieutenant Colonel Misato Katsuragi, Operations Director of NERV-1."

The name seemed to trigger recognition. "Ah…the Road Warrior."

"…so you know that nickname," muttered Misato, a sheepish smile on her face.

"I was reassigned to Nephilim Oversight before the Central American Wars, but whenever I talked with my old platoon, they would tell me stories about some 'purple-haired she-devil' tearing through enemy blockades in Brazil on a stolen motorcycle."

Misato giggled. "Got me there."

The woman finally smiled, offering a salute. "Hikari Kirishima, former Sergeant First Class of the Strategic Ground Self-Defense Force. Courtesy from one groundpounder to another."

Misato saluted back out of reflex; even though she was of a higher rank than Hikari, they weren't in the same command structure at present. "Well, technically, the reason I had stolen a bike was because my gunship got shot down behind enemy lines."

"…well, I suppose I'll overlook the fact that you're a flygirl."

"At least I'm not navy!"

The two chuckled, briefly reminiscing in old intra-rivalry jokes. It was at that point that the Lieutenant Colonel remarked, "So…'Kirishima'. Are you the mother of Mana-san?"

Hikari's smile faded, her attention returning to the battlefield. "For all intents and purposes, I'm the mother of both."

That facial expression was a subtle hint to drop the subject. "Ah…" She took a casual look around at the observers, cementing a suspicion that she had had since arriving. "If the JSSDF went through the trouble of loaning nephilim to the NHIS, they must be staking a lot in this project."

"It's foolish, if you ask me," grunted Hikari. "If they hadn't actually broken through the Evangelion's AT-Field, the JSSDF would've put the blame on them."

"Passing the buck is a favored tactic in any organization with a bureaucracy," quipped Misato.

Before the Oversight agent could reply, everyone's eyes widened as the Mark 06 suddenly moved.

One second, it had been standing still.

The next, its hands were wrapped around the Burning Gundam.

Hikari's nostrils flared as she made the immediate conclusion. The Jet Alone Project has proven itself to be a threat. Now they're going to destroy the prototype! Mayumi! Mana!

xxxx

Kaworu Nagisa looked quietly at the machine clutched in 'his' hands, a small smile on his face. "You are in quite the predicament now, aren't you?"

Two screens were 'floating' in his Entry Plug; one was showing Mana's face – which was currently letting loose an expletive-laced rant – while the other showed Mayumi's face, set to a stern and calculating expression. It was understandable; the Mark 06's hands were wrapped around the torso of the Burning Gundam, pinning its arms to its sides.

How hard they struggled. When cornered, the creature called 'human' seemed to resort to its base animal self, fighting wildly and beyond reason. Yet such resistance was clothed with pretty words: a second wind, fighting spirit, or the will to never surrender in the face of overwhelming odds.

It was quite intriguing. "Dim as the Light of my Soul was, you still managed to breach it with technology alone. Your machine is truly impressive."

"Let us go and we'll show you just how impressive it is, douchebag!"

That was another facet that Kaworu had noted in his personal observations; humanity prided itself as a graceful creature, rising above its base instincts. Yet with so many, it did not take much adversity for that eloquence to fade away, leaving only roaring, howling, and talk befitting a gutter. Yet this limit seemed to vary from person to person.

This individuality was fascinating. "As it stands, I have under two minutes of power left. Your machine has demonstrated its ability to breach the 'AT-Field', as the term goes. However, I don't think it will reflect well on you if the battle ends in such a manner."

"…no. It won't," said Mayumi, speaking for the first time since they had been captured. The look in her eyes, however, spoke of conviction; a
plan had been formed. "Sister, execute 'Burning Drop'!"

Mana blinked…before grinning. "Heh. That one, eh? Let's give it a shot!"

It was at that moment that Kaworu sensed a sudden shift in the nearby area. In his peripheral vision, he noticed that the dust clouds kicked up by their battle suddenly began to disperse in directions counter to the force of gravity. "Ah…you must have Kleinium cores inside your machine."

"One for each of us," replied Mayumi, a small smile on her face. "Negative charge of the Kleinium cores has reached Level Twelve! Onboard Freeman device has limited radius of effect to sixty yards!"

"All right!" Mana chuckled as she shifted her stance. "Hope you like flying!"

The Burning Gundam's thrusters ignited.

Without the force of gravity keeping the Evangelion affixed to the ground, it accompanied the Gundam into the sky. The abrupt acceleration caused Kaworu to jolt as he 'strained' to keep a grip on the flying mecha. "Without the hold of this planet to fight against, your acceleration is truly impressive." Indeed, the thrusters were on for only ten seconds before they stopped, letting momentum take care of the rest; withoutgravity, the only thing that would stop their ascent was friction due to the atmosphere.

Or if the two nephilim inside the Burning Gundam decided to take matters into their own hands.

"Current elevation, six thousand feet!"

Mana grinned. "That sounds about right. Activate Napalm Launcher!"

At her command, the pauldrons of the Burning Gundam opened up, revealing large black nozzles that extended forward. They aimed towards the Evangelion's hands, controlled by Mayumi herself. "Target locked!" exclaimed the blue-haired girl.

Her silver-haired sister bared her teeth and howled. "FIRE!"

Streams of fire burst from the nozzles, landed precisely on the hands of the Mark 06. The directed propulsion from the nozzles and their close range was the only reason they landed on target, given the current absence of gravity.

Given Kaworu's high sync ratio, it was only natural that he flinched, his hands flying away from the Burning Gundam.

"Reducing negative charge to Level Zero!"

At Mayumi's exclamation, their mecha's thrusters kicked in right as Earth's gravity took hold of them once more.

The Burning Gundam hovered in midair.

The Mark 06, on the other hand, plummeted.

xxxx

Shiro Tokita was almost oblivious to the shocked gasps of the observers.

No, his attention was on the monitor showcasing video footage from the camera inside the Burning Gundam's eyes.

The sight of the Evangelion falling helplessly to the Earth was…more satisfying than it should have been. So many doubted the Jet Alone…and yet look at we've done this day! "Well Ikari, it seems that your Pilot is in a bit of a dilemma."

"Not quite. The Fourth Child won't run out of power until after he lands."

"But a fall from that height would be catastrophic, would it not?" asked Tokita, inwardly shivering at how callous the man was being towards his own pilot.

The sudden smirk that came to the Supreme Commander's face dashed the assumption of heartlessness. "On the contrary; you are just one more person in a long line of fools that have doubted the power of Evangelion."

xxxx

Such an amazing creature that the Lilim have created, thought Kaworu as the Mark 06 dropped like a lead weight. For all intents and purpose, he himself was falling; the sensation of wind against his back, the weightlessness…

It paled in comparison to the richness that was present in his memories, but his human self found it quite invigorating nonetheless.

With a thought, the Evangelion flipped over, as though it were about to belly-flop into a pool. This would hurt far more, however.

It might even be fatal.

Well, I suppose my little excursion has come to a close, thought the silver-haired nephilim as he willed the Evangelion to an upright position, feet now aimed toward the ground.

At about four hundred feet above the battlefield, the Mark 06's fall began to slow.

Inexplicably, and without any visible means of propulsion.

The Evangelion's feet silently set down on the ground, a quiet end to what had seemed like a ferocious finisher.

Kaworu turned his gaze skyward; the girls' mecha had descended as well, now hovering two hundred feet above the Mark 06. "I commend your performance," remarked the Fourth Child, his voice transmitting to the two pilots of the Burning Gundam. "It makes me wonder how you will fare with what is to come."

At that moment, the Entry Plug went dark.

xxxx

The observers were silent at the sight.

First, because they had just seen something that defied explanation; how had the Evangelion slowed its fall? There was no engine, no thrusters, no parachute…nothing! It was a mystery, a conundrum!

Second, as the Mark 06 suddenly slumped on its feet, they realized that the Jet Alone Project – against all odds – had seemed to emerge triumphant against the Evangelion.

"An interesting maneuver by the Evangelion!" Everyone turned towards Tokita, who was now walking towards the massive observation window with a microphone in hand. "Regardless, I believe the conclusion is clear." He walked past the crowd, looking at their faces as he spoke. "The Jet Alone Project's debut resulted in a broken AT-Field; that is the sole reason why Angels can hold out against conventional weapons. But we have shown that the Evangelions are NOT the only ones who can pierce this barrier!" He turned towards the window, pointing at the Burning Gundam as it split apart into the Shining Gundam and Rising Gundam. "This is the dawn of a new era in mankind's war against the Angels!"

Applause broke out as the head of the Jet Alone Project whipped them into a raucous cheer. Most of those invited had come precisely because they had hoped to see a working alternative to NERV; now, they finally had one.

As the ovations began to dim, one slow clap remained.

Slowly, everyone turned towards Gendo Ikari, his opinion of Tokita's boasts made clear by how sarcastically he was clapping. "Bravo. It's been a long time since I've heard such blatant self-promotion. Your pride in the Jet Alone Project has no foundation."

"The words of a sore loser," cheekily remarked Shiro Tokita. "Are you telling everyone that their eyes have lied to them?"

"There was a singular purpose behind NERV's participation in this demonstration," remarked Gendo, eyes hidden by his orange shades. "Allow me to remove part of the veil; the AT-Field, despite whatever misconceptions you may have, is variable. Its nature reflects the will of the Evangelion and the Pilot that synchronizes with it. From the beginning, the Fourth Child was ordered to maintain a barrier approximately equivalent in strength and durability to that of the Third Angel's."

Tokita smirked. "You make my point for me! To hear that the AT-Field pierced by the Burning Gundam was of Angelic caliber only makes our case stronger!"

"And you are a fool if you think that the Third Angel represents the pinnacle of power for Angels," countered Gendo. It was an interesting contrast; the hot-blooded passion of Tokita and the calm, cool tone of Ikari. "Anyone with a working brain knows that in an actual battle, your 'Jet Alone' would have been crushed the instant it was grabbed by the Mark 06. Those who maintain otherwise are simply deluding themselves."

It was rather telling how quiet the observers were. Despite the personal disgust that the various JSSDF officers had for Gendo Ikari, they couldn't deny his point.

Hikari Kirishima, in particular, was feeling increasingly paranoid. For all the power that those Gundams possess, the Evangelion never even tried to fight back…it could've ended at the very beginning.

Tokita stated the question that was on everyone's mind; he was not one to back down so easily. "Then tell us why you came then! If you're so convinced about the superiority of Evangelion, then why bother with us?"

At that question, Gendo did something that sent chills down everyone's spine.

He smirked. "Because I was intrigued. I had to see for myself what all the commotion was about. Had the Jet Alone been…lacking, then it would now be lying in pieces all over the battlefield. As it stands, it can actually be useful." The Supreme Commander of NERV then spoke aloud, delivering a declaration to all present. "NERV will now be appropriating the Jet Alone and all assets from the NHIS that are necessary for operational and maintenance purposes."

A pin dropping would've sounded like a thunderclap. Even the sound from the computers seemed muted in the now all-too-quiet Control Room.

Finally, Mana's voice broke over the speakers. "Uh…what the hell did that guy just say?"

"Yes. I am curious as well," said Tokita, his throat finally working again. "I thought I was hearing the ramblings of a madman. Mind repeating
yourself, Mr. Ikari?"

Gendo reached into his cloak – causing everyone to tense – and pulled out a small sheaf of documents. "This here is a copy of NERV's charter with the United Nations. It possesses all of the official watermarks, along with the signatures of the UN Secretary-General, the UN Ambassadors of every member of the Security Council, the members of the Human Instrumentality Committee, and the head of government for every nation that possesses a NERV-operated facility." He flipped past the first few pages, eventually resting his finger on a particular section. "Read this paragraph, Mr.Tokita."

Hikari Kirishima's eyes narrowed as Shiro Tokita took the charter, a confident grin on his face. It felt like there was a lead weight in her stomach…and it only became heavier as Tokita's expression morphed into one of disbelief.

"You…you can't…this is a joke…it has to be!" Tokita's breath was short, his face pale. He quickly flipped to the signatures, noting that they were not just print-outs. This can't be right. He looked at the watermarks, the symbols; all of the telltale signs that this was a legitimate charter with the UN were present. Our lawyers went over every single word of the charter to make sure there weren't loopholes like this! How could they have missed this?

"To summarize, NERV may appropriate whatever resources it needs to successfully defend mankind from the Angels. There is then a two week window after the time of appropriation for the Security Council and the Instrumentality Committee to approve the appropriation. If either one votes to the contrary, then NERV will return all appropriated assets and pay a monetary penalty to the original owner of those assets." The Supreme Commander then swiped the copy of the charter, placing it back into his cloak. "However, I'm quite confident that, after such a successful demonstration, the Security Council and the Instrumentality Committee will approve the appropriation."

Tokita felt the world falling out from under his feet; he desperately tried to grab the proverbial lifeboat. "B-but…this is the only working prototype! You CAN'T take it away!"

"You know how to make it now. Make more," glibly replied Gendo.

Tokita knew better than to retort out loud as to why this wasn't possible for the near future. The synthesis of materials needed to create a new working model would take time and money; counting in the amount of time it would take to train a pair of pilots to utilize all of the features that made the Jet Alone so powerful, then it would be at least several months before another working model was ready. "But… but…!"

"So…you are our new employer?" remarked Mayumi over the intercom, a cautious tone in her voice.

"Essentially," replied Gendo, the casual way with which he was stealing NHIS's thunder infuriating most of the observers. "Of course, Mr. Tokita and all personnel involved in the Jet Alone Project will be working with NERV for an interim period while our technicians are trained in all aspects of maintaining and operating the Shining Gundam and the Rising Gundam. After all, a weapon is worthless if you can't use it properly."

He…he played us. The dawning realization rooted Tokita to the floor, his face beading with sweat. Anxiety gripped his heart as the reasons behind the man's actions became undeniably clear. He wants the Jet Alone for himself…he wants to use that technology to augment the Evangelions. He didn't even need to look at Agent Kirishima to know that she was glaring daggers at him; she had warned him regarding NERV's involvement in this demonstration.

He had acknowledged the warnings, but had felt the risk was worth it if it meant breaking NERV's stranglehold on anti-Angel combat.

Now, the very weapon meant to do that was in NERV's hands. He played us all for fools…no, it's a trick. It HAS to be! The Supreme Commander of NERV wouldn't risk the organization's reputation over a forged charter, so it had to be the real thing. I'll have to contact the Board, get in touch with our legal department…I can't let this…this, TRAVESTY stand!

Misato Katsuragi, on the other hand, was trying very hard not to giggle with glee at how completely Gendo Ikari had turned the situation on its head. Holy crap! Just…holy crap! Suddenly, she recalled why Gendo had declined to 'officially' represent NERV at the demonstration.

He had said that he would be busy overseeing the transfer of a new weapon to NERV-1.

Misato kept her hands over her face, masking a growing grin. Professor Ikari, you magnificent bastard!

xxxx

/Shores of Sagami Bay, Japan/

Alarms blared miles away as the Fifth Angel's presence tripped NERV-1's sensors.

Compared to the previous two, it was downright massive; the crystalline Angel was floating blue octahedron that leisurely advanced towards Tokyo-3, the sides of each triangular face each equaling four hundred feet in length. Thus, the height of each triangle measured precisely two hundred feet times the square root of three in length; therefore, the height of each four-sided pyramid was two hundred feet times the square root of two, meaning that each of the octahedron's diagonals was four hundred feet times the square root of two in length.

The precision of this length was perfect, which would undoubtedly have many engineers and geometers crying foul due to the impossibility of any constructed object having a finite length equaling an irrational number in magnitude.

Human limitations, however, did not apply to Angels.

The surface of the Angel reflected the surroundings, making it appear as a blue-tinted mirror of the world itself. The barrage of bullets and missiles that collided with its AT-Field resulted in a reflection that was awe-inspiringly beautiful in a strange way.

Those who could hear found themselves hearing a strange song; an enchanting humming that repeated every five seconds. Not quite human, not quite artificial…it transcended mere voices.

This Angel possessed a mathematical and aesthetic beauty that the others had not.

It was no less deadly.

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Sub-Director Kozou Fuyutsuki's eyes narrowed at the image of the massive Angel heading towards Tokyo-3; it looked like the world's largest gemstone. "Of all the times for the Professor and the Operations Director to be absent…"

"Don't worry sir, we'll handle the load until they get back!" reassured Makoto Hyuga. "Evangelion Unit-01 is now at the launch pad; Unit-00 is
still starting up!"

"Launch Unit-01 at Duct 9A," ordered Fuyutsuki, keeping an even tone as the technicians and officers went about their duties without complaint. It had been over two weeks since the last Angel attack, and the tension had been stifling to some of the rank-and-file; oddly enough, the actual presence of Angel calmed them down, because it meant that it was time to do their job. "How are you holding up, Shinji?"

"I'm doing fine, Fuyutsuki-san."

"Good. This time, you'll actually have backup from another Evangelion; we'll be deploying Unit-00 on the opposite side of the city so you can attack from both sides. But be careful; we don't know exactly what the Fifth Angel is capable of."

"Yes sir!"

"Did you hear that Sergeant Ayanami?"

The blue-haired nephilim's voice calmly came over the speakers. "Affirmative, Sub-Director Fuyutsuki!"

"The target is now slowing to over the downtown area! MAGI estimate it'll stop right above the Geofront's pole!" stated Shiori Aoba. "All defenses will now go silent until Unit-01 reaches the surface!"

Fuyutsuki nodded. Well, here goes nothing. "Launch Eva!"

Needless to say, Fuyutsuki didn't share Gendo's taste for drama, so no dramatic arm gestures from him.

Right as the Evangelion began its magnetically-propelled ascent to the surface, Miyata yelled, "We're detecting a high-energy reaction occurring inside the target!"

"What was that?" demanded the Sub-Director.

"Energy torus is accelerating and massing upon itself. The AT-Field is undergoing a tremendous phase shift!" screamed Maya. At the same time, everyone was treated to the sight of the Fifth Angel's body vertically and horizontally partitioning itself into a series of rotating diamonds, revealing the glowing red core at its center; the shape was almost like that of a Teutonic cross.

Dr. Akagi grimaced as she bit down on her cigarette. "These readings..." They were similar to certain patterns recorded during the Third Angel, except the frequency and magnitude was many orders greater. "Could it be…?" Nostrils flaring, Ritsuko suddenly roared, "Hyuga! Get the blast shield up in front of Duct 9A!"

"Huh-?"

"DO IT OR I'LL FEED YOU TO RANDALL!"

"Y-Yes ma'am, engaging blast shield!" rambled NERV-1's Logistics Officer as the readings from the Fifth Angel reached their peak.

xxxx

Right before Shinji hit the surface, he wondered how Misato and his father were doing in Tokyo-1. It feels weird…going into battle without hearing the voice of Misato or my father.

you'll be fine

That brief bit of reassurance consoled the Third Child as Unit-01 jolted to a halt at the surface. Right as he did so, his vision was blocked by a thick barrier popping up in front of him. "What the-?"

A high-pitched whine suddenly split the air as ambience of the sun dimmed, drowned out by the brilliant radiance emerging from the Angel. Shinji shivered at the sound; a thunderous howl, accompanied by the wail of its attack.

"SHINJI! GET AWAY FROM THE DUCT!"

Fuyutsuki's voice compelled Shinji to action as the magnetic locks on the elevator let go. The Evangelion barely dove down the nearest street before the blast shield – its thick tungsten surface glowing from the heat – melted away.

"Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, Fuyutsuki-san!" replied Shinji, his hands clutching the handlebars tightly. "What…what was that?"

"This Angel can apparently use its AT-Field to focus a directed energy weapon of great intensity. We'll keep you informed whenever it changes!"

"ANOTHER SHIFT! The orientation is changing!"

At Maya's exclamation, Shinji dared to poke his head above the nearest building.

The Fifth Angel was transforming again, expanding and folding in on itself in ways that were physically impossible. By the time it stopped changing, its appearance was akin to a tulip flower in full bloom…pointing downward?

Oh…

The high-pitched whine returned.

…no!

An instant later, the Fifth Angel fired a crimson beam directly at the ground, the thunderous sound of energy ripping through layer after layer of metal drowning out everything else.

xxxx

/Control Room, Demonstration Center, Outskirts of Tokyo-1/

The distinctive chime that sounded from Gendo's earpiece and Misato's cellphone induced them to take action.

As the Lieutenant Colonel bolted out of the room to prepare their VTOL for liftoff, the Supreme Commander immediately declared, "An Angel is now attacking Tokyo-3!" Amidst the sudden flurry of confused shouts and questions, Gendo made a sudden decision. "Pilot Kirishima! Pilot Yamagishi!"

"Whaddya want?"

"Ikari-san?"

"This is my first order for you; head for Tokyo-3 with all haste and assist NERV in defeating the Angel. The acting commander will be Sub- Director Kozou Fuyutsuki; you will follow his orders. Is that understood?"

"…you sending us to fight an Angel?"

"I did not stutter. Go!"

"W-Wait a minute!" exclaimed Tokita, trying to get a handle on the situation. "You can't just tell them to-GRMPH!" His words were cut off by Gendo, courtesy of a Tootsie Roll pop pulled from his cloak.

"Be a good boy and be quiet," admonished Gendo as he turned his attention back to the two nephilim. "I gave you an order! MOVE OUT!"

Unsurprisingly, Mana laughed at the Professor's assertiveness. "Whatever you say, 'boss'! HENSHIN: JET MODE!"

"Understood, Ikari-san! Henshin: Jet Mode!"

As the two Gundams transformed and shot off towards Hakone, Gendo took one last glance at the observers. "This concludes NHIS's demonstration. Good day to you all." With that said, he stalked off towards the exit, his cloak fluttering behind him.

As outraged shouts and confused grumbles emerged from the crowd, Shiro Tokita dejectedly removed the lollipop from his mouth. This day – which had begun so promisingly – had come crashing down.

NHIS's pride and glory was now in NERV's hands due to a legal loophole that had somehow escaped the notice of the company's legal department, which he felt was highly unlikely. I'll get to the bottom of this…I won't let it end this way!

His vision was suddenly taken up by Hikari Kirishima, her eyes sharp like frigid knives.

Tokita sighed; she didn't need to say anything. "I know. I'll try and make it right. Somehow."

The former Sergeant First Class slugged the head of the Jet Alone Project right in the gut. Tokita's eyes bugged out comically as he collapsed to the floor. Kicking him once in the ribs for good measure, Hikari snarled, "See to it that you do."

As the Oversight agent all-but-stomped off – fury present in every single footstep – Tokita wearily sat up from the ground. Can't say I didn't expect that. Wincing at the pain in his torso, the man wondered how in the world he was going to explain this to the Board.

xxxx

Out on the battlefield, Kaworu Nagisa – having manually exited the Entry Plug after his power supply expired – stood calmly on the shoulder of the Mark 06 as the two transformed fighter jets disappeared beyond the horizon, heading west-south-west towards Tokyo-3.

His mind expanded and felt great joy in the beautiful song of his [equal/kin/sibling]. I am so close to you, [INDECIPHERABLE]; your [voice/song/presence] fills me with...happiness, is the term.

I AM THE OPENER OF THE WAY. THAT WHICH REMAINS SEALED AWAY WILL BE [UNLOCKED/BROKEN/RELEASED] BY MY POWER.

Then I bid you good hunting, Ramiel.

I WILL NOT FAIL, TABRIS.

xxxx

To be continued…

Next time…

Episode 9: Thunder and Lightning (It says, "I AM. WHO ARE YOU?")


xxxx

(And so we get the new and improved Jet Alone. And Ramiel has elected to take a shortcut into the Geofront.)

 

[Ultra Sonic 007]

/Downtown Tokyo-3, Japan/

Gut reaction. Impulse. Instinct. A sudden urge.

Pick any word, pick any phrase, pick any of their synonyms.

They all perfectly described Shinji Ikari's actions once the Fifth Angel opened fire on the very foundation of Tokyo-3 itself.

Startled shouts erupted over the Entry Plug's speakers as the Evangelion's legs began pumping. Its hand was reaching for the progressive knife in the shoulder as he heard Maya's screams.

There was something about 'armor layers being breached'.

Yes, there were twenty-two of them, if he recalled correctly.

be careful

That too, was a distinctive warning from his mother. This action was probably reckless, but it was born of a justified desperation. The Angel seemed intent on utterly destroying the Geofront itself.

So many people would die.

I won't allow it.

The Angel would be free to do as it pleased with the devices within the Black Moon. What would it do? What would happen if it met LILITH? What about if it attained the Sword of Uriel itself?

Third Impact.

I won't allow it!

The Third Child howled as he leapt towards the Fifth Angel, prog-knife raised.

In a sudden transformation – with a swiftness belying its size – the Fifth Angel reformed into its original octahedron shape, ceasing its attack.

AT-Fields intertwined and cancelled each other out as Shinji landed on one of the upper pyramid's sides, the triangle large enough to completely hold Unit-01.

CRACK!

The progressive knife pierced the crystal, producing a small crevice for the Evangelion to grab onto. Shinji quickly grasped it with his free hand and prepared to stab again.

The Fifth Angel let loose a low wail, and another shift began, and why was…everything…falling…?

shinji!

The voice of Unit-01 fell on deaf ears as Shinji Ikari fell unconscious, now oblivious to the changing reality around him.

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

It was a sight that they had not expected.

Shinji's sudden assault had forced the Fifth Angel to halt its attack, which was a cause of relief for everyone.

However, their respite ended in mere seconds.

"What's…happening…?" muttered Sub-Director Fuyutsuki, his eyes wide at the image being transmitted onto the holographic screens.

The Angel seemed to be folding in on itself continuously, as if consuming Unit-01. Over and over, it folded and shifted inwardly, the image of Unit-01 reflecting onto the surface infinitely many times like a fractal, becoming smaller and smaller with each iteration.

Finally, the Angel reverted to its original form, a floating octahedron.

"No signal! We've lost contact with Unit-01!" yelled Miyata.

But the Evangelion was gone, seemingly devoured by the Fifth Angel.

xxxx

Episode 9: Thunder and Lightning (It says, "I AM. WHO ARE YOU?")

xxxx

It had been sixty seconds since Mana and Mayumi had shot off towards Tokyo-3 at the behest of NERV's Supreme Commander.

At Mach 2, and with over eighty-five kilometers separating Tokyo and the Hakone region, it would take them approximately one more minute to arrive at the fortress city.

Plenty of time for the pilot of the Rising Jet to voice her doubts. "Sister…should we really be going off like this?"

"Whaddya talkin' about? We got an Angel to fight!"

"I know, but…" The long-haired nephilim sighed; the way with which Gendo Ikari had completely stolen Tokita-san's thunder rubbed her the wrong way. "It just doesn't seem right, leaving Tokita-san and mother behind."

"They'll catch up eventually. Sides', I can't see him letting his 'baby' go without a fight."

"I'm sure," acknowledged Mayumi, the image coming through her helmet showcasing an awe-inspiring horizon; of particular interest was the odd energy signature that her vehicle's sensors detected over twenty kilometers to the west. "It just seems so…unfortunate. Despite his desire to unseat NERV as mankind's only protector against the Angels, he always seemed to view Supreme Commander Ikari in a positive light." Mostly because of how dogged the Supreme Commander was in ensuring that NERV's interests were the world's interests; despite grumbling on the part of various military figures worldwide, Gendo Ikari had never done anything (overtly, at least) to cast NERV as a self-serving organization.

It was one significant reason why his sudden appropriation of the Jet Alone seemed…beyond the norm.

"Eh, not the first time a human's betrayed someone's expectations. They tend to have a habit of doing that."

Mayumi sighed at her sister's comment.

"Well hello! Angel, twelve o'clock!"

The blue-haired girl's eyes immediately focused on the image she was receiving.

The octahedron – reflecting everything with a beautiful shade of blue – floating over Tokyo-3 was an oddly serene sight to behold. "It's…pretty."

"It's big too. I bet it'll blow up real well."

As the two jets slowed to a stop - now hovering in the sky above Tokyo-3 – foreign voice suddenly burst over their open channels. "This is a restricted airspace! identify yourselves and your aircraft immediately!" It was the voice of an elderly man, yet still vigorous in tone.

Mana was quick to the punch. "I am Mana Kirishima of the Shining Jet; my fellow comrade is Mayumi Yamagishi of the Rising Jet. We're here at the behest of your boss!"

"…ah. So you must be the Jet Alone pilots."

Mayumi blinked out of surprise. "You know about us?"

"Professor Ikari and I have been aware of the Jet Alone's existence for some time, as have a lot of other people. Is that relevant?"

"It's just…you don't seem shocked that we're here."

"In my many years, I've learned that it's just best to roll with the punches when it comes to Gendo Ikari."

Mana's chuckles rumbled over the speakers. "Sounds like he's always the life of the party!"

"I am Sub-Director Kozou Fuyutsuki, acting Commander. I need you two to stay outside of the city until-"

"Oh HELL no!" roared Mana, interrupting Fuyutsuki's order. "We're here to fight Angels, pal! That's what we were sent to do, so don't you dare think that you can just sideline us to hog all the glory for yourselves!"

Mayumi would've facepalmed if she could. "Sister, please show more tact."

"…allow me to enlighten you as to our current situation," replied Fuyutsuki, his tone suddenly frosty. "The Fifth Angel was boring its way through the armor layers with a powerful beam weapon when Unit-01 attacked. In response, the Angel seemingly…consumed the Eva."

Mayumi paled. "The Evangelion…was eaten?"

"The Fifth Angel has yet to resume its attack, so we can only assume that its impromptu absorption of Unit-01 has caused some problems. However, we're not doing anything until we have a better idea as to its capabilities."

Mana's snort was derisive, but begrudging. "Feh…fine."

"We should perform some reconnaissance anyway; as long as the enemy is idle, let's learn as much as possible," offered Mayumi, trying to mollify her sister's irritation. "Henshin: Gundam Mode!"

Mana grunted out of irritation. "Whatever. HENSHIN: GUNDAM MODE!"

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

As one of the many cameras within Tokyo-3 transmitted the image of the two jets transforming into Gundams, Kozou Fuyutsuki allowed himself to feel impressed. The report we had doesn't even come close to the reality.

"Wow…I've never seen a transformation like that before!" exclaimed Miyata, eyes wide with awe. "NHIS really outdid themselves!"

"No kidding…um…" Maya's words droned off as she turned towards Dr. Akagi. "Senpai, you're drooling."

Ritsuko blinked as her vision turned towards her cigarette, which was now smothered in saliva. "Ah. So I am." With a morose sigh, the head of Project E tossed the ruined stick of chemicals into the nearest trash can. "But it was so...BEAUTIFUL! Like a poem on epilepsy from a person
with narcolepsy!"

"We can admire the transforming machines later; right now, we need to focus on retrieving Unit-01 and destroying the Angel!" authoritatively said the Sub-Director. "Dr. Akagi, can we get any confirmation regarding Unit-01's status?" There was a particular reason for his worry on this matter; unlike the other Evangelions, which were derived from ADAM, Unit-01 was born of LILITH.

Given the current theories regarding the differences between ADAM and LILITH, the thought of the Fifth Angel consuming Unit-01 brought him no peace.

"Well, if you compare sensor readings on the graviton concentration, they're unchanged from when Unit-01 engaged the Angel to now; so Unit-01's mass is still physically present. However, take a gander at this;" Ritsuko leaned over towards Maya's terminal and typed several key shortcuts, pulling up a specific reading. "The nature of the Fifth's AT-Field is unlike what we've observed with the Third and the Fourth; specifically, it seems to be layered; the standard one outside the Angel, and another one within. But the reason…is still a mystery. LIKE WHY UNOBTANIUM IS OBTAINABLE!"

Fuyutsuki grimaced. "I want a definitive answer."

"Fine, ask the improbable of me! But soon, it will be improbably more probable! BOHOHOHOHO!"

Ignoring Ritsuko's sudden bout of rampancy, he turned towards the Tactical Officer's terminal. "Lieutenant Aoba, we need to test the Angel's offensive and defensive capabilities. Have Pen-Pen move into position around the Angel at your discretion."

"Roger!"

As Aoba set about telling Pen-Pen where to set up his Defender Gundams, Hyuga shouted, "Sir! Incoming communication from The Doctor!"

Sighing, Fuyutsuki tapped his earpiece. "Doctor, you are a go."

"Channels are confirmed secure, Fuyutsuki."

"Very well Professor. It hasn't been long since the Angel arrived, but a lot's happened."

"The Lieutenant Colonel and I will be landing within ten minutes. Summarize as best as possible."

"The Fifth Angel's beam tore through nineteen of the twenty-two armor layers. Unit-01 immediately attacked, and was promptly absorbed by the Angel. Since then, there has been no activity, although the Jet Alone has arrived to assist."

"I see." A mere instant of silence – lasting less than a blink of an eye – ensued before Gendo continued, "I assume that there's no visible signs that a Golgotha Event has been initiated?"

"No. By the love of all that's good," admitted Fuyutsuki. "So far, we've-"

"The MAGI are detecting another alteration in the phase space!"

At Maya's shout, everyone's gaze turned towards the screens; indeed, all eight sides of the Fifth Angel were…budding?

Suddenly, there were eight miniature octahedrons floating beside the original Angel, each one at a scale of thirty-to-one against the Fifth. Simultaneously, the bottom tip of the Angel seemed to glow and extend, morphing into a drill-shaped appendage that descended into the hole made by its beam weapon.

"Judging from initial observations, the MAGI predict that the Angel's going to try and drill the rest of the way into the Geofront! Estimated time until it breaks through is pending!"

Fuyutsuki grimaced at Miyata's report. "Damn it."

"Something else has gone wrong?"

"That goes without saying."

xxxx

Shinji Ikari blinked.

"…what?"

Where am I?

A blue field, perfectly uniform and without end. Towering pylons of crystal, bearing an inherent symmetry – on multiple levels – and patterns that spiraled off into infinity. Above, a blue sky without bound; on the horizon, clouds of black smoke, spewing lightning and roiling with thunder.

"What is this place…?"

His attention was suddenly captured by a digital timer, now only with two minutes left.

Shinji – lessons from the past week running through his mind – impulsively reached over the edge of his seat and yanked a large, yellow switch. At this, the timer for Unit-01's internal batteries – which now had fifty-five seconds left – suddenly jumped to over one hour. The
Evangelion's armor was capable of operating in three different modes; Standard, Diagnostic, and Life Support. 'Standard' was precisely what it seemed to be: the normal mode of operation for the Evangelion. Life Support was for use in emergencies, when the Pilot was not in a
position to get out of the Evangelion (for example, if they got stuck underwater after a battle), and had to stay alive long enough for rescue.

Diagnostic Mode – the one Shinji had just triggered – put all systems into a state of low energy consumption to enable a simple check of all systems while still maintaining enough energy for the sensors to work.

Thus, while Shinji couldn't physically move the Evangelion, he could still see, hear, touch, and…smell. Yes.

It smelled like cleanliness.

Not an industrial clean, where all odor and all stains were obliterated by an overpowering mixture of chemicals. Not a fresh-out-of-the-wash clean, where the scent of soap and warm water pervaded the senses.

It was…just clean. An absence of filth, an absence of impurities. It was hard to describe; nonetheless, it was very invigorating.

I still have no idea where I am, though. The Third Child wracked his brain, trying to ascertain what had been going on. The Angel…it was trying to destroy the Geofront…wasn't it? Yes…I attacked, and then…nothing. The boy looked around with a strange sense of unease. "Is this…inside the Angel?"

A song caressed the air, catching Shinji's attention. It was serene, yet alien, expressed in a tongue that he could not even begin to identify. Before long, he noticed a shimmering pool – seemingly derived and made of the same crystal in the field – floating into the air, coalescing
into a perfect sphere.

It was the source of the voice. "Who…who are you?"

The song – more like a hymn, really – continued, shifting and changing, its melody and rhythm beyond anything Shinji's mind could perceive. It was actually painful, trying to decipher what it meant…or was the song itself so far above his comprehension that the mere act of understanding it was harmful?

All of sudden, the cry stopped…and then repeated, this time taking on a different tone.

An apparition appeared in the air, as if in response to the sphere's song. Two red eyes flashed in the sky above, blanketing everything with a searing white light.

"GAH!" screamed Shinji, the radiance burning into his eyes, boring and clawing into his brain -

Two girls; one with white hair and one with red hair.

Twelve monoliths.

A titanic colossus; shackled, yet glowing white.

His father.

The light vanished, leaving Unit-01 and the sphere alone in the expanse. Wha…what the…what was that?

The song began again…but this time, there were words to the tune. "STATEMENT: I AM. QUERY: WHO ARE YOU."

Despite the cold, almost clinical phrase, the delivery was melodious, even soulful.

Shinji was still confused nonetheless. "Huh?"

"STATEMENT: I AM I." The sphere rippled, and the song continued. "QUERY: WHO ARE YOU."

xxxx

/Tokyo-3, Japan/

Sergeant Ayanami contemplated.

"Wark."

From upon Mt. Hakone, she watched as a Defender Gundam zoomed towards the Fifth Angel.

Suddenly, the three nearest sentinels shifted, transforming into dishes rimmed with pylons, concentrating their firepower at the Gundam's location.

It dodged before they fired, promptly retreating: saved by the seemingly all-seeing eyes of Pen-Pen.

"I still find it friggin' hilarious that you have multiple squadrons of customized Gundams piloted by a single penguin."

"I find Pen-Pen-san's abilities nothing to laugh at, sister."

"Still funny!"

There was…the matter of the newcomers to consider. The Jet Alone and its pilots.

She was still compiling an opinion. So far, it was somewhat negative: although Pilot Yamagishi seemed respectable enough, Pilot Kirishima's brash and boisterous demeanor did not speak well for her chances to mesh with NERV's command structure. Then again, Misato had a number of subordinates with similar traits – such as Mr. Kasparov, Mr. Doe, and Mr. DeGroot – who had acclimated well to the command hierarchy. Perhaps she wasn't a lost cause.

"Geez, how long is this gonna take? That Angel's gonna break through in forty-five minutes!"

Still, it wouldn't hurt to remind her.

The Sergeant opened up a video channel. "Respond, Pilot Kirishima."

A screen popped up in front of Rei's vision, showcasing the face of Mana Kirishima. "The Pilot of Unit-00?" There was an arching of the eyebrows. "Another nephilim…" A curling of the lips. "Well well, isn't this a treat?"

"I understand your frustration, but a plan of action has not yet been decided on." The Supreme Commander and the Operations Director had since returned, and the Lieutenant Colonel had immediately taken command of the situation from the Sub-Director. "As is, the Fifth Angel has
been entirely reactionary since its transformation into this new form. We will not attack until everything is prepared."

Kirishima was quiet, staring intently at her through the video screen. Finally, she asked, "Quick question: what's your name?"

Not an unreasonable question. "I am Sergeant Rei Ayanami, the First Child."

Kirishima stared; Rei's perceptive abilities, fine-tuned as they were, didn't miss the subtle contraction of the Gundam pilot's pupils. After several seconds of silence, the girl chuckled. "Heh heh…I see…" Her ensuing grin was wide and manic. "As you command, Ayanami." The
video screen promptly winked out.

Rei Ayanami's eyes narrowed. She would need to keep an eye out for Kirishima.

Her attention turned towards the Fifth Angel, its eight miniature clones keeping a steadfast guard over the main body as its drill continued to bore through the Geofront's many armor layers. Forty-five minutes to come up with a solution to their dilemma.

It was time that had been given to them by Unit-01 and the Third Child.

It was…odd. Dr. Akagi seemed convinced that the Evangelion still existed somewhere within the Angel's internal AT-Field, and even the Supreme Commander acted as if it were possible to retrieve both Unit-01 and its pilot of them once the Angel had been defeated. She, however, had resigned herself to the possibility that the Third was incapacitated, or possibly dead.

No expense would be spared in retrieving Unit-01, however. It was vital to the Professor's Plan.

Pilot Ikari would certainly be remembered for his sacrifice.

not dead

So why was there this odd twinge in her chest when she thought of him as dead?

NOT dead

Why did she feel this strange flutter at the thought that he would survive?

NOT DEAD

Rei Ayanami sighed. These thoughts seemed to agitate the soul of Unit-00. Wait for the plan of action. Concentrate on defeating the Angel. Right now, everything else is secondary.

She still felt an occasional pang, regardless.

It was…vexing.

"Okay ladies, the plan is set!"

Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi's voice provided a welcome distraction. "Awaiting orders, ma'am!"

"We've cooked up a little something called Operation Yashima."

"Ah! The legendary naval battle where Nasu no Yoichi, while on horseback in the sea, shot the fan atop the mast of a Taira clan ship with a single arrow!" exclaimed Mayumi.

"…yes! Exactly!" Misato chuckled. "Seems we've got a brainiac over here, Ritsky!"

"Good! My supply of brains…was running low! WOHOHOHOHOHO!"

Mayumi was noticeably quieted by Dr. Akagi's outburst.

"Don't mind senpai," reassured Maya. "So Lieutenant Colonel, the plan?"

"Ah, yes!" Clearing her throat, Misato explained, "Well, there's a reason it's called Operation Yashima…so listen up!"

xxxx

/Arena, Outside Demonstration Center, Outskirts of Tokyo-1/

Kaworu Nagisa remained quiet as thick, metallic tethers – currently strapped around the shoulders and torso of the Mark 06 – were fastened to the VTOLs hovering overhead. The Evangelion would be airlifted to the nearest JSDF airbase, where a transport would be waiting to ferry both him and the Evangelion back to NERV-2. Though, if the fight against Ramiel went poorly...well, it's not like he would be able to get there in time. Such a shame.

Now, standing upon the giant's shoulder – stalwart and unmoving against the wind – he communed with his…siblings. His kin.

How funny; it was becoming easier to think of them in separate contexts, from different perspectives, instead of describing them with one, all-encompassing [title/identity/characteristic]. To conceive of a singular entity from multiple, disjoint viewpoints…a capacity inherent to the Lilim.

It had once been utterly alien to him. It still was, in a way.

THE LILIM ARE [CONFOUNDING/STRANGE/ENIGMATIC].

The voice of Ramiel echoed through his head. Oh? Enlighten me as to how you came to this conclusion.

I HAVE TAKEN WITHIN MYSELF THE [WEAPON/CREATURE/ENTITY] THAT FELLED [INDECIPHERABLE] AND [INDECIPHERABLE].

The nephilim's eyes widened in surprise.

Zeruel was far more vocal. FOOL! YOU DARE TO TAKE THE FRUIT OF KNOWLEDGE FOR YOURSELF?

I HAVE DONE NO SUCH THING, replied the Fifth Angel, its melodious song somehow sounding indignant. TO TAKE THE FRUIT OF KNOWLEDGE...THE VERY IDEA AROUSES AN [INSTINCTIVE/IMPULSIVE/ENDLESS] DREAD.

So you have [invited/taken/bound] the Evangelion into your very soul? The silver-haired boy suddenly chuckled. So that is why you wanted access to my memories. It also explained why he hadn't [seen/perceived/understood] the presence of Evangelion Unit-01, like he had with
Sachiel or Shamshel.

I DESIRED [UNDERSTANDING/COMPREHENSION/KNOWLEDGE]. YOUR [EXPERIENCES/KNOWLEDGE/PERCEPTIONS] HAVE MADE THE TASK EASIER…AND YET THE TASK IS [ARDUOUS/CONFUSING/FRIGHTENING].

WHAT USE HAVE YOU FOR FEAR?

WE ARE. YOU ARE [INDECIPHERABLE], AND YOU ARE [INDECIPHERABLE]. I AM [INDECIPHERABLE]. I AM I. THERE IS NOTHING LEFT TO SAY; THIS [WEAPON/CREATURE/ENTITY] AND THE LILIM WITHIN, HOWEVER…LACK [DEFINITION/IDENTITY/LIFE]. WERE IT NOT FOR YOUR [EXPERIENCES/KNOWLEDGE/PERCEPTIONS], TABRIS, THEN MY ATTEMPTS AT COMMUNICATION WOULD BE FRUITLESS.

Kaworu smiled as the squadron of VTOLs suddenly lifted the Evangelion into the air, his feet remaining steadfast upon the Mark 06's armored shoulder. I see. It is a feeling that Zeruel and I have become…accustomed to.

HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO LILITH?

THE BLACK MOON IS ALMOST OPEN. SOON, I WILL HAVE THE ANSWER TO THE QUESTION WE ALL HAVE.

Be swift, Ramiel. The Lilim tend to…surprise, if you give them the slightest chance. He had discovered that earlier in the demonstration; the Burning Gundam had been in his hands, and it wasn't but mere moments later that he was falling from the sky.

Yes; the Lilim were so quick to adapt.

I WILL SUCCEED.

xxxx

Shinji Ikari hadn't known where to begin.

After all, it wasn't everyday when an Angel just up and asked who you were.

For one thing, classified information was off the table. Information about NERV, Tokyo-3, Evangelion, his father's work…off the table. That much was clear.

So what had been left?

Tales about growing up in Okayama-2. It provided an insight into who he was without giving away any information that could be considered 'top secret'. His uncle's lessons, his aunt's cooking, his cousin's boisterous ways, his old school's relatively wacky student body…all of those things had been fair game.

"…and that's how I ended up killing a landshark."

It was a win-win!

"So, I've talked about how Uncle Tomoe showed me and Annette how to properly use a Swiss army knife when we got attacked by a giant green pheasant, how Aunt Alicia inadvertently improved my school cafeteria, how Haruko from the Music Club accidentally smacked me in
the face with her guitar and everything that resulted from that, how Kamina, Simon, and I once got stuck inside the basement of a submerged skyscraper before we managed to drill our way out…and with the landshark, that makes five." Shinji leaned back in his seat, staring intently at the reflective sphere in front of him. "I can keep going if you want me to."

The song returned. "YOU HAVE SAID MUCH."

The Third Child blinked; the Angel's words were now much more fluent than before. Was it learning how to communicate as I talked?

"SO MANY EVENTS YOU SPEAK OF. SO MANY OTHER...'HUMANS', THAT YOU SPEAK OF."

This is actually kind of neat, thought Shinji; he was actually communicating with an alien life form! Kensuke would be freaking out if he were in my shoes. A brief hope arose in him that maybe – just maybe – he could get the Angel to call off its attack. After all, there was an entire line of thought behind using negotiation and diplomacy in getting what you wanted! Maybe it would work here-

"INSIGNIFICANT. EVERY SINGLE WORD."

…well, there goes that hope. Shinji grimaced at the Angel's judgment. "Look, I know I'm just one kid, and you're this…unbelievably powerful creature from beyond, but I told you a lot about myself! Just like you asked!"

"YOU DID NOT."

"Huh?"

"YOURS IS A PUZZLING EXISTENCE." The sphere rippled with each note, the waves colliding in a spontaneous eruption of music. Even as the song continued, the skies around them trembled with thunder and lightning. "YOU CLAIM THAT YOU HAVE TOLD ME ABOUT YOURSELF. YOU
CLAIM THAT YOU ARE 'SHINJI IKARI'. I DO NOT FIND CREDENCE IN YOUR CLAIMS."

Shinji scowled, indignant at the Angel's statement. "Oh yeah? What makes you so sure?"

"WHEN I SAY THAT I AM I, IT IS WITH FINALITY. THERE IS NO DOUBT. THERE IS NO CONFUSION. THERE IS NO AMBIGUITY. I AM: THE LIGHT OF MY SOUL BEARS NO IMPURITIES." The song shifted in tone; sad, and yet pitying. "YET YOUR SOUL IS…WITHOUT CLARITY. WITHOUT DEFINITION. WITHOUT SUBSTANCE. AND YOUR LIGHT IS SMALL AND WEAK, VISIBLE ONLY DUE TO THE WEAPON YOU NOW CONTROL…AND EVEN ITS SOUL, FRACTURED AND WEAKENED AS IT IS, OVERWHELMS YOURS." A lightning bolt crackled in the distance. "YOU SPEAK AS IF YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE. YOU SAY WORD AFTER WORD OF YOUR KIND'S LIMITED VOCABULARY, HOPING TO FILL IN THE VOID OF YOUR OWN SELF WITH SHEER QUANTITY. YOUR SOUL DICTATES OTHERWISE."

The son of Gendo Ikari frowned at how casually the Fifth Angel was stating its conclusions. "Am I supposed to worry about what you think? You want to know how I know who I am?" Shinji inhaled, steeling himself before letting loose. "It's because of everyone else! I have people
that I care about, and I have people who care about me!" Family. Friends. Through his interactions with them, he had defined himself. Through his experiences, he had come to know who and what he was. Even so, it wasn't set in stone: life would continue to redefine and
change him, pushing him to new horizons. "Everything changes eventually…I know that the Shinji Ikari of today might be different from the Shinji Ikari of tomorrow. But that's a part of life!" He glared at the unmoving sphere. "You claim to know so much…but no one knows what
tomorrow will bring. That's why I keep on living! To see what tomorrow will bring, to me and to everyone I know and care for!" He gripped the handlebars, wondering how much time he would have left in the Standard configuration. "And to hear you say that everything I've
experienced with them is insignificant…it makes me a little upset."

"IRRELEVANT. YOUR KIN NUMBER IN THE BILLIONS, YET THEIR SOULS ARE SO MUDDLED AND UNCLEAR THAT NOT EVEN THEIR SUM TOTAL COULD EQUAL THE BRILLIANCE OF MINE OR ANY OF MY KIN, INCOMPLETE AS WE ARE."

The sky suddenly seemed to darken, and the sphere's song took on a foreboding nature. "IN THE END, THIS CONVERSATION HAS PROVIDED A GLIMPSE INTO THE MIND OF THOSE WHO WOULD STAND AGAINST US. TABRIS SEEMS INTRIGUED BY YOUR KIND, BUT I DO NOT UNDERSTAND THE FASCINATION. REGARDLESS, I WILL ATTAIN WHAT WE ALL SEEK. ANYONE WHO STANDS IN OUR WAY WILL BE ANNIHILATED."

"I don't think so." On the outside – if that term even fit – of the Angel, it was probably still attacking Tokyo-3. I have to get out…I have to get back and help them! "You won't hurt anyone else."

"AN UNSUBSTANTIATED CLAIM."

A flick of the switch sent Unit-01 into its Standard mode of operation, now with less than thirty seconds of power left.

It would have to do.

"Substantiate THIS!"

Unit-01 slammed its fist into the sphere, the impact shattering the Fifth Angel's avatar and revealing a spiraling tear in the fabric of the air, one that led towards a red orb in the far distance, surrounded by a massive helix of crystal.

The Angel's core.

"YOUR ACTIONS WILL AVAIL YOU NOTHING."

The storms roared and the crystalline realm turned against the Evangelion.

Uncaring, the purple titan leapt into the tear and burst off running towards the core, AT-Field flaring as soul warred against soul.

xxxx

At the precise moment – relatively speaking, since the time flow inside the Fifth Angel was slightly perturbed from that of real world – that Shinji returned Unit-01 to the Standard configuration, Operation Yashima began.

From all over the Hakone region and within Tokyo-3, artillery thundered, rockets fired, missiles launched, and guns of varied caliber roared. A storm of ordnance was unleashed upon the Fifth Angel, hovering serenely above the city as its drill continued tearing through the final armor
layer.

The eight miniature octahedrons surrounding the Angel's main body opened fire, shifting and transforming in an instant into forms more suitable for their task. The upper four clones fired upon the sources of the weaponry, destroying vast swathes of Tokyo-3's defenses. The lower four clones concentrated on firing upon the incoming armaments, prioritizing missiles and rockets over artillery shells and bullets.

The sky came alight with smoke and fire, a furious storm of red and gunmetal mixed with the Fifth Angel's crimson beams.

Precisely two seconds after the Angel first responded, Unit-00 was charging. Held in front of it was an improvised shield of sorts, namely one of the tungsten barriers that had tried (and failed) to hold off the Angel's beam weapon from striking Unit-01.

It did not matter to the Sergeant; there was a plan. It was her duty to follow it.

Soon, the two octahedrons closest to her acknowledged her presence, simultaneously attacking her with precision beams. However, with the Angel's power divided like this, the blast shield was holding.

At least, it would hold for about ten more seconds before the beams punctured through, according to Dr. Akagi's prediction.

But, as Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi had said, it would be enough.

The Evangelion retracted the progressive knife from a slot in its shoulder, activating it with a simple press. With a practiced, efficient movement, Rei thrust the vibrating blade into the AT-Field, making sure that the AT-Field of Unit-00 was countering the Angel's.

Thankfully, Unit-00's AT-Field was just enough to alter the phase space, allowing the prog-knife to slide through.

The Angel's protective field was now down; Rei – throwing her glowing tungsten shield at one of the octahedrons – focused now on dodging the Angel's defensive attacks, while maintaining her AT-Field at a high enough level to prevent the Fifth from reforming its barrier. Multiple squads of Defender Gundams suddenly appeared from their positions, flying around and about the Angel, firing their rifles and rocket launchers at the miniature octahedrons and the Angel's main body.

Unfortunately, Rei's sync ratio wasn't high enough to sustain it for long; Dr. Akagi had predicted that it would take about thirty seconds – once the Fifth Angel had inevitably thinned out NERV's defensive platforms – before its AT-Field overwhelmed hers. Even with Pen-Pen running
interference, the weapons carried by the Defender Gundams weren't powerful enough to distract the Angel from the heavier ordnance coming its way, so it wouldn't be long before its attention would turn to her.

But, as Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi had said again, it would be enough.

"Pilot Yamagishi!"

At Rei's shout, the Rising Gundam – its gauntlet glowing brightly – took aim from its position near the shore of Lake Ashi. "Here I go! RISING ARROW!"

A modern-day Nasu no Yoichi, with the Angel being the proverbial battleship of Taira.

Though, in all fairness, the drill was a much larger target than a flag atop a ship's mast.

The bolt of charged plasma shot forth, splashing against the Angel's drill near its base. Right as the Rising Arrow hit, Mayumi yelled, "Pen-Pen-san!"

Across the lake, near the base of the mountain range, a long, Evangelion-scale rifle sat, aimed towards the city; streaming from its stock was a large power cable, providing the power needed to actually fire. It was a positron rifle – Prototype 20 with a toroidal accelerator – that was normally meant to be used as a shoulder-mounted weapon due to the sheer recoil.

It was surrounded and braced by multiple blocks of dense metals and improvised braces – vehicles, wreckage, and so on – that had been placed by Rei, Mana, Mayumi, and the P2 System over the course of twenty minutes, the task made possible for the Gundams only by the Kleinium cores possessed by the Jet Alone.

As far as positron rifles went, it was good, but not the best; the JSSDF itself was working on a prototype that was capable of unbelievable power. Had there been more time, the Operations Director would have preferred trying to 'appropriate' the JSDF's Automated Positron Rifle,
scrounging up the energy needed for it to pierce the Angel – AT-Field and all – in one stroke.

Alas, time was not a luxury they possessed. As is, it was good for one use: the recoil from the first shot would knock the improvised supports aside, preventing any hope of accuracy for the second shot, especially with Unit-00 preoccupied.

But, as Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi had said yet again, it would be enough.

CHYOOM!

A stream of positrons erupted from the barrel of the white rifle, shimmering blue in the air. The Prototype 20 had been positioned such that its line of sight with the drill was uninterrupted.

Charged positrons crashed against the target zone hit by the Rising Arrow.

A thunderous crack sounded as it punched through the weakened drill, the positron stream continuing on past several skyscrapers before impacting the hills beyond the city, resulting in a spontaneous explosion.

That could be dealt with later. Rei immediately yelled, "Pilot Kirishima!"

"Yeah yeah, I'm on it!" groused the disgruntled nephilim. The Shining Gundam was positioned at a spot only one block away from the Angel's position, flanked by two Defender Gundams whose sole task was to forcibly evict the Shining Gundam from the area should the Angel open
fire on them.

As for the Shining Gundam itself, its onboard Freeman device projected an anti-gravity field around the Fifth Angel. However, not every graviton was repulsed; the Shining Gundam's single Kleinium core was incapable of repelling all gravitons over such a large volume. It
would've been possible with the Burning Gundam; alas, Mana was only capable of reducing the force due to gravity within the area of effect to about a fifteenth of Earth's normal gravitational force.

But, as Lieutenant Colonel Katsuragi had said one last time, it would be enough.

"If you're gonna do something, do it!" snapped Mana, irritated by her seemingly minor role in Operation Yashima.

Appearances aside, her role was vital; it made the next part possible. "Thank you, Pilot Kirishima." At Rei's behest, the orange Cyclops shifted its legs and twisted its shoulders, getting into position. The Defender Gundams were already evacuating the area, allowing for the Fifth Angel to turn its full attention on the Evangelion…for all the good it would do.

With deadly grace, Evangelion Unit-00's right leg lashed up in a high roundhouse kick, smashing into the reflective surface of the main body.

POW!

Sound and force rippled through the air as the Fifth Angel was sent flying, one of its sides cracked by Unit-00's foot. True, the Earth's normal gravity took effect immediately once it left the anti-gravity field produced by the Shining Gundam, but the kick had been powerful enough to render that fact irrelevant.

Two seconds later, the massive Angel crashed into one of the mountains surrounding the city, kicking up a cloud of dirt and uprooted flora. The miniature octahedrons trailed after the main body, inexorably drawn toward it. The broken drill, however, remained rooted in the metal
foundations of Tokyo-3, seemingly no longer connected with the Angel itself.

"Operation Yashima was successful," said Sergeant Ayanami. The drill had been stopped with less than twenty seconds to spare before it would have broken through into the Geofront.

The Lieutenant Colonel chuckled, a boastful tone in her voice. "And THAT is why I'm the Operations Director!"

Rei Ayanami quickly began pulling the drill out of the hole made by the Angel; broken though it was, there was still the possibility that it could be controlled remotely-

"New reading from the MAGI!" Maya's voice burst across everyone's speakers. "The AT-Field…the inner layer's no longer present! The phase space is regenerating rapidly!"

A small twinge struck Rei's chest. If the Angel was no longer splitting its AT-Field into layers…what did that entail for the one it had consumed? Pilot Ikari?

Had he indeed perished after all?

not dead

Focus. The Angel must be destroyed.

The eight miniature copies of the Angel rejoined the main body as it began levitating; moments passed as it unfolded like a kaleidoscope, changing at a rate that should have been impossible for such a large figure. Eventually, it settled on some bizarre cross of a perfectly symmetrical snowflake and a pyramid, its tip aimed straight at Tokyo-3.

A tip that was now shining, accompanied by a growing cry.

xxxx

At the precise moment – more or less – that the MAGI had sounded their alert, Shinji Ikari was bathed in the red light of the Entry Plug, his vision of the red orb disappearing. "No…"

So close. So close!

The crystalline walls that had been erected by the Angel? Torn through like paper.

The lightning that had flashed from nowhere, streaming into the Evangelion's body? Endured with great duress, yet unable to halt his charge.

The core had been right there. Right there! I was just about to hit it!

Indeed, in the strange, bizarre environment that constituted the Angel's interior – its self-reflection? Its soul? Its own sense of identity? – Unit-01 was standing atop the strand of a blue helix, fist reared for a fearsome punch.

A fist that was now no danger, for the Evangelion's limbs had gone slack.

"Not now…not now…!"

The Fifth Angel's voice suddenly flooded the Entry Plug, the power behind it causing Shinji to flinch. "THE ENERGY RESERVES OF YOUR WEAPON'S…ARMOR…ARE NOW DEPLETED." There was no smugness, no boasting. It was a simple statement of fact. "ONLY THE LEAST AMOUNT OF NECESSARY RESISTANCE WAS OFFERED, ENOUGH TO PREVENT YOU FROM REACHING MY-" The next word was garbled, a bizarre fusion of so many other words and alien sounds, carrying an inherent meaning beyond Shinji's understanding."-BEFORE YOUR WEAPON'S SHACKLES RAN OUT OF POWER."

Shinji scowled.

"WHEN I TOLD YOU THAT YOUR ACTIONS WOULD AVAIL YOU NOTHING, IT WAS THE TRUTH; I WAS NEVER IN ANY DANGER FROM YOU."

No…it can't end like this!

"THE OTHER DEFENDERS ARE…RESOURCEFUL, I WILL ADMIT. BUT NOW, YOU ARE A NONFACTOR; ALL ATTENTION CAN NOW BE FOCUSED ON THE REST OF YOUR KIN." The song of the Angel roared with a thunderous finality. "I WILL OPEN THE WAY. I WILL NOT BE DENIED."

Shinji growled with frustration. I was so close! The Angel was now free to turn all of its power against his friends and allies…and here he was, with an empty battery.

Useless.

No.

Was there nothing that he could do?

No. I don't believe that!

Shinji Ikari gripped the controls tightly. "I won't stop…I can't stop…" Clenching his jaw, the young boy howled with fury, his mind focusing intently upon the soul within Unit-01. I have to do something! I can't let it end here! I WON'T!

Ba-bump.

The Angel will kill everyone!

Ba-bump.

I WON'T LET IT!

Ba-bump.

So help me…

A stirring of something dark and foreboding, separate from the maternal warmth that still lingered in the Entry Plug.

HELP ME MOTHER!

The Entry Plug went dark.

And then Unit-01's eyes glowed.

xxxx

The pitch of the charging beam reached its peak.

And then there was light.

A furious roar erupted as the tip of the Angel exploded outward in a cloud of pink and crimson, the energy flaring into the open. Crystal fragments and red ash fell through the air above Tokyo-3, the display shocking all observers.

"What the hell?" exclaimed Mana. "It just exploded!"

"We've got a lock on Unit-01's transponder! Verifying…" Miyata then exclaimed, "Confirmed! We've got life signs in the Entry Plug!"

He is alive. Rei Ayanami was grateful that the worried twinge had disappeared; it allowed her to maintain focus on the Fifth Angel, even as Unit-01 hurtled out of the broken tip at high speed, landing in an undignified heap atop one of the defensive platforms.

Naturally, it broke under the force, but it could be replaced.

"What's the status of the Angel?" asked the Operations Director.

"The AT-Field is still present; it's not dead yet!" replied Dr. Akagi.

As if to answer their question, the Angel's form shifted yet again, now resembling a sea urchin made of blue glass.

The most significant thing, however, was the wail that pierced the air, roiling with pain and wrath.

In the MAGI's internal report – constantly amended and edited live during the course of an operation – HEROD added a footnote stating that it was at this point where the Angel became, quote-unquote, 'pissed off'.

"Well, I hate to do this after the kid got eaten," murmured the Lieutenant Colonel. "Pen-Pen! We're unlatching the umbilical cord from Duct 7E; get it connected to Unit-01!"

"Wark."

"Yamagishi, Kirishima, lighten the load for him!"

"Understood, Katsuragi-san."

"Yeah yeah," muttered Mana, grumbling under her breath about being nothing more than a proverbial weightlifter.

Rei Ayanami stared stoically at the shifting Angel. "What are your orders, Lieutenant Colonel?"

"Standby!"

xxxx

WHAT HAPPENED?

The change had been sudden.

The [weapon/creature/entity] called Evangelion had always carried a latent [power/essence/identity], but the [experiences/knowledge/perceptions] of Tabris, Sachiel, and Shamshel had indicated the nature of the [armor/bindings/shackles] that they were clad in: without energy, they would shut down, locking the Evangelion itself in place.

In that state, the Evangelion should have been a nonfactor.

A MISCALCULATION.

The power had erupted, so similar and yet alien, so absolute and yet muddled…

WHAT DID IT DO?

There was a strange sense of emptiness, an odd…void…

WHAT DID IT DO?

Panic. Disbelief. No; it couldn't have been…it couldn't! It didn't!

WHAT DID YOU DO?!

Where once was certainty, there was doubt. Where once was integrity, there was weakness. Where once was clarity…there was confusion.

Impossible!

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?! Ramiel howled into the ether as the full breadth of what had occurred finally came to light. THE LIGHT OF MY SOUL! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?! Its brightness was dimmed, its nature was changed! That which was [INDECIPHERABLE] was no more! I AM…NOT I! I AM NO LONGER I! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!

Ramiel's very identity, its very sense of self, had been knocked askew. The actions of the Evangelion had [abridged/deadened/breached] the soul itself, rendering it…lesser. Its song was muddled, filthy, compared to the heavenly dirge it had once been!

The Fifth Angel had already been cognizant of its incomplete nature, yet had taken comfort in the truth that was its own self-perception. No leeway, no mystery; Ramiel was Ramiel…or, to be more accurate, [INDECIPHERABLE] was [INDECIPHERABLE].

Now even that was denied.

HOW DARE YOU!

Fury and rage erupted from the Fifth Angel. Forget LILITH. Forget the Black Moon. These creatures would pay for this atrocity!

KILL KILL KILL KILL KILL KILL KILL KILL KILL!

Other voices suddenly filtered in from beyond; however, they were distant and unclear. It was most likely Tabris and Zeruel. Perhaps…they wanted to discourage this course of action.

What did they know?

The Lilim would pay for what they had done. This heinous crime merited retribution!

They all deserved to die!

DIE. DIE. DIE. DIE. ALL OF YOU, DIE!

xxxx

/Operations Deck, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Alarms blared and startled gasps echoed through the cavernous Operations Deck.

"These energy readings…are unbelievable!" Lieutenant Hyuga paled at the calculations of the MAGI. "The MAGI estimate a power generation of at least five million megawatts!"

Those who were quick with numbers paled; a beam with that much power behind it was capable of delivering energy on the order of one kiloton of TNT…per second. By way of comparison, the infamous atomic bomb that had destroyed Hiroshima had packed a punch of fifteen kilotons of TNT.

"At its current angle…the beam will destroy most of Tokyo-3 and break through into the Geofront," grimly stated Aoba.

"REI! I don't care what you do," ordered Misato, the sheer gravity of the situation gripping everyone. The Angel was preparing a finishing blow. "Just KILL that thing!"

"Understood."

As Unit-00 charged, Misato opened a communications link to Unit-01's Entry Plug. "Shinji-kun!" The boy seemed…listless. "Hey kid, you okay?" Strange murmurs, illegible whispers. "…Ritsuko. Is there any sign of mental contamination?"

"Insufficient data." Ritsuko impatiently tapped at her monocle, driven mad with curiosity regarding Shinji's time inside the Fifth Angel. "It's quite possible that the experience was more than he could handle, even with the protection given by Eva." As morbid as it sounded, it would be nice to have another crazy person to hang around with.

"Let's not jump to conclusions," retorted Misato as she continued her efforts to rouse Shinji from his stupor.

Above them all, the Supreme Commander and the Sub-Director watched events unfold.

"We don't have anything that could stand up to firepower like that," murmured Fuyutsuki, once again standing in his customary position beside Professor Ikari. The Angel had seemed relatively sedate prior to Unit-01's impromptu return. "What the hell did that boy of yours do?"

"What he does best, I'm sure," responded Gendo, seemingly unaffected by the tension. Even as the screens showed the Fifth Angel folding outward over and over – taking on the appearance of multiple five-pointed stars layered upon each other – the Supreme Commander kept a
cool tone. "In a war against beings with power rivaling the gods themselves, a sudden death is not improbable." Then his eyes turned towards Unit-00, which was charging straight towards the Angel. "Even so…I'm old-fashioned enough to actually have faith in those children."

"Unit-01's moving!" exclaimed Miyata. "The umbilical cable has been jettisoned!"

xxxx

Unit-00 moved with a swiftness that Rei Ayanami had long possessed.

Her final task for this operation was to defeat the Angel. There was no question about not reaching it before it fired; there was no choice.

It was her duty.

Seamlessly, she held her prog-knife at the ready, eyes focusing on the glowing core of the Angel. Fittingly, its star-shaped form glowed with the brilliance of the celestial bodies, a beautiful sight that only made its power that much more intimidating. If that beam fired, Tokyo-3 would be totally destroyed.

The glow of the core was blinding. An odd whisper echoed through her head, promising death and vengeance.

Not today.

Rei thrust the blade into the Angel's core. All defense had been forsaken by the beast, all for the sake of its killing blow. She immediately followed up with a strong punch, the impact shattering the red orb into fragments. Light of various shades of red shimmered from within;
without the focus provided by the Angel's will, the energy would release itself in a massive, undirected explosion.

Still deadly, but not as lethal to Tokyo-3.

It could be…contained.

what will you sacrifice?

"The phase space is vanishing! Energy torus is going critical!"

Maya's voice was laced with fear. Understandable; this would be painful.

Nonetheless, this was her duty. This was her purpose.

To be shield and sword for NERV.

For the sake of everyone else, I will sacrifice everything.

"The sync ratio's jumped! Fifty-five percent!"

"REI!"

Misato's panicked shout went ignored as the core of the Fifth Angel detonated.

Unit-00's hands were held up, an instinctive method of erecting a barrier with the AT-Field. Her sync ratio was just high enough for her to consciously create the barrier…but it was not high enough to hold it off completely.

Force and heat bled through the phase space generated by Unit-00. Rei grit her teeth as the pain of the Evangelion transmitted to her: her hands were bubbling, her limbs aflame. It took seconds for her extremities to go numb. I cannot falter. I cannot fail.

I am not allowed to fail.

The burden suddenly seemed…lighter, the burn less intense. Rei did not bother to wonder why, so intent was her resolve on containing the blinding eruption.

Light dimmed. Sound faded.

The First Child let loose an exhausted pant as she let her arms go limp; where the Fifth Angel had once been, there were only shattered fragments of blackened crystal and a demolished mountain, its side now bearing a massive crater. Ash and dust floated through the air, to be
dispersed by the wind. A line of ruined land extended to the sides of 'ground zero' before angling outward; Unit-00's AT-Field had only been capable of diverting the explosion just enough for the blast wave to miss Tokyo-3…but that was enough.

The city was safe. The Fifth Angel was destroyed. NERV would survive to fight another day.

"…well how about that? They did it!"

Aoba's words caused Rei to blink. 'They'?

Tilting her gaze, she suddenly realized why the task of diverting the explosion had become easier: Unit-01 was standing by the side of Unit-00, hands outstretched in a similar manner. "Pilot Ikari?"

Consumed by the Angel, only to somehow escape, injuring the creature in the process. Barely conscious upon his return, yet still standing to fight.

It was not the first time that the Third Child had bewildered her.

It would not be the last, either.

xxxx

Ramiel is no more.

THE FOOL DESERVED IT.

So harsh, Zeruel…though I must say, I am [perplexed/surprised/worried] by Ramiel's last act.

[INDECIPHERABLE] COULD HAVE DESTROYED LILITH, THE ONE WHO CAN PROVIDE THE LOCATION OF OUR [CREATOR/FATHER/SOURCE]. HE WARRANTS NO PITY.

I suppose. Still, his…'feelings' regarding the Lilim's actions were understandable. The Light of Ramiel's Soul was…defiled by the Evangelion; that which was [INDECIPHERABLE] was no more. The sudden [change/degradation/corruption] was more than he could handle.

Zeruel's mocking laughter boomed through the void. THE FOOL WOULD HAVE BEEN BETTER SERVED BY FOLLOWING THE LILIM'S EXAMPLE.

Ah…the irony. The souls of the Lilim were so fragile and weak; as a result, man had an instinctual fear of letting others get closer. However, that loneliness resulted in pain. To remove that pain, Lilim had to open themselves – their souls, to wit – to others…but in doing so, they
invited the opportunity for even greater pain. I believe the Lilim call it the 'Hedgehog's Dilemma'. Yes; in his desire to understand our [enemies/foes/rivals], Ramiel sowed the seeds of his own demise.

I KNOW THAT YOU YOURSELF ARE FASCINATED BY THESE CREATIONS OF LILITH. REMEMBER TABRIS; WE ENDURE THE LIMITATIONS OF OUR CURRENT [FORMS/SHELLS/MASKS] ONLY THROUGH EXPERIENCE, ARMED WITH THE CERTAINTY OF WHAT WE TRULY ARE. DO NOT
BECOME SO ENMESHED THAT YOU FORGET.

Perish the thought, my [equal/kin/sibling]. I will observe as long as necessary; once ADAM is found, such desires will be…arbitrary.

WHAT WILL YOU TELL SEELE ABOUT RAMIEL'S ACTIONS? THEY HAD BEEN OF THE BELIEF THAT OUR [EQUALS/KIN/SIBLINGS] WOULD NOT SEEK TO OUTRIGHT DESTROY THE BLACK MOON.

Kaworu Nagisa chuckled. I will tell them…only what is necessary.

xxxx

/Tokyo-3 Airspace/

A low whistle drifted through the cockpit of the UH-60J Black Hawk. "My my…the Angels certainly leave quite the impression."

The lone pilot took stock of the damage to Hakone from above; ignoring the large crater formed by the Angel's explosion, along with the wedge around which the explosion had flowed, a large number of the city's defensive platforms had been destroyed with pinpoint accuracy by the Fifth's beam weaponry. As far as collateral went, this Angel had been the worst yet.

Still, one couldn't call NERV lazy; even with the coming of night, spotlights were out and construction vehicles were working feverishly to clear debris. The beams of light refracted off of the crystalline remains of the Fifth Angel, casting the city and the surrounding countryside in a blue aurora.

The man chuckled as he scratched at the stubble on his chin. "Alas, if not for errands…" The scene might've made for quite a romantic evening otherwise.

Unfortunately, he was only here to make a delivery.

xxxx

/Keter, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"No casualties from the shelters in the retractable buildings?"

Kozou Fuyutsuki nodded. "Fortunately, Operation Yashima stopped the drill before it broke through the final armor layer. I can't speak for what might have happened otherwise, but it's likely that at least one of the skyscrapers would have fallen into the Geofront."

"Hmm. Who should I offer gratitude to for this small miracle?"

"God is always a good choice."

Gendo Ikari smirked. "Sorry, but the Chairman is still only God in his own mind."

The two shared a small laugh at the old in-joke between them before the Sub-Director's expression turned dour.

"The Committee is…curious about the Fifth Angel's actions."

Gendo grunted as he flipped through sheaf after sheaf of paperwork, with Fuyutsuki assisting. The Operations Director was similarly swamped; the damage wrought by the Fifth had been truly extensive this time around, so he had offered to take some of her workload. Out
of the kindness and goodness of his heart, you see.

That, and it gave him a legitimate excuse to hold off his meeting with the Instrumentality Committee, for another day at least.

Plenty of time.

"Given the energy readings, that last shot would've punched a hole straight into the Geofront. All of our battle plans have revolved around the Angels needing the Geofront to remain intact."

"The old men will get an answer to that question one way or another; they have channels that will be more fruitful in that regard than I." Namely, the Fourth Child. "Speaking of which…the debut of the Jet Alone Project was quite fascinating."

"So I've heard," dryly remarked Fuyutsuki, deciding not to comment on Gendo's decision to 'crash the party', as it were. "…are you really sure you want to go through with this?"

The Professor smirked. "The Scenario encompasses everything, but the Plan continues on, unseen and unbidden. We did as much as possible to limit the fallout; now it's all a matter of buying enough time."

The Sub-Director saw through the layered dialogue and ambiguous wording. "Of course." Sighing, the elderly man scanned over a number of new contracts. "I must say, you're being quite generous."

"A mere carrot for the others. They will have no true reason not to work for us, especially once their proverbial 'leader' comes aboard. NHIS will complain about the loss of employees, but the Modular Technology is enough of a prize for the old men to intervene for us."

"Professor Ikari, Shiro Tokita of NHIS is here to see you."

Speak of the devil. "Send him in."

Tokita strolled into Gendo's cavernous office, eyes locked on the desk. It was an effective way of ignoring the intimidating size and strange designs on the floor and ceiling of Keter.

To be more precise, the anger that infused the man's every step provided an effective deterrent against fear.

"I have to credit your team on its swift arrival. Not more than six hours after the demonstration, and all of them have already arrived in Tokyo-3. You run a tight ship."

"Spare me your praise." Tokita practically spat the word out. "You…you humiliated me. You humiliated NHIS. You humiliated my team! You practically stomped on their faces with your appropriation of the Jet Alone." He leaned on the desk, glaring holes into Gendo's orange
shades. "I don't know what games you're playing, but I will get to the bottom of this."

"It is a legitimate charter. Blame your legal team for missing the measure regarding appropriation."

"They didn't miss it because it WASN'T THERE!" There was the accusation; that Gendo or NERV had somehow doctored the charter, or had falsified in some manner. A bold claim. "You simply desire enough time to steal the Jet Alone's secrets for yourselves…well it won't work. I
know that you desire the technology that enables the Jet Alone to transform and combine…but you won't be able to reverse-engineer it. The only data copy lies in my possession, with an encryption system that can't be beat!" Of course, Tokita didn't mention the paper copies that he himself had produced, but he was the only who knew where they were. He smirked, as if daring the Supreme Commander of NERV to reply. "We'll find a way to overturn this 'appropriation' of yours…and two weeks is nowhere near enough time to replicate the technology on your own."

"Professor Ikari, Inspector Kaji is here to see you."

Gendo, nonplussed by Tokita's words, calmly said, "Send him in."

Tokita turned towards the opening doors of Gendo's office. Walking into the room, briefcase in hand, was a slightly disheveled man who managed to make his tousled appearance - a ruffled blue shirt, with a loose red tie and green khakis, coupled with long brown hair wrapped into a single ponytail – look casual. "Hello, gentlemen! I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

"Not at all, Inspector," remarked the Professor.

"It has been some time, Kaji-san," added Fuyutsuki. "How are things at NERV-2?"

"Mah, busy as usual. Commander Langley still won't take any time off; a shame to be such a workaholic at his age."

Tokita twitched. "Excuse me…but who are you?"

Ryoji Kaji flashed the Head of the Jet Alone Project a relaxed grin, his turquoise eyes gleaming with intelligence. "Nothing more than a simple deliveryman." He calmly placed the leather briefcase upon Gendo's desk.

Once it was opened, the Supreme Commander of NERV pulled out a folder that was immediately recognizable to Tokita. "That's…" No. "That's…" The paper files! "How…" IMPOSSIBLE! "How did-?"

"Your efforts at keeping the folder's location inconspicuous were admirable…but there is such a thing as trying too hard," cheekily said Kaji. Tilting a gaze towards the Professor, he said, "Well, if that's all, I'll be heading back to NERV-2 now. Sayonara!" The Inspector departed with a casual wave of the hand, leaving as abruptly as he had arrived.

Shiro Tokita stood there, dumbfounded by the sudden turn of events. "This…this is information theft!" he sputtered. "Espionage!"

"Given all the trouble you went to hiding these papers, I imagine that no patent has been filed. A curious thing for someone seeking to protect a company secret…unless only a select few others know the details about how the technology works, and I doubt that they know as
much as you do. Furthermore, they would all be part of your team; people that your trust to some degree, but not completely." Gendo's tone was final and all-consuming. "You try to keep it as hidden as possible, only because you know its true potential…and how deadly it would be
in the wrong hands."

The man spoke as if he knew Tokita's very own thought processes. His paranoia regarding the true power behind the Jet Alone was a common joke among members of his team...but it was a well-founded paranoia. "…what are you saying?"

Gendo smirked. "Out of all the possibilities, you had the most potential…and you did 'use it well'. Beyond my wildest imagination, at that."

Those words. 'Use it well'. Those…words…

The letter. The initial hard drive.

"…it…it was…" Gendo Ikari had sent him the plans all those years ago? "I…I don't even…"

"Despite what the world may think, there is always a method to my madness." The Professor stood up from his chair with a flourish, heading towards a section of the wall…only to tap his feet three times and pirouette, followed by the extraction of a keycard from his cloak that he slid against the wall.

An elevator promptly opened up. "I leave the paperwork to you Fuyutsuki. I'll be occupied for a while." He turned towards Tokita. "I have something to show you, Mr. Tokita."

The man from NHIS grit his teeth out of frustration, his growing confusion sparring with his stubbornness. "You're trying to entrap me…see to it that I 'know too much', that I'll be unable to get away from NERV's clutches…I know how this game goes, Ikari."

"And yet your curiosity is eating at you."

…damn it.

Shiro Tokita followed Gendo Ikari into the nondescript elevator, asking, "Where exactly are we going?"

"To where the greatest of NERV's secrets are kept: Terminal Dogma."

The sound of the doors sliding shut was fittingly ominous.

xxxx

/Medical Ward, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

"…glurgh…"

Everything felt weird.

"You are awake."

Shinji Ikari blinked, trying to get a fix on his surroundings. The familiar white colors were an immediate clue, even though they seemed uncharacteristically muted. "…ur…"

"Pilot Ikari."

The cobwebs that seemed to inhabit his head slowly drifted away as the Third Child turned his head; sitting beside his bed was none other than Sergeant Ayanami, clad in her favored military fatigues. Noticeably different, however, where the white bandages that wrapped around both of her arms from the shoulder on down. "…wha….what happened…?" His voice sounded slurred. Why was it so hard to talk?

"When the Fifth Angel was killed, the energy it had been building up for its beam weapon was released in an uncontrolled explosion. My AT-Field was able to divert a portion of blast, but the heat and force still managed to leak through. It is fortunate that you were able to assist when you did; without the added strength of Unit-01's AT-Field, Tokyo-3 itself might have been damaged."

"I…um…okay…" Remembering felt like swimming through molasses. Everything he was sensing felt…disconnected, somehow. "I was…inside

the Angel…and then…" Frustration. Something powerful emerged, something…primal. Then there was light, and smoke. "I was…out…?"

"Yes. You broke out of the Fifth Angel after being consumed."

"…and then…" He could barely remember anything from after that; only a single, all-consuming desire to keep moving, to not fall. "I…remember that…I had to do something. Anything." The very idea of falling down had seemed…insulting, for some reason. He turned his gaze
towards Ayanami, eyes lingering on her bandaged arms. "Are you…okay?"

"The damage was mostly superficial. The bandages will come off by Monday."

"Oh…okay."

"…I must apologize."

The stupor that stubbornly seemed to cling to him was suddenly whisked away by sheer surprise. "…uh…how come…?"

"There was a time during the battle when I had come to accept that you had died."

Oddly enough, she didn't seem that embarrassed by this apology of hers. Maybe it wasn't that big of a deal; then again, Ayanami didn't seem like the type of person to apologize at all, unless it involved a matter involving NERV. Or his father. "Um…that's okay…" The thought of why she apologized brought realization. "That's right…I was eaten! Man, Kensuke's going to freak!"

Ayanami blinked. "…I was under the impression that people were offended if you assumed that they had died."

"Why's that?"

"There were many times where I heard soldiers act in an indignant manner if their fellows assumed that they had fallen in the line of duty, or if they had assumed an injury was more dire than in reality."

Shinji blinked. "…um…" He recalled a few of Tomoe's stories along those lines; heck, there were a number of Impact veterans living in Okayama-2 that were close friends of his uncle, most of whom tended to act in a jocular manner regarding their 'inability to die' in casual conversations. And she thinks I'm the same way?

He couldn't help it; the contrast was too stark.

The Third Child laughed.

"…something strikes you as humorous?"

And just like that, the laughter died. Rei was as stoic was ever. "…man Rei, you're too serious."

The First Child arched a blue eyebrow, as if confused about why that would be a bad thing.

It had suddenly occurred to Shinji that he had used her first name casually. Maybe that was why she was confused? Bah, I'm too tired to think straight. That was a valid cover for his next words. "You should smile more."

"Why?"

Shinji resisted the urge to groan. "What do you mean 'why'? Do you need a reason?"

"It's only logical that one have a reason to do anything."

The boy recalled the conversation he had had with his father after the dinner at Ritsuko Akagi's home, about how her prism through which she viewed the world was tied to NERV. He wasn't kidding."Well…what makes you happy?"

Rei was silent, her exotic red eyes almost blank. "I am…unsure. There are multiple definitions of happiness."

"…then..." Shinji sighed, cursing his middling nerves. Why was it so hard to think? "Well…what do you enjoy? What satisfies you?"

There was a more immediate answer. "Successfully carrying out my duty. It makes me feel…content."

That'll have to do. "Okay, just think about that feeling, and nothing but that feeling."

Rei frowned, as though actively concentrating on the task given to her.

"And now do like my cousin would sometimes say: let your face be the mirror that…um, reflects your emotions, or something like that." GODS, why am I so tired? I sound like a moron! "…just…" Sighing, the boy settled for defeat. "Just…just smile."

Rei Ayanami stared at him.

Her lips twitched.

Then they curled upward into a smile.

It wasn't big, or overblown. It wasn't a bombastic grin, or full of cheer. It was small, and somewhat dainty.

Yet, combined with her already striking features…it made her look radiant.

Shinji was not too tired to blush. "Yeah…you should do that more often." The lingering fatigue was clawing back, drawing him further down. "It makes you look…cute…" And then he was out.

The moment he lapsed back into a deep sleep, Rei's face returned to a frown, her expression one of confusion. I look…cute?

xxxx

/Keter, NERV-1, Tokyo-3/

Paper, paper, and more paper. Given everything that had been taken away by Second Impact, Fuyutsuki thought it was quite cruel that paperwork had survived.

His eyes flicked towards the wall where the hidden elevator had been. They've been down there for over two hours now…

The nigh-invisible doors slid open, and out stepped Gendo Ikari – calm and collected as ever – and Shiro Tokita, the latter looking somewhat paler than before.

It was only natural, given what was down in Terminal Dogma.

"You…you're insane, you know that?" remarked Tokita, looking at the Professor with a cross between bewilderment, disbelief, and awe.

"NERV was tasked to save the world from all who threaten it. I take that duty quite seriously." Turning towards the Sub-Director, he asked, "I see you're as proficient as ever."

Fuyutsuki didn't bother to call Gendo out on the fact that he had purposefully left him here to take care of the rest of the red tape. The Supreme Commander would either act gracious or act smarmy about how his plan gave him a victory no matter the outcome. So he settled for replying, "Is he now aware of what we're dealing with?"

"I'll let him answer."

Tokita swallowed, wiping a sweaty palm on his shoulder. "I…I need to think for a bit. I'll help you, but I need to think about how I can get the rest of my team to stay here without being suspicious…" The man paced for a few moments before the proverbial light bulb clicked on. "Have them go along with the supposed 'hiring', as though confident that the appropriation will be overturned…make them accept the contract, with them having the impression we'll be fleecing NERV of funds before we're whisked back to NHIS…and when the appropriation is not overturned, I'll influence them to stay onboard simply because we can't afford to let NERV have free access to the Jet Alone…yes, yes, that could work…!"

Fuyutsuki raised an eyebrow, mildly amused by the man's vocal thought processes. "That's very quick thinking on your part."

"Conviction does a person little good if it takes too long to muster it," countered Tokita. "I've worked with the members of the Jet Alone Project for years; I've come to know them quite well. They will follow my lead, albeit begrudgingly. And I will be just as obstinate."

"Oh?" remarked Gendo. "You would act…antagonistic, even knowing what you know?"

"Don't misunderstand; I will help you. However, even though your actions at the demonstration today were justified…the people on my team will always see your appropriation of Jet Alone Project as heavy-handed and blatantly spiteful. Though they will work with NERV, they will never work for NERV, as it would mean submitting to you." Tokita readjusted his collar, starting to calm down after the revelations he had experienced. "Regardless of your reasons, you all but spat on all the hard work my team did, even if it was all an act. They will never forgive you. Therefore, I won't either."

Kozou Fuyutsuki was mildly impressed by the man's loyalty. Perhaps Ikari was on to something when he left the Modular Technology in his hands.

Glancing towards Gendo, Tokita continued, "Speaking of which…how secure are your facilities?"

"We've used the excuse of the Fifth Angel's penetration into the armor layers to sweep our systems for the sake of 'system integrity'. We're clean of foreign surveillance for the time being, but SEELE will undoubtedly utilize one of their deep cover agents to reinsert their own eyes
into our systems. This will allow MAGI-00 to review and appropriately doctor the security footage with no one the wiser. Since I know you're quick to learn on the job, we won't need to use such measures again."

Shiro Tokita couldn't help but mentally tremble at the high-level game this man seemingly played at all times. Then again, Gendo Ikari was up against a group that could manipulate the UN itself; nothing less than exceptional cunning would suffice.

"Well, I suppose you need to go ahead and speak with your team." Gendo handed four thick folders to Tokita. "These are the contracts for you and every member of the Jet Alone Project; you'll find everything in order." To cap off the meeting, Gendo pulled a can of spray cheese
out of his cloak and poured a rather liberal portion into his mouth.

Shiro Tokita quietly took the folders – staring warily at the Supreme Commander of NERV – before departing.

Fuyutsuki sighed. "I sure hope you know what you're doing."

The Professor gave a cheesy grin. "I think he'll fit in just fine."

"If you insist." Fuyutsuki moved on to a different matter. "What about our request?"

"After this battle? It won't take them long to grant my request for the transfer. I have my suspicions as to what the old men will ask of in return…but it won't amount to much." Gendo held the can towards Fuyutsuki. "Hungry?"

"I'm not a fan of spray cheese."

"Heathen."

xxxx

/Next Day/

/October 11, 2015/

/Misato's Apartment, Tokyo-3, Japan/

A techno-style jingle came from the TV, accompanied by NERV's red logo against a white background. "Gendo Ikari here!" Though the man was not present himself, his voice still came forth, intentionally loud and robust; the image suddenly changed to that of the Fifth Angel. "This, is an Angel! Eight sides, blue, math-shaped; not very angelic-looking. Probably what communists think Angels look like. Speaking of Soviets, its shield is like iron!" Cue footage of artillery shells exploding against its AT-Field. "However, iron melts at approximately fifteen-
hundred-and-thirty-five degrees Celsius! How to melt such a large object? That is a question that NERV has an answer to:" The image suddenly showed the barrel of an enormous white rifle. "Firing a stream of positrons!" The blue torrent erupted from the weapon; abruptly,
the footage cutaway to the Fifth Angel, now situated on a mountainside outside of Tokyo-3, preparing to fire upon the city itself. "And if all else fails?" The tip of the Angel suddenly exploded as a purple Evangelion burst forth. "Giant robots! Because a giant robot always beats iron!" The image faded away into whiteness, right as NERV's logo – bearing the caption 'NOW YOU'RE THINKING WITH EVAS' – slid in from the side. "And everything else, for that matter. Gendo Ikari, we're done here!"

"…your dad makes the best propaganda videos ever," gushed Kensuke, staring intently at the television.

"Eh, I kinda thought the last one was better," admitted Toji.

Shinji had no comment, since he was still busy nursing the small bump on his head that Toji had given him. The two boys had come over to the apartment around lunchtime – free from school due to it being Sunday – for their own reasons.

Kensuke had come to interrogate Shinji about his time inside the Angel, as expected.

Toji…well, he had come to give Shinji one good lump on the noggin.

Sort of understandable, since the defense platform Unit-01 had landed on after escaping from the Angel – the one that the Evangelion crushed – was the one containing the Suzuhara Residence. Even so, Shinji had been compelled to protest his innocence, citing such things as
delirium and near-unconsciousness.

This had not deterred Toji. "I told you that the first time was only to give ya a warning, and I'm a man of my word!" he had said.

Misato, being who she was, had immediately taken off with that line, admonishing Shinji on not being as manly. "Come on Shinji-kun, you should at least be enough of a man to keep your word. One bump's not gonna kill you!"

Naturally, since this involved Misato stepping out of her room to grab a beer, this had gotten Toji and Kensuke into a tizzy regarding her choice of attire, namely the lilac tank top and jean shorts that were cut off at the thighs.

Oh, but Shinji was on to her scheme! He had seen that calculating look in her eye; her clothing and demeanor was just another game to try and get under his skin, to get him to 'loosen up', all by using Toji and Kesnuke as her weapons. Well I won't fall for it!

"Seriously dude, what is wrong with you?"

Shinji was brought out of his musing by Toji. "Huh?"

"You live," He pointed over the couch, where Misato was lounging back in her chair, happily sipping from a Yebisu can as she hummed a ditty about 'no more paperwork'. "with a total babe."

"Probability of being a beauty is one!" added Kensuke.

"Who likes to show off."

"Clothing reveals ample curves!"

"And she has a penguin that can smoke cigars for a pet!" Toji pointed towards the sliding glass doors that opened up to the terrace; standing outside – calmly watching the floating clouds above – was Pen-Pen, a lit cigar hanging from his claws.

"Immune to lung cancer?" queried Kensuke, readjusting his shades as he whipped out his video camera, recording the penguin in his natural habitat.

"And this is ALL ON TOP of being the pilot of a giant robot that's already killed three Angels!"

Before Shinji could correct Toji (after all, Unit-00 had dealt the killing blow to the Fifth Angel), the bespectacled Gendotaku raised his index finger. "Technically not giant robots in the strictest sense of the term 'giant robot'."

"Whatever," retorted Toji before turning back towards Shinji. "You've practically got it made; so just do me a favor and not land on my home again."

"You do know I've been ordered to go to psychiatric therapy, right?" Given the uncertainty regarding the condition of his mind after being consumed by the Fifth Angel, Dr. Akagi had ordered at least one therapy session with a psychiatrist. His first trip was scheduled for tomorrow after school.

"Bah, you're tough as nails! You don't need no therapy," trumpeted Toji, holding his chin high. "Now if ya had a broken leg or something, I can understand therapy for that sorta thing…but to just sit there on a couch while some namby-pamby asks you questions about your feelings?
Screw that noise!"

Shinji sighed, sending a pleading look at Misato. Come on, throw me a bone here!

The woman giggled. "You know Toji-san, I've had to go through some psychiatric therapy in my time."

"You're a lady though! Men are SUPPOSED to be tougher."

"You do know that Ayanami-san can beat everyone of us with one hand tied behind her back," countered Shinji.

"Tougher emotionally Shin-man, emotionally!"

"I don't know…" Kensuke grinned, cupping his chin between his thumb and index finger as though in deep thought. "Ayanami doesn't seem like the kind to get phased by anything…"

Toji whirled towards Kensuke. "Stop trying to undermine me!"

Kensuke ignored Toji's outcry, looking slyly towards Shinji. "By the way, I've been hearing certain rumors about yesterday's battle, about some kind of strange new Gundam. Mind sharing the details?"

Apparently, from what Misato had told him, the Jet Alone had been appropriated for use by NERV, and had been used to battle the Fifth Angel. Not that he had been aware of it. "I was kind of eaten by the Angel before it got here, so I can't say anything."

Kensuke grinned. "So there was one!"

The doorbell suddenly rang.

"Shinji-kun, could you get that?"

It was as good an excuse as any to remove himself from the conversation. Shinji got to his feet and headed towards the entry corridor, peering through the peephole on the front door.

The sight of three women – one brown-haired adult, a red-eyed teen with short silver hair, and a bespectacled teen with long black hair – in JSSDF uniforms made him pause. "Uh…Misato-san?"

"What is it?"

"We've got three girls in military uniform at the door."

Naturally, this piqued Toji and Kensuke's interest, judging by how they were now peering around the corner towards the front door.

"Ah, those are our new neighbors! Let em' in!" called out Misato.

Shrugging, Shinji undid the lock and pulled the door open. "Um…yes?"

The oldest of the trio remarked, "This is Lieutenant Colonel Misato Katsuragi's residence?"

"Yes ma'am," replied Shinji, mentally grimacing at how stern she looked.

"So you must be the Third Child," remarked the silver-haired girl, scrutinizing him with red eyes that seemed uncomfortably familiar. It was just like his first meeting with Rei Ayanami all over again…even down to the disappointment visible in her expression. "For someone who killed two Angels and survived getting eaten by one, you're nothing like I imagined."

"That's quite rude of you, Mana," admonished the long-haired girl. "Don't mind my sister. She has very little tact."

The girl – apparently named Mana – rolled her eyes, prompting Shinji to blink. "Uh…"

THUD.

Shinji turned around at the sound; Kensuke had collapsed to the ground, hand clutching at his heart. "Cute girls…in military uniforms…my greatest weakness…!"

Mana rolled her eyes whilst the long-haired girl settled for giggling. The older woman sighed before turning her brown eyes toward Shinji. "I felt it would be courteous to introduce ourselves to our new…coworkers."

"Um…nice to meet you?" What's going on? And why does she sound so upset?

"Ah, it's always good to meet new neighbors! Keeps life fresh!" Misato waltzed around the corner, a happy grin on her face and a beer in her hand. "Welcome to Tokyo-3!"

Mana blinked. The long-haired girl muttered "Oh my." The older woman stared, slightly gobsmacked by Misato's wardrobe.

"Oh come on, I'm off-duty! That means kicking back and relaxing!" The Chief of Section 2, Operations Director of NERV-1 and a recognized Lieutenant Colonel of the Japanese Strategic Air Self-Defense Force chugged down a Yebisu beer and let loose a loud belch. "Besides, it's my
home. I could go nude if I wanted to."

Shinji felt his skin burning with embarrassment. GODS, she never stops! Not even in front of strangers!

The older woman's jaw was slack, the long-haired girl looked mortified, while the one named Mana…looked intrigued. "Huh. Actually relaxing when off the job?" She shot a pointed look at the woman behind her. "This lady speaks words of wisdom. Maybe you could learn from her
and chill out once in a while."

Mana's advice merited a cold glare. "Cut the sass."

Misato immediately intervened in her usual fashion. "Shinji-kun and friends, allow me to introduce our new neighbors: Sergeant First Class Hikari Kirishima, and her two daughters Mana Kirishima and Mayumi Yamagishi, pilots of the Shining Gundam and the Rising Gundam."

Kensuke was immediately on his feet. "Pilots? Of Gundams? Are they true Gundams?"

Misato laughed. "I'll let you be the judge of that." She disappeared for a few moments before returning with a few sheets of paper. "Had to make a report of my own observations of the Jet Alone's demonstration. Take a gander!" She shot the elder Kirishima an innocent wink. "And
don't worry, there's nothing in there that'll get anyone in trouble."

Hikari twitched.

Kensuke looked at the report with intense fascination. "…legitimate Gundam designs?" He flipped the pages, scanning every word, his eyes growing wider with each passing moment. "…anti-gravity? Henshin? GATTAI?" The boy immediately whipped out his video camera. "Cute
girls in military uniforms who are also GUNDAM PILOTS! Tell me your story, so that I might preserve it for future generations!"

Mana stared, whilst Mayumi fidgeted nervously. They looked…confused by the boy's actions.

Hikari, on the other hand, decided to cut the welcome short. "You'll have the opportunity to get acquainted tomorrow. We have to finish…unpacking. Come on girls." As the older woman walked down the corridor, Mana calmly followed – her eyes lingering on Shinji before
breaking away – while Mayumi bowed and waved awkwardly before departing.

Shinji and Toji blinked. Kensuke looked a little silly and somewhat downtrodden, standing there with his rolling video camera.

"Wark."

"You said it Pen-Pen!" agreed Misato; standing beside her was the warm-water penguin, a burning cigar still gripped in his claws. "You try to be nice to people…ah well, they'll warm up eventually." She took another gulp of her beer before waltzing back into the kitchen.

The Third Child felt like leaving the premises. "Misato-san, I'm heading out for a while."

"Make sure to be back by six! It's your turn to make dinner!"

The boy sighed as he walked out of the apartment; curious about his sudden decision, Toji and Kensuke followed. "What's eatin' you, Shin-man?"

"Misato-san…she can be so embarrassing. I mean, did you see how she acted in front of our new neighbors! It was mortifying!"

The jock shrugged. "Maybe she just didn't like em' and wanted them to leave. Ain't much of a con, and she has a lot of pros. Verdict: a lucky bastard is what you are!"

The son of Gendo Ikari rolled his eyes at Toji's perverted analysis, turning towards a focused Gundam fanboy. "You okay Kensuke?"

"Pondering about our classes tomorrow. I'm…curious if those two girls will end up in our homeroom."

"The chick with the glasses seemed nice enough, but that girl with the silver hair…" Toji grimaced. "She seems okay, but I don't think I need to tell you why the red eyes freak me out."

Shinji's thoughts drifted back towards the night he had had dinner at Ritsuko Akagi's house, where the existence of nephilim had been revealed to him; in particular, that Rei was a nephilim, as were the two pilots of the Jet Alone Project. Kirishima-san looked sort of like Rei…
but Yamagishi-san looked like a normal girl. One that needed some sunlight, but a normal girl nevertheless. "Well…from what I've been told by Misato-san, they are like Rei. You know…with the super strength and everything."

Kensuke and Toji boggled.

The former nearly collapsed. "On top of everything else…they're also superhumans?" Had Kensuke been a rocket, he would've already been blasting off to Jupiter.

The latter…simply chuckled. "Oh really?"

Shinji blinked. "Uh…you sound happy."

"Because Shin-man, we troublemakers can recognize one of our own. That Kirishima girl is DEFINITELY a troublemaker. If she can keep Ayanami's attention off of me, I'll be a happy man!"

Shinji Ikari suddenly had a foreboding feeling about tomorrow. This can only end badly.

xxxx

Elsewhere.

In a dark room, dark monoliths suddenly came into being.

Gunmetal gray, marked with red text and a strange symbol: a spiraling lance with two prongs, crossed over with a thick zweihander. Together, the two weapons sat over a blank mask with two eyeholes, forming a bizarre coat of arms of sorts. However, the text itself sat on the upper
half of the monoliths:

SEELE

01

SOUND ONLY​

The numbers ran from '01' to '12', for there were twelve in all.

This was where the true power of the world, and its darkness, was concentrated. These were the people who created and engineered the Scenario for Instrumentality.

This was SEELE.

"The battle against the Fifth Angel cut it closer than I would have liked," growled SEELE-11, his voice distorted and modulated to prevent any chance of identification. No one was physically present; every member hailed from all over the world, separated by countries and continents. They had interests to watch over and people to influence in their own circles, which overlapped with those of other members.

However, when it came to oversight of the Scenario, everything else was secondary. "We were under the impression that the Black Moon was…sacrosanct. Has that changed?" asked SEELE-08.

"Tabris has been fairly forthcoming on the matter. When Unit-01 broke free of Ramiel's hold, it damaged the Angel's soul on a fundamental level. Being a creature born of the Tree of Life, adaptation was not its forte," explained SEELE-01.

SEELE-03 grumbled. "I am wary. Tabris has always had his own agenda. He will backstab us given the chance."

"We hold the trump card called ADAM," countered SEELE-12. "He has made no secret of how desperately the Angels desire to reunite with their source. He knows that our research into duplicating the S2 Organ obtained from the Fourth Angel will render the First Angel obsolete
for Instrumentality."

"At this current stage, it is more convenient to use ADAM as the catalyst, since there is no guarantee that the S2 Organ can be created artificially," remarked SEELE-05. "It is still mutually beneficial for us and Tabris to keep ADAM alive, albeit locked away and hidden from the prying eyes of his kin."

"On a positive note, the Jet Alone demonstration and the ensuing battle provided conclusive proof that NHIS somehow managed to procure the Modular Technology," commented SEELE-06.

SEELE-07 chuckled. "Very impressive, what they've managed to do with it. In proper hands, it will accomplish far more."

"With the Dead Sea Scrolls as our cipher, we are continuously decrypting data gathered from the White Moon and the Black Moon. With the Modular Technology, we will have the means to truly replicate the Lance of Longinus and the Sword of Uriel," stated SEELE-10. "Not
the imperfect cudgels that we currently employ."

"And what of Gendo Ikari?" muttered SEELE-04. "That fool is always a wildcard. Will he hand over the Modular Technology to us? Or will we need to utilize…more overt measures?"

"There will be no need for that," reassured SEELE-01. "He desires another Evangelion to supplement NERV-1."

"If he wants another Evangelion, he will have to send all data regarding the Modular Technology to NERV-3, where it will be decrypted by those who are more in line with our interests. There will be no budging on this issue," declared SEELE-02.

SEELE-09 sneered audibly. "He will not give up the Jet Alone. He will try and reverse-engineer it for himself."

"Let him try. Regardless, this will only amount to bluster and bravado on our part and his; our little agent has already procured Shiro Tokita's flash drive containing the data, and is en route back to NERV-2 as we speak." SEELE 01 chuckled; Inspector Kaji was quite the useful
little tool, able to slip in and out of places with terrifying ease…and all with a casual grin on his face. A shame that the man was so damned hard to get a read on; he'd be used far more often otherwise. "We will conduct our verbal sparring as usual, but in the end, Ikari will give up
just enough data to satisfy us while being all but completely useless for our plans. With the flash drive, we can circumvent his little games while allowing him to think that he's won. There is some manner of customized encryption that will most likely delete all of the data if the flash drive is accessed incorrectly, but that is a minor matter."

SEELE-05 laughed. "Given enough time to work on it. Fortunately, with the Angels attacking regularly, time is no longer an issue we need to worry about." There was a slight pause. "Did our illustrious thief acquire Tokita's computers as well?"

"Too conspicuous. We have an agent inside NHIS that will see to it," answered SEELE-10.

"These last fifteen years have been tense and fraught with uncertainty since Katsuragi betrayed us in Antarctica." SEELE-06 resisted the urge to snarl; so much of their work had been set back because of that man. "Fortunately, things have turned out well for us. We are
consolidating more and more pawns, and the masses no longer doubt the necessity of NERV's existence. It…helps that NERV's Supreme Commander is actually popular." He bit out that last sentence, as if personally offended by the fact that he had said it.

SEELE-11 remarked, "Popular or not, that man is always scheming. As is Tabris. However, I trust that they are contained for the time being."

SEELE-01 calmly replied, "This organization has spent decades paving the way for Instrumentality. The gateway to Heaven has been made known to us; all that remains is to recreate Peter's Key. In that matter, neither Ikari nor the Angels can stop us. The outcome is a foregone conclusion."

"On that note, which Evangelion will we be sending to NERV-1?" asked SEELE-09.

SEELE-07 snorted. "Isn't it obvious?"

xxxx

/Commander Langley's Office, NERV-2, Berlin-2, Germany/

The buzzing in his pocket brought Pieter Langley to a halt, mouth set to bite down on a large pork sandwich. "…bah." My luck to get a call when I'm having lunch.

Retracting the cell phone from his pocket, his irritation faded away when he saw the ID. Now, there was only cold dread.

Sighing, he flipped it open, already knowing what he was about to hear. "Commander Langley speaking."

"The UN Security Council and the Instrumentality Committee have approved Gendo Ikari's transfer request. After conferring with the Marduk Institute, it has been decided that Evangelion Unit-02 and the Second Child will be reassigned to NERV-1."

"Understood. I will begin the preparations immediately." Pieter Langley hung up, sitting silently before looking back at his sandwich.

He wasn't hungry anymore.

xxxx

To be continued…

Next time…

Episode 10: A Day in the Life I (CHOICES)


xxxx

(And down goes Ramiel. And Shiro Tokita has officially made it beyond a single-episode character.)