Shinji Steel 48

Disclaimer; I do not own Neon Genesis Evangelion or Max Steel. Wish I did, though.

(Katsuragi/Ikari/Sohryu apartment; Shinji's 'and Ritsuko's' Lovely Suite; same time)

Opening her eyes, Rits smiles dreamily at the appearance of Shinji examining her intently. As he kisses her forehead, she giggles as he gently strokes her uncovered breasts. Feeling semi-playful herself, she reaches down to his member and gently encircles it with her left hand.

"Shinji, you know I have that appointment with Dr Akagi today. And one of the things she told me was…"

"No sex on the day the removal's scheduled for prior to removal and after removal for no less than a month." At her nod, Shinji sighs before grinning. "I know, babe. But at least we're getting another step closer to becoming parents, Rits."

Rits' smile goes even wider at the thought of finally becoming a Mother and Shinji becoming a loving Father. Much like Josh was toward Shinji.

"If he and Laura get married, do you think they'd like us to babysit for them? Kat and Berto, too, when it comes to their kids?"

"We can always ask them. Quite frankly, though, I think they'd be delighted to have us watching over them." Rits can't help but give Shinji a grin before sighing. "What's on your mind, Rits?"

"It's about the car."

"It's too small, isn't it?" Rits can't help but giggle at a perplexed Shinji before kissing him.

"It's big enough, baby. It's the color. I'm not a fan of 'blue' as the color."

"What color do you like?"

"I like it 'black'. As it was the color it was the same day you got it for your birthday."

"I'll put in a work order with the shop for a repaint. Any other items to go on the work order?"

"A child seat for the back seat. Mainly for newborns." Shinji can't help but admire how much thought Rits had put into it right then and there. "I'm not too crazy with the idea of carrying a newborn baby in my arms when we get home from the Hospital. Who knows what can happen out there?"

"Oh how true that is. Misato may be reckless, but at least she somehow manages to avoid hitting other cars." Rits can't help but snort at that. Eying Shinji's hardened member, she smirks before wrapping her lips around it. "Rits… I thought…" Rits unwraps her lips before giving Shinji a sly smirk.

"She was talking about regular sex. She said nothing about me not giving the man I love a blowjob." Stroking him softly, she adds, "I'll just keep giving you hot blowjobs for until after I've recovered."

With that, she resumes sucking on him. Shinji collapsing back onto his bed and softly running his fingers through Rits' hair. As she sucks on him, he smiles softly before speaking up.

"I've been looking at houses…" Rits suddenly bolts upward, all thoughts of oral fun curtailed for the time being. "You okay?"

"Yeah. I could have sworn you just said you've been looking at houses."

"That I did. That I've been. On what's left of the 'net, anyway." Shinji's suddenly surprised when Rits resumes sucking him. Only in a slowly torturous, yet sultry, manner. "Rits… I…" She quickly stops sucking before removing her mouth.

"Silence." The tone in Rits' voice quickly gets his attention as she goes on. Speaking in a slightly cheesy, yet adorable, Russian accent. It's so adorable, Shinji can barely keep from chuckling.

"I'm to interrogate you, Comrade Beloved Ikari. Is that clear?" Keeping his face and voice as 'timid' as possible, he gives his reply.

"It is."

"Excellent. We may get along far better with just you and me than if it was Mikhail and Yuri doing the interrogation. Do you feel the same?"

"I do."

"Then we shall begin!" Shuddering in ill-concealed mirth, Rits asks, "So, you've been looking at houses, have you?" It's taking everything in Shinji to not laugh himself silly. Rits' Russian accent may be cheesy, but it makes her sound so cute to him.

"I have nothing further to say on that. I'd wanted it to be a surprise originally, but I figured if I'd give you a heads up…"

"You figured wrong, Comrade Beloved Ikari." Giving him a sly smirk, she adds, "I have ways of making you talk! We can either use pleasurable means…"

With that, she wraps her lips back around his member, teasing his tip with her tongue. Sucking briefly, she ends it before looking back up at him. A grumpy scowl that's threatening to become a happy smile, from what Shinji could see anyway.

"Or we can… BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

Rits can't take anymore and collapses onto Shinji. A totally helpless giggling wreck. Upon feeling Shinji wrap his arms around her, Rits can't help but giggle into his right shoulder.

"Oh man! How can those interrogators speak with such a straight face? It's just not possible!"

"I'm afraid it's one of those questions that are doomed to remain unanswered." Shinji's words can't help but get Rits to nod before Shinji adds, "I gotta tell you, though. Your Russian accent was too cute to not want to do this." Upon feeling Shinji putting his lips to hers, Rits taps his lips with her tongue.

Just as they're about to kiss, however…

"Oh, Mr. and Mrs. Ikari, you've appointments today you don't want to be late for."

Misato's voice is too clear for the door to be closed. Warily looking toward it, they see Misato with an impish smile on her face. A beet red Asuka smiling just as impishly behind her. Yet Shinji could easily tell their impish smiles are forced in order to conceal their shared sadness and anger. Before he could say anything, a naked and agitated Rits gets up and sighs.

"We know. We were just discussing what we're going to do after the war ends. You know, kids, car, house. The works."

"That's a good discussion to have." Misato grins before turning back to a beet red Asuka. "Wouldn't you agree?"

"So good. Must go for hours." Rits notices where Asuka's looking and smirks.

"Like what you see, Asuka?" Rits' question snaps Asuka out of her trance of staring at Shinji, causing her to go even redder.

"Uh, gotta go!"

They blink. Asuka's gone so fast, there's only an Asuka-shaped puff of smoke in her place before it dissipates. Even more, for a brief instant, they could swear the puff is smiling lecherously even as it dissipates. Misato can't help but lightly chuckle at the redhead's antics.

"It would appear as if she's not over her crush on you just yet, Shinji. Heck, Kaji even told me about when Asuka had the biggest crush on him. Only for her to find out that he sees her more like a 'daughter' than a potential spouse."

"How'd she take it?"

Looking down at himself, Shinji can't help but blush furiously as he ducks up under the covers. Upon hearing Rits and Misato giggling, Shinji can't help but feel sheepish. Rits, however, decides to have mercy on him and closes the door. Much to Misato's protests and Shinji's relief. However, it's short-lived as Rits crosses back over to him. Sultry sway to her hips and a seductively evil smirk on her face.

"Now, where were we, Comrade Beloved Ikari?" The return of Rits' cheesy and adorable Russian accent has Shinji thinking only one thought.

'How'd I get to be so lucky?'

(Asuka's room; same time)

As she pumps her fingers in and out, Asuka imagines herself doing what Shinji and Rits were doing. Only with Ken on the bed. Feeling her orgasm wash over her, Asuka closes her eyes and throws her head back in rapture before crying out.

"SHINJI!" Her eyes suddenly bolting open in horror, Asuka shakes her head. 'No, no, no! He's taken and marrying Rits! Bad Asuka! Bad Asuka!' Curling herself into a ball, Asuka whimpers as she slumps to the side.

"I'm so fucked up." Upon hearing her door open, she looks and sees Misato giving her a kind smile. With tears starting to come forward, she asks, "Why couldn't I have met him before she did?"

"It's part of life, Asuka. Sometimes you get lucky enough to find a guy you can make a family with and stay with him. Other times you do something monumentally stupid even though you landed the one for you by letting them go. Only for them to either wait for you or leave you in the past. Or sometimes another girl will just beat you to him before you can even meet him."

"So it's all a matter of shitty timing that results in an enduring situation, then."

"I'm afraid so, Asuka." Sitting beside the redhead, Misato adds, "If it's any consolation, Touji told me Ken would like to see you again."

"It is." Her face brightening, she says, "Maybe Shinji and Rits would like to do a double date with Ken and I."

"So you and Rits can hash things out between you? Okay. But you do need to discuss what you'd just said with her as I'm quite sure she and Shinji heard you." Asuka can't help but gulp while blushing furiously.

"I wasn't even thinking of him, though! I was thinking of Ken when Shinji's name flew out!" Sighing dismally, she looks back down and adds, "I'm so badly fucked up, it's not even funny."

"You're not fucked up." Misato' voice gets her to look back up at her. "You're a beautiful young lady that wants a man to call her own. Even if said man's already taken."

"But, I…"

"It's alright, Asuka." Misato gives Asuka a grin before wrapping the redhead in a hug. The grin goes playful as she whispers into Asuka's ear. "Or you and Rits could do a ménage a trois with Shinji." Asuka's face can't help but go beet red again with her next words. "You could always ask her if she'd be interested in sharing Shinji's love."

"I really don't think she'd be interested, Misato." Curious, she then asks, "How're things between you and Kaji, though?"

"Things are starting up again. But I'm sure you heard the same thing the others did about 'Dumbass' plans for Shinji."

Asuka's beet red blush fades to a pale white before going to a furious red. As she speaks, her voice is low and at a hiss.

"You bet your ass I did. How can Shinji even be related to someone that… evil? I mean, 'Dumbass' makes 'Shithead' Hitler look like a nice guy. And Hitler was evil to the core, too." Tears falling from her eyes, she asks, "Just why does he want Shinji to be willing to die?"

"You heard the same thing Shinji and I did the night Maya was picked up. He's doing it to get Shinji's Mother back out of Unit-01. Even if it kills the rest of humanity and Shinji."

"Does Shinji know yet?"

"They're trying to figure out a way to break it to him. Gently." Sniffing the air, Misato hears her stomach rumbling and smiles. Asuka sharing the same smile for she knows the smell all too well. Breakfast. "But at least one thing's for sure. Shinji's a far better man than 'Dumbass' is."

"Yep. I'm guessing his family's responsible for it. And it's up to all of us to be sure he stays the kind, upbeat person he is." Smirking widely, she adds, "Even if 'Dumbass' doesn't like it."

"On that, I agree. Oh, subject change. You looking forward to the cross sync today?"

"You better believe it. Shinji and Wondergirl's Units should be interesting." Her smile fading slightly, she murmurs, "But I can't help but wonder if Shinji's probes can find anything in Unit-02 when they found his Mama in Unit-01."

"If there's anything there, Berto will find it. If he does find anything though, don't speak at all. Just listen through the bridge from Shinji's probes to your comm. that Berto figured up."

"Right." Getting up from her bed, Asuka stretches before smiling widely. "I don't know about you, Misato, but I think it's going to be a great day today!" Grinning now, she asks, "Who knows? I might even put my crush on Shinji to rest today!"

"You'll never fully put a crush to rest, Asuka." At Misato's words, Asuka listens intently. "No matter how much time goes by, you'll always wonder 'Why couldn't I have met him first?'. That will follow you for all time, yet you'll always hope you'll finally stop asking yourself. Never stop hoping, Asuka."

"Will it ever stop hurting like it does me right now?"

"Not fully, but you'll eventually feel it being like a warm coat being draped over your shoulders. Knowing full well that you at least have kind friends that'll stick by you. Do you get my meaning, Asuka?"

"I do, Misato." Misato gives Asuka a nod before exiting her room. Allowing the redhead to dress in private. Putting her right hand between her breasts, she smiles softly before murmuring.

"Shinji and Rits are better for each other. She'll always love him as a spouse while my affection for him is of a friend." Looking at herself in the mirror, she sees her smile go wider. "That's right. Let's go, Asuka."

(Dining area; ten minutes later)

As they eat, Shinji looks over at Misato and Asuka before looking over at Rits. The three femmes are sharing a soft smile, causing Shinji to mildly gulp before clearing his throat.

"So, Asuka, you looking forward to seeing about syncing with Units-00 and 01 today?"

"I am. Though I can't help but worry I won't be able to sync with either of them. I mean, the only Unit I've ever synced with is Unit-02. So they'll be an interesting change of venue. How do you feel?"

"Well, if it comes down to it, if any of us are incapacitated, at least we know we can cross-sync if we have to." Misato gives a grave nod before speaking.

"That may be true, Shinji. But if the Dummy Plug System works like Ritsu expects, though, the three of you might not have to fight anymore. You can all live normal lives like you're meant to." Tears falling from her brown eyes, Misato murmurs, "You all may have gotten stronger, but you'd been put through so much."

"I understand, Misato." Shinji's voice gets Misato to look toward him before he goes on. An unsure tone in his voice. "However, I'm not exactly sure I'm fond of the idea of an autonomous system guiding the Evangelions' actions. I mean, that's new unproven ground we're talking about here!"

"I know. But Ritsu designed it and expects to have a prototype before too much longer." Scowling lightly, she adds, "I'm not too fond of the idea either, but if it allows you to stay safe…"

"Then it'd be worth it. Right." Shinji sighs as Rits takes his hand into hers. Getting him to smile softly. "I guess we'll see about how it does before judgment is passed on it, then. But, if there's any sign a Pilot's life is in danger, there at least should be an override of sorts to allow for a rescue operation."

"What kind of sign?" Misato's question only gets an unsure shrug from Shinji, getting her to frown slightly. "That's not like you, Shinji."

"Misato's right. You usually have an answer of some kind." Asuka's voice has worry within as she asks, "What gives?"

"No idea. But I can't help feeling something's going to happen." Snorting, Shinji remarks, "For all I know, it's probably just a hunch."

"That may be true, but a hunch did save your life when the 5th Angel arrived." Misato's words get Asuka to pick up where the woman leaves off.

"Your brainpower and uncommon valor saved my life in the volcano during the failed operation to capture the 8th Angel." Rits nods before speaking up.

"And let's not forget your humanity and compassion when the 4th Angel attacked. You could have fallen back as Misato and 'Dumbass' had instructed, but you elected to stand your ground and attacked. Even though 'Dumbass' was more than willing to see innocent people die. I bet Misato even wanted to pin a medal on you a time or two." Misato snorts at that before retorting.

"Try every single time you faced off against an Angel. All three of you deserve medals for your valor as far as I'm concerned. If 'Dumbass' wasn't in charge of NERV, but Fuyutsuki was, you can bet your asses you'd all be on that podium to be decorated." Shinji's blushing furiously while Asuka grins.

"So don't be so down on yourself, Shinji." Rits' voice brings a grin to his face as she adds, "Because if you get decorated, I'm going to be there so I can cheer my man on. If not pin that medal on you myself."

"I think we can arrange something for you on that, if it's Fuyutsuki, that is. 'Dumbass', however…"

"Is another story altogether." Rits can't help but snarl out, "I hope he buys the farm in the next Angel attack! If not the next few hours!"

"Yeah, it'd be nice." Asuka's sighed reply is shared by the others before she checks her watch and her eyes go wide. "Oh shiesse! We'd better go, guys! We're losing minutes!" Bolting up from the table, all four of them run down the staircase down to the parking garage.

"To the 'Shinji-mobile'! It'll be safer than the 'Misato-mobile' is!"

"Asuka! I'm not that bad!"

"Then let's have a little race. Shinji's car against your blue-bullet of damnation." Pointing toward Rits and herself, she adds, "Takamiya with you and me with Shinji. Besides, I don't think she'd ever ridden with you before. So it'll be like a rite of passage of sorts."

"I'm game for it." Locking Shinji's lips to hers, Rits grins and says, "See you at NERV, baby."

"You too, honey." With that, they get into the cars, with Shinji glancing at Asuka. "Just what exactly are you doing anyway, Asuka?"

"If you're going to marry that girl, she'll have to pass the 'Misato' test. A test devised by myself just now. Besides, this'll give us a chance to talk without your 'wife' overhearing." At a silent signal, the race starts.

"As in the cross-sync experiment?"

"Yeah." Shaking lightly, she asks, "Just what is it like for you to have all those probes inside you?"

"I'll put it to you like this. Even if I hadn't had the probes, I'd still be me. Just not as capable as I am with them. Why do you ask?"

"Berto told me your Mama made contact with you through the probes. Misato even told me he'd…"

"Figured out a way for your Mother to hear you. If she's indeed in there."

"I'm sure she is. I mean, a person's sanity or soul doesn't just up and leave their body without anywhere to go." Tears falling from her eyes, she murmurs, "I know I haven't the right…"

"You've every right to know for certain, Asuka. Our Mothers, Rits' birth Mother included, were all victims. Of NERV and the lowlife that murdered her birth parents."

(Misato-mobile; same time)

As they race along Tokyo-3's streets, Rits can't help but feel exhilarated until she sees a sharp turn coming up. Gulping lightly, she braces herself as best she can as Misato drifts along the turn. Not having decelerated once. As the Renault comes out of the drift, Rits can't help but whoop out.

"Now this is driving!"

"Glad to hear that." Grinning wryly, Misato asks, "So what do you think so far of the 'Katsuragi Express', Rits?"

"It's certainly expedient and… GWAK!" Misato barely misses a Yebisu truck, causing Rits' heart to nearly skip a beat. 'Talk about your close shaves! I don't think I had such a close shave as "Dragonette" that night!'

(Shinji-mobile; same time)

"What about Wondergirl's birth Mother? I mean, I know she's got clones down there, but she's got to have a birth Mother."

"Far as I'm concerned, my Mother's the same as hers. We were both victimized by 'Dumbass' for who knows what reason." Just before Asuka can say anything else, Shinji smiles upon seeing a familiar sight. "There's my 'Mother-in-Law's van pulling up to the entrance for the Geofront. What say we go say 'hi' to her?"

"Sure." Shinji pulling up to the right side of Deidre's van and stopping, Asuka gets out and calls out to her. "Morning, Ms Takamiya!" Deidre turns at Asuka's voice before smiling widely.

"Morning, Asuka. Where's Ritsy?"

"She's riding with 'Kamikaze Katsuragi' today as a rite of passage of sorts. Ah, here comes her Renault right now. 9 o'clock." Deidre looks to her left side, revealing a face Asuka hadn't seen lately as the form steps out. "Morning, Captain Psycho!"

"Morning, Pilot Sohryu! How're you feeling today?"

"Oh, just fine and a little anxious about today."

"Why anxious?"

"Because she'll be syncing with Unit-01 today, Captain." At Misato's voice, the man turns around and sees a freshly-exited Misato scowling. "I heard about your breakdown yesterday, Captain. I hope we won't have a repeat." A slightly-shaken Rits gets to her side and smiles as Shinji goes to her. Murmuring to each other quietly, they don't notice Asuka grinning in approval.

'You are indeed worthy of becoming an Ikari, Ritsuko Takamiya. Shinji is officially yours. But you'd better take good care of him or you will answer to me!'

"Oh, no Major. I'm feeling a lot better now. I just hope that Ishiragi didn't fuck up too badly while I was out of town." Following Misato as she leads them down into the Geofront, he can clearly hear a snort of disgust.

"Strange you should happen to mention him."

"How so?" The look on her face gets him to groan. "What'd that dipshit do to Section-2?"

"It's more like what he did to himself."

(Five minutes later; Gendo's Office)

"Good morning, Captain Psycho. I understand you had a breakdown of sorts after our meeting yesterday?" Ever the diplomat, Gendo conceals his face from view. Making it hard for the cyborg before him to read him. At least so he thinks. "After all, you did comment you're on your way to kill the Third Child's future wife. I was under the impression you were joking, so I merely played along. I'm hoping you're feeling better."

"I did, Commander. I'm feeling a lot better now. No more need to worry about me having psychotic episodes, Commander." Mentally, he adds, 'If I was joking, then you have a lousy sense of humor!'

"Nonetheless, however, it is cause for concern. So, pending further evaluation, you are relieved of duty, at the same rank."

"Sir." Gendo gives a nod before finding himself 'curious'.

"How was this miracle of sorts accomplished, Captain?"

"Wish I could tell you, sir, but all I know is that Ms Takamiya had taken me, while unconscious, to a facility outside of NERV's jurisdiction."

"I see. Ms Takamiya?"

"Yes, Commander."

"On behalf of NERV, I wish to extend my gratitude to you for seeing to the health of one of our employees. Captain Psycho has proven himself an adept leader in our protection force." Said man's face can't help but go bright red at that. Catching Gendo's attention, causing Gendo to smirk.

"I do believe that's the first time I've seen you blush, Captain Psycho." He can only shrug while Deidre snickers until Gendo goes serious.

"In any case, Ms Takamiya, I wish to apologize to you in regards of your daughter being in a relationship with the Third Child. I thought it would impede his will to fight, but I see I was wrong. Her presence has greatly aided Pilot Ikari in deciding that all life must be held sacred."

"It's not me you should apologize to, Commander, but Ritsuko. She's the one that had been greatly offended by you in regards to her relationship with Shinji."

"I understand that. In fact, upon learning of their relationship, I sought to encourage Pilot Ikari to sever the relationship. If only to spare her the heartache of losing a loved one in this war. But I never expected their bond to be so strong."

"That's what love is all about, Commander. It can overcome all obstacles whether it be distance or fear of death."

"So it would seem, Ms Takamiya. Captain Psycho?"

"Sir."

"In my haste during your crisis, I'd appointed Lieutenant Ishiragi to act as interim Captain until your return to duty. During his celebration, he was so heavily intoxicated, he'd inadvertently shot himself in the head while playing a 'game' I'm sure you're familiar with." The cyborg can't help but groan and palm his face with his human hand.

"That idiot! I told them, my first day as Captain, that 'Russian Roulette' is not a game, but another way of committing suicide!" Shaking his head, he asks, "Who's taken over for the time being, sir?"

"Agent Hisnokasu."

"Ah. He's one of our best men, sir. If it'd be alright, I'd like to appoint him as my Second-in-Command, sir."

"I see no harm in appointing an adjunct." Gendo nods his approval and adds, "I expect you'll tell Agent Hisnokasu upon leaving here before submitting yourself for evaluation."

"Yes sir."

"Very good, Captain Psycho. Anything of note before you're dismissed?"

"Yes sir. One other item."

"I'm listening."

"When I went 'psycho', I started having memories flashing back to me. During that time, I learned who I once was."

"Oh? Who were you?"

"Gunnery Sergeant Peter Sychola, USMC, sir!"

"Very well then, Captain Sychola. Your next pay slip will reflect your true name."

"Yes sir."

"Dismissed, Captain." Peter salutes Gendo and turns around to exit. Deidre's about to exit too when she hears Gendo speak again. "Ms Takamiya, a moment of your time, if you please."

"But of course." Giving Peter a nod, she gets one right back before hearing the door close. Once they're alone, Gendo speaks.

"I'm under the impression you do not like me very much, Ms Takamiya."

"Could you really blame me, Commander? You abandoned Shinji at an early age after his own Mother vanished. Only to call him back to fight in a war he had no idea he was to fight in until after he got back here."

"No, I suppose I cannot, Ms Takamiya. Mr. McGrath and his friends have undoubtedly benefited Pilot Ikari immensely, with Pilot Ikari having been blessed with meeting your daughter. In fact, I understand she has an appointment with Dr Akagi today."

"Yes, to have the replacement BCI Dr Akagi put into her extracted so she and Shinji can start work on their family early."

"Very well, but after her appointment, I'd like to invite her to observe the cross-sync experiment the Pilots are undergoing today."

"I think she may find it interesting. I'll discuss it with her."

"But of course. Also, I'm wondering if she'll satisfy my curiosity by syncing with the Evangelions herself."

"Um, sir, not for nothing, but Ritsy was born about two weeks before Second Impact. Wouldn't she be exempt from it?"

"Under ordinary circumstances, yes. However, as I've said, it's mainly curiosity on my part." Deidre gently bites down on her lower lip before giving her reply.

"I'll ask her about it. But if she says no, that's the end of it. Deal?"

"It is a deal, Ms Takamiya." Deidre gives Gendo a nod and gets one right back, letting her know she can go now. Once she's exited and the door's closed, Gendo lets out a bated breath. He then mutters under his breath, "It's getting harder and harder to keep a straight face when I'm lying my ass off!"

Grinning slightly, and with a malicious undertone, he adds, "Although I do admit a slight curiosity whether or not the Third Child's 'future wife' can be a Pilot. Even though she was born prior to Second Impact. It should be quite fascinating should she accept."

(Outside Gendo's office; same time)

"I'd never thought 'Commander Dumbass' would be a rough copy of Dread, Peter."

"Oh yeah. Few people could lie like Dread, yet 'Dumbass' in there can definitely give him a run for his money."

"So what do we do?"

"Only thing we can do is play along and not let him know we're onto him. You might want to talk to Ritsy about the offer from 'Dumbass' in front of Shinji. See how he reacts to the thought of seeing her in a plug suit." Deidre can't help but shake her head while snickering.

"You're a mess, 'Gunny'. That's for sure."

"Damn proud of it too."

After stopping off at the Section-2 barracks, Sychola tells Agent Hisnokasu that upon returning to duty, he'll be appointing Hisnokasu as his adjunct. At that, the man accepts and expresses his hopes that Sychola would return to duty soon. After leaving the barracks, they go right to the Medical Wing. Upon arrival, they see Rits talking with Ritsu and a man neither had seen before. But can instantly tell what he is just from the way he carries himself.

'N-Tek!' They both share a grin, feeling that the odds on the 'Humanity Team' just went up. Clearing his throat, Peter gets the attention of both Rits and Ritsu, along with the man.

"Hey, Doc. What's going on?"

"Which one?" The man's question gets Peter's eyebrows to arch upward. "I'm here to work with Dr Akagi when it comes to people with problems consistent with PTSD." Bringing up a card, he adds, "Dr Matt Hanson."

"Nice to have you with us, Doc. Does the Commander know you're here?"

"Oh yes. I'd made his acquaintance when 'Suko here showed me in." Their eyes can't help but go wide before they look at Ritsu. Echoing what Matt just said.

"'Suko?" Ritsu can only go beet red before playfully swatting Matt on his shoulder.

"It was something he called me by in High School. In fact, he was the only one I'd allowed to do that." Ritsu's smile going wide, she then asks, "Are you ready for your evaluation, Captain…"

"Sychola, please, Doc. I'm trying to leave that other name behind now."

"Very well then." Nodding that he'd gotten it figured out, she goes on. "In any case, seeing as I'm not qualified per se when it comes to cases like yours, Dr Hanson is more than ideal." Now it's Matt's turn to blush, getting Rits, Deidre and Peter to chuckle softly. Peter nods before giving his reply.

"Ready when you are, Doc." Matt gives Peter a nod and guides Peter to a nearby room that Ritsu designated as his office. Upon Matt closing the door, Peter sighs. "I know that you know what I am. I also know that you know I know what you are." Matt gives a nod before frowning slightly.

"Psycho, formerly of the 'Dread Criminal Syndicate'. Never expected to find you here at NERV, working as a protector for those protecting humanity." Peter can only shrug while chortling lightly.

"I never expected it myself, truth be told, 'N-Tek'. Yet here I am, before you."

"So I see. If you'll have a seat, we can get started."

"Works for me." Sitting down, Peter opens up with, "Just so you know, my change is indeed on the up and up."

"I see. But I hope you'll understand my skepticism, Mr. Sychola. But I can tell from what you said earlier that you meant what you said by 'leaving that other name behind you now'. Care to expand on that?"

"I'll do what I can. But I found something that you gotta get word to 'N-Tek' on. Okay?"

"I'll pass it on. So, if you will…"

"Oh, right." Grinning sheepishly, Peter goes on. "I don't really know when it happened or how, but I've been finding myself being drawn to the idea of humanity being saved. Especially from men like 'Dread' and 'Dumbass', along with others of their ilk."

"How can Dread be a factor? He died long ago." Peter's headshake can't help but get Matt to hiss out. "Are you certain?"

"Quite certain. 'Dumbass' is in cahoots with Dread and he doesn't even know it! Even more, it gets worse." Matt's eyes go wide as he shakes his head 'no' in disbelief. Peter, however, won't have it. "He confessed to me, before he tried frying my brain, that he was responsible for 'Second Impact'. Which happened sometime after your ATS was shut down."

"Mother of God. Did he say why?"

"He said that humanity was stagnating when he made a discovery. Back when he was Readson, no less."

"Readson? As in Doctor John D Readson, the Doctor that died after… holy fucking shit."

"You got that right." Peter can only smile and nod in agreement when they both hear Rits yelp out.

"HE INVITED ME TO DO WHAT? IS HE HIGH?" Both men can't help but blink before Peter scratches his head.

"Wonder what that's about."

(Five minutes ago)

Upon Matt and Peter go into Matt's 'office', Ritsu has Rits get up onto the table and put her legs into the stirrups. Unsure about the blonde's bedside manner, the woman only grins before speaking.

"Not to worry this time, Miss Takamiya. Misato told me that I'd forgotten an anesthetic when I'd implanted you with the BCI now within you. This time, an anesthetic will be used and all you'll feel is a slight pinch."

"I'd prefer not feeling a thing, but a pinch is better than the feeling of my guts being ripped apart." Ritsu can only grin sheepishly and Deidre can only give Rits a slight chuckle as Ritsu puts an air-operated injector right at Rits' opening. Upon hearing the hiss, Rits uneasily chuckles out, "That wasn't too bad, I guess." Ritsu only gives her a nod.

"It'll take effect in just about three minutes." Rits gives her a nod while Deidre gently runs her fingers through Rits' hair. Eager to distract her thoughts from the procedure, she begins.

"The Commander wishes to invite you to watch the cross-sync experiment that Shinji, Rei and Asuka are going through today. Just so you'd see what all is involved with it, I'm guessing."

"I might take him up on it. Shinji, Asuka and Rei will need all the support we can give them." Deidre nods before dropping her bombshell.

"He even invited you to take part in it." At the same time, Ritsu's carrying out the procedure as Rits gulps.

"In what am I being invited to take part in?"

"Syncing with an Evangelion."

"HE INVITED ME TO DO WHAT? IS HE HIGH?"

"I told him I'd ask you about it." Smirking widely, Deidre adds, "I really wouldn't be surprised if he was, Ritsy." Rits can only snort before thinking of the biggest questions she could think of.

"Why would he invite me to try syncing with the Evangelions? Aren't I even off consideration?"

"He said that he was curious enough to see how an individual born just weeks before…" Upon seeing understanding in Rits' eyes, she adds, "Yeah. You guessed it."

"Second Impact." Shuddering, she then blinks and says, "He seems to think that even though I was born two weeks before Second Impact, it's just enough for me to be considered?"

"It would seem so." Ritsu's voice gets Rits and Deidre's attention as she comes back up, covered item in hand. "The BCI's out and in two months time…"

"Our baby will be in the process of forming inside my womb." Her fingers lightly grazing her belly, she can't help but smile maternally. Shrugging, she then remarks, "I guess it couldn't hurt trying to sync. I mean, what are the odds I'll even be able to sync with any of them, anyway?"

(Ten minutes later; EVA sync test lab)

"Ex-squeeze me? Wanna run that by me again?" Rits can't help but lightly giggle at Shinji's queries before sighing and going serious.

"It's just to satisfy his curiosity. I mean, what're the odds I'll even be able to sync anyway?"

"Hopefully next to nil, Rits." Glancing at her form in one of Asuka's spare plug-suits, he waggles his eyebrows and adds, "But at least you look stunning in that." Rits can only giggle before Shinji sighs and nods. "Okay. But you may want to watch the cross-sync first just so you know what all's involved. Okay?"

"Okay." Giving him a soft peck on his lips, she murmurs, "Good luck in there."

"Thanks. I'm gonna need it. Unit-00's the one that tossed Rei like a salad. Then I gotta deal with 02."

Rits can't help but give him a giggle as he, Asuka and Rei exit the briefing room. Just as Gendo enters, no less. Rits can't resist the urge to let a shudder run up and down her spine, knowing full well just how Gendo views her. Giving him a curt nod, she gets one right back as he moves to stand at her side. They both look out the window, allowing Rits to see a blue, purple and red Evangelion. Upon seeing Shinji head toward the blue Evangelion, Rits can't help but comment.

"Blue may not fit Shinji's car well, but at least it looks good on that one."

"Yes, although Unit-00's color was orange until after the defeat of the 5th Angel." Gendo looks down toward Rits before adding, "Pilots Ikari and Ayanami successfully destroyed it, even though it took two shots to do it. The hunch Pilot Ikari had regarding it the first time around saved NERV significant dollars in regards to repairs."

"Yeah, well that's Shinji for you." Rits then stops speaking in time to hear communications between the sync lab and the Evangelions.

"Okay, you three, you're all in each others' EVA Units." Ritsu's voice is collected as she asks, "Any of you have anything to comment on before we commence?"

"It's strange, being inside Shinji's Unit-01 instead of my Unit-02."

"I, too, feel odd inside Unit-02 instead of Unit-00." A minute later, Shinji's voice pipes in.

"It smells like Rei in here."

"You smell Wondergirl in there? Pervert! I bet Takamiya's not happy with you on that."

"Is my smell unpleasant, Ikari?"

"Get your mind out of the gutter, Asuka. Rei, no." Sighing, Shinji says, "I guess the longer a Pilot's in their plug, the more likely a trace of them will remain behind. Can any of you feel anything?"

"Matter of fact, yeah. I feel frickin' annoyed now!" Asuka's gripe gets an eye-roll from Rits, Ritsu and Misato before Asuka asks, "Can we please go ahead and get this over with?"

"Initiating nerve connections now."

(Entry plugs 00, 01 and 02; same time)

As Shinji, Asuka and Rei feel the plugs activating, they all feel something different. Shinji feels a seemingly cold presence recognizing him before beginning an 'analysis' of sorts on him. Asuka feels a warm presence cupping her cheeks. Rei can subconsciously hear soft humming. They're all wondering the same thing.

'What is happening here?'

(Sync test lab; same time)

At her station, Maya watches the monitor intently as the sync ratios progress for each Unit.

"Nearing borderline on Pilot Sohryu with Unit-01. Three, two, one. Mark!" A minute later, Maya muses, "Fascinating."

"Don't go 'Spock' on us, Maya! What am I showing in regards to Shinji's Unit?"

"You're showing 65% sync even though you'd never been inside Unit-01 before."

"Huh, that is fascinating. How about Wondergirl?"

"She's showing a sync of 70%."

"WHAT? HOW CAN THAT BE POSSIBLE?" Asuka's shrill voice causes Maya to cringe from the feedback as she goes on. "IT'S INCOMPREHENSIBLY INSANE!"

"I'm sorry, Pilot Sohryu, but the graph's not lying. Pilot Ayanami's sync with Unit-02 is at 70%."

(Inside Unit-01's plug; same time)

Sighing as she 'exhales' into the LCL, Asuka nods before winking off the vid-con.

'It's all coming together. In some weird-assed way.' Upon feeling the sensation of fingers going through her hair before arms encircling her in a hug, Asuka can't help but smile softly.

'I may not have probes like Shinji, but I can feel a presence… but with his probes, he can establish contact of sorts! I wonder how he's doing!' Turning the vid-con back on, her jaw can't help but drop at what she's seeing.

(Two minutes ago; Unit-00's plug)

Shinji sits patiently in the plug as he 'goes turbo'. Just before the EVA goes nuts.

"Whoa, Nellie!" Upon feeling like he's inside a bucking bronco, he grins and yells out, "Hoo, boy! This is feeling like a rodeo, Hoss! Hee-haw!"

As the EVA bashes its fist against the glass, he sees Rits standing there and snarls out, angrily.

"You're not touching my wife!" Exuding his influence through the probes, he then grits out, "I knew I should've brought my Stetson!" Shaking his head, he then transmits to Berto.

'What're you getting, Berto?'

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but you gotta hear it for yourself, Shinji. I'm piping it in to you now."

"LET ME OUT OF HERE! NOW! GENDO! YOU ROTTEN RAT BASTARD! HOW MANY CHILDREN ARE YOU GOING TO VICTIMIZE OR HAVE ME KILL?" The voice is feminine and filled with intense hatred, getting Shinji to arch an eyebrow as it goes on. "YOU SENT LITTLE REI TO TELL ME WHAT YOU'D SAID ABOUT ME! HOW COULD YOU? SHE WAS JUST A BABY!" The voice lets out a wail of agony just before Shinji pipes in.

'Hello. I'm Shinji Ikari.'

"Shinji? Yui's baby boy? Is that really you?"

'It is. What happened?'

"THAT MONSTER THAT CALLS HIMSELF YOUR 'FATHER' SENT REI AYANAMI TO TAUNT ME. HER INNATE HONESTY CAUSED ME TO… TO KILL HER!" At another agonized wail, the voice goes on. "EVEN MORE, MY RITSUKO! MY RITSUKO GOT ENTANGLED IN THIS MESS WITH GENDO!"

'Doctor Naoko Akagi?'

"Yes." The voice is softer, with sobbing within, as it goes on. "When Unit-00 went berserk on Rei when she tried syncing with it, I sought to release her from Gendo's grasp so she can rest in peace." Somehow, Shinji can tell that Naoko's blinking as she asks, "How can I even be talking to you, though? It's impossible!"

'It's something of a long story, Doctor Akagi. But I can tell you this much. Gendo's not getting away with what he's got in mind. So, will you please work with Rei as she is now? Along with anyone else?'

"I don't doubt it's a long story. Shinji, I hope you give that bastard what for. Yes, I will." Naoko can't help but giggle as she adds, "I can tell from the last few times she'd synced with Unit-00 that she's coming out of her shell."

'Yep.' Gazing toward Unit-02, where his 'sister' is waiting anxiously, he adds, 'She sure is.' Naoko pauses briefly and sighs before speaking.

"Shinji, I'm so sorry. About everything."

'It's alright. But if anyone should be sorry, it's "Commander Dumbass".' Naoko's resultant chuckle gets a smirk from Shinji as Unit-00 slowly stops thrashing around. As the external power plug had been jettisoned while the EVA was going nuts.

"I like that. 'Commander Dumbass'. It fits him quite well. Shinji, please, protect my Ritsuko!" With that, contact is lost and Shinji cuts power just shy of the 'yellow' mark.

'Talk about your close shaves.' Sighing softly, he mentally adds, 'Don't worry, Dr Akagi. Your Ritsuko will be protected by one of ours.'

"Shinji! You alright, baby?" The sound of Rits' voice gets Shinji to grin before replying.

"I'm okay, Rits." Chuckling slightly, he adds, "This here 'bronco' can buck with the best of them! I haven't been tossed around like that in two years!" Rits can't help but giggle while Shinji can't help but notice Gendo scowling. Deciding to twist the knife deeper, he comments, "Maybe we can make an attraction of this. 'Bucking Evangelion Broncos'. It'd be a big hit."

"I'll consider it, Pilot Ikari. How're you feeling after such a harrowing experience?" Shinji's unable to resist a smirk at that query.

"Any chance I can do it again?"

Upon hearing Rits and Rei giggling, with Asuka and Misato guffawing, Shinji can't help but grin. Ritsu and Maya snickering as well, Shinji relishes the look of shock on 'Dumbass' face.

'Did you get the shot, Berto?'

"You bet I did, Shinji. I also recorded Dr Akagi's voice on there for the other Dr Akagi should she desire to hear it again."

'Good to know.' Ejecting the plug after the LCL drains, Shinji expels it from his lungs before opening the hatch. 'Next stop, Unit-02.'

"Got it. But be careful this time, Shinji. After this one, you'll have to take it easy until you can get away from there."

'No need to worry as I already have an alibi in mind.'

"Oh, right, the car's paint job. Brilliant."

Shinji gives a minute nod as he, Asuka and Rei switch places. When Asuka gets to him, he gives her a minute nod and gets one in return. Getting Rits' attention, yet she puts it out of her mind.

'He's just wishing her luck, with her accepting and returning serve.' Upon seeing Shinji give Rei a slight nod, she relaxes fully. 'Nothing to worry about.' Gulping, she then verbally muses, "Then it'll be my turn."

"Indeed. With all three Units." Gendo's voice can't help but send chills up and down Rits' spine as she watches Shinji enter Unit-02. "I must admit, however, that Pilot Ikari's previous experiences prior to here have helped him in their own way. Even if I don't know what he'd done prior to coming here. Pilot Ikari's worth further scrutiny." Rits can't help but sigh in exasperation before glaring at Gendo.

"Look, I know how you're just being the Commander and all, but why couldn't you just say Shinji's name just once before the Court Order, Rokubungi? It ain't that hard."

"I've no time for such sentimentality." Giving her an equal glare right back, he adds, "Don't expect the Court Order to last, Miss Takamiya. It will be set aside and I will resume calling Pilot Ikari my 'son'. Even if you, he or his surrogate family don't like it." Rits can't help but snort at that.

"I sometimes wonder what his Mother ever saw in you. You and Shinji are nothing alike!"

"He takes after Yui, as he has her heart." His gaze 'softening', he adds, "Had Yui not died, I'm sure she'd have liked meeting you." With that, he turns back to Unit-02, missing Rits' scowl.

'I've no doubt about that at all. But if you think being "friendly-like" is going to get you any favors, you're sorely mistaken!' Shrugging, Rits replies, "She must've been a classy lady."

"She was. Had she lived and have met your Mother, I've no doubt they'd have gotten along famously." Rits only shrugs before remarking.

"Well, since some shitbag bombed my birth Mom and Dad, I can't really say for sure. My adoptive Mother, however…" Gendo can't help but blink in confusion before interrupting her.

"They were bombed? I thought they died in Second Impact."

"Both happened to them, actually. A bomb went off, but they survived up until the wave washed over them." Wrapping her arms around her midsection, she murmurs, "All this time, I thought they'd died when the wave washed over them. It was partially true, but I will blame the bomb that was placed to kill them."

"I see." Pushing his glasses up to the bridge of his nose, he thinks, 'I must consult with Kiel on this development. If it's revealed there was another survivor that wishes to stand against us, then the "Scenario" will truly be endangered.' He then watches Rits' face as she watches Unit-02 intensely.

(Unit-02 plug)

As the connections are established, Shinji discretely 'goes turbo' and Berto starts searching until he hears a soft voice murmuring in German.

"'Where is my little girl at? Who is… Shinji? Oh, Yui, your little boy's so adorable!'" The voice titters softly, getting Shinji to grin softly before 'replying' in German.

'"Hello, Ms Sohryu."'

"'Shinji? How can we… what is this I'm sensing in you?'"

'"I wish I could tell you, ma'am. Until we have more time, though, I have to make this quick. If you'd like to speak to Asuka, Berto can pipe you through to her. But if she doesn't reply, don't worry. All she'll do is listen."'

"'Berto? Who's Berto?'" At that, Berto's voice pipes in.

"'That'd be me, Ms Sohryu. Roberto Martinez, but my friends just call me 'Berto'. And I'd be glad to consider you a friend.'"

"'Ah. Okay. For a non-German, your German's pretty good, Berto.'"

"'Thank you. Patching you through to Asuka now.'"

(Unit-00 plug)

Asuka can't help but feel relieved that she hadn't been subjected to a wild ride like Shinji had. Smirking inwardly, she can't help but shake her head in amusement.

'If anyone can "negotiate" with an EVA to not go bonkers with anyone else, it's Shinji.'

"'Asuka, my precious little girl. You've grown too fast for your own good.'"

Asuka's eyes can't help but barely avoid flying open in shock over the soft feminine voice speaking in German floating into her 'N-Tek' comm. earpiece. While thinking three things.

'It works! Mein Gott, it works! Berto, you are the man! When we meet, I'm kissing your cheek!'

"'Oh, my baby. What's happened to you? I told your idiot Father I didn't want you involved with the fight for humanity's survival.'" The voice sniffles lightly before going on.

"'I see you finally met Yui's son. But I can easily see that someone had beaten you into his heart. Plus another boy starting to worm his way in there. So listen very carefully. Do not let go if it's meant to last. Until I can see you again, my daughter. Be well.'" With that, her Mother's voice fades out and Asuka smiles softly.

'I miss you, Mama.' Closing her eyes, she mentally adds, 'Thank you, Shinji.'

(Unit-01 plug)

As she sits in the seat, Rei can't help but feel a warm feeling washing over her. Along with the sensation of arms clasping over her in a protective manner. As she examines the feelings, she makes a mental note to ask Shinji if he feels anything in his Unit anytime he's in there. Along with a reminder to consult with Dr Akagi during her post-test examination regarding her 'implant'.

(Unit-02 plug)

Shinji mentally grins as he ceases 'going turbo' and mentally nods that he was still in the 'yellow' in regards to his probes. He then looks up toward Rits and grins.

"You sure about this, Rits?"

"You better believe I am, Shin." Shrugging, Rits asks, "Like I asked earlier, what are the odds I'll be able to sync at all?"

"Yeah. You're probably right. I just can't help but worry about you. You know?"

"You sweetheart." Rits blows him a kiss just as the plug drains the LCL before ejecting.

(Five minutes later; Unit-00 plug)

Rits can't help but feel tentative at the feeling of being inside the plug that had violently thrashed with her beloved in there. Yet not do the same with Asuka. Gulping lightly, ignoring the nauseous feeling associated from the gulp, she 'clears' her throat.

"I'm ready here."

"Acknowledged. Be ready for some mild discomfort."

"Compared to the extraction, I think I can stand some mild discomfort, Dr Akagi." Ritsu doesn't say anything else, yet Rits can see the LCL fading until she sees the area all around her. "Boy, talk about your 'out of body' experiences."

"It's understandable as you weren't wearing the A-10 clips in your hair the time of the 6th Angel, Rits." Shinji's voice brings an amused smirk to Rits' face as he goes on. "Other than feeling like you're outside your body, as it were, how do you rate it?" At that, Rits can't help but snort in amusement before speaking.

"Quite frankly, I wouldn't choose being an EVA Pilot over being your 'wife' any day of the week, Shin." Grinning, she then says, "Thinking of, I'm thinking of going with a white kimono for the wedding. Unless, of course, you wanna try something new for the wedding."

"White kimono sounds good, but I like the latter idea better." Rits gives a smirk before Shinji adds, "In any case, Rits, you're scoring a 25% sync. That's barely operational and not really a bad thing in my book."

"Same here, Shin. I can't see how you stand to breathe this sludge in anyway. Much like that time when you, me and Asuka were in Unit-02 together."

"I know what you mean. But once this war's done, we're so outta here."

"I'm so with you on that. Draining the plug now." As the plug drains, Rits expels the LCL from her lungs and groans out. "One down, two to go."

(Unit-01 entry plug; five minutes later)

"I said it once and I'll gladly say it as many times as needed. I really don't see how you, Asuka and Rei breathe this stuff in, Shin!" Rits shifts uncomfortably as she adds, "I'm really looking forward to that shower once we get these sync tests out of the way."

"It's okay, Rits. If you like, I can help you wash it off of you."

"Hmm, I love the sound of that, Shin. But remember…"

"I know, honey. No practicing making babies for two months." A minute later, Shinji adds, "Rits, your sync score for Unit-01 is at 55%." Rits can't help but smirk sheepishly at that.

"Maybe it was the talk of 'baby-making' between us that resulted in it."

"Maybe." With that, the LCL drains and Rits expels it from her lungs. All the while thinking one thing.

'It was just a coincidence. That's all. Shin told me some time back that happy or positive thoughts result in such scores.' Nodding, she verbally muses, "Nothing serious to go by at all."

(Unit-02 plug; five minutes later)

"Thank goodness this experiment's almost over with! Honestly, if I have to inhale LCL one more time today, I'm gonna throw somebody in here when I get back out!" Shinji, Asuka, Misato and Rei give Rits a chuckle before she adds, "I really hope I don't score as well as I did on this one, Asuka."

"Don't worry, Takamiya. What happened with Unit-01's just a fluke. What're the odds your results will be as good with 02 as they were with 01?" A minute later, Asuka can't help but groan out. "Your score's 55%, Takamiya. I really need to shut my big mouth, don't I?"

"It's not your fault, Asuka. Besides, here's the way I see it. Just because I can sync doesn't really mean I have to Pilot at all. It was only curiosity, anyway. And now that I know for sure, I'm still refusing the offer to Pilot."

"Roger that, Rits." Shinji's voice brings a smile to her face as he goes on. "I'll help you with your shower." As the LCL drains out, Rits expels it from her lungs once more before sighing in relief.

"Sounds heavenly, Shin. Be with you in a few." With that, the plug ejects and Rits exits once more. Glad she doesn't have to go into any entry plug ever again.

(Gendo's office; ten minutes later)

"So the girl scored 55% on both Units-01 and 02, Akagi?"

"Correct, sir."

"How is this possible, though? She was born two weeks before Second Impact. Or so she stated, anyway."

"She was. I checked for certification of her birth. She was indeed born two weeks before Second Impact to Hoshio and Yuriko Takusona."

"Then how was she able to sync?"

"I can only guess, but I'd say she was shielded in some way that kept her from being marked as 'prohibited' when it comes to Piloting Evangelion."

"Is that so?" Gendo muses on it before asking, "She absolutely, steadfastly refuses to become a Pilot?"

"Yes, Commander." Gendo's eyes take on a look of cunning before it fades.

"Very well, then. You're dismissed, Akagi."

"Yes, sir." With that, she exits the office and closes the door. Unable to resist a cold chill running up and down her spine. 'I hope an Agent of the bunch that grabbed me contacts me soon! I've got a bad feeling about all that!'

Back in his office, Gendo sneers coldly before making his plot in his mind.

'Yes, Ritsuko Takamiya. You and Yui will get along so well while trapped inside Unit-01! Making the Third Child ideal for the "Scenario" in one blow!' Grimacing, he mentally asks, 'But how do I do it, though?'

(Medical Wing; five minutes later)

As Ritsu enters the room for examinations, she sees a certain blue-haired girl. Unable to resist a slight grimace, she shakes it off before clearing her throat.

"It's good to see you're on time for your appointment, Pilot Ayanami."

"Yes, ma'am." Ritsu can't help but roll her eyes just before Rei asks, "Might I ask you a favor, Dr Akagi?" Her eyebrows arching upward, Ritsu looks right at Rei and sees the pale girl blushing furiously.

"Sure Ayanami. What is it?"

"When the time comes, I wish for the S-2 to not be implanted." At Ritsu's dropped jaw, Rei goes on. "I wish to be a full woman. Able to bear children of myself and Richard when our time comes." A stunned Ritsu can only nod, getting a big smile from Rei in the process.