Welcome back! It's time for the Jet Alone project! Besides that, this chapter is long, about 10,000 words, so I'm happy that I could get a long and complete chapter out for you. I'd say about 2/3s of this chapter is Episode 7, and the remaining 1/3 is new content to bridge gaps between areas. Anyway, I hope you enjoy the shenanigans of Misato and Ritsuko!
August 19th, 2015
The loud engine of the NERV chopper arriving in what was once Central Tokyo, now simply known as the Abandoned Zone, No. 28. Inside, Misato sat watching out the window, Ritsuko sitting close by, both watched as the once lavish landscape spread out in front of them, now dead and decaying due to a nuclear strike years before, after the Second Impact. Misato wrapped her hand around her cross pendant, watching in silence.
"Looking at it now, with nothing around for miles, dead scraps everywhere. It's hard to believe that this place was once the capital of Japan, the flourishing Tokyo."
"We're here." Ritsuko briefly commented, causing Misato to turn towards another window. Odd against the rest of the area around it, a decently sized pure white building stood in the middle of the landscape. A smaller, more compact building nearby, more circular in shape. Misato frowned as she watched the area.
"Why, of all places, did they decide to do this here? Is the SSDF even involved in this project?"
"The Strategic Self Defence Force?" Ritsuko replied, not even looking over at Misato bored in her chair, her attention fully on the computer sitting on her lap in front of her, lighting up her face. "No, they aren't, they're not allowed to interfere in this matter."
"I see." Misato replied, her head resting on her hands. "That explains how they're able to do whatever they like. With a lurch, the chopper began to descend towards the ground, making Misato lose her balance slightly as a result. The chopper headed towards the smaller white building, where an assortment of other choppers, of which representatives from various places where brought, laid out below them, of various colours, the things looked like a piece of artwork a four-year-old would make when looking at it from a distance.
As the chopper landed, Misato and Ritsuko stepped out onto the pavement. Heading immediately towards the nearest entrance, Misato looked extremely bored, while Ritsuko looked calm and patient. Stepping into the nearest lift, they descended towards the floor where the demonstration would be taking place.
Stepping out, they were greeted by a large white and red sign, next to a large door leading into a nice seating area. Unique in that the area also consisted of the Central Control Area for this demonstration, of which Misato had no idea about, only being told to be here. The sign told them that this was the place, reading: 'Celebrating JA Completion. Announcement Commemoration.' Misato and Ritsuko entered quietly, after showing their NERV ID's to the men out front, sporting business suits, and sat down at their designated table.
There was a lot of talk going on around them, Misato continued to look bored, while Ritsuko was staring at one man in particular, a man wearing a lovely blue business suit today, Shiro Tokita was prepared to make his announcement.
The hall quietened considerably once Shiro walked towards the stand and took it. He pulled out his note cards from his breast pocket, and proceeded to speak.
"Hello everyone. I'd like to thank you all for taking some time out of your extremely busy schedules today to attend this demonstration of a new machine that we, the Japan Heavy Chemical Industries are extremely proud off. In a few minutes, we will be observing the official demonstration from this very room, but before we get to that, we'll be taking some time here to answer a few of your questions that I'm sure many of you have."
"Yes!" Ritsuko called out, putting up her hand in a signal of respect.
"Ah, Dr. Ritsuko Akagi, famous for your work with NERV. It is an honour to have you here today."
"Thank you." Ritsuko replied sternly, standing to attention. "May I ask a question?"
"Of course, you can, Ritsuko! May I call you Ritsuko?"
"Dr. Akagi is fine. You've said before, during the briefing, that the unit is equipped with a nuclear reactor, correct?"
"That is correct! This reactor is one of the units most distinguished features. The nuclear reactor will guarantee 150 days' worth of continuous operating power."
"I see. But, would you have considered the potential safety precautions constituting the use of a nuclear reactor, especially in a unit that is designed to be used for hand-to-hand combat?"
Shiro smirked as he took a moment to reply. "We believe that the benefits far outweigh the risks. As you would know, 150 days is far better than merely five minutes." Shiro stared directly at Ritsuko, the smirk still on his face.
"But," Ritsuko continued, obviously not going to back down just yet. "If an emergency were to occur, and something happened to the remote-control system, what would happen then?"
"You have to understand, Dr. Akagi. This system is much more humane than a system that causes great mental stress, and causes mental instability on a pilot."
"Cut it out." Misato muttered to herself, flipping a chopstick around in her mouth, finding something to ease her boredom. "You're acting like a child Ritsuko."
Ritsuko didn't hear Misato, and continued to ask Shiro many questions. "There's also the issue of Manual Control."
"I would think, Dr. Akagi, that this unit is much safer than a most dangerous weapon, that has been known to go out of control and run wild in the middle of the city." Shiro pulled out a large document at his comment, the large red words TOP SECRET written on the front. The screen behind him showed some footage of Unit-01 going berserk against Sachiel a month before. "I'm sure most here will agree, that a weapon that cannot be controlled is completely insane! Like a hysterical woman! Completely unmanageable! I'm sure you will agree, Dr. Akagi."
Ritsuko stared back at Shiro, fury written across her face. As the people, around her laughed at the jokes that Shiro was making. They weren't funny, they were extremely sexist. How dare he make jokes at her expense! She glared as she spoke again. "Our technology and the pilots combined are able to control the Eva's."
"You're not saying that Science and the human will tame that beast? Aren't you a scientist Dr. Akagi? Are you being serious here?"
"Yes, of course I'm serious!" Ritsuko replied, offended that this man would think she's being anything less than serious.
"And, because NERV depends of the use of the fragile human heart to power the Evangelions, the organisation that is trying to protect us, is also putting us in danger due to the frequent loss of control, as you've just seen. That is the reason why the UN had to approve that colossal supplementary budget. Because of this, over 20,000 people are starving in several countries, and we must take into account that our entire population was halved when Second Impact occurred. Regardless of it being seen as a critical incident, the causes of said incident are still unknown! I wish that you would at least fulfil that much of your responsibilities, Dr. Akagi! I envy you, I really do. NERV is protected by a large, super-legal act that allows you to avoid the responsibility you should have."
"It doesn't matter what you say. Not to me. The fact of the matter, is that NERV is the only organisation in the world that has the weapons that can defeat the enemy."
"You're talking about the A.T. Field, aren't you? That is simply a matter of time and research." The laughs from the other representatives started to laugh again, rounds of wine continuing to go around. "NERV's ability to stay above the law and do what they want will not last forever."
Misato continued to look bored, as Ritsuko sat down, defeat etched on her face. As the conference continued, Misato and Ritsuko decided to head out, heading towards their own private room. Opening the door that said NERV party, the two women quickly entered the small room. With a quick switch, Misato started to kick and punch the lockers nearby, letting her feelings on the matter out immediately.
"That fucking idiot! Who do those fat cats think we are!? This is just a pay check for them, being able to get out of the profit loop! I am so pissed off! I want to take that smug face of his and shove it up his own ass! How dare he! And then, I'll stuff that wannabe's face into this locker, and then kick the fuck out of it! Damn it! Damn it! Damn it!" Misato continued to kick the locker, denting the metal in the process, anger pouring out of her system.
"Cut it out!" Ritsuko's stern voice cut through the air. "You're acting completely childish, Misato!" Ristuko herself was having her own revenge, having taken that booklet for the project, detailing its various features and abilities, and was busy burning it to ashes with her lighter. "The man is just a show off. I've seen them before. They beg for praise. He's petty, small, not worthy of attention."
"I get that Ritsuko!" Misato replied, still standing before the locker. "But how did that smug fuck know about the A.T. Field!?"
"What I'm more concerned about is how something kept incredibly classified got leaked to the world."
"Intelligence must be on a good fucking holiday."
"Where's Misato, Shinji?" Kensuke asked as their small group sat together during the break. Shinji smiled slightly, knowing he couldn't give a proper answer.
"She's out somewhere important for NERV. I can't say more than that." Shinji replied, knowing that the military geek would be annoyed at this answer, but that was the best he could do. Shinji himself didn't know exactly what Misato was currently attending, and whether it would be fine or not. "NERV keeps a lot of things under wrap, Kensuke. Us pilots barely know anything."
"Ikari is correct." Rei stated, staring at her lap.
"Are you okay, Rei?" Hikari asked, worry for the other girl coming through, her mother-like instincts kicking in due to her home life.
"I'm fine." Rei replied simply, silently eating her bento. "Don't worry about it."
"Okay, if you say so, Rei." Hikari replied, glancing over at Shinji. Shinji shrugged, despite knowing Rei the best of everyone there, he still didn't really know her that well. Maybe that was something that needed to be changed at a later date. He didn't know why, but he felt like he knew Rei for some reason. He couldn't quite place it though.
As the group headed back towards their class for the rest of the day, everyone's thoughts were at different places. Shinji's thoughts were on Rei, wondering just who she was, and why his father had a close relationship with her. Rei's thoughts were once again on friends, and how helpful they were. She felt, wanted, something that she hadn't felt in her life. It was unknown to her. Toji and Kensuke's thoughts were firmly on Misato, and what they would've liked to do with her. Hikari's thoughts were on both Toji, and Rei, love and affection for Toji, and motherly concern for Rei.
As the group sat down for class, the teacher once again entered the room, greeted them all, then started to drone about Second Impact. The collective groan that went through the classroom at this was the same as it was any other day. The collective started to either sleep, or talk to each other on the laptops.
Shinji glanced down as a message notification came through, clicking it, the text came up.
Toji: This guy is so boring! How is he still doing this?
Kensuke: I don't know Toji, but it doesn't change, every single day. Was your last school ever like this, Shinji?
Shinji: No, I actually learnt stuff there, I dealt more with hate from everyone.
Rei: Why were you hated, Ikari?
Shinji: It's not a pretty story, but it was because of my father.
Kensuke: Your father?
Shinji: Yeah, I'd gained a reputation as the kid who had been abandoned by his father, which in turn produced some interesting and false stories about why exactly my father abandoned me.
Toji: Do you know why?
Shinji: Not really. I know that I hate him, but that's about it.
Rei: Why do you hate Commander Ikari?
Shinji: Because he left me behind, right after my mother died! Then proceeded to pretend I didn't exist! I was only a tool to him! Only waiting to call me until I was needed! Why do you think I'm even here!
Toji: Sorry, Shin-man, I didn't know he was that bad.
Shinji: Why do you think I live with Misato?
Kensuke: Fair enough. Although, you saying your mother is dead is interesting.
Shinji: Why's that?
Toji: Because everyone in this class has no mother, Shinji. Not even one.
Shinji: Rei?
Rei: Yes?
Shinji: Do you know your mother?
Rei: I never had a mother.
Toji: Same with Hikari, that's why she does all the cooking and chores at her home.
Kensuke: How do you know this?
Toji: No reason!
Shinji: That was quick.
Kensuke: Very quick.
Shinji: Too quick.
Toji: Shut up! I swear I will get you two back one day!
Shinji: You're the one that has a crush!
Toji: Shut up!
Kensuke: Toji and Hikari, sitting in a tree! K-I-S-S-I-N-G!
Hikari: Kensuke if you don't shut up right now, I'll put you on cleaning duty after school today!
Kensuke: But, Hikari!
Hikari: Zip it! And be quiet! At least some people are trying to pay attention here!
Shinji: Sorry, Hikari.
Toji: Say, do you guys want to hang out after school?
Shinji: Where?
Toji: There's a new karaoke bar in the city, maybe we could check it out.
Shinji: Sounds good.
Rei: Karaoke?
Shinji: Basically, you sing along to an instrumental of a song, and the lyrics appear so you know exactly what to sing.
Rei: Okay. It sounds… fun.
Toji: Great! So that's everyone.
Hikari: Don't assume anything, Toji.
Toji: Right, sorry. Hikari, are you coming?
Hikari: Yes, of course. Now zip it!
Minutes later, Misato and Ritsuko returned to the hall as if nothing had happened. The large curtains lining the back of the hall had now been opened, showcasing the large white building that had been seen from the chopper. The white casing was now opening, revealing the unit inside. The unit had a colour scheme very similar to Unit-00, being largely white, with orange highlights all around it. As the building completely opened, the machine stood to attention.
- NGE: S2 Works – Disc 3, Track 4 – E-2 (Without Brass) –
"Attention everyone, we are now ready to begin the long-awaited activation test of the Jet Alone Unit."
"Don't worry about anything folks, we have everything completely under control."
"Please, make yourselves comfortable, and watch through the giant window in front of you for this magnificent event." Shiro smiled as many people stood up and headed to the window, binoculars in their hands, ready for viewing. He smirked as Misato and Ritsuko stood off to the side, leaning against the wall.
"The Jet Alone is ready for activation, Mr. Tokita."
"Excellent. Begin the test."
"Discharging power cords."
"Pressure levels nominal."
"Circulation of coolant systems is normal."
"Release the control rods!' The Jet Alone began to extend six long beams out of its back towards the sky, giving the robot a unique look, with six beams sitting out behind its head.
"Reactor has exceeded threshold levels."
"Output is nominal." The eyes of Jet Alone lit up in a flurry of blue lights from its black off setting, before settling into a nice white, signifying that Jet Alone was now ready for activation. Shiro Tokita watched, a smile on his face as his creation stood at the ready.
"Begin the walk cycle!" He commanded, his eyes staying entirely on the Jet Alone.
"Walking. Forward ahead, slow, forward right leg."
"Roger. Walk, forward, slow ahead." On the system in front of Shiro, a light activated, lighting up one of the options on the system. Activating, the Jet Alone took its first step, it's giant right foot crashing to the ground, but completely fine. The Jet Alone stood still, after taking its first step.
"Balance is nominal. Power core status is nominal."
"Roger. Now, move forward, left leg. Keep her steady." The light flickered again, another option lighting up on the system. Shiro, proud of his achievements, watched with a small smile, happy that everything was going to plan. As this was happening, the Jet Alone began to make consistent movements. It started slow, with the left and right legs moving slowly, one at a time. Eventually, the technicians got used to moving the Jet Alone, and began to move the Unit at a steadier pace. Slowly speeding up till the Unit was walking like any other human.
"Wow! They're incredibly lucky that this thing actually walks!" Misato said as she watched with her own set of binoculars. "I guess they have something to be proud of after all." She said mockingly, hearing Ritsuko laugh silently beside her. While Ritsuko did laugh at her friends' comment, Ritsuko was staring hard at the technicians and Shiro at the back of the room, letting no emotions show.
Shiro was startled by a loud beep coming from a console near him, he glanced over slightly, no worry on his face. "What's wrong?" He asked, his eyes staring at the monitor.
"Something odd is happening." The man at the console replied, staring ahead.
"What do you mean?" Shiro asked, annoyance starting to form.
"The pressure inside the nuclear reactor is increasing. We don't have any idea how this is happening though."
"In addition," The man sitting at the other side of Shiro noted. "The primary coolant system inside the Jet Alone Unit is also increasing in temperature at an alarming rate!" Shiro stepped forward, no worry on his face.
"Release the open valve. Insert the neutron-deceleration fluid into the Jet Alone. We should be able to stop this."
"No effect, Mr. Tokita! The pump output in the Unit isn't increasing!" As the man said this, the systems started to go haywire, more problems arising in a very short amount of time. As this happened, Jet Alone continued to walk towards them, not slowing, showing no signs of stopping. Shiro stared out the window, his smug smile and arrogant demeanour gone. Replaced with massive worry for himself and his project.
"I've had enough of this! Shut off all power! Send the Jet Alone Unit into an emergency stop!"
"Abort transmission signal confirmed!"
"Jet Alone is not accepting the transmission! The radio circuitry has been blocked by an unknown means!" Shiro stared in horror as Jet Alone continued to step forward, he stared ahead as the words he didn't want to hear were said. "The Jet Alone Unit is out of control!"
"This can't be happening! I had everything right! Everything planned out! Why is this happening now! I will not be…" Shiro was cut off by the utter commotion happening below, shouts and cries started to go around as it became apparent that the Jet Alone was not going to stop moving towards them. This became very apparent when the foot of Jet Alone smashed through the roof of the building, sending debris everywhere, despite this, the Jet Alone destroyed the roof in a couple more steps, before heading onwards, directly towards the nearest destination.
Misato glanced out through the foot shaped hole in the roof. It had become extremely apparent that something had gone horribly wrong. She coughed slightly as she steadied herself, muttering to herself the entire time. "This robot is an arrogant as the man who built the blasted thing."
The sirens blared around them, WARNING written perfectly across as this became the main subject of conversation for anyone who had not been badly injured in the attack by the Unit they had come to view as a demonstration.
- End –
"The compression valve is operating irregularly!"
"The control rods aren't working!" Both men at the stations were starting to freak out, as the constant DANGER sign kept appearing at their workstations.
"At this rate, the possibility of a complete meltdown occurring is imminent!"
Shiro stood in shock, unable to comprehend what had just occurred. "I don't believe it. This was impossible! Jet Alone's on board programming was specifically made to handle all possible contingencies. This kind of thing simply could not happen!"
Misato stood right in front of him. A glare sitting snugly on her face. Shiro stared at her, indifference coming across in his mannerisms. "Yet, you'll find that we now face a possible complete meltdown of a nuclear reactor! We cannot afford to have this happen again, not after something of a similar magnitude happened to Old Tokyo years ago."
"To only thing we can do now, Ms. Katsuragi, is to wait for the Jet Alone to stop moving."
"And, please tell me. What is the exact estimated probability for the blasted thing to actually stop and stay still!"
"0.00002% Major! It would be a miracle if such a thing were to happen! An Act of God!"
"Acts of Men can make a much more determined effort than simply waiting for an Act of God to occur!" Misato replied, her commanding tone already coming across in her speech. "Please tell me, Mr. Tokita," She spat, letting her disdain for the man drip in her words. "There has to be another way to stop that thing!"
Shiro simply stood and watching silently, before settling on saying one thing. "We've tried every possible option, Major Katsuragi." Shiro had decided to address the woman by her title now, as he knew his command of the operation was long gone. Misato frowned, letting herself think for a moment.
"There has to be another way! And don't you dare tell me otherwise Tokita! A way to at least wipe the thing clean, wipe everything from the system! Tell me the password."
"The password to delete all the programming on the Jet Alone is Top Secret, Major. I apologise to inform you, but I do not have the authority to give you this password. I'm sorry, but I can't afford to tell you."
"Then you better get the clearance!" Misato replied, angry at the day's events. "I'm the Major here, so you will follow my orders! Understood?"
"Yes, Major. Of course, Major." Shiro replied, fear racking his features as he went towards the Phone, intent on getting the password. Misato smiled in satisfaction as the man did this.
"Yes, this is Tokita. Let me speak to Mr. Manda in Tokyo-2. Yes, the Director of Internal Affairs. I don't have time for your slowness!" Shiro argued, his grasp on the Japanese language slipping as he worried more and more.
"Well, I'll have to delegate this to Yasugi." The man on the other end of the line replied, boredom in his voice. "Call him." Shiro frowned as he put the phone down and tried again, calling a different number. Misato continued to frown at the man as he did this, watching as Shiro picked up the phone again, the sound of a club hitting a golf ball came across the speaker. Shiro quickly explained the situation to the man, fear and pleading in his voice.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Tokita. But I can't give the authorisation for such an important matter over a simple phone. Would you be able to submit a formal written response?"
"So, I just need to get Mr. Yoshizawa's permission?" Shiro asked, knowing the number of eyes that were currently on him at this very moment. "What? Yes, I already have an approval from Mr. Witz. Yes… yes, okay."
"Beaurocracy is simply an evasion of responsibility…" Misato commented as Shiro put the Phone down, turning back to Misato.
"A written order of clearance will be sent Major. I'll give you the password then. That will make this an official operation."
"You absolute idiot!" Misato cried, anger pouring out of her. "We don't have the time! We can't wait that long! While we sit here on our asses, waiting for an answer! That thing could already be on the way to exploding, and sending the world to shit once again! Once the reactor in Jet Alone redlines, it'll be too late, Tokita! I'd take a moment to think about your place here, and exactly what you have done!"
Jet Alone continued on its path. It's speed having increased since it had crushed the building moments ago. The movement was very smooth, and quick for a robot of its size.
Misato's tirade was interrupted by an announcement over the system, indicating that Jet Alone was currently on a path towards Atsugi. Misato frowned, and turned back to Shiro. "Time's running out, Tokita. It's time to make a choice." Shiro didn't reply, simply watching her. "From here on out, I'll be taking command of this operation myself. You can wait here, and you will do nothing to interrupt this." The woman quickly explained her plan to the men around her, who quickly accepted and prepared everything for the mission. Ritsuko frowned at Misato as she walked past with one of the technicians, who was leading her to a room out back.
As she walked, she noticed the various other rooms in this building, designed entirely for any kind of operation as needed. The man stopped quickly, swiping a key card, the door opened, revealing several hazmat suits. He turned, studying her for a moment, before turning back to the suits. Misato raised an eyebrow, but didn't comment as the man presented her with a hazmat suit. "Use this at all times." He said, handing it to her. "It'll be filled with radiation inside, so this will protect you."
"Thank you." Misato replied, giving him a quick smile.
"I hope you do succeed. It'll bring Shiro down a peg." He laughed slightly, before returning to the main room. Misato grinned, before dashing towards the NERV room, quickly swiping her NERV card and entering.
-Neon Genesis Evangelion OST II – Track 12 – Spending Time in Preparation –
As soon as she entered, she quickly stripped off once the door shut behind her. Placing the hazmat suit she was given on a table beside her, she pulled on a pink nightie, with the intention of having a light, easy to manoeuvre outfit underneath the large hasmat suit. As she pulled on the pink clothing, she pulled out the phone, and called up NERV HQ, the line connecting immediately. "Hey, Hyuga?" She didn't give Makoto on the other end the time to say anything immediately, taking command herself. "I've arranged to take command of an operation at this blasted activation test for the Jet Alone with the staff here and the city of Atsugi. I want you to roll out the transport with both Shinji and Unit-01 for immediate backup, equipped with F-Type equipment. Yes, Hyuga, this is an emergency!" Misato replied, annoyed as she walked towards the hazmat suit. Ritsuko stood nearby, watching silently.
"This is ridiculous Major Katsuragi. Call this off immediately. Besides, do you even have a plan on how to stop it."
"I'll override the computer." Misato replied, her purple hair whipping around as she faced Ritsuko. "By inputting the override code manually." She smiled at Ritsuko, as she usually did when she presented her insane plans, and stepped into the hazmat suit, pulling it on quickly, she grabbed the helmet and held it in her arms. Her suit was white, with a large tank at the back, presumably for oxygen. She stepped back out of the room and back towards the viewing/dining area.
As she walked through the halls, she noticed the large NERV transport carrier flying through the air, the unmistakable purple body of Evangelion Unit-01 sitting snugly underneath. She smiled as the transport flew towards the ground, preparing to touch down slowly to prevent any large damage to the large robot.
With a smirk, Misato stepped back into the viewing centre. Her suit ready to go. Shiro turned to her, taking in her appearance. "Are you sure about this?" He asked, astonished that the woman even considered putting her life on the line for his machine.
"Yes." Misato replied simply, determination laced in her voice.
"But the inside of the Jet Alone Unit will be filled with radioactivity!" Shiro commented, letting his thoughts be known. "You're insane!"
"But if I succeed, then everyone here, as well as in and around Atsugi, will be saved." Misato replied, annoyed that Shiro even considered anything different. Misato and Shiro stared at each other, not letting anything change their views. The sound of one of the technicians smashing a glass casing with a fire axe made them turn away from each other.
"The hatch to enter the inside of Jet Alone is able to be opened manually, but only when we cut out control signal." The man with the axe said, ready to push the button when required.
"You'll be able to enter the Unit through the large backpack." Another man said, pulling a wire apart. Misato made a noise of confirmation, giving the two men a slight nod.
"Hope." Misato turned back to Shiro, who couldn't look at her anymore. He was staring at the wall in disbelief. "Hope is the password. Use it to delete all the programming." Misato turned, prepared to leave. However, she stopped. She turned slightly, so her face could be seen, before she left, she uttered two words.
"Thank you."
The group of five quickly left the classroom and headed out as school ended, intent on spending a good quality amount of time away from the boring lesson they commonly had. As the group headed towards the entrance of the school, the sound of buzzing came from Shinji's jeans pocket. He frowned as he looked down at his NERV issued phone, he glanced over at Rei, who simply nodded at him. "Sorry guys, we won't be able to go to the karaoke place."
"NERV?" Toji asked, frowning.
"Yeah, something's gone wrong." Shinji simply said, as he and Rei quickly left, heading towards the nearest shuttle to NERV HQ.
The two pilots quickly swiped their NERV ID cards and entered the large pyramid. They quickly made their way through the large and confusing complex, heading straight for Central Dogma. As they arrived, they noticed that everyone was hard at work, Maya and Shigeru sat at their stations, running data. Makoto unusually, was not there. Shinji and Rei's entrance alerted the Bridge Bunnies to their presence in the large room.
"Shinji, Rei, there you are." Maya noted. "Something's happened at the place where the Major and Dr. Akagi are currently at."
"Quick question, Miss. Ibuki. What are they at exactly?"
"Well," Maya replied, turning to the large screen at the centre of the room. "Dr. Akagi and Major Katsuragi were attending a demonstration for a new superweapon, one intended to combat the Angels as a rival to our Evangelions. Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on your view," Shigeru laughed from his own station as he heard this, intent on letting Maya handle the work here. "The Unit, called the Jet Alone, has a nuclear reactor, and the thing has completely lost control and is heading quickly towards Atsugi. It's also currently nearing a nuclear meltdown, which we don't want to happen."
"So that's where Misato was." Shinji noted, staring at the large white mech on the screen in front of him.
"Yes," Maya replied. "Makoto is getting ready to head out, Unit-01 is already hooked up to the transport, we just need you to get changed and get ready to go. Understood, Shinji?"
"Yes."
"What about me? What am I to do?" Rei asked, standing behind Shinji, only bringing the attention to herself when she needed it.
"Rei, you are staying here, on standby, Unit-00 is also hooked up, and ready to head out on a different transport if necessary. However, we will only send you out if Shinji and Unit-01 fail to restrain the Unit."
"Understood."
"Okay, go get changed you two. Shinji, Makoto is waiting in the docking bay, you'll head out as soon as you've arrived. Rei, you will wait here in Central Dogma, and we will get you out if we need to." Both pilots nodded and ran towards the nearest elevators to head down to the Eva Cages level, where the changing room and their plugsuits were.
Once inside, the two pilots quickly stripped off their clothing and grabbed their plugsuits from the lockers. Two sounds of pressurising plugsuits were heard as both pilots pressed the button on their wrists, leaving the two pilots with a second skin. They both exited the room, quickly heading towards their respective places. Shinji to meet Makoto, and Rei back to Central Dogma, with Maya and Shigeru.
Makoto smiled as Shinji entered the docking area, waving him over. "Alright Shinji, Major Katsuragi has called us in to help out with this rampaging robot. Unit-01's already hooked up, and I took the liberty to call over the Angels."
"It was good you did! You might not have been able to take down this thing without us!"
"Sachiel, I don't think we're going to be destroying the robot." Shamshel replied, floating beside his brother.
"What! What's the point of doing this if not to destroy!" Sachiel replied, grumbling to himself. Ramiel simply floated, not bothering to even say anything.
"Alright," Makoto said, getting into the pilot's seat, and setting up for take-off. "Ready to go save the world again, Shinji?" Shinji laughed slightly, settling into his own seat, as the transport took off and headed towards Old Tokyo.
The sound of the transport's engines blaring swept across the pavement of the otherwise silent testing facility. The transport quickly flew into the air, where it headed quickly and efficiently towards the Jet Alone Unit. Inside, Misato sat across from Shinji, who was already ready and in his plugsuit. Shamshel floated next to him, while Sachiel and Ramiel sat on the benches beside him. Misato spoke, alerting Shinji to the current operation.
"Jet Alone is our target. There's an imminent danger of a complete meltdown in about five minutes." Misato warned, sitting with her arms on her knees. "Because of this, we cannot allow the thing to get within distance of a populated area. Understood?"
"Yes, Misato." Shinji replied, a hard and determined look in his eyes. Misato smiled at him, before going back into business mode.
"Hyuga?"
"Yes, Major?" Makoto replied from his pilot's seat, having turned his head slightly to view Misato.
"As soon as you drop Unit-01, break away immediately and get to a safe altitude as quickly as possible. Once there, wait for immediate pickup."
"Roger."
"Shinji?" Misato asked, turning back to the boy in question, allowing herself a smile at the small amount of growth Shinji had gone through since he arrived about a month beforehand.
"Yes."
"Run alongside the target, so that you can place me on its back. Once I'm am safely and successfully on the target, I want you to restrain the thing as best as you can."
"I believe I can help with that, Major." Shamshel stated, turning Misato's attention to him. "As you know, us Angel's can enter the Eva's core, allowing us to give the Eva extra abilities for a short period of time. I am able to give the Eva my tendrils, which it can use the help restrain the Unit." Shamshel commented. Misato nodded in satisfaction, happy that things were coming together.
"Excellent Shamshel. Understand, Shinji?"
"Wait a minute." Shinji said, his face staring back at Misato in a mixture of horror and worry. "You want to climb onto that thing!? So that you can break into it!?"
"That's right." Misato replied, her smile never leaving her face.
"That's crazy, Misato! You could get hurt, or worse killed! I don't want that to happen!"
"Shinji's right, Misato." Makoto noted from the front seat. "This is an incredibly dangerous mission, Major. Something could go horribly wrong."
"I know that it's crazy, Shinji. And I know that I'm putting my life of the line, Hyuga. But this is the only choice we have. The only chance to prevent a catastrophe from breaking out."
"Don't you understand, Misato!" Shinji cried once again. "This is too dangerous! Listen to Hyuga!"
"Don't worry about it, Shinji." Misato replied, tilting her head slightly. If it comes down to it, and you need to use Unit-01 itself to restrain the Jet Alone, then the armour, combined with F-Type Equipment, will be able to resist a possible explosion."
"That's not what I mean, Misato! I'm not concerned about the Eva! I'm concerned about you!"
Misato smiled sadly, letting Shinji know of her own insecurities and thoughts of this mission. Her real thoughts. "I know, Shinji. But I've got to give this my best shot. My conscience won't let me do otherwise." Shinji stared back at her, before his face hardened again, letting the woman know that he was ready, as much as he didn't like it.
"I'm sure you'll be fine, Misato." Sachiel commented, from his perch on the bench. "You'll be able to do it! You've just got to believe in yourself!"
"Yes."
"Thanks, guys."
"Major." Makoto's voice from the cockpit repelled around the small area. "The target has been sighted."
- End –
Shinji and Misato stared out of the small area they were in, were the unmistakable white body of Jet Alone moved swiftly below them. Still on route towards Atsugi.
"Right." Misato called out, moving towards the docking bay for Unit-01 with Shinji. "Let's move out!" Misato moved out of the room, followed quickly by Shinji. Shinji settled himself into the already opened Entry Plug and let himself be sealed inside the Eva. He relaxed as the plug filled with LCL, connecting him to the giant beast.
Outside, in the docking bay, Misato stood ready on the side, helmet securely on her head, prepared to hop onto Unit-01. As discussed, Unit-01's hand opened, palm first. Misato stepped over onto the purple plating, and immediately felt the hand start to grip slightly, enough so that she was safe, and not being suffocated by the Units tight and powerful grip.
- Neon Genesis Evangelion OST I – Track 10 – NERV –
With a lurch, Unit-01 became to move backwards at a brisk but slow pace. The entire setup of the restraints moving alongside it, so Unit-01 could be dropped at the precise time. From inside the Entry Plug, Shinji could hear the voice of Makoto over the com line. "Eva Unit-01 currently in drop position." Misato also heard the voice, as Shinji had opened Unit-01's speakers, allowing her to hear anything she needed to.
"Understood. Prepare for dropping of Evangelion Unit-01!" Misato called, from her place in Unit-01's left hand.
"Roger!" Shinji replied, flipping a switch, causing the bolts above to flick up, allowing Unit-01 to slide of the restraints, as the transport continued to fly forward. Once free, the Evangelion began its free fall towards the ground.
The Eva Unit landed briskly, balancing out, then setting off towards Jet Alone at a run, Misato held tightly in front. Above, the transport jet quickly flew upwards, away from a possible explosion, as Unit-01 quickened its pace.
"We've caught up with it!" Shinji cried out, glancing over at Shamshel. Shamshel nodded and floated into the core of Unit-01.
Shamshel stared around him, taking in the surroundings. It was red. Very red. That was about it, as he settled into being, he thought he saw something, but couldn't exactly place it. Pushing the thought out of his mind, he settled in.
Outside, Unit-01 grew Shamshel's famous tendrils from its stomach, a grand total of six tendrils came into being, a massive help for when holding Jet Alone was required. Misato stared ahead, satisfied as she felt the heat of the radiation inside Jet Alone. "Alright, Shinji we have less than four minutes. Put me on now!"
As Unit-01 one came right behind Jet Alone, he used his arm to grab onto the handle at the back of the backpack. Pulling to slow Jet Alone down in its path. The tendrils whipped out and latched themselves around the body of Jet Alone, pulling the Unit into complete restraint. Despite being completely stopped in terms of movement. The arms of Jet Alone continued to flail back and forth, never slowing. As this happened, Unit-01's feet began to sink into the surface, breaking the ground underneath apart. Misato noticed this, and called out again. "Don't worry about it, Shinji! Just put me on, now!"
Shinji directed Unit-01's hand towards the small hatch on Jet Alone's backpack, and Misato directed herself towards it. She dropped down, getting a hold of the side of Jet Alone. Her grip wasn't good enough, as the constant struggle between the two machines caused Misato to slip and fall.
"No!"
"Misato!"
"Tetris!" Thankfully, Misato used her quick reflexes and grabbed onto the side of the Unit, pulling herself back up the machine. Shinji sighed in relief as Misato continued to climb.
"Be careful." He said gratefully as Misato nodded back, her smile on her face. She gave him a peace sign as she came up on the hatch. She twisted to emergency handle, before pulling it out of its socket. The hatch opened, and a rush of heat greeted Misato. She stared at the red insides, her breath already feeling heavy. "Geez, talk about hot. I've got a bad feeling about this."
- End –
As Misato stared down the hatch, Jet Alone continued to struggle, it's tight hold preventing the beast from moving. "Jesus Christ! Tell that thing to stop moving, Shinji!" Sachiel said, crossing his arms over his chest as Shinji and Unit-01 moved around the beast, the tendrils moving with them, to the front of Jet Alone. Digging Unit-01's feet into the ground, Shinji forcefully pushed hard on Jet Alone's front, preventing the thing from moving very far. Shinji stared hard as the effort started to get to him. With a brief burst, a valve on Jet Alone started steaming air, Shinji quickly moved one of Unit-01's hands over to cover it, but knew it won't be long before he wouldn't be able to handle this.
"Misato! Hurry up! This thing is started to fall apart at the seams!"
Inside, Misato glanced at her map, before glancing up. The large door in front of her read, quite clearly: Caution. Auxiliary Control Room. Emergency Only. Misato smirked as she took in the door. "Looks like I've found it." She moved over to the panel on the right side of the door. She smiled as she punched the panel, causing the door to open with a quick swoosh. "Thing deserved it." She noted as she stepped into the now open room.
The room was small, with many pipes and control circuits around her. In front of her was a panel, with a card reader next to it. Swiping her NERV card, the reader flashed red in the red room, immediately opening the panel for access.
Misato watched as all the information on Jet Alone came rushing out. The circuits doing their job. The red designs and patterns were replaced quickly, with a simple black screen, PASSWORD written in red. She typed in the word Hope, and with a smile pressed the enter key.
– NGE: S2 Works – Disc 3, Track 18 – E-10 (Rhythm Only) –
ERROR
Misato looked shocked as the screen blared at her. "Error? What the hell is going on here?" With a frown, she punched in Hope again.
ERROR
The flashing red shone in Misato's face, she stared ahead of her, realisation dawning. "The program was altered!" With a crash, Misato fell over slightly, as the entire Unit rocked around.
Outside, Unit-01 continued to hold Jet Alone in place, the Tendrils doing their job well. The entire Unit collapsed slightly, at the same time, more jets of steam appeared between the fingers of Unit-01. Shinji quickly moved the other hand of Unit-01 over to cover the steam as much as possible, Shamshel's added tendrils keeping Jet Alone in place. This didn't help much, as the steam moved to another place to rush out, coming out very quickly, in a large quantity, through the backpack of Jet Alone.
DANGER
That's what the computers in the main viewing area displayed as things continued to spiral downhill. The fuel bundle graph showed the Jet Alone's fuel depleting at a rapid rate. The man at this station noticed this, voicing his concerns immediately. "Sir! Jet Alone's power reactor is just 0.2 short of critical!"
"The control rods still won't function!" Another man shouted out as Shiro watched in horror and resignation. They couldn't see Jet Alone at all, they only had to go on what the monitors were telling them.
Ritsuko watched silently from the side, letting no emotion show.
Misato breathed heavily in the bleak redness of the insides. The radiation eating away at both her and her suit. "Time for a long shot." She noted, standing up slowly. "Guess it's time to sink or swim." She walked over to the nearest Control Rod. The back ends of which sat out in the red room. She pushed as hard as she could, aiming to push it into place. With some effort, she managed to get the thing to move slightly, continuing to push with all her effort.
Outside, Unit-01 watched silently as more pockets of steam started to fly out of Jet Alone at an alarming rate. By this point, there was too many steam jets to cover with Unit-01, so Shinji hoped for the best. "Come on, Misato!" He said. "You need to get out of there!"
"Move, goddammit!" Misato cried as she continued to push hard on the control rod. She was making progress, but it was moving very slowly.
Jet Alone continued to stay still, more and more jets steaming out at a fast rate. Shinji cried out, as he began to feel the heat from inside Jet Alone reach him. Shamshel was almost at the end of his own tether, but committed himself to staying inside the core as long as possible, purely so Shinji didn't have to keep the Unit stopped by himself.
Misato continued to push, the pain starting to get to her. Yet, the Control Rod continued to move at a very slow pace.
The monitor continued to show the fuel bundle, itself almost at critical level. "0.1 to critical!" The man sitting there said, as the realisation of what was about to happen dawned. "It's no use! There's nothing we can do now! Jet Alone is going to explode!"
"It's all over." Shiro said, dejected, as he turned away from the monitors.
"Misato!"
"She'll come out of this. She has to." Sachiel said as Jet Alone started to writhe about in their grip.
Inside, Misato continued pushing, her strength almost completely out, just before she collapsed to the ground, the monitor behind her gave a beep, and started to spread out green text. The Control Rods slipped out as they should, and Misato slumped to the ground, completely spent. She stared up in horror as it looked like the giant robot was going to explode, before the room started to cool, and changed to a cool green colour.
– End –
Outside, Jet Alone finally stopped issuing steam, and the Control Rods retracted into a still state. With a lurch, Jet Alone slumped over, finally turned off, Nuclear Meltdown no longer imminent. Shinji stared as Shamshel came flying out of the Eva's core, completely unconscious due to the effort required to stay inside the core. In response, Unit-01 returned to its normal state. Tendrils retracted and disappearing.
With a loud beep, the monitors in the control centre successfully returned to normal. The fuel bundle returning to its normal state. The man cheered as this happened. "She did it! We're all safe!"
"Internal pressure lowering! All readings are nominal!"
A loud cheer came out as everyone heard the news about Jet Alone. Shiro smiled sincerely as this occurred, happy that his creation hadn't gone to complete waste.
Despite this, Ritsuko continued to stand stock still, staring out at the commotion in front of her. Not letting anything away. "Crazy fool. What an idiot." She commented as she stood in the commotion around her.
Unit-01 stood still, still holding onto Jet Alone in case anything happened, as Sachiel held onto Shamshel's unconscious body, Ramiel floated beside Shinji's head, feeling the same things he did. Worrying about Misato. "Misato! Are you there!? Please tell me you're okay!"
Inside, Misato sat in the green room, relaxed against the wall, taking in the effort that she just went through. "Yeah," She replied, not moving much. "I'm okay, but I feel like absolute shit." She chuckled slightly, as Shinji's voice came over Unit-01's speakers.
"You're alive!? Thank goodness, Misato! Who would've looked after me and the Angels if you'd gone!?" Misato smiled, letting Shinji's comment sink in. "I can't believe you did it." He continued. "That was so amazing, Misato! That really was a miracle!"
"Yeah…" Misato replied, looking up, letting one thought through her head. 'But it was completely out of nowhere. This miracle was set up by someone, and I want to know who it is.' Misato stood slowly, letting her muscles get used to the cooler air. She struggled slightly while she headed towards the entrance of the room, her bones aching after the amount of effort it took to push that control rod.
As she exited the room the emergency door locked behind her, she payed it no mind as she made her way back to the entrance on the backpack. She climbed up slowly, moving as to not cause too much damage to herself. The sunlight blinded her as she exited, she shielded her eyes, taking in the increased light. With a final sigh, she took off her helmet, allowing her lungs to be filled with oxygen once again. She breathed it in heavily, letting it come through her system.
Unit-01's giant purple body moved into Misato's view. She smiled as she waved at Shinji, who she knew was inside. She collapsed against the Evangelion, falling into unconsciousness after a stressful few minutes inside of a toasting Jet Alone. The sounds of the transport returning to the scene did nothing to rouse her, and she was quickly taken away with Unit-01 and Shinji, on their way back to NERV.
August 20th, 2015
Ritsuko walked quickly and swiftly towards Commander Ikari's Office. Intent on reporting on the Jet Alone incident to the Commander directly. The guards outside nodded as the doors opened, the darkness foreboding inside. She stepped inside, and waited to be greeted.
"Dr. Akagi?" Gendo Ikari asked, his hands folded in front of his face.
"The Jet Alone Unit experienced a path towards a catastrophic nuclear meltdown. Shiro Tokita, the head behind the project, was not able to predict that something like this would happen. Major Katsuragi came up with a plan to stop the Unit, putting her life in danger in the process. Because of this, Unit-01 was brought in the deal with the large Unit. Recovery of Evangelion Unit-01 is complete. There's no danger of radioactive contamination, Unit-01 has already been checked out in that area. Except for the actions of Major Katsuragi, everything went according to plan." Ritsuko said, as she stood in front of Gendo Ikari in his usually dark office.
"Good work." Gendo simply replied, letting his smirk show underneath his folded hands. Ritsuko nodded swiftly, then left the darkened office.
Misato frowned as she lay against the bedspread in NERV's hospital division. She had been taken here directly after her ambitious plan to stop the Jet Alone project from having a catastrophic meltdown. She sighed as she played with the flimsy material on her hospital gown, letting her annoyance show.
The door opened, and in the doorway stood Shinji, he smiled when he saw her, knowing that she was now safe. "Misato, you're alright!"
"Of course, I am, Shinji!" Misato replied, her playful tone returning. "Nothing can stop me, not even radiation!"
"I know that now Misato." Shinji replied, turning towards the entrance again. "I need to get home, cook dinner and stuff. Will you be out soon?"
"Yes, Shinji. Just need to be given the a-ok!" Shinji smiled, leaving the room quickly. Misato lay back again, letting her thoughts and feelings on the previous day's events wash over her. To her, fantasising about killing Shiro Tokita brought a lot of joy.
August 21st, 2015
– NGE: S2 Works – Disc 2, Track 14 – B-16 (Misato, Rhythm Only) –
The popping of the toaster brought the majority of the apartment's occupants to life. Shinji happily bit down on his piece of toast that he had quickly gotten out. Buttering it quickly before savouring the taste. Beside him Sachiel also ate… something, he wasn't sure what. It looked disgusting though. Shamshel was a bit more normal, deciding to have a bit of toast as well. In Shamshel's words, he was, "Trying out a bit of Human Cuisine." Ramiel sat there staring at everyone, not doing anything. Pen-Pen happily ate some of the complete fish that Shinji had set out for him. Grabbing the entire thing with his beak and happily gulping it down whole. Shinji didn't notice, happily eating himself. At peace with himself, and everyone around him.
The sound of a door being pulled open announced Misato's entrance. Still wearing her night clothes, Misato yawned as she massaged he stomach, groaning in annoyance at the day ahead. "G'morning, Shinji, Angels." She mumbled sleepily as she grabbed a beer, sat down, opened it, and chugged it down.
"YEEEAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHAAAAAWWWWWW!" Shinji stared, unimpressed, as Misato completely woke up, like flipping a switch, Misato's personality completely changed from barely awake Misato to fully awake and ready to go big sister Misato in a second. "Now that is the way to start your morning!" Shinji rolled his eyes as Misato stood up just as quickly as she had sat down. "Now time for that morning shower!" She called out, happily heading towards her own room to find her clothes for the day. "Has anyone seen any of my bras and panties lying around?" She asked innocently as Shinji rolled his eyes in amusement, a small smile on his face.
"I've found them, Misato!" Sachiel called out as he floated out of her room, wearing her bra on his head, with her panties around one arm.
"Thanks, Sachiel!" Misato replied in amusement as the doorbell rang. Shinji walked over to the door, and smiled as Toji, Hikari and Kensuke came into view. "Good morning, Ikari!" Toji and Kensuke called, Toji's bag once again sitting on his head for some reason. Hikari simply waved in greeting, following to two boys into the room.
"Heya, Misato!" Toji and Kensuke stated, at the same time, as per usual.
"Hi, boys!" She called back, flirtatiously, letting her clothe-less arm wave from inside her room. The two boys smiled in joy… and promptly crashed to the floor.
"Idiots." Hikari commented as she turned towards Shinji. "Going to help lug these two to school?"
"They'll be up quickly." Shamshel replied, the Angel's presence still unnerving Hikari slightly, still not fully used to them being around. "In 3… 2… 1…"
With a snap, Toji and Kensuke were back up and acting normally, as if nothing had happened, Shamshel laughed as Ramiel moved to Hikari again. She moved around, shifting to grab onto Hikari's two hair ties, and letting her hair fall out again.
"Yes."
"Ramiel wants you to wear your hair out more often." Sachiel translated, having been confiscated of Misato's undergarments. Toji nodded dumbly, his attention transferring to Hikari once her hair was out. Hikari blushed at his gaze, but kept up her usual authoritive tone.
"Shinji! Just a moment!" Misato called out, walking into the room. Toji's mind was once again on Misato, causing Hikari to frown, again.
"Yes, Misato?"
"I need to tell you something." She said motioning for him to sit down at the table. Shinji silently sat, wondering what Misato would need to talk about. "So, in a few days, we'll be heading out to the Over the Rainbow, an old cruiser, part of the United Nations Pacific Fleet,"
"The Over the Rainbow!" Kensuke called out, smiling from ear to ear. "That ship was built before the Second Impact!"
"Yes, Kensuke!" Misato replied. "Anyway, the entire fleet has been tasked with bringing over something very important."
"Like what, Misato?" Shinji asked, confusion across his features.
"Well, you see, because the Angels are coming here to Tokyo-3, Evangelion Unit-02 and the Second Child are being transported over from Germany!" She finished with a smile on her face.
"Another Pilot!?" Kensuke replied, freaking out about the Evangelion. "Unit-02!"
"Yes, Kensuke." Misato replied, gazing at the boy in uncertainty. "Anyway, as I'm sure you'll want to know. Commander Ikari has already given me permission to go and get the Second Child, and you, as the Third Child, are also coming along!"
"Why?"
"Because it'll be fun!"
"Alright then…"
"Also, you can bring your friends along as well." Misato said, gesturing to Toji, Hikari and Kensuke. Toji looked bored, but was excited to hang out with Shinji and Misato. Hikari was interested in who the Second Child was, and whether they could be friends. Kensuke was just excited about the Pacific Fleet, and Eva Unit-02!
"What about Rei?" Shinji asked, wondering about his fellow pilot.
"Unfortunately, as much as I'm sure Rei would love the trip, she'll be required to stay here in Tokyo-3, in case anything bad happens while we're gone."
"Alright then, Misato."
"Anyway, go have fun at school, Shinji!" Misato called out, as Shinji headed towards the door with his friends, intent on leaving quickly.
"Alright, Misato! See you later!" Shinji called as he left the room with his group of friends, as always, meeting Rei at school.
"Alright, see ya!" Misato replied, wrapped up in two towels, one around her body, and the other around her head, specifically to dry her hair. She watched in amusement as Shinji forcibly removed Toji and Kensuke from the building, while Hikari looked on in annoyance.
Quickly heading down to the street below, the group of four began their usual path to the local high school. Along the way, Toji was once again talking about the wonders of Misato Katsuragi, oblivious to the unamused look Shinji was giving him, and the hurt and annoyed look that Hikari was giving him. "Man, Miss Misato is just so cool!"
"You know, Toji." Shinji said, getting the other boy's attention. "I thought she was cool too, but she's actually a slob." Hikari giggled as Shinji explained this. "At home she's so coarse, uncool, and really sloppy. She never does anything around the apartment either, she just lays around and does nothing."
"So, you're the maid of the house then, Shinji." Hikari asked, earning a laugh from said boy.
"I guess you could say that. In the end, it just makes me embarrassed for her."
"You're a lucky guy, Shinji." Kensuke drawled, completely missing the point of what Shinji was trying to say.
"What do you mean, Kensuke?" Shinji asked, stopping for a moment.
"Geez, you really are a kid." Hikari frowned at Kensuke's meaning, while Toji agreed.
"What does that mean!?" Shinji asked defiantly, taking a stand against this.
"It means that she lets you see a side of her that no one else does." Kensuke stated, Hikari looking up in surprise.
"You can say something meaningful, Aida."
"Of course, I can, Class Rep." Hikari frowned as Kensuke continued. "What that means, Shinji, is that she considers you family." Shinji smiled as he let this sink in.
'Family.' Shinji walked forwards, letting the others lead him into the school grounds. 'I like the sound of that.'
つづく
There we go! Another chapter complete! Nothing much to say here as there isn't much different here at all compared to previous chapters. Next time! Some final preparations as the Second Child and Unit-02 draw near! (So, no, Asuka will not appear in the next chapter.) We will have a pilot show up though! So, look forward to that! Until the 18th, Ciao!
Changes:
More Hikari.
Shamshel's ability is shown while restraining Jet Alone. We'll see Ramiel's soon.
Reviews!:
Guest/guest: It's an idea I wanted to play with yes, but as you'll see, they don't actually remember much of it. As for when they'll find out, it'll be a while, let's just say that.
LostUmbrella: Thank you! Look forward to Gaghiel!
Funny-Little-Cute White Fox: Hopefully I should have weekly updates from now on.
